Issuu

May - June 2016

The Business Issue

The Urban League’s Mission Helping families build wealth

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy One woman’s success story

Beyond the Game

CIAA: More than a tournament

Bank of America Executive

D. STEVE

BOLAND Makes Charlotte his new home

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

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Virtual Visit from Carolinas HealthCare System brings you 24/7 access to online care from the comfort of your home.* Use your tablet, phone or computer to log on, chat one-on-one with a medical professional, and get a prescription if needed. Visit for cold or flu-like symptoms, pink eye, backaches and more. Enrollment is free. Sign up today at CarolinasHealthCare.org/VirtualVisit

*Patients must be physically located in North Carolina at the time of the Virtual Visit.

Introducing the Affordable Loan Solution mortgage TM

This new home loan option may help lower your down payment By Glenda Gabriel

Neighborhood Lending Executive, Bank of America If you’re thinking about buying a home, you may be able to reduce the amount needed for your down payment with Bank of America’s new Affordable Loan Solution mortgage.1 This fixed-rate loan for low- and moderate-income borrowers offers a competitive rate and a down payment as low as 3% to help make buying a home more affordable. It may be a good responsible loan option for qualified homebuyers who don’t have enough savings for a larger down payment. Here are some highlights of the program:

Find a loan that’s right for you Meet with a Bank of America mortgage specialist who can: • Assess your eligibility for a loan based on income, credit history and other requirements • Prequalify you to see how much you can borrow2 • Determine if the Affordable Loan Solution mortgage is a good option for you • Discuss down payment and closing cost requirements

Search for down payment and cost savings programs

• Competitive rates with a down payment as low as 3% (Applicants cannot own additional properties at closing)

Learn how you may be able to lower your down payment even more:

• Mortgage insurance is not required

• Bank of America connects borrowers to programs that are offered by city, county and state agencies

• Homebuyer education may be required for first-time buyers through a HUD-approved counseling provider or Connect to Own,® Bank of America’s nationwide network of counselors1 • Maximum income and loan amount limits apply (varies by location)

Get personal guidance from a dedicated mortgage specialist Buying a home is an important financial decision. A Bank of America mortgage specialist can help guide you through the process so you’ll feel confident every step of the way. Contact us today to talk about whether an Affordable Loan Solution mortgage would be right for you.

• You may qualify to use these programs in combination with a low-down-payment mortgage to help make buying a home more affordable3 • To see what may be available in your area, visit the Bank of America Down Payment Resource Center at bankofamerica.com/ downpaymentcenter

Get started today. Visit mortgage.bankofamerica.com. Available for fixed-rate purchase loans with terms of 25 or 30 years and on primary residences only. Certain property types are ineligible. Borrower(s) must not have an individual or joint ownership interest in any other residential property at time of closing. Maximum purchase loan-to-value is 97% and maximum combined purchase loan-to-value is 103%. For loan-to-values > 95%, any secondary financing must be from an approved Community Second Program; ask for details. Homebuyer education required prior to closing when all borrowers on the loan are first-time homebuyers. Restrictions apply regarding co-borrowers. Maximum income and loan amount limits apply. 2 Prequalification is neither preapproval nor a commitment to lend; borrower must submit additional information for review and approval. 3 Down payment and/or closing cost assistance programs may not be available in your area. Down payment and/or closing cost assistance amount may be due upon sale, refinance, transfer, or repayment of the loan, or if the senior mortgage is assumed during the term of the loan. Some programs require repayment with interest, and borrowers should become fully informed prior to closing. Not all applicants will qualify. Minimum credit scores may apply. Sales price restrictions and income requirements may apply. Homebuyer education may be required. Owner-occupied properties only. Maximum loan amounts may apply. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2016 Bank of America Corporation. AR47T4PJ AD-04-16-1288 04-2016 1

THE

RANKED MBA PROGRAM IN NC FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS

The strength and respect for the Wake Forest University experience and brand will open doors for you that you never imagined.

NOT JUST ANY MBA. THE WAKE FOREST MBA.

Kelly Starnes, MBA ’15

Senior Territory Business Manager, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Immunoscience Division

A key benefit of the program is learning a business concept in class one night and then applying it at work the next day. Lester Giles, MBA ’15

Senior Vice President, Business Controls Manager, Global Technology & Operations Bank of America

We develop principled, performance-ready professionals prepared to make an impact in their profession — and society— by helping business create a better world. WINSTON-SALEM CAMPUS

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Small businesses occupy a huge place in our community. You and your business bring jobs, a sense of pride and so much more to this area. We’re proud of what you do and want to help you do even more. Which is why we look forward to sharing our knowledge about lending options designed to turn your future goals into next steps. Because we don’t just believe in your business. We believe in you. BBT.com/SmallBusiness

B A N K I N G

I N S U R A N C E

I N V E S T M E N T S

May-June 2016

Departments 10 From the CEO 12 Notable Names 13 By Faith 14 The Mindful Parent 16 Book Review 17 Family Notes 44 Scene and Seen 50 Events Calendar

Business 45 Innovation at Work

Stitch & Co.

47 3 Keys to Small

Business Success More than business cards

48 FYI News & Notes

Health 49 Hyperbaric

Oxygen Therapy One woman’s success story

Features 19 Beyond

May - June 2016

The Business Issue

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

The Urban League’s Mission Helping families build wealth

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy One woman’s success story

Beyond the Game

CIAA: More than a tournament

Bank of America Executive

D. STEVE

BOLAND Makes Charlotte his new home

On the Cover

the Game CIAA: More than a tournament

22 Bank

of America Executive D. Steve Boland relocates to Charlotte

31 The

Urban League’s Mission Helping Families build wealth

33 Open

for Business Meet three local entrepreneurs

40 Curbing

Poverty What can we do to help the poor?

42 Making

It Count goHire program prepares students for success

Bank of America executive D. Steve Boland inside the Urban Garden at 1 Bank of America Center. Photo by Vic LeDan Photography.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

Make the dream of home ownership a reality With BNC Affordable Mortgage a fixed rate loan with low to no down payment · 30 year fixed rate product offering options of 0% to 3% down payment* · Owner Occupied properties only

· Purchase and rate and term refinance · Sellers concessions up to 6% · No PMI

· Qualifying income must be at or below 100% of HUD median Income · Homebuyer education and home inspection required

* A mortgage of $150,000 with a 3% down payment at an Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 4.112% with 0% points, no origination fee and a credit score of 620 would result in 360 monthly payments of $716.12. This is a representative example. Interest rates and APRs are based on current market rate and are for informational purposes only. Rates are subject to change without notice and may be subject to increase based on property type, loan amount, loan-to-value, credit score and other variables. The proposed example does not include tax payments or payments for flood or hazard insurance which will cause the payment to be higher. Maximum loan amount is currently $417,000.00 as of date of publication. Borrower may not have ownership in another home at the time of closing, must not have late payments in the last 6 months and must have a minimum of 12 months rental history. Borrower must contribute a minimum of $500 and have two months of principal, interest, taxes and insurance in reserve. Escrow is required as applicable. Offer is subject to credit approval based on credit history, income and property appraisal. Minimum credit scores and maximum debt to income ratios apply. Structural and mechanical systems (such as roof, flooring, heating, etc.) must have a remaining life of at least 3 years or must be replaced prior to closing. 0% down payment will result in no property equity until such time the loan principal is paid down through regular mortgage payments and/or the property value appreciates. If property values decline borrower could owe more than the property’s value. Interest on portion of loan that exceeds the value of the dwelling may not be tax deductible and borrower should consult a tax advisor. HUD median income varies by area and is the amount at which half of area incomes are above and half of area incomes are below that amount. Seller concessions allow the seller to pay up to 6% of the purchase price toward the home buyer’s closing costs including loan origination fees, discount points, title search fees and prepaid items such as taxes, insurance and inspections. If combined loan to value (CLTV) is greater than 100% borrower must use eligible down payment assistance program (such as FHLBA, City’s DAP, NCHFA, USDA, etc.).

