BLAC Magazine December/January 2023

THE BLAC INTERVIEW: ISIAH THOMAS

THE BUSINESS OF BUBBLY AND FAMILY

CREATING ART FOR SOCIAL CHANGE

WITH VISUAL ARTIST JONATHAN HARRIS

UNDERSTANDING GENTLE PARENTING

ARE BLACK FAMILIES READY?

WITH A RANGE UP TO 247 MILE ROAD.

Lead the way into the future with the Chevy Bolt EUV Premier. Its EPA-estimated range of 247 miles on a full charge1 gives you added confidence as you take on your next adventure.

1 EPA estimated. Actual range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age, loading, use and maintenance.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Three great reasons to visit Mississippi.

If you haven’t dined in Mississippi lately, the time is now. There’s a renaissance of flavor and culinary creativity happening in our state with restaurateurs like Bravo TV’s Top Chef Season 19 contestant, Nick Wallace, leading the way. Everything from traditional favorites to trendy tasting menus are on the table. So plan to come hungry. You’re sure to leave happy. VisitMississippi.org/Flavors.

I’ll Take Experience Over New

To quote Stevie Wonder’s classic, “Love’s in Need of Love Today”: “Good morn or evening, friends. Here’s your friendly announcer. I have serious news to pass on to everybody.”

During the end of last year, so much transition was taking place. Detroit’s relationship with high-end luxury increased, the art scene was exploding again, and local black businesses were enjoying their time in the spotlight. By the time this is published we will have gone through a vivacious holiday season and are now into the newness of the new year.

At BLAC there’s been an awakening of sorts. With a new year comes a new set of expectations and revelations. There’s that knowledge of who in the city has our back and who is set out to destroy our name. I’ve been very surprised and, at times, disappointed by the response to BLAC’s name as some kind of comeback or an introduction. Knowing just as many that want you to succeed are there to see and help you fail can be disheartening.

When you learn, mature and stretch, you hold tight to what’s real. Everything falls on the editor-in-chief. And while I celebrate the wins, the failures crush me harder. What I really love about this job, being in this position in this city, is its resilience. Sometimes we’re blamed, bad-mouthed, cursed out and quickly forgotten, but BLAC is still able to share stories of noted authors who have once written for its pages. We can share our stories of acupuncture health or artistic contemplation. Resilience and love for those of us that give love is what keeps us going.

The cover story of NBA champion Isiah Thomas and his continued relationship to the city and dedication to his family is an example of that growth and that maturity that comes with experience. Not only in our travel, food and cigar experiences but also in our hurt, our pain and our experiences of celebration we’re made into who we are and the leaders we have to be.

We have become stronger, more focused and informationdriven in our storytelling, and in servicing our advertisers and partners, especially through the work of our publisher Billy Strawter, Jr. and his team at Milo. We are still learning, still growing and maturing in 2023 and we’re going to keep doing what we do best.

Stay tuned, Detroit.

DARRALYNN HUTSON Editor in Chief

Photo Credit: Dedan Blackmon Photography

WHATEVER IS NEXT

For Grand Valley students, next is opportunity and innovation. Next is global, connecting and uniting us. It’s local, shaping the spaces in which we work and live. It’s a commitment to progress. Next is where minds are free to imagine what could be. At GVSU, next is now. And whatever’s next for you, we will help you get there.

Meet Our Contributors

Each issue would be impossible without the help of our freelance writers and creative contributors.

LAUREN WOODSON

Executive Director of the Detroit Fashion Community, Model and Lifestyle Influencer, Lauren M. Woodson (aka “Access Lauren”) is a native Detroiter and mother of three boys. Known as a master collaborator, Lauren has partnered with over 150 small businesses in support of their

EDDIE B. ALLEN JR

Detroit-based writer EDDIE B. ALLEN JR. is a published author, award-winning reporter and freelance journalist who has covered such national figures as President Bill Clinton and Rosa Parks. A graduate of Wayne State University with a B.A. in journalism and Africana Studies, his published contributions include the New York Times, Associated Press, ThomsonReuters, BET.com, Detroit Free Press, Orlando Weekly, Toledo Blade and the Philadelphia New

influencer driven marketing and branding. She is the owner of Lauren Mari Cosmetics. More recently, she has turned her community efforts to real estate and match making Detroiter’s with their dream homes as a licensed Realtor

LAURA D. GIBSON

Laura D. Gibson is a visual and lens-based media artist and independent curator in the city of Detroit. Gibson uses video, audio, and performance to dissect ways of maneuvering the city as a woman of color while documenting and examining the notions of intimacy

BOSWELL HARDWICK

Boswell was born in Detroit. He started painting at a very young age and attended CCS as a painting major. Boswell loved the immediacy of photography and shifted gears. Today he has a thriving business shooting for clients in the States and Europe.

Observer, among others. Eddie has taught urban literature and writing courses at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan and Wayne County Community College District in Detroit. His most recent book, Our Auntie Rosa (Penguin/ Random House, 2015), is a ghostwriting collaboration with the family of civil rights icon Rosa Parks, and he is independently producing his first biography, Low Road: The Life and Legacy of Donald Goines (St. Martin’s Press, 2004), as a feature film.

in reflecting on space and the idea of home. Gibson is the recipient of the Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Emerging Artist Award, Redmond Design Prize, and the”Pay-It-Forward” Grant from the Modern Ancient Brown Foundation. Gibson currently works as the Marketing Manager at Eastern Market Partnership in Detroit.

His business is based in Detroit but he can be often be found in Paris.

His large format photographs populate many important homes and collections.

WE'RE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR TALENTED CONTRIBUTORS! If you're an experienced writer, photographer or artist interested in working with BLAC, email your résumé and samples of your work to editor@BLACdetroit.com.

Denise Crittendon

“WHERE IT RAINS IN COLOR” a sci-fi novel

By Eddie B. Allen Jr.

“Lileala exhaled, and lassos of light, like spinning golden yarn, swooped around the Kclab weapons and hurled them into the murky pond. Before they could run, the light enveloped them. They screamed, but with each scream, the loops pulsated and tightened and whisked them higher. Whirling and somersaulting, their bodies became trapped inside luminescent ropes that held them thirty meters above the ground. They screeched, pleaded and cursed, but Lileala held on, humming and glowing, unfurling more and more bushels of energy.”

