UniverSoul Circus Founder
CEDRIC WALKER HE RAN AWAY WITH THE CIRCUS
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IN THIS ISSUE Vol. II, Issue II
Ballin’ Out Briefly Classified/Local Business Commentary Cover Story Did U Know? Entertainment FEATURES Black History Carolina Theatre Cedric Walker St. Croix Publisher’s Desk Health & Beauty Lifestyles News Briefs Out & About Sports This is Your Life Travel ZIEN
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Cover Photo: Greg Coats Cover Design: Anthony Davis
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COMMENTARY
From The Publisher’s Desk... BLACK HISTORY MONTH A TIMELY REMINDER OF ALL OF OUR PASTS, OUR SHARED HISTORY So, why do we need a Black History Month?
facts and proclaim, case closed, as if that is the extent of black history.
The answer is simple: We shouldn’t.
But if the American experiment has taught us anything, it is that history is more than just a few select individual biographies. Globally, nationally and in every neighborhood, it is the ongoing narrative of nations, communities and peoples.
Ideally, we wouldn’t. And the oft-repeated conclusion from the most diehard critics of the observance is simple: We don’t. But perhaps a look at the history of Black History Month helps explain why the observance continues to serve a legitimate purpose. Black History Month wasn’t born as Black History Month. At its inception, it was a mere seven days — Negro History Week, the brainchild of pioneer historian Carter G. Woodson. Woodson introduced the observance in 1926. It was a time when mainstream academia turned a determined blind eye toward the subject of black history in America. And African Americans endured the pain of glaring racial stereotypes, which affected not only their image in others’ eyes but, in many cases, their view of themselves. For Woodson, there was far too much at stake to let the matter rest. There was the matter of academic integrity, for one thing. But from Woodson’s point of view, it was also a matter of respect, worth and survival. For Woodson, history served as evidence in the court of world opinion. “If you are unable to demonstrate to the world that you have this record, the world will say to you ‘You are not worthy to enjoy the blessings of democracy or anything else.’” The tragedy is that all too often black Americans had heard that verdict pronounced again and again. Fast forward to the 21st century…Barack Obama is president. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. is remembered on his own federal holiday. There are those who cite these
One of the problems may be the widespread view, held by many, that this particular narrative is exclusively by, for and about African Americans. Nothing could be further from the truth. Clayton Hardiman writes that Black history is not exclusively for black people, any more than a history course on the Founding Fathers would be exclusively for white males. When it comes to the African-American experience, every American — and every human, for that matter — stands to benefit from an informed awareness. We all learn from each other’s stories. Black history — like the history of other groups — is too important to be shunted aside into its own segregated neighborhood. The truth is this: Black history is American history, and vice versa. It is world history as well. The conclusion is clear: Black History Month, like the observance of all history, should come 12 months a year. But until it does, perhaps one designated month serves as a timely reminder of how all of us should remember and celebrate our shared past.
Sincerely,
Phyllis Coley Phyllis Coley CEO/Publisher
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COMMENTARY
BALLOTS VERSUS THE BILLIONS POISONING ELECTIONS By Dr. William J. Barber II and Bob Hall The nation’s first Republican president explained what democracy ought to be: a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. But Abraham Lincoln’s vision will remain a distant mirage if a money-drenched elections system devalues individual American’s votes by auctioning off legislative seats, governors and judges to the highest bidder. January is an ideal time to reflect on threats to our democratic republic’s core principles. We celebrate a holiday honoring Martin Luther King Jr., whose bold crusade with an army of determined citizens won the 1965 Voting Rights Act, as dramatized in the film “Selma.” The vote is the great equalizer, a tool for self respect and community empowerment. “Give us the ballot,” King said in 1957, “and we will no longer plead to the federal government for passage of an anti-lynching law; we will by the
power of our vote write the law on the statute books of the South and bring an end to the dastardly acts of the hooded perpetrators of violence.” The gains achieved with the Voting Rights Act are now under attack by new “hooded perpetrators” of “dastardly acts.” Billions of dollars spent on deceptive political ads, much of it from mystery donors, are poisoning our elections and fostering a new type of extremism and intolerance that benefits only the super-wealthy. That brings us to another event that took place in January, the fifth anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s January 21, 2010, ruling, Citizens United v. FEC. In a 5-to4 decision, the court effectively said the super-rich could use corporations and front groups to spend unlimited money on political ads. Purchased speech became free speech, corporations became people. In another 5-to-4 decision, Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court further strengthened the power of big money by eviscerating the Voting Rights Act and opening the door to new forms of voter suppression affecting people of color and the poor. Because of these court decisions, we are in a new phase of the longstanding struggle between political participation for the many versus rule by the
wealthy elite. That struggle is playing out in North Carolina today. A new brand of extremists came to power here soon after the Citizens United decision, thanks largely to an avalanche of nasty political ads financed by a handful of wealthy ultra-conservatives and their corporations. In our view, the new majority in the NC legislature hijacked Lincoln’s Republican Party and immediately began helping the greedy at the expense of the needy. They slashed unemployment benefits, killed the earned income-tax credit for working families, refused Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands, cut corporate taxes, gutted health and safety protections, cut per-pupil spending for education and shifted public money to private academies. They also redrew legislative district lines to isolate and minimize the power of black voters. Then, in the weeks immediately following the Shelby decision, they jammed a host of voter restrictions into one bill that also cut restrictions on political donations. We call it the “Monster Law” because of its sweeping scope and because it is the reincarnation of the Jim Crow monster.
by the NC NAACP with a broad coalition of supporters. We are in court challenging the Monster Law and race-based redistricting plan. We’re organizing voter engagement projects across North Carolina to promote public policies that serve “the good of the whole,” as our state constitution mandates. We invite everyone to join us in Raleigh on Valentine’s Day for the Moral March for Love and Justice. Rather than the politics of big money, we seek policies anchored in the moral and constitutional authority of our best traditions. Like President Lincoln and Dr. King, we believe government must serve all the people, not just the rich and powerful. Selling political office to the highest bidder is the road to absolute corruption. Together, we must fight such obscenity and promote real democracy of, by and for the people. Forward together, not one step back! Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is president of the North Carolina NAACP and architect of the Moral Monday Movement. Bob Hall is executive director of Democracy North Carolina.
Opposing these reactionary shifts are tens of thousands of North Carolinians who have joined the Moral Monday movement, led
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OUT & ABOUT
MY BROTHER’S KEEPER YOUTH SUMMIT
DURHAM, NC - Durham County hosted a My Brother’s Keeper Youth Summit for boys of color ages 11-21 on Saturday, January 24th at the Durham Convention Center. With special guest speaker Mike Rae Anderson, there was food, fun and music by Durham’s own DJ Trandle. The “My Brother’s Keeper” summit was convened by Durham County Board of Commissioner Chairman Michael D. Page, as a response to a promise he made in his 2014 State of the County Address to focus on helping young men and boys of color achieve better life outcomes. (Photos: Renaldo Jackson)
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COMMUNITY CELEBRITIES ON THE RED CARPET
DURHAM, NC - CAMPAIGN4CHANGE (C4C) celebrated its 9th Annual Awards Gala & Stop The Violence Benefit with a Community Celebrities on the Red Carpet event on Sunday Jan. 11th at the PNC Triangle Clubhouse at the Durham Bulls Ballpark. C4C Founder/Executive Director Otis Lyons presented awards to individuals and organizations that have been instrumental to C4C’s success. (Submitted photos)
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COVER STORY
CEDRIC WALK ER Cedric Walker is the founder of UniverSoul Circus. The circus’ ability to share our African American culture has made it known throughout the world and is now rated as one of the top 3 circuses in the US.