For a complete listing of banking offices throughout the Carolinas and Virginia, please visit our website.

bankofnc.com 1.800.262.7175

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

CEO/Publisher Dee Dixon

Editor-in-Chief Lashawnda Becoats

Copy Editor Polly Paddock

Lead Writer Angela Lindsay

Design & Production SPARK Publications www.SPARKpublications.com

Creative Director Larry Preslar

Lead Designer Genna Baugh

Distribution Watchdog Entertainment

Account Executive Nikelle Fesperman

Public Relations Nepherterra Estrada

Subscribe to Pride

$13.25. Please subscribe online at www.pridemagazineonline.com, mail to P.O. Box 30113, Charlotte, NC 28230 or call 704- 375-9553

Letters to the Editor Please send an e-mail to info@pridemagazine.net fax to 704-375-9550 or mail to Pride Magazine 402 W. Trade St., Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28202 www.pridemagazineonline.com

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

FromTheCEO

By Dee Dixon

We Have a New Website!

i, folks. Sound the trumpets, please! Pride has a brand-new website, and we are thrilled! It is easy to use, intuitive and visually appealing. AND, unlike our old website, it is updated weekly with fresh content. Pride Editor Lashawnda Becoats has been and is the catalyst for getting this baby up and running. Kudos to her for leading this effort. (BTW, she does an excellent job for the magazine, too.) Please explore the site — www.pridemagazineonline.com. Let us know what you think. “Love My Pet” Contest We racked our brains to come up with a contest to help promote our new website. When I saw this photo of my grand‑doggie, Rocco (Tye's Boston Terrier), we thought no more. So, for all you animal lovers out there, it’s Pride’s, “LOVE MY PET” competition. All you have to do is submit the name and a photo of your favorite pet and tell us, in 50 words or less, what personality trait or habit makes you looooooove it to pieces! The winner will be selected from the first 100 entries, based on photo quality and best description of your pet’s personality trait or habit. See ad on the following page and go to the new website for complete contest rules. The prize package will include a valuable gift and a photo of your pet in Pride Magazine and on the website. Annual Small Business Summit Set For May 24 Did you know that, according to the Small Business Administration, 50 percent of all small businesses fail within five years? I hate to be the bearer of more bad news, but also, did you know, compared to

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

similar cities, Charlotte is not doing very well with regard to entrepreneurship and investments in start-up companies? This, and more disturbing trends from Charlotte’s first Entrepreneur Growth Report, was recently exposed in a Charlotte Observer news article. I’ll bet, however, that all of us minority business owners are not a bit surprised at this information, because, clearly, it’s 10 times harder for us to stay in business than our majority counterparts. That’s why Pride is once again partnering with Wells Fargo to bring our fifth annual Small Business Summit to Wake Forest University’s uptown campus in just a couple of weeks. We have an exciting agenda planned, with a focus on taking

your business to the next level. You’ll hear from a powerful panel of expert entrepreneurs, learn why small businesses fail and find out just how much you really know about entrepreneurship. It’s from 8 a.m. until till noon, with a breakfast networking session. Of course, there is no charge to attend, so hurry and register at http://2016smallbusinesssummit.eventbrite. com or call the office at 704-375-9553. Seating is limited. My Small Business Prayer As you may have gathered from my comments above, I know firsthand the difficulties of running a small business. May I close with one of my prayers? “Lord, with all the technology, Google‑ology, research-ology and expert advice out here, I still need YOU to help me run my business, ‘cause I don’t know what’s going to kick me in the rear, run me off the road or try to do me in. You know I’m blind and can’t see what’s ahead, and this can be downright scary. So, I humbly ask you to fill me with wisdom, provide me with relationships, resources, patience and good health. Most of all, LORD, as a small business owner, please give me the COURAGE to face each day, forgive me for my wrongs and regardless of what I face, may I always be ready to help someone else. Finally, enable me to have peace and not take all this so seriously. After all, ‘“this, too, shall pass.”’ Amen.”

Enjoy this issue. It’s fantastic!

www.PRIDEmagazineonline.com

Attention all pet lovers...

PET L VE myCONTEST

Pride Magazine's NEW website is doggone good and we want YOU to help us launch it with our first ever

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO DO: 1. log on to www.pridemagazineonline.com and click the Pet Contest Link on the homepage 2. download and read the contest rules thoroughly 3. download and fill out the entry form 4. email the completed entry form and an original (300 dpi) photo of your pet to:info@pridemagazine.net 5. or, call 704-375-9553 and have the rules and entry form faxed or emailed to you.

Judges Will Choose the Winning Photo From the First 100 Entries.

Contest Ends July 29, 2016 at 5pm The prize package will include a photo of your pet in Pride Magazine and on the website. (CONTEST VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW)

NotableNames By Charles Kelleher Harris

GAIL SHARPS MYERS

ROBERT C. MOCK, JR.

Gail Sharps Myers was named senior vice president and general counsel of Snyders Lance. Snyders Lance is the producer and distributor of a wide range of snack foods, including Diamond, Kettle Brand and Pop Secret. Besides being the chief legal officer, Myers oversees compliance and government relations. Myers is a native of Kingston, Jamaica. Prior to working for Snyders Lance, Myers served as senior vice president, deputy general counsel and chief compliance counsel for US Foods, Inc in Chicago., Myers is a graduate of Howard University. Myers and her husband, who is a chef and restaurateur, have two children, Isabella, 14, and Kingston, 5. P

Robert C. Mock, Jr. was named president of Johnson and Wales University’s Charlotte Campus. Mock’s focus will be on building retention and graduation rates, affordability and building relationships with the Charlotte community. Mock also wants to help boost campus infrastructure. Mock previously worked at the University of Arkansas and most recently was vice president of student affairs at the University of Kentucky Lexington. Mock earned his doctor of education in higher education administration and master of arts in interpersonal and organizational communication from the University of Arkansas. He received his bachelor of science in industrial engineering at Southern Illinois University. Mock also served in the Arkansas National Guard from 2002 to 2010. P

LLOYD M. YATES

SHARON HOLM

Lloyd M. Yates serves as executive vice president of market solutions and president of Duke Energy’s Carolinas Region. Yates is responsible for delivering top-notch customer service that helps expand Duke Energy’s long-term growth. He also oversees profit loss and performance of the company’s utilities in North and South Carolina. He previously served as executive vice president of regulated utilities for Duke Energy. Previously, Yates worked for more than 15 years with Progress Energies Carolinas. Yates earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s degree in business administration from St. Joseph’s University and attended the advanced management program at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and the executive management program at Harvard Business School. Yates and his wife, Monica, have two daughters. P

Sharon Holm is the new director of marketing and communications for Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. “I lead all of [Bechtler’s] marketing communications initiatives, working closely with our media, publications, sponsors, advertisers and community-based partners,” said Holm. A native of Winston-Salem and graduate of Syracuse University, Holm spent 20 years working in Hong Kong, Spain and Demark with Andersen Consulting, Dow Jones and Thompson Reuters/Thompson Global Markets. She also worked as the global head of marketing and communications for Artcoustic International. Holm lives in Charlotte with her 10-year-old son, Nicolaj. “After living overseas for 20 years I feel like I’ve come home,” said Holm. P

DID YOU KNOW? Granville Woods patented over 50 inventions for railroads and telephony, including the third rail, the overhead conducting system and a method for transmitting messages to and from moving trains. 12

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

ByFaith

By Rev. Dr. Dwayne Bond

The Truth About the Work-Life Balancing Act

aintaining a balance between work and the rest of life can be one of the most epic challenges to overcome. In hopes of achieving a meaningful, rich and rewarding life, most individuals have made the pursuit of work-life balance a goal. Attempting to manage a job and the unpredictability of sporadic life demands can create quite an imbalance in one’s life. Frankly, managing it all can be exhausting, frustrating, defeating, discouraging and confusing. How can people prevent work from consuming their entire lives? How can a disproportionate and fragmented work-life balance be avoided? Does work-life balance even exist? Achieving success at work at the expense of wholeheartedly investing in other significant areas of life is not an accomplishment at all. Winning at work and failing domestically may accompany tangible occupational accolades, cheers and applause while yielding to devastating outcomes outside of work. Many managers, business owners and executives are known for their success between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., but are privately struggling with their varied roles outside of the office. Very few people consistently excel in the arenas of work and home. People don’t intentionally set out to avoid offering a meaningful investment in their families or isolate themselves from their friends. However, as job responsibilities and demands increase, time, effort and energy for home typically lessens by default. Enhanced benefits, salaries, bonuses, accolades, fulfillment and afterhour career “requirements” tend to offer a convincing allurement and seduction to “sell-out,” regardless of the cost to other relationships and responsibilities in life. It’s so easy for one’s full attention to be arrested by the demands that scream the loudest and offer the most immediate rewards. Consequently, people’s relationships and lives at home tend to suffer. Can you win at work without losing yourself or a purposeful connection with those that you sincerely love? When Jesus walked the earth, He was in great demand,

constantly approached, committed to his job, focused on his mission, proficient at what he did, but not at the expense of those that he loved. Although there was never a dull moment, people around Him never suffered. While being surrounded by people, their needs as well as vehement opposition, Jesus never lost focus on who He was and who He loved. How did He do it? What can we learn from Him? Jesus was focused on the essentials in life, and sought to avoid being distracted by nonessentials. In John 6:38, Jesus said, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of Him who sent me.” His essentials consisted of loving and obeying His father (John 14:31), being a witness of love, grace and mercy (John 1:14), teaching the truth of God’s word (Matthew 5), praying to the Father (John 17:11), demonstrating the power of God (John 6), being in community with sinners (Mark 2:13-17), paying the debt for sinners (John 19) and rising from the dead as God (John 20). Jesus didn’t manage His time, but instead He managed His energy, so that He would fulfill what was essential to His Father. He said “yes” to the essential demands of each day, and “no” to the nonessential demands that

sought to distract Him. Jesus didn’t waste mental, emotional and physical energy on nonessentials such as false teachers, haters and religious people and the lies and entanglements of the Pharisees and Sadducees. What about you? What is essential in your life? What is nonessential in your life? In other words, what has a negotiable level of importance in comparison with that which is essential? Manage your energy throughout the day to focus on the essentials, bring energy home for the people and responsibilities that await you. Family and home-life are essential. By saying “yes” to the essentials at home, you can reduce the temptation of being “seduced” and “bullied” into giving your energy only at work. Spend time enjoying your family, connecting with your spouse, sleeping at least eight hours, stewarding your home, having fun, serving in a local church, developing your prayer life and learning from God’s word. Give your energy to that which is essential, especially when life feels out of balance. May God bless you as you focus on what really matters! P The Rev. Dwayne Bond is the lead pastor of Wellspring Church.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