–Denise Crittendon, Where it Rains in Color

Newsrooms were literally worlds away from where Denise Crittendon imagined a gift for storytelling to take her. The founding editor of BLAC Detroit’s predecessor, African American Family Magazine, Crittendon also held posts at The Detroit News, the Kansas City Star, and she was named the first woman editor of the NAACP’s civil rights magazine, The Crisis.

But none of her award-winning journalistic achievements satisfied a deep, creative yearning to bring characters of supernatural breeding in paranormal adventures to the pages of a book. In Crittendon’s debut fantasy/sci-fi novel, Where it Rains in Color, she blends an active narrator’s imagination with an awareness of African history and the cultural impact it generates.

“I have been drawn to speculative fiction for most of my life,” she says.

A self-described “Trekky,” or fan of both the “Star Trek” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” Crittendon’s career at newspapers and magazines brought accolades that she says never replaced the thrill of giving life to her creative instincts in a manuscript.

Both long before and throughout her decades as a journalist, ideas and inspiration nudged Crittendon toward the ultimate goal of a book that sprung from her imagination, like those of her literary heroine Octavia Butler.

“All my life it seemed that I was having peculiar dreams, and I wasn’t in the dreams, but there were these characters,” Crittendon says. “I’d wake up and jot the ideas down and I’d go to work at the paper or magazine.”

Published in December by London-based Angry Robot Books, Where it Rains in Color chronicles the character Lileala’s struggle to preserve ancestral traditions while battling enemies who oppose the powers of melanin on the planet Swazembi. Largely a statement about Black women and their collective self-image, the novel contains messages of empowerment.

“The book is a way of our taking our power back by celebrating our skin tones,” says Crittendon. “My protagonist, Lileala, is not considered beautiful in spite of her being Black; she’s considered beautiful because of being Black.”

While she estimates there are about a dozen Black women who write speculative or sciencefiction, Crittendon saw a void in stories that explored the real-life issue of Eurocentric beauty standards and their effects on women of African descent throughout their lives.

The trappings of an Afrocentric world with few limits would become Where it Rains in Color’s setting.

“I said when I wrote my first novel I was going to create the most spectacular Black planet possible,” says Crittendon.

Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, chancellor or Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD), admires Crittendon’s professional work, which has included everything from developing WCCCD newsletters to instructing journalism and English classes.

“I’ve been impressed with Denise since her days with African American Family Magazine,” says Ivery. “Even back then, I noticed that she had a powerful command of the language. I had no idea she’d be writing fantasy one day, but it makes sense because her writing is so detailed and captivating.”

Crittendon says she’s “thrilled” to see her novel published.

“I believe that, as people of African descent, we need to control the narrative,” she says. “Are we going to go into the future allowing others to define who we are? Are we going to go into the future with the same stereotypes? How do we want to be seen?

“That’s the bottom line.”

LET’S GRAB A SMOKE

AT BYRD’S

JOHN R ROW BUILDING

Meet Steven Harris, owner of John R Row, the entire building that houses’ North ends’ newest Black-owned Rosemary restaurant and Byrd’s Cigar lounge. In partnership with Detroit’s own Chef Max Hardy, the duo celebrated one year in business in November of a new cool space to relax, smoke, socialize and dine will be the next “IT” spot for Detroiters and visitors alike.

Downstairs of the John R Row building housed Rosemary Restaurant and upstairs is a private cigar lounge called Byrds. Very fine cigars and all of the best spirits in a community that’s literally five minutes from everywhere in Detroit on John R in the North End.

CIGARS 101

What’s also great about this establishment is that it caters to both men and female cigar smokers and those that are brand new to smoking. Because while the atmosphere of cigar bars is chill and inviting smoking Cigars for newcomers can be intimidating. Before you can enjoy a cigar, Byrd’s offers opportunities for patrons to learn how to cut and light a cigar the right way.

John R Row is located at 9421 John R Street Detroit, MI 48202.

DESIGNER K. WALKER

OPENS STORE

Fashion designer, Kenneth Walker celebrated the opening of his flagship store, K. Walker Collective, on 4161 Cass Ave, in Midtown Detroit just blocks away from where he matriculated in Detroit School of the Arts, fueling his passion for apparel. While that area of the city is up and coming with many housing and commercial developments, this particular Midtown location holds sentimental reference to Walker being able to view his old high school from his flagship store’s front window.

Website: kwalker.co

Instagram: kwalkerco

BIRTH DETROIT, a Premiere Black-Owned Birthing Center

A group of Black women in Detroit hoping to make a positive impact on birthing Black babies, are opening Detroit’s first birthing center, and it just happens to be Black-owned and operated. Housed in the Petoskey-Otsego neighborhood in northwest Detroit, Birth Detroit Birth Center will be the city’s first stand-alone, pre-natal institution providing more options especially for expecting Black mothers.

Website: birthdetroit.com

Instagram @birthdetroit

Email: info@birthdetroit.com

K. Walker

“I LOVE BEING ABLE TO SEE MY HIGH SCHOOL RIGHT OUT OF MY STORE’S WINDOW. IT IS VERY NOSTALGIC.”

BLOCKS AWAY FROM SCHOOL WHERE HE DREAMT OF FASHION

Scientists Learn More And More About The Clitoris

The human clitoris seems to contain more than 10,000 nerve endings. Researchers this month are apparently the first to try counting the precise number of nerve fibers located in the pleasure-giving organ, using tissue samples taken from human volunteers. The findings surpass previous estimates.

By Darralynn Hutson

Here’s a bit of information that you can share with your male friends, lovers and counterparts. The human clitoris seems to contain more than 10,000 nerve endings. Researchers this month are apparently the first to try counting the precise number of nerve fibers located in the pleasure-giving organ, using tissue samples taken from human volunteers. The findings surpass previous estimates, which were based on studying other animals.

