Spectacular Magazine

JUNE ‘09 LEGISLATIVE REPORTIn May, House lawmakers continued the difficult task of writing NorthCarolina ’s budget for the coming fiscal year. In an attempt to shore upour state’s expected $4 billion shortfall, House members are consideringa number of money-saving measures. It is challenging to decide whereand how to save money, but we must make these hard decisions to meetour Constitutional duty to balance the budget in the face of a 20 percentdrop in revenues.

These budget measures may be painful in the short term, but they arenecessary if we are to protect programs and services that enable us toprovide a quality education at all levels, meet the health needs of ourmost vulnerable citizens, maintain and cultivate jobs, and keep us safe inour homes, neighborhoods and schools. As the economy gets better wemust not forget who sacrificed.

The last week of May, to spur the economy, we approved several bills thatcould help the state attract new investment and new building. I haveincluded some information about those bills below.

Also, since we just celebrated Memorial Day, it is fitting to acknowledgesome measures we have taken this legislative session to improve thelives of veterans and members of the Armed Forces in North Carolina.These measures include everything from making it easier for them torenew their drivers’ licenses and cast timely ballots to protecting ourseverely injured veterans from being denied unemployment insurancebenefits if they lose a job as a result of injuries sustained in war.

ECONOMY - The House approved a bill in May that may help NorthCarolina bring in a new company that would be required to invest $1 bil-lion. The bill (SB 575) changes the way corporate income tax liability iscalculated for multi-state taxpayers by considering only the company’ssales in the state when determining their tax bills. The existing formulaalso accounts for companies’ property holdings and payroll. The changeapplies only to companies that invest $1 billion or more over a nine-yearperiod. No company in the state currently qualifies for the incentive. Theproposal also requires companies to locate in one of the state’s poorestcounties, provide health insurance, meet a wage standard, and foregoother state grants or tax breaks before they can qualify for the incentive.

_Counties and municipalities in North Carolina would be authorized toprovide development incentives in exchange for reductions in energy con-sumption under a bill that passed the House this month (SB 52). Morespecifically, counties and municipalities would be able to grant incentivesto a developer or builder if they agree to construct a new developmentor reconstruct an existing development in a way that significantlyreduces energy consumption.

_The State Treasurer’s office would be given more flexibility to increaseinvestment income and better manage risk under a bill that passed theHouse this week (SB 703). The bill would allow the treasurer to invest up

to 5 percent of the state’s portfolio in commodities such as timber, realestate and treasury inflation protected securities, or TIPS. The bill doesnot allow investments in derivatives or other risky assets.

VETERANS LEGISLATIONHonor Fallen Soldiers - Members of the House honored the life and mem-ory of the fallen soldiers who served our great nation in Operations IraqiFreedom and Enduring Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan with a HouseJoint Resolution (HJR 1652). In the resolution, the General Assemblyexpressed profound gratitude to the North Carolinians who were killed inthe line of duty during these military operations. Each North Carolinianwho was killed in the line of duty while carrying out these operations isnamed in the resolution.

TRANSPORTATION - _The Division of Motor Vehicles would be allowed to waive the commer-cial motor vehicles skills test for qualified military personnel who haveoperated similar vehicles for at least two years prior to applying for acommercial driver’s license under a bill that has passed the Senate (SB423 - HB 271). The legislation would also waive the requirement if theapplicant has completed a similar skills test while in the military if final-ly approved.

_Two bills would make it easier for members of the military reserves torenew their drivers’ licenses after they receive deployment orders. A billthat has passed the Senate (SB 809) would allow members of the ArmedForces to renew their drivers’ licenses upon receipt of deployment ordersand give them a 60-day grace period for an expired license after they arereleased from military duty outside of the United States.

_Legislation meant to ensure that certain special license plates that areavailable to military veterans are issued to the right people has passedthe House (HB 1094). The bill is intended to prevent impostors from pur-chasing military awards license plates.

EMPLOYMENT - _House lawmakers have passed legislation regarding unemploymentinsurance compensation for certain severely disabled veterans who havebeen discharged due to a service-connected disability (HB 1124). If enact-ed, severely injured veterans could receive unemployment benefits ifthey lose their job because of a disability incurred or aggravated duringactive military service or because of the veteran’s absence from work toobtain care and treatment for that disability.

MISCELLANEOUS - _ North Carolina ’s absentee voting laws would be improved under ameasure that has passed the House (HB 614). The bill is specificallyintended to improve the ability of military and overseas voters to casttimely ballots. The bill is now in the Senate Committee on Judiciary I.

NOTES -_Members of the General Assembly honored former InsuranceCommissioner Jim Long this week for his nearly 30 years of service tothe state. Long was Insurance Commissioner from 1985 until his retire-ment last year. His 24 years on the Council of State was the third-longesttenure of any official. Long also served two terms in the House ofRepresentatives. He died in February as the result of a stroke. He was 68.

Larry D. HallPlease remember that you can listen to each day’s session, committee meetings and press con-ferences on the General Assembly’s website at www.ncleg.net. Once on the site, select “audio,”and then make your selection – House Chamber, Senate Chamber, Appropriations CommitteeRoom or Press Conference Room.

FROM THE OFFICES OF

4 SPECTACULAR June/July 2009

TALKBACK II

From The Publisher’s Desk...

June/July 2009 SPECTACULAR 5

WHAT IS JUNETEENTH?That’s the response I get quite frequently when I mention the upcomingJuneteenth Celebration, which by the way is taking place on Saturday,June 20 in Forest Hills Park in Durham.

Juneteenth, often cited as the African American Independence Day, hasbeen the subject of city, state and federal legislation in recent years,establishing it as a special day of recognition, and as one of the fastestgrowing events in the country. The celebration of Juneteenth originatesfrom Galveston, Texas, where on June 19, 1865, the word of theEmancipation Proclamation reached the enslaved, two and one half yearsafter the signing.

Today, Juneteenth is embraced and celebrated by all races and ethnici-ties in honor, and in commemoration of African American culture andachievement. In 2007, North Carolina became the 26th state to recog-nize Juneteenth as a state holiday or a state holiday observance.

President Obama is proclaiming June 19 as the Second Independence Dayin America. The first one, July 4, 1776...that day is not our independ-ence day.

As we work to make Juneteenth a national holiday and for Juneteenthto be taught in schools, I ask that you read the following litany (writ-ten by Dr. Daphne Wiggins-Obie, Associate Pastor, Union Baptist Churchand Dr. Archie Logan, Executive Vice President - Apex School of Theology),past it on to others and request that your church incorporate it intoyour service on the third Sunday in June.

A LITANY FOR JUNETEENTHLLEEAADDEERR::Today, we remember Juneteenth the oldest known celebra-tion commemorating the ending of slavery in the UnitedStates. Juneteenth commemorates the day freedom wasproclaimed to all slaves in the south by Union GeneralGranger, on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, more thantwo and a half years after the signing of the EmancipationProclamation by President Abraham Lincoln. The legacy ofthe past and our hope for the future compels us to remem-ber this day and to invoke the presence of God to equip usto continue the struggle for emancipation that was inaugu-rated on that day. Therefore, let us pray:

LLEEAADDEERR::Almighty God, we thank you for this day when we stop toremember the survivalist impulse, strength and determi-nation of our African ancestors who were brought to thiscountry stacked in the bottom of slave ships across theAtlantic during the Middle Passage.

PPEEOOPPLLEE:: We thank you for our African-American ancestors who pos-

sessed a thirst and strug-gle for liberation thatcould not be quenchedby chains on their bod-ies, attacks against theirspirits or promises unful-filled.

LLEEAADDEERR::We rejoice thatJuneteenth is celebratedannually in over 30 states of the United States; that this daycelebrates African-American freedom while encouragingself-development and respect for all cultures.

PPEEOOPPLLEE:: We pray that Juneteenth becomes a national observancethroughout the United States, a day which emboldens andmaintains our commitment to justice and renews our abilityto turn the tide of bondage into a door of opportunity andunity.

LLEEAADDEERR::We pray you free us from a spirit of isolation, that we mayknow ourselves united to one another and to all peopleunder heaven.

PPEEOOPPLLEE:: We pray for courage and determination for those who areoppressed and struggle for liberation; for those who lookfor our assistance as change agents, for those who need usto provide a hand up not merely a hand out.

LLEEAADDEERR::Grant us strength to move from our seats of apathy, and thesidelines of complacency. Make us people whose past isfuel for their future, whose present is a time of participationnot relaxation, people willing to address the plagues andcreate possibilities in our community.

PPEEOOPPLLEE:: May we be people who are not silent in the face of oppres-sion and inequality, but disturbers of the status quo ratherthan complicit with injustice.

AALLLL::Therefore, in faith we commend ourselves and our work forjustice to Almighty God, we support the NationalJuneteenth Holiday Campaign and encourage our familiesand communities to live the spirit of Juneteenth and Unitybeyond this day. AMEN.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!Phyllis Coley

Phyllis D. Coley, Publisher


SPECTACULARMAGAZINE

www.spectacularmag.com

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEFPHYLLIS COLEY

FEATURES EDITORGRACE GRAHAM

HEALTH EDITORDR. SHARON ELLIOTT-BYNUM

COLUMNISTSSTELLA J. ADAMS

KARL BLAKE & VALERIE WHITTEDMINISTER CURTIS GATEWOOD

LARRY HALL, ESQ.MICHELLE LAWSLAMONT LILLY

IRVING JOYNER, ESQ.DR. ARCHIE D. LOGAN

DEL MATTIOLIREV. JAMES SMITH

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSAPRIL MIAL

KIMBERLE WALKER

PHOTOGRAPHERSCHRIS HINTON LAWRENCE DAVIS III

LAYOUT/DESIGNPHYLLIS COLEY

MARILYN FISHER TAMARA HINTON

DISTRIBUTIONLAWRENCE DAVIS III

LELIA ROYSTER CHARLES STREET

Spectacular Magazine enlightens, empowers and entertainsAfrican Americans in Durham, Wake Orange, Granville, Vanceand Person counties with features, columns, commentariesand calendars. Spectacular Magazine is published monthlyand distributed free in Durham, Wake, Orange, Granville,Vance and Person counties.

Deadline for all submissions is the 22nd of eachmonth.

Contact us at: [email protected]

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Mail subscriptions are available for $25.00 per year.Second class postage is paid in Durham, NC.

In This IssueAnother Perspective 49 Creative, Colorful People 38 Entertainment 48Features

Dr. Bruce Bridges 15Rene Daughtry 21Philip Freelon 11Larry Hall 9Brad Thompson 17Randy Trice 19

From The Publisher’s Desk 5FYI 23 Granville County 39Health 43Legal Eagle Advisor 36 Lifestyles 45Living Your Faith 30 News Briefs 33Partners in Health 44Political & Civic Affairs 36Profile 7Religion 28Rightchus Truth 7Talkback, Too 4This Is Your Life 45What’s Up Doc? 43

Juneteenth Special Section 25

COVER DESIGNTamara Hinton & Marilyn Fisher

All Things Media Inc.


The Rightchus TruthThe Rightchus Truthby Lamont Lilly aka ‘Rightchus’

Recently it seems that every paper I read and newsreel viewed,possesses some new report of black outcries for “justice andequality.” Whether it’s poverty, police brutality or the poor treat-ment of black kids in public schools, we always askin’ and beggin’.In the May 12th issue of The Final Call there was an arti-cle written by a Bro. Askia Muhammad detailing quite ahorrendous case of “Excessive Use of Force.” Thecase involved two Mississippi officers (neither onenamed ‘Mister Tibbs’) and six unarmed black kidsriding the school bus home down in Desoto County,Miss. Not only were the two young girls who werefighting arrested; those filthy pigs made it theirbusiness to intimidate, threaten and arrest four otheryouth by force whom weren’t even involved. Asusual, there was an outcry among neigh-boring parents, churches and communi-ty activists. Since then, the ACLU hasfiled a federal “complaint” againstboth the school officials and theSouthaven Police Department. I’mnot condoning the behavior of thoseyoung people, but when our kids do wrong, they go to jail. Whentheir kids do wrong, “they’re just being kids.”

I don’t understand why we as people of color keep sending ourchildren off to educational institutions that mean them nothing butharm and Mis-Education. I know most of us don’t wanna hear thetruth, but the fact is that the American educational system expectsour children to fail!! By the 4th grade, they pick out a few “GoodNegro” exceptions, while the remaining are left doomed for pover-ty and prison. Yet, we still beggin’ to be part of a system thatdoesn’t want us around! Think about it. Why else would they sus-pend your son two whole weeks for wearing a hat in class? That’scalled [subtle segregation], but Booker T. said “Build your own!”

I say that to say this: Anytime you’re a minority within a landmass in which you don’t control a thing; to the majority you’renothing. And to an oppressive majority that controls and dictatesthe educational system, political system, economic system, andthe judicial/justice system, why you don’t stand a chance! We getone black man in a high office and we lose our minds, (as if we hadthem in the first place). I’m sorry but it’s the truth. In odds asthese, even the “exceptional Negro achievers” are nothing butpawns. To the power structure, we’re all nothing but pawns. Wego to work, drive our nice little cars, we got our nice little homesand jazzy apartments, and watch TV until it’s time for bed. We’renothing but programmed pawns! You’re either working for themor chasing your tail working against them. And if one more eldertells me, “Son, you got to change the system from within,” I’mgonna (respectfully) tell them something. That’s B-S! You don’t

change The System! The System changes you! What AmericanNegro on the inside has REALLY changed the system? Do yourresearch! Thurgood Marshall was the most dangerous Negro inAmerica at one point. The brotha was using their books and win-

ning cases left and right. So theygave him a black robe and made himshut right on up. Real change agentsrefuse to be quiet! They’re eitherkilled, exiled or imprisoned.

**King/Malcolm/BigKennedy/Lil’Kennedy/Evers/Hampton/evenLincoln…you do the math.

Oh, and white folks yall slaves too.We Negroes might be sleepin’ in the cotton crops,

but to the power structure, yall ain’t nothingbut some high-yellow house niggers! Yeah, Isaid it. We all slaves, but the worst type ofslave is the kind that doesn’t know they’re aslave. They eat good—they dress good but

never own themselves. You see, over the last several months I’veseen poverty and struggle first hand and I’m tellin’ you rightnow… it has no color! Anytime injustice screams out loud andisn’t heard, you’re nothing but a slave! Whether you’re a crackslave, a 30 year mortgage slave, a slave to the pigs or the FederalReserve; you still full blood slave. Now don’t get it twisted, thesystem certainly has its preference of oppressees, but the greedwe serve will eat its own kin and not give a damn! The white folksI work with, struggle just like me. Hell, I wish I was gettin’ foodstamps. Dem’ folks got EBT cards, drawin’ unemployment, andgovernmental living assistance. And this ain’t new! They know thesystem better than we do. White folks just keep their business on-da-low. While us Negroes been struggling so long and hard, wedun made heaven from hell! However, fact still remains that it isour nation (those of African descent), who bear the blunt of theload. It is us, the field darkies who have lost the most and gainedthe least.

You see, us humans are nothing more than advanced animals; themost complicated mammal known to our existence. As man or wo-man, our most important and basic goal is simply survival. Classicthinkers such as Herbert Spencer, Charles Darwin, and FrancisGalton all dissect this “goal of survival” quite practically. And for

the brothas and sistas who may be wondering what do those oldwhite farts have to do with us; tap into some of their work andteachings, and you’ll see. Our plight as Black and Brown could verywell be examined and better understood through terms and phras-es such as Natural Selection, Survival of the Fittest, and Social

SLAVE TALK: CAN IGET AN AMEN?

The Rightchus Truth continues on page 38


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N.C. STATE REP. LARRY D. HALLA POSITIVE BROTHER

SERVING AS CHAIRMAN OF 2009 N.C.JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

By Grace Graham Features EditorHow does onedefine aP o s i t i v eBrother? Aglimpse intothe life of LarryD. Hall willgive you ananswer.