HE RAN AWAY WITH THE CIRCUS
Cedric Walker was born to be an entrepreneur. He started a shoe-shine business at the age of six. While growing up, he was always selling something: frozen ice, Christmas cards, fruits and vegetables from a horse drawn cart. Walker was raised in a violent, drug invested neighborhood in Baltimore, MD. After he began to get into trouble, his father took him to Tuskegee, AL to live with his uncle. Soon after his arrival, Walker found an illegal club and spent most nights gambling. “Even when I got there the street was still in me,” Walker explains. When Walker was 17, he had a job cutting grass. At the end of one day, he had earned $35. He told his friend that he was going to the craps (grambling) house and “turn this money over.” Walker’s coworker told him that he was saving his money to start his own business and to purchase his own home. Learning about his friends’ vision and ambition changed the direction of Walker’s life. Walker also worked in his uncle’s night club. Walker volunteered to assist the bands and eventually became a crew member with the Commodores. They invited Walker to join their tour and he traveled around the world. Eventually, the Commodores became an opening act for the Jackson 5 and Walker was able to see firsthand the wheels behind the success of Motown?? Walker said, “They made stars. They created legends. They packaged you. They taught you how to walk, dress and dance. Others made records and sold them. Motown sold the whole package. . . I was blessed to be exposed to a lot of that.” 10
Walker was ambitious and eventually rose to become a promoter for the Jackson 5. Walker traveled extensively, saved his money and looked for an opportunity. At 27, he decided to take his passion for advertising and start a marketing company. According to Walker, “When you love something you are willing to work hard.” Walker began to notice that although hip hop music was extremely popular in clubs, it wasn’t being played on the radio. So he created the “Fresh Fest tour”, which was the first hip hop tour to play large coliseums nationwide. The featured artists on the tour included Run DMC, LL
Cool J and the Fat Boys. When he conceived the idea, people told him that he couldn’t do a concert starring unknown rap artists and without a band. When investors backed out, Walker stayed true to his vision. He said,
By Sherri Holmes “I believe in God I believe that he operates within us and our work is a reflection of him. If we do our work in his spirit, we have to follow. There is something about an idea that is very powerful. There is no way to explain it but if it is a good idea you’ll know.” The Fresh Fest Tour was an enormous success. The concerts sold out every arena in 1984 and 1985. In the early 90’s, Walker produced the plays “A Good Man is Hard to Find” and “Wicked Ways.” While promoting the tour, Walker noticed that people sometimes brought their children to the play. Walker saw an unmet need. “We didn’t have anything that reflects urban entertainment…a place that a grandmother, father, daughter or son can all go to, sit together and enjoy. And that’s what began the process of creating an entertainment form that spoke to our culture and had something for everyone.” Walker went to the library and researched black entertainment from the turn of the century. Walker found that in late 1800’s there was an African American who created
Walker CONTINUES ONPAGE PAGE 11 12 Cedric Cedric Walker CONTINUES ON
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a circus that featured all black performers. According to Walker, “It was in 1894 when he lost his show and a hundred years later we came across it.” As with the Fresh Fest tour, investors balked at the concept of a black circus. “Everybody ran from the idea but I was so used to it by then,” says Walker. “I believe in God. I believe that he operates within us and our work is a reflection of him. If we do our work in that spirit, than He will guide you. And it’s easy to follow that guide. You can’t listen to everyone one around you. There is something about an idea that is very powerful. And you’ll know. There is no way to explain it but if it is a good idea you’ll know.” While working on his concept, Walker went to an African American cultural event in New York and came across a booth with the sign “Africans and the Circus Rings.” Walker said, “I nearly flipped. I got tremors. I couldn’t believe it. The hair rose up on my skin. This man had every black performer that ever participated in the circus…the whole history of the Black artistry in the circus. I lost my mind.” Walker got a camera and with the historian’s approval took pictures of everything in the booth. Walker hung the pictures throughout his home “That’s all I saw was the Black circus. I kept looking at it, kept focusing on it. I ate, slept and drank the circus. I spent half the day in the library and learned everything I could about the circus especially black participation in it.” The circus historian introduced Walker to the first Black lion tamer who knew other great circus
performers. The word soon spread that Walker was building a Black circus. “All of these acts were so excited. They didn’t want money for travel. They just wanted to be there and be a part of it. The people in the industry were all very supportive. Everyone wanted it to happen.” The first UniverSoul Circus opened in Atlanta in 1994. Despite the industry excitement, that circus was not an immediate success. The first year the circus lost close to $500,000. In a typical show Walker gave away 90% of the tickets. Walker recognized that in order to build his audience, he would have to first allow people to experience the circus. Walker’s instincts told him that people would eventually pay to attend. “You have to understand that the stronger the tree, the deeper the
roots. The size of the goal that you have to achieve determines what you have to do to achieve it. If you are going for something big you are going to have big problems trying to get there.” Each year tickets sales increased. In 1999, the circus was featured on an HBO special, which was nominated for an Emmy award, and the circus finally became profitable. What motivated Walker during those five years of devastating losses was the joy that the circus gave the community. “It’s the look on peoples’ faces. A grandmother in her 90s came to me and said, ‘Son, I
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lost another million dollars the next day. She didn’t know what she did for me. And that is what kept me going. It was what was happening for everyone. Sometimes the African American kids would make me cry. Just to see their enjoyment. I can’t explain it. Just to feel that made me work, it made me kept going.” Then and now, the UniverSoul Circus continues to amaze audiences. Walker explains, “It is a circus that revolves around our culture. It has always been popular. We have a unique blend of urban music, dance and theater. No one in the world has what America developed through its urban cities.”
I can die now. I never thought I would see the day of a Black circus. I am just totally overwhelmed.’ To make a senior African American proud that they’ve seen something in their life? Man, I could have
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Walker recruits performers from around the globe including Africa, South America and Europe. He provides artists with extensive training and then frames their acts in the urban culture. Hiring individuals with enormous
talent and shaping them into exceptional performers is something Walker learned from his time with Motown. Still, the UniverSoul experience is about more than just the outstanding performers. According to Walker, “Everybody can have great artists and artistry. What makes the magic on this show is the interaction with the audience. There are all of these moments where the crowds are just as big a part of the show as the performers. We don’t perform for you we perform with you.” A few years ago, Walker developed a program for at-risk kids that is now called “Lives Matter.” Its objective is to help to provide kids with inspiration. “It is exposure really.” said Walker. “Growing up within those 4 city blocks you are limited to what you see around you and you pattern your life around it. The minute I was exposed to something different my life changed.” An important part of the special show is a presentation from a kid who is accomplishing great things. After all, those many years ago it was the comment from an ambitious peer that had such an impact on Walker. “That moment changed my life. A parent or adult couldn’t have done it.”
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Seeing a glimpse of the ambition and perseverance of a peer is what sent Walker on the path towards success. He hopes that he can do that for other young people. Today the UniverSoul Circus performs 12 times a week, 48 weeks a year. It is also making a name for itself throughout the world. The International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo is the most prestigious circus awards event in the world. It is presided over by Princess Stéphanie of Monaco. This year, Walker was selected to represent the United States and serve as a judge. Walker states, “I’m so proud that they recognized our circus as the top of the line. There is no achievement greater than being a part of the Monte Carlo Circus Festival.” Walker will always be an “idea man” and continues to seek new opportunities. “We have a wealth of culture. I don’t think that it is exposed as it needs to be. I could die before I could scratch the surface.” Still, Walker’s heart will always belong to the UniverSoul Circus. “When I told people about a circus that featured black performers from all over the world, there was just such a look of pride and joy on their faces at the thought of it. That’s what sold me on it. I just knew that it would be something that had never happened. It would just fill people up. That’s what I felt. I was filled up.
FEATURES
A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE for the dustpan, it was not there. You see, Lloyd P. Ray, a black man, invented the dustpan.