NEW RESEARCH

The new research was led by scientists from Oregon Health & Science University. They obtained samples of the clitoris from seven transgender patients who were undergoing a genderaffirming surgery. The process uses tissue from the clitoris and other parts of the body along with an implant, to sculpt together a functional penis.

The team specifically studied tissue from the dorsal nerves of the clitoris. These nerves run along the sides of the vagina just under the skin in a wishbone-like pattern and lead up to the clitoral glans, the only visible part of the clitoris. They’re thought to provide the primary source of sensation for the organ. The researchers looked at one half of the dorsal nerve, magnifying it 1,000

times under a microscope, and used software to help them count the individual nerve endings, or fibers, located in it.

On average, they counted 5,140 dorsal clitoral nerve fibers among their samples. And since the clitoris, like most body parts, is symmetrical, that ought to mean that the average dorsal nerve of the clitoris contains 10,281 fibers. Because there are other relevant nerves in the clitoris, the authors note, even this count is an underestimate of how many nerve endings the organ truly has. The team’s findings were presented last week at a joint scientific conference hosted by the Sexual Medicine Society of North America and the International Society for Sexual Medicine.

THE RESULTS

The results have yet to be formally published, though the authors say that their research is undergoing the peer-review process. And the findings are ultimately based on a very small sample size, so this estimate shouldn’t be taken as a definitive number for now. But as far as the authors know, theirs is the first research to actually try answering this question by studying humans. They note that a commonly cited figure of the clitoris having 8,000 nerve endings seems to originate from a single

study of cows—about 20% less than their clitoral count.

“Over half of the people in the world have a clitoris, yet it is only very recent that the clitoris is getting attention in media and medicine,” said lead author Blair Peters, an assistant professor of surgery and a plastic surgeon at OHSU’s Transgender Health Program.

“The history of the clitoris itself is filled with misinformation and erasure. The long touted ‘8,000 nerve fibers’ is a prime example of this. This number stood for many years based off of a line written in a book in the 1970s.”

And the authors of this research say that studying the clitoris more closely could yield many practical benefits in the future, from improving outcomes for transgender people who want to undergo gender-affirming surgery to helping cis women who have experienced problems reaching orgasm.

“To improve our understanding of clitoral sexual function and better treat clitoral and vulvar conditions, we need to take down misinformation and invest in the generation of new and accurate knowledge,” Peters said. “Specifically, this data will help inform techniques used for transmasculine people undergoing phalloplasty to best optimize sensation. It will also help improve our understanding of clitoral sexual responses. Notably, there

are reports of individuals who have suffered injuries to these nerves in surgery, reflecting the lack of education about the clitoris in medical education.”

Peters points out that his team’s findings wouldn’t have been possible without the help of his transgender patients. And he argues that this research highlights the value of providing the essential medical care that they need—a timely reminder given recent efforts by the Republican Party to strip away people’s access to that care.

“It should importantly be seen that this work came from trans people and is also for trans people,” he said. “In many areas, access to gender affirming care is being threatened or taken away by politicians. Banning this care is going to affect every single one of us, transgender or cisgender. We must all do our part to advocate for and increase access to care for all marginalized people.”

Peters and his team next hope to conduct similar research on the glans, or head, of the penis, which may help scientists better compare the two organs as well as help plastic surgeons better perform procedures that construct a clitoris for transfeminine patients.

The average dorsal nerve of the clitoris contains 10,281 fibers.

It’s Healing Touch

Have you ever wanted to try or learn about different forms of alternative medicine? There is a new herbal apothecary clinic that just opened up right in our backyard that specializes in East Asian medicine and practices acupuncture! Grain & Pestle is owned by Geoffrey Edwards and is located right here in our backyard in the center of the Avenue of Fashion. Geoffrey is an acupuncturist, herbalist and healing artist whose treatments include art therapy, acupuncture and herbal medicine.

-Geoffrey “Geo” Edwards

Grain & Pestle is an active convergence of the grains of life; creativity, healing, community and learning.”

Have you ever been curious about acupuncture or Chinese medicine? There is a new herbal apothecary clinic that just opened up right in our backyard. Grain & Pestle is owned by Geoffrey Edwards and is located in the center of the Avenue of Fashion. Geoffrey is an acupuncturist, herbalist and healing artist whose treatments include art therapy, acupuncture and herbal medicine. Having young children that endured complications from allergies and asthma was his major inspiration to deepen his studies in East Asian medicine. Not only is Grain & Pestle a clinic, but they also carry teas, art, pottery and more. The space is inviting and has a healing feel to it. It is covered with many exotic plants and herbs. It smells of healing essential oils. The shelves are full of apothecary teas and tinctures. On your first visit, you have your initial intake appointment. You go over your medical history and concerns. From there, George will know what treatment is best for you. I was able to experience 4 different treatments. They include acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion and gua sha.

The first treatment they offer is called “gua sha”, which is used in East Asian medicine to treat muscle tension and pain. There is a bit of pressure applied to certain areas of the body with the strokes, but it does not hurt. It reminded me of a deep tissue massage. This technique can also break down scar tissue and reduce inflammation in the body. A ceramic spoon-like tool was used to scrape my neck where all of the heavy tension was trapped. The goal of this treatment is to move energy around the body. You can immediately feel a release of stress.

The second treatment they offer is called “cupping”. There are two types of cupping; wet and dry. Grain & Pestle offers dry cupping. It is an ancient form of alternative medicine used to help with pain, blood flow, relaxation and inflammation. It was commonly used in Egypt, China and Middle Eastern cultures. Geo places several cups on the upper back to create suction. They stay on for a few minutes, and then are released. The suction sensation is quite interesting. The cups feel very tight, and pull on the skin. Afterward, it can leave marks and

sometimes bruising. Do not be alarmed, because it does go away within a few days. Keep that in mind if you have any special events or projects to work on that require exposing the area of your body that underwent the treatment.

