XRNEWS ROLLERSKATING’S #1 NEWS SOURCE | APRIL/MAY 2009 | VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4/5
RECESSION WOES o t e m i t t Is i up the hang kates? s
HEALTH ALERT
The Silent Killer
Plus
Caught on Camera
2 THE MAX
XR of the Month Lorena Simpson
XRNEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 | VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4/5
XRNEWSZINE.COM | MYSPACE.COM/XTREMEROLLERS | FACEBOOK - XTREMEROLLERS NEWSZINE | TWITTER.COM-XRNEWS
All Skate 5 Feature 6
XR NEWS STAFF Publishing Editor Sherron Phillips
Executive Editor Danica Williams
RECESSION FOR SKATERS?
Senior Editor Leah Bland
Contributing Staff Tami Olewale
XtremeRollers Newszine is a monthly publication for rollerskating enthusiasts. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission from the Publishing Editor.
XR News’ Leah Bland (L) and Danica Williams (R) poses with a skater only known as Rick James at the All Star Extravaganza Weekend in Lousiville, Ky. More pictures on page 14
Health 8
EPILEPSY HALITOSIS
CONTENTS Xtreme Roller of the Month 9
Opinions expressed in signed columns and advertisements are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of XtremeRollers Newszine.
LORENA SIMPSON
XtremeRollers Newszine does not guarantee the publication of any letters or stories under any circumstances and reserves the right to edit all submissions for clarity, length, content and syntax. All materials become the property of XtremeRollers Newszine and may be reproduced only with the written consent of the Publishing Editor.
Send suggestions and comments to: info@xrnewszine.com or call 202.341.9485
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
Lorena with client, super model Tyson Beckford. Story on page 9
Caught on Camera10 World/Finance16 Classifieds17 |3
NEWS XR Publishing Editor Letter From the
Rollerskating’s #1 News Source
What qualities/skills are required to be considered a great skater?
Over the years, I have had countless discussions – or should I say mini debates (smile) – with both skaters and non-skaters regarding this topic. And these discussions often lead to the same questions: who is the best and why? Whether comparing skaters one on one, group to group, or region to region, what makes a particular skater great can be a very difficult question to answer. Moreover, when considering if one is great, should characteristics such as talent and grace come into play? Are great skaters trick-heavy or is simplicity better? In some areas, many talented and graceful skaters go unnoticed; so, is it possible that neither talent nor grace is a factor? Instead, is it the popularity of the skater that is more often a determinant? I like to refer to myself as a rollerskating connoisseur; and, for years, I have not only been an active participant, but also a watcher of various styles of rollerskating. No matter what city I have visited, I almost always have a FAVORITE skater; yet, that does not necessarily make them great, in my opinion. I think that being the best has more to do with how multi-faceted a skater is and how well they can adapt too many styles – not just one. The desire to take the time to master many forms of rollerskating with talent and grace is very impressive to me and shows a willingness to achieve excellence. Nonetheless, the truth of the matter is what people consider to be the best is 100% subjective. Whether its talent, grace or popularity, it is up to an individual to devise his or her own definition of what it means to be a great skater. However, there is a risk to not having a collective ideology about what it means to be the best. Competitions and award ceremonies frequently cause division amongst skaters due to the lack of a shared assessment of what a great rollerskater represents. Perhaps, if there was some type of communal thinking involved in determining who could or should be considered a paramount skater, it might limit some of the discord that is created within the community. Just food for thought…enjoy this month’s issue!
Sherron Phillips
XtremeRollers Newszine (XR News) is a free, monthly online and print publication designed to provide news to rollerskating enthusiasts. XR News is a “newszine”— a self-coined term describing elements of a newsletter and a magazine fused together to produce a high quality, full-color publication. XR News offers an abundance of articles, advertisements and updates about the latest news surrounding all genres of rollerskating and rollerskaters, worldwide. Each section covers topics including politics, health and people, as well as investigative coverage within the rollerskating community.