This is a story of a little boy name Theo, who woke up one morning and asked his mother, “Mom, what if there were no Black people in the world?” Well, his mother thought about that for a moment, and then said, “Son, follow me around today and let’s just see what it would be like if there were no Black people in the world.” Mom said, “Now go get dressed, and we will get started.”
So he swept his pile of dirt over in the corner and left it there. He then decided to mop the floor, but the mop was gone. You see, Thomas W. Steward invented the mop and Lloyd P. Ray invented the dust pan. Theo yelled to his Mom, “Mom, I’m not having any luck.”
Theo ran to his room to put on his clothes and shoes. His mother took one look at him and said, “Theo, where are your shoes? And those clothes are all wrinkled, son. I must iron them.” However, when she reached for the ironing board, it was no longer there. You see Sarah Boone, a black woman, invented the ironing board, and Jan E.
“Well, son,” she said, “Let me finish washing these clothes, and we will prepare a list for the grocery store.” When the wash finished, she went to place the clothes in Matzelinger, a black man, invented the shoe lasting machine.
“Oh well,” she said, “ p l e a s e go and do something to your hair.” Theo ran in his room to comb his hair, but the comb was not there. You see, Walter Sammons, a black man, invented the comb. Theo decided to just brush his hair, but the brush was gone. You see Lydia O. Newman, a black female, invented the brush. Well,
this was a sight: no shoes, wrinkled clothes, hair a mess. Even Mom’s hair, without the hair care inventions of Madam C. Walker, well, you get the picture. Mom told Theo, “Let’s do our chores around the house and then take a trip to the grocery store.” Theo’s job was to sweep the floor. He swept and swept and swept. When he reached
the dryer, but it was not there. You see, George T. Samon, a black man, invented the clothes dryer. Mom asked Theo to go get a pencil and some paper to prepare their list for the market. So, Theo ran for the paper and pencil but noticed the pencil lead was broken. Well, he was out of luck because John Love, a black man, invented the pencil sharpener. Mom reached for a pen, but it was not there because William Purvis, a black man, invented the fountain pen. As a matter of fact, Lee Burridge invented the t y pew r iting machine and W. A. Lovette the advanced printing press. Theo and his mother decided
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just to head out to the m a r ke t . Well, when Theo opened the door, he noticed the grass was as high as he was tall. You see, John Burr, a black man, invented Black History CONTINUES the lawn mower. Forget the beautifully manicured lawn. They’d be brown, overgrown and wilted without a black man, Joseph Smith’s sprinkler system. They made their way over to the car and found that it just wouldn’t go. Richard Spikes, a black man, invented the automatic gearshift, and Joseph Gammel invented the supercharge system for internal combustion engines. They also noticed that the few cars that were moving were running into each other and having wrecks b e c a u s e there were no traffic signals. Garrett A. Morgan, a black man invented the traffic light. Well, it was getting late, so they walked to the market, got their groceries, and returned home. Just when they were about to put away the milk, eggs, and butter, they noticed the refrigerator was gone. You see John Standard, a black man, invented the refrigerator. So, they just left the food on the counter. By this time, Theo noticed he was getting mighty cold. Mom went to turn up the heat, and what do you know? Alice Parker, a black female, invented the heating furnace. Even in the summertime, they would have been out of luck because Frederick Jones, a black man, invented the air conditioner.
He usually takes the bus, but there was no bus, because its precursor was the electric trolley, invented by another black man, Elbert R. Robinson. He usually takes the elevator from his office on the 20th floor, but there was no elevator because Alexander Miles, a black man, invented the elevator. He also usually dropped off the office mail at a nearby mailbox, but it was no longer there because Philip Downing, a black man, invented the letter drop mailbox, and William Barry invented the postmarking and canceling machine. Theo and his mother sat at the kitchen table with their heads in their hands. When the father arrived, he asked, “Why are you sitting in the dark?” Why? Because Lewis Howard Latimer, a black man, invented the filament within the light bulb. Once on, how would you turn your lamp off without Granville T. Woods’ automatic on/off switch? Theo quickly learned more about what it would be like if there were no black people in the world, especially if he were ever sick and needed blood. Dr. Charles Drew, a black scientist, found a way to preserve and store blood, which led to his starting the world’s first blood bank. Well, what if a family member had to have heart surgery? This would not have been possible without Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a black doctor, who performed the first open-heart surgery. So, if you ever wonder, like Theo, where would we be without black people? Well, it’s pretty plain to see. We would still be in the DARK! (source:http://emeagwali.com)
It was almost time for Theo’s father to arrive home. 15
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CIVIL RIGHTS COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO GUIDE TOURS OF ‘CONFRONTING CHANGE’ EXHIBIT AT CAROLINA THEATRE by Vivian McCoy and Claudine Daye Lewis
DURHAM, NC — The Carolina Theatre of Durham has reserved special hours this February so visitors may schedule tours of the venue’s “Confronting Change” exhibit, which is dedicated to community members who helped desegregate the theatre through peaceful protests — and change the course of history — in the Civil Rights era. Several committee members who helped develop this permanent exhibit will be present during these hours to tell the story of the protests to visitors. In 2012-13, a committee of community members who were involved in Civil Rights era protests assembled, curated and produced the “Confronting Change” exhibit at the Carolina Theatre. The powerful display opened last February to honor the peaceful protests and resolute protestors who helped desegregate the city-owned theatre via a landmark court case in 1963.
In word and in deed, the dedicated committee members have created a lasting monument to the important changes made in Durham during the Civil Rights era and ensured that everyone will remember the work done to end the theatre’s segregationist policies through peaceful protest and laudable litigation.
In commemoration of Black History Month this February, the members of the Civil Rights Committee will lead tours of the museum-like exhibit, which has been permanently installed on the third level of the theatre. Having been involved in the actual desegregation of the theatre, these committee members will be able to tell the true story behind this amazing transition from a first-person perspective. Guests who arrive at the venue at the times listed below will be greeted by
a theatre staff member, asked to sign in and then led to the exhibit where committee members will provide information on the display and may answer questions about its content.
As always, guests who are unable to view the exhibit during the designated times are welcome to do so by appointment during the Box Office hours of 11 am - 6 pm from Monday through Friday. Interested parties may contact Carolina Theatre Guest Relations Representative Rebeka Todd at (919) 226-8879 to arrange an appointment.
The Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which manages the city-owned Carolina Theatre at 309 W. Morgan The special hours of the “Confronting Street, Durham, NC 27701. Carolina Change” exhibit are as follows (with Theatre of Durham, Inc. is dedicated volunteers scheduled to be present): to presenting vibrant, thoughtprovoking film and live performances Monday, Feb. 9, 1-3 pm - Tours led that contribute to the cultural and by Jackie Jones and Kaye Sullivan economic vitality of downtown Durham and the Triangle Region. Tuesday, Feb. 24, 3-5 pm - Tours led
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THE PERFECT VACATION SPOT: ST CROIX, US VIRGIN ISLANDS ST CROIX, USVI - On Monday morning November 17, 2014, it was rainy and cold in the Triangle as the Spectacular Magazine and Spectacular Magazine Radio Show team departed for St. Croix as guests of the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) Department of Tourism. We left our coats in the trunk of the car as we were anticipating beautiful, balmy weather until our arrival. We were not disappointed. When we arrived at the St. Croix Airport the temperature was 84 degrees, the same temperature it is there every day. After being met by our host we were transported by Sweeney Safari Tours to the host hotel, Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa in Frederiksted, on the west end of St. Croix, nestled at the foothills of a lush tropical rainforest. During our stay we broadcast Spectacular Magazine Radio Show from the island. Among our guests was the Commissioner of USVI Department of Tourism Beverly Nicholson-Doty. She told us all about the island, the water activities, the rainforest, and the people. St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands is the perfect spot for your vacation. Delta Airlines now has a direct flight from Atlanta. And you do not need a passport, just a birth certificate and U.S. government issued I.D. Go ahead, call your travel agent now. You will have one of the most memorable vacations of your life!! PHOTOS: Mel Brown
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TRAVE
VEL
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NEWS BRIEFS ARTS AND CULTURE IN RALEIGH: MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD Durham. To attend a Kwanzaa celebration, they must go to Cary because there aren’t any events in Raleigh. Another resident expressed an interest in free performing arts programs for her child. These are the type of insights that must be shared with the City of Raleigh. There are several opportunities for people to get involved in the planning process. There is a survey on the website, www. raleighartsplan.com. Individuals can also attend one of the community meetings that will be held from March 9th – 11th. Some of the questions that will be posed are: “What types of arts and culture events do you enjoy? What do you want to see in the future? How will tomorrow look different from today? What are the priorities?” The findings from the community engagement will drive the development of the Raleigh Arts Plan. This summer residents can review a draft of RALEIGH, NC - During the month of the Raleigh Arts Plan which will be made February, we honor those who fought for available for public comment. It will be an the inclusion of African Americans into opportunity to ensure that the views they the fabric of our society. Today, the City expressed are translated into real action. The of Raleigh is developing an arts plan that final draft of the plan will be adopted by the will set the direction for providing art and Raleigh City Council and then transitioned to cultural opportunities for its residents. the implementation phase. It is critical that the African American community be a part of this process. The decisions that are made today will impact the City of Raleigh for many years to According to Gerald D. Bolas, Executive Director of the Office of Raleigh Arts, “The come. All North Carolinians are encouraged to complete the Raleigh Arts Plan survey. Raleigh Arts Plan will lay out actionable The hope is that Raleigh’s programming will steps to expand community-wide access to the arts, nurture artists and arts organizations, attract those from other communities. Still, and increase the economic benefits that the the active participation of Raleigh residents is critical. arts bring to the City.” The goal of the Raleigh Arts Plan is for all residents to have Others fought for our right to be heard and to the opportunity to express their views and to help shape our community. You can ensure see that they are implemented. Bolas said, that the City of Raleigh represents those who “To succeed, the Arts Plan should recognize care about African and African American and amplify the unique and diverse character arts and culture. Can you think of a better of our community. Thus the Arts Plan way to honor and celebrate our heritage? To will help us to better foster creativity and in the survey, attend a community connectivity through the arts, enriching the participate meeting or share your thoughts about a lives of all who live, work and play in the draft of the Raleigh Arts Plan, visit www. City of Oaks.” raleighartsplan.com. The City of Raleigh currently sponsors events like the African American Cultural Festival as well as supports arts organizations including the Community Music School which provides free one-onone music lessons for children from low income families. When told about the Raleigh Arts Plan at a recent community event, several Raleigh residents said that if they want to attend an African or African American art or cultural event, they typically travel to By Sherri Holmes
FORMER BACKUP SINGER DECLARED JAMES BROWN’S WIFE IN ESTATE FIGHT
medication. Hynie’s son was not listed among Brown’s six children so she sued the estate to be recognized as Brown’s widow. Brown’s children filed a lawsuit against their father’s attorney and other representatives claiming mismanagement of assets. Being declared Brown’s widow means Hynie won a court battle, but remember this is a war and far from over. This first win still doesn’t mean Hynie will see a dime. Brown’s will leaves the bulk of his estate to The long-running charities. Add to that a pre-nup which Hynie feud over Brown’s final will and testament has taken another odd turn. A South Carolina judge ruled Tommie Rae Hynie Brown is his lawful widow entitling her and son, James Brown II, to a portion of the singer’s estate. If the order stands, Brown, as the surviving spouse, could potentially claim at least onethird of the late soul singer’s estate under South Carolina law, after previously being excluded from his final wishes. Another key plum: the ruling could lead to her collecting a portion of his song royalties signed renouncing any claims to the estate. — a potentially huge pot of money from such hits as “Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag” While Hynie welcomed the ruling, it is and “I Got You (I Feel Good).” Estimates only a portion of the on-going fight of Brown’s financial worth range from a few still Brown’s estate that will include million dollars to potentially tens of millions. over Hynie challenging the couple’s prenuptial agreement. Brown married Hynie in 2002. A marriage that wasn’t valid since Hynie was still married to her first husband. Hynie says that The fight over Brown’s estate has been one of the strangest in recent legal history. One marriage was annulled in 2001, but Brown of the oddest twist came in 2013 when the wanted out of the relationship. He took out South Carolina Supreme Court overturned a full page notice in Variety and publicly a settlement divvying up the multimillionended the union, but failed to complete the annulment process. As he never obtained an dollar estate, saying former Attorney annulment during his lifetime, his marriage General Henry McMaster didn’t follow the singer’s wishes when he interjected his own was never annulled and he was married to Mrs. Brown at the time of his death. Tommie settlement. Rae Brown’s previous 1997 marriage to McMaster, now the state’s lieutenant a Texas man was illegal because he was governor, brokered a 2009 settlement that married at the time they were wed, making divided the estate between a charitable trust, him a bigamist. Tommie Rae Hynie, and giving Brown was dead the rest to his only a few days adult children. before his family began a merry-goThe justices said round of lawsuits the arrangement starting with the ignored Brown’s reading of the wishes for most will. Brown wrote of his money to his will about 6 go to charity for years before his underprivileged death, presumably children in when he was in Georgia and South his right mind Carolina. The and not under settlement remains the influence of unresolved. mind-altering pain It’s been eight years since the Godfather of Soul James Brown died. While hopefully he is resting in peace, the family he left behind has been anything but at peace. They’ve been at war to determine the rightful heir to an estate worth up to $100 million.
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TAYLOR CALLS AUDIENCE TO SERVE AT VGCC’S MARTIN LUTHER KING CELEBRATION
age 39, but he made lasting contributions during a life well-lived,” Taylor said. “We know what King did, but what are you doing? Ask yourself: what am I doing to educate, inspire and support my community?” The answer, Taylor said, is to volunteer to serve. “Turn the spotlight away from yourself and focus on the needs of others,” Taylor advised. “We need volunteers to serve on county boards and commissions, to serve with youth organizations and in many HENDERSON, NC - Vance-Granville other areas. We need citizens to step up, Community College held its annual celebration of the Dr. Martin Luther King young and old.” He said it is possible for everyone to be of service. He recalled the Jr. holiday on Jan. 21 in the college’s Civic Center. The theme of the event was story of Oseola McCarty, a washerwoman “How can we educate, inspire, and support in Mississippi who lived modestly, saved her money and left 60 percent of her our community?” based on the mission statement of the college: “Vance-Granville estate -- estimated at $150,000 -- to the Community College educates, inspires, and University of Southern Mississippi to supports a diverse community of learners provide scholarships for deserving students in need of financial assistance. McCarty, to achieve professional and personal Taylor said, was “an example of service success.” above self.” The speaker recalled a quote Serving as keynote speaker was Archie from Dr. King: “Life's most persistent and Taylor Jr. of Henderson, a retired U.S. urgent question is, 'What are you doing for Army colonel and current chair of the others?'” Vance County Board of Commissioners. He has also served as an adjunct instructor The VGCC event had a service component itself, as attendees were encouraged to at VGCC. bring non-perishable food items, which Taylor gave a brief biographical sketch of were then donated to the Henderson-based Dr. King, who would have been 86 years charitable organization, Area Christians old on Jan. 15. “Dr. King died young, at Together in Service (ACTS).
