Pride Magazine/Cam Newton on cover

January-February 2014

The Men's Issue

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

PRESENTS

Cam suits up ... on and off the field

New treatment for prostate cancer

Greg Johnson is THE ad man

CIAA Tournament calendar inside

IT’S GOOD TO SAVE MONEY WITHOUT HAVING TO HUNT AROUND. That’s just my two cents.

to the future

to each other

Life’s better when we’re connected TM

to giving back

We know we’re not the center of your life, but we’ll do our best to help you connect to what is.

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. © 2013 Bank of America Corporation. AR397459

bankofamerica.com/connect

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January-February 2014

Departments 10 From the CEO 12 Notable Names 14 The Mindful Parent 15 Family Notes 16 By Faith 18 Good Life 20 Book Review 38 Scene and Seen 40 Belk Fashion

24

26

32

52

58 Events Calendar

Business 46 Spotlight

Supreme Sweepers

50 FYI News & Notes

Health 52 Cancer Care

New treatment for prostate

54 Eye Care

Hand-eye coordination

56 Fast Facts

On the

Web:

African-American health statistics

Features 22 L ooking

24 Image

innovator

Greg Johnson leads BooneOakley

26 Blacks

good

MADE Cam Newton

among the blazes

Charlotte fire captain shares history, honor

On the Cover

The Carolina Panthers quarterback models a suit from the MADE Cam Newton collection, available at select Belk stores and on Belk.com. The line was launched in 2012.

Q & A with Jacqui Carpenter

How is she handling being the first female commissioner for the CIAA? Find out in our Q & A. 28 Male

30

mentors get face to face

Community leaders care about the future of black teens

UCity sports ‘hero’

Andre Clark mentors children at the Y

32 South

End is a splash of hip

Light rail corridor leaps with life

42 Growing

wealth

African-American financial advisors are in demand

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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Strengthening our supply chain through diversity Good for our community. Good for our customers. Good for business.

We recognize that a diverse supply chain connects us to our communities and enhances our ability to earn customer loyalty and achieve our business goals. We’re making that happen and forming relationships with key diversity councils that support minority-owned and women-owned businesses in order to encourage economic development and improved competition within the supply chain.

If you are a minority- or women-owned business interested in doing business with Belk, please register at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BelkSupplierDiversity - or scan the QR code with your smartphone

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Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

Watchdog Entertainment www.watchdog-ent.com

Pride Magazine prints with soy ink.

Vol. 22 No. 1 January-February 2014 All rights reserved for PRIDE Communications Inc.

Find us on Facebook Facebook.com/NCPrideMagazine

Title Sponsor

presents Presented by

Supporting Sponsors

with

Lowe’s Pride Awards 2014 will be a celebration of business diversity in the Charlotte region. A minority owned business, a youth entrepreneur and a supplier diversity champion will be recognized for their outstanding work performance. We will partner with the Charlotte Knights to make this year’s gala a home run!

Saturday, January 18, 2014 Westin Charlotte Black Tie Reception - 6 PM Dinner and Awards - 7 PM Log on to www.prideawards.net to view the 2014 winners and for exciting updates.

Call 704-375-9553 to reserve seating now!

The

GAME-CHANGING

WINNERS are...

PRIDE MBE OF DISTINCTION PRIDE TEEN ENTREPRENEUR OF DISTINCTION Metro Transportation Floyd Mason, Jr. Services, LLC Kendall Taylor, COO represented by

Floyd is a senior at David Butler High School and president and owner of Teens 2 Clean Office & Janitorial.

Metro provides individual, courier and freight transportation, warehouse logistics and materials delivery services to consumer and business clients throughout the Southeast.

PRIDE 2014 NONPROFIT RECIPIENT Queen City Forward Charles Thomas, Executive Director represented by

As a social innovation accelerator and incubator, Queen City Forward’s mission is to unleash the potential of high-growth, high-impact entrepreneurs.

PRIDE CORPORATE BUSINESS DIVERSITY CHAMPION Enterprise Holdings Mark Richardson, Regional Vice President represented by

Founded in 1957 by Jack Taylor, Enterprise Holdings opened its first North Carolina office in Charlotte in 1985, on South Blvd. They now have more than 600 employees and over 40 operations in Charlotte and the surrounding area.

PRIDE AWARDS GAME CHANGER SPEAKER Sunil Erevelles, Ph.D.

Erevelles specializes in the Future of Innovation and the Creation of Strategic Advantage for the Future and is Chairman of the Department of Marketing at the Belk College of Business at UNC-Charlotte.

TO BE A PART OF THIS EXTRAORDINARY GALA, CALL

704-375-9553

TO RESERVE YOUR SEATING NOW. More info: www.prideawards.net

FromTheCEO

by Dee Dixon

Baseball and boogie presents

G

reetings, everyone!

I’m reeling from the speed at which 2013 flew by and, as usual, delving into the New Year with uncertainty.

There are 1099s to get out and taxes to file. We must find health insurance, sell with advertising and, of course, collect money. As always, Pride has feature stories to secure for upcoming issues and events to manage … as well as a bevy of other personal issues with which to contend.

Will someone shoot me an email and remind me God is in charge of our affairs? I would appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

A brand new ball game for the Pride Awards

The Lowe’s Pride Awards is back for year No. 21, and it’s definitely going to be a “Triple-A” evening. This year’s gala has a completely different twist, as we take a big swing at celebrating minority business success, supplier diversity AND baseball, with the help of the Charlotte Knights.

Small companies are thriving in Charlotte thanks to a prosperous economy and a booming minority population. In fact, according to American City Business Journals, Charlotte ranks No. 4 out of 100 of the largest metros in the U.S for the creation and development of small businesses. Though ethnic businesses already play a role in boosting Charlotte’s economic engine, our leaders know it’s quintessential for the city to understand the characteristics of these minority businesses and learn the challenges and opportunities they face so that they may continue to thrive.

That’s why the theme of the Lowe’s Pride Awards 2014 is “Changing the Game with Business Diversity.” Our goal is to shine the spotlight on businesses and corporations in Charlotte that are already game-changers when it comes to business diversity, and to encourage and educate those that are not. And to be sure, we have three clutch players (winners) who have scored big time.

We really, really want you to come out and see what they have accomplished and meet the “Pride Dream Team.” These are our crackerjack sponsors that are at the top of their game when it comes to business diversity and inclusion in Charlotte. Indeed, they are the bread and butter for this year’s gala, starting with our title sponsor once again — Lowe’s Companies, Inc. — followed by our presenting sponsors Carolinas HealthCare System, Bank of America and Wells Fargo.

The Dream Team is made complete with Compass Group North America, Food Lion, BB&T, Belk, Husqvarna Group, TIAA-CREF, TPM Consulting, Inc., The Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Knights Baseball, CVMSDC, Radio One, Duke Energy and NBC Charlotte/ WCNC-TV. Hip Hip Hooray! This Dream Team is the best of the best.

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Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

The ball will be in play at The Westin Charlotte promptly at 6 p.m. Don’t get left on the sidelines. You will miss several innings of back-to-back excitement. Gowns and tuxedos ready? Game face on? Let’s play ball!

More focus on the Black family/kids video dance contest

We received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from our November 2013 issue, featuring Duke Energy Executive Brett Carter and his beautiful wife and family.

Our readers loved it, and we plan to put more emphasis on our families and children in 2014.

Pride will share information on trends, statistics, things to do, places to go and education. We’ll even share our own successes, as well as opportunities we all have to change for the better.

As Charlotte continues to be a draw for people who want to raise their families here, we want Pride Magazine to be the go-to guide when they are looking for multicultural activities. We have kicked off our family focus with Pride Kid’s Dance “My Baby Can Boogie” Video Contest. If you haven’t heard about this already, there’s still time for you to enter your tot. Log onto www.pridemagazine.net for details, or see ad on page 57. We will launch our family focus in the March issue and announce the dance contest winner.

This all started with a video my daughter took of my grandson, Chase, dancing. This kid can dance! I believe his video is still posted — take a peek. Too bad he’s ineligible to participate in the contest, because I KNOW he would win. (lol)

Home buying seminar next month

Start 2014 with wealth building in mind by joining us on February 22 for Living With Pride’s first (FREE) seminar on buying a home. First-time or experienced home-owners are welcome. Details are on page 39. Come on out and bring a friend.

We’ll even feed you!

Take care,

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.

On the LYNX Blue Line project, for example, CATS spent $42.9 million with 38 DBE firms to build the new light rail system.

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.

NotableNames

by Bea Quirk

MARK DUNN

A graduate of the first Emerging Business Leaders Program sponsored by the Charlotte Chamber last spring, Mark Dunn wears two professional hats. He is an ordained minister, serving as youth pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church, and he also is a manager in the Learning and Organizational Department at the Carolinas HealthCare System. In 2012, he received CHS’ prestigious Pinnacle Award — a top individual teammate honor.

Dunn, 37, was honored for his role in creating CHS’s Men’s Diversity and Leadership Networking Group. In June 2012, the group hosted a Men’s Health Awareness Forum that attracted more than 300 people.

“Lives were saved because of the program, and we want to make it bigger and better next time,” says Dunn.

A second generation preacher, Dunn graduated with a communications degree from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he played football on an athletic scholarship.

He later earned a graduate degree there in Organizational Change and Leadership. Dunn worked for Wachovia and DecisionOne Mortgage before joining CHS. Dunn’s classmates in the Emerging Leaders Program chose him to be their graduation speaker. “The common thread in my life is the ability to impact the community,” he says. “I bring my whole self into everything I do — spiritually, physically and mentally.”

He and his wife, Uconda, have a 2-year-old son.

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G. DEWEY NORWOOD, JR.

Since joining Wells Fargo (then First Union National Bank) in 1998 directly after college, Dewey Norwood has worked in five different lines of business: Capital Management, Corporate Communications, Securities and Investment, Investment Banking and Capital Markets and, now, Community Affairs.

Currently, as a vice president on the Strategic Philanthropy and National Partnership Team at Wells Fargo, Norwood, 39, works with 12 national nonprofits.

These include the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Hispanic Scholarship Fund.

“I have found a company where I can grow and that’s interested in helping me grow.

When opportunities have come up, I have evaluated them and found ways to transfer my skills,” says Norwood. “I believe in the company — its vision and values resonate with the beliefs I have.

It’s been a blessing.”

A native of New York City (and still a Mets fan), Norwood came to Charlotte as a child, attending East Mecklenburg High School and then graduating from Providence Day School and UNC-Charlotte, where he played baseball and earned a degree in political science.

Norwood is a member of the board of the Stratford Richardson YMCA and the Cam Newton Foundation. He and his wife, Amanda, are the parents of two teenagers.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

CARLOS WITHERSPOON Even as child growing up in Winston-Salem, Carlos Witherspoon was intrigued by information technology.

“I was fascinated by how things worked — I loved taking things apart and putting them back together. When I took my first IT class in high school, I realized it could make our lives easier and better,” he says. “I knew it was what fit for me.”

Witherspoon, 41, graduated from UNC-Charlotte with a degree in Management Information Systems. He currently is the technical support manager at Compass Group, where he is responsible for managing 40 staff members in Charlotte, New York and Alabama. Before joining Compass Group in 2001, he worked for five years for Transamerica.

He said he decided to make Charlotte his home because there were better opportunities for young professionals and young families.

Last year, he participated in the Charlotte Chamber’s first Emerging Business Leaders Program. “It helped me see the leadership capability I had inside me and helped me to bring it out.

It’ll help me improve in both my personal and professional life.”

Outside of work, Witherspoon, an avid runner, spends much of his time volunteering for Right Moves for Youth. He has played a leadership role in putting on its primary annual fundraiser, the Twilight 5K Run/Walk, since 2003.

Witherspoon has two teenage daughters.

HARLEY THOMAS

Growing up in the small rural town of Linden, Ala., Harley Thomas never imagined he’d be living the life he is leading.

In 2003, he graduated from Tuskegee University with an engineering degree. To help finance his education, he joined ROTC and became a commissioned officer in the Army after graduation. During his fouryear military stint, he served a year in Iraq.

He mustered out in 2007 and joined CB&I, a world leader in energy infrastructure. Today, he is a project manager for the V.C. Summer Units 2 and 3 in Jenkinsville, S.C. “Coming from a small town, these have all been eye-opening experiences. However, I have never lost sight of my humble beginnings in Alabama,” says Thomas. He explains that serving in Iraq, for example, “took me out of my comfort zone, but enabled me to grow and helped me learn a lot about myself.”

When it comes to his job, Thomas says people are amazed he does “something so interesting.” He has participated in the Chamber’s Emerging Business Leaders Program and had the opportunity to network with business men and women from various industries and learned a lot about leadership in the corporate environment.

“I realized that I may be young, but I have a lot of potential,” adds Thomas.

He and his wife, Freda, have two preschool children.

Boosting economic development:

Belk Supplier Diversity initiatives build partnerships, seek innovative ideas

B

business enterprises in the Charlotte market and building corporate diversity excellence. The initiative is led by the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and the Carolinas Minority Supplier Development Council.

elk’s Supplier Diversity initiative has focused on expanding the company’s use of nationally certified women- and minorityowned businesses since its launch in 2009. The retailer has increased its spending with diverse businesses by 96percent in the last year. It also seeks the innovative ideas that diverse suppliers bring to the company to improve and grow its business.

Belk is sponsoring two minorityowned businesses through this program: Network Cabling Solutions, a cabling supplier, and Greenspeed Energy Solutions, a sustainable energy solutions supplier. Both suppliers have successfully grown their businesses through participation in the initiative.

“Supplier Diversity at Belk is a strategic initiative that aligns with our corporate commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Adam Orvos, chief financial officer.“ Belk fosters strong business relationships with minority and women-owned businesses that offer a competitive advantage through their products and services. To be successful, all Belk business units have been challenged to do their part to develop partnerships with diverse businesses. Through this initiative, we’re stimulating economic development in the communities we serve and strengthening our brand.”

Community outreach has been a key component of the retailer’s Supplier Diversity initiative. Belk is one of 14 companies participating in the Charlotte Minority Economic Development Initiative (CMEDI), aimed at promoting and developing minority

Eboni Hayes

If your company is interested in partnering with Belk, please contact supplierdiversity@belk.com.

“We were not doing retail stores until we started working with Belk/CMEDI, which also includes us working in Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.”

– Network Cabling

This past fall, Belk partnered with Lowe’s Companies and the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce to host the Retail Marketplace; a collaborative effort organized by Belk and Lowe’s Supplier Diversity Program offices focused on educating small and diverse businesses on best practices of doing business with large retailers.

“Belk is dedicated to building relationships with diverse businesses and our community events help us find new partners to help us deliver innovative solutions to our customers,” said Eboni Haynes, director, Supplier Diversity.

“Greenspeed Energy increased sales by 20 percent year over year through the program.”

– Greenspeed Energy Solutions January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

13

TheMindfulParent

by Christina Christian

Are your children ready

to fly like eagles?

W

e talk about animal instincts, and we believe we are the intellectually superior creature on this planet. Yes, animals can’t compare to our intellectual capabilities, but they do appear to understand, respect and consistently respond to the ecological demands of their environment. As parents, animals routinely apply their instinctual and experiential knowledge to providing for the overall needs of their young.

Consider eagles. When preparing for the birth of their eaglets both parents go to great lengths to build a comfortably large nest on the side of a cliff where predators are unable to attack their young. Once born, the eaglets rely on both parents for daily nourishment, requiring mother and father to partner in feeding and protecting them.

Within weeks, eagle parents begin teaching their young the first of many lessons in flying — a sign of their eventual need to leave home. In addition to removing the feathers and leaves from the nest, eagle parents stop “serving” meals and, eventually, begin pushing their eaglets out of the nest.

This further encourages the young birds to take advantage of their daily flying lessons.

Like eagles, human parents clearly recognize their role as providers and protectors; however, we fall terribly short at preparing our children for their eventual and inevitable life of independence. The instinctual nature of eagles requires them to make home

14

uncomfortable; whereas the “intelligent” nature of human parents compels them to add an Xbox, cell phone, flat-screen TV with a few hundred channels and an iPod. As the eaglets grow, they begin having to work for their meals. This new requirement is designed to prepare them for the day when they must hunt on their own. Human parents bring so much food and require so little work that 26 percent of people age 20 and younger have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (National Institute of Health, 2011) — a sign of too much food and too little exercise. Eagles strengthen their eaglets’ wings by providing early and repeated lessons in flight, even combining flying lessons with eating so the little birds learn “if you don’t work you don’t eat.”

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

How are your children and teens learning the complexities of today’s society? The adolescent mind and physical body are quite capable of learning intricate life skills, yet, humans rarely teach, or even involve, their children in activities such as cooking, cleaning and budgeting, or any other skill necessary for a life of independence.

When we take complete control of daily life and household responsibilities without consistently involving our children, we deprive them of developing the critical thinking skills that separate us — and make us so much more intelligent — than the animal kingdom. Consequently, lessons in problem solving, decision making, delayed gratification, responsibility, self-control, goal setting, planning and

implementation go untaught and, therefore, underdeveloped.

It’s no wonder young adults are too weak and inept to ever fully develop independence.

According to research, 13 percent of young adults ages 18-29 have moved back home (Pew Research Center, 2009) and some 60 percent of grandparents serve as caregivers to their grandchildren (Huffington Post, 2012).

Human parents’ failure to prepare children for healthy, independent adult life leaves us to wonder about the superiority of the human intellect … and begs the question: Where is our animal instinct? P Christina Christian has worked as an educator for 20 years. She is the current Head of School for Bethune Mays Classical Academy and the author of “Re-Engaging the Village: The Essence of Parenting.”

FamilyNotes

by Lee McCracken

Spending time together

T

he next 12 months already are off to a fast start. Work, school and weekend activities are bustling once again after the holiday slow down … and the family calendar may look like it’s jam packed with things to do.

SheKnows.com offers these tips to help moms and dads be intentional about building family time into the schedule.

Sit down to dinner. Enjoying meals together is linked to lower incidences of teen smoking, drinking and drug use.

Additionally, research shows that kids who eat with their parents also get better grades. This year, make a resolution to sit down and eat dinner together as a family at least four nights a week.

Stop over-scheduling. Are your children scheduled from breakfast to bedtime? Tons of extracurricular activities don’t make you a good parent. Find the balance of letting your children participate in activities they enjoy, while also allowing time for free play, friends, family and sleep. Parents who over-schedule their kids often over-schedule themselves, too. Make a promise to yourself and your family to ease back on all the structure and planning to allow everyone to have a little more free time.

Unplug once a week. Technology is great, and we certainly can’t live without it. However, if your family is always on the computer, watching TV or playing video games, it’s time to take a break and reconnect with one other. Dedicate one day a week as an “unplugged” day at home. Turn off phone, computers, tablets and televisions; use the day to get back to basics. Create art or cook a meal together.

Play board games or cards.

Set aside an hour for reading.

Ice skating Do some spring cleaning.

Enjoy more than 4,000 square Plan family outings. feet of real ice at The Ice Park at Keep your family fit and Concord Mills this winter.

Bring a used Pepsi product healthy by holding family bottle or can to get $2 off fitness days. Take a walk (or admission. $12 includes skating run) together at the park or and rentals. The Speedpark at create an obstacle course in Concord Mills, 8461 Concord the backyard. Put on some Mills Blvd., Concord. Call oldies music and have a 704-KARTING or visit dance party. Play follow the www.thespeedpark.com. leader, taking turns being the one who chooses the steps, Animal exploration lunges, high-kicks or twirls.

On Saturday, Jan. 18, it’s Laugh more, argue less.

Chicken Day at the Charlotte Nature Probably the most important Museum, 1658 Sterling Drive. thing you can do for your Many families are eating more family is to enjoy life and avoid chicken, but do the kids know arguments. Control your what this farm animal and food temper and be kind to others, supplier looks like? Enjoy crafts, and your children with follow puppet shows and storytelling. suit. Reducing confrontations $6; children under 2 are free. Call and stress leads to a healthy 704-372-6261. and happy environment for everyone. P

Fun family activities

20TH ANNUAL

MLK Holiday Prayer Breakfast

Benefiting the McCrorey Family YMCA and Y Achievers Program

January 20, 2014 | 8:00 AM Crown Ballroom, Charlotte Convention Center

Join us for the second annual, collaborative, city-wide celebration for the National Observance Holiday!

This year’s keynote speaker is Hill Harper, from “CSI” and USA Network’s television show “Covert Affairs”. He has been honored at the Hood Hargett Breakfast as well as Johnson C. Smith Arch of Triumph Awards.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

at www.ymcacharlotte.org/mlkprayer For sponsorship opportunities, contact Debbie Smith at 704 716 6513. ymcacharlotte.org YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

15

ByFaith

by Rev. Dwayne Bond

Men who lead

Moral models found in the book of Timothy

D

espite the popular opinions of popculture and reality TV, pastors are the moral trendsetters for leadership development in society.

Although sometimes portrayed as untrustworthy, hypocritical, money-loving adulterers, the office of pastor is an essential and valuable asset to culture.

Biblical pastors set the example for leadership both inside and outside the church, and there is no better set of qualifications for selecting leaders or determining how they should lead than what is found in scripture.

Clear qualifications for biblical pastoring are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7. Although this passage speaks specifically about pastors, men and women can glean principles from this text and find assistance in becoming effective and timetested leaders.

Paul is speaking to Pastor Timothy in a time when people were underestimating, disrespecting and lacking confidence in the office of pastor.

In the eyes of the culture, pastors were not considered respectable or worthy of emulating, as is often true today. However, Paul understood the importance of this biblical office, as well as the hardship and unwarranted persecution pastors endured.

Therefore, he penned this letter to encourage them and set the tone for leadership development in the church and culture.

What can be learned?

Verse 1 — Paul begins by assuring that the principles he shares are trustworthy. He then describes the office of overseer 16

Although this passage speaks specifically about pastors, men and women can glean principles from this text and find assistance in becoming effective and time-tested leaders. (or pastor) as a noble profession — one that is good, respectable and honorable. Paul clearly conveys that pastors should be skilled men of character who also lead well in their homes and communities in order to be qualified to lead in the church.

Verse 2 — Leadership begins with character: who a person is when no one is around. A pastor must be above reproach, which means blameless or “not open to attacks.” A biblical leader is not to allow himself to be open to the attacks of the enemy and should, instead, diligently guard his heart.

One manifestation of being blameless is being a one-woman man. If a pastor (or leader)

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

cannot commit his heart, time and affection to one woman (his wife), he disqualifies himself from leadership. Tragically, the adulterous actions of pastors, politicians, athletes and entertainers has had a cataclysmic effect on our society, as marital fidelity has been diminished in its importance and deemed optional.

Verse 3 — Paul also mentions such leadership qualifications as being soberminded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable and gentle. In addition, leaders should not be drunkards, violent, quarrelsome or lovers of money. In other words, a pastor or leader must not have

unrestrained passions, be overly emotional, or lack order and discipline. He should not be isolated from people, habitually drunk, easily angered, argumentative or one who is overly consumed with money and possessions. Any leader lacks these qualities is not fit to lead others.

Competence also is a prerequisite for leadership.

According to scripture, a pastor should be skilled in his ability to teach. Likewise, leaders should be skilled in their area(s) of expertise in order to maximize their effectiveness.

Verse 4 — Pastors also must lead well in their homes. How a pastor loves his wife and manages his children is the litmus test for how he will lead the church; if he fails to lead his home, he has nothing to offer the church. Same thing goes for other leaders.

Verse 7 — Leadership should be lived out in the context of community. Being well thought of by outsiders as a man of character offers additional credence to the blameless life of a pastor.

Likewise, a leader’s reputation within the community offers hints to whether he is qualified to lead others.

Biblical pastors and leaders who take their lessons in leadership from God’s Word not only will be effective, but they also will be exemplary role models to the watching world.

May God continue to raise up biblical leaders for the sake of our future and society. P Rev. Dwayne Bond is the lead pastor of Wellspring Church.

GoodLife

by Trudi Lacey

Game plan

for building championship teams within an organization

W

ant a competitive edge for success?

When building a championship team, whether in business or sports, the game plan should focus on a relationship system. As a former WNBA coach, I know developing strong relationships on your leadership team is the key component to sustaining high performance, especially under pressure.

Fluid, agile planning

Did you know that for teams to operate at maximum performance levels a 5-to-1 positive-to-negative interaction ratio has to occur (American Behavioral Science, 2004)? Research also shows that an increase in Relationship Systems Intelligence (the understanding of being a part of a team) increases positivity and productivity for the group.

In sports, a coach studies the opponent and creates a game plan to win. The coach also knows that the game does not always go according to the plan. To be a successful coach, business owner or CEO, you must be fluid and agile in your planning. Most often, something unexpected happens. For example, in basketball, a star player may get in foul trouble, an unexpected member of the other team may hit a few threepointers, or your team may make too many unforced turnovers.

Great leaders keep their teams aligned behind the common purpose, especially when it isn’t going well. They “tweak” the game plan in order to stay in the game and give themselves a chance to be champions.

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“A champion, in his attitude, needs a motivation above and beyond just winning.”

— Pat Riley Pat Riley said, “There’s always the motivation to wanting to win. Everybody has that. But a champion, in his attitude, needs a motivation above and beyond just winning.” The real key to building championship teams within your organization is NOT hitting the sales numbers, but in having relationships that last.

What has your organization really accomplished if you make the sales goals and everyone dislikes one another?

Learning to stay connected to your “WHY” and finding the possibilities within the challenges will create momentum to keep your team fully engaged through difficult times. During the Miami Heat’s 2013 NBA Championship Finals, they tweaked the game plan to play to their strengths and keep the team focused especially in the crucial Game 5. Implicit in that was an

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

unorthodox strategy of having LeBron James (small forward) defend Tony Parker (point guard) and keeping Chris Bosch, who was in foul trouble, in the game to rebound. The Heat also had one three-point shooter on the floor at all times to stretch the defense.

The combination of “tweaks” to the game plan gave the Miami Heat the competitive edge to win and allowed all the players to add value to the teams’ success.

5 strategies to success

The same strategy works for building championship teams within your organization. Follow these five simple strategies to sustain high performers, create your competitive edge and deliver consistent outcomes: 1 Create a culture of collective leadership. Make someone feel like a rock star (a willingness to let others shine and add

value with their performances).

2 Practice “deep democracy.” Let all voices be heard, even the ones you do not want to hear.

3 Establish a system of WHO you will be together, especially under pressure.

4 Stay connected to your WHY, which will pull you through the difficult times.

5B e consistent about being consistent. Formulate a plan, work the plan, review and repeat. P Trudi Lacey (MEd, CPCC and CPT) is the author of “From Trials to Triumphs,” available on Amazon, and the owner of Lacey & Company, a coaching firm that empowers people to do the work they love and lead the life they want. For workshops/ speaking engagements on “Beyond Performance” winning organizational strategies, connect at lifedesigns4u@ gmail.com or 704-504-8825.

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IT'S NOT WHAT'S SAID, IT'S WHAT'S NOT SAID.

Written by Lynn Nottage What starts out as a 1930's screwball comedy becomes a 40-year glimpse into the life of Vera Stark, a headstrong African American actress who paved the way for future black actors. But, who was the real Vera Stark? Part comedy and part commentary, playwright Lynn Nottage uses today's fascination with celebrity and controversy to get the truth behind this little-known legend.

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BookReview

by Angela Haigler

‘Unfinished:

40 Lessons on Purpose, Self and Becoming a Man’

C

harlotte businessman Reginald Bean says he has experienced a gap between what men achieve and their potential. The disconnect exists, he says, because society does not spend enough time preparing boys to become men.

In “Unfinished: 40 Lessons on Purpose, Self and Becoming a Man” (2013), Bean shares a series of personal life experiences. He hopes those who read his book will begin to

Reginald Bean

have the conversations necessary to impact positive change in the community.

The book clearly was a labor of love; the experiences the author shares are heartfelt.

Bean reflects on his own transition from misguided youth raised in 1980s Detroit to executive for a national corporation. He is the director of Multicultural Marketing at CocaCola Bottling Co. Consolidated, as well as a youth mentor and founder of Ideas in Motion.

Each entry in the book draws on lessons Bean believes are essential for young men to reach full manhood.

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Readers won’t get the whole story behind the story, though, because Bean’s storytelling doesn’t go into a lot of detail about how he stumbled along the way. I wanted to know more about specific relationships and jobs, so I could better identify with his struggles and eventual triumph.

Written to appeal primarily to young men, but also for their adult coaches and mentors, “Unfinished” includes challenges and exercises at the end of each segment. These would make for an interesting discussion

during cultural awareness workshops, men’s retreats and similar events.

Some examples include: • “One of Us Is Not Like the Other” Challenge: Be cool with people who don’t have the same personality as you.

Don’t expect them to be just like you. If you invite people into your circle, don’t resist their differences. Allow others to be themselves. The bonus is that you get to be yourself.

Exercise: Name some friends who have felt weird around you. What expectations did you have that made them feel that way?

• “Enjoy the Ride” Challenge: Challenge yourself by preparing your expectations for the celebrations and disappointments.

When disappointments show up, don’t bail out; you can recover. Don’t jump off the ride just because life happened.

Exercise: List three times during the ride that you were disappointed. What could you have done differently to prepare yourself for what was to come?

• “Failure Isn’t Failure Until You Quit” Challenge: Life will often throw things our way that will challenge us. The challenging issue isn’t what defines us; it’s how we respond. How will you respond?

Exercise: What have you tried lately and quit? Why did you quit? How long did you try before you gave up? What lesson did you learn that you can use some other time? What you would do differently if given another opportunity?

“Unfinished” achieves something that is very important: The voice of a successful businessman has been unleashed and, for those seeking his message and methods, the steps to building a stronger community can begin. P Angela Haigler explores the literary world at www.angelicmusings.wordpress.com and on Twitter @angelicmusings.

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January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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Looking MADE Cam H

e may be Charlotte’s high-profile NFL quarterback, but Cam Newton looks to his roots before he gets dressed in the morning.

“I think of my grandmother before I leave the house,” says Newton. “Would she approve of how I look? She taught me that dressing well is important in making a first impression. And sometimes that first impression is all you’ve got.”

Emerging fashion icon

That relationship between fashion and making a good first impression was Newton’s inspiration to create the MADE Cam Newton collection with Belk. The collection, available at select Belk stores and on Belk.com, launched in 2012 with a full line of products, including dress and casual wear for men. In the fall, the collection expanded to include shoes and accessories.

Since his arrival in the spotlight as a Heisman trophy winner and then a top NFL draft pick, Newton has been recognized as an emerging fashion icon in the sport. He often is noted for his sense of style, and his professional and polished appearance, even landing on the cover of GQ magazine (September 2011).

“Professional sports play an increasingly important role in fashion, and as a fashion retailer, Belk is excited to be at the forefront of the trend through this brand,” says Kathryn Bufano, president and chief merchandising officer for Belk.

“Cam Newton personifies our company’s dedication to family, community and the Southern lifestyle and, therefore, is a perfect complement to Belk’s modern Southern fashions.”

The MADE Cam Newton line marks the first time in its 125-year history that the retailer has partnered with a sports figure on an exclusive clothing line. William Henry Belk opened the company’s first store in Monroe in 1888. Since then, Belk has grown to become the nation’s largest family owned and operated department store company with more than 300 stores in 16 states and a growing online presence.

Now in its third generation of Belk family leadership, the company’s annual revenues have climbed to nearly $4 billion.

“I’m happy to bring my vision to a clothing line that provides comfortable, on-trend clothing to men and that reflects my personal style.”

— Cam Newton 22

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

good Newton

Cam Newton, the 24-year-old Carolina Panthers quarterback, makes game-winning plays on the field and in the fashion industry.

With its rebranding in 2010 under the Modern. Southern.

Style. tagline, Belk launched a new mission to satisfy the Southern lifestyle needs of its customers by providing the fashion they desire and the value they deserve

From playbook to patterns

The company’s combination of southern heritage and modern fashion created the perfect formula for Newton. Belk always has been a part of Newton’s life, while he was growing up in Georgia and later as a student in Alabama. Today, the company provides a broad platform for sharing his fashion sense that extends across the 16 Southern states where Belk operates stores and nationally via Belk’s rapidly growing Belk.com business.

“As a man born and raised in the South, I always have known Belk as a benchmark for quality apparel and a destination for clothing that is both functional and stylish.

Developing a collection for Belk was a natural fit from the beginning, and we designed the MADE collection with an authentic approach,” says Newton. “I’m happy to bring my vision to a clothing line that provides comfortable, on-trend clothing to men and that reflects my personal style.”

Newton is involved in the development of the MADE Cam Newton line, working with the designers on details, such as colors and patterns. He also supports the collection through personal appearances at Belk stores, by participating in Belk advertising, and by leveraging the synergies between Belk’s corporate giving program and his own Cam Newton Foundation.

In the latest example of that collaboration, a portion of the proceeds of Newton’s recent appearance at Belk went to the Foundation. And there are plans to collaborate on a spring fundraising event in Charlotte.

While Newton continues to travel the country with the Carolina Panthers, his relationship with Belk keeps his heart close to home. P

“Professional sports play an increasingly important role in fashion.” — Kathryn Bufano president and chief merchandising officer for Belk

As a quarterback at Auburn University, Newton wins the Heisman Trophy in New York on Dec. 11, 2010.

“I think of my grandmother before I leave the house.

Would she approve of how I look?"

— Cam Newton January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

23

by Lee McCracken photos by Jon Strayhorn

Image

innovator H

e was featured on the cover of Advertising Age magazine at the age of 22, and he created Brand Jordan for Nike before he turned 30.

Now in Charlotte, Greg Johnson is boosting brand recognition for Bojangles’ Restaurants, Cheerwine, Charlotte Bobcats, Autobell and more. As president of BooneOakley, Johnson is among a handful of African Americans leading marketing and advertising agencies.

He’s definitely creative and fun — as highlighted in the spotlight on Johnson on Oct. 31, 2013 on BusinessWeek.com in “What I Wear to Work” (check out that orange velvet jacket!) — but Johnson also is very spiritual family man. Did you know he is an ordained minister and has four children?

“I try to agitate young people enough to get them to move forward in their dreams,” says Johnson with a smile.

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Greg Johnson brings Big Apple advertising experience to Charlotte

“I was always bubbling and energized on the inside, thinking, ‘There’s got to be more out there than this.’”

From aluminum foil to Air Jordan

Before he took on the Big Apple, working for Saatchi & Saatchi and J. Walter Thompson, Johnson grew up in a small black community in Rocky Mount. His father worked in a textile mill and his mother was a hospital custodian. He attended a mostly black high school, but he made his way to the School of Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill … with a head full of dreams.

“I was always bubbling and energized on the inside, thinking, ‘There’s got to be more out there than this,’” says Johnson. And, indeed, UNC opened the window to new world and shaped his drive to think big. “I squeezed all the juice out of my college experience,” he adds, noting he participated in a lot of clubs and athletics. His studies also taught him about the many advertising agencies on Madison Avenue. During his senior

year, he made two road trips to New York City, having sought out alumni who were working in advertising.

“Out of those trips came job offers,” says Johnson. He graduated from UNC on May 13, 1990 and was in Manhattan on May 30, having been recruited into the leadership development program at J. Walter Thompson. He still remembers the first advertisements he worked on for Tide and Reynolds Aluminum Foil.

After more than two years, he joined the team at Saatchi & Saatchi, where he worked for three years before moving over to the client side to work at Johnson & Johnson in New Jersey. He also worked at P&G, Warner Lambert (now Pfizer), Reynolds Metals and Kodak.

When his former boss at Saatchi & Saatchi became the global advertising director at Nike in Portland, Ore., Johnson moved to the West Coast.

“I’d met my wife, Luci, while in New York; she worked at Condé Nast,” says Johnson. “I became the advertising director for Nike when I was 25, working with Michael Jordan to develop his shoe brand, and my wife also got a job at Nike.”

Johnson and his wife spent 15 years in Portland and built their family. They now are the parents of four children, ages 5-12 with 10-year-old twins.

Branding to discipling

Johnson was raised in the church, and he began exploring his faith further

Greg Johnson, president of BooneOakley, says he was honored to be inducted into the N.C. Hall of Fame for journalism at the University of North Carolina last summer.

while in working in Portland … seeking something the advertising business couldn’t give him.

“I was 30 years old, and I was kind of miserable even during such a successful point in my career,” he explains. While attending a Baptist church, he grew close with the pastor and enrolled in seminary courses. “I was hungry to learn, and I recommitted my life to Christ and learned about grace — that being a Christian wasn’t just something I was going to do, but that it’s on the inside.”

Eventually, he took a part-time job as an associate pastor and then became the senior pastor. Johnson earned his master’s degree in theology from Western Seminary.

During a trip to New York in 2008, Johnson met David Oakley, a fellow UNC graduate, who also was working in marketing and branding. The two stayed in touch and frequently talked about the business climate and the advertising industry in North Carolina.

‘A perfect fit’

In 2010, the family left the West Coast.

“Yes, we drove four young children in a minivan from Oregon to North Carolina,” smiles Johnson, noting he took a six-week sabbatical from the church to visit his wife’s family and see if there was the potential to move back.

“It was a total leap of faith,” he explains.

“I returned to Portland for a year, sending resumes to various churches here. But I got no responses.”

Joining BooneOakley was “a perfect fit,” says Johnson. “They had just started The Eye (creative lab) and the company was on a growth track.”

His leadership in the industry here is notable, as most agencies do not have a lot of diversity. Combining his experience with Christian stewardship, Johnson says he feels he’s “been called to encourage other people to become the best versions of themselves — helping them to find out who God has put them on this earth to be.”

He adds, “When I began to talk to my parents about going to Chapel Hill, they said, ‘You know it’s where white people go, don’t you?’ And then they couldn’t believe I wanted to move and work in New York.

Today, the possibilities are endless for African Americans. The past doesn’t define a person.”

In July 2013, Johnson was inducted into the N.C. Hall of Fame for journalism. He says it was a deep honor, and he paused to be fully present to the moment.

“It was packed full of significance for me,” he says. “That my parents got to experience it with me and my wife, who gave up her career for our family, was by my side.” P January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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by Jared Chatman photos by Jon Strayhorn

Blacks B

Charlotte fire captain shares history, honor

ack in the day, being a firefighter was a rewarding and wellrespected job, involving intense physical labor. Volunteer firefighters were in the best condition, mentally and physically. With water the only resource to extinguish a fire, fireman had to use manpower to physically move the water themselves, using a Jeffers handpump engine.

Many of the first firefighters were African American. Black slaves were enlisted to help put out fires because of their strength and stamina. Over the decades, the faces within the fire houses changed.

Demand for diversity

Joining the fire department

Capt. Bobby Maddox is a 20-year veteran of the Charlotte Fire Department.

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Want to learn about becoming a firefighter? Before applying, check the eligibility requirements online at www.charlottefire.org or contact CFD Recruitment at 704-336-2979 or via e-mail at cfdrecruitment@charlottenc.gov.

Charlotte Fire Department’s Capt. Bobby Tate Maddox Jr. has been a firefighter for 20 years. A native of the Queen City, he works out of Engine Company 12.

Maddox joined the CFD when he was 25 and had to go through qualification twice. He attended West Mecklenburg High School and obtained an associate’s degree in fire Science at Central Piedmont Community College.

Maddox says there is a need for more minority firefighters today, specifically African-Americans. The need for more diversity on the force is important to the neighborhoods CFD serves.

“A lot of people don’t realize that firefighters sometimes are the first ones to respond to a scene,” says Maddox.

“That doesn’t mean a police car or an ambulance isn’t coming, but we are able to provide help in a lot of ways.” As firstresponders, they are trained in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Greater diversity within the CFD would enable the department to better connect with and represent the community.

Maddox says he feels a lot of minorities feed into the negative stereotypes of society, associating fire fighting as a “white man’s job.” What he and his colleagues do, he believes, is misunderstood and misinterpreted, and the quick thinking and physical strength required for the job isn’t regarded well enough.

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The Neptunes consisted of prominent African-American businessmen, educators, everyday workers and community leaders, who were highly respected by many whites.

Their dedication and sacrifice contributed to them earning a reputation as skillful fireman committed to their civic duty.

The Neptunes are a vital piece of state history, because they showed how racial discrimination was overcome by the danger of fires, which caused people to set their differences aside for the greater good of the community at a time when racial tensions were extremely high and violent. In 1907, Charlotte decided to abolish the crew, due to political racial issues blacks faced at the time.

•

Photo courtesy of Doug Hickin, Charlotte, N.C. Fire Department.

K A N N A P O L I S

Did you know African-American firefighters are a very important part of the history of Charlotte? Many slave owners in the Queen City — along with others from Raleigh, Fayetteville, New Bern and Wilmington — enlisted the help of blacks in volunteer fire brigades.

On May 12, 1891, the General Assembly of North Carolina ratified a charter for the N.C. Colored Volunteer Firemen’s Association. The first African-American volunteer fire company was named the Neptunes.

They were led by Col. Charles Samuel Lafayette Alexander Taylor, who was born in Charlotte in 1854 and was an accomplished musician, dancing master, shoemaker and barber. He taught ballroom dancing to the prominent white ladies, and he was elected and served as an Alderman in the mid 1880s. He also was the only black colonel in the Spanish-American war from Charlotte.

•

Charlotte’s Neptunes

G A S T O N I A

Heroic measures

•

victim. Advanced certification and professional development are available to firefighters who want to climb the ladder, so to speak.

A lot of Charlotte firefighters are on the job because they followed in the footsteps of a family member (and having passed all the qualification tests). But, in order to help improve the lack of diversity within the department, CFD personnel are working to expose more people to the importance and necessary roles firemen play in the community. They’re also actively recruiting.

Maddox stands ready to serve with (l-r) Clint Holms, FFII; The benefits of the job are being Rebecca Brown, battalion chief; Cindy Zimmerman, FFII; shared with high school graduates and and Thomas Hawthorn, FFIII. even college graduates — especially due to the fact that a lot aren’t able to get a job right off the bat in their field of study. “(Being a firefighter) is not just a sit Maddox recommends anyone considering around, do nothing job. You never know joining the Charlotte Fire Department get when duty will call,” says Maddox. In prepared for training. Firefighters must take addition to imminent danger, there also initiative and assume responsibility. may be extreme weather, a bloody scene or He adds, “You must give yourself time a life-and-death situation requiring CPR or to learn.” P the Jaws of Life to extract an auto accident

C H A R L O T T E

blazing the trail

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

27

by Tiffany Bell photos courtesy of Men Who Care Global

Ron Leeper says he called a group of black men together in 2011 in response to a violent street fight during an uptown celebration.

M

ost people nod vigorously at this statement made by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “The measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” A growing group of men in Charlotte are standing up to help change the future for African-American young men.

Leading them is local business leader Ron Leeper, president of R.J. Leeper Construction. He’s helping several dozen students to make better choices and build better lives for themselves.

Addressing anger, aggressiveness

Men Who Care Global strives to effect change in the lives of African-American male youth ages 13-24. The nonprofit organization started with 25 men in 2011, but it is now up to 250 men who work selflessly and diligently in the community to ensure these youth graduate high school, gain access to a mentor to help them navigate life’s challenges and find gainful employment.

The organization was founded following a violent uprising during Speed Street in May two years ago. A clash among black teens resulted in the loss of one young man’s life, the injury of another male youth and the arrest of 80 additional teens.

Leeper felt an obligation to take actionable steps to help prevent future incidents. “I called together African-American men — some 28

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Male mentors

Students at Ranson, as well as West Charlotte High, are mentored to stay in school by local businessmen.

business people, some elected officials and others — and after having a discussion, we decided collectively that we need to do more as men in the community,” says Leeper. One of the gentlemen suggested they should go downtown as a group for the Center City July

Men Who Care Global launched the program at West Charlotte High.

“We meet with young men and talk with them about life’s challenges, their decisionmaking ability and why it’s important to stay in school,” says Leeper. In 2013, they

Men Who Care Global strives to effect change in the lives of African-American male youth ages 13-24. The nonprofit organization started with 25 men in 2011, but it is now up to 250 men.

4th celebration and talk with young people about their behavior they should exhibit.

As a result of talking with some of the youth, the men looked into going into establishing a mentoring program in public high schools to help deter students from dropping out.

took a proactive approach to reaching male youth earlier by introducing the program at Ranson Middle School. Some 30 male students are actively involved in the mentoring process today.

To help introduce the students to the workplace, the volunteers also help them

identify some of the things that have been barriers to their ability to obtain gainful employment.

“I setup an apprenticeship program at my company and hired five young men to give them exposure to construction as a potential career path,” says Leeper.

Investing in lives Having faced similar challenges as a teenager, Leeper is familiar with some of the same issues that confront today’s African-American male youth and knows the obstacles can be overcome. Born and raised in Belmont, he acknowledges he was “one of those kids.” Leeper grew up in a household where his father was abusive and, eventually, left the family.

Frustrated and trying to navigate personal challenges such as anger management on his own, Leeper left home at 15. Shortly thereafter, a family extended

kindness to him by allowing him to live with them. Yet, he barely graduated high school and did not attend college.

Leeper was a hard worker, though, and even back then desired to serve the community. After serving on the Charlotte City Council for 10 years, he met and became friends with Hugh McColl, former chairman and CEO of Bank of America.

“After leaving public office, he helped me get started in the construction business.

He invested in me personally,” says Leeper, noting he now is in his 20th year as a successful full-service minority construction management and general contractor in Charlotte.

“I suspect that had I not had people who were willing to give me words of encouragement when I needed it, things would have been very different,” he adds.

Leeper recalls a time when helping others was the rule, not the exception.

“When I was growing up, it was

get face to face

Community leaders care about future of black teens

Men Who Care Global volunteers attend events and gatherings in uptown Charlotte to talk with African-American youth about being non-violent and making smart decisions.

“When I was growing up, it was common place for people to understand that if they achieved a certain measure of success, it was expected for them to give back to the community. It’s something we should all be doing.”

— Ron Leeper

commonplace for people to understand that if they achieved a certain measure of success, it was expected for them to give back to the community. It’s something we should all be doing. Just think about where our community would be if all successful individuals — regardless of their line of work — said, ‘I’m going to find one person who would benefit from the experiences I’ve had, and I’m going to invest in that person.’ Imagine where our community would be.”

While the name of the group, Men Who Care Global, is a result of the volunteers envisioning the possibility of becoming an organization that helps communities around the world deal with these same issues, they remain focused on Charlotte at this point.

Men Who Care Global is reaching out for more African-American males who want to give back — whether that’s with their time, talent or money.

Volunteers are needed as mentors at Ranson Middle School and in supporting male youth at gatherings in Center City.

Individuals also may offer financial support by making charitable donations.

“Financial support is a challenge for many organizations in our community,” says Leeper. “We have a very difficult time getting what we need to provide the necessary resources to the kids, but we do what we can with what we have.”

To learn more, visit www.mwcglobal.org or contact Victor Earl, executive director, at mwcglobal1@gmail.com. P January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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by Bridgette Johnson photos courtesy of University City YMCA

UCity sports hero Andre Clark mentors children at the Y

“I never let anything get to me and prefer to keep a smile on my face in hopes that it can brighten someone’s day.”

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C

hildren love him, and parents concede he has the “IT” factor. At the University City YMCA, Andre Clark stands out.

The 26-year-old sports director enjoys working with children and is committed to impacting their lives and leaving a lasting impression. He says a feeling of amazement overtakes him when he watches them play.

“Seeing a 5-year-old score his or her first basket, first touchdown, or first goal gives me chills,” says Clark.

‘Beautiful humility’ Athletic as a child, Clark had dreams of becoming a coach. The Charlotte native attended Newberry College, a small private

institution just west of Columbia, S.C., where he majored in sports medicine and minored in business. He was given the opportunity to intern with the Stratford Richardson YMCA in 2010, where he invested a lot of time working with the summer camp and after-school programs.

Anthony Walters, who now is the executive director at the Granby YMCA of South Hampton Roads in Virginia, welcomed Clark into the internship program that year and recognized his skills as a leader when they first met. He refers to Clark as “an authentic champion with beautiful humility.”

Following graduation, Clark became a paid employee at the Stratford Richardson Y and, since 2011, has worked his way up

“I want to always have a hand in sports. I want to take sports and make it the best it can be at the University City YMCA.”

Andre Clark, 26, connects with children and adults alike as the sports director at the UCity YMCA.

to always have a hand in sports. I want to take sports and make it the best it can be at the University City YMCA,” he says. “From there, I hope to become an executive or vice president within the organization.” through the ranks quickly. He contributed in such as health and wellness, quality control and sports, but it was his mentoring and willingness to make a difference that effected the most change with the youth in the West Boulevard community.

“All he wanted to do was help anywhere he could and impact the volunteers and kids by giving back,” says Walters.

Clark’s laidback personality, disciplined work ethic and ability to be a team player proved to management he had the leadership skills to move ahead, and Clark was appointed to his current position at the University City Y. Although already well-accomplished, Clark wastes no time in talking about his short-term and long-term goals. “I want

Sharing his smile Currently, Clark is working with his team to develop an adult kickball program that will start this spring. Management has taken notice, and believes that with the positive influence this go-getter has over everything he takes on, he definitely will have a supporting team behind him along every step he takes in his career.

Matthew McAulay, senior program director at the University City Y, says he admires Clark’s passion, saying, “Andre cares about what he does and connecting with our members. He is exactly what we need here.”

Clark’s sincerity and patience make him the perfect candidate for working with

children on a daily basis. He encounters children who have no one to look up to and, without realizing it, he becomes their hero.

Clark loves seeing the children celebrate their wins, but he also teaches them the importance of hard work, team work and perseverance.

While full of energy and passion, Clark describes himself modestly as a composed individual, who gets joy out of seeing others happy. “I never let anything get to me and prefer to keep a smile on my face in hopes that it can brighten someone’s day,” he adds.

His father and role model, James Brown, and his mother, Nessie Clark, get all the credit. “My dad was tough, but he showed me how to be a man and respect women,” explains Clark. “My mother is the best woman God has put on earth; she had me when she was 17 and never let me down.”

A father to 9-month-old Mya, Clark says he is dedicated more than anything to pass the same principles on to his daughter. P January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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by Angela Lindsay

The vibrant South End features a variety of restaurants, lounges, art galleries, boutiques and even major retail stores.

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Light rail corridor leaps with life W

hat was once a dilapidating, forgotten wasteland is now possibly the trendiest corridors in Charlotte. Chicly coined “Historic South End” in the 1990s by design firm Shook Kelley, the area has become a highly desirable address for living, working and playing.

“We have people here who have buying power and believe in supporting local small businesses.”

Linda Minor, a jewelry artist, owns Bead Me on East Tremont Avenue in South End. Photo by George Harrison.

It wasn’t long before developers began to take notice of the lack of residential units in the booming area. Multiple apartment and condominium — Linda Minor complexes sprang up steadily, and even more construction is slated for the near future.

“Although developers have become much more cautious about overbuilding, there is still optimism in the South End residential South End originally was home to market,” adds Holmes. “At the same time, industrial mill warehouses, but once those the wave of new residents creates demand mills relocated, it became a notorious no for additional retail, entertainment and man’s land. Then, a transformation began office space. With the Blue Line extension … and vacant became vibrant. opening in 2017, there may be a second “South End’s revitalization really picked wave of demand just as the first is met.” up in the late 1980s and into the 1990s, as South End resident Liz Foster is a part it grew into an arts district with converted of that wave of new residents. She moved to mill warehouses and some neighborhood the area in 2010 and has since lived in two gathering spots,” explains Tobe Holmes, different apartment complexes there. director of Historic South End. “People “I loved the vibe in South End,” she loved when the neighborhood brought one says. “My first apartment was right on the of Charlotte’s original trolleys and ran it on light rail, and the accessibility to Uptown the old train tracks.”

‘Walkability’

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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30_10709

875x9.875 4c

A piece of art that fits in your wallet Tobe Holmes, director of Historic South End

The Cultivators, Samuel L. Dunson Jr.

United States Soldiers at Camp William Penn

Landscape, Autumn – Robert Scott Duncanson

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wellsfargo.com *Credit card subject to qualification. © 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

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is fantastic. I also have a dog, so the walkability of South End was another draw.”

This increase in population and communal environment also has attracted businesses to the area with its dual promise of prime location and loyal patrons. Five years ago, Linda Minor — a jewelry artist and owner of Bead Me by Linda Minor — opened her gallery in South End after hearing the area promoted as “fast-moving” and “up-andcoming.” She says she the community is very supportive and believes in buying local.

“We have people here who have buying power and believe in supporting local small businesses,” says Minor.

Commerce and culture collide

South End provides the perfect balance of urban atmosphere and conveniences for everyday living. Major retail chains, a variety of restaurants, lounges, art galleries and several boutique shopping destinations give residents desirable lifestyle options.

“South End offers Charlotteans a complete place: retail, entertainment and interesting things to see are attractive to almost anyone,” Holmes says. “South End has all of this, as well as excellent proximity to uptown, accessibility via transit and walkability, a great neighborhood feel and burgeoning creative scene.”

“I (do everything) my life within a 5-mile radius of my apartment,” says Foster. “Gym, grocery store, yoga studio, dog training facility, pharmacy, work, etc.

— most of these things I can walk to, or are less than a 10-minute commute by car.”

Perhaps the single most attractive and influential element of South End is the LYNX Blue Line. The transit system, which runs directly through the corridor, is at the foundation of South End’s success

“South End offers Charlotteans a complete place: retail, entertainment and interesting things to see are attractive to almost anyone. South End has all of this, as well as excellent proximity to uptown, accessibility via transit and walkability, a great neighborhood feel and burgeoning creative scene.”

— Tobe Holmes

and is located within walking distance of many of the residential developments and businesses.

“Since it began running in 2007, we’ve seen an explosion of transit-oriented development. As of today, 16 multi-family projects have opened or are under construction, which means the residential population will grow to more than 6,000 residents by 2015 from less than 1,000 a little more than a decade ago,” says Holmes. “The residential boom in South End, in addition to new office retail development, has resulted in a more than $750 million

He has the courage to explore new opportunties.

JrK – Grade 12

Est. 1969

Open House ( JrK-12) Saturday, January 11, at 1:00 p.m.

Information Session (Grades 5-8) Tuesday, January 21, at 10:00 a.m.

Come to Cannon. Go Beyond.

Concord, NC | January-February www.CannonSchool.org 2014 | Pride Magazine

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Sell to

Perry’s We Pay More!

We’ll buy your old gold, silver, silver-plated items and coins at prices that will make you say, “Wow!”. Perry’s has been one of the most respected organizations in Charlotte for over 35 years. Our team of more than a dozen appraisers, two coin specialists and a personal property appraiser have years of experience in buying and appraising. And we pay top dollar.

Come experience the WOW! Do not clean your items!!

Fido Fest is a huge draw every year along the LYNX Blue Line.

Wow, what a find!

6525 Morrison Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28211 Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6, Thurs 10-7

www.perrysjewelry.com 704.364.1391 • 800.339.0734 PerrysSouthPark

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Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

investment since the opening of the line.”

Foster uses the light rail to get to uptown Charlotte for a variety of reasons, such as the restaurants, festivals and to attend church. She admits that she wishes she could someday get her employer to relocate to somewhere along the light rail line.

“When I hear of friends and neighbors who live in South End and don’t use the light rail to commute, I am not shy in telling them they are crazy,” she quips.

Minor concurs, “(My business) is conveniently located to the light rail for visitors who are taking advantage of the opportunity to commute with the light rail.

It certainly is a benefit.”

Historic South End reflects the best of what the Charlotte of the “New South” has to offer and is a case study for other

areas hoping to mimic the success of this hip enclave. Holmes says the South End district is an object lesson for the rest of Charlotte about the power of TransitOriented Development (TOD).

“It is important for our community to make forward-looking investments in infrastructure that attract and shape private investment, and South End shows us why,” affirms Holmes. “We are going to see this lesson played out across the Charlotte region in the next 20 years.”

The area also proves strategic planning is vital. “This community convened leaders, residents, stakeholders, business owners and partners a few years ago and came up with a living, breathing strategic plan,” concludes Holmes. “It’s exciting to watch the plan come to life.” P

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“We provide the leadership, experience, structure and tools to “make order out of chaos”

SceneandSeen

Gatherings and

galas

by Tiffany L. Jones

T

he end of the year was full of gatherings and galas. It’s always nice to see people out and about dressed in their stylish holiday attire. Here are just a few memorable events that capped off 2013. Happy New Year, everyone!

‘American Promise’ film screening My Hero Gala

The Charlotte Bobcats held their sixth annual black-tie and tennis shoe affair on Oct. 26, 2013. The My Hero Gala is one of Charlotte’s most unique fundraisers, bringing heroes from the hardwood together with heroes from the community for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and celebration. Guests filled the ballroom of the Hilton Center City, looking fabulous as always in tuxedos and gowns paired with sneakers. The award recipients were: Community Heroes Jill Dinwiddie, community activist, and Jenny Ward, Duke Energy; Healthcare Hero: Dr. Larry Brandy, Novant Health; Sports Hero: Brendan Haywood, Charlotte Bobcats; and Shining Star: the late Jamie Kimble and the Jamie Kimble Foundation for Courage.

Proceeds from the gala support the Novant Health Community Care Cruiser, which delivers quality health care to youth in underserved communities across the area, and the Cats Care Foundation, which is committed to education, wellness and the fight against hunger. Photos by the Charlotte Bobcats Media Department.

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On Nov. 26, 2013, guests packed the theater at the Studio Movie Grill for the Digital Divas private screening of the award winning film, “American Promise.”

A documentary 13 years in the making, “American Promise” provides a rare look into the lives of two middle-class black families as they navigate the ups and downs of parenting and educating their sons.

Following the film, guests had the opportunity to learn more about the film and the producers from Gregory Jones, project manager for Rada Films. The event was sponsored by Remy V, who provided complimentary cocktails prior to the film.

Photos by Keyna Baugh.

Jazzy Holiday Luncheon

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture hosted the 33rd PNC Bank Jazzy Holiday luncheon on Dec. 6, 2013, at The Westin. Each year, hundreds of community leaders, loyal supporters and sponsors look forward to putting on their festive attire as they kick off the holiday season at this annual event. During lunch, more than 500 guests enjoyed a program that included live jazz by the Harvey Cummings band and a special performance by student Malik Kofi. This year's awards were presented by poet, Quentin “Q” Talley. The 2013 Gantt Center award recipients were Tyrone Jefferson, award-winning musician; Sally and Russell Robinson, community leaders/philanthropists; and Compass Group North America, community supporter.

The luncheon is the Gantt Center’s premier fundraiser and an annual tradition in Charlotte to help provide programming to present, preserve and celebrate the arts, history and culture of African Americans and those of African descent. Photos by Tyrus Ortega Gaines.

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

39

PrideStyle Fashion

by Arlene Goldstein photos courtesy of Belk

He goes suave for spring F

or spring, men are redefining cool! Tailored clothes are more dressed down. Casual looks are more polished and pulled together. And more than ever before, the look is in the mix. Weekend to workplace, desk to dinner, the items work as hard as you do. Multi-functional is the mantra of the moment.

The most important messages of the season begin with Belk’s Style statements.

First, Modern Dandy. He is the style-confident gent who likes to mix quirky and classic. His choices in clothes often are predicated on preppy style, but he always does it with a twist. He prefers unexpected color pops, textiles that are washed and relaxed.

Oxford cloth is a favorite. When it comes to furnishings, bows and pocket squares are a must, along with his latest indulgence: suspenders. His shoe choices — updated sneakers in the coolest colors and oxfords newly detailed for a stylish edge — are the perfect finish.

A seasoned fashion veteran, Arlene Goldstein is vice president of trend merchandising and fashion direction for Belk Inc. She travels to fashion capitals in the United States and abroad, such as New York, Paris, London and Milan, to explore emerging trends. She is in demand as a fashion resource for stylists and fashion publications throughout the country and works with Belk merchandising, private brands and marketing to set the tone seasonally.

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Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Sleek and stylish, Clean Slate is the trend that is understated yet elegant. Silhouettes are closer to the body with a sleek architectural feel. The textiles are modern often with sheen-y finishes and technical elements. This cool guy is sure to be impeccably tailored while adding unexpected sportif items — yes, sporty elements to his wardrobe. The add-ons are sleek and sophisticated. A tie bar, a high tech time piece, sleek slip-ons and updated wingtip shoes are sure to be staples in his treasure trove of accessories..

Fashion meets function when Get Sporty hits the stores.

This fashion savvy male is street smart and a fan of chic athletic-inspired items that stand alone or complement more classic sportswear pieces. Borrowed from the gym, details like banding, color blocking, piping and top stitching are essential to this important trend message. Baseball shirts, elevated sweats and zip-front jackets are just a few of the more important items.

High-performance textiles take everything to the next level.

Check out modern blends, technical cottons and innovative coatings insuring that in his closet fashion meets function.

The last statement, Guy on the Go plays homage to the man with an adventurous spirit. He likes to dress like a modern-day explorer, even if he rarely leaves his area code.

The idea of new places and new cultures appeals to him, and he uses utility touches, sun-faded hues, camouflage and even more exotic patterns to express that wanderlust attitude.

Well-worn leather bags, aviator sunglasses, distressed desert boots and barefoot sandals are just a few of the items that finish his look.

January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

41

PrideBusiness

by Angela Lindsay

Growing wealth Black financial advisors are in demand

B

The biggest financial concerns in the Black community are health care costs, inflation and the potential for higher taxes, says Gilbert Peacock, financial advisor with Freedom Financial Advantage, LLC. He says his recommendation is this: “Get the services of someone you trust who comes highly recommended and preferably (operates in) non-fee based advice. If you are pursuing conservative or moderate strategies, it is not necessary to pay for good advice.”

Peacock’s concern, however, is that he isn’t seeing more African Americans joining the financial services industry as professionals. He says the testing and qualification is becoming more stringent, and a job in the field requires commitment, credibility and perseverance.

Peacock adds that Freedom Financial Advantage is committed to building relationships, increasing knowledge and growing value. “To us, these are the three

ank accounts and checkbooks are getting fatter in Charlotte.

African Americans are becoming increasingly more affluent as a whole and, despite the economic downturn and some ongoing financial challenges, most have a favorable outlook on their economic statuses, according to the 2013 Prudential Financial African American Financial Experience study.

“The Black community is making a positive impact on economic growth in our area. As a result, people have a growing desire to increase their wealth and be more financially stable,” says Ryan Marsh, managing director at HF Financial, a General Agency of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual).

Yet, despite increasing wealth, African Americans continue to struggle with how to set priorities, get out of debt and save for the

“It is a must to sit down with a financial advisor and take inventory of what you have, what you need and what your goals are, and then put a plan in place that fits your situation.”

— Ryan Marsh

future. The need for more African-American financial advisors in the Queen City is strong.

Building relationships

The 2013 report stated blacks are continuing to make financial progress and feel confident about the future, with a confidence score significantly higher than the general population. “The middle

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class and affluent continue to grow, with approximately four in 10 surveyed having an annual household income of $75,000 or more, and nearly 25 percent earning six figures. About one-third (35 percent) of African Americans surveyed have $50,000 or more in financial assets, including savings, investments and employer-sponsored retirement accounts.”

most important factors,” he says.

Marsh contends the future is bright for African Americans in the financial services industry, and he says he would like to see more blacks join the financial advising industry.

“I have seen an influx of blacks into the banks and financial institutions,” says Marsh. continued on page 44

Freedom Financial Advantage, LLC

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continued from page 42

“I want more blacks to get excited about the opportunity of being a financial advisor and growing their own business. I understand it’s challenging … but it is also very rewarding!”

Connecting and networking

HF Financial and Freedom Financial employ a number of strategies to reach out to newcomers in Charlotte, as well as the established community. Freedom Financial holds lunch-and-learn financial seminars for churches, charitable organizations, family reunions and the general public. They also market their services using newsletters, birthday cards, client appreciation celebrations and social media — Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Similarly, MassMutual is “very committed,” says Marsh, to growing their presence in the black community. In addition to enjoying referrals from many black leaders in Charlotte, they hold seminars within the community, join/sponsor organizations and associations, use paid advertising and connect via social media.

In the end, the success of these efforts and the viability of the financial advisors themselves begin with potential clients taking the first step.

“People need to realize that there are so many financial solutions out there,” Marsh says. “It is a must to sit down with a financial advisor and take inventory of what you have, what you need and what your goals are, and then put a plan in place that fits your situation.” P

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HOME MATTERS

BECAUSE THE PEOPLE DO. There is a rich heritage here in our community, and we have you to thank.

It makes us proud to know we’ve served our neighbors in Charlotte, NC while calling it home for more than 79 years. As you continue to build your legacy, learn how we can help build your financial future at MassMutual.com

Ryan Marsh Agency Managing Director HF Financial 6000 Fairview Road, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28210 704-557-9671 rmarsh@financialguide.com www.hffcarolinas.com

LIFE INSURANCE + RETIREMENT/401(K) PLAN SERVICES + DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE + LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE + ANNUITIES

MassMutual Financial Group refers to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and its affiliated companies and sales representatives. Insurance products issued by MassMutual (Springfield, MA 01111) and its subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance Co. and MML Bay State Life Insurance Co. (Enfield, CT 06082). CRN201501-167901

PrideBusiness

by Zacch Estrada-Peterson photos by George Harrison

Sweeping up new business

Michael Morings, right, and Nathaniel Jones use their property management and real estate expertise to bring in new revenue.

Business partners add services, sales

M

ichael Morings always knew there was more to his real estate property management career than signing leases and collecting monthly rent checks. The New Jersey native has kept his ear to the ground and his eyes open to new entrepreneurial endeavors.

Morings’ motivation gained traction after teaming up with fellow property manager Nathaniel Jones a few years ago. With new construction slowing and the real estate business becoming stagnant, the pair realized their newest opportunity was, literally, right at their feet.

“In managing various commercial properties, I came across owners who were looking to save money on other services,” says Morings.

Curb appeal

Supreme Sweepers — a full-service parking lot sweeping business — grew from the existing relationships both men had with the units they oversaw. “Because I’m still doing real estate fulltime, I’m out in the field, and I’m meeting managers and owners,” explains Morings. “It’s within the same conversation.”

A 15-year industry veteran, Morings handles the financials, while Jones, with 12 years of experience in the field, handles the day-to-day operations of running the business.

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Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Jones says they took a very hands-on approach from the outset. “We started from the ground level, wanting to understand all the dynamics of the business,” he says. “Michael and I actually both ran the trucks — going out at 10 p.m. and finishing up at 5 a.m., then coming home, washing up, getting breakfast and going back to our regular functions.”

Eventually, they were able to hire additional personnel. Supreme Sweepers (www.supremesweepers.com) now employs five drivers. Supreme Sweepers has yearround contracts, but leaves in the fall, snow in the winter and shoppers over the holidays kicks up business quite a bit.

“Retail stores want their parking lots as pristine as possible,” says Morings. “The lot is the living room to the store, and when you pull in, you want to pull in to a clean, well-lit parking lot, which offers more curb appeal.”

Supreme Sweepers has given the men an edge in an already very competitive industry.

Since they launched the business in 2012, the company has raked in some $150,000 in annual revenue.

Rent and more

Morings and Jones continue to run their respective property management companies

as the market picks up. The business partners’ goal with Supreme Sweepers wasn’t merely to swap one business for another, but to merge the two in due time.

“The whole concept is really to get involved and to start being able to provide a bulk of services,” says Jones, “whether that’s pressure washing or parking lot striping … things of that nature. We decided to embark on that whole process through parking lot sweeping first.”

He continues, “Our client base is, for the most part, other property managers and property management firms that typically manage portfolios of assets. The ultimate goal is to be able to come to a client and say ‘We can not only manage your asset, but we also can provide all of the exterior services you need.’” P

Planting Seeds of Wellness

Get Healthy in 2014 - Know Your Health Risk Factors ...a Tribute to Our Community and Faith-Based Organizations

!

W I N N2E0R1 3

of the munity h & Com

We Are One, A Heartfelt Thank You...

Health Department Project Wins National Award!

The Mecklenburg County Health Department and its community faith-based partners received a Faith and Community Health Excellence Award from the U.S. Department Cheryl S. Emanuel, MS, CSAPC, ICPS of Health and Human Services, Region IV based in Atlanta.

The Awardees were chosen based on the demonstrated outcomes and impact of their organizations on the community.

Overall creativity and uniqueness of their approaches are key to receiving this honor. The award was presented to Health Manager, Cheryl Emanuel at the Region IV Tri-Regional Faith and Community Health Summit for her work on the Village Heart BEAT (Building Education and Activities Together, VHB) – a chronic disease prevention and wellness initiative. It is an energetic, fun-filled competition among faith-based teams and provides tools and coordinated resources to help individuals take action against obesity and its chronic disease risk factors.

Are You At Risk

Fait h e xcellenc E h t l a e H Award

to our Faith Based family!

We appreciate your hard work and dedication to taking the challenge of preventing chronic disease illnesses in Mecklenburg County.

Camino Del Rey Ministries Faith CME Church First Mount Zion Baptist Church Greater Salem Church Grier Heights Presbyterian Church New Friendship Presbyterian Church New Zion Missionary Baptist Church

R OU T TE SI VI EBSI our W i ew v to 2014 ing t pe es. m o c urc h ch w.

or

g

• Overweight or Obese

• Living with Diabetes

ww hb. ge la l i v

• Living with High Blood Pressure

• Physically Inactive

Cheryl.Emanuel@ mecklenburgcountync.gov

• Living with High Cholesterol

• A Smoker • Family History of Heart Disease

www.mecklenburg countync.gov

For additional resources and information

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12-2013

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Biz news & notes Students learn auto technology Evelyn Mack Academy on Monroe Road, PreK through grade 12, has launched a new program called Fundamentals of Automobile Technology for middle and high school students. Juan Wood, science teacher and auto/technology electives teacher, started the class in September; he says he teaches students how cars work not how to work on cars. Wood has 30 years of experience teaching automotives at the high school and

college levels. Wood moved here from Maryland to start the program at Evelyn Mack.

Wood teaches theory, or the sciences of automotives, combined with computer animation.

“I combine science (chemistry, hydraulics, etc.), technology, engineering and math,” says Wood, noting that sparking the interest of middle school students — especially girls — is extremely important. “One out of every six professions in the United States is somehow tied to the auto industry.”

CrossRoads receives grant for revitalization in Grier Heights Wells Fargo is donating $100,000 to CrossRoads Corporation for Affordable Housing and Community Development of Charlotte (www. crossroadscorporation.org) as part of $6 million in grants awarded across 67 nonprofits through its 2013 Leading the Way Home® Program Priority 50

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazine.net

Markets Initiative to help stabilize and revitalize neighborhoods impacted by the economy.

“We are proud to partner with Wells Fargo in our common goal of increasing home ownership to bring about positive neighborhood change,” says Don Gately, executive director of CrossRoads.

“The impact of this grant on our ability to construct new homes in Grier Heights that are affordable to low moderate income families cannot be underestimated.”

CrossRoads is actively involved and experienced in community revitalization efforts in the Grier Heights neighborhood, specifically with the 36 home neighborhood revitalization project known as Elizabeth Heights. Wells Fargo’s Leading the Way Home® community outreach program helps communities stabilize their current housing situation while advancing homeownership to build strong communities into the future. Since 2009, the grant program, funded through the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation, has provided more than $24 million to more than 85 communities.

Carolinas HealthCare tackles diabetes Type 2 diabetes, which can lead to stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and other complications, affects more than 26 million Americans and more than one million people across the Carolinas. In partnership with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, CHS is leading a multi-pronged effort titled “Pre-D Challenge: Reverse the Risk.”

“We treat more people with diabetes than any other health system in the Carolinas — more than 100,000 people,” says Michael C. Tarwater, CEO of Carolinas HealthCare System.

Prediabetes is a serious health condition and a precursor to developing type 2 diabetes. CHS now offers an initial online risk assessment, available at carolinashealthcare. org/diabetes, to identify individuals at higher risk for having or developing diabetes.

At-risk individuals may then take advantage of free diabetes testing opportunities taking place at designated Pictured (left to right): YWCA CEO Kirsten Sikkelee; Sarah Bryant; Mary Nell YMCA locations and other McPherson; Carrie Cook; and YWCA Board President Marvette Monroe. community locations across Mecklenburg County.

The challenge is engaging 50,000 adults YWCA Women of Achievement to complete a risk assessment by Nov. In October, the YWCA Central Carolinas 1, 2014 with a goal of identifying 10,000 honored its 2013 Women of Achievement winners individuals who are at risk for developing — those who have demonstrated leadership in prediabetes or diabetes. For those at risk, Charlotte by promoting social justice. The honorees CHS offers preventive services and treatment were: Sarah Bryant (Pioneer), a mature woman who options. In addition, lifestyle-change programs has exemplified a lifetime commitment to promoting recognized by the Centers for Disease Control social justice; Mary Nell McPherson (Community and Prevention (CDC) and proven to reduce Champion), an established woman currently participant’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes working at the forefront of social change; and Carrie are available at Y branches and designated Cook (Emerging Leader), a woman of the rising community locations. P generation who will lead our community forward.

“It doesn’t take folks long to learn how convenient everything is in University City.

As a real estate agent, showing homes here is fun. Lots of housing opportunities match the diversity of people in this area. When singles, couples or retirees see the options for working, shopping, dining and family fun – plus visiting the University – they’re sold!”

Great ideas live here.

“We like the family feeling in University City and our kids love their schools.

It’s a great place to live and work. Everything we need is here – shopping, dining, excellent nearby healthcare and fun family activities.

We have easy access to the airport and to the best parts of Charlotte. Plus, we can see green just about everywhere we look!”

U ni ve rs it y Cit y Par tn e rs.o rg

PrideHealth

by Dr. Derek McHaffie

Prostate cancer

Carolinas HealthCare offers new treatment Prostate cancer occurs more often in African-American men than any other race or ethnicity.

P

rostate cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting men in the United States (after skin cancer).

While it is the second mostcommon cause of cancer death among all races, prostate cancer occurs more often in African-American men than any other race or ethnicity. It is estimated that one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, making it a priority among cancer physicians and researchers.

PSA screening

The controversies surrounding the PSA screening — a blood test for early detection of prostate cancer — recently has generated much discussion. Because of the higher likelihood of a prostate cancer diagnosis, this is a topic that deserves special consideration for African-American men.

The American Urologic Association (AUA) recently published guidelines for PSA screening about this very issue. PSA screening is not recommended for African-American men before the age of 40. It is recognized that the greatest benefit is likely seen between ages 55-69, and every man should talk with his primary care physician regarding the

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value of PSA screening, depending upon his preferences.

For younger African-American men, this decision also should be individualized.

There is increasing awareness of a genetic association with the risk for developing prostate cancer, and this also should factor into the discussion for individuals with a family history of prostate cancer.

Radium-223 treatment

Within the past few years, several new treatment methods have been developed that significantly impact the ways in which cancer physicians are now able to care for men with prostate cancer. At Carolinas HealthCare System, we now offer a new type of radiation therapy treatment that has proven effective in men with advanced stages of the disease.

Radium-223 is a new agent that targets prostate cancer that has spread to the bone.

It is given as a simple injection into the vein, and it has been shown to extend survival and improve the quality of life for men with prostate cancer. Radium-223 was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in late May 2013 and also is expected to

Levine Cancer Institute has treated the most late-stage prostate cancer patients in Charlotte with Radium-223 and currently is the second most-active treatment site in the country.

reduce pain for those who have been diagnosed with late-stage prostate cancer.

CHS’ Levine Cancer Institute recognizes Radium-223 is an important treatment tool. Having adopted this treatment in July 2013, we have the largest experience in the Charlotte region. To date, LCI has treated the most prostate cancer patients in Charlotte with the therapy and currently is the second most-active treatment site in the country.

Less pain, longer survival

Radium 223, based upon its physical and chemical properties, is rapidly taken up into the bone where it attacks cancer cells. A study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine tested the agent in a large group of men with advanced prostate cancer from both Europe and the United States. Patients who received Radium-223 saw improvements in pain control, a decreased need for potent pain medications and a decreased likelihood of severe consequences that can result from cancer growth in the bone.

The patients also saw an increase in expected survival time after receiving Radium-223 chloride.

This is promising data for men with late-stage prostate cancer.

In many cases, the disease spreads and reaches a point where traditional, hormone-based treatments and chemotherapies are largely ineffective. Radium-223 currently is approved only for patients with advanced prostate cancer, but may offer promise in the future other cancer patients with bone metastases. P

Dr. Derek McHaffie is a radiation oncologist at Carolinas HealthCare System’s Levine Cancer Institute. For more information about the prostate cancer program at LCI, call 980-442-2000 or 800-804-9376.

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January-February 2014 | Pride Magazine

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PrideEyeCare

by Dr. Paula Newsome

Build, draw, dribble and play some more

W

hat do playing basketball, fixing cars and winning in video games have in common? They all require good eye-hand coordination to have fun and to do a good job.

Eye-hand coordination, known to professionals as visual motor integration, is the smooth functioning of both eyes and hands to make appropriate, beneficial movements. It’s the ability of the visual system to coordinate the information received through the eyes to control, guide and direct the hands in the accomplishment of a given task, such as catching a ball, writing a letter, working on an engine, or handling a joy stick. Eye-hand coordination uses the eyes to direct attention and the hands to execute a task.

Fine motor skills

There’s more to it than just having good eyes and good hands. Vision is the process of understanding what is seen by the eyes. It involves more than simple visual acuity, which is the ability to distinguish fine details. Vision also involves fixation on targets, accurate and appropriate eye movement abilities, focusing ability, eye aiming ability and both eyes working together (eye teaming) and then control of the eye-hand.

Amazingly, most hand movements require visual input to be carried out effectively. For example, when children are learning to draw, they visually follow the position of the hand holding the pencil as they make lines on the paper. Most of us learn the skill of visual motor integration between ages 4 months and 14 months of age. But, fine motor skills are involved in the control of small muscle movements (as opposed to gross motor skills) and are learned later in growth and development.

Aim, focus, control

So, what can be done to improve these skills in order to be all you want to be? Play, create and play some more!

When was the last time you colored? Sit at your desk and justify coloring by stating you’re working on developing eye-hand coordination. Just remember to stay within

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the lines (controlled movement is part of the development) and have fun.

Additionally, putting together wooden or cardboard puzzles is excellent for developing

On warmer days, go outside and dribble the ball and shoot baskets with your kids. The more you use your eyes in the development of visual motor integration, you will excel and exceed your expectations.

good eye-hand coordination. Not only do you use visual memory and visualization with deciding what pieces to select next and which ones fit where, you also develop an ability to visualize which puzzle piece fits into the appropriate space.

And, believe it or not, online games and video games are good for honing visual motor integrative skills. But don’t sit too close to the monitor and be sure to limit screen time.

When you and the family are stuck inside on cold winter days, take a break from the television. When was the last time you made something with Legos, sticks or anything else? Doing crafts and building imaginative structures are excellent for developing eyehand coordination.

On warmer days, go outside and dribble the ball and shoot baskets with your kids. The more you use your eyes in the development of visual motor integration, you will excel and exceed your expectations. Enjoy playing, and know that if you aren’t winning the game or creating a masterpiece, you are improving your vision. P Paula Newsome is President of Advantage Vision Center.

Boys raised in single-family homes are at risk A new U.S. study offers more evidence that childhood experience may have health effects that echo into adulthood.

Based on health data for 500 unrelated black men over age 20 enrolled in the Howard University Family Study, researchers found those who had lived with one parent rather than two as children had higher average blood pressure readings.

The men who had grown up in single-parent households also had a 46-percent greater risk of developing high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

“These differences in mean blood pressure and the prevalence of hypertension among men raised in two-parent households vs. single-parent households during childhood are quite significant,” says Debbie Barrington, who led the study at the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities with colleagues at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. — Rueters Health, Dec. 2, 2013

What legacies, what lessons does history offer us today?

What work is stillneeded to win equality for all? ____ Exhibits & programs now through 2015 ____ Focus on Justice: Carolina Photographers and the Civil Rights Movement Now - Jan. 26, 2014

Faces of Freedom Summer: Photographs

by Herbert Randall Feb. 22 - Aug. 17, 2014

JOIN US JANUARY 19-20 FREE ADMISSION! Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Levine Museum presents our annual MLK Day community celebration honoring the pursuit of civil and human rights through film, performances, crafts and exhibits.

LevineMuseum www.museumofthenewsouth.org PRESENTING SPONSOR

200 E. 7th Street., Charlotte 704.333.1887 Open daily EDUCATION SPONSOR

PrideHealth Fast Facts

New Year’s

challenge: Resolve to make your health a priority

D

o you want to live long and live well? Are you modeling health and wellness for your children and grandchildren, or are the young ones around you watching your health/life decline?

The average African American can expect to live 74.5 years, as compared with 78.8 years for the average White American, according to 2010 health statistics reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

African Americans must focus more intently on health and wellness. Be sure to put your diet and fitness routine at the top of your to-do list for 2014. Set realistic goals and check in with an accountability partner. Start slow if you need to: Drink plenty of water and walk at least 30 minutes a day.

Visit your physician, eye doctor and dentist for annual exams. Get plenty of rest and use prayer, meditation and/or yoga to reduce stress. Don’t forget to brush your teeth and floss your gums daily. Consume alcohol in moderation with the approval of your doctor.

If you smoke, resolve to quit this year.

Here’s to increasing more minutes, hours, days, months and years to your life! P

“North Carolina is the 11th most prevalent state in the country when it comes to diabetes and prediabetes, and a significant percentage of people with diabetes are unaware of it.”

— Dr. Zeev Neuwirth, Carolinas HealthCare System

(Editor’s note: Find out more about diabetes prevention and a new online at-risk evaluation tool on page 50.)

How we die

The CDC states African Americans have a disproportionately larger prevalence of the following health conditions: obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, asthma, kidney disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer and HIV. The 10 leading causes of death are: 1. Heart disease 2. Cancer 3. Stroke 4. Diabetes 5. Unintentional injuries 6. Kidney diseases 7. Chronic lower respiratory disease 8. Homicide 9. Septicemia 10. Alzheimer’s disease 56

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Healthy lifestyle apps

• Fooducate • My Diet Coach • Garmin Fit • MyFitnessPal • Symple Symptom Tracker • Drugs.com Medication Guide • KidsDoc • MyQuitCoach

EventsCalendar Special events January 8-25 Hedwig

This comedic play tells the story of an internationally ignored rock goddess who is victimized by a botched sex change operation. Actor’s Theater of Charlotte.

650 E. Stonewall St. See website for times and ticket information. 704-342-2251. www.atcharlotte.org.

January 12 B.B. King Performs

The King of Blues, born Riley B. King, lights up the stage at Knight Theater at the Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St. The legendary singer will perform for one night only at 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $54.50.

704-372-1000. www.blumenthalarts.org.

January 16 The Fresh Beat Band

Nickelodeon’s preschool musical and television performers are “back by popular demand” in a show children and adults can participate in and enjoy.

Children ages 1 and older require a ticket for the performance. 6:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $37.50.

Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Ave. 704-372-3600. www.ovensauditorium.com.

January 17 Blueprint Roundtable

“Why didn’t you leave us a blueprint?” That’s the question emerging black male leaders explore with current community leaders in a high-level discussion at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture in a spirited conversation in this Martin Luther King preview event. 7 p.m. Free. 551 S. Tryon St. 704-547-3700. www.ganttcenter.org.

January 18 Pride Awards

The 21st Annual Pride Awards gala celebrates “Changing the Game with Business Diversity.” The evening will honor one outstanding youth entrepreneur and one organization that displays skilled diversity practices. The Lowe’s Pride Awards, a black tie event, will be held at The Westin Charlotte. 601 S. College St. 704-375-9553. www.prideawards.net.

Laugh for the Cure

Komen Charlotte’s Laugh for the Cure® generates hundreds of laughs and thousands of dollars towards ending breast cancer. Since 2002, this fun-filled evening has raised more than $700,000 to help local women manage a disease that affects them, their families and their co-workers. The evening includes hors d’oeuvres, silent and live auctions and a hilarious PG-13 comedy show featuring headliner, Tammy Pescatelli. 7:15 p.m. $45-$75. Knight Theater at the Levine Center of the Arts. 430 S. Tryon St. www.komencharlotte.org.

January 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Breakfast

This 20th annual event features keynote speaker Hill Harper, star of the top-rated CSI: NY, winner of the NAACP Image Award and motivational speaker. The event is sponsored by the McCrorey YMCA and 58

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Y Achievers. 8 a.m. Tickets $45. 704-716-6513. www.ymcacharlotte.org/mlkprayer.

MLK Teen Summit

This second annual event following the prayer breakfast is free and open to all teens and youth in the community. Keynote speaker Bob Knowling will open a discussion around social justice, higher education, entrepreneurship and civic engagement. Knowling is a top CEO who speaks at YMCA youth events about growing up as one of 13 children in Indiana, shuttling between the homes of his divorced parents, surrounded by crime, poverty, drug abuse and racism.

The Y was his second home and was an integral part of his success. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. McCrorey Y, 3701 Beatties Ford Road. For details, contact YMCA Teen Coordinator Donnell Washington at 704-716-6527 or donnell.washington@ymcacharlotte.org.

MLK Celebrations

Honoring Dr. King’s life, legacy, and mark on humanity, the 2014 celebration includes various events throughout the day at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture. 551 S. Tryon St. Nonmember tickets $5. 704-547-3700. www.ganttcenter.org.

January 29-February 2 Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus The family fun-fest returns with amazing acts, energetic clowns, and breath-taking performances.

This show is literally “built to amaze.” Tickets begin at $19. See website for show times. Time Warner Cable Arena. 333 E. Trade St. 704-688-9000. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

January 31-February 1 The Heart of Motown

and Blumenthal Arts Center. Blumenthal Performing Arts. 7:30 pm. Call for more information.

704-547-3700. www.ganttcenter.org.

February 7 United in Jazz

Enjoy a mixture of sultry soul and sweet savory music during this fourth concert featuring legendary jazz great, Willie Walker. Sponsored by First United Presbyterian Church. Dinner (5 p.m.) and concert $20. Show only $10. Concert 7 p.m. First United Presbyterian Church.

406 N. College St. 704-376-8014. For details, email clerk@fupcc.org.

February 8 Charlotte Black/African-American Heritage Tour and Pilgrimage

This 16th annual event by Queen City Tours features 50 African-American historical sites, including a church where slaves gathered to worship, three slave cemeteries and loads of rhythmic African drumming.

10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Seventh Street Public Market.

704-566-0104. www.queencitytours.com.

February 20-March 15 By the Way, Meet Vera Stark

Lynn Nottage tells the story of the 40-year journey of a headstrong African-American actress from the 1930s who paved the way for black actors in this well-acted stage play. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $17-$31. Actor’s Theater of Charlotte. 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.atcharlotte.org.

February 21-22 Ignite Justice Conference

A musical tribute to Motown by a superb group includes tributes to legendary artists like The Four Tops, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, the Spinners, Stevie Wonder and other performers from yesteryear.

Sponsored by Novant Health. Tickets begin at $39.50. See website for showtimes. Knight Theater at the Levine Center of the Arts. 430 S. Tryon St. 8 pm. 704-372-1000. www.bluementhalarts.org.

A unity of minds and spirits for the cause of justice locally, nationally and globally ignites discussions on how to assist the oppressed and susceptible members of our community. Northside Baptist, Forest Hill and other churches come together to assess and help to resolve this complex societal dilemma. Pre-conference tickets $45. Northside Baptist Church. 333 Jeremiah Blvd. 704-596-4856. www.thejusticeconferencecharlotte.com.

February 1 Portrait Art Battle

February 24-March 1 2014 CIAA Tournament

This first annual competition allows 20 local artists to show their visual talents in a four-round creative rivalry.

The artistic battle includes “Kids Korner” art sessions throughout the day. Gantt Center. 551 S. Tryon St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call for entry details and other information.

704-547-3700. www.ganttcenter.org.

February 4-March 2 The Mountain Top

One of Broadway’s most spell-binding plays about the re-imagining of events that occurred the night before the tragic shooting of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Katori Hall’s fascinating work is being acclaimed by the nation. See website for times. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalarts.org.

February 6 The Mountain Top: A Discussion

An in-depth discussion of Katori Hall’s riveting play about what might have happened on the night before Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in a Memphis hotel room. Sponsored by the Gantt Center

Basketball at its finest with men’s teams and women’s teams sweating it out on the courts. Lots of events and activities surrounding the games.

Time Warner Arena. 333 E. Trade St. See website for times and ticket information. 704-688-9000. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Save the Date!

March 4-9 Evita

The Tony-award winning musical that mesmerized audiences returns to a waiting Charlotte community.

The story of the strong spirited beauty, who rose from the slums of Argentina to First Lady is intriguing and entertaining. See website for times and ticket information. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalarts.org.

Find us on Facebook Need reminders? Stay up to date at www.facebook.com/NCPrideMagazine

LET’S BLAZE A NEW TRAIL.

Lowe’s is honored to sponsor the 2014 Pride Awards Gala in Charlotte, and we salute this year’s trailblazing Pride Award Winners.

Lowe’s is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. ©2013 Lowe’s. LOWE’S, Gable Mansard Design, and Never Stop Improving are registered trademarks of LF, LLC.

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