Subscriptions are FREE! Just provide your name and e-mail address to: info@xrnewszine.com, or call 202.341.9485. If everyone read just their Sunday paper online and there was no paper versions, 500,000 trees would be saved per week! In an effort to help cleanse the enviornment, XR News will not be available in print this month. Instead, we encourage you to GO GREEN by reading your paper online.
XR NEWS WANTS YOU TO GO GREEN
Input
Please
XR News welcomes comments from our readers regarding skate related issues or any article featured in the newszine. In addition, XR News is in search of your story. Tell us about your experience as a skater, issues you want heard, new skate products, skate trends or anything related to rollerskating and rollerskaters — we want to hear it. Currently, we are looking for:
MEN WHO ROLLER DERBY ARE YOU A SKATER WITH A UNIQUE STYLE OR TECHNIQUE OR TALENT? HORROR AND SUCCESSFUL DATING STORIES IN THE RINK BACHELORS & BACHELORETTES
Sherron Phillips | Publishing Editor
SKATER DADS
Do you agree? Or disagree? E-mail your response to: sherron@xrnewszine.com. Please include your name, e-mail and daytime telephone number.
Please send all correspondence to: info@ xrnewszine.com. Information should include your full name, location, e-mail and daytime telephone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and/or space.
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April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
All
Skate Are You the Next Music Video Star? Washington - Tabi Boney is casting for an upcoming video. If interested, submit a headshot and body picture to: skyrepubliccasting@gmail.com.
Skating in Georgetown Washington—The Franklin R. Jelleff Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington hosts a skating program every Saturday night, 7-9:30 p.m. This program takes place during the school year and will end on May 16. Admission is $3 and it only costs $1 to rent skates; roller blades are not allowed. Jelleff skating has been a fun adventure for kids since 1979 and has a diverse group of children that participate from all sections of the city. In addition to the Saturday night skating program, Jelleff offers a variety of programs in the areas of sports, education, recreation and the arts. The Franklin R. Jelleff Boys & Girls Club is located at, 3265 S Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. For additional information on “Jelleff Skating” or other programs offered through the club, please contact Bob Stowers at: 202. 462.1317.
Toure and Group Performs for Military Fort Belvoir, VA—Toure Clark will be performing along with 14 singers at the 2009 U.S. Army Solider Show, “Year of the NCO,” opening night on April 24. The performance will be held for soldiers and their families, and will take place at the Fort Belvoir Wallace Theater. The free event starts at 7:00 p.m., and is open to the public.
Energy in the Middle Gives Back to the Community Brooklyn, NY—Harry from Energy in the Middle has teamed up with the Sports & Arts in Schools Foundation to teach a rollerskating class to high school students at Harlem’s Frederick Douglass Academy. The high school students are taught dance rollerskating and are using skates from the former Empire roller rink. Harry is elated to have an opportunity to give back to the community, “This is my gift from God; the ability to teach others dance rollerskating.” Sports & Arts in School Foundation is a not-for-profit that seeks to improve the lives of New York City public school students. The foundation offers an array of services such as academic enrichment; youth development; sports; fitness and wellness;
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
visual and performing arts; community service programs; and educational and recreational field trips. The Sports & Arts in School Foundation serves students in grades 1-12 from typically low-income households or poor academic schools. For more information about programs offered through Sports & Arts in schools foundation, please visit their website at: http://www. sasfny.org/.
RH Rollerbones Have Arrived! San Jose—Professional rollerskater and entrepreneur, Richard Humphrey’s “Rhythm” Rollerbones are now available for purchase. These wheels are black and silver and 97/62mm. A complete skate package is available that includes the RH boot, Custom Classic NTS Sure Grip Plate, the new RH Rhyth Rollerbone wheels and your choice of bearings.
Now Showing! Rolling In The Carolinas 2009 Dallas—WBSA.TV has posted a video of the NSC Freestylers titled, “Rolling in the Carolinas 2009.” The video features clips from skate parties and events that were held in Charlotte, N.C., March 20-22.