DURHAM -The HonorableLarry D. Hallis serving asthe Chairmanof 5th AnnualD u r h a mJ u n e t e e n t hCelebration &Unity March

that will be held June 20 at Forest Hill Park, whichwill include a Unity March and festival.Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated com-memoration of the ending of slavery in the UnitedStates. Hall recognizes the significance of the cele-bration and is willing to take time from his sched-ule to give back to the community, making him atrue Positive Brother.

Hall currently serves in the North CarolinaHouse, 29th District, where he is: Chairman of theHomeland Security and Military/Veteran AffairsCommittee and Vice Chair of the FinancialInstitutions Committee. He is a member of severallegislative committees: Education, EducationSubcommittee on Universities, Finance, Scienceand Technology and Judiciary I. He is also anEconomic Development Board Member, affiliatedwith the Canada Rising State Leaders Programand a 2008 Henry Toll Fellow.

Hall is a native of Durham and attendedHillside High School in the 10th and 11th gradeswhere he was an honor student. In his senior yearhe attended Laurinburg Institute (prep school)graduating as the Salutatorian of his class. Hecontinued his education at North Carolina CentralUniversity and Johnson C. Smith University, grad-uating with honors with a double major in PoliticalScience and Business.

After college, Hall joined - “The Few. TheProud. The Marines”. The catchy slogan clearlydescribes Hall’s tour in the Marines.. He earnedseveral medals, attended the Staff Training Schoolin Norfolk, Virginia and completed the intenseOfficers Training School at Quantico, Virginia,which placed him in a leadership position as aUnited States Marine Corps Infantry Officer.

It was during a NATO operation in Norwaythat Hall was granted the distinct honor of escort-ing the Norwegian King. Then, back at CampLejume, NC, he again had the privilege of escortinganother distinguished visitor. The person was notquite a king, but carried the impressive title of gov-ernor, the then Governor James (Jim) Hunt,Hall said, “ After once serving as Hunt’s escort Ilater had the opportunity to serve with him on acommittee.”

Hall continued to serve in the Marine Reserves,obtaining the rank of Major as a logistics and com-munications officer until 1998; giving him a total of16 years, active and reserves duties combined. Heis currently Commandant of the Durham MarineCorps League Detachment.

The Marine Corps League provides support andassistance to Marines reentering civilian life in thetriangle area. And, Hall has served as an instruc-tor and administrator in the Young MarinesProgram since 2001; a program that targets chil-

Rep. Larry Hall makes remarks on the floor of the NC StateHouse.

dren between the ages of 8-18.After his active duty stint

with the Marines, Hallattended the law school atUNC–Chapel Hill where heearned a Juris Doctor degree.His interest in law wassparked as a boy. His uncle, apracticing attorney was agreat inspiration to the youngHall. “I would listen to casesdiscussed during family visitsand my uncle’s law books real-ly impressed me.” An incidentthat occurred while he was astudent in middle school alsogave him a valid reason tolean toward law. WhileChristmas shopping , he wasunfairly accused of shopliftingwith no chance for an expla-nation, and had to besearched by a store official toprove that he had not takenanything.

Hall began his career as an attorney in 1986with Michaux & Michaux, and opened his own lawpractice in Durham in 1989. When Hall was askedthe question, “What do you contributed to yourmany accumulated successes?” He gave a refreshingresponse, “There would not have been any excuse forme not to succeed in life; I had supportive parents,teachers, and friends offering me support andencouragement.”

It was encouragement from associates andfriends in the early 90s that Hall became affiliatedwith the radio show Talk Back. When the positionof host became vacant ,Hall was not immediatelyinterested; he said, “ I was asked to host the show,because I knew so many people in Durham,” Andmost likely he was encouraged to accept because ofhis ability to captivate an audience. Hall alsowrites a column, Talk Back II for SpectacularMagazine.

An avid sports lover, this positive brother broad-casted football and basketball games for NorthCarolina Central and Shaw Universities from 1996-2002. While in high school he played basketball andfootball and limited himself only to basketball whilein college. He also is a trained scuba diver and a pastrunner.

He has given his time and resources in supportof children and children’s issues. From 1995 to1998 he was an active participant in the DurhamCompanions Youth Mentorship Program as a boardmember and later became chairman of the board.He continued his support and work for youth serv-ing as a business mentor and instructor in theDurham Business & Professional Chain’s Rites of

Passage Youth MentorshipProgram. He recently servedas keynote speaker for aDurham Companions’ eventand was honored with anaward for his service.

An adjunct professor atNCCU School of Law, Hallhas been recognized by theGeorge White Bar Associationas Attorney of the year for2007. He said, “I enjoy teach-ing young people, they are ourleaders of tomorrow andtomorrow is just around thecorner.” He also worked as aconstructional law instructorby providing instructionthrough City of DurhamEquity Assurance Office onbasic construction law biddingprocess, bonding regulations,state and local qualificationprocess and change orders forthe Durham Minority and

Women Business Enterprise Program.Other current and past community activities

include: Durham Branch NAACP ExecutiveCommittee member and Economic CommitteeChairman; Legal Counsel for Triangle Association ofMinority Contractors; Durham Business &Professional Chair Board Chairman (97); ExecutiveSecretary for Durham Committee on Affairs ofBlack People; and Durham Minority WomenBusiness Enterprise Advisory Board; The DurhamLegal Board of Directors and as a volunteer attor-ney. He served on the 2nd Congressional DistrictSmall Business Advisory Committee and currentlyis a member of the Durham Renaissance Group.

Hall lives in Durham with his wife, Mary andthey are the proud parents of two daughters,LaToya and Jessica.

Rep. Larry Hall continues


Two positive brothers together:Rep. Larry Hall & President Obama

Rep. Hall with U.S. Rep. David Price, serving the localcommunity.

PHILIP FREELONLOCAL ARCHITECT’S WINNING STREAK

EXTENDS WITH D.C. PROJECTDURHAM - Local architect Philip Freelon has justscored a plum project in Washington, a city whose

bricks and mortar tell thehistory of a country.Freelon is the leader of ateam of architects that hasbeen chosen to design theSmithsonian’s Museum ofAfrican American Historyand Culture on theNational Mall.

But this man, who hashelped define and redefinemany an urban landscape,traces his inspiration to aquiet moment many years

ago in the woods with his grandfather. Freelon, the leader of a team of architects cho-

sen to design the Smithsonian’s Museum of AfricanAmerican History and Culture on the NationalMall, vividly recalls his trek along the woodedbanks of Wissahickon Creek in northwestPhiladelphia. He was only 6 and in awe of hisgrandfather, Allan Freelon Sr., a pioneer African-American impressionist painter and profoundthinker who taught art in Philadelphia publicschools.

“We sat down on some stones,” recalledFreelon, 57. “He told me, ‘Just close your eyes andlisten.’ You become very aware of what’s aroundyou.” That astute awareness of his surroundingsguides Freelon each time he sits down to a blankblueprint with a sharpened pencil.

The young student had no idea those fivedecades ago that the lesson handed down throughthe generations would guide him as an architect.

That certainly was not his aspiration backthen. Black architects, far from common today,were truly rare in the 1960s, so it was not a profes-sion that his family bandied about as an outlet forhis artistic side.

“I’d never met an architect until I went to col-lege,” Freelon said.

Drawn To Design, Drafting Had Snuffy Morris, a friend of Freelon’s older

brother, not showed up at their house one day witha draftsman’s pencil, the gifted artist might nothave found his way to the high school drafting classthat changed the direction of his life.

“I thought I might be an industrial artist,”Freelon said. “But I found this thing called design

and drafting that was the perfect blend of art andscience. Fortunately for me, architecture turnedout to be something I love.”

The recent commission in Washington contin-ues a rising swing for Freelon, who is consideredone of the most successful mid-career African-American architects in the country.

“I don’t want to be the Spike Lee of architec-ture, I want to be the Quincy Jones of architec-ture,” Freelon told Baltimore Sun architecture crit-ic Edward Gunts in 2005.

In his elegant, art-filled home in one ofDurham’s stately neighborhoods, Freelon, a tall,thin man with graying temples, expanded upon hiscomment.

“Spike Lee, when you think of artists, a lot of itis thematic to our culture — at least his earlyworks were,” Freelon said. “Quincy Jones doesthat, too, but he also does more. He did the score

The Smithsonian Institution chose a team led by theFreelon Group to design the National Museum of AfricanAmerican History and Culture, scheduled to open on theNational Mall in 2015. The museum is expected to cost$500 million and will be built on a site near the WashingtonMonument. They beat out five other teams. Pictured aboveis the winning design concept. Photo: Courtesy of Freelon AdjayeBond/SmithGroup


Freelon continues for ‘In Cold Blood.’”

In a profession where no more than 2 percent ofthe architects are African-American, Freelonadded, “I don’t shy away from working in theAfrican-American experience, but my belief is Ihave something to offer beyond that. ... I look toartists like my grandfather. He painted in theimpressionistic style when others were doing tribalscenes. In our firm, we compete in the main-stream.”

Freelon Group’s Portfolio The Freelon Group, which he started 19 years

ago by himself, now employs 55 people. The company portfolio includes buildings up

and down the EastCoast — from theDurham BullsAthletic Park,Diamondview atthe Durham BullsAthletic Park(above) and SonjaHaynes StoneBlack CulturalCenter in theTriangle (left) tothe Reginald F.

Lewis Museum of Maryland African-AmericanHistory and Culture in Baltimore and the AtlantaCenter for Civil and Human Rights.

“Phil has really built that practice fromscratch,” said Marvin Malecha, president of theAmerican Institute of Architects and dean of theN.C. State University College of design. “He’s hadpartners along the way, but he’s always had agreater vision of what he can be.”

Within the profession, museums are regardedas a special kind of challenge, one that the FreelonGroup has met head-on.

“Museum buildings are not like other build-ings,” said Vernon Courtney, president of theAssociation of African-American Museums. “Mysense is that they’re well up to speed on that wholeslate of specialized knowledge. That has to do with

environmentals, natural light — where you canhave it and where you can’t have it. It has to dowith audience flow and how you move people fromone part of the building to another part of thebuilding if you want them to move at a particularspeed and in a particular way.”

Steeped In Education, Art Freelon grew up in a family that placed strong

value on education and art. He went toPhiladelphia’s Central High School, a celebratedmagnet school that lists such notables as BillCosby and 20th-century architect Louis Khanamong its alumni.

His father marketed medical supplies andequipment. His mother taught elementary school. His grandfather’s emphasis on the arts was contin-ued by his parents. Freelon and his two brothersand a sister all went into professions with an artis-tic bent. One brother is a filmmaker and videogra-pher, the other a culinary artist. His sister is thehead of cultural arts in Baltimore.

After buzzing through the drafting classes inhigh school, Freelon went to Hampton Universityin Virginia and then N.C. State University, wherehe earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture in1975. Two years later he got a master’s in architec-ture from the Massachusetts Institute ofTechnology.

He found his way back to North Carolina,where he met the partner with whom he wouldmake what he says are his greatest creations — histhree children.

In his reserved andmeasured speech,Philip Freelondescribed the first timehe met Nnenna (below),his wife of 30 years.

Chinyere NnennaPierce, a rising seniorat Simmons College inBoston, was visiting afriend in Carrboro asshe looked at a gradu-ate program in publichealth at UNC-ChapelHill.

Freelon was moon-lighting on a job with afriend. They ended upin Carrboro one night,and the young architectwas smitten.

“I said, ‘Gosh, who isthis beautiful woman?’”Freelon recalled as a smile spread across his face.“I found a way to go back the next three days.”

The romance blossomed as the two “correspond-

Nnenna Freelon


Freelon continues ed the old-fashioned way, through the mail.” Theybonded over a shared passion for science fictionand soon became partners in life.

They were married in 1979 and began to builda family that would continue the creative streak.

‘Nnenna’s Husband’ Nnenna Freelon, of course, is now a jazz singer

of international renown and multiple Grammynominations — and the noted architect is describedin some circles as “Nnenna Freelon’s husband.” She was not a famous performer, however, in theearly years of their marriage.

“I never saw her perform on stage until she waspregnant with our third child,” Freelon said. “Ofcourse, I knew she could sing. I heard her sing inchurch and in the shower, but she was at homewith the children for 10 years.”

The Freelons’ home is filled with musicalinstruments — a piano, guitars and the drums heplayed in Site Unseene, a band that Freelon andhis brother started in high school. The walls are filled with paintings and other art-work by the family. His hobbies include furnituredesign and photography.

With the children grown and out of the house,the Freelons like to travel and take in jazz shows.He likes to fish at a local reservoir and points to alarge mounted bass on the wall as one of his prizecatches.

He is designing a new house on a larger plot ofland in Durham with a pond. His vocation is hisavocation.

“It’s my passion,” he said.

Philip G. FreelonBORN: March 26, 1952, Philadelphia

FAMILY: wife, Nnenna, a jazz singer of worldrenown; three children: Deen, 28, doing graduatework at the University of Washington in Seattle;Maya, 26, an artist in Baltimore; and Pierce, 25, ahip-hop artist, N.C. Central University professorand founder of Blackademics, a Web site withinterviews of such notable figures as Angela Davis,Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni and Jesse Jackson.

NOTABLE PROJECTS: International Civil RightsCenter and Museum in Greensboro; Museum of theAfrican Diaspora in San Francisco; AmistadResearch Center at Tulane University in NewOrleans; the Durham Bulls Athletic Park (withHOK Sport) and various academic buildings in theUNC system.

A FAVORITE PROJECT?: That’s like asking a par-ent if he has a favorite child, he says. ‘There are nofavorites because they’re your creations. They’repart of you. Each project has its own story.’

HE WON’T BUILD: Prisons. ‘We don’t do prisonsfor a lot of reasons. Our buildings, at the end of theday, we feel they should contribute in a positivemanner to society.’

By Anne Blythe and Barbara Barrett, Staff Writers(News & Observer). Reprint permission granted bythe News & Observer.



By Grace GrahamFeatures EditorDURHAM -Located onF a y e t t e v i l l eStreet acrossfrom the St.Joseph AMEChurch standsthe oldestA f r i c a nA m e r i c a nbookstore inN o r t hCarolina, andthe first in thecity ofDurham—TheKnow Book

Store. The charming, cozy facility offers a wealth ofAfrican American History. The founder and owner,Dr. Bruce Bridges, one of the most PositiveBrothers around greets customers in a warm, cor-dial fashion; a genuine greeting that make it easyfor one to hang around and to return again andagain.

The Know Book Store (2520 Fayetteville St.) ismore than a place to purchase books, it is a gather-ing place for the Black community, and is knownfor spirited debates between regular visitors. Thedual restaurant/bookstore also provides a pleasantatmosphere for culture events.

The bookstore was birthed out of a summer his-tory course thatBridges taught in theearly 80s, and theradio show that hehosted. At the end ofsummer, the peopledid not want thecourse to end and itwas continued at St.Joseph Church.

Because of its pop-ularity, Bridges askedpeople to call a radiostation to see if thestation would considerbroadcasting a showon location. Theresponses promptedthe radio station tooffer Bridges a live

call-in show known as, The Cultural AwarenessSeminar. As the demand for this type of Black his-tory grew, friends encouraged Bridges to open abookstore. He also hosted the radio show, TalkHarambee. The two radio programs became thefirst in Bridges local listening area to be hosted byan African American.

Dr. Bridges is not only a entrepreneur, he wasthe first professor to teach African AmericanStudies at North Carolina State University in

Raleigh, and wasinstrumental in devel-oping its AfricanAmerican Studies cur-riculum. He alsoserved as a professorat North CarolinaCentral Universityand Saint Augustine’sCollege. He has trav-eled extensively in theUnited States as wellas West Africa andthe Caribbean.