The third treatment they offer is called “moxibustion”, which is another practice used in Chinese medicine. This is something completely different than anything you have ever experienced. This therapy involves the burning of mugwort leaves. Mugwort is an herb used to promote healing in the same way acupuncture does. The mugwort is strategically placed on acupuncture points and burned close to the skin’s surface. Geo uses a stick to burn it, then once it gets warm, he removes it from the skin. This practice is great for digestive problems. After undergoing this treatment, I followed up with my doctor. The doctor informed me that the digestive concern she had was no longer an issue. Impressive. Finally, they offer acupuncture, which is a major component of traditional Chinese medicine. It is used to treat pain, overall wellness and stress. This therapy was done laying down. Geo chooses different points on the body that he feels could benefit from the treatment. He inserts a needle into the layers of skin. The needles he uses are fine as a strand of hair and used once, then disposed of. The needles stay in for a few minutes.

This was my first time experiencing acupuncture. I was nervous at first, because I thought it would be painful. It was not painful at all. I could not even feel the needles. They were placed near my ankles, elbows, knees and forehead. About 7-9 needles were used. It was actually a relaxing experience. It was different, but felt natural. I would definitely do it again.

It is pretty amazing to have the option to experience alternative medicines that we typically are not exposed to. George is so passionate about his work, and enjoys educating people about it. The initial intake visit is $125. Visits after are $75. If you are interested in experiencing any of these treatments and all of the other amazing things that Grain & Pestle has to offer, make sure you visit them right here in Detroit!

Whether at home or on the go, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is with you every step of the way. With the largest network of the highest-quality doctors and hospitals in Michigan, Blue Cross gives you access to the care you need however, wherever and whenever you need it. Including our 24-Hour Nurse Line, online visits, mental health support, urgent care and more. So, you’re covered anytime, anywhere. We’re here for it all and always will be.

Detroit Visual Artist Jonathan Harris On Doing Something Innovative

by Laura Gibson

This time last year’ visual artist Jonathan Harris was moved to create an image that reflected his state of mind, ‘Critical Race Theory,’ went viral propelling his work to international eyes. Now reaping the success; Harris is selling and creating new work, curating others in a partnered Pontiac gallery and envisioning a future that embodies both.

“What you have to understand is that around this time (2021) [ the conversation around] ‘Critical Race Theory’ was literally just everywhere. Stay-at-home-[White] moms would protest and rally against ‘Critical Race Theory’ because they didn’t have a job; (not) like the Black parents. They couldn’t even go through this stuff because they were working two or three jobs.” explains Harris. “So that’s how they (Moms) were able to bring a lot of noise and get things (removed from schools) to change. That privilege alone, allowed the whole movement {Critical Race Theory-controversy} to start. I wanted to do something about it; as an artist; try to figure out how to change something that I really care about.”

On his journey to continue creating artwork that made social change, Harris was inspired by an early conversation with Detroit gallery owner (Harper Galleries located on 173 E. Grand Blvd in Detroit) & Co-founder, Detroit artist collective, Detroit Fine Arts Breakfast Club, Henry Harper. “You got to do something that’s innovative.”

Motivated by Detroit, Harris produces new pieces of artwork at his studio in Corktown; sharing portraits of Black people that speak to his mindset.“I just wanted to create something in my work to reflect how I felt. I really care about black people, our history. and if that’s what I’m called to do, absolutely, I do.”

Harris took a bold step as an independent artist and recently opened a gallery art space, to bridge the affluent county Oakland with the talent of Detroit’s a visual artist; Gallery 46 is located at N. Saginaw St. in Pontiac. “I started as an artist, I know artists, I know how it feels….It’s kind of hard,” Harris admits. “How much time do you really have to put towards basically other people’s dreams? I got Gallery 46 for other artists to show their work. I want to do more. I haven’t done as much as I wanted to but I want to do more.”

Harris is currently producing a holiday exhibition at Gallery 46 in association with the Detroit Fine Arts Breakfast Club. To purchase fine art prints of “Critical Race Theory and to learn more about Jon Harris, visit jonathanharrisart.bigcartel.com.

Lens-based media artist and independent curator, Laura D. Gibson curated and conducted the interview for this profile. Gibson’s work focuses on her familial ties to the city in relation to memory, storytelling, space and displacement. She uses video, audio, and performance to dissect ways of maneuvering the city as a woman of color while documenting and examining the notions of intimacy in reflecting on space and the idea of home.

October 2, 2022 - January 22, 2023

Tickets at dia.org

Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853–1890).

1889. Oil on canvas; 29 x 36 5/8 in. (73.6 x 92.3 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Collection, 1926.417. Van Gogh in America is organized by the Detroit Institute of Arts and is part of the Bonnie Ann Larson Modern European Artists Series.

Lead support is generously provided by the Founders Junior Council, The J. Addison and Marion M. Bartush Family Foundation, Bank of America, Cadillac, and Nancy and Sean Cotton.

Major support is provided by the William H. and Patricia M. Smith Family, Kenwal Steel, Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg, Nicole and Stephen Eisenberg, Alex Erdeljan, James and Sally Scapa Foundation, Marjorie and Maxwell Jospey Foundation, Spencer & Myrna Partrich, Friends of Art & Flowers, Joanne Danto, Arnold Weingarden & Jennifer Danto Shore, Huntington, Ford Motor Company Fund, DTE Energy Foundation, Jennifer Adderley, and The Family of Christopher R.W.D. Stroh.

Additional support is provided by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Wells Fargo, Gilbert Family Foundation, Nancy S. Williams Trust and executor, Sharon Backstrom, and Aaron and Carolynn Frankel.

This exhibition is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, as part of the Dutch Culture USA program by the Consulate General of the Netherlands in New York, and the European Paintings Council.

Funding is also provided by Mrs. William Clay Ford, Mr. and Mrs. John W. Ingle, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. John W. Ingle III, Mr. and Mrs. John M. Sullivan, Jr., Eleanor and Frederick Ford, and Kathleen and Robert Rosowski.

The exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities. Major funding for the exhibition catalogue is generously provided by Jo Elyn and George M. Nyman.

The Bedroom (detail),

Detroit’s Own RASHAUN RUCKER Gets First Solo Exhibit at MOCAD In Tribute To The Church

By Darralynn Hutson

Born and raised in the American South, Rucker reminisces on the church as a space for communal gathering, familial intimacy, and identity development.