TheMindfulParent

By Shavonda Bean

Parents, Don’t Let Anxiety Rule Your Child

n places where children gather, it can be commonplace to hear phrases such as, “Be careful,” “Watch out!” or “Don’t do that or you’ll get hurt.” Parents have the innate desire to protect their children, but are they really in danger each time? There is no denying that today’s society and media provide numerous and repeated images and messages of fear, and unfortunately, in some communities, fear is a reality. Managing that fear and avoiding worsening fears and anxiety while parenting the child you love can be a task. Anxiety itself is a normal reaction to stress and can actually be beneficial or give us an extra boost of energy during a performance. Worrying about day-to-day stressors, grades or finances is not unusual and does not necessarily indicate a problem. When anxiety becomes excessive, is difficult to control, interferes with daily life and is associated with anticipation of a threat, muscle tension, vigilance or avoidance of situations or places, it has possibly become a problem. Anxiety has many variations and is one of the most common mental illnesses in America, affecting approximately 40 million adults. Twenty-five percent of 13 to 18-year-olds and one in eight children will experience some diagnosable level of anxiety (adaa. org, nami.org). Most anxiety begins in childhood and can persist if left untreated. So what are the chances that being an anxious, overly cautious or overprotective parent could be associated with anxiety that goes awry? Parental stress and anxiety have been known to impact a child’s overall mental health and wellbeing. Can an overprotective parenting style lead to an overanxious child? Like many mental illnesses, there are few clear answers about the etiology of anxiety. We do know that anxiety is associated with several factors, including genetics, biological factors that influence brain chemistry, an overactive autoresponse system, trauma or significant changes and learned behavior. The learned behavior could involve a child who grows up in an unpredictable or

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

dangerous environment in which risk is prevalent, and being alert and aware are important for safety. Understanding your child’s temperament is also important, since children who are more inhibited and concerned about negative evaluations from others are often more susceptible to anxiety. However, a child growing up in a family in which anxious and fearful behavior is taught can display anxiety. The child is likely paying attention and learning how to handle his or her own fears from parents. There actually are correlations between social anxiety and specific phobias/ fears and the overprotective parenting approach. Anxiety has also been linked to parents who lack warmth and reassurance. So, while the cause of anxiety does not necessarily lie in the hands of the parent, I believe the parent can play a key role in providing an environment that minimizes fear and potential anxiety. It would be one

that models healthy coping skills, encourages children to walk toward their fears to conquer them, avoids fearful messages such as, “be careful” and instead encourages children to “have fun,” or reminds them that they will be OK when minor incidents occur on the playground, allows children room to explore and make mistakes, minimizes stressors and provides opportunities for open and honest communication about feelings. Remember, anxiety is one of the most treatable conditions, yet only a small portion of people seek help, and many wait years before they do. If you notice your child struggling with fears or becoming increasingly anxious, help is available and the outlook can be bright again. P Shavonda Bean, is a licensed psychological associate and owner of Essential Assessments & Behavioral Health. Visit www. EssentialHealthNC.com for more information.

YOU READ THEY SUCCEED

In 2015, 60% of Charlotte third graders were not reading at grade level - a critical time in their educational development. In fact, children who do not read proficiently in third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. You can help by giving six hours of your summer to volunteer with the YMCA of Greater Charlotteâ€™s Y Readers program. You choose the location and day that is convenient for you, and spend an hour each week reading with students. Together, we can give all students the opportunity to reach their greatest potential. To get involved or learn more, visit ymcacharlotte.org/yreaders

#yreaders

YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

BookReview

“Retire Inspired”

By Angela Haigler

by Chris Hogan

hris Hogan has emerged as a new financial guru, with the power of the Dave Ramsey financial machine behind him. His book, “Retire Inspired,” takes the Ramsey “Total Money Makeover” and “Financial Peace” concept a step farther, with a focus on retirement planning. “Retire Inspired” is not just a wake-up call;, it’s a polar plunge of awareness to readers that no matter what stage you’re in, you need to devise a retirement strategy. Company pensions are a thing of the past, and today’s retirement arrangements require much more employee input, both financially and strategically. The statistics are alarming: • 76 percent of people in the United States are living paycheck to paycheck. • 45 percent of working-age households have no retirement savings at all. • Among people ages 55-64, the average household retirement savings is only $12,000. Hogan suggests thinking about retirement “not as an age, but as a financial number.” He says a specific number will motivate you throughout your life cycle and help you think about retirement as something tangible and achievable, as opposed to something in the distant future that will take care of itself magically. He also frowns on the ideas of thinking of your children as your retirement plan, or putting a child’s college education ahead of your own retirement planning. The book also provides basic explanations and definitions of common financial terms. Ramsey provides the foreword, and those familiar with Ramsey concepts might feel as if the two are one and the same, with Hogan being a younger, chocolatecovered version of Ramsey. Hogan has been a Ramsey trainee for the past 10 years, and in this book he shows that he may very well be the heir apparent to the Ramsey franchise.

suggests that with proper planning and advice from a trained professional, those who begin saving upwards of $100 per month for retirement in their 20s, and increase that amount each decade, could potentially have $1 million in retirement funds by the time they are 50. If $100 per month is not possible, Hogan says, just start somewhere. He cautions that living within our means is key.

Why this book is great:

Angela Haigler explores the literary world at www.angelicmusings.wordpress.com and on Twitter @angelicmusings.

The book encourages those new to retirement savings to start young. Hogan

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Where this book could be improved:

“Retire Inspired” provides a focus on employer-sponsored, employer-affiliated retirement programs and the basics. I wish there were more information about retirement planning for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Sometimes, what stops an entrepreneur from stepping into his or her own business is fear of the loss of retirement funds and health benefits from an employer.

FamilyNotes

Compiled by Lee McCracken

Local Biz Kid Charlotte’s own Kyla Williams, 10, started her own business, Kuties Customize Hair Accessories, two years ago. Having long, thick hair, Kyla was in search for bows and headbands to tame her mane. “She likes to be different,” says Kyla’s mother, Katasha Williams. “She picks out the ribbons and makes her own designs.” Poised and quite adultlike, Kyla doesn’t mind public speaking and enjoys making her own sales presentations. “She’s a go-getter,” adds Williams. Kyla has learned to made the headbands and even uses her mother’s sewing machine. This past fall she branched out into making NFL throw pillows. This young entrepreneur also knows a percentage must go back into the business. With a few hundred dollars in her bank account, Kyla is “very much a saver,” says affirms her mom. Recently, though, she bought her dad a pair of sneakers for his birthday and even lent money to her brother. “He’s 15, and he’s always borrowing from Kyla,” her mother says. Let’s hope she’s charging him interest! For more information and photos, find Kuties Customize Hair Accessories on Facebook and Instagram.

The Next Generation of Game-Changers Exposing children to entrepreneurs is a wonderful way to inspire creativity and build confidence in them. In February, Black Enterprise presented a list of African-American trailblazers — young financial whizzes who are making their mark on the world. The Reigning Black Enterprise Teenpreneur of the Year, Moziah Bridges, markets a line of handcrafted bow ties. He started his $150,000 bow tie business at age 19. Black Enterprise 2013 Teenpreneur Maya Penn, 14, is founder of Maya’s Ideas. She started her company when she was 8 years old. Maya produces short films, creates artisan-crafted, eco-friendly accessories and clothing, and she has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, TIME, Essence and Ebony. High school student Chental-Song Bembry is the author and illustrator of Honey Bunch Kids, a children’s book series about a group of African-American middle school students who miss their bus and walk to school together in the rain. In 2011, she was part of the funding-and-mentoring program of 100 Urban Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit foundation that offers $10,000 in start-up grants and eight weeks of mentoring to talented young entrepreneurs.

Read It and Reap Reward$

This just-released paperback for children ages 10-14 is a tool to help teach (and motivate!) them to earn, save and invest. “How to Turn $100 into $1,000,000: Earn! Save! Invest!” (Workman Publishing Company, April 5, 2016) by James McKenna, Jeannine Glista and Matt Fontaine, is humorous and informative — a book that engages young readers and gives parent a leg up on raising financially savvy and unspoiled children. Written by the creators of Biz Kid$ and Bill Nye the Science Guy, it promotes good decision-making and appreciation for the hard-earned dollar.

5 Tips for Young Money-Makers Whether your children want to start a babysitting or dog-walking business, or are recording their own songs, Entrepreneur.com offers these tips to guide them on their journey. 1. Do what you love. Passion will keep you motivated and get you through the ups and downs. Find out what you enjoy doing and become really good at it. 2. Define your market. Target your specific audience, and don’t try to deliver everything to everybody. Write a business plan and stick to it. 3. Practice your pitch. Be ready to explain your product/service on a whim in 30 seconds. You never know when or where a potential customer will be eager to listen. 4. Find a mentor. A wise business owner can help you learn from his or her experience and also help connect you with the right people to make your start-up a success. 5. Follow the rules. You’re the boss, but that comes with a lot of responsibility. Keep track of your expenses and manage your cash flow. Find out if you need to register the name of your business (purchase a domain name or trademark your product) and pay taxes.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

PROUD TO GIVE BUSINESSES A LIFT CATS is proud to provide opportunities for businesses to create local jobs through the advancement of transit projects. CATS also seeks to create an environment that gives small and socially or economically challenged local businesses the opportunity to compete for publicly funded contracts by participating in the Small Business Opportunity (SBO) and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Programs. To date, 100 DBE firms have been awarded contracts of $76 million to help build the LYNX Blue Line Light Rail Extension. As the major provider of public transportation to Charlotte and the surrounding region, CATS relies on the communities we serve to build and operate the service every day. By working together on these new opportunities, we can all keep our communities moving in the right direction. For more information, visit ridetransit.org.