Dr. Bridges haslectured on campusesacross 30 states. Aftera speaking engage-ment at Bates Collegein Lewiston, Maine,

DR. BRUCE BRIDGESIN ‘THE KNOW’ ABOUT AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

Dr. Bruce Bridges, pictured inside of The Know Book Store,is not only an entrepreneur, he is a college professor, lec-turer and author of three books. Photo: www.soulofamerica.com

Dr. Bruce Bridges stands in front of his business, The KnowBook Store, located at 2520 Fayetteville Street. It is more thana place to purchase books, it is a gathering place for the Blackcommunity. Photo: www.soulofamerica.com


James L. Reese, an Assistant Dean, stated,“Bridges challenged the audience with so manyfacts that several of them headed for the libraryshortly after the question and answer period.Besides his thorough wealth of knowledge, hisdelivery and style were both entertaining and per-sonable. It was a very enjoyable evening for all.”Most recently, an NCCU professor brought his stu-dents to the bookstore/restaurant where a buffetdinner was served and Dr. Bridges provided theclass a stimulating lecture (His lectures are donewithout notes).

In addition to teaching history, Bridges hasauthored three books, The Ghetto Mind, The Roots ofGeography and his latest book is titled, Recapturingthe African Mind. An excerpt extracted from his lastbook reads: “We’ve been trained to see everythingfrom the European perspective, whether it is math,drama, law, biology or psychology. In science, ingeography, in the arts, in music, and in poetry we’vebeen taught to see things through the eyes of theEuropean, my book, Recapturing the African Mind,is about our training in Euro-Centrism.” This well-written and well-researched book is an informativepiece of history and can be purchased at the KnowBookstore. The book blends well with Bridges motto,“Know Thy Self”.

Dr. Bridges is a native of Durham and the eld-est of seven siblings. His love for history began as

a teenager. While in his teens he participated inthe civil rights movement working along with AnnAtwater and other great activists. According toBridges, the people interest in Africa started in the1920s and lasted about ten years. However, duringthe 20s the interest was found mostly among theintellectuals, artists, writers, etc. It was duringthe 60s when the movement toward a cultural con-nection with Africa was evident among the peoplein the streets of this country. Young people got ridof their former scorn and contempt for Africa thathad been created in their psyche. The slogan,“Black is Beautiful”, was a constant reminder oftheir heritage; people began to seek their roots.

Bridges received degrees from North CarolinaCentral University and the University ofCincinnati (both through academic scholarships).He received a Ph.D. in African History from theUniversity of West lndies. He has continued thepursuit of knowledge through independent studyand research. His extensive studies and research isthe basis for his recognition as an expert in thefields of history, geo-politics and multi-cultural sys-tems. He has been featured in the Arts andEntertainment Network Documentary, A Dream ofthe South. He has received congratulatory lettersfrom Beverly Purdue, then Lt. Governor of NorthCarolina, and has hosted a numerous of celebritiesin the Know Bookstore.

Dr. Bruce Bridges continues


BRAD THOMPSONTHE MEASUREMENT OF SUCCESS

By April MialContributing Writer

RALEIGH - Sometimes successcan be measured from the start-ing point of alpha and endingwith the point of omega, but whathappens when it cannot be meas-ured in terms of a beginning toan end? Brad Thompson knowsthat answer. His life hasrevolved around this conceptwith no plans of ceasing.

I had the opportunity tospeak with Brad Thompson thesame day I received my writingassignment. Upon my phonecall, he was inviting, direct andaccommodating. He scheduledmy interview the following morn-ing. I got off the phone excited about interviewinga man, who had accomplished many great things inhis career path. But aside from that, I wanted theopportunity to get to know a more personal side ofwho he is and what motivates him to do what hedoes.

I phoned Mr. Thompson around 9:30 and he

was ready to answer my questions. We first discussed the North Carolina Black

Summit (www.ncblacksummit.org), which hedeveloped about five years ago. He states that thepurpose of the Summit was to create a forum

“where (business and communi-ty) advocates could converge toidentify and discuss the chal-lenges facing the African-American community.” This year,the Summit focused on ‘Solutions’to preventive healthcare, mobiliz-ing people to vote, closing the gapin education, increasing Blackeconomics, as well as other chal-lenges. Over 250 representativesfrom 70 communities were pres-ent.

Thompson wants the Summitto not only bring the businessand community advocates togeth-er to solve the challenges that theoverall community faces, but healso wants to challenge eachbusiness and community advo-

cate to do just ‘a little bit more’ than what they arecurrently doing for their community.

In addition, he believes that the Summit is aplatform that will inspire leaders to inspire othersand help others who are at a stumbling block withtheir own progress in the community. He believesthat the measurement of success will take sometime, but little step by little step will allow theSummit to grow and become a viable force for thecommunity. These little steps, as Thompsonstates, “Hold people accountable (for) pulling onthe load.” He further explains that we all need tobe “on the same page, commitment, regardless ofour [individual] missions. We control what we doourselves. We can do better, (especially) our effortto build alliance of advocates.”

Thompson believes that with any entity of ful-filling a purpose or goal, the measurement of itssuccess is based upon a three-step process: .First, you must ask yourself is it something thatyou believe in. .Second, is it something that can add value to thecommunity?.Third, is it something that can be a viable (andsustaining) entity in the community?

If you’ve answered yes to all three questions,then you can understand the reason that the NorthCarolina Black Summit exists. Thompson will bethe first to admit that his community comes first.In 1970, he moved into the Southeast Raleighneighborhood and eventually became the Chair ofthe Southeast Raleigh Assembly, which improved

Brad Thompson addresses audience at the 4th Annual NCBlack Summit that he organized that was held in Raleigh inApril. Thompson believes that the Summit is a platform thatwill inspire leaders to inspire others. Photo: Karl Blake


the lives of the citizens in the Southeast Raleighcommunity. This devotion to service has spannedover his political career, which allowed him to eas-ily create the Summit. Second, the Summit addsvalue to the community because it brings advocatestogether for the purpose of exposing and erasingthe challenges faced by the community. Third, theSummit is a viable entity within the communitybecause it encourages the flexibility and inspira-tion of advocates to interact and work on solutionsto the challenges faced by the community.

Thompson’s career spans over three decadesand he still continues to give back to the communi-ty. Since 1970, when he moved into his home inSoutheast Raleigh, Thompson has been an advo-cate for the community for which he lives.

He has been Mayor Pro Tem of Raleigh, a mem-ber of the NC Black Legislative Caucus, a partici-pant in the Raleigh Wake Citizens Association,Lead Member for the Black Parents Association,Lead Member for the Raleigh Community, LeadMember for the Transit Board, president of theSoutheast Community Development Corporation,Member of the Wake County DemocraticCommunity and the list goes on. Now, Thompsonhas scaled down his time to include his PublicRelations firm and his family and friends.

When Thompson wanted to start his own PublicRelations firm, he did so by asking himself thesame questions (to measure its success) that hebegins any conquest. Is it something he believes in?Will it add value to the community? Will it be aviable (and sustaining) entity in the community? …As a result, in 2004, he opened the doors of BradThompson and Associates [www.bradthompsonan-dassociates.com]. His company specializes in help-ing business owners to plan, define goals, frameissues, identify relevant trends/challenges anddevelop actionable strategies…with measurableresults.

In addition to his business, Thompson hasalways been heavily involved in his church, FirstBaptist in Raleigh. For years, he occupied the posi-tions as president of the choir, church clerk, mem-ber position in the church leadership division andteacher for Sunday school. Above all, his favoriteposition was being president of the layman’sleague, which was a group of men coming togetherand doing service. He currently holds the positionof Emeritus.

Thompson believes that “Everything happenswith a sense of what’s around you. You cannothave a broader vision without understandingwhat’s around you.” Further, he confirms that youmust improve the conditions of your family, friendsand neighbors and how things affect you.

Even as Thompson climbed the political andbusiness ladder, his time was limited with his fam-ily. And yet, they watched as their father grew into

a man who they are proud of and who they emu-late. He is married to Dorothy Shaw-Thompsonand has four children; Brad, Jr., 38, Vikki, 34,Stephen, 28 and Evan, 24.

Brad, Jr. and Stephen are following in his foot-steps of entrepreneurship spirit. They own andmanage “The Basement Studios”, in downtownRaleigh, which is a music and recording studio forartists and recording groups. Vikki is employed ata major cloth/material franchise and Evan, who,Thompson states, got his creativity from his moth-er, is a rapper named YAGG FUFRONT.

In such economic hardships, Thompson encour-ages us to band together and give back to the com-munity. He wants younger people to see that theyare valuable and have a lot of potential in fulfillingtheir ambitions. Just as his children have seenfirst hand of his successes, Thompson hopes thatthe next generation will learn from his example.He also encourages them to spread happiness andpeace with a sense of personal worth and valor.

Overall, he states that by understanding thatwe are “creatures made by God, [our] purposebecomes important.” He also explains that as wecontinue living life, our “purpose will be moreclear.” So, Thompson measures success by the waywe learn from our mistakes and make the commu-nity around us better.

April Mial, writer/producer/director with Lilac Films,Inc. (www.lilacfilms.com), currently lives in Raleigh,North Carolina.

Brad Thompson continues


RANDY TRICEIS MAKING DURHAM A BETTER PLACE

By April MialContributing Writer

DURHAM - It has always been with a sense of pridewhen the folks I know have declared “Yes, I am aDurhamite.” There is often an inquisitive and curi-ous look given whenever it is acknowledged, espe-

cially in mixed company(to a non-resident ofDurham) that you are aDurham citizen. Forsome, living in the BullCity hasn’t always beenlooked upon as a goodthing, but Randy Triceis trying to change thatimage.

As Executive Directorof The Durham Raiders,Trice has been a strong

component in getting youth to view the game offootball as a way to have a better life. Since 2003,The Durham Raiders have enforced the importanceof academics, exercise, better food choices, and anoverall good health for their mind, body and soul.Trice states that he tells his players “[that] withoutdoing well in academics, then there is no footballactivity.” He further stresses to his players that inorder to achieve greatness in their lives, then aca-demics must be a priority. Trice does more thantalk about its importance, by providing tutors ifneeded. Life skills are also incorporated, such ashow a player should act on and off of the playing

field.The Durham Raiders football team is under the

umbrella of The Carolina Football DevelopmentLeague (CFD League), a 501c3 non-profit organiza-tion that was created in 2003. The League wasdeveloped as a way for youth to showcase their tal-ents and look towards a brighter future. Thatbrighter future for them was the opportunity toplay among football teams under the CFD League,which consists of Raleigh, Durham, JohnstonCounty and Wilson, as well as the university teamsUNC Club Team, Clemson Club Team andSouthern Columbia. As a result of this opportuni-ty, Trice states that “he is very proud that tworaiders have walked onto the football teams of EastCarolina University and Johnson C. Smith.”

The Durham Raiders football team consists of adiverse group of males in high school and out ofhigh school. For high school, the age range is from15-18 and out of school, the age range is from 18-23.For high school graduates, they can either be work-ing or in college. If the player is between the agesof 18-23, but does not have a high school diploma,he can still be a part of the team. However, he isencouraged to participate and graduate from theirGED program.

The diversification of the group makes this teamunique. All players come from different walks oflife – some are in gangs, some college bound, somecollege players, some doing well in school, somedoing poorly in school, some coming from lowincome families and some coming from middleincome families, to name a few. But the thing that

The Durham Raiders 2009June/July 2009 SPECTACULAR 19

makes this team unique is the idea of “family”. Forthose who do have, they help the ones who do nothave, with the idea of them passing along theirknowledge and skills back to the community thatdoes not have.

Leavie Davis, a Board member of the DurhamRaiders, states that Trice is the right man for thejob and a great mentor for the youth. “Trice is aregular guy that saw that something needed to bedone and is doing it. Our kids need the DurhamRaiders… [and] The Raiders make Durham better.”

In making Durham better, it is a requirement ofeach player to give back to the community throughservice. Much of their service has consisted withhelping non-profits and businesses, such as TheBridges Point Sickle Cell Health/Wellness Event,The Durham Rescue Mission, The City of DurhamParks/Recreation Events and Another Coley Event,

Randy Trice (top row, right) with members of the Durham Raiders organization at the Awards Banquet. (submitted photo)

which promote positive images and awareness inthe African-American community.

The doors of the football team are not openedonly to the males, but to the females… to be partic-ipants in their cheerleading squad. Currently,there are only about four members, but TheDurham Raiders encourage more to join. Trice evenencourages cheerleaders to become leaders throughthe development of their own cheers. His favoritecheer starts off, “Hey, all you Raider fans…” andthat’s all he knows – he confesses it’s because he’sso focused on the game.

To show their appreciation and dedication to ateam of players, both young males and females, forthe hard work that each has given to their academ-ics and their extra-curricular activities, TheDurham Raiders coordinated an awards banquetthis past March 15. At the banquet, playersreceived trophies, $500 scholarships for collegebound and current college students (provided byMcClintock Professional Insurance Company) and a“Whole Player Award” for the one exceptional play-er who did well in both academics and football.

Overall, Trice says that The Durham Raiders“has made a positive impact on him. It has given[him] the opportunity to reach young people… [and]it has [allowed him] to provide encouragement intheir situation because [he] knows how tough it is.”… and he wants each player to take the skills andknowledge learned from the organization and dotheir part in creating a safer community.

On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, youcan find The Durham Raiders working out at theSherwood Park from 6-8 in the evening. To learnmore about the Durham Raiders and game times,visit www.durhamraiders.com.

Randy Trice continues

Members of Durham Raiders building robots and assign-ing task at Cisco RTP.20 SPECTACULAR June/July 2009

RENE DAUGHTRYINSPIRING OTHERS WITH HIS INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP

Additionally Rene looks at Cisco’s FTS customersbest practices and consults with them to refinetheir process and procedures to improve their sup-port experience. His current role is that of aTechnical Project Manger overseeing testing ofInternet Protocol TV (IPTV) and IP SwitchedDigital Video.

Rene’s contributions to Cisco, however, extendfar beyond his work in technical support. As theleader of Cisco’s Black Employees Network(CBEN), Rene has inspired hundreds of studentsacross North Carolina to pursue higher educationand consider a career in science and technologythrough an aggressive outreach effort that bringsstudents to Cisco’s campus and takes Cisco employ-ees into public schools. He also serves as InterimDirectory of CBEN US.

Under his leadership, CBEN won the WNNLRadio One Cathy Hughes Award for CommunityServices in December 2007 and December 2008.The award recognizes a business or corporationthat has made significant community service con-tributions. Among CBEN’s proudest achievementsis the establishment of Cisco Network Academies

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK - A 13-year veter-an of the compa-ny, ReneDaughtry hasinspired many atCisco with hisinnovative leader-ship on theR e s e a r c hTriangle Parkcampus and inc o m m u n i t i e sacross NorthCarolina. ReneDaughtry hasstarted varioussupports teams inCisco within theWorld WideT e c h n i c a lSupport organiza-

tion as well as in Advance Services (High TouchTechnical Support). His role in Cisco AdvancedServices is to be innovative and creative in the waywe support our customers and to find better waysto enhance the service offering.

He has concluded working with Cisco’s FocusTechnical Services (FTS), which is a high-touchtechnical support organization that expedites issueresolution and helps improve operational efficiencywith personalized priority network support.

Under Rene Daughtry’s (far right) leadership, CiscoBlack Employees Network won the WNNL Radio OneCathy Hughes Award for Community Services inDecember 2007 and December 2008. The award rec-ognizes a business or corporation that has made sig-nificant community service contributions. Pictured (l-r)Joel Hopkins (Dominion Healthcare), Callie Douglas,Tamela & David Mann & Daughtry.