Relief From the Heat presents Detroit-based artist Rashaun Rucker’s ruminations on intergenerational identity and kinship sustained within the Black Church. Born and raised in the American South, Rucker reminisces on the church as a space for communal gathering, familial intimacy, and identity development. Nationally recognized for his printmaking and draftsman work, this exhibition is a return to Rucker’s roots as a photojournalist, the career that brought him to the Midwest via a job at the Detroit Free

Press. Reflecting on his journey as a creative, Rucker expands the medium of documentary photography and drawing to present an installation of brand new multi medium works.

Relief From the Heat on exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit in partnership with the International Studio & Curatorial Program and is a nod to the aunties, uncles, and cousins who created a village that grew Rucker into the artist he is today.

“It’s (Relief From the Heat) about honoring people who helped you along the way. Somebody asked me, what’s going to be the biggest joy, there’s no cash, I was like, really watching my grandmother walking into a museum and seeing herself,” says Rucker. “I want to put them on a pedestal that they rightly deserve.”

Rucker’s Background

Rashaun Rucker is a product of North Carolina Central University and Marygrove College. He makes photographs, prints, and drawings and has won over 40 national and state awards. His work has been featured in HBO’s Random Acts of Flyness and the film Native Son. He was named a Sustainable Arts Foundation awardee in 2020 and awarded a prestigious International Studio & Curatorial Program (ISCP) residency and a Mellon residency

at the University of Michigan Institute of Humanities in 2021.

“Drawing is and always will be my first love. But when I was in college, I went to school at a small HBCU in Durham, North Carolina, I had a professor who was very much like if you’re going to try to be a successful black artist, you got to be a boy scout knife, you got to know how to like go in and out of all types of mediums,” remembers Rucker. “That’s why I work in so many mediums because he was like

be impactful.

think the only reference people have ever seen a church fan is a handheld thing. And like I said, I wanted to show black people on a larger scale, like, larger then life.

you need that to get to the apex of where you want to be. So I never really locked in on one thing. And now when I have shows, usually every show is different.”

Relief From the Heat on exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit in partnership with the International Studio & Curatorial Program. This exhibition is supported by the International Studio & Curatorial Program and the Kettering Family Foundation with additional support provided by M Contemporary Art.

~ RaShaun Rucker ~

“My mom always tells me, “Write down the vision and make it plain”. So I do believe in like, kind of drawing things and kind of manifesting, like, let me put action into it. So I was drawing these fans. I thought the scale would

I

Vamos a Panama

A Nation of Rich Food, Culture, and History

By: Frenchie Davis

You Know what I regret? I regret history lessons in school. They never teach you the good stuff. History as a child would have been so much better if we could have just teleported to wherever they were teaching us about. In high school I remember learning about President Jimmy Carter and the US treaty for the Panama Canal but that lesson pales in comparison to the story that the Panamanians share. The version I learned was boring and nowhere near the equivalent of taking a boat tour by the natives of Panama.

Those history lessons never said anything about all the beautiful beaches, the delectable food, the spicy music, the three hour drive to Colon and the low cost of living. Panama is not just a country, it’s a lifestyle you can sink your teeth into. Panama will always be at the top of my visiting list, I hope you,ll add it to yours.

Where to rest your spirit 1

Ordinarily, I go the local route. I love to explore the local Airbnbs to live like the natives live, however, after meeting some friends for drinks at the W hotel (“W”- stands for WINNING, for me) I had to change course. The rooms are super spacious, colorful, social media worthy, make sure you get a room with the tub in the suite, you’ll want to have an entire self-care moment. There are gorgeous panoramic views, a lounge full of activities with a rooftop pool you won’t want to leave. The hotel is centrally located near the mall and has plenty of shops. Just don’t get in any over-spending trouble and blame it on me. This is definitely a place to rest your spirit.

Where to feed your soul

Panama has an electric skyline. The scenery, cobblestone sidewalks really comes to life as the sun begins to set. Casco Viejo is where you want to be. It’s all about the rich history and culture of Panama. Since food is culture, you will fein for this culture. Panama is definitely one of my favorite places to eat in the world. Start your tastebuds off right with LazoTea, then there’s Capital Bistro which is all about the skyline directly over the water. Wear clothing with a loose waistband or flowing dress as you continue your food journey to Numen, Tantalo or Inedito with a live DJ. Definitely make a stop at Azahar. It’s another beautiful experience with ambiance and great food. Remember you’re on the Panama Canal take advantage of the fishermen and their fresh catches of the day. Journey to Tobago Island (yes, Trinidad doesn’t have the only Tobago) The food vendors around the beach will give you life! I really appreciate how a country like Panama doesn’t undermine its amazing flavors for the sake of western tourists. Every morsel of every bite will stick to your ribs. Thank me later!

2 3

Where to make memories

You really should embrace the natural beauty of Panama. The rooftop bars and restaurants are certainly where the memories begin but the beaches and canal tours is where you wish the memories would never end. Tobago Island or should I say Island of the Flowers is a great place to sunbathe and frolic in the waters. You’ll definitely have to book yourself for the jungle tours. I used Barefoot Panama. They are a very reliable company. They pick you up form most hotels and they really understand the rich history of Panama. Like I said, it’s nothing your teacher ever taught you. They make history fun and engaging. Better yet, they turn history into a party. You’ll visit Monkey Island, Indian village and Lake Gutan. The Guna Yala tour includes some amazing beaches and starfish pools and lunch is included. Like I said, they really take care of you. Their tours have something for everyone. Speaking of something for everyone, make sure you and your friends/family do the catamaran boat ride. Me and my friends had an absolute blast. The perfect picture moment sailing as the wind blows through your hair, way better than a Beyonce fan. The boat rests out in the Pacific ocean as you take some playtime to eat or snorkel and play with the water floaties. The sun sets as you make your way back to the dock and you’re at peace with a celebratory grin on your face. There is so much more to Panama, it is one of the most recognized expat locations for Americans and I certainly get why. Now it’s your turn to explore! Vamos a Panama!