Briefly
KENCHEN CHOSEN FOR UNIQUE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
RALEIGH, NC – Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) and the Citi Foundation have selected Tara Kenchen, President and CEO of the North Carolina Community Development Initiative and its investment arm, Initiative Capital, as one of 48 community development financial institution (CDFI) professionals nationwide who will participate in the second annual Citi Leadership Program for Opportunity Finance. Developed by CDFIs for CDFIs, the initiative prepares participants to lead transformational change, ensures strong leadership at all levels of the industry and promotes leaders that represent the diverse communities that CDFIs serve. Kenchen joined the Initiative in 2005 as legal counsel and vice president of special projects, was promoted to COO and general counsel in 2008, and named CEO of the nonprofit and its CDFI subsidiary in 2014. She leads the Initiative’s statewide work to catalyze economic growth in areas that are hard-hit and underserved. Kenchen is one of a group of emerging, mid-career and executive level professionals from CDFIs in 20 states and the District of Columbia. These participants represent many CDFI types and focus areas, including affordable housing finance, business and microenterprise, community facilities and consumer finance. (Visit ofn.org to see the full list of participants.)
WARREN WHEELER - NORTH CAROLINA’S NATIVE SON CONTRIBUTED TO THE UNITED STATES’ AVIATION HISTORY By Victoria Wheatley
DURHAM, NC - During the month of October 2014, I had the privilege of interviewing Warren Wheeler and at that time he confirmed many of the “firsts” he had accomplished in his life. He was the first African-American to start a minorityowned commercial airline company in North Carolina. During the 1960’s he was the first African-American pilot to work for Piedmont Airlines, one of the major commercial airline companies in the United States at that time. In recent years Mr. Wheeler has had some health challenges that have caused him to stop his aviation career but it has not dampened his love for the industry. He has now been engaging in projects to make young minorities become interested in this field. He stated that while racism may not be the same as when he entered the field – there are many factors that may deter pursuit as a career. One he termed as “Economicism” is the greatest one in his opinion. Mr. Wheeler said that the average cost of getting a pilot’s license is $250.00/ hour. It takes 1500 hours of training to be licensed and most
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minorities cannot afford this cost. He feels that this has greatly limited minority entrance into this career. He has combined his talents and love of music with his love and passion of aviation to start a non-profit organization, Airolina Music & Flight Support, to help encourage and engage young people who are interested in the aviation career. This group meets in the Durham area. The second part of our interview was done a few weeks later, when he brought some young people along with some of the parents and area teachers to a small airport in Durham to teach them about small aircrafts and tell them some of the history of aviation. The excitement of these children could not be contained. It is obvious that Mr. Wheeler has transferred his excitement and interest to others and it seems to be working. Several of the children told me they wanted to be like “Mr. Wheeler” and they just could not have been more attentive to the things he was showing them on the small planes. Many of them knew the names of the major parts of the plane and were happy to share their information with him. It is amazing to see that this quiet, soft spoken gentleman has had such an impact in our history and is still using his skills to influence the next generation of future pilots. When Mr. Wheeler is not working with young people, he is relaxing in his “British Virgin Island” home, However, when you ask him where he is from he proudly lifts up his head and proclaims “I am from Durham, North Carolina of course…”.
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RECOMMENDED READING THE WORST TIMES ARE THE BEST TIMES
By Levelle Moton & Edward G. Robinson, III The Worst Times Are The Best Times is an honest look at growing up struggling with the world working against you and finding a way to the life you dreamed for yourself. It’s the unique story of Coach LeVelle Moton overcoming the challenges of boyhood in the ghettos of Boston and Raleigh N.C., and using those personal experiences to provide valuable perspective for young people today. Written by Coach Moton and journalist Edward G. Robinson III, the book is moving for adults and poignant for youth, informative for basketball fans, and relevant and engaging to all. LeVelle Moton has pursued success from the day he was born. Born in Boston, Mass., and raised in Raleigh, N.C., to a single mother, he underwent tough times in one of the city’s most notorious housing projects. It was in this environment he learned the importance of hard work and persistence while escaping a crime and drug infested neighborhood. With his grandmother’s love and his mother’s discipline, he survived and has blossomed into one of the country’s most successful up-and-coming NCAA Division I college basketball coaches, as well as a loving husband, doting father and God-fearing man. Moton graduated from Enloe High School in Raleigh, NC, where he spent the majority of his childhood. At Enloe High School, he became a McDonalds All-American nominee while winning three conference tournaments. A graduate of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), Moton was a standout basketball player for the Eagles. Known for his prolific shooting as a guard at NCCU, he is the third alltime leading scorer in school history – 1,714 points, earning him the nickname “Poetry ‘n’ Moton.” After graduating in 1996, he had a brief stint in 1996 with the Seattle Supersonics of the NBA and later played professionally in Indonesia, Germany, Cyprus and Israel. Moton was named to the university’s Hall of Fame in 2004. After his playing days were over, he turned his attention to teaching and coaching. He started his coaching career at West Millbrook Middle School in 2001, moved to Sanderson High School in 2004 and eventually into the college ranks in 2007. Moton returned to his alma mater in 2007 as an assistant coach. In 2009, he was hired as the 17th head coach. In his fifth season as head coach, Moton led the school to its first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and a berth into its first men’s Division I NCAA Tournament. To culminate that tremendous 2013-14 season, he was named MEAC coach of the year. Moton champions himself as more than a basketball coach, holding higher education as a priority for players and himself. He earned a master’s degree from NCCU in Special Education in December of 2013. He has also led a very charitable life, forming the non-profit Velle Cares Foundation, Inc., and hosting an annual community day at the Raleigh Boys & Girls Club. The Velle Cares Foundation’s mission is to serve and assist community-based organizations that promote health, education and life skills for children and families in at risk situations. As part of Coach Moton’s ongoing commitment to support youth in his community, a portion of proceeds from all book sales is being donated to the Boys & Girls Club of America. Edward G. Robinson III is an award-winning sports journalist who has worked for several American newspapers, including The Washington Post, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and The News and Observer in Raleigh. He’s currently a contributing writer for The Washingtonian Magazine. In 15 years as a sports journalist, Robinson has worked as an enterprise writer whose job is to cultivate stories about people in the sports community and share their experiences in a compelling way.
DURHAM COUNTY LIBRARY HOSTS PROGRAM ON NC MUTUAL representatives from these families along with context provided by John Gartrell, Andre Vann and Kimberly Williams-Moore. Gartrell is the Director of the John Hope Franklin Research Center for African American History and Culture, a special collection repository, DURHAM, NC - Durham County Library research division will host “A Family Affair: North Carolina and educational outreach center within Mutual and the Family Business,” a Duke University’s Rubenstein Rare discussion focused on the tradition of Book and Manuscript Library. Vann is several family generations working for the Coordinator of University Archives/ the life insurance company, at 3 pm Instructor of Public History at James E. on Sunday, February 22, at the North Shepard Memorial Library on the campus Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company of North Carolina Central University. He Auditorium, 411 W. Chapel Hill St. is also the co-author of Durham’s Hayti, which is a part of the Black America The oldest and largest African-American Series from Acadia Publishing. Williamslife insurance company in the United Moore is the Director of Marketing and States, North Carolina Mutual Life External Relations at NC Mutual. Insurance Company was founded by John Merrick and Dr. Aaron McDuffie Moore This program is co-sponsored by Durham in 1898 in Durham, and later expanded Library Foundation, North Carolina with the support of Charles Spaulding. Mutual Life Insurance Company, John Though many historians focus on the Hope Franklin Research Center for Merrick, Moore and Spaulding families, African and African American History there were several others with deep roots and Culture and the North Carolina running through the NC Mutual family Central University Archives and Special tree. These families fulfilled many roles, Collections. For more information call including data processing, accounting Joanne Abel at 919-560-0268 or visit and sales. The conversation will feature durhamcountylibrary.org. Robinson has received numerous awards throughout his career. He attended American University in Washington, D.C., where he earned a bachelor of arts in print journalism and a masters of arts in non-fiction and fiction writing from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md. A native of Washington, D.C., he grew up playing tennis and watching countless hours of basketball.