Rene Daughtry

Rene Daughtry (left), dedicated to youth, is picturedwith members of the Carolina Football DevelopmentalLeague (CFDL) during the 2nd Annual Cisco BlackEmployee Network - CFDL Technical Career Day atCisco’s headquarters in Research Triangle Park.Daughtry has documented his passion in the whitepaper “Cisco n Da’ Hood”. He writes...”It takes a vil-lage to raise children....The village is a global villageconsisting of family, churches, businesses, schoolsand industry. The Cisco Black Employee Network(CBEN) has taken steps to help to “Shrink the DigitalDivide”. The youth had the unique opportunity toexperience and learn about robotic technology.


at Halifax Community College, Elizabeth CityState University, North Carolina CentralUniversity and North Carolina A&T StateUniversity. The Networking Academies offer stu-dents an educational foundation in informationtechnology, which can be usedto enter the field immediatelyor as a platform for higher edu-cation in science, technology,engineering and mathematics.

On July 29th, 2008,Daughtry and CBEN RTP heldthe 2nd Annual Cisco BlackEmployee Network - CFDLTechnical Career Day at Cisco’sheadquarters in ResearchTriangle Park. Members of theCarolina FootballDevelopmental League (CFDL)were given an overview of Ciscoand a discussion of the manyopportunites that exist withinthe high tech market.

Daughtry expressed Cisco’scommitment to our Youth,explaining that they will be thefuture engineers, analysts, anddevelopers that Cisco willemploy to maintain our numberone position within the industry.

A leading Project Managerin Advanced Services,Daughtry has documented hispassion in the white paper“Cisco n Da’ Hood”. Hewrites...”It takes a village toraise children....The village is aglobal village consisting of fam-ily, churches, businesses,schools and industry. The CiscoBlack Employee Network(CBEN) has taken steps to helpto “Shrink the Digital Divide”.

This was truly an eye open-ing experience for many of theStudents attending. For many,it was the first time they evenconsidered a career in the hightech/IT industry.

Rene Daughtry was the keynote speaker for the ClarenceLightner Foundation Banqueton November 20, 2008 andspoke to 400 elected officials,community, corporate and edu-cational leaders for the triadArea.

As a result of his continuedleadership, Rene Daughtry wasnominated and won the distinc-

tion as one of the 2008 Movers and Shakers in theBusiness Leader Magazine.

Rene Daughtry now is part of North CarolinaCentral University’s family as the Chairman of theComputer Information Systems Advisory Council.


FOR YOUR INFORMATIONHAVE FUN IN THE SUN WITH

DURHAM PARKS AND RECREATION Outdoor Pools Open in June

DURHAM – As the temperature rises and thesummer approaches, Durham Parks andRecreation will provide a place for residents tocool off. The spray grounds (except Hillside) arenow open. Please see the spray ground sitesbelow:

Spray GroundsEdison Johnson (500 W. Murray Avenue)East End Park and E.D. Mickle CommunityCenter (1200 N. Alston Avenue) Forest Hills (1639 University Drive)Spray grounds close after dark.

The outdoor pools will open for the season onSaturday, June 13. Please see the list of out-door pools below:

Outdoor PoolsHillside Pool and Spray Ground: 1300 S. Roxboro Street (919) 560-4783Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday (1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.)Saturday (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)Sunday (1 p.m. – 5 p.m.)Extended Hours of Operation (Free Swim): Wednesdays (3 p.m. – 7 p.m.)

Long Meadow Pool:917 Liberty Street (919) 560-4202Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday (1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.)Saturday (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)Sunday (1 p.m. – 5 p.m.)Extended Hours of Operation (FreeSwim): Mondays (3 p.m. – 7 p.m.)

The fees for the outdoor pools are as fol-lows:Ages 4-17: $2 (city residents) and $4 (non-cityresidents)18 and older: $2.50 (city residents) and $4.50(non-city residents)

Please note: The Forest Hills Pool will beclosed due to repairs.

FAST FACTSSpray grounds were closed last summer due towater restrictions. All four spray grounds will beoperational in compliance with the city ordi-nance. Services are offered at 4 of our 5 poolsthis summer without restrictions. Schedules aresubject to change.

For more information, pick up a Play More at theDPR main office (400 Cleveland Street) call (919)560-4355 or visit www.durhamnc.gov/depart-ments/parks/.

SUMMER JAZZ JAMDURHAM - DurhamCounty Library pres-ents SUMMER JAZZJAM, Sunday, June28, 2009, 2-6 pm, atthe East RegionalLibrary, 211 LickCreek Lane, Durham,North Carolina. Theevent, “ExpressYourself at TheLibrary,” will cele-brate summer read-ing and will includea jazz jam sessionled by guitaristScott Sawyer, vocal-ist Bobby Hinton,drummer PeterJoyner, bassistFreeman Ledbetter,keyboardist BobBaldwin and reed-man Stanley Baird.Young musicians,Tyler Montgomeryand Alan Thompsonare also scheduledto perform.Musicians are invit-ed to come and par-ticipate in the jazzjam.

It will also include alecture, power pointpresentation calledThe Carolina JazzConnection withLarry Reni Thomas, a

writer/radio announc-er based in ChapelHill, North Carolina. Ithighlights the factthat there are over 75native North Carolinajazz personalities andelaborates on their

impact on the development of jazz in Americaand the world.

SUMMER JAZZ JAM is free and open to the pub-lic. Light refreshments will be provided byMeineke Car Care Center. The host will be Ron“Big E” Eldridge of WNAA-FM, Greensboro, NorthCarolina. For more information call (919) 560-0213 or visit www.durhamcountylibrary.org.

DURHAM TECH TO HOST CAREERAND TECHNICAL PROGRAMS FAIR

DURHAM - Whether you’ve lost your job or areconsidering a brand new field, learn more aboutin-demand careers by attending DurhamTechnical Community College’s Career andTechnical Programs Fair. The event takes placeon Tuesday, July 14, from noon to 1:30 p.m., andfrom 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Phail Wynn Jr. StudentServices Center Multi-Purpose Room.

College representatives will be available to dis-cuss programs of study within the Career andTechnical department. These include Accounting,Architectural, Automotive Systems, Basic LawEnforcement Training, Business Administration,Computer Programming and Applications,Criminal Justice, Early Childhood,Electrical/Electronics, Electronic Engineering,Emergency Preparedness, Environment, Health,and Safety; Fire Protection, Health Information,Industrial Systems, Machining, Networking,Office Systems, Paralegal, School-Age Education,and Web Technologies.

The Wynn Student Services Center is on the MainCampus, located off the Briggs Avenue exit ofthe Durham Freeway. Parking is available in theparking lot in front of the White Building. Formore information, call 919-536-7235, ext. 8156or email [email protected].

Scott Sawyer

Freeman Ledbetter

Bob Baldwin

Stanley Baird

Larry Reni Thomas

SUBMIT EVENTS TO:[email protected] the 15th of the month prior to the

month of the event



Saturday June 20, 2009 Forest Hills Park - Durham, NC

SPONSORS

The Carolina TimesJune/July 2009 SPECTACULAR 25

RELIGION

ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE"STAND UP OR SIT DOWN"

byRev. James W. Smith

Have you ever thought about howtradition and customs have evolved

over the years in our churches? It hasnot been too many years ago when no

one would consider standing when scripture isread. As a matter of fact, one would be looked upon strange-ly. Now a day, when scripture is read, those who sit seem tobe looked upon strangely. Oh, I am not for or against eitherone. Personally, I believe in the freedom to worship as onepleases.

If you are led to stand, then stand. If you are led to sit, thensit. I had a member who suggested to me that our congrega-tion consider standing when scripture is read. I told themember that I had no problem with it and the followingSunday, I stated that members should feel free to worship ashe/she desires. If you wish to stand or sit when scripture isread, it is fine with me. I read the scripture and no one stood,including the person who made the suggestion.

Well, I am not raising this issue to be critical of standing orsitting when scripture is read but to highlight something thatI think is important. Think about this. A minister comes toyour church and he is asked to read the scripture. He standsto read the scripture and says to your congregation, "Willyou stand for the reading of God's word." "Will you stand inreverence to God's word." Well, your congregation is not use

to standing for scripture so his/her members stand and yourmembers stay seated.

Or on the other hand, you attend another minister's churchand you are asked to read scripture and because your mem-bers are not accustomed to standing for the reading of scrip-ture, you announce, "Will you remain seated for the hearingof God's word." In both of these instances, some membersare standing and some are sitting. Now, it may not be any-thing wrong with that but it just doesn't look good. I haveheard both, those who stand and those who sit, quote scrip-tures in support of their position.

Nehemiah 8:5 states, "An Ezra opened the book in the sightof all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and whenhe opened it, all the people stood up:" Matthew 26:55 states,"In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye comeout as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me?I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid nohold on me."

In conclusion, to me it is not about standing or sitting for thereading of scripture. I did an exhaustive scripture search andsaw the folk both standing and sitting. However, would not itbe better if we ascertained from the Pastor what the customof his church is before imposing our will on his congregation.

Dr. James W. Smith,Church Consultant, Inspirational/Motivational SpeakerAuthor, “Deal By MeEmail: [email protected]

(CNN) - When Alysa Stanton offi-cially becomes a rabbi in August,she’ll be walking into history.

Alysa Stanton, 45, she willbecome the first African-American woman rabbi to lead amajority white congregation,according to the Hebrew UnionCollege-Jewish Institute ofReligion (HUC-JIR). She is alsothe first African American

woman to ever to be ordained as a rabbi. Stanton was ordained June 6th in Cincinnati,

Ohio, where she received her master’s degree from theHUC-JIR, which is the rabbinical school of the Reform

movement. Then in August, she will begin her new jobat Congregation Bayt Shalom in Greenville, NorthCarolina — long a Conservative synagogue and nowaffiliated with both the Reform and Conservativemovements.

She describes her new position with great enthusi-asm, saying the congregation — while small — has alot of children, a sign of a bright future. And she saysthe congregation is vibrant and the region, where EastCarolina University and a major medical center arelocated, is dynamic as well.

“My goals as a rabbi are to break down barriers,build bridges and provide hope,” Stanton told CNN. “Ilook forward to being the spiritual leader of an inclu-sive sacred community that welcomes and engages all.”

FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN FEMALE RABBI ORDAINED

Rabbi Alysa Stanton


UNITED CHRISTIAN CAMPUS MINISTRY HONORS SUPPORTING

PASTORS WITH BRUNCH PROGRAM

Johnson, Kyles Temple AME Zion Church; Rev.Clarence Laney, Jr., Monument of Faith Church;Rev. J. C. Cheek, Mt. Calvary United Church ofChrist; Rev. Herbert Davis, Nehemiah ChristianCenter; Rev. Wesley Elam, Northeast BaptistChurch; Rev. W. E. Daye, Peace MissionaryBaptist Church; Rev. Dr. Stuart Hoke, St. Titus’Episcopal Church, Rev. Melvin Lindsay, Jr., TheWell Fellowship; and Rev. Michael D. Page,Antioch Baptist Church.

Also honored, but unable to attend were: Rev.Rick Trexler, Baptist State Convention; Rev.Denise Long, Olin T. Binkley Baptist Church;Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, Rev.Rachel Green, President; Methodist StateCommission on Campus Ministry; Rev. JeromeWashington, Mt. Vernon Baptist Church;Newman Catholic Campus Ministry (formerlyHoly Cross Catholic Church); Rev. GingerBradsher-Cunningham, Pilgrim United Church ofChrist; Presbytery of New Hope; Rev. PhilipCousin, Jr., St. Joseph’s AME Church; Rev. DukeLackey, Trinity United Methodist Church; Rev.Mel Williams, Watts Street Baptist Church.

Members of the Pastoral Committee were:Louise Weeks, chair; Dr. Howard M. Fitts, MaryE. Hawkins, Juanita B. Massenburg, Gertie B.Tatum, Robert White and Rev. Michael D. Page.

DURHAM - The United ChristianCampus Ministry (UCCM) servingNorth Carolina Central Universityhosted a Pastoral AppreciationBrunch on April 18th at the RadissonHotel. The brunch recognized faithleaders and their respective congrega-tions as well as religious organiza-tions for the countless hours of sup-port, prayers and financial contribu-tions given to the administrative andoperational support of UCCM.

Through the generosity of the sup-porters, the UCCM has been able toprovide scholarships for students toattend various conventions andretreats, participate on mission trips,sponsor religious programs, services,and activities, and participate in out-reach services in the Durham commu-nity.

Established in 1962, UCCM is a501c(3) non-profit corporation organ-ized for the purpose of establishingand maintaining a united Christian ministry tothe academic community at North CarolinaCentral University (NCCU). Its mission is to pro-vide religious guidance for the faculty and stu-dents at the university. For the past 10 years,Rev. Michael D. Page has served as ExecutiveDirector of UCCM.

The Pastoral Appreciation Brunch began withJason Rutherford and Tim Faison, students atNCCU, giving the invocation and a tribute to thehonorees respectively. Music was provided byPhyllis Gillespie, Minister of Music at BeaconLight Missionary Baptist Church.

UCCM Board members participated on theprogram. Rev. Joseph Clontz gave the occasion.Rev. Herbert Davis, board chair, gave remarks.Florine Roberson blessed the food. The benedic-tion was given by Rev. Clarence Laney, Jr. LouiseWeeks presided. Rev. Michael Page thanked allthe honorees for their support of the ministry andpresented a trophy to each person.

Honored during the program were: Rev.Clarence Burke, Beacon Light Missionary BaptistChurch; Rev. Percy Chase, Community BaptistChurch; Rev. Jimmie Hawkins, CovenantPresbyterian Church; Rev. Frederick Davis, FirstCalvary Baptist Church; Rev. Jane W Mitchell,Full Gospel of Christ Ministries; Rev. Lorinzer

United Christian Campus Ministry at NCCU honored area pastors (picturedabove) with a Pastoral Appreciation Brunch. Submitted Photo



Greetings in the name ofJesus Christ! June is themonth that many African-American Churches honormen and fathers for their

accomplishments, successes and contributions tothe Faith-Community. I join them in praising themen and fathers of the church for their service,sacrifices, evangelism and Christian witness.However, a closer look at the church and Faith-Community indicate that there is an “elephant inthe church.”

The saying: “There is an elephant in the room,”is an idiom that means an oobbvviioouuss ttrruutthh;; aa ddiiffffiiccuullttiissssuuee;; is being ignored, not talked about oraddressed. The HIV/AIDS pandemic is THEELEPHANT IN THE CHURCH. ManyChristians are aware of the pandemic our families,friends and people we know are infected. Churchmembers are concerned; yet no one talks aboutthe elephant. The pastors do not preach aboutthe elephant. Christian Educators do not teachabout the elephant but everyone is thinking aboutthe elephant.

I advocate that proactive leadership concerningthe HIV/AIDS pandemic must come from theAfrican-American Church? Historically, theFaith-Community, or its remnant has been thesource of leadership for the race. From the ante-bellum era; through Reconstruction, “Jim Crow”lynching’s, Separate but Equal, and the CivilRights Movement church leaders male and femalehave championed the causes of liberation, justice,deliverance, equality and freedom. TheHIV/AIDS pandemic is another demon thatmust be “bound” by the power of God in JesusChrist and the “CHURCH.”

Many advocates of gay rights believe that theAfrican-American church has not done enough tofight the pandemic. They often point to thesilence of African American ministers and con-

Rev. Dr. Archie D. Logan, Jr.

gregations. For those who have acquired the viruswaiting on the Faith-Community to act is likewaiting on death. As long as the “the elephant inthe church” is allowed to occupy space in thebuilding - the church is apart of the problem. Thetragedy of this problem goes far beyond religiousSILENCE. The stigma of the disease; the stereo-types associated with it and the theology of sin allcombine to render the majority of our religiousinstitutions POWERLESS. The place of power;the home of the Holy Spirit, the center of Hope,the Balm in Gilead and the haven of healing:SILENT AND POWERLESS? Jesus Christ camethat we might have life (John 10:10)!

The “CHURCH” must continue to be the oneplace, the one institution, the one refuge whereregardless of our past sins, negative baggage, ourunholy “stuff ”, our modern-day leprosy, werethere is a welcome voice; a word of hope; and evi-dence that God is ABLE, even, to receiveHIV/AIDS pandemic survivors (Luke 6:19-49;John 3:16). As long as we have life, we have hopeand those who die in Christ have an eternal hopeof everlasting healing.