Our mission is to teach people to by introducing more plant based foods into every day living

Eat to live

The Detroit Fashion Community Board Pinning Ceremony Was

‘A Flair To Remember’

~ By Lauren Mari ~

On January 4, 2023 over 100 Detroit fashion, lifestyle, and beauty entrepreneurs and business owners joined The DFC to officially induct and ceremoniously pin their new Board of Directors.

The Detroit Fashion Community’s 2023 Board Pinning Ceremony was fashionably staged at ‘A Flair To Remember’ in Clinton Township, MI. by event specialist and the evening’s venue sponsor, Shameka McHenry Events.

On January 4, 2023 over 100 Detroit fashion, lifestyle, and beauty entrepreneurs and business owners joined The DFC to officially induct and ceremoniously pin their new Board of Directors.

FOUNDER: Latrice Delgado-Macon

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Lauren M. Woodson

CO-DIRECTOR: Evan Hazlett

SECRETARY: Sabrina Athena

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP: April Sutton-Dudley

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING: Monika Marie

DIRECTOR OF EVENT: Kevin Maples

DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH: Milton Putman

DIRECTOR OF SPONSORSHIP: Dawn Patterson

The lavish ceremony was hosted by The Voice of Detroit, 97.9 WJLB host, Dr. Darrius. Patrons of the event helped to make DFC’s first fundraising effort of the year a huge success. Proceeds benefited the DFC mission to enrich the community with resources to thrive in any fashion sector that speaks to their inner muse.

Immediately following the DFC Board Pinning Ceremony, the first monthly “DFC Connects” networking event kicked off with a live band performance by KP Entertainment, who kept the evening’s vibe at a stylish level. Attendees were encouraged to mix, mingle, and network with the fashion and small business community over complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a curated cocktail experience provided by Mobil Mixers.

The final chic detail was the generous gifting sponsored by Dior and Macy’s. Can we have a moment to recognize the best dressed of the day?

Executive Director: Lauren M. Woodson photo by @lajuan_spears_imagery

Que Jewelz, Outfit: Only One Boutique, Boots: Yoki, Photo by: Dedan Photography

Model: April Sutton-Dudley

Gold Jacket: Touch Me Simply

Gold Shirt: White House Black Market

Gold Liquid Leather Pants: Simply

Name: Monika Marie

Dress: Monika Marie Customs

Name: Daisha McKenzie

Suit: Angeles Fashion

Purse: Target Boots: Akira

Photo by: Dedan Photography

Name: Tracey Martin

Poncho: Dolce & Gabbana

Dress: Forever 21 Boots: Akira

Handbag: Kurt Geiger

Name: Sabrina Athena

Dress: Rags to Riches Consignment

Best Exercises for Beginners TO

GET ACTIVE FROM BLACK FITNESS

INFLUENCERS

By Darralynn Hutson

Whether the goal is to drop pounds, improve your health or build muscle, we all have to take the first step and get started at getting active.

For those who live a mostly inactive lifestyle, it can be hard, sometimes painful and even damaging in some cases to jump right into a gym routine or an intense fitness regime; even with the best intentions. Whether the goal is to drop pounds, improve your health or build muscle, we all have to take the first step and get started at getting active.

If you got the green light to get moving, start off slow. Beginners should work out at their own pace and gradually increase intensity once they get the hang of a routine.

Here are our favorite ways to get active moving towards a healthier lifestyle from Black fitness and wellness influencers that we follow on instagram.

Most of us walk every day and know that walking is good for us so walk more every day, simple right. Add more walking in your daily schedule and increase the time and distance that you walk every week.

Walking increases your heart rate and helps with fat loss and calorie burning. It also helps with oxygen consumption, lung capacity and cardiovascular endurance. Interval walking, which is walking at a lower intensity for a few minutes, followed by a higher intensity-then going back down-has become very popular.

SWIMMING AND WATER AEROBICS TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Swimming and water fitness is a great way to exercise for those who are injured, too obese or overweight to walk or use machines, the elderly and people with joint problems. The water provides some buoyancy. Exercises performed in water relieve stress on the joints and can be really enjoyable. It’s a full-body workout, too. If you enjoy swimming, try committing to it weekly to help build endurance.

YOGA AND CHAIR YOGA TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Yoga helps with flexibility, core strengthening, improving breathing and relieving stress. It deals with a lot of stretching and isometric holds that can help strengthen your muscles. If yoga is a bit difficult for you, some organizations offers chair yoga classes.

WALKING EXERCISE TIPS FOR BEGINNERS PLANKING

Planking is an isometric-holds exercise, which means that it builds strength by having you hold up your own body or hold a position for a certain amount of time. In planking, the person holds a position similar to a plank of wood, hence the name. It’s performed on the floor, holding your body off the ground and straight using your forearms and toes while engaging your core by tightening the abdominal muscles.

Starting with a 5-10 second hold and working your way up to 45-60 second repetitions will make tremendous effects on the body.

Once you learn, you’ll never forget. So how about putting those cycling skills to good use? DeLeon suggests riding for at least 30 minutes per day, three to seven days per week, to see maximum results. Cycling reduces stress, improves lung capacity, strengthens leg muscles, improves endurance and reduces body fat.

Squats strengthen glutes, hamstrings, calves, quadriceps and even your core. To perform a squat properly feet must be shoulder-width apart, toes facing forward and heels flat on the ground. Your knees and thighs should go down to a 90-degree angle. If a regular squat is too difficult placing a chair behind you for support. With this squat you’re squatting over the chair, but never touching it. Beginners should do 1-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

If you already dance for pleasure, then dancing may not even feel like an exercise. DeLeon says at Detroit Medical Center, they “usually recommend dancing as a leisure activity to do for fun.” And when it comes to fun, there’s no time limit. “If you like dancing, do it for as much as you can,” he says. Aside from the fun, dancing is a total body workout.

ARE BLACK FAMILIES READY FOR “Gentle Parenting?”

BY CATHY SOLIVAR

With the generational trauma and a normalized pattern of being physical to children accustomed to households especially in Black Communities, the talk about gentle parenting style is now being discovered by parents in different communities even in Black families.

With the generational trauma being largely recognized in Black communities, conversation about a form of parenting called “gentle parenting” is starting to take place by parents in Black households. But are Black Families ready for this new gentle parenting style?