Sk8-A-Thon 09 Features Sk8ers Workshop Atlanta—TRU SK8ER UNIVERSITY has teamed up with Joi’s Sk8-A-Thon to offer classes to participants that teach beginner, intermediate, and advanced rollerskaters various skating techniques this year. Sk8ers Workshop instructors will provide several lessons including, Skating 101 and Partners/Couple Skating 550 that will be held at Skate Towne Skating Rink in College Park, Ga., Sept. 4, 6-7. TRU SK8ER UNIVERSITY is an organization composed of several advanced skaters in the United States whose purpose is to spread a passion for the art of rollerskating.
Trendsettas Involved in New Merger
Louisville, KY—The Ohio Trendsettas Skate Crew officially announced their merger with the 502 Crew during the First Annual All Star Skaters Extravaganza, Midwest Collaboration, on Sunday, April 12. Wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the new “502 Trendsettas” logo, club members excitedly shared news of their decision to merge together with their fellow skaters. Known for their stunts, sliding, jumps and stomps, the Ohio Trendsettas noticed the creative skating style of the 502 Crew shortly after they began traveling to Louisville for skate sessions. “We noticed that they [skated trios] a little faster, with more precision and style than any of the others,” said Trendsettas founder Bee 1. “We all conversed…and it was instant chemistry.” The Continued on page 15
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Feature Story
Recession Woes Is the economy taking a toll on the skating community? by Sherron Phillips 6 |
“I work more so that I can skate,”
explains Maryland native Ann Hanible. Like her, many skate patrons, skating rinks and skate vendors are having a difficult time surviving during the recession. Less jobs and higher utility costs have forced some in the rollerskating industry to find alternate methods to get through the tough times. However, while some are saying that the strain of the economy is becoming more grueling, others appear to be moving with ease, insisting that the recession is not hindering their ability to skate. The Nay Sayers Many consider rollerskating a necessity, often including the sport in their personal budgets as a needed expense. Thus, the effects of the recession are not as apparent to them. Traveling to skate parties, purchasing skates and attending skate sessions are just as ordinary as purchasing groceries at the supermarket. The Yay Sayers While some seem immune to the effects of the recession, others are strangled by the tight grip that the economy has on them. It seems that complaints about the increase of admittance into parties, club uniform costs and the transportation costs for travel to and from the rinks are heard more often than usual. Relief is on the Way Although it appears to be no decline in profits or attendance at some skating rinks, several rinks are offering patrons special deals. Skating rinks across the nation have chosen to offer discounted admissions, hold customer appreciation nights and support local charities because they recognize that there has been a decline in the nation’s economy.•
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
MIXED
REVIEWS ABOUT THE RECESSION “I'm the lead instructor [and creator of] the TRU SK8ER UNIVERSITY skating program. We normally teach in semester blocks, with class sizes averaging up to 12 students. The stiff economy has definitely taken [a] toll on class participation. High gas prices made it a hard decision to come out and participate for folks who needed to decide between learning to skate or making sure they had gas to get to work the next day (or whatever other economic decisions they had to make between their luxuries and their priorities). Due to dwindling numbers, the staff had to be skimmed back; [and] four of the other instructors had to [be] placed on call. We are doing a lot of private lessons and people might come out to one or two classes, but, as a whole, our numbers are nothing compared to [what] they were two years ago, at this same time. There has been a recent upswing over the last few months…but overall, the end of '08 was really pretty scary! We're based out of Skate Towne Skating Rink in College Park, Ga. Without question, the sting has been felt, to some degree, by the owners. But, what seems consistent is that folks –adults and children– continue to skate, if [for] nothing else, out of sheer passion for the sport. Though not quite as often as in the past, still enough to keep the fire going. … Personally, I had keep skating to take my mind off of how rough things seemed to be…” —SEVE ADIGUN, TRU SK8ER UNIVERSITY “As a member of the Jivebiscuit staff, the recession has made us limit the amount of skate parties we can attend. We search for other methods to cut expenses, so [that] we can attend parties. The great part of this [is that] it has allowed more fellowship with other skaters, such as staying in alternate locations – like someone's home – while traveling.“ —TRISTINA ALLEN, 1st Lady of Jivebiscuit “…the mood in which [Los Angeles] skaters have moved around has been consistent and, therefore, [World on Wheels April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