The African-American Faith-Community mustremove the HIV/AIDS elephant from thechurch. Our leadership is needed and critical toend this pandemic. With determined, focused andanointed leadership this season of sickness andsorrow will end. In the words of Thomas Moore,(1779-1852), “COME, YE DISCONSOLATE”,1816:

“Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.”“Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot cure.”

“Earth has no sorrow that God cannot heal.”

Rev. Dr. Archie D. Logan, Jr.Executive Vice PresidentApex School of Theology2945 South Miami Boulevard, Suite 114Durham, NC 27703

THE ELEPHANT IN THE AFRICANAMERICAN CHURCH

LIVING YOUR FAITH: PRACTICAL PIETYBy Rev. Dr. Archie D. Logan


Graduation Day at Union Baptist Church in Durham - Union Baptist Church honored Class of 2009 graduates ranging fromthose from kindergarten to those earning post graduate degrees. Photo: Ron Tabron


NEWSBRIEFS

Speed was born and reared inOxford, N.C. and attended thepublic schools there. He receivedhis undergraduate degree at NorthCarolina Central University, andin 1979 he received the MBAdegree from Atlanta University.He joined the accounting firm ofDeloitte & Touche, in 1979, andone of his clients was NorthCarolina Mutual.

In 1991, Speed joined Hardee’sFood Systems as Vice Presidentand Controller. In 1993, Speedcompleted the IMASCO Limited(Hardee’s parent company) SeniorManagement DevelopmentProgram at McGill University,Montreal, Quebec, Canada andwas promoted to Senior VicePresident in 1995. In 1997 whenHardee’s was purchased by CKERestaurants, he was named SeniorVice President, Chief FinancialOfficer and Treasurer and becamea member of the five-person seniorexecutive management team.

He joined NC Mutual as aSenior Vice President and ChiefFinancial Officer in 2002, whilethe company’s strategic plan wasbeing developed. He helped guidethat process, and in April 2003,was named acting President andChief Executive Officer.

In facing the challenges of cur-rent times, Speed said, “It is myhope that corporate and communi-ty leaders will continue to give sac-rificially toward the organizationsthat make a world of difference inthe Triangle.”

Triangle United Way BoardApproves Name Change

Triangle United Way’s board ofdirectors unanimously approvedchanging the organization’s nameto United Way of the GreaterTriangle, effective immediately.The name change better reflectsand represents the far reachingefforts of the organization and allthose who give, advocate and vol-unteer.

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK– James H.Speed Jr.,presidentand chiefexecut iveofficer ofN o r t hC a r o l i n aM u t u a lL i f eInsuranceCompany,w a sappointed

chairman of Triangle UnitedWay’s Board of Director’s recently.He succeeds Bob Greczyn, presi-dent and chief executive officer ofBlue Cross and Blue Shield ofNorth Carolina, who was chair in2008-2009.

“I am very excited to take onthe challenge of leading the boardof the Triangle United Way. Thisorganization has a significant roleand rich history shared by NorthCarolina Mutual Life InsuranceCompany – to serve the under-served. It is my sincere honor totake on the role of encouragingothers to answer that call,” saidSpeed.

In announcing Speed’s chair-manship, Triangle United Way’spresident and CEO CraigChancellor said, “James is one ofthe most respected businessmen inthe RTP area. He brings a wealthof knowledge to the board as wellas years of experience in publicservice.”

Speed assumed the position ofPresident and Chief ExecutiveOfficer of North Carolina MutualLife Insurance Company inJanuary 2004. Headquarters inDurham, NC North Mutual is theoldest and largest insurance com-pany in America with roots in theAfrican-American community. ACertified Public Accountant, Speedformerly served as the company’sSenior Vice President, ChiefFinancial Officer and Treasurer.

JAMES SPEED NAMED TRIANGLEUNITED WAY BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ CHAIRMAN

James H. Speed Jr.

Briefly...EUNICE O’NEAL SANDERS TO LEADEXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

DURHAM – LongtimeDurham educator EuniceO’Neal Sanders, ExecutiveDirector of StudentServices, has been pro-moted to AssistantSuperintendent ofExceptional Children’sPrograms. The positionshe held will not be filled.

Sanders has been Executive Director of StudentServices for three years. Before that she wasprincipal of Hillside High School for four years.Prior to Hillside, she was principal of Rogers-Herr Middle School for two years.

Sanders was formerly principal at C.C.Spaulding Elementary School, where she hadserved since 1995. Before that she was anassistant principal at Neal Middle School and ateacher at several schools throughout the dis-trict. Sanders was selected by her peers as the2002 Wachovia Principal of the Year for DurhamPublic Schools.

Sanders holds two master’s degrees – one inspecial education and the other in administra-tion - along with a bachelor’s degree in sociolo-gy and psychology, from North Carolina CentralUniversity. She is currently pursuing a doctoratein educational leadership from NCCU.

KECIA L. ROGERS TO LEAD W.G. PEARSON ELEMENTARY

DURHAM - Kecia L. Rogers,Assistant Principal ofCarrington Middle School,has been named thePrincipal of W.G. PearsonElementary MagnetSchool. She replacesSandy Chambers, who hasaccepted a position in theWake County Public

School System.

Rogers has been assistant principal atCarrington for two years. She performed herprincipal internship at Pearsontown ElementarySchool. She was a teacher at SouthwestElementary School for 11 years.

Rogers holds two master’s degrees – one inelementary education and one in school admin-istration – from North Carolina Central

Sanders

Rogers

Briefly continues on page 34


Congratulations to the 2009 Miss Jabberwock and Little Miss Jabberwock Scholarship Program Participants held May 30,2009 at A.L. Stanback Middle School sponsored by the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Delta Foundation and Chapel Hill - CarrboroArea Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Jabberwock Program co-chair persons Jane Garrett and V. DiannePledger, Chapter President LaQuinta Parker Perry and Delta Foundation President, Sybil Henderson announce winnersand their court. From left to right: (Back Row) Nickolas French, Jr. Escort, Miss Marlinda C. Dowdy (Moncure, NC),Raheem R. Royal, Jr. Escort, First Runner-Up, Miss Maya P. Lewis (Durham, NC), Miss Jabberwock 2009, Erin E. Price(Durham, NC), David M. Clarke, Jr. Escort, Miss Ashanti A. Foy (Chapel Hill, NC), Ahmad D. Smith, Jr. Escort, Miss JessicaP. Watson (Chapel Hill, NC), William Jennette, Jr., Jr. Escort. (Front Row): Miss Halle B. Upchurch (Moncure, NC), LittleMiss Jabberwock 2009 Miss Idara Frances Page Carmichael (Durham , NC)

Amber was elected president of the student repre-sentatives at the event.

Joyner is a rising senior business administrationmajor with a minor in Real Estate. Joyner is work-ing for the NC General Assembly this summer.Lockett is a business administration major with aconcentration in real estate and started workingfor the NC Department of Transportation in June.

BEEP stages an annual four-day conference toreview and evaluate the past year’s programs andactivities, exchange ideas, plan for the new aca-demic term and discuss current issues and trendsin professional development. This year’s confer-ence was held on June 1-5 in Atlanta, Georgia.

NCCU NAMES VICE CHANCELLOR FORINSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENTDURHAM - LaTanya D. Afolayan has been appoint-ed vice chancellor for Institutional Advancementat North Carolina Central University effective June

University, where she also received her bachelor’sin elementary education.

STUDENTS REPRESENTING SAINTAUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE AT BLACKEXECUTIVES’ CONFERENCERALEIGH - Saint Augustine’s College StudentGovernment Association President Amber Thomashas been chosen for the second consecutive yearto represent Saint Augustine’s College at theNational Urban League’s annual Black ExecutiveExchange Program (BEEP) conference this summer.She will be joined by her peers Marquice Joynerand Jacqui Lockett, business majors who arepaving their way to success after graduation.

Thomas presented at the conference, promotingthe benefits of getting involved, taking leader-ship roles, and the effectiveness of the BEEP pro-gram. Involved with BEEP since 2007, last year,

1. Most recently, Afolayanserved as vice chancellor fordevelopment at ElizabethCity State University.

At Elizabeth City, she alsoserved as director major andplanned gifts and associate

vice chancellor for develop-ment. Afolayan began her career in developmentat Emory University where she served as theassistant director of corporate relations.

Afolayan earned the bachelor of science degreeat Indiana State University and a master of artsfrom the University of Missouri. She is currentlypursuing the Ed. D. in higher education at EastCarolina University.

SUMBIT ANNOUNCEMENTS BY 15TH OF MONTH:[email protected]

Briefly continues

Afolayan


LeVelle Moton announces his first-ever signees

DURHAM - North Carolina CentralUniversity Head Men’s BasketballCoach LeVelle Moton has announced

the sign-ings of twoguards tohis first-e v e rrecruitingclass sincebeing hiredon March2 5 t h .L o c a lp r o d u c t sC . J .Wilkerson

(Oxford, N.C.) and Landon Clement(Raleigh, N.C./UNCGreensboro transfer) havesigned to attend NCCUand don the maroon andgray uniforms of theEagles.

C.J. Wilkerson, a 6-3,205-pound guard, playedat J.F. Webb High Schoolin Oxford, N.C., where hewas named All-Conference in the Mid-State 3-A three times,along with Player of theYear honors his seniorseason. He was alsonamed the “DistrictPlayer of the Year” by theHenderson DailyDispatch. Wilkerson ledthe Warriors to the play-offs three years in a rowand averaged 18.7 pointsper contest his senioryear, including 26.7points per outing in theplayoffs.

He spent the last twoyears at both ClintonJunior College in RockHill, S.C. andSoutheastern IowaCommunity College inWest Burlington, Iowa.In his first year at SICC,he started 29 of 31 games

as a freshman for the Blackhawks.After moving closer to home toClinton Junior College, he got the nodin all 33 games for the Golden Bearsand earned First Team All-Region 10honors after pouring in 14.0 points, 4.0rebounds and 2.0 assists per outing.

“C.J. is one of the most importantsignees at NCCU,” said Moton. “He isvery versatile, can play and defend allthree guard positions on the floor, issuper athletic and will make an imme-diate impact on the Division I level. Hewas very impressive during theGreater Pro Am Summer League lastyear, holding his own against NBA andACC stars. C.J. is a great kid from astrong family background and wecouldn’t be happier to have him here atNCCU.”

The second student-athlete played

under Moton during his AAU coachingdays and also at Sanderson HighSchool for three years, earning all-con-ference recognition his last two sea-sons. Landon Clement, a 6-2, 180-pound shoot-ing guard, leftS a n d e r s o nsecond in all-time scoringalong withfinishing hishigh schoolcareer No. 1in careerthree-pointersmade and free throw percentage.

Clement took his game to UNCGreensboro, playing two seasons. Hecontributed almost immediately, play-ing in 27 of the 31 contests his fresh-

man season. His sopho-more campaign beganstrong after getting thenod in the first threegames. Clementshowed flashes of hisshooting abilitythroughout the seasonwith 15 points in ahome loss to TheCitadel, and 17 pointsagainst NCAATournament participantChattanooga. Whenasked about bringingClement in to NCCU,Moton compared himto former Duke stand-out J.J. Redick.

“I have had the for-tune of coaching thisyoung man since hewas 12 years old, soobviously there is a lotof emotion involvedhere,” said Moton. “Ihave said this from dayone, he is the bestshooter that I have evercoached and we wel-come that ability hereat NCCU.”

Per NCAA transferrules, Clement willhave to sit-out the2009-10 season.

NCCU MEN’S BASKETBALL INKS TWO RECRUITS

Landon Clement

C.J. Wilkerson


POLITICAL AND CIVIC AFFAIRSLEGAL EAGLE ADVISOR

by Professor Irving JoynerNCCU School of Law

THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT: ATA CROSS ROAD ON MINORITY RIGHTS AND

PROTECTIONSOn May 1, 2009, Associate Justice DavidSouter of the United States Supreme Courtannounced his resignation from that Court.Justice Souter’s decision will now providePresident Barack Obama with his first oppor-tunity to select and appoint a replacement.Not only is this the President’s first appoint-ment to the Supreme Court, but it providesan opportunity for Obama to define for thecountry his vision of the political philosophywhich he wants the Court to follow. This

opportunity has already sparked significant interest, speculation, threatsof a filibuster and robust opposition from conservative Republicans.Whatever choice President Obama makes, it will certainly differ fromthe right-wing conservative trend which the previous BushAdministration sought to impose upon the nation.

The importance of the United States Supreme Court to the guaranteesof individual rights and the protections of minorities and minoritygroups can not be underestimated. The Supreme Court interprets theconstitution and decides when legislative and other efforts mandatedby the majority infringe upon basic and fundamental rights which areguaranteed by an updated constitution and federal laws. Had it notbeen for favorable interpretations of this document by the SupremeCourt, minority groups and women would still be relegated to “secondclass citizenship.” As a result of bold rulings by previous Supreme Court,right wing conservatives in this country have been fighting to gain con-trol of this Court for the purpose of returning it to the philosophy ofthe founding fathers. Those persons who initially drafted the constitu-tion did not care about the interest and concerns of minorities andwomen. These conservatives hang their political interpretation of theconstitution behind the banner of “original intent” which is designed tocapture the racist and sexist views of those person who drafted thefirst United States Constitution. We can not go back to that era.

As with every appointment to the federal court, there are many inter-est groups who may be affected by the political leanings and judicialphilosophy of members of the Supreme Court. That interest is espe-cially strong with President Obabma’s first appointment. Presently, theSupreme Court is almost evenly split between four conservative lean-ing Justices, four moderate to liberal leaning Justices and one mem-ber, Justice Anthony Kennedy, who alternately votes with either of

Irving Joyner

NC NAACP President Dr. William Barber addresses crowdat press conference.

RALEIGH, NC – On May 21st, the NC-NAACP,the Historic Thousands on Jones Street Coalitionand the NC Coalition for a Moratorium - with sup-port from recently polled voters - called on NorthCarolina legislators to pass a clean version of theNC Racial Justice Act, free of amendments thatwould restart executions before the courts can sortout important legal questions.

“Any attempt by legislators to use the RacialJustice Act - a bill that simply allows defendantsfacing the death penalty to present evidence ofracial bias in their cases-as a pretext to restart exe-cutions, is unconscionable,” said NC-NAACPPresident Rev. William Barber.

A poll conducted the week before inMecklenburg and Pitt Counties by Public PolicyPolling shows overwhelming support for the RacialJustice Act, as well as strong support for a bill thatexempts people with severe mental illness from thedeath penalty. Polling in these counties providesa bellwether as to opinions of voters in other partsof the state; Mecklenburg County is NorthCarolina’s largest, urban county, located in thewestern part of the state, and Pitt is a large ruralcounty in the east.

.76% of Mecklenburg County voters saidthat capital defendants should be able topresent evidence, including statistical evi-dence, of racial bias to the court;.69% of Pitt County voters said the same;.63% of Mecklenburg County voters said

COALITION ASKS LEGISLATORS TO PASS

NC RACIAL JUSTICE ACT

NC Racial Justice Act continues on page 38


these groups. Usually in controversial or high profile cases, JusticeKennedy’s vote creates a five-four majority decision.

Because Justice Souter is a member of the four member moderate-lib-eral voting bloc on the Court, it is widely anticipated that PresidentObama will appoint someone to the Court who has demonstrated a judi-cial and political philosophy and leaning which is similar to that exhib-ited by Justice Souter. The confirmation process for the President’sappointee will be brutal as interest groups ——- particularly rightwing conservative groups —— will attempt to closely scrutinize everyaspect of the nominee’s personal and professional life.