Mercedes Samudio, a Black licensed clinical social worker and author of Shame-Proof Parenting has a take on this parenting style. As defined by Samudio, gentle parenting is “bringing awareness to the parenting strategies that you’re using and how those strategies are supporting the development of your child as the relationship you have with your child.”

Gentle Parenting

Moreover, Samudio emphasized that gentle parenting is not merely about a different skill or method in responding to your child, such as putting down the severity of former child-rearing practices that you are typically accustomed to, But gentle parenting, “asks parents to be gentle with themselves as well as with their children.”

By doing so, this will encourage parents to see their relationship with self and their child as the foundation for many parenting decisions. But with the total opposite of gentle parenting to the traditional parenting style that Black families are used to, are Black families ready for Gentle Parenting?

PRACTICE

PARENTING. AND IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START, MAKE A DECLARATION THAT YOU WILL WORK ON PRACTICING THE STRATEGIES YOU WILL LEARN. GENTLE PARENTING IS A PROCESS THAT REQUIRES PRACTICE, PATIENCE, AND GRACE WITH YOUR CHILD AND YOURSELF, MOST OF ALL. YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES. RUPTURES WILL HAPPEN. BUT EMBEDDED IN MANY GENTLE PARENTING IDEAS

Parenting

Black Parenting Stereotypes

Well the answer is YES! Samudio says, “Without a doubt, Black parents are ready for this style of parenting.” Who this style of parenting is intended for is the only thing that’s inaccurate, since gentle parenting and related practices are typically marketed toward White, cisgender, heterosexual, two-parent household families, many Black families feel they are incompatible with how they raise their children.

Samudio continued by sharing that, contrary to media stereotypes of Black parents, they have actually been practicing gentle parenting. When it comes to preparing their children for life in the real world, black parents are always having conversations with them.

Therefore, “So not only are Black parents ready for gentle parenting, it’s a practice that was designed to support Black parenting (although it may not be marketed or discussed as such).” Furthermore, Samudio advised that as parents don’t hesitate to start on the things that you only know and admit to yourself that you will learn how to work this things out.

“START WITH WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT THE

OF GENTLE

IS THE NOTION THAT FAILING IS PART OF THE LEARNING PROCESS.”

Mercedes Samudio, a Black licensed clinical social worker and author of Shame-Proof

ISIAH THOMAS

IS BUILDING A FAMILYINSPIRED BRAND

The NBA Hall of Famer and two-time champion with the Detroit Pistons, Isiah Thomas spoke to BLAC’s editor-in-chief about the moves he’s making in growing his family-owned and family-motivated business, Isiah International.

Isiah Thomas is on a roll. Through his company, Isiah International Inc, he has emerged as an international business executive and investor. Thomas was recently back in town to celebrate a new partnership with the Pistons organization and the launch of his new champagne brand, Cheurlin. BLAC found that no matter where Thomas is at, his mind is never far from his family.

BLAC: You are all about family. How do your do you uplift yours?

Isiah Thomas: I was the first generation to make some kind of money and what I did was put all my money back into the family, in terms of education,” says Thomas. “Now, when our family members graduate from college, they are required to come back to work at the firm for six months to a year, to help them pay off their student loans and if they like what they’re doing, they get to stay.”

BLAC: Why go into the champagne business?

Isiah Thomas: I started out in popcorn and I had a popcorn business called Indiana Popcorn and ended up selling that, and was looking for my next venture to go into. (George) Clooney had just made tequila and he had Clooney & Friends, so I looked into the tequila space, and I looked into the wine and the vodka space, but frankly there was a new vodka, tequila and wine that came out every month. So I looked into the champagne space and realized that a new champagne hadn’t hit the market in almost 50 years. When you look at champagne, because people always want the best, there are three presses of the grape. Most of the champagnes that were coming to the United States were second and third press. We are the highest value brand of the first grape press on the market.

BLAC: How’s business?

Isiah Thomas: Business has been good. We are slowly gaining traction by word of mouth. We own all of our businesses. I own 100 percent of the champagne company. Very rarely do I endorse. I like to own. We’re a family-owned firm and how I decide what I’m going to do next is due to something that my econ teacher told me back in high school – “Invest in things that you like.” So I find things that I’m passionate about or have some interest in.

BLAC: Do you realize the impact that you’ve made on the city of Detroit?

Isiah Thomas: I’ve said this before. I don’t get treated anywhere in the world better than I’m treated in Detroit. I feel like I’m everybody’s cousin or brother. I get invited to everyone’s house for dinner. And it’s not a fan or an autograph thing; it really is like I’m a family member. It’s a different kind of feeling. I’m part of everyone’s family.

We are the official champagne of the Detroit Pistons organization, of course. It’s a give-back, but it’s also a reminder of the success that we’ve had. When you want to celebrate, of course, you want to celebrate with champagne, so the partnership to be inside the arena with the Pistons means that every day there is a reminder, that every game there is a reminder of that Cheurlin with Isiah to celebrate with you. It lets me in a small way stay connected to the team and stay connected to the city.

BLAC: In response to the NBA’s Kyrie Irving punishment, what was it like when you were playing ball, regarding voicing your opinions on social justice issues?

Isiah Thomas: You have to remember that I came out of the 60’s and 70’s when so much activism was strong in sports. I was a part of that generation that grew up in the 60’s, so I follow the philosophy of speaking up and speaking out. When I first came to Detroit we partnered up with Mayor Coleman Young on the “No Crime Day,” and when Nelson Mandela was first released from prison the first city that he came to was Detroit, and he put on a Detroit Pistons hat and jacket because of the activism that we were partaking in, not only as athletes, but as citizens. We are always talking about race, class and injustice. Those are some of the things that the Pistons were known for back in those days. Even though we were winning championships, our activism off the court was truly what we were known for.

BLAC: What do we have to look forward to with the company in 2023?

Isiah Thomas: We have so much to look forward to in 2023, in the champagne space. We onboarded global hotel chains’ partnerships, Africa, Canada, bringing the champagne into the market and in the Caribbean.