For more information or to order a copy of the book, visit http://www.theworsttimesarethebesttimes.com/
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100 YEARS OF DURHAM ROTARY
release. Stanger, also a former club president, has overseen nearly a year of planning for the club’s Centennial Celebration. Rotary’s “100 Acts of Service Above Self” — the name they have given their centennial project — will support housing, fight hunger, promote literacy and support the arts. Projects will help the elderly and disabled, support public schools, beautify city properties and lend a hand with civic, charitable and city events. A global service project program is included in keeping with Rotary’s international service.
DURHAM, NC – The Durham Rotary Club is celebrating its 100th year, and members have created a plan to expand community service. Affirming the international organization’s motto of “Service Above Self,” Durham’s oldest and largest Rotary Club is dedicated to carrying out 100 local service acts this year. “We are celebrating our centennial not by looking back but by looking forward,” Centennial Chair Don Stanger said in a press
With committee and planning leaders like Rotarians Susan Ross, Brady Surles and Andy Esser hard at work, the club has crossed the halfway mark in meeting a $200,000 fundraising goal to finance their efforts. “We will work in our 100th year and beyond to help all of our citizens as Durham continues its remarkable trajectory into the upper tier of prominent East Coast cities,” Stanger said. “We hope to generate far more than 100 new acts locally. We aim to inspire similar acts everywhere.”
UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED TO AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY
Forty full-tuition scholarships to be offered to those supporting the educational needs of African Americans PHOENIX, AZ - University of Phoenix recognizes the impact just one individual’s educational achievement can have in inspiring a family or even an entire community to strive for success. To help inspire the next generation of college students and professionals, the University announced the launch of the University of Phoenix Road to Success Scholarship program. The program offers 40 full-tuition scholarships to complete a bachelor’sv or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix to individuals engaged in advancing opportunities for others in the African American community. The scholarship program is designed to increase the number of African American graduates entering the education, healthcare and criminal justice and security professions. Numerous studies have demonstrated that
African Americans are underrepresented in these important career fields. Scholarship applicants must be involved with an organization that promotes a more diverse workforce in these areas, and have a demonstrated financial need. “We must celebrate the educational achievements of African Americans as we would achievements in any other area, because they have the ability to enrich our communities and diversify important career areas,” said Byron Jones, Chief Financial Officer of University of Phoenix. “In addition to the scholarship program, we will honor the educational achievements of seven University of Phoenix graduates with a campaign to inspire others to see the positive impact that being a college graduate can have on the graduate as well as their family. We hope their stories encourage others to pursue a higher education.” The application period for the University of Phoenix Road to Success Scholarship is open now through March 23, 2015.
For more information and to apply for the University of Phoenix Road to Success scholarship, visit phoenix.edu/dream. For information on other University of Phoenix scholarship opportunities, and for scholarship requirements, visit www. phoenix.edu/scholarships. www.spectacularmag.com | Febuary 2015 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE
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SPORTS
BALLIN’ OUT
By Lawrence “King Law” Davis
Smith got all his wins at North Carolina, the place that would shape his life and career — and UNC honored him by naming the team’s playing facility after him while he was still coaching, the Dean E. Smith Student Activities Center, popularly referred to as the Dean Dome.
TRIANGLE SPORTS ROUND-UP DUKE RIP: LEGENDARY UNC COACH DEAN SMITH
MBB: Ever since losing to Notre Dame in late January, the Blue Devils have made some big changes which have impacted the team. Junior guard Rasheed Sulaimon was dismissed by Coach Mike Krezyzewski the day after the team got back from South Bend. Apparently it was a sequence of events that led up to the decision to make Sulaimon the first player kicked out of the Duke program in Coach K’s 36 year. Duke would respond on the road against #2 Virginia where a dominant performance led them to a 69-63 victory. Duke returned home to beat Georgia Tech before facing a tough Notre Dame team again within a week. Memory of the 10 point lead that was erased by the Fighting Irish in a road loss for Duke was still in the front of their minds. The Blue Devils would start the game allowing the first six points of the game before going on a 43-7 run in the first half (81% shooting). #4 Duke avenged their loss the best they could, winning 90-60 in front of a rocking crowd. Justise Winslow had 19 points and 11 rebounds, Jahlil Okafor had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Personally I believe the biggest player to watch for is Matt Jones, who had a career-high 17 points vs. Notre Dame. If he can continue to be a threat from the wing and can keep contributing with defense and corner threes, he will be the key person heading down the home stretch of the regular season.
As you all probably know by now Coach Dean Smith passed away peacefully the evening of February 7 at his home in Chapel Hill. And you probably also know that the iconic Smith, a Hall of Famer, won two national championships and coached the Tar Heels to 11 Final Fours and 13 Atlantic Coast Conference tournament titles in 36 seasons. With 879 career coaching victories, Smith ranks fourth all time behind longtime rival Mike Krzyzewski (1,003), Jim Boeheim (963) and Bob Knight (902). But what I would like you to recognize is that in 1966 Smith recruited Charlie Scott, who became the first African-American to be given an athletic scholarship at UNC. In presenting Smith at 2011 ceremonies honoring the former coach with the James A. Naismith Sportsmanship Award, Scott said Smith never talked to him about being the first black athlete at the school. It was all about being a human being. “He taught us about life,” Scott told the audience But that recruitment only scratched the surface of Smith’s political activism. A staunch Democrat and one of the state’s best-known liberals, Smith often spoke out on political issues and joined with a local pastor to help integrate a Chapel Hill restaurant at the height of the civil rights movement. Charlie Scott, as told to Sports Illustrated, “On one occasion, as we walked off the court following a game at South Carolina, one of their fans called me a ‘big, black baboon.’ Two assistants had to hold Coach Smith back from going after the guy. It was the first time I had ever seen Coach Smith visibly upset.”
WBB: Elizabeth Williams scored 21 points, 12 rebounds and managed a career-high 9 assists to help the Lady Blue Devils roll past Clemson 89-60 on February 8th. Rebecca Greenwell added 19 points in the dominant effort, while Kendall Cooper had 11 points and 7 rebounds. Cooper will have big shoes to fill, as sophomore Oderah Chidom (8.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 56.6 FG %) went down with a non-contact shoulder injury in the first half against Wake Forest, her third injury to the same shoulder this season. She will miss the remainder of the season, leaving Duke with only nine scholarship players, eight of which were recruited. The Lady Blue Devils have a tough four game road trip coming up before returning home to finish the season with a big rivalry game against UNC. Coach Joanne P. McCallie mentioned that she feels “fortunate our schedule worked out this way because I feel that it’s the perfect time for this” when asked about their four game road trip. “It’s time to go on the road and be a much better team upon returning for that last game here and then heading on from there.” Williams chimed in to say that she “think[s] it is
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Sports CONTINUES ON PAGE 28 27
fun to play these last couple of games in the ACC on the road. I think it’s a good opportunity for us to finish out the regular season really strong. It’s a great conference and I think it’s exciting to finish with a couple of road games and see how well we stick together.”
the inside in order to be successful.
SIDE NOTE: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS WIN SUPER BOWL XLIX
The New England Patriots are your new World Champions after winning Super
Look for players, in my opinion, like Cooper and Erin Mathias to really see more minutes and to have more production per minute. Both of these ladies can ball, and given the opportunity, they could really have an impact within these last three weeks of the regular season.
NCCU MBB: NCCU has now beaten 28 straight MEAC opponents with a 58-44 victory over a conference foe NC A&T in Greensboro. Forward Karamo Jawara scored 14 points and 8 rebounds and guard Nimrod Hilliard managed 14 points and 4 assists to lead the Eagles to victory. This is the first of three away games before returning to keep the third longest home winning streak (32 consecutive home victories) going against Morgan State on February 21st. I feel as if the men of Maroon and Gray are starting to find their rhythm at the right time. Both the backcourt and forwards are playing off one another. Hilliard is really doing a good job running the show from the point position, averaging just over 6 assists per game. It shows among the big men as well, allowing Jordan Parks to be more aggressive without the ball. This allows him better shots (shooting 62%) and to be more aggressive on the glass (8 rebounds per game).