As presently constituted, the United States Supreme Court is reviewingseveral legal challenges which will likely have a profound impact on theimmediate future of Civil Rights protections in the United States. Whileit is important for us to monitor the nomination process, we can notforget that the present Supreme Court is going about its business asusual and those decisions will have a profound impact upon each of us.Based upon prior rulings from the Court as it is presently constituted,it is highly likely that some civil and political rights protections whichare presently in place will be dismantled when these decisions are ren-dered. Court-watchers are waiting for the decisions with bated-breathand resigned anticipation.

The dismantling of these protections has already begun. In a recent 5-4decision issued by the Court, it was determined that high ranking GeorgeBush officials can not be the subject of a civil rights claim for their rolein authorizing abusive and discriminatory practicing directed at persons ofArab descent and Muslims. The plaintiff in that case, Javaid Iqbal, arguedthat he should be able to sue these officials because they created inves-tigative policies and practices which targeted Arabs and Muslims for inten-sive investigations and abusive treatment which included strip searches andbeatings. In a significant set-back for other civil rights claims againsthigh ranking federal policy-makers and officials, the Court ruled that tar-geting people for intense investigative purposes even where the policy wasdirected at a particular race did not amount to race or religious dis-crimination. This decision prevented Iqbal, in this case from discoveringand reviewing records and files which would support Iqbal’s immediateclaim of a purposeful discrimination by Bush White House officials. Thisdecision will also serve as a precedent to prevent others from assertingsimilar claims when there is evidence which demonstrates that the con-stitutional rights of any citizen has been violated.

Within the next few weeks, the Court will issue a decision in a Texascase which directly attacks Congress’ re-authorization of the 1965 VotingRights Act. The Voting Rights Act was extended for an additional 25 yearsin 2006. An important provision of that Act requires voting jurisdictionswhich have a history of racial discrimination to obtain a pre-clearanceof new voting related laws to insure that new laws do not negativelyimpact the ability of racial minorities to register and vote. Most of theStates which are required to undergo Section 5 pre-clearance are locat-ed in the South and had a history of denying the right to vote toAfrican-Americans and Hispanics.

The specific challenge before the Supreme Court seeks a ruling thatCongress did not have the constitutional authority to extend the Voting

Rights Act. Four members of the Court —- Chief Justice Roberts, JusticesAlito, Thomas and Scalia — have already indicated that they will voteto dismantle the Act. It is anticipated that Justices Ginsburg, Souter,Breyer and Stevens are expected to uphold the Act. Justice Kennedy, whohas voted in earlier cases to limit the reach of the Act and, is expect-ed to vote with the conservatives bloc to declare the Section 5 provi-sion as unconstitutional. Such a decision will have a tremendously neg-ative impact on voting rights in the United States.

In another case, a challenge to Title VII of the Civil Right’s Act, firefight-ers in New Haven Connecticut are challenging that town’s decision tore-test applicants for promotion to supervisory roles in the FireDepartment. The town reviewed the initial test which was administeredafter they discovered that only White test-takers scored high enough onthe test to qualify for promotions. The review of the initial test led toa conclusion that the test was discriminatory. Efforts to devise a newtest were blocked by a law suit filed on behalf of the higher scoringWhite firemen. New Haven officials concluded that they were requiredby Title VII to invalidate the results of the earlier tests once they deter-mined that the test was racially flawed.

The Supreme Court will decide if the Title VII requirement not to dis-criminate on the basis of race serves as a valid justification for a townor employer to order new testing to determine who should be consid-ered for employment promotions. In this case, the Civil Rights Actrequired the town not to use a promotional or employment tests whichhad a disparate impact on minorities. Already, the same four conserva-tive Justices have indicated their vote to support the White firemen whowere the highest scoring individuals on the original flawed tests. Thedeciding vote will again be cast by Justice Kennedy who is not a friendof the requirements of Title VII and generally disfavors efforts to pro-mote affirmative action efforts for minority applicants or workers. It iswidely anticipated that the Court will rule against the City of New Havenwhich wanted to conduct a new test to determine who should be onthe list to be promoted to the supervisory positions. This decision willalso have national implications.

Decisions in the latter two important cases will be issued before June30th. The stakes which are presented by these cases are also present asPresident Obama decides who to nominate to replace Justice Souter. Atbest, that individual will not enhance the strength of the moderate-liber-al bloc on the Court. Hopefully, Obama’s appointee will not join the con-servative voting bloc. If so, minority rights and protections will be doomed.

It is hoped, but not highly anticipated, that one or more members ofthe conservative bloc will leave the Court during the next four years.Since all of these Justices are relatively young and in good health, it isunlikely that the President will have an opportunity to replace either ofthat “gang of four,” but anything can happen. You should know that thestakes are extremely high with upcoming actions from and related tothe United States Supreme Court. In coming discussions, we will explorethe outcome of these cases as well as the Obama Supreme Courtappointment.

Irving Joyner

Legal Eagle Advisor continues


they did not support the death penalty forpeople who were seriously mentally ill atthe time of the crime; .58% of Pitt County voters said the same.

“The poll reflects what we already know,” saidCharmaine Fuller, Executive Director of theCarolina Justice Policy Center. “NorthCarolinians support efforts to fight racism in ourcapital punishment system. They also believe thatpeople who suffer from severe mental illnessshould not be subjected to the ultimate punish-ment.”

While executions have been on hold, threeAfrican-American death row inmates were exoner-ated in North Carolina. In all of the cases, at leastone of the victims was white. One of them had anall-white jury. A UNC study found that a defen-dant’s odds of getting the death penalty increase by3.5 times if the victim was white.

“The legislature need not interfere with thecourts,” said NC Coalition for a MoratoriumCampaign Coordinator Jeremy Collins. “Beforeexecutions are restarted, the legislature mustaddress a broken death penalty system that risksexecuting innocent and severely mentally ill peo-ple, and one that uses race as a deciding factor inwhether someone lives or dies,” added Collins.“All we are asking is that efforts to reduce wrong-ful executions be considered and passed on theirown merits.”

Darwinism. How so you may ask. Well, what is the purpose ofracism, classism, and sexism…..POWER; the preservation of powerand control. Not only black folk, but women and people of colorworldwide have been enslaved, beaten and lynched so that onegroup may thrive over another. When the British invaded SouthAfrica, they easily defeated all surrounding nations except one.When they encountered the great Zulu Nation, there was no ques-tion in their mind which group was more “fit.” The Zulu were themost well-trained, highly disciplined warriors throughout southernAfrica. Yet, they were defeated by way of gunpowder and a lack ofadaptation.

My question to US today, is why has the American Negro notevolved in both thought and action regarding our treasured pursuitof FREEDOM? We’ve been here 400+ years but still recognize notwhat we fight, why we’re fighting, nor how we should be fighting!!Now ask yourself what’s the real reason so many brothas arelocked up? And what’s the real reason why the American Negroisn’t taught factual World History? Keep a nation dumb and discour-aged; and you’ll control their mind and bodies. That…brothas andsistas equals POWER! And power equals SURVIVAL.

Till Next Month - Peace and Blessings,

Bro. Rightchus

The Rightchus Truth continues

NC Racial Justice Act continues


SPECTACULARMAGAZINE

ENLIGHTENING

EMPOWERING

ENTERTAININGwww.spectacularmag.com

GRANVILLE COUNTYOut of the darkness...

...INTO THE LIGHTBy Minister Curtis Gatewood

GRANVILLE CITIZENS DEMAND REMOVALOF CONFEDERATE MONUMENT

Stirring up ‘New Righteous Souls of the South’As with God’s help, this column seeks to continuously take readers “out ofthe darkness and into the light”, I would like to take you to the scene of anew battle as it relates to Granville County and the confederacy. It startedaround 1909, during the same year a certain diverse group of moral andrighteous citizens were giving birth to an anti-lynching campaign that laterbecame known as the “National Association for the Advancement of ColoredPeople (NAACP)”.

Rev. J. A. Stradley, an “ancient Baptist divine” who had served as aConfederate soldier, gave the invocation on October 30, 1909, as AugustaLandis, the youngest daughter of Captain Augustus Landis, wartime com-mander of the “Granville Grays”, came from Durham to unveil a confeder-ate statue. However, the statue was late arriving and confederate flagswere displayed in front of the Granville County courthouse instead. Butapproximately five years later, The Honorable A. W. Graham would presentthe monument on behalf of the Granville Grays Chapter of the “UnitedDaughters of the Confederacy”. For the next sixty years, the statue wouldremain erected in the middle of one of Oxford’s main intersections, at thenorth end of Main Street, “a stone’s throw from the courthouse” and in theheart of the business district.

The greatest known rebellion against the statue came nearly sixty yearsafter its arrival to Oxford, during the aftermath of the murder of Henry“Dickie” Marrow, a twenty-three year-old black veteran with two daughtersand another on the way. According to Oxford native and best-sellingauthor, Dr. Tim Tyson in his book, “Blood Done Signed My Name”, Tyson’strue accounts of the murder begins “on a May day in 1970”, where herecalls being told as a ten year-old white youth by another one of his whitefriends: “Daddy and Roger and ‘em shot ‘em a nigger.” Dr. Tyson (who nowserves with us on the Executive Committee for the North Carolina NAACP)goes on to explain how Marrow had been shot, beaten, and killed after aseries of events not yet fully known, whereby “tempers flared betweenwhite shopkeeper, Robert Gerald Teel, his son, 18-year-old Robert LarryTeel, and Marrow”.

Amongst other things the killing sparked protests and calls for the removalof the confederate monument. The horrific injustice also allowed newnational leadership to emerge such as Oxford native, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis,who was then a youth who led protests and calls for the removal of the con-federate statue as part of their response to the Marrow lynching.

In 1971, the statue was moved from the Main Street location, to where itnow sits prominently on West Spring Street, in front of the downtown

Richard H. Thornton Library. The library is located at the corner of W. Springand Main Streets. Meanwhile, Eddie McCoy, who also grew up in the middleof the Marrow and monument controversy, is now a neighbor of mine.McCoy recently came over to invite me to a meeting relative to new con-cerns involving the removal of the monument since the library, the currenthome of the statue has laid out plans for renovation after receiving a bondthat was supported by Granville County voters. McCoy, myself, certain otherministers and concerned citizens are questioning a plan which would pro-vide a prominent place for the confederate monument as part of the reno-vations. To the contrary, those of us who seek justice, for once and for all,see this as an opportunity to surgically remove this racially offensive mon-ument from the disease-infected heart of Oxford, NC.

As Second Vice President of the NC NAACP and one who has assumed theresponsibility of rebuilding the local Granville Branch of the NAACP, Rev. Dr.William J. Barber, II, who serves as President of the NC NAACP hasexpressed his and the NC NAACP support for our efforts. Consequently, Dr.Barber granted me permission to speak on behalf of the NC NAACP as Iaddressed the Granville County Board of Commission on Monday, June 1,2009. Others who spoke at the commissioner’s meeting in support ofremoving the monument included Former City Commissioner Eddie McCoy,long-time Oxford activist and author, Rev. Bernard Holliday, and longtimeactivist Joan Bert.

Therefore, the new movement to remove this confederate monument from theheart of Granville County is growing. Furthermore, as I seek your prayers forGod’s healing medications of justice for Oxford and the Granville County com-munity, I am sharing with you, the address the Lord laid upon my heart tospeak to the Granville County commissioners.

Meanwhile, through the Lord’s “spirit” of “power, love, and a sound mind”,we envision a new south, and intend to raise up NEW RIGHTEOUS SOULS ofTHE SOUTH. Southerners who intend to use our strength to uproot the foun-dation of hatred and division and rebuild using the concrete of God’s loveand the shelter of his peace. We subsequently ask that you join us (call meat 919 939-6311) as we continue “fighting the good fight”, and attracting“new righteous souls”, and recruiting new members for the Newly ChargedGranville County Branch of the NAACP (within weeks we have grown from10 to 80 members, driving toward 100, and with 100 we can grow to 1,000and become the largest in the state)!

Curtis E. Gatewood’s address to the Granville County Boardof CommissionersRE: The Removal of the Confederate Monument from Downtown OxfordDATE: Monday, June 01, 2009

Chairman and Board of Commissioners, I am Curtis E. Gatewood , andwould like to go on record today, first as a minister who greets you withthe love and peace of Christ Jesus; secondly as a resident of Oxford andGranville County, where as of June 11th I would have been here six years;thirdly, I bring greetings from the oldest and largest civil rights organiza-tion in this nation, the National Association for the Advancement of ColoredPeople - the North Carolina State Conference of the NAACP, where I serveas 2nd Vice President, and where I have also assumed the responsibility ofrebuilding the local Granville County Branch of the NAACP, as we celebrateour 100th year anniversary.

With that I am pleased to report as of May of this year, with the sup-port of the local Ministerial Conference, and others, the local branch of theNAACP has grown to surpass the number of NAACP members required to


have a legitimate and bona fide branch of the NAACP for the first time dur-ing the six years I have lived in the county.

With this said, I have shared my local interest in this issue before youtoday with our State NAACP President, Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II. He hassubsequently assured me that I speak for the more than 100 branches ofthe North Carolina NAACP as I share these views with you today.

First let me express my concern for the unbalanced, one-sided, andseemingly hypocritical tone that is being set within our city and county asit relates to the armed confederate soldier-statue and confederate monu-ment that has through the grace of God resurfaced as an issue in light ofthe proposed renovation of the Richard H. Thornton Library here in Oxford.

I have observed and heard with great interests, certain voices whoclaim those of us who have been long offended by the city and county’saggressive, bold, and conspicuous erection of such a divisive symbol in theheart of our city, to remain complacently silent by a defeated voice of con-sent, or tippy-toe through the tulips of confusion to supposedly avoid so-called “division” or a “great divide” if we were to ever raise our voices.

Let me first say, any conscious elected officials concerned aboutavoiding divisive messages and avoiding a great divide within our city,should not have, in the first place, allowed our tax dollars, our sidewalks,or our public facilities to be contaminated by the conspicuous promotion ofa monument which on a daily basis represents and reminds us of the ugli-est and most divisive chapter in our nation’s history.

I remind you, this is a monument which amplifies the one time ournation was so divided that it took up war against itself; the monument cel-ebrates those who had the audacity to violently rebel against these unitedstates because amongst other reasons, they did not want to see the abol-ishment of slavery and white supremacy. Need I go on to remind you of thedivision this monument represents?

And must I remind you of the inappropriateness of a such a symbolwhen for the first time, this nation has elected an African American presi-dent, while racist-hate-radio talk-show hosts such as Rush Limbaugh areopenly calling for a race war; a rebellion against the government; and adesire to see the President “fail”, or see our nation fail under what thusfar has been a demonstration of moral, compassionate, and competentleadership. In other words some have made clear they are willing to

undermine this African-American president at all cost. Even if it meansseceding certain states and/or inciting others to take up arms against ourfederal government in ways this monument represents.

Then there is the “heritage” argument. Do you understand there werealso violent rebellions which were part of the African-American “heritage”such as those who fought slave merchants and took over their slave ships?There were rebellions such as the one led by Nat Turner. So if our city andcounty want to get into the business of glorifying violent rebellions for thesake of “our heritage”, there were rebellions on both sides.

Contrary to what has been portrayed by the mass media, all AfricanAmericans were not tap dancing and bowing to “Massa”. Therefore, if wewant to talk about “heritage”, it did not begin or end with the Confederacy.

We have black soldiers who during the peak of racism, slavery, or JimCrow, who were not fighting against the American flag, but dying to defendthe American flag and this country. Yet we choose to honor those whorebelled against this country in defense of institutionalized slavery andwhite supremacy. This has been a mistake and an injustice for years andit is time that our city officials recognize it.

I conclude by saying the monument must be moved, period, and neveragain be put in a prominent part of our city, especially when there are nomonuments honoring events, individuals, or soldiers who represent a uni-fying, inspirational, and moral perspective while fighting a “good fight” asPaul the Apostle; or as a “Good Shepherd” as Jesus the Christ; or like thosewho courageously fought on the right side of history, toward building thisnation toward the beacon of light it has now become, for the world to see.