CATS. YOUR RIDE IS HERE.

Beyond Basketball A Look at the CIAA Year-Round By Angela Lindsay Photos courtesy of CIAA

ong after the students, alumni and revelers have vacated Charlotte following the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) weekend festivities, the hard work behind the scenes will still be going on. The CIAA is more than just a basketball tournament. Besides promoting athletic achievement, it is a growing brand and a year-round effort dedicated to legacy, educational excellence and community engagement. “The CIAA brand has a long-standing history that honors both our tradition and future, as the nation’s first historically black collegiate athletic conference, and most recognized for the contributions made nationally, regionally and locally,” says Jacqueline “Jacqie” McWilliams, CIAA commissioner. “The brand has afforded the conference national sponsors to support the goals and objectives of the conference, to include television rights, scholarships and championships, specifically the CIAA basketball tournament, which is most recognized for its growth and impact in the community. The brand is significant to our relationships, partnerships and visibility.”

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

Headquartered in Charlotte, the CIAA staff is comprised of 10 employees, two full-time graduate assistants, and three to four interns each semester, as well as contractors and partners for services to support the CIAA throughout the year. That includes public relations and marketing, medical services, statistical services, media rights, official CIAA event/hospitality management, executive coaching and leadership training and ticket management. The CIAA operates similarly Jacqueline “Jacqie” McWilliams, to the National Collegiate Central Intercollegiate Athletic Athletic Association (NCAA), but on a much smaller scale, Association (CIAA) commissioner. McWilliams explains, in managing members, the governance structure and championships. It is governed by a 12-member board of directors and a membership structure that assists with adopting rules, regulations and implementation as determined by the board. “We have a responsibility to be great stewards of the approved operating budget, and [to] seek funds through sponsorships and grants to support CIAA championships, educational and leadership programming, meetings and revenue distribution to our members,” she says. McWilliams adds that the CIAA is a family whose members believe in something greater than themselves, to support

CIAA Entrepreneurship breakfast and panel discussion.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

their student-athletes, fans, alumni, sponsors and community. Its commitment to community includes CIAASupports, an initiative fostered by McWilliams’ vision to create a deeper level of engagement year-round with all of its member schools and student-athletes, to give back in the cities where its championships are held. Events include Education Day, which services nearly 5,000 middle and high school students in and around the CMS school system with education information, motivational speakers and access to college and university recruiters. Career Expo is designed to provide employers, recruitment officers and graduate school recruiter representatives with the opportunity to meet graduation candidates, recent graduates and current students from the CIAA member schools and other universities in the Charlotte area. The Career Expo will be opening to the public, as well, in the hopes of providing job opportunities to Charlotte residents, supporting small and minority businesses and entrepreneurs through free seminars, panel discussions, and networking events, in partnership with organizations such as the National Black MBA Association—Charlotte chapter, Queen City Forward, Charlotte Center City Partners, Charlotte Chamber and the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council, and bone marrow drives with student leaders of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) & Project Life Movement. The CIAA is also slated to donate more than 1,000 new shoes (nearly 600 have been collected to date) to elementary school students, in partnership with Samaritan’s Feet and Coke Zero, in low-income areas. It provides educational opportunities for students to attend any CIAA school through the CIAA General Scholarship Fund. Along with its corporate partner, Lowe’s, the organization has built numerous Habitat for Humanity homes

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and held a day of service with all 12 member schools at the Boys and Girls Club in 2016. Other activities include food drives with Food Lion Feeds, school visits and school supply donations during football season in Durham, as well as Durham Rescue Mission service by student-athlete leaders of SAAC and free football and volleyball clinics for community youths. “The CIAA creates opportunities and jobs, we showcase local and national talent and we find ways to leave impact beyond the court through service. We have a responsibility, and that is why I love this conference,” McWilliams says. McWilliams has a vision for the conference, with her primary goal over the next three to five years being to work with the CIAA board to ensure the conference has a financial reserve that will sustain its growth and future. “I want to ensure that we can continue to support the academic and athletic excellence of our student-athletes and members. Thus, we must ensure that our sponsorships and partnerships are healthy, to minimize any risk that does not support this goal,” she says. “The future is bright and we are headed in the right direction.” P

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May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

D. Steve Boland, managing director of consumer lending at Bank of America. 22

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

For Bank of America Executive D. Steve Boland, Relocating to Charlotte is a Lot Like

COMING HOME Now that Boland, managing director of consumer lending, is moving to Charlotte, we wanted to reach out and welcome this distinguished, committed African-American leader and his family to the Queen City. We recently spoke to Steve and wanted our readers to get to know more about this successful new member of our community.

A few years ago, you were recognized by Black Enterprise magazine as one of the “75 Most Influential African Americans on Wall Street.” Has relocating to Charlotte from New York been a big change?

Changes in location have played a big part in my life, actually. I spent my childhood in Florida and Jamaica. During my career, I’ve lived in Chicago, San Francisco, southern California and New York, while traveling to many other places, too. I’ve always considered experiencing new locations to be an opportunity to learn more, make new connections and serve as a member of a new community. In a certain sense, relocating to Charlotte feels a lot like coming home. I began my banking career with NCNB — one of the direct predecessors of Bank of America. And, of course, I’ve enjoyed spending time in Charlotte when business brought me to Bank of America headquarters frequently over the years. My family and I are enchanted with the culture, the environment and the lifestyle. This city is vibrant and has so much to offer.

Q A

Can you explain your role and being based at Bank of America Corporate Center?

I am thrilled to be in this role at the bank. As the consumer lending executive, I have leadership responsibilities for Bank of America home loans, the consumer vehicle financing unit and the residential real estate portion of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management – areas that directly serve some of our clients’ biggest financial needs. So, it makes sense for me to be based in Charlotte – especially since 2016 will be a strong year for consumer lending. Stable home values and employment numbers suggest that home purchase activity will be constant. Also, interest rates are still lower than people expected, which continues to offer home refinancing opportunities. In auto lending, there should be great refinance opportunities also, as well as lower payments for those looking to purchase — people like me coming from New York without a car. At the beginning of my career, when I was a young banking

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

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center manager, I realized there is nothing better than the reaction you get when you tell people they are able to own their own home or get the car they want or the line of financing they need because their kid is getting ready to go to college. I feel the same way today! Even though I’ve spent more than 25 years in the lending side of banking, that feeling never grows old.

Q A

Outside of your rewarding career, what other factors motivate you to succeed?

Whether it’s in my career or my personal life, success for me revolves around family, faith and education. Even when I was a very young boy, my mother thought there was nothing that I could not achieve. With support like that, it became second nature for me to believe in myself. My wife and I have tried to instill that same level of confidence in our children. My family truly is everything to me. Like all parents, there are days when it is startling to realize how fast the time goes by, and that our precious small children have become teenagers and young adults. We are a family of strong faith and we’ve always been very busy with school, sports and fellowship activities. The whole Boland household is excited about the new connections to come in Charlotte.

Q A

What would you tell others who want to follow your example? I am passionate about the importance of education. My education has played a huge part in my success. I continue

“At every step along my career path, I’ve advocated for resources to support education. I’m very proud of the extraordinary investment in educational resources that Bank of America has made, and our track record in helping people make informed decisions about their financial goals.” – D. Steve Boland

to use – and build upon – the knowledge and skills that I acquired while earning my degree in organizational studies at Northwestern University. So, the most important piece of advice I would give is: Focus on your education and that of your family members. For example, I’d encourage young people to participate in mentoring programs like the Pride Entrepreneur Education Program here in Charlotte. At every step along my career path, I’ve advocated for resources to support education. I’m very proud of the extraordinary investment in educational resources that Bank of America has made, and our track record in helping people make informed decisions about their financial goals. This is particularly

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2016 upcoming events: 2016 SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT INNOVATE  ACCELERATE  DOMINATE

Tuesday, May 24, 2016 • 8:00 am – 12:00 pm Wake Forest University School of Business - Charlotte Campus 200 N College St • Charlotte, NC 28202

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gratifying now that we work with so many millennials who want to learn how to be ready to buy their first car – and their first home.

Q A

What is new and exciting in banking?