NC STATE MBB: The Wolfpack have dropped the last 4 of 5 games as they head into their home stretch of the season. They have to host #3 Virginia then hop on the road and go to #9 Louisville, all before heading to face rival UNC in the Dean Dome. This stretch of games can be crucial to the success of their season. NC State seems to be a bubble team at the moment that could end up on the outside looking in if they don’t pick things up shortly. Also rebounding is looking like the weak link for the Pack. Only one player averages over 5 rebounds per game, and that person does not average at least five points per game. They will need a better presence on 28
Bowl XLIX 28-24. The Seahawks lost on a wild interception by Malcolm Butler after Jermaine Kearse made an amazing catch the play before. There has been a lot of controversy over the fact that Seattle did not hand the ball off to their best player, Marshawn Lynch. While most say they should have run the ball, I personally agree with the play call that was run. Seattle had their two receivers to the right of the formation stacked up. When WR’s stack up, it is impossible to jam the back receiver without being offsides. This allows the back receiver to end up being most dangerous on short routes such as slants, flats, drags and screen plays. Kearse was on the line of scrimmage with Ricardo Lockette positioned a yard directly behind him. New England’s Brandon Browner was matched up on Kearse, while Malcolm Butler was behind Browner, waiting for Lockette. Kearse ran a three yard corner to run off Browner, while Lockette ran the slant to the inside. The spacing was perfect and on any other day, on any other play, that is a touchdown! QB Russell Wilson threw this ball right on to the body of Lockette, who beat Malcolm Butler to the ball and to the endzone. However, nobody told Butler. Butler, who arrived maybe a step too late, broke right through Lockette’s hands to grab the ball and secure the best moment of his playing career. It was his first career interception and it was to seal the deal on the Super Bowl. Patriots QB Tom Brady turned down the MVP 2015 Chevy Truck and instead offered it to Butler. Lawrence “King Law” Davis III
King Law
Lawrence “King Law” Davis is a Business Administration major and Asst. Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Sanderson High School in Raleigh. He can be reached at lawdavis@spectacularmag.com SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | Febuary 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
LIFESTYLES SOCIAL SECURITY TO EXPAND FIELD OFFICE HOURS NATIONWIDE Colvin, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “The public expects and deserves world-class customer service and thanks to approved funding, I am pleased we will continue our tradition of exceptional service.”
Social Security announces as a result of Congress’ approval of the fiscal year 2015 budget, the agency will expand its hours nationwide and offices will be open to the public for an additional hour on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, effective March 16, 2015. A field office that is usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. will remain open until 4:00 p.m. Offices will continue to close to the public at noon every Wednesday so employees have time to complete current work and reduce backlogs.
In recent years, Social Security reduced public office hours due to congressional budget cuts, growing backlogs and staffing losses. The agency began recovery in fiscal year 2014 by replacing some field office staffing losses and providing overtime support to process critical work. With the commitment of resources in fiscal year 2015, the agency is able to restore some service hours to the public.
Most Social Security business does not require a visit to a local field office. Many services, including applying for retirement, disability and Medicare benefits, creating a my Social Security account, replacing a Medicare card, or reporting a change of address or telephone number are conveniently available anytime at www.socialsecurity.gov. Social “This expansion of office hours Security also offers assistance reaffirms our commitment to via a toll-free number, 1-800providing the people we serve the option of top-notch, face-to- 772-1213 (Voice) and 1-800325-0778 (TTY). Representatives face assistance in field offices are available from 7:00 a.m. to even as we work to expand online services for those who prefer 7:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. that flexibility,” said Carolyn W.
THIS IS YOUR LIFE By Del Mattioli
“CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE CHILDREN” Bombings, drones, snipers, guns in schools, disconnected families, children born that have no relationship with their parents, leaders at war with each other, political leaders that choose not to work together peaceably, family & friends shooting or hurting each other, beheadings, missing airplanes, beauty pageant runner- up grabbing the crown of the winner on national TV, Bobbi Kristina missing her mom that she may have lost control of loving herself, Kanye West (music awards) storming on stage—the list goes on and on —so how can they focus on their education? “OUR KIDS ARE CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE.” Children are impacted negatively with mass media coverage of daily happenings. The television in the living room, the newspaper on the doorstep, the radio in the car, the computer at work, and the flyers in the mailbox are just a few of the media channels daily delivering advertisements, news, opinion, music, and other forms of mass communication. There is no escape from “stirred up news for rating purposes.” Mass media has an enormous importance to conflict resolution because they are the primary -- and frequently only -- source of information regarding conflicts. If a situation doesn’t make the news, it does not exist for most people. This is impacting our youth! During school hours—our children are still thinking about what they saw and heard on TV. In America, school time is equal to about 12,960 hours for 12 years. Teachers continue to be role models for children however, their hands are often tied . Our Youth has become more dependent on computers for answers and that is crippling their thinking process. What happened to their own critical thinking skills, debating and talking to people? Singing, traveling, spelling bees, reading books and summarizing it in front of class, creative storytelling, reciting multiplication tables orally in the classroom was actually fun Volunteering at school, visiting the library, participating in sports, home economics and vocational education has proven to be beneficial throughout life. Workable ideas include that we must continue to do the right thing alongside children as role models. Maintaining open communication and listening to their thoughts lessens their anxiety! It is harder for our children to determine between right and wrong and choose to make right decisions when their role models of which they may never meet --can get away with doing the wrong thing and still get respect! One kid told me “What’s the purpose- Everyone I like gets away with it?” We shall overcome this challenge! We love our children and must help them cope! Continue to join hands otherwise we will have no one to care for us!
Del Mattioli Del Mattioli MBA, LUTCF, CLUTCH, CSA—Financial Services Professional/ LifeBridgesmMassMutual’s FREE LIFE INSURANCE /FOR ELIGIBLE PARENTS 919 401 9988 www.massmutual.com/lifebridge, dmattioli@financialguide.com Telephone 919 201 2404 email delmattioli@gmail.com
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
FIVE TIPS FOR HEALTHY HAIR By Samantha Huntley and Fallon Bradley Use shampoos and
At Zien Salon our Master Stylists are highly skilled providing the most advanced techniques in the beauty industry. We focus on sustaining and improving the hair health and integrity of every guest. We service a very diverse clientele at Zien Salon so we have a wide range of experience and knowledge with a number textures. For this article I asked Fallon Bradley, Natural Hair Specialist at Zien Salon, to share her secrets. Relaxed or natural, these tips will improve the health and integrity of your hair.
conditioners that are silicone free to avoid heavy buildup on the hair shaft. The appeal of silicon-based shampoos and conditioners is that they provide a smooth sleek appearance while detangling the hair shaft. The disadvantage is that silicone coats the hair shaft preventing the penetration of deep conditioning treatments (hot oil, etc.) performed afterwards.
Deep conditioning treatments (place client under hooded dryer to penetrate the hair shafts cuticle) with natural moisturizers such as olive, coconut, or avocado oil will decreased dandruff, stimulate growth, and reduce split ends, while softening and increasing manageability of the hair.