Again, I say, the monument represents a one-sided and divisive era inour history at a time we desperately need to unite culturally, politically,morally, and spiritually.

Let us not fail in this great opportunity to do whatever is necessary toremove this divisive symbol from the heart of what could be a city thatwelcomes love, diversity, and tolerance.

MMiinniisstteerr CCuurrttiiss EE.. GGaatteewwooooddGatewood serves as Founder of “Save Our Little Ones (SOLO)” based in Oxford, NC and is 2ndVice President of the NC NAACP State Conference of Branches/Units. Minister Gatewood has aBachelor of Theology Degree, an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, and currentlyworking on a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling at the Apex School of Theology.

Into The Light continues


BE THE ROCK INSOMEONE’S LIFE

When his wife died in 1971, he was ready to call it quits. Gladys wasa big part of him. She was the love of his life…his sweetheart. For thir-ty five years, she was not only his companion, but his business manag-er, accountant, and therapist. She gave him every kind of guidance heneeded. But now she is gone.

He turned into one sour note.

For many days after her untimely death, he didn’t care to live. He juststared at her photography all day while his vibes collected dust. He hadno reason to live. His despair was do great that he even though aboutchucking away the biggest dream of his life, a housing project and musicschool, he wanted to build in Harlem.

This dream began thirty years earlier in the 1940’s. He would visit south-ern towns and visit Black colleges and ask why they did not have cours-es in Black music and its place in American History. “That’s all behindus,” was the usual answer he got.

For many years, he was able to raise support from colleges, governmentagencies and from private sources. The vision was to create a complexthat would promote the music of Bach and Mozart to Louis Armstrongto Fats Waller.

Once the project got started, racial tension arose in the Black commu-nity over the fact that a lot of the construction was done by Whitesand that Whites would attend the school. He said, “You know, Harlem cana bitter place and some residents threatened to tear the place downafter it was built.”

One evening he was sitting at home, alone and discouraged, he won-dered what Gladys would have done. He wished she was there to givehim the answers. Then all of a sudden, he remembered the many thingsthey had in common, like their tastes in music, food, friends, and shows.Not only were they able to share their joys, they could share their sor-rows. “Dear I could hear her say, let’s forget our troubles tonight andrub them out by reading the Psalms.”

Gladys favorite was Psalm Chapter 40 verse number 2. So he remem-bered that and sat in their love seat and he began to read “He broughtme up also our of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feetupon a rock, and established my goings.

He read it over and over.

“He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, andset my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

Something miraculous happen. This confession of faith seemed to be aturning point. Soon there after he got what it seemed to be a new burstof energy. He got strong all of sudden like a four-bar rest.

He began to write letters again and all sorts of people began to sup-port the project and soon money began to pour in. Now when personsbegan to complaint, he would tell them, like in music, “You got to have

the White keys as well as the Black ones to make harmony.” Somehowthey brought this and the hatred began to fade.

Finally on November 31, 1971 through the help of God, he pulled him-self out of the horrible pit that he had been stuck in. On that day dur-ing the ground breaking ceremony he told the crowd that once the build-ings were completed there will be a motto nailed up out front with oldsecond verse of Psalm 40 verse number 2, “He set my feet upon a rockand established my goings.”

Oh, by the way, Gladys husband was Lionel Hampton, the jazz great whoplayed with Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman before forming theLionel Hampton Orchestra in 1940.

By Dr. Alvin Augustus JonesAs an expert of achievement and folly, your success is important to me. If I can assistyou in any way, please write me at Dr. Alvin Augustus Jones P.O. Box 9, Oxford, NC27565, email me at [email protected], call 919-693-3540 or listen to me daily from6AM-10AM on WCBQ-AM 1340/WHNC-AM 890 or www.dralvin.com.

Nifty 90's DinnerGranville County Senior Services will be hosting the 3rdannual Nifty 90's Dinner on July 14, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.Due to the increasing number of 90+ seniors, this year'sevent will be held at the Oxford Public Works Building.There will be a catered meal and entertainment. There isno charge for our 90+ attendees. Attendees may bring oneguest at a cost of $6.00.

If you are 90 or older, or know someone who is, please callthe Granville County Senior Center at 693-1930 to giveus your information. Invitations will be mailed.

Cell Phone & Small ElectronicsRecycling:

Granville County Senior Center in Oxford is collecting oldcell phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, video game sys-tems (hand held), and ipods as a fundraiser for the center.We have set up a collection box in the center. If youwould like to donate any of these items, please drop it offwith us. This is an easy way to raise money for servicesfor the 60 population of Granville County.



HEALTH

KNOW YOUR NUMBERSHealth tests and screenings make it possible for you to detect andtreat disease. The earlier a problem is caught, the better. Healthcare professionals also use the information to see if you are at riskfor certain medical conditions that can be prevented. On June 20that the annual Juneteenth Celebration we will be providing you withnumbers that can save your life and make a difference in youroverall health.

The first number is your weight. Your weight affects more thanjust how you look. It can be a contributing factor to many dis-eases. Get on the road to weight management by recording yourweight at regular intervals. You'll be able to see whether you aregaining weight, losing weight or staying at the same weight. Thenyou can decide what actions to take. BMI (Body Mass Index) Itmeasures your weight in relation to your height. It can be usefulfor gauging whether you are overweight or obese. The levels areas follows. Below 18.5 is underweight, 18.5-24.9 normal, and 25.0to 29.9 over weight and 30.0 and over obese.

Next you need to know your waist measurement. The location offat on your body affects your risk for disease. If you carry yourfat mainly around your waist, you are more likely to develop healthproblems than if you carry fat mainly on your hips and thighs.You should determine your waist circumference by placing measur-ing tape snugly around your waist. For men over 40 inches indi-cates increased risk for weight- related problems. For women over35 inches it indicates increased risk for weight related problems.

High blood pressure called hypertension is a cunning thief, leftunchallenged it can steal a decade of quality life. The averageAmerican's blood pressure in middle age is about 130/80 but sincethe average American dies of heart disease that number isn't goodenough. Instead aim for 120/80. Measure your blood pressuremonthly at the same time of day. To lower your blood pressure,exercise hard enough to sweat for at least an hour each week. Ifyou are use to 30 min work outs, this means you will need to dothree, since it takes at least ten minutes to start sweating.

Cholesterol is a type of fat made by your liver and carried to yourblood. You also get cholesterol from certain foods. Cholesterol

readings measure your total blood cholesterollevel and your levels of the two main types ofcholesterols LDL, and HDL. They also measureyour triglycerides, fat found in the body LDL isknown as bad cholesterol because it carries cho-lesterol from the liver to the rest of the body.When too much LDL is in the blood, it getsdeposited as plaque on artery walls, which canlead to heart attack and stroke. A high triglyc-eride level plus high LDL speeds up the clogging

of arteries. HDL is known as good cholesterol because it carriescholesterol to the liver for elimination the higher your HDL level,the more cholesterol can leave your body lowering your risk ofheart disease. Total Blood Cholesterol less than 200 mg/dl is desir-able, 200-239 mg/dl is borderline high risk, 240mg/dl and over ishigh risk. LDL goal 70 mg/dl very high risk, less than 100mg/dlis high risk, less than 130 mg/dl moderate risk, less than 160mg/dllow risk. The HDL guide lines are less than 40mg/dl increased riskfor heart disease, 60mg/dl and over lowered risk for heart disease.Triglycerides guidelines are less than 150mg/dl normal, 150-199mg/dl borderline high, 200-499mg/dl high, 500mg/dl and oververy high.

Before you get out of bed to commune with the coffee maker, takeyour pulse. Put two fingertips on your wrist or carotid artery (onyour neck, under jaw) and count the beats per minute. This isyour resting heart rate. Anything higher than 83 means you're atincreased risk for a heart attack. The other danger of fat is thatit can block insulin's blood sugar and puts you at risk for Diabetes.Your blood sugar should be less than 100 after an overnight oreight hour fast and less than 125 if you aren't fasting. The fast-ing glucose tells the amount of sugar in your blood. The test isused to diagnose Diabetes and Pre Diabetes as well as to monitorexisting cases of Diabetes. Less than 100 mg/dl is normal, 100-125mg/dl is Pre Diabetes, 125 or more is Diabetes.

It is also a good idea for post menopausal women to get a bonedensity scan, especially those who are not on a hormone replace-ment. If your mother had Osteoporosis you should be testedaround age 50. Above -1 is normal, between -1 and -25Osteopenia, below -2.5 means you have osteoporosis.

Keeping up with these numbers should provide you a baseline foryour overall health. Please talk with your health care professionalsif your numbers are abnormal. Advocate for your own health,because your health outcomes begin with you.

God Bless,

Sharon Elliott-BBynum"Beloved I wish above all things that you prosper and be in Good Health…."


June is Vision Research MonthBy Vinod Jindal, M.D.

Until recently, life without reading glasses or bifocals was not anoption for most cataract patients. Now there’s a leading edge pro-cedure in vision surgery being performed at Granville HealthSystem that enables people undergoing cataract surgery to havethe chance to achieve independence from eyeglasses.

The advanced procedure, performed by Vinod Jindal, M.D., boardcertified ophthalmologist, involves implantation of a multifocalpresbyopic intraocular lens (IOL) during cataract surgery. Theadvantage of this cataract treatment compared to single lensesis that the multifocal lens improves vision at all distances – upclose, far away and everything in between.

Said Dr. Jindal, “I am proud to be on the leading edge of thistechnology, which will be beneficial to so many of my patientswho have cataracts and presbyopia.”

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens. Whenthe lens becomes cloudy, light rays cannot pass through it easily,and vision is blurred. If left untreated, it can slowly, but signifi-cantly, cause visual symptoms; these typically include blurredvision, glare, halos around lights, and double vision.

A cataract may not need to be treated if your vision is onlyslightly blurry. Simply changing your eyeglass prescription mayhelp to improve your vision for a while. However, surgery is theonly way to remove a cataract. When you are no longer able tosee well enough to do the things you like to do, cataract surgeryshould be considered.

Many people have presbyopia along with cataracts. Presbyopia isa problem that is due to an aging process occurring in the natu-ral lens of the eye. As we perform daily activities such as read-ing, watching television or working at the computer, our eyes areconstantly focusing on objects at varying distances. But once aperson reaches about 40 years of age, the lens expands, becomesharder and is less pliable. Consequently, the lens is not as capa-ble of changing its shape so it can quickly focus. The usual wayto correct this problem is to use bifocal lenses or reading glass-es. However, many people with presbyopia are now opting for themultifocal presbyopic intraocular lens (IOL).

While lens implants have been available for over 50 years, themultifocal lens is manufactured from a third-generation solid sil-icone to attain maximal strength and flexibility. A unique innova-

LEADING EDGE CATARACTPROCEDURE PERFORMED ATGRANVILLE HEALTH SYSTEM

PARTNERS IN HEALTH tion that has been approved by the FDAfor presbyopia and cataracts, the multifo-cal presbyopic IOL is placed at the time ofcataract surgery. The lens is available in

different powers to suit different patients’ needs; about 80% ofpatients reported never needing glasses after the procedure.

During the multifocal presbyopic IOL procedure, the cloudycataract lens is removed from the eye through a tiny surgical inci-sion. Next, the natural lens is replaced with a permanent intraoc-ular lens (IOL) implant through the same tiny incision.

“We perform highly sophisticated, ‘no-stitch’ surgery to safelyremove your cataracts,” said Dr. Jindal. “Because this procedureis performed through a very small incision, your eye will be ableto heal rapidly with little or no discomfort,” he continued.

Cataract removal and IOL implantation are generally performedin the hospital, as an outpatient procedure, under local or topicalanesthesia. The procedure usually takes 15 to 45 minutes.Following the procedure, you will be able to return home withinan hour or so. Vision is restored immediately in most cases, andusually continues to improve in the weeks following the proce-dure.

“Currently, multifocal presbyopic IOLs offer the most promisingresults with improved optics and designs that appear to effectchanges in optical power,” said Dr. Jindal. “Multifocal lensesrequire less eye movement to achieve the same level of accom-modation when compared with single-focal designs,” he contin-ued.

While practicing in Oxford for the past 7 years, Dr. Jindal has per-formed over 1,500 cataract surgeries with lens implants and hasprovided ongoing state-of-the-art medical and surgical eye carefor patients at Granville Health System. “We strive to supply themost sophisticated technology and solutions to our patients, andare committed to providing them with all the options and infor-mation available,” said Dr. Jindal.

Specializing in diseases and surgery of the retina-vitreous, mac-ula, cataracts and glaucoma, Dr. Jindal has a particular interestin intraocular lens implants. He has attended extensive continu-ing medical education courses, remaining current in such topicsas presbyopic corrective, astigmatic and aspheric IOLs.

Dr. Jindal is board certified by the American Board ofOphthalmology, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, aFellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a member ofthe American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and amember of the NC Medical Society since 2002.

If you struggle with vision problems, find out youroptions. Learn more about Dr. Jindal’s services by call-ing New Century Ophthalmology at 919-693-6661, orvisit Granville Health System online atwww.granvillemedical.com.

brought to you by


LIFESTYLE

This is Your Life...BBYY DEELL MAATTTTIIOOLLII

EVEN DURINGTOUGH TIMES, LIFEINSURANCE OFFERSPEACE OF MIND

Del MattioliAs you watch the value of your property, home or retirement invest-ment savings struggle in the current economy, you may be wonderingabout ways to protect your family in the event of an unforeseenevent. One option you may not have considered is the purchase of awhole life insurance policy.

It may not be something you’d automatically turn to, but whole lifeinsurance offers guaranteed death benefit protection in addition tomultiple tax advantages and flexibility. Owning a whole life policy canbe a great financial alternative, not only for the protection of yourloved ones but also a financial option for your living needs.

INVEST IN YOUR LOVED ONESThe primary promise of life insurance, of course, is that your lovedones will be protected in the event of your death. And with a wholelife policy, your death benefit is guaranteed,1 whether the payoutcomes in a matter of years or decades. This is an investment thatprovides protection in the long-term interests of those you care formost, as well as your own peace of mind.

INVEST IN YOUR FUTUREBut, what you may not know is that a whole life insurance policy ismuch more than protection against the unknown. It also provides youwith tax-deferred cash value that accumulates over time. In the eventof sudden unforeseen or happily anticipated expenses, it provides areadily available source of funds. And in the long run, it can also sup-plement your retirement income.2,3

Any kind of financial strategy these days seems fraught with uncer-tainty, so it’s important to consider carefully what vehicles work bestfor your own circumstances.

Del MattioliThis educational third-party article is being provided as a courtesy by Del Mattioli. For additional infor-mation on the information or topic(s) discussed, please contact Del Mattioli at 919.401.9988 or [email protected]

1Guarantees backed by the claim-paying ability of the issuer.2If your life insurance policy is paid up and your need for a death benefit decreases.3Loans against your policy accrue interest and decrease the death benefit and cash value by the amountof the outstanding loan and interest; withdrawals reduce the available death benefit.

Neither New York Life Insurance Company, nor its agents, provides tax, legal or accounting advice. Pleaseconsult your own tax, legal or accounting professional before making any decisions.

L-R- Brett Chambers, Charlies Nelms, Roosevelt Elivert, ChareceWilliams, Timothy Lucas, Winnona Swayze, Tommy T. Mc'Neill,Sandra Thompson Chambers, Gregory Davis (NBMBAA Board)Photo: Stephenie McLean

CHANCELLOR OF NORTHCAROLINA CENTRAL

UNIVERSITYCHALLENGES BLACK

MBA'S TO "EXCELLENCE"Durham - The National Black MBA Association(NBMBAA) Raleigh Durham Chapter held itsAnnual Open House 2009 on May 7 at the DurhamArts Council art gallery located in downtownDurham. The event, attended by NBMBAA mem-bers, guests and diverse business professionals, wasopen to the public.