In the world of banking, the most exciting stuff is happening in the online and digital space. With 19 million active mobile users – and growing by about 5,500 users each day – our digital capabilities impress me to no end. We have digital wallet integrations, like Apple Pay™ and Samsung Pay™, mobile check deposits, card-less ATMs, online loan applications and we’re adding more features all the time – all making it easier for our clients to manage their finances at their fingertips. And, specific to home loans, we’re launching a new online service called Home Loan Navigator, which will let our mortgage clients see their loan status real time, understand next steps, upload and sign documents electronically and communicate with their loan experts, all within the secure online banking platform Bank of America hosts for our customers’ other banking transactions. We continually ask clients what they want in their mortgage experience. And while a knowledgeable and responsive loan officer continues to be the most critical piece, clients expect an online experience to complement that personal relationship. It’s all about providing transparency with what is going on with their loan – and it is digital capabilities, coupled with real people, that make that possible. P Content provided by Bank of America. Photos by Vic LeDan Photography

Pride Magazine ~ Charlotte, NC

@prideinternet

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Pridemagazinecharlottenc

Patrick Graham

Sees Opportunities Where Others See Risk Urban League Programs Helps Families Build Wealth By Tonya Jameson Photos by Vic LeDan Photography

hen a Harvard and UC Berkeley study revealed last year that the poor in Mecklenburg County tend to stay poor, hand-wringing began throughout the city. There were news editorials and the usual hype. The county created a task force to address the problem – of course. There were discussion groups. A year later, it seems that the hype is gone. The lack of economic mobility is no longer worthy of news headlines. The fact that the poor are less likely to rise out of poverty here than in other cities isn’t news. It’s just reality. Urban League of the Central Carolinas (ULCC) CEO Patrick Graham confronts that reality every day. ULCC, headquartered at Fifth and Cedar, offers nearly a dozen programs to help clients improve their skill sets to make them attractive to employers. The Urban League’s mission is bigger than simply helping clients find jobs. Any service organization can do that. “What we’re trying to do here is not just create income, but [also find] a way for families to develop wealth,” Graham said. The idea is to train people, increase their incomes, develop their financial literacy and help them become owners, whether they own a home or a business, he explained.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

At least a third of the Urban League’s workforce participants become homeowners, he said. Since 2012, the Urban League’s clientele has steadily increased to more than 3,400 people served last year. ULCC has an average placement rating of about 75 percent, with an average salary of about $13 an hour. “The Urban League has taken what they do on another level,” said Danielle Frazier, interim president/CEO of Charlotte Works, the workforce development board for Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. “They’ve added training programs. They’re really doing a lot to fill those gaps in the skill sets in the community in the services they’ve provided.” Employers of Urban League graduates include Carolinas Healthcare, Novant, local HVAC companies, banks, Verizon, AT&T and others. Tom Lawrence, executive director of the Leon Levine Foundation added, “They’ve done tremendous work in Charlotte by helping individuals create their own self‑sufficiency.”

“No one likes to invest in risk, but people do invest in opportunity. “People who are actually struggling need to view themselves as an opportunity. People need to view themselves as having value. There’s been a devaluing of Black bodies.” – Patrick Graham

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Students learn the essentials in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program.

The national Urban League has also taken notice. In 2015, the national chapter named the Urban League of the Central Carolinas the most improved affiliate. Graham was named Most Innovative CEO in 2014. One of those innovations was to create the Bank of the Urban League in 2012. The bank has loaned $6.5 million to small African-American businesses. The bank is another example of Graham seeing opportunity where others see risks. Urban League clients are often chronically unemployed, underemployed or displaced workers. Graham said occasionally, college graduates get certifications to make them more employable. The certifications earned at the Urban League are national. Graduates can take their skills anywhere. ULCC is doing more than filling employment gaps. Graham is changing the way people who are in the lower economic class see themselves, and the way the larger community sees them. In 2011, Graham adopted the term “at-opportunity” instead of “at-risk” to describe individuals on the economic precipice. “No one likes to invest in risk, but people do invest in opportunity,” he said. “People who are actually struggling need to view themselves as an opportunity. People need to view themselves as having value. There’s been a devaluing of Black bodies.” ULCC helped Teco Haymon see his value. When Haymon graduated from the HVAC program in December, he had a job offer the next day, and a job by the end of the week, he said. He’s an apartment complex HVAC technician. “It’s everything I dreamed it was going to turn out to be,” Haymon said. “There’s great things that happen inside those walls.” More great things are on the way. The

ULCC will be the lead coordinator for the new Highway Construction Academy for the Charlotte region, which includes eight surrounding counties. This is a partnership with the N.C, Department of Transportation. Graham said the eight-week certification program will allow ULCC to train individuals to do general and highway construction. African Americans have been isolated and pushed out of jobs in those fields, he said. This training is for everyone, from the chronically unemployed to the college graduate. “This is going to allow more of us to take advantage of higher wage, blue-collar jobs,” Graham said. Charlotte’s highway program will be the first of its kind in the region. Graham also plans to target women of color, a group glaringly underrepresented in bluecollar jobs. There will also be a soft-skills component to the highway program. Participants will learn how to keep the job. George Karmley, a Liberian native, knows the value of these skills. An HVAC certification landed him a job in the solar panel field, but the ULCC’s soft skills lessons helped Karmley grow his career. Karmley recently created a labor staffing company. ULCC taught him how to present and market himself. “It just gave me enough confidence to go out there to do well,” he said. Karmley and Haymon make Graham proud. “Many people don’t understand what this little engine can do,” he said, sitting in his office. While talk about economic mobility continues, his little engine on the corner of Fifth and Cedar turns risks into opportunities. P

The Journey of Three Local Entrepreneurs PREMIER PHARMACY AND WELLNESS CENTER Young Entrepreneur Adopts Oldâ€‘School Approach

You might say that by the time Dr. Martez Prince was 16 years old, he already had a vision to open his own pharmacy one day. That is the age at which the Fort Pierce, Florida. native first started working in the industry at an independent pharmacy owned by a graduate of what would later become his alma mater, Florida A&M University. Now,

at the age of 29, the licensed pharmacist is the owner of Premier Pharmacy and Wellness Center. Prince opened his business last October because he wanted to develop a pharmacy that offered personal service and that had a true passion and care for the community. He felt that there was a huge gap between what he was already providing and what the patients needed. He specifically wanted to continue to serve the residents of the Grier Heights and Elizabeth neighborhoods, with whom he had built relationships while working as a pharmacist at a nearby large drugstore chain over the previous five years. When it came time for him to step out on his own, Prince says he felt his

Photos by Bryant

By Angela Lindsay

Martez Prince, owner of Premier Pharmacy and Wellness Center.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

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75x9.875 4c

Photos by Bryant

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patients would care enough to support him. And they did. Premier fills close to 2,000 prescriptions every month. Part of its mission as an independent pharmacy, he explains, is to improve patient outcomes through proper education and medication utilization. To that end, it offers afterhours consultations, genetic testing, health care seminars, vaccinations, follow-up calls and even delivery/shipping options. Uniquely, Premier also extends in-house charge accounts as needed to its mostly elderly patients, many of whom are on fixed incomes, so that they will not have to interrupt their medications because they are waiting for their checks. “We do whatever it takes to guide our patients to greater health,” he says. While he acknowledges that his level of personal free time, especially as a young person, has been greatly altered due to the commitment it takes to run and continually improve his business, Prince is just as clear now about his future goals as he was at age 16—to start a chain of Premier Pharmacy and Wellness Centers in neighborhoods around the world.

NEIGHBORING CONCEPTS Business Veteran Shares Keys to Long-Term Success

4/8/16 4:23 AM

When you’ve been in business for 20 years, you tend to learn a thing or two. Darrel J. Williams, a founding partner of

Photos courtesy of Neighboring Concepts.

Neighboring Concepts, has learned a lot. “One cannot be in business for 20 years without making mistakes and learning some extremely valuable lessons. Regardless of which business you’re in, one can always learn from real-life business experiences,” he says. “The key is to be able to learn and survive in business while gaining that valuable experience. It’s important in any business to have a particular focus, and not try to do everything. Also, spend some time developing a culture and core values for your business to ensure that future hires clearly fit into that culture.” Neighboring Concepts is a multidisciplinary design firm which started out in 1996 as a community planning and development firm, and has evolved into a firm that also provides comprehensive design services for a variety of project types. Its mission is to transform urban, educational and corporate communities— improving overall experiences and quality of life through smart design and responsible planning. Over the past two decades, the firm has racked up a slate of impressive accomplishments, including its role in the transformation of the historic Wesley

Darrel Williams, a founding partner of Neighboring Concepts.

Heights neighborhood and the West Morehead corridor, University Park Baptist Church, the South Corridor Light Rail Stations, Stratford Richardson YMCA, facilities in Romare Bearden Park, the

Harvey B. Gantt Center, Revolution Park Sports Academy, Mosaic Village and the new Renaissance community (formerly Boulevard Homes). “A memorable success is not just the

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May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

Mosaic Village

completion of a project, but when the vision of that project or a community is realized as it was intended by the client, and the users really enjoy various experiences related to that project . We are very proud that we’ve had some involvement in each of Charlotte’s redeveloped public housing projects,” Williams says.

CHARLOTTE LUXURY RENTALS From Football to Fancy Cars For many professional athletes, a pause in their playing days may signal the end of their working days. However, Everett Brown has other ideas. The onetime Carolina Panthers player and current NFL free agent knew he wanted to be a business owner. In fact, his transition from baller to businessman began back in 2012, when his wife, Tenisha, opened their Tropical Smoothie Café franchise in Charlotte while he was still playing in the league. Now, Brown has added another company to his growing empire, Charlotte Luxury Rentals (CLR).