Exam ple (Phot of healthy o: Yen h g Mou air a)
Aloe Vera revitalizes the scalp with an enzyme that relieves the scalp of dead cells, sebum, and other common problems associated with dandruff to provide a healthy growing environment for the hair shaft, add Aloe Vera juice or gel to your favorite Leave-in conditioner or styling product
Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil
Sea salt contains twenty-six minerals that define curls, add softness and body to the hair shaft. Using a sea salt texturizing spray will increase thickness, add volume and allow you to effortlessly create texture. For extremely over processed hair that is limp (will not curl) repair the hair with a magnesium treatment which is a mixture of equal parts sea salt and hot water. Upon cooling, apply to the hair and go under a heated dryer for 20 minutes. Eat foods with omega-3 essential fatty acid. Essential fatty acids add luster to the hair, improve elasticity and strength, while promoting hair growth. Because our bodies do not produce all three essential acids (ALA, EPA, DHA) very well, it is important to include foods like salmon, almonds, and flax seed into our diet.
Samantha Huntley For more information or to discuss these tips in further detail, contact ZIEN SALON at 919-667-1752. Ask for Samantha Huntley or Fallon Bradley. ZIEN SALON is located at 323 West Main Street in Durham, NC. www.spectacularmag.com | Febuary 2015 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE
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ENTERTAINMENT
‘SELMA’ & ‘BLACK-ISH’ WIN BIG AT NAACP IMAGE AWARDS into a number that included the lyrics: “Writing, directing, no respect from this city,” and a refrain, “Forget the Oscars, hallelujah,” the Emmys and Golden Globes. Taraji P. Henson was a double winner: she was named best actress in a movie for “No Good Deed” and entertainer of the year. Henson, star of the new Fox midseason hit “Empire, is enjoying an especially good 2015. HOLLYWOOD, CA - The civil rights drama “Selma” won top honors at the NAACP Image Awards in a ceremony on February 6th that took sharp notice of snubs of African-American artists and their work by the Oscars. “This is more than a movie,” Oprah Winfrey, who was a “Selma” producer and appeared in it, said in accepting the trophy for outstanding motion picture. “It’s important that we all know who we are so we know where we’re going, and claiming the glory.”
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trophy. U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, the first AfricanA m e r i c a n to hold that office, accepted the NAACP Chairman’s Award honoring distinguished public service. He said he was honored to carry on the Justice D e p a r t m e n t’ s legacy that included ensuring “the most sacred of American rights, the right to vote.” Holder, who is leaving the job after six years, called on the nation to “reject the forces of hate and division.”
On the TV side, Anderson won the award for best comedy series actor for “black-ish,” which was honored as best comedy series and captured a best actress trophy for Tracee Ellis Ross. “To be able to do show about raising our black families every day is a blessing,” said “black-ish” creator and producer Kenya Barris.
“Selma,” which dramatizes events surrounding the 1965 Alabama voting rights marches led by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., also captured best actor honors for David Oyelowo, who played King. “I want to take this opportunity to say I thank the Lord I was able to play one of the most transcendent human beings who ever “How to Get Away with Murder” was named best drama series, with star Viola walked the planet,” Oyelowo said. Davis named best actress in a drama. Awards host Anthony Anderson, the “Criminal Minds” star Shemar Moore “black-ish” star whose freshman ABC was named best actor in a drama series. sitcom was a big TV Spike Lee winner, opened the night rec e i ve d with a jab at the Academy the NAACP Awards, which this year P r e s i d e n t’ s has an all-white slate of Award, which acting nominees. recognizes those who The critically acclaimed have combined “Selma,” although a bestcareer success picture and best-song and public nominee at the Feb. 22 service. In Oscars, failed to garner his speech, bids for Oyelowo or the filmmaker director Ava DuVernay. addressed In January, it received a the obstacles Golden Globe award for facing blacks. best song. “This stuff is rigged. It’s not “People are up in arms set up for us to because they feel the win. It’s always other award shows have been like that. snubbed us. So what. Since we were We’ve got our own show, right?” Anderson stolen from mother Africa … we always said. He then launched find to make a way,” he said, lifting his SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | Febuary 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
Veteran music industry executive Clive Davis, who nurtured the careers of artists including Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and Alicia Keys, received the Vanguard Award, which recognizes work that increases understanding of racial and social issues. He realized early in his career that African-Americans were being “pigeon-holed” as R&B artists and losing out on financial and career opportunities because of that, Davis said. He said he was proud to be honored for his efforts to help black artists reach their full potential. The 46th NAACP Image Awards, given by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People civil rights group, aired on TV One.
DID U KNOW?...
A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE WONDER
LOS ANGELES, CA - The stars were in the house at the Nokia Theatre for the taping of 'Stevie Wonder: Songs In The Key Of Life - An All-Star Grammy Salute' concert at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles February 10th . Everyone from Beyonce, Jay Z, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga to Gary Clark Jr. , Pharrell, John Legend and host LL Cool J saluted Stevie Wonder, the singer, songwriter and musician they called a genius and inspiration to their careers. Tapping the talent that came to town for the Grammy Awards two nights before, the tribute opened with Beyonce belting out "Fingertips," a tune that put the child prodigy from Detroit on the Motown map at the age of 12. She then enlisted British singer Ed Sheeran for a mix of "Master Blaster" and "Higher Ground". Wonder, now 64, holds the distinction of having won 25 Grammy awards, more than any other artist. He also won Album of the Year three times in the space of four years, in 1973, 1974 and 1976, the last one for his most famous work "Songs in the Key of Life."
Wonder, who has been blind since shortly after birth, when he appeared on stage in front of a packed theatre. Wonder was hailed not only for his contributions to R&B, soul, pop and jazz over half a century, but also his work for civil rights, most notably his push to get Martin Luther King Jr's birthday made a public holiday. Bennett called him "one of the greatest jazz artists who ever lived" and performed "For Once in My Life". Lady Gaga said "people throw the word genius around a lot, but Stevie Wonder you truly are a genius" before pumping out an energetic rendition of "I Wish".
Wonder's daughter Aisha joined R&B "I see a lot of people here," joked singer Ne-Yo for "Isn't She Lovely," the
JAMIE FOXX IN SLEEPLESS NIGHT According to ComingSoon.net, Jamie Foxx and Michelle Monaghan have been tapped to co-star in the remake of French thriller Sleepless Night, after an interesting 2014 with Annie and The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Sleepless Night follows the story of Vincent Downs (Foxx), a seemingly corrupt Las Vegas cop whose son is kidnapped by mobsters. Downs decides to go off the books to get his son back, dodging Internal Affairs, particularly officer Jennifer Bryant (Monaghan), and the mobsters themselves.
song he wrote at her birth, and said "I love you, Daddy". Pharrell sang "Don't Worry 'Bout a Thing" with Ryan Tedder, frontman of OneRepublic, and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed a solo of "I Just Called to Say I Love You". Annie Lennox, John Legend, Janelle Monae, Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson were also among the evening's performers, many of whom praised his
love songs. Even if the stars did justice to his music, they were ultimately upstaged by the man himself who performed a final medley that included "Superstitious" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life". The two-hour tribute aired February 16th on CBS.
GIRL POWER: SNL’S LESLIE JONES TO STAR IN ALLFEMALE ‘GHOSTBUSTERS’ REMAKE The upcoming reboot of Ghostbusters will have a have a feminine touch to it. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Saturday Night Live’s Leslie Jones will star alongside funny gals Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig and Kate McKinnon. The trade paper is reporting the ladies are still in negotiation for the upcoming remake, which was originally made famous by Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson in 1984. The sci-fi comedy is expected to begin filming this summer in New York. The flick was in development limbo when the original director Ivan Reitman joined the project along with Aykroyd, Ramis and Hudson. Murray’s reluctance to participate caused the flick’s creation to be halted. After Ramis passed away last year, Reitman exited the project. Director Paul Feig, who teamed up with Melissa and Kristen in the 2011 blockbuster comedy, Bridesmaids was asked to helm the movie and re-conceptualize it.
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CLASSIFIEDS / LOCAL BUSINESS “Servicing Auto Dealerships in Durham, NC & Detroit, MI”
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