Keynote speaker, North Carolina CentralUniversity (NCCU) Chancellor, Charlie Nelms chal-lenged and inspired NBMBAA members and gueststo strive toward achieving excellence in business andin one's personal life. Dr. Nelms delivered a keynoteaddress entitled "Creating and Sustaining a Cultureof Excellence." He stressed that excellence shouldremain a goal, even during these difficult economictimes. First, he challenged the group to "Encourage"and to "Raise Our Expectations," in our daily busi-ness practices and in our daily messages to youngpeople. Dr. Nelms stressed that excellence can beachieved, adding that, sometimes, encouragementmakes the difference in getting excellent results.

The Chancellor's challenge toward excellence andservice was well received. Brett E. Chambers,President of the RDU Chapter, and Timothy Lucas,VP of Administration, announced several scholar-ships that will be awarded to deserving undergradu-ate and graduate students pursuing degrees inBusiness Administration. In the spirit of giving back,local entrepreneurs, Tommy and Gail McNeill, own-

NBMBAA continues on page 47



EBONETTES HOST 37TH FOUNDERS DAYDURHAM -The EbonettesService Club,Inc. of Durhamcelebrated its37th FoundersDay onS a t u r d a y ,March 21st.The theme was“CelebratingThirty SevenYears ofService in theCommunity”.This event washeld at theD u r h a mHilton Hotellocated at 3800HillsboroughRoad. A spe-cial highlightof the eventwas the “Dare to Make a Difference HonoreesRecognitions”. Eleven nominated civic and com-munity individuals “who dare to make a difference”in the community were honored during the pro-gram for their leadership and support in providingservices to one or more of the following categories:youth, seniors, education and political involve-ment - during the program.

The Ebonettes Service Club, Inc., a 501 (c) 3organization, was founded in March 1972 by fourAfrican American women who wanted to make adifference in their community. The founders, JudyByrd Dillard of Durham, Dr. Susanna Gentry-Bell(currently living in Greensboro), Carolyn JonesThomas of Durham and Marjorie Lester MonroeThorpe (deceased), founded the organization focus-ing on four broad objectives. The objectives are toenhance the development of black youth, to becomemore aware of our cultural heritage, to becomepolitically astute and relate to issues that affectour lives, and to become meaningfully involvedwith the senior citizens of our community. The

club’s motto is“Lend a help-ing hand today,see a smilingface tomor-r o w ” .Founders JudyB. Dillard andCarolyn J.Thomas arestill activemembers ful-filling manyclub leadershiproles.

T h e2009 “Dare toMake aD i f f e r e n c e ”honorees listedwith theirs p o n s o r i n gorganizat ionare as follows:

Shirley T. Burroughs – Service to Seniors; Mary H.Crutchfield - Service to Youth; Mary RogersFlores – Service to Community; Shirley G. Lassiter– Service to Youth and Seniors; Tecla McFadden –Service to Youth; Nellie F. Riley- Service to Youth;James “Jay” Rogers- Service to Youth andCommunity; Louise McKoy Shipman – Service to Youth andEducation; Marian Starnes – Service to Youth andEducation; Lorraine James Stith – Service toYouth and Seniors; Ivy Taylor – Service to Seniorsand Youth.

Each year the founders are given the opportu-nity to select a service organization that is commit-ted to making a difference in the lives of the citi-zens in the Durham Community and surroundingareas. The 2009 Founders’ Award was presentedto the “After School and Youth Enrichment” effortsat Neal Middle School in Durham.

Cora Cole-McFadden is President of theEbonettes Service Club, Inc. and Mrs. Gayle Harrisserved as the 2009 Fund Raising Chair.

Ebonettes “Dare to Make a Difference” Honorees: (seated from left to right): TeclaMcFadden, Ivy Taylor, Shirley G. Lassiter, Louise McKoy Shipman, Mary H. Crutchfieldand Marian Starnes; (standing from left to right): Ebonette Gayle Harris, Fund raisingChair; Ebonette Founder Judy B. Dillard, Nellie F. Riley, Shirley T. Burroughs, James “Jay”Rogers, Lorraine James Stith, Ebonette President – Cora Cole-McFadden and EbonetteFounder Carolyn J. Thomas.

ers of Gail's Hair Salon in Durham and NBMBAAmembers, announced their sponsorship of a multi-year scholarship award to a qualified student attend-ing NCCU, Mr. McNeill's alma mater.

Corporate and Event Sponsors for the 2009 OpenHouse included: Artful Greetings, Durham ArtGuild, Gail's Hair Salon, Fast Frame, SpectacularMagazine and State Farm Insurance.

National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) is a

premier professional organization among diversebusiness professionals. The Raleigh-DurhamChapter is an organization which was chartered in1990 as one of the now 59 chapters (44 professional,15 collegiate) of the National Black MBA AssociationInc., headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The chapteris composed of minority MBAs, MPAs, JDs, businessprofessionals, business students and entrepreneursin both the private and public sectors throughout thecountry.

NBMBAA continues


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTCELEBRATE JUNETEENTH AND BLACK

MUSIC MONTH AT HAYTI HERITAGE CENTERDURHAM - The African American Jazz Caucus,Inc. (AAJC) in partnership with theNational Association of Juneteenth JazzPresenters, Inc. (NAJJP) will celebrateJuneteenth and Black Music Month with

a symposium at theHayti HeritageCenter, (804 OldFayetteville Street)June 26 & 27. Thisjoint project was initi-ated by the AAJC,which is an affiliate ofthe MusicDepartment at NorthCarolina CentralUniversity. Dr. Larry

Ridley is the Executive Director of AAJC.The organization has an office at

Durham's historic Golden Belt as part of acommunity outreach program within theTriangle area. The outreach program'sfocus is on jazz education at the K-12 andcollege and university levels. The AAJCmission is to preserve jazz as a rare andvaluable American treasure that hasinfluenced the social, economic, politicaland religious aspects of society globally.

The symposium will be launched on Friday,June 26 at 2:00 pm with an interactive workshop

entitled"Jazz and Hip Hop - Musical andHistorical Connections". The workshop will beconducted by Dr. Will Smith, Executive Directorof the W.E.S. Group, Coordinator of MusicIndustry at North Carolina Central University,

Jazz musician and Hip Hop artist. The workshopwill demonstratethe connectionsbetween jazz andhip hop music.Workshop activi-ties will providestudents, teachersand other partici-pants with a clearunderstanding ofthe unifying fea-tures of culturalcreations thatemanate from theAfrican Americanc o m m u n i t y .Sample curriculawill be provided top a r t i c i p a t i n gteachers that canbe adapted to theirlesson plans.

An eveningperformance by Dr.Smith and theW.E.S. Group at

7:00 pm will incorporate the educational, musicaland storytelling principles that will be demon-strated during the afternoon workshop.

On Saturday, June 27th at 2:00 pm there willbe a panel discussion entitled "Jazz, the Churchand theCommunity".The panelistswill explorethe relation-ship betweensacred versuss e c u l a rmusic, howeach is per-ceived by theA f r i c a nA m e r i c a nc o m m u n i t yand how themusic hasi n f l u e n c e dthe political,

The W.E.S. Group

Dr. Larry Ridley

Jazz Symposium continues on page 49

Dr. Larry Ridley, AAJC, Executive Directorand Rev. Dr. Ronald Myers, Chairman,National Association of Juneteenth JazzPresenters (NAJJP), at press conference atSchomburg Center for Research in BlackCulture. Photo by Magdalena Benitez-Ridley


social and economic aspects of American culture.The Moderator will be Keith McKinley, Esq.,AAJC President. The members of the panel willbe: Rev. Marvin Chandler - Lecturer, Pianist,Indianapolis, IN; Rev. Jean-Luc Charles -Associate Pastor, White Rock Baptist Church,Durham; Rev. Ronald Myers, Sr., M.D. - Director,Fellowship of Creative Christian Jazz Musicians(FCCJM) & Chairman, National Association ofJuneteenth Jazz Presenters (NAJJP), Belzoni,MS; Rev. Michael Page - Executive Director,United Christian Campus Ministry at NorthCarolina Central University and Pastor ofAntioch Baptist Church, Durham; Rev. Canon,Edwin E. Smith - Retired Episcopal Minister,Glen Mills, PA; Dr. Will Smith - ExecutiveDirector, W.E.S. Group, Coordinator of MusicIndustry, North Carolina Central University,Durham.

A "Juneteenth Jazz Worship Concert" will begiven at 7:00 pm. The performers will be NationalJuneteenth Jazz Director, Rev. Dr. RonaldMyers, on piano and trumpet and the"Juneteenth Jazz Praise Ensemble", featuring

Derrick Brown on bass, Wilton Knott, on percus-sion and Aye Aton, on drums. The performancewill also feature the "The Love Christian CenterMale Chorus", directed by Audie Heard. Thechorus is supported by Pastor Bishop W. Ronaldand Mother Lotus Hash. The Center is located inEast Spencer, NC.

The works of Jim Alexander, noted photo-journalist and AAJC Official PhotoDocumentarian, will be on exhibit throughout thetwo day symposium. His exhibit "Those WhoPraise Him" will include a selection of jazz andhip hop artists such as Duke Ellington, Mary LouWilliams, Dizzy Gillespie, Donald Byrd andRussell Gunn whose musical works reflect thedeep spiritual roots inherent in black music.Alexander's work has been exhibited nationallyand internationally. They can be found in manypublic and private collections, including theSmithsonian.

This event will prove to be not only education-al, but inspiring and entertaining. The workshopand panel discussion are free and open to the gen-eral public. Evening Performances: $15, Studentsand Seniors $10.

Jazz Symposium continues

CrCreaeatitive ve CCololorforful ul PePeopopleleby

Valerie Whitted& Karl Blake

and will have other AfricanAmerican stamp series on displayas well.

Also there is a health fair withwellness and diagnostic screen-ings from highly qualified medicalprofessionals, so again, there is noexcuse not to look out for yourselfand the ones you love.

But before all this, the day beginswith a Unity March, where theadults march with their children,biological or not, down EnterpriseStreet from Roxboro Street to thepark. And you ask, how much isadmission?

All together now, can we say it isFREE, the medical advice is FREE,performances and mini-concertsare all FREE too, featuring localfavorites, regional sensations andone that is probably still a favoriteof your mama, and auntie’s,national recording groups fromway back when will be there livetoo. That would be none otherthan Ray, Goodman andBrown...you know their hits, ofcourse you do, one goes like this“You must be a special Lady, and a

We are whatsome wouldcall folksa b o u ttown…if it isinterest ingto us, hope-fully you will

enjoy hearing about it, too!CrCreeaatitivve e CCololororfful ul PPeeopoplele lets usshare impressions of what wehave seen and done recently andwhat is coming up that you mightwant to check out. Warning: ADurhamite and a Philly transplantmay not always agree!

Coming up is the 5th Annual NC-Durham Juneteeth Celebration &Unity March. Some folks have noclue what Juneteenth is, but thereis no better time to learn than atthe NC official festival coming upSaturday June 20th. (OK, here isyour hint, the EmancipationProclamation that ended slaverywas not the end…folks in Texas did

not find outuntil June 19ththe followingyear…thus then a m eJ u n e te e nt h )Forest HillsPark, the bigpark lined with the stately oldtrees on University Drive inDurham is where it will be heldthis year.

Look for all the tents, vendors,soundstage, cars; listen for thesounds and if all else fails, followyour nose and surely you won’tmiss it. The kids have an areawhere they can bounce and playuntil they are worn out, theDurham Art Guild and friends willhost an Art Pavilion for artists togive hands on instruction and talkabout their work you’ll find on dis-play and for sale. The US PostalService is dedicating a new stamp

Creative, Colorful People continues on page 50


Creative, Colorful People continues

very exciting girl…cause you got me sitting on top ofthe world…sitting on top of the world”

Bimbe 2009 had the best attendance ever, accordingto the folks that have been here for the previous 39festivals. Performances from poets, dancers, JohnnyWhite and the Elite Band, Kirk Keyes and the Hillsidedrum section carried the beat.

The old school was well represented by the manhimself Whodini, and now it is confirmed, the freaksdo not just come out at night, especially when theadmission is free!

Artsplosure in Downtown Raleigh made it throughSaturday, but the bottom fell out and Sunday was acomplete washout. As is always the case for theyounger festival (this was their 30th year) you couldfind fabulous art, handcrafted items of all types andcrafts. I hope you did something that made yousmile this past month like we always try to do.

One of the things we must do is support our stu-dents and future artists. Even if you missed the per-formances of the C.E. Jordan High School Band knowthat they hosted an evening of outstanding music atthe historic Carolina Theatre, to raise funds to Savethe Band. It is not too late, if you would like to helpout now, just go to www.jordanband.org.

Proceeds from this Gala allowed the band to make adent in the funds necessary to repair and purchasemuch needed instruments. They still need help fromour community in order to keep this band programalive and thriving. Perhaps I feel this one personal-ly having benefited from the wonderful experienceof being a Marching Hornet back in another century,but we must fight to keep music and the arts a partof the public school educational experience!

Speaking of the Carolina Theatre, not one but threeof the most influential bassists ever to wrap handsaround the neck of the instrument. SMV aka StanleyClarke, Marcus Miller and Victor Wooten thunderunto the stage June 8th bringing with them skillsthat will show the hand is quicker than the eye. Thatsound will have you joining in, dancing whereveryou are seated but without question, I will not be inmy seat long so I need to apologize to the personbehind me in advance.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members Walter Beckerand Donald Fagan of Steely Dan will bring their 2009U.S. tour to the DPAC on June 9. It’s Steely Dansounding like Steely Dan from their heyday in the70s, 80s and 90s giving their fans an opportunity tohear their classic catalogue of music live. Yes, theywill rock their signature collection of hits and fan-requested favorites from throughout their three-decades-plus discography, so some old memories

are bound to come back to you. I remember what Iwas doing when Steely Dan came into my life, but ifyou don’t tell on me then I will not tell onyou…deal?

Warning, this next show is just for adults. I’m talkingabout the Big Black Comedy Show hosted byMichael Colyear, featuring Tommy Davidson, DeRayDavis and Earthquake that will be delivering hilari-ous insights into life in America from a uniquelyafrocentric angle. It’s set to hit the stage at the DPACon June 13th. You will hear more than a colorfulword or two if history is any indication, so be pre-pared. It makes some uncomfortable when theyhear a racy joke, so just leave the little ones and thefolks that cannot take it at home.

Now this is something educational that can be fun aswell for the young ones in your household. The Artof Storytelling for ages 13-17; is where they get tolearn the history of hip-hop, lyrical break down,artist backgrounds and new school/old school com-parisons. It happens Thursdays, from 6 to 7 p.m. atthe Weaver Street Community Center, 3000 WeaverSt, Carrboro. Call 560-0155 and then be impressedwith what they come back with and how it mayimpact their lives and find their own lyrics thatwould make even Tupac and Biggie proud.

HYPE Youth Program, Hayti Youth for Progress &Enrichment, is another program that provides astimulating environment for youth, ages 13 to 17. Itis held every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the W.D. HillRecreation Center located at 1308 Fayetteville St inDurham. We all know a teenager that could reallybenefit from having the mentoring and positiveenvironment this program offers. Tell their folksabout it and see what it takes to be a part. You haveto agree, it is definitely preferable to watching tele-vision, surfing the net and texting mindlessly orworse yet getting in trouble just because they arebored and think no one cares what they are doing!

Believe it or not, there are always book readings forthe youth going on at our public libraries that are atno cost. You can check out Barnes and Noble andother booksellers to get their schedule if you justwant to attend their free readings. Children, teens,and adults should be able to find something intrigu-ing to read on any given day.

We could go on and on, for there are so many costeffective activities that can be done with your fami-lies, friends and mates. We stand behind our state-ments, just look around, use the resources that areavailable to you and you are sure to keep your selfentertained with a price tag you can handle.

Until next time,

Valerie & Karl50 SPECTACULAR June/July 2009

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