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

CLR is a family-owned luxury car rental brand, providing exclusive vehicles from BMW to Bentley, as well as 24-hour a day VIP concierge service. He says the idea came to him during his travels. “I’ve traveled and played in many cities with different teams, so I had an opportunity to rent luxury cars. I specifically wanted to go into the luxury vehicle business in Charlotte, because there is a need in North Carolina and South Carolina. I really like providing an experience for clients, whether it’s for a wedding, birthday, anniversary or a car enthusiast,” he explains. CLR has been open for a year, and currently has a fleet of three vehicles. Brown plans to add more as demand increases. Wedding season is

the company’s busiest time, during which it is typically booked every weekend. At other times, it averages one to two vehicle rentals per week. Though being an entrepreneur is exciting, Brown says that he takes being business owner just as seriously as he does football, which is why he is currently attending the University of Miami to obtain an executive MBA. “Being an entrepreneur, I have learned so much. But the most important thing is to believe in yourself and stay true to your vision,” he says. “The best advice I would give to others is get involved in a business that you’re interested in and that you like. If I could change anything, I would have found a mentor earlier in the process that had experience.” P

Photos courtesy of Everett Brown.

WWW.PRIMECAREMED.ORG 3627 Beatties Ford Rd. Charlotte NC, 28216

8:30 a.m.

Everett Brown, owner Charlotte Luxury Rentals.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

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The Down Payment Resource Center Try a new online tool that may help make buying a home more affordable.

By Glenda Gabriel Neighborhood Lending Executive, Bank of America

If you’d like to buy a home, but you’re not sure you can afford the up-front costs, you’re not alone. Almost half of first-time homebuyers cite affordability as one of the reasons they’ve delayed the decision to purchase a home. This one factor can be a key barrier that prevents people from becoming homeowners.1 The good news is that Bank of America participates in many down payment and cost savings programs that can make buying a home more affordable. These programs are offered by state and local housing agencies, nonprofit organizations and employers to help eligible homebuyers pay for up-front expenses such as down payment or closing costs.2 And now you can find information about these programs by using the Bank of America Down Payment Resource Center. It’s a web-accessible tool that connects you to information about the programs, in an accessible and easy-to-use way.

According to findings from the second annual America at Home Survey commissioned by NeighborWorks America, 70% of U.S. adults are unaware of down payment assistance programs that are available for middleincome homebuyers in their communities.3

Learn more about programs that may help you buy a home. The Down Payment Resource Center’s searchable database includes information about more than 1,000 programs that could help you get the assistance you need. You can: • Use the online form to search for down payment and cost savings programs you may qualify for that are offered by local housing finance agencies, nonprofit organizations and employers • Review a brief description of the program you may qualify for based on the search in the online tool • Connect with a mortgage specialist to get more information and learn about your next steps You’ll also find links to Bank of America webinars and other resources to help you become more prepared for home buying and homeownership. Get help from a local mortgage specialist. Once you’ve found programs in your area, you can get in touch with a local Bank of America mortgage specialist who has access to a database of each of these programs, with details and contact information. Our mortgage specialists are available to talk with you about your home buying goals and give you a step-by-step demonstration of how the Down Payment Resource Center can help you. To check out everything the Bank of America Down Payment Resource Center has to offer, visit bankofamerica.com/downpaymentcenter.

Bank of America First Time Homebuyer Research 2014. Down payment and/or closing cost assistance programs may not be available in your area. Down payment and/or closing cost assistance amount may be due upon sale, refinance, transfer, or repayment of the loan, or if the senior mortgage is assumed during the term of the loan. Some programs require repayment with interest, and borrowers should become fully informed prior to closing. Not all applicants will qualify. Minimum credit scores may apply. Sales price restrictions and income requirements may apply. Homebuyer education may be required. Owner-occupied properties only. Maximum loan amounts may apply. 3 Second annual America at Home Survey commissioned by NeighborWorks America, October 2014. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2015 Bank of America Corporation. ARMVFLQR 08-2015 AD-07-15-1054 1 2

ccording to a city-data.com 2013 report, 10.6 percent of Charlotte residents live below the poverty line. Among Blacks, however, that number is more than 25 percent. In a city hailed as a banking mecca and with rapid commercial and residential growth, many are still scratching their heads about what to do to combat low income. Recently PRIDE talked to several city residents and asked:

What can we do to help the poor in our community?

Donetta, 19

Curbing

Poverty

“Raising the minimum wage obviously would help progress things for those who fall below the poverty line. Who can initiate the healing process is the city government. They need to start channeling money into the poor community.”

in the Queen City By Charles Kelleher Harris

Joe, 62

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

“More resources for the poor would help. I know, I’m a young mother of two. Free education, tuition and books would make a huge difference.”

Tyrone, 47

“I think there should be mandatory high school graduation. Because nowadays, kids are free to drop out at 16 and then they have no future. I also think there should be free job training, more skilled labor, less unemployment.”

“Poverty is passed from one generation to the next. Better education and economic security are ways to the break the cycle. Having better trained teachers, building new schools and breaking down barriers that prevent children from attending certain schools will stop poverty. Coordination and cooperation from the government and communities are critical for transparent, accountable and effective delivery of a solution.”

James, 61 “It starts from the top down. City leaders need to make sure that everybody has the same opportunities. It doesn’t matter who you are. Half of what people have, they didn’t get themselves.”

“We need better jobs and better income. Most of the people aren’t working for a living wage. It would do wonders for this city.”

Shelia, 58

Paris, 26

Roderick, 27 “Professional development training. [Charlotte] is more of a corporate job environment and a lot of people don’t offer on-thejob training. Companies need to create more opportunities. [But] individuals have to do their due diligence.”

“One thing that would help is education. Educated Blacks build communities that incubate wealth. Poor Blacks build neighborhoods, and when you take away the neighbors, you just have ‘hoods. People fall behind and it’s a mess. I’m not an addict and I’ve never been to jail, but I’ve been homeless for four years.”

Richard, 58

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

MakingItCount

goHire

Program Prepares Students for Success

Tasha Burke

By Edward Henderson

he transition from college life to corporate culture can be difficult. One day, your greatest concern is getting to the cafeteria before the macaroni and cheese runs out. The next, you’re sweating bullets trying to decide if telling a story about undergraduate antics is appropriate at your company’s holiday party. Tasha Burke of T Burke and Associates is doing her part to prepare graduating students for the

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

nuances of corporate America with her goHire program. One of the key things Burke teaches students in her program is to have a strong sense of who you are and what your purpose is. The Raleigh native can attest to the importance of this concept through her own struggles coming to grips with what she would do with her life after graduating from UNC Greensboro. Burke majored in business administration with a concentration

in business marketing and minor in communications. She wanted to excel in many different areas of business, but had a difficult time deciding which direction to go in. Burke eventually landed a job in Charlotte with a pharmaceutical sales company, but she knew deep inside it wasn’t her passion. “You can find yourself moving around and you know in your heart you don’t belong there, but you’re there because you need to learn something,” Burke said. “It

“I wanted to make sure that I could hone in and prepare students for opportunities where they could be taken seriously. I make sure that they understand how to accurately but individually present themselves in the best possible light.”

Burke interacting with students At Winston‑Salem State this year.

– Tasha Burke could be something they need to teach you or something that you need to develop and show them.” After year and a half, the company downsized and Burke found herself unemployed for the first time. “It wasn’t even scary for me. I knew it wasn’t the end-all,” Burke said. A church sermon discussing the natural gifts and talents we have as individuals sparked an idea in Burke to reevaluate what her true talents and purpose were. She came to the conclusion that it was recruiting and communications. She decided she would start her own recruiting company, T Burke and Associates, which is now in its 10th year of operation. While on a recruiting trip at a university career fair for a client, Burke found only one resume she felt comfortable endorsing the entire day. The experience showed her that there was a huge preparation gap between the graduating senior and the young professional. Burke decided to write a college recruiting program focusing on young women and minority students, called goHire, which she launched in 2015. UNC Charlotte and Johnson C. Smith University served as pilot schools for the program. “I wanted to make sure that I could hone in and prepare students for opportunities where they could be taken seriously,” Burke said. “I make sure that they understand how to accurately but individually present themselves in the best possible light.” Workshops focus on topics including resume building, workplace etiquette and how to evaluate job offers. At the end of series, goHire brings in community leaders

to volunteer time for mock interviews, to allow students to showcase the skills they’ve learned. Seventy-one students took part in the six- to eight-week program, and 31 completed all the workshops. Eighty-six percent of goHire participants landed full-time jobs with corporations such as Amazon and Wells Fargo. Other students

went to graduate school or became exchange students. Kathy Lazo, a licensed financial consultant at TIAA Financial Services, attended the program at JCSU. “The goHire program was one of the most real and beneficial career development experiences of my life. It allowed me to understand that there are professional standards that I must be aware of. It also helped me always push myself to go above and beyond my limits and goals. I absolutely feel blessed to know Tasha,” Lazo said. This year, goHire has extended its programing to Shaw University and Winston-Salem State University. While Burke has developed a curriculum based on efficiency and detail, she still encourages students to be themselves throughout the hiring process. “You can be professional and still have a little individuality in your presentation,” she said. “The organization who respects who you are as a person is the right organization for you, versus just trying to fit in with them.” P

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SceneandSeen

Project Orange Charity Fundraiser at Studio Movie Grill Photos by Mike Johnson and Lonnie Gregory