On the firm side, in the green space, my company, Green, operates as a vegetation utility company. You may remember when I was here in Detroit I used to do commercials for Detroit Edison; Now I own Green and it operates in Louisiana, Texas and Arkansas. When the lights go out we have the bucket trucks that carry the men and tools to work with the cables to get the lights turned back on in those communities. Because I work in businesses that I’m passionate about I was learning about vegetation and utilities when I did commercials for Edison.

Owned by Isiah Thomas, the Largest American and Black-Owned champagne company in the world.

HEALTHY MOMS. STRONG BABIES.

Every baby deserves the best possible start. We are fighting for the health of moms and babies because it makes the future brighter for us all.

WEDDED BLISS

The Wedding of Simone Toney & Robert Nunoo

By DARRALYNN HUTSON

WWedded Bliss: Devin and Simone Lewis Love is a universal language that we all define on our own terms. When we add the super ingredient of our blackness, love can take on a unique power shared through our ancestral lineage rich with traditions and customs passed through generations, and shaped by our own individual views on life. Here at BLAC, we celebrate Black love in a series called ‘BLAC Wedded Bliss’ highlighting Detroit’s most recent representations of Black love on their wedding day. Shar D. Bufkin helps us celebrate Black love. BLAC Wedded Bliss allows us to dream and celebrate Black love.

If there’s one thing Linen Rental & Event Execution specialist Shar D. Bufkin knows well, it’s the importance of elegance. Whether it’s planning the perfect ceremony, creating a safe space for love to commit, or perfecting the location for a couple to wed, elegance matters. Shar first met fellow florist designer Amber Kirkland from the Velvet Touch Events years ago when both were creating magical moments, when they decided to work together. “In fact, Shar was able to go above and beyond the original space and create an intimate, family celebration with extra draping, which was always my goal,” says Lorri Lewis, The DirectHer Wedding Planner, “this was a wedding celebration “I don’t believe that the atmosphere would have been what it was without Shar’s expertise, and the pictures definitely would not have turned out as well either; even the staff at the hotel and photographer reiterated the same thought.”

COOKING WITH QUE’S Vegan Spicy Black Eyed Peas & Rice For Good Luck

This Vegan take on Spicy Black Eyed Peas & Rice is just as hearty and flavorful as ever, so grab your ingredients and try this recipe and let me know when you get some of that good luck that’s coming to you.

My family, traditionally from way back, makes Black Eyed Peas and Greens every New Years day. It was said to bring good luck to the people in the house that they where made. It would smell up the kitchen all day and we’d eat bowls full for lunch and then as a side at dinner.

Because our food and traditions come from the South; there is alwayssssss meat thrown in to add flavor; This Spicy Black Eyed Peas & Rice recipe adds that flavor without the meat.

I wanted to make this Spicy Black Eyed Peas & Rice without the stuff that I don’t eat anymore. If you want to throw some meat in there, make it your own but make sure you get that good luck for 2023. This Vegan take on Spicy Black Eyed Peas & Rice is just as hearty and flavorful as ever, so grab your ingredients and try this recipe and let me know when you get some of that good luck that’s coming to you.

Spicy Black Eyed Peas and Rice

PREP TIME: 30 min. | COOK TIME: 40 min.

SERVINGS: 4

INGREDIENTS:

2 Bags Frozen Black Eyed Peas or 1 bag of Dry Black Eyed Peas (follow cooking instructions on bag)

1 stalk Celery

1.2 Onion Red Sliced or Whole

1 tsp Smoked Paprika

2 tsp White Pepper

4 Cloves Garlic

1/2 Cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing (Brown, Thick)

1 tsp Sea Salt or Pepper Blend

1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper (or more to taste)

INGREDIENTS FOR CHA CHA:

1 lb Okra Sliced

1 Whole Tomato Diced

1 stalk Celery Diced

1/4 Cup Water

1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper

1/4 Cup Vinegar

2 Cloves Garlic

White or Brown Rice (read the package for cooking instructions)

INSTRUCTIONS

• Add Beans to a Pot

• Add water to the pot to cover the beans (half over)

• Add all dry ingredients to Beans and let boil

• Begin to Cook your Rice (Beans and Rice could take the same time to cook, sooooooo just cook them both now)

LET’S MAKE CHA CHA

• Dice your Onion, Tomato, Celery & Garlic

• Heat a pan (medium heat) and add garlic, onions and okra.

• Cook for about 4 minutes, you are going to cook til the onions start getting a little translucent, if you think I needs moisture, add a small amount of water.

• Add seasonings and vinegar , turn fire down to a low heat

• Add water slowly and as it evaporates keep adding slowing til the cup is empty

• It’s going to make your veggies taste a bit pickled

Cooking Que's with Crispy Panko-Crusted Chicken

Cooking with Que’s Crispy panko-crusted chicken recipe uses pounded chicken breasts making it quick and easy to cook. Make these Crispy Panko chicken: crispy, juicy, and ultra-flavorful chicken that’s ready in just 30 minutes!

This recipe is for all the saints that think that to get a crispy golden crust requires a deep fry. Cooking with Que’s Crispy panko-crusted chicken recipe uses pounded chicken breasts making it quick and easy to cook. Make these Crispy Panko chicken: crispy, juicy, and ultra-flavorful chicken that’s ready in just 30 minutes!

You can use crushed, crisp rice cereal squares instead of panko crumbs for a gluten-free version!

INGREDIENTS

6 Breasts Halves chicken

3 Flaxseed eggs or Just Egg

1 1/2 Cups Flour

2 Cups Panko Bread Crumbs

1 Cup Cornflake Crumbs

1 1./2 tbsp Garlic powder

2 tbsp parsley flakes

1/2 tbsp salt

1/2 tbsp pepper

1/2 tsp paprika saltless pepper blend

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness.

3. In a second dish combine Panko Bread Crumbs, cornflake crumbs, paprika, parsley, garlic powder & pepper blend

4. Dip chicken in flour first and then egg mixture and finally in the crumb mix pressing the crumbs to adhere.lace on a pan sprayed with cooking spray.

5. Spray the top of the chicken with cooking spray.

6. Bake at 375°F for 30-35 min or until juices run clear.