Skating Rink (WOW)] has not seen any real effects of the recession. World on Wheels has taken steps to stay in tune with our audience and prepare promotions and special events that reflect our environment. We do this by [offering] discounted admissions, random customer appreciation nights, supporting local charities, schools and churches. We personalize our relationship with our customers and they receive us with open arms. They know are intentions are on a human level. We mean to strengthen our relationship with them versus looking at them as a dollar amount. I believe strongly [that] this forward movement is extremely important, keeps us relevant and, ultimately, makes us the better choice in recreational entertainment.” —WILL NESBITT, Director of Promotions, World on Wheels Roller Skating “...the economy is affecting my skating. I live in Brooklyn, N.Y., and skate at RollerJamUSA on Staten Island. The [toll] bridge is $10.00 and, now, the city is talking about raising the toll to $13.00! It’s insane [but], I managed to get my daughter and partner into skating. So, there are nights that between the bridge and the rink entrance fees, it’s almost $50.00 to just get there and walk in the door – forget the snack bar. I like that my family of three skates together…[it’s] good for our health, relationships and it’s something that I enjoy as much as my 8-year-old and that’s not easy to find. We were skating [twice] a week but that’s $80.00 a month just for the bridge [and] if you add the entrance fee and the snack bar – AHHHHHH. We have been cutting down to [one time a] week.“ —LUCILLE, Brooklyn, N.Y. “We are affected by the recession, since several of our skaters have lost jobs in the past couple months. So, not as many [people] can travel to events and games and, overall, we have become more conservative with spending because of it. Luckily, though, we have actually started to see bigger numbers at our games. People are looking for inexpensive ways to spend a Saturday night and coming to a roller derby game is one of them!” —HOLLY PRESCOTT, Penn Jersey She Devils – Levittown, Pa. “I can't say that the recession is affecting my rollerskating activities. However, I believe that the frequency of parties is where [I have] to pick and choose. It seems like every weekend there is something going on back-to-back and I just can't attend everything. I find myself having to pick and choose which events I will or won't patronize. As a member of a club, yes...the recession has affected my spending. I'm not going to purchase a new shirt or uniform for every event. I think that we should try to use what we have already purchased, maybe switching some things up to add a little flavor. The money crunch has also had many skate club members paying closer attention to what is actually being done with the dues money that they put into their clubs. Many more members are questioning how dues [are] spent, and the actual need for paying dues. We are all feeling this recession, in one way or another. For myself, I'm just a little more frugal with my spending when it comes to skating and the other activities associated with it.” LISA JENSON – Baltimore
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Health
Alert
Seizure Disorder Epilepsy by Leah Bland
About 200,000 new cases of epilepsy are diagnosed in the United States each year. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition that affects anestimated 2.5 million people in the United States. Known for causing frequent seizures, epilepsy is also referred to as “seizure disorder.” A seizure happens when irregular electrical activity in the brain causes an involuntary change in muscle control, movement, speech, awareness or vision. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that each year, epilepsy accounts for $15.5 billion in direct and indirect costs. Epilepsy is not a type of mental illness or retardation and usually does not affect how individuals learn or think. Because epilepsy is a chronic condition, it cannot be transmitted from person to person. In many instances, doctors do not know what causes epilepsy. Less than half of the people with epilepsy know that they have it. In some cases a head injury, brain tumor, brain infection or stroke can cause this condition. A person will usually be diagnosed with epilepsy if they have had two or more seizures. Doctors may use a test known as an EEG, electroencephalogram, to predict whether a person will have more seizures. This test involves wires attached to a person’s scalp to record brain waves. Certain patterns on the EEG are typical of epilepsy. If the individual’s brain waves show patterns of that type, they are about twice as likely to develop epilepsy as someone who does not have those patterns. Some people with epilepsy have no special seizure triggers, while others are able to recognize things in their lives that do affect their seizures. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, the most frequent cause of an unexpected seizure is failure to take the medication as prescribed. Other factors include ingesting substance, hormone fluctuations, stress, sleep patterns and photosensitivity. Once epilepsy is diagnosed, it is important to begin treatment
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immediately. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) found that for 80 percent of people diagnosed with epilepsy can be controlled with modern medicines and surgical techniques. In 1997, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the vagus nerve stimulator for use in people with seizures that are not well-controlled by medication. Epilepsy can develop in any person, at any age, and men are more likely than women to have this condition. New cases of epilepsy are most common among children – especially during the first year of life. The rate of new cases gradually declines until around the age of 10. After the age of 55 or 60, the rate starts to increase, as people develop strokes, brain tumors or Alzheimer’s disease. Children younger than two years of age and adults over 65 are most likely to be affected. In addition, the CDC states that people of low socioeconomic status and those who live in urban areas are at increased risk for epilepsy. Epilepsy affects each person differently. According to NINDS, it is not uncommon for people with epilepsy, especially children, to develop behavioral and emotional problems. This can stem from embarrassment, frustration, bullying, teasing or avoidance in schools and other social settings. For many people living with epilepsy, the risk of seizures restricts their independence and recreational activities. However, the majority of people with this condition lead normal lives. Even though epilepsy cannot be cured, therapy and education are the best methods for managing seizures and taking control of your life.•
The Silent Killer— HALITOSIS
Halitosis (bad breath) is a condition that affects an estimated 50 to 60 percent of Americans. Bad breath can be short-term or long-term, depending on the cause. It can signify: the need to clean the teeth and mouth more often; tooth or gum disease; or intestinal disorders. According to the University of California, San Diego, up to 90 percent of cases are thought to originate from sources in the mouth, including poor oral hygiene; periodontal (gum) disease; coating on the tongue; impacted food; and throat infections. The other causes of halitosis, which account for the remaining 10 percent of cases, are diabetes, drugs, heavy metal accumulation, liver disease, poor diet, not eating, smoking, sulfur, stress and tooth decay. Eliminating gum disease and maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. The following self-care steps may help prevent halitosis: • • • • • •
Brush teeth at least twice a day Floss regularly Scrub the tongue Clean and replace your toothbrush regularly Avoid mouthwashes with flavorings, dyes and alcohol Get a dental checkup every six months
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
XR of the Month Lorena Simpson by Danica Williams
Every so often, the skate community is graced to have a star in its presence. Nothing is more exciting than to see that radiance begin to illuminate within one of our very own avid skaters. Such is the case with this month’s choice for “XtremeRoller of the Month,” up-andcoming celebrity make-up artist Lorena “Pooh” Simpson. A native of Maryland, Lorena began skating at the tender age of 10. “I used to go with members of my church,” said Simpson. “Our church would take skating field trips to Seabrook in Lanham, Md.” Shortly thereafter, Lorena began to attend skate sessions with friends at Kalorama Roller Skating Rink in Washington, D.C. She has been actively skating for nearly 30 years and has traveled to out of town events in North Carolina, Atlanta, Delaware, Baltimore and Virginia. Lorena is a co-founder and former member of the Midnight Angels, an all-female style skating club that featured some of the premier skaters in the Washington Metropolitan area. Known for her infecApril/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
tious laugh and warm demeanor, Lorena is often found skating in the middle of the rink or smoothly rolling on the outside lane during trios. “I am not a fast skater by far,” Simpson said. “I like to dance and step in the middle with my mentor, Woody.” Until recently, she had been a fixture of D’Light Skate N Palace Roller Rink (formerly Skate Palace) in Temple Hills, Md. However, Lorena’s career as a make-up artist and image consultant has been keeping her busy. “I am lucky if I am able to attend six skate sessions per year,” she said. “My career has slowed down my skating because I am often out of town working with clientele.” Not that she’s complaining – because business is booming for the licensed media make-up artist, educator, and image consultant. Lorena has provided her make-up expertise to the entertainment industry in the form of media, glamour, runway, FX special effects, commercial, print, film, music, stage and literature. Her skillful artistry has brought radiance to numerous famous faces, including: Academy Award-nominated and
Golden Globe Award-winning actress Angela Bassett; Tony Award-nominated and Image Award-nominated actor Courtney B. Vance; “America’s Next Top Model” contestant Bianca Golden; legendary R&B and gospel singer Ann Nesby; and supermodels, Oluchi Onweagba, Alek Wek and Tyson Beckford. When she does have an opportunity to attend a skate session, Lorena enjoys the change of pace as well as catching up with her fellow skaters. “When I do get to skate, I like to see the people,” she said. “Skating is a great workout, that is enjoyable and an outlet that brings me some relief – especially on long, stressful days.” On the nights that Lorena is able to roll around the rink, she aims to put in as much time on the wood as possible. “I am passionate [about the sport] because it’s in my blood,” said Simpson. “I will always be a rollerskater.” We look forward to seeing you shine on the wood soon, Lorena.•
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Caught on
Camera-Brought to you by Sk8photos.com Rolling in the Carolinas | Charlotte, NC | March 20-22, 2009
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Caught on
Camera-We’ll Make You Famous Rolling in the Carolinas | Charlotte, NC | March 20-22, 2009
XR News has partnered with Sk8photos.com to present “Caught on Camera,” a section where skaters can see themselves in action. We also feature other photos submitted by skate coordinators, managers and rollerskaters, worldwide. Submit your photos today! Send all photos with the photographer’s name, the event and date to: info@xrnewszine.com, in the subject title, please add “ Caught on Camera.” 11 |
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
Caught on
Camera-Brought to you by Sk8photos.com All Star Extravaganza | Louisville, KY | April 10-12
Want to see more great skate event pictures? Visit Sk8photos.com April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
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Caught on
Camera-We’ll Make You Famous All Star Extravaganza | Louisville, KY | April 10-12
Want to see more great skate event pictures? Visit facebook.com - Search XtremeRollers 13 |
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
Caught on
Camera-We’ll Make You Famous
Skate for Life to Benefit Action Aids | Penn Jersey She Devils | Mt. Laurel, NJ | March 28, 2009
Photos taken by: King Taco
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
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ALL SKATE
continued from page 5 two groups then began to skate and exchange styles with each other – and a bond quickly formed. “We were always a skate family but, at that point, we became brothers,” said Bee 1. Originating in Louisville, the 502 Crew has four members, ranging in age from 16 to 25 years. They are known locally for performing at parties, shows and various events at rinks in their hometown. Established in June 2006, the Ohio Trendsettas skate club began collaborating with the 502 Crew in August 2008; their clubs merged together in March of this year. The 502 Trendsettas are the newest addition to the Trendsetta Empire, which now consists of nearly 25 members. Trendsetta skate crews span over five different cities and are identified by their area code including: 216 Trendsettas in Cleveland; 330 Trendsettas in Akron, Ohio; 614 Trendsettas in Columbus, Ohio; 513 Trendsettas in Cincinnati; and 502 Trendsettas in Louisville, Ky.
super hero costumes to entertain onlookers on the parade trail. The Anacostia Rollers & Friends, Inc., plan to participate in a host of other events in the Washington Metropolitan area, including the “African-American Historic Unifest Parade” and “America’s 2009 Independence Day Parade,” which will be held on Saturday, July 4th.
POST YOUR SKATE UPDATES HERE! This section provides the latest information about rollerkskaters, worldwide. Whether it’s a skater impacting their community or updates on rink closings, “All Skate” is the place to provide readers with the happenings that impact skaters and skating in your area. Tell everyone what’s happening with skaters in your area.com
Woman Down! P.G. County, MD- Former XR News staff member Melissa ‘Queen Bee” Sharpe-Jones is doing well after surgery and is recovering at home. Missy says that she “really misses [skating]” and believes that it is imperative that she remains active; so, she plans to be back on the wood very soon.
Not Just Talking the Talk, but Walking the Walk Philadelphia – Philly Sk8 Connection will participate in Philadelphia’s “Take Steps, Crohn’s & Colitis Walk” on May 30. The club stated that they are making “a bold commitment to making a difference in the lives of those suffering from digestive diseases” and would like for others to support there efforts by joining their team. For more information about Crohn’s & Colitis, visit: www.ccfa.org.
XR News Thanks Hoodtimes and The All Star Skaters Extravaganza, Midwest Collaboration XR News would like to formally thank Hoodtimes for their generosity in Charlotte, N.C., and also the All Star Skaters Extravaganza, Midwest Collaboration for their hospitality in Louisville, Ky.
Anacostia Rollers Participates in the Cherry Blossom Parade Washington, D.C. – Nearly 20 members of the Anacostia Rollers & Friends, Inc., participated in the 2009 Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington, D.C. Most of the group dressed in
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World & Finance
Section
Breaking Down the Recession Ten Tips to Keep You Afloat by Tami Ojewale Most financial experts agree that the economy began its swift downturn around December 2007. The current state of the economy has generated a surge of financial expert appearances on news media, offering financial advice to the public. The reduction in home/property sales and an increase in jobs losses has created more than 2 million Google searches on “financial tips for 2009” as Americans try to grasp and have a better understanding of personal finances. In recent months, home prices and mortgage rates have come down. However, lenders have tightened their requirements for borrowers. Wells Fargo requires a FICO credit score of 720 on all conventional loans for borrowers who cannot put down at least 20 percent for down payment on a home. As a result, higher mandatory down payments and high credit scores have shrunken the pool of qualified borrowers. According to Realty Trac’s foreclosure report, more than 800,000 properties have faced foreclosure proceedings in the first quarter of 2009. Nevada, California and Arizona have the top state foreclosure rates in the nation. The Bureau of Labor statistics reported that the unemployment rate has increased from 8.1 to 8.5 percent. And an estimated 13.2 million people are unemployed in the United States. To offset the increase in foreclosures, the Obama Administration has created the “Making Home Affordable” loan modification and refinancing program. The program expects to assist seven to nine million Americans trying to make a good-faith attempt to pay their mortgages, while trying to avoid defaulting on payments. The program’s website was launched on March 19, by the U.S. Department of Treasury and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It provides service tools for homeowners such as self-assessment tools for borrowers to determine their eligibility for the program; a calculator feature that estimates the reduction to monthly mortgage payments under the program; and HUD-approved counseling services for borrowers. In February 2009, Federal Chairman Ben Bernanke stated that he expects the recession to end by late 2009, and that 2010 “will be the year of recovery.” In order to reach the goal of financial stability, Congress has mandated the Federal Reserve to promote sustainable employment; stabilize prices; and contain financial disruptions from spreading outside of the financial sector.
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Here Are Ten Tips Compiled By Various Financial Experts To Keep You Afloat In And Out Of The Recession: 1. CREATE A BUDGET
Take a close look at your monthly spending, determine where you are spending the most and start eliminating excess spending.
2. BUILD AND/OR RETHINK YOUR EMERGENCY FUND
Put enough in your fund so you can still maintain your monthly expenses.
3. KEEP YOUR CREDIT CARD DEBT LOW SO YOUR MONEY CAN GROW
If you are having problems making your minimum balance, do not ignore your credit card company. Ask them to renegotiate the annual percentage rate (APR) in order to lower your monthly payments.
4. EVALUATE YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN
Do not stop investing in your retirement accounts.
5. LEARN FINANCIAL LINGO
Equip yourself with financial terms in order to thoroughly understand mortgage documents, credit card agreements and long-term savings plans.
6. GET ORGANIZED
Keep your financial records in order to save time, money and trouble in the event of an emergency.
7. UTILIZE YOUR EMPLOYER BENEFITS
Employment benefits like medical and dental insurance, 401(k) plans, and flexible spending accounts can save you a lot of money in the long run. Take advantage of the ones that can save you money by reducing taxes or out-of-pocket expenses.
8. MARKET YOURSELF
With employment uncertainty, now is the best time to revamp your resume.
9. KNOW YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Request a free credit report annually and correct any errors by contacting the credit bureaus in WRITING!
10. SEEK HELP
Meet with a qualified financial advisor to create a financial plan that is specifically designed to help manage your financial goals.
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
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Danica M. Williams
President
PO Box 90904 Washington, DC 20090-0904 Tel: 202.251.6851 dwilliams@vividcompositions.com www.vividcompositions.com Personalized Service Done WRITE!
_________________________________
EVENTS & SESSIONS Apr-July 2009 ADULT STYLE SKATING SESSIONS EAST - CT, DC, DE, MA,
MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT DELAWARE
Elsmere Adrenaline Skating Center Sundays & Thursdays adrenalineskating.com
MARYLAND Baltimore Shake N Bake
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
Sundays & Wednesdays LavishLife Ent. 1st Fridays 410.669.9100 snbskating.com Lanham Wheel-A-While Wednesdays 301.577.8889 Temple Hills D’ Light Skate N Palace Sundays & Thursdays dlightskate.org Towson Skateland Orchard Wednesdays & 1st Saturdays 410.669.9100 snbskating.com Woodlawn SkateWorks illb25y2k@aol.com
NEW JERSEY
Camden Millennium Skate World Wednesdays & Thursdays MillenniumSkateWorld.com Hackettestown Excel Skating Center 1st Thursdays Newark Branchbrook Rollerskating Rink 1st Thursdays & Saturdays 1st, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 973.482.8900 Woodbridge United Skates of America Thursdays
NEW YORK
Brooklyn Crazy Legs Skate Club @ the Salvation Army Bldg. Porky’s Club/Lounge contact@rollergirlmusic.com Seaford United Skates of America 3rd Fridays Staten Island Rollerjam USA
Saturdays http://rollerjamusa.com
SOUTHEAST - AL, AR,
FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV FLORIDA
Miami Super Wheels Skating Center superwheelsmiami.com Orlando Universal Skating Center 1st & 3rd Saturdays orlandorollbounce@yahoo.com
GEORGIA
VIRGINIA
Richmond Skateland Richmond Richmond, VA 1st Fridays 804.283.2337
WEST - CA, NV, UT, CO,
WY, ID, OR, WA, MT, HI, AK CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles World On Wheels Sundays & Tuesdays (18 + older) Thursdays (25 + older) 4th Saturdays (18 + older)
College Park SkateTowne College Nite Sundays hosted by Hoodtimes
Wumpskate (2nd Mondays) Featuring gothic & trance music wowsk8.com
Thursdays 404.768.0095
San Francisco Skatin Place 6th Ave. and JFK Dr. Golden Gate Park Sundays - Outdoors www.skatingplace.com
Morrow Skate Zone Skating Rink Tuesdays 770.960.1400 Stone Mountain All American Skate Center 678.334.6393 Joi’s Sk8-A-Thon 1st Saturdays Empire Nights 4th Saturdays F8L Attraction Skate Crew Sundays
KENTUCKY
Louisville Manslick Rollerdome DJ Syncere Fridays
Midnight Rollers(SF) Friday Night Skate Ferry Plaza - Market St. and the Embarcadero Fridays - Outdoors skatingplace.com
MIDWEST - OH, IL, IN, MO, KS, IA, NE, SD, ND, MN, WI, MI ILLINOIS
Chicago Martin Luther King, Jr. Park and Family Ent. Center Thursdays & Fridays mlkskating.com
NORTH CAROLINA
Raleigh Skate Ranch Duncan Pea & TruSk8 Ent. Sundays
The Rink Roll-Out Entertainment Chicago, IL 1st Fridays myspace.com/rolloutentertainment
K97.5 w/Brian Dawson 1st Thursdays www.skateranchofraleigh.com
Palatine Orbit Skate Center Palatine, IL Continued on following page
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CLASSIFIEDS
continued from previous page Saturday Midnight Ramble 847.394.9199
MICHIGAN
Grand Blanc - Starts May 7 NEW Rollhaven Skating Rink Thursday Rolletts Nite 810.449.5817 Mt. Morris Skateland Arena R&B Wednesdays 810.686.6110
OHIO
Cincinnati The Skatin Place Saturday Night Adult Skate 513.522.2424 Columbus United Skates of America 2nd & 3rd Sundays 614.470.2805
MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT MARYLAND
Baltimore May 23 CHARM CITY ROLLER GIRLS Night Terrors vs. Mobtown Mods Junkyard Dolls vs. Speed Regime June 13 CHARM CITY ROLLER GIRLS Night Terrors vs. Mobtown Mods Junkyard Dolls vs. Speed