Johnson C. Smith University/Historic West End Special Event Series - Easter Soul Celebration Photos by Christian Taylor

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PrideBusiness

Innovation at Work

Self-taught Jean Maker Creates Anarchy with Denim By Tonya Jameson Photos by Jonathan Copper

o most people, a pair of jeans is simply another piece of clothing. To Stan Fraser, jeans are storytellers: the way the fabric bunches above shoes, wrinkles behind knees or leaves an imprint on a pocket that held a wallet for years. Every tear, fade, color variation and other embellishment on a pair of custommade jeans tells a story. As the owner of Stitch & Co., a custom denim store, Fraser helps people create jeans that tell their personal stories. Fraser, 44, opened his store on Cedar Street beside Draught in 2013. Straight Stitch, the name of the store, looks like any other high-end denim boutique. Inside, there are wooden shelves laden with all types of jeans; giant wall-sized posters of beautiful people wearing denim adorn the walls. There’s an accessory shelf with wallets and jewelry. Bags range from denim duffle bags to purses. One conversation with Fraser, however, and you quickly learn that Straight Stitch is more than just a jeans store. Fraser’s passion is contagious, educational and a little overwhelming. “It’s like ice cream to me,” Fraser said about his love for all things custom denim. Straight Stitch specializes in bespoke Japanese selvedge denim, which is a type of raw denim made on vintage looms. It’s stiff and not prewashed. He branded his jeans Anarke. The label name reflects his philosophy of chaos inspiring creativity. The name also describes how Fraser started making custom jeans. He taught himself how to sew by watching his mother, a seamstress for Ralph Lauren and others, and mostly through trial and error. He’s been hand-stitching jeans since he was in junior high school in Brooklyn. Over the years, he sold jeans from his home, and later in New York boutiques. Demand often outpaced his production capability, so he quit. He joined the Navy and was stationed in Virginia. After moving to Charlotte 10 years ago, he started a home renovation business and later a commercial cleaning business

DENIM TERMINOLOGY Stacking – Fading that occurs when jeans bunch above the shoe. Stan Fraser

Honeycomb – The wrinkle effect behind the knee. Whiskers – Thin fading lines formed from creases, usually found on the front pocket area.

with his brother-in-law. He was even a commercial truck diver. Yet, he couldn’t stop talking about denim. “It’s the process that I adore,” he said wistfully, sitting on a chair in his store. “You take raw cotton and make it into this fabric.”

Customers can choose thread color, buttons and pocket style on a custom pair of denim jeans.

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

HIS APRON

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With his wife’s blessing, Fraser made his dream a reality. He took a voluntary Every mark, crease layoff from his trucking gig. and pinhole on his He used the separation money apron tells a story. to open Straight Stitch. The “My apron shows front of the 1,100-square-foot everything I do on space is a showroom and store. a daily basis. It’s Fraser made the shelves from actually living,” he reclaimed wood. He built other said. “It’s going to shelves from recycled materials fade away and die.” such as pipes and chains. The workshop is in the back. Customers can see Fraser, wearing his denim apron, cutting fabric and measuring on his worktable. His wife, Robin, quit her job to work with him full‑time. She encouraged him to open his own store after he became frustrated working with New York boutiques. His jeans often sold out, he said, but boutique owners put them in the back of their stores. “Having clothes in other stores, you can’t regulate how they sell it,” Robin said. Fraser opened here because rent is cheaper than in New York and the market is fertile. He’s already expanding through personal connections to Switzerland and Paris. In the United States, customers find him on social media and travel here for custom jeans. “In New York, you’re a dime a dozen,” he said. “No one’s doing this in Charlotte. No one’s making jeans from scratch.” Most of Fraser’s customers live in Charlotte. They aren’t denim enthusiasts. They have no clue where to start or what to expect. First, he tells them to lower • Hand-wash and hang dry. their expectations. Raw selvedge feels different that typical American denim. • If you dry clean, request that Custom jeans have imperfections just like chemicals not be used. shelf denim. He asks customers to determine how • 14 ounces is a popular weight for they will wear the jeans, casual or business most selvedge denim wearers. casual. How do they want the jeans to fit? Customers choose thread color, buttons and pocket style. Rolls of denim hang from a wall on the left corner of the store, next to the fitting cubby. Customers can feel the fabric and determine the color and weight of their denim. “I want them to dictate how the jeans come out, the look and the fit,” he said. “You choose every step of this jean. They see the process from start to finish.” He calls his jeans a blank canvas, because they aren’t made with pre-faded spots, rips, painted-on paint drops or machine-created wrinkles and marks. Those embellishments come with time and wear. Back wall inside the denim haven located on They tell the story. P

CUSTOM JEANS TIPS

Cedar Street. Jewelry enlarged to show detail. Items displayed are one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale.

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PrideBusiness

By Terry Colen

3 Keys to Small Business Success Having a business card is not enough

ow many of us have attended a network event and come home with an assortment of business cards with impressive-sounding titles and occupations? Now ask yourself how many of those people did you actually contact later and do business with? If you are like me, many of the business cards end up in the trash without any attempt to contact the people named. Why? Because having a successful business is a lot more than just handing people business cards. You need to be able to make them want to call you because they have a need for what you do, and trust that you are able to deliver on what it is you are marketing to them. Before I touch on the three keys successful business owners have in common, let me first tell you what I define as success. Success to me is being able to do something you love while helping others, that eventually leads to sustainable income for yourself. That income is what allows you to provide for yourself and your family, while also providing you with the ability to do the things in life that are most important to you. As a wealth manager for more than 25 years and a business owner, I have found three keys most successful entrepreneurs have in common, and I will share them with you.

Key 1: Be really good at something. All of the successful entrepreneurs I know are really good at what they do. Nobody is going to pay you to do something they can do themselves! Before starting out on your own, do an

honest assessment of your own skill set. This is known as SWOT analysis. Finding your strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats are the first step. Improve your weaknesses by either working for someone else until you master your skills by learning from someone already doing it at a high level, or take courses from experts to improve. One great resource is the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SCORE Association, supported by SBA, is a nonprofit association of thousands of volunteer business counselors throughout the United States and its territories that offers free mentoring, online classes and local classroom education, including business plan writing, that is absolutely free.

Key 2: Write a business plan. All of the successful business owners I have worked with wrote some sort of business plan. According to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, after just three years in business, more than 58 percent of start-ups are no longer in business, with more than 25 percent failing in the first year alone, I’m sure many of these business planned on being in business forever, but the facts don’t lie. If you don’t have a clear vison of the company you are trying to create, you can’t possibly expect to succeed. Writing a business plan helps you get clarity. Your plan should at least identify who you are, what legal requirements are needed, what your expenses will be, how much you will charge and why people should choose you over other alternatives. It’s clear to me

that without a written plan, most are just planning to fail.

Key 3: Be prepared to work long hours. I don’t know why so many people think that working for yourself is easy. Most successful entrepreneurs I have encountered work long hours, as they are in charge of everything from tech support to marketing. Until they are able to afford to pay others to do these things, they are the ones working late and hard, especially in the early years of their businesses. It is their passion and love for what they do that keeps them going. My dad once told me that the average man works 40 hours per week. The above-average man work both longer and smarter! You will need to plan on the same, which is why you first need the passion for your work so those extra hours don’t really feel like work. Don’t forget to focus on satisfying your customers first and foremost, as they are the lifeblood of your business. Finally, you must continuously educate yourself on industry trends and business improvements, or face becoming obsolete. This list is not meant to be an all‑inclusive list of what is needed to be a successful business owner, but simply to be a starting point for those thinking about going into business for themselves. Many factor determine the success or failure of a business, but in my opinion, they all share these key facts. Terry Colen, CRPC®, Business Owner and Wealth Manager at Blackbridge Financial

May-June 2016 | Pride Magazine

PrideBusiness FYI

By Edward Henderson

Charlotte Center City Partners Honors Sarah Stevenson at 2016 Vision Awards

Last month, Sarah Stevenson received the Settlers Award at the Charlotte Center City Partners Vision Awards. The Settlers Award honors center city businesses, institutions or retailers who have been key contributors to Center City’s quality of life. Stevenson has been viewed as a pioneer and leader in the city of Charlotte for more than 60 years through public service, the founding of the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Forum and as a respected Historic West End elder. The forum shares information of importance to the African-American community by hosting speakers in a variety of disciplines. The annual honor is intended to recognize and celebrate the contributions of individuals, businesses and organizations that have made the Center City a more vibrant urban core.

INSP Promotes Tara Brown to Director of Media Relations After a successful career with two publishing houses, Penguin Books and HarperCollinsPublishers, Tara Brown spent several years as a freelancer. She has implemented campaigns across multiple genres for prominent authors including former Senator Gary Hart, former Congressman J.C. Watts, Rev. Al Green and Lisa Scottoline. Her efforts resulted in numerous projects being named to national and New York Times bestseller’s lists. Brown has been named director of media relations at INSP and will also be tasked with managing public relations and communications for several of INSP’s subsidiaries, including INSP Films, a theatrical motion picture production company, and Imagicomm Entertainment, LLC, a content distribution company. She is a member of Women in Cable Telecommunications, National Association for MultiEthnicity in Communications and the Association of Cable Communicators. www.TheInstituteNC.org.

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Duke Energy Grants $35,000 to ‘The Institute’ for HBCU Leadership Exchange Earlier this year, The Institute received a grant for $35,000 from Duke Energy to support its HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Leadership Workforce Development Exchange program. The Institute is a nonprofit management consulting firm focused on business diversity, providing customized one-on-one assistance, training and business solutions to create globally competitive companies. Housed within The Institute’s policy center, the HBCU Leadership Exchange focuses on building stronger partnerships between HBCUs and key executives of major corporations and minority businesses. The primary goal of the HBCU Leadership Exchange is to strengthen workforce opportunities for students enrolled fulltime or part-time at HBCUs, and to foster relationship-building and internship or employment opportunities with corporations that are expanding their hiring activities. The initiative will launch in the spring of 2016, with support from faculty members at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School in Chapel Hill.

Eugene A. Woods Named President and CEO of Carolinas Healthcare System Eugene A. Woods is the incoming president and chief executive officer of Carolinas HealthCare System, where he will oversee one of the most comprehensive and highly integrated health care systems in the nation. Prior to this appointment, he has been president and chief operating officer of CHRISTUS Health, based in Irving, Texas, a position he has held since June 2011. There, his responsibilities have included overseeing acute, post-acute and international operations for CHRISTUS Health’s facilities in the United States, Mexico and Chile. CHRISTUS Health has more than 50 hospitals and long-term care facilities, 175 clinics and outpatient centers, and 30,000 associates. Carolinas HealthCare System, based in Charlotte, has more than 60,000 full-time and part-time employees. They provide care through more than 11.5 million patient encounters per year at more than 900 care locations in North and South Carolina.

PrideHealth

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Saved My Feet

By W. Mamie Johnson

ccording to research conducted by American Diabetes Association, kidney disease is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. A large portion of African-American and Hispanic Americans are impacted by diabetes and uncontrolled high blood pressure. These two health conditions are the primary causes of kidney disease and kidney failure. I was a successful training development specialist, and traveled throughout the United States providing computer-based training to personnel and disbursing clerks for selected naval bases across the country. To me, this was a “dream job,” because it gave me the opportunity to travel and get paid. My career was very active: on-the-go schedule, airplane flights, team meetings and motivational speaking engagements to young people as well as adults. In 1995, I developed type II diabetes; however, I worked and maintained the same schedule as though I was a completely healthy individual. I changed my diet and took medications and visited my doctors every six month. I thought to myself, diabetes is an easy challenge to manage.

Discovery of Kidney Failure

Early in 2007, I began to feel very badly. I was on sick leave for about a week, and my primary care doctor arranged an appointment with my current nephrologist. During my first consultation, I learned I was in acute kidney failure. The news was a blow to my emotional well-being. After I stayed in the hospital for five days, the doctor worked diligently to lower my blood pressure, blood sugar level and get my acute kidney failure under control. As my hemodialysis (kidney dialysis) progressed, I had to get a better access fistula (surgically made passage between two hollow or tubular organs), so my treatments would reflect better blood cleaning. Healing from the fistula operations was slow. Additionally,

I was battling an infection on my feet caused by diabetes.

Referral to Wound and Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBOT) Therapy Centers

I was referred to the Wound and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. HBOT is a treatment that increases the amount of oxygen in a patient’s blood. This increase of oxygen flows easily to the plasm to promote healing to slow-healing and open wounds. I participated in HBOT therapy for 30 consecutive days, 3 1/2 hours per day. It feels like being inside a glass casket but it didn’t bother me. They had a television outside the chamber you could watch, so I focused on that. The timewent by pretty fast and it’s very relaxing. At the end of my therapy, all my wounds had healed completely. Other FDA-approved treatment indications for HBOTs include diabetic ulcers, air or gas embolisms, burns, exceptional blood loss, anemia and carbon monoxide poisoning. The diabetic ulcers on my feet were treated by doctors and nurses with specialized training in wound-care healing. Their techniques are aggressive, with the focus on healing, not amputation. Debridement is a

technique used by wound-care professionals. Debridement involves removing dead tissue from wounds, to allow new tissue to grow. The most appealing aspect of wound centers and HBOT therapies is that the health care professionals do not consider amputation an option. In my case, these therapies (1) enhanced my hemodialysis treatment; (2) made me able to tolerate hemodialysis better because my wounds were healed and (3) freed my mind of any additional amputations. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Wound-Care Therapy are not widely known throughout the African-American community as treatment options. Hopefully, my story will inform and enlighten you on the treatment value. Consult your doctor for additional information. Since the completion of these treatments, I’m able to resume a limited schedule of speaking, participating in family gatherings, driving to dialysis and grocery shopping. Since I’ve been feeling better, I take more care in my personal appearance, and my outlook on life is more positive. We all have the choice of getting on with the business of life, no matter what health challenges we face. By having a positive attitude, when walking the hard road, we become brave soldiers on the battlefield. P W. Mamie Johnson, 69, lives in Knoxville, TN.

EventsCalendar

Mark Your Calendar By Shawn Allison

Greetings, salutations, peace, aloha and hello to all! With summer right around the corner, we’ve found a diverse list of events for you to indulge in to kick off the warm weather season. May 7

Take a rhythmic trip across the border to Central and South America and prepare to feel the indigenous grooves of “Dancing through Latin America.” Experience dance and musical styles originating from the Caribbean, Central and South America, Spain and parts of Africa. Tickets are $8-15. The McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square. www.blumenthalarts.org 704‑372-1000.

May 21

For all of you diehard hip hop heads, break out your Adidas track suits, shell toes, Pumas, four rings and gold rope chains and come to “Off the Wall.” Started by local DJ/promotion crew the JETA Team, Off the Wall is an “experience for the musically deprived,” featuring the best of golden era hip hop, R&B, soul, pop, rock and other flyness of yesteryear. Every third Saturday, (also June 18) come out to Petra’s Piano Bar ready to relive the classics of your youth. From the Dungeon Family to the Native Tongues to the Wu-Tang Clan...these guys spin ALL the good sounds. www.facebook.com/ StereoType704/?fref=ts

May 28

May 13

Gear your ears toward the stage as one of contemporary music’s most unsung and prolific vocalists, Rachelle Ferrell, graces the stage in a one-night-only performance. Not only is she an immensely gifted singer with broad and striking vocal ability, Ferrell is also an accomplished and versatile instrumentalist, showcasing prowess on the violin and on the 88 ivory keys. “An Evening With Rachelle Ferrell” will be at the Knight Theater. Ticket prices and additional information can be found at: www.carolinatix. org, 704-372-1000.

If you’re looking to break away from the “musical norm” in the Queen City, direct your eyes and groove your hips down to Petra’s Piano Bar for Su Casa, defined as “Charlotte’s monthly oasis for the culturally starved.” Every month there is not only a different theme, but also a new level of euphoria. If you want venture into the musical depths of Afrobeat, house, Brazilian, Caribbean, Rare Grooves, calypso, reggae, Latin jazz, soul, South African house, funk and more outside-of-the-radio music, this is the event for you. Su Casa is every fourth Saturday (also June 25). 1919 Commonwealth Ave.

June 1-11

There are many stages in the Charlotte area, and for

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OnQ Productions—the only Black-owned and operated theater production company between Chocolate City (Washington, D.C.) and the ATL (Atlanta) -- the stage is home. The company is in its sixth season. The theme here is “Adaptation.” And for its final performance of this season, come and experience the adaptation of one of Black literature’s greatest works— Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye.” Tickets are $28 and can be purchased at: http:// www.carolinatix.orgeye. All performances will be held at the Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square. 704-372-1000.

June 12

If you’re into vintage and rare Black films, join Classic Black Cinema Series at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture for a screening of “The River Niger,” starring James Earl Jones, Glynn Turman, Cicely Tyson and Louis Gossett, Jr. Classic Black Cinema Series, created by Felix Curtis, is to create a resurgence of appreciation for Black cinema. Visit www.ganttcenter.org for additional information.

June 13 – 17

Parents, if your children have expressed an interest in jazz, enroll them in the 2016 Jazz Arts Summer Music Camp. Presented by the Jazz Arts Initiative, this class is designed to help students from grades seven through 12 grade hone their skills and acquire a stronger appreciation for jazz. Whatever instrument your children play, they will be under the guidance of acclaimed jazz instructors and performers. The Jazz Arts Music Camp will run from Payments and additional information at www.thejazzarts.org or call 704‑336-9350

June 16-19

Returning for its 19th consecutive year is the Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas. Bring the tribe out for a weekend full of art, music, dancing, food, youth seminars, health screenings, lectures, vendors and above all Black pride and unity and Unity. Independence Park. www. juneteenthofthecarolinas.com/

June 5

Soul brother Gregory Porter slides into the Queen City for a one-night-only performance. Porter is a brilliant vocalist with jazz/soul-inspired roots. Signed to the premier jazz record label Blue Note, this crooner has garnered a fan base that is steadily growing. Knight Theater. Tickets at www.carolinatix.org or call 704-372-1000

June 17-19

Get ready for an all-out spectacle of music, humor, color, innovation, rhythm and more, because the Blue Man Group is coming to Charlotte. www.carolinatix. org, 704‑372‑1000

March 1- May 31 Get Involved, Get Green, Get Moving & Get It Clean

For more info or to get involved call 980.314.3862 or email Jake.Wilson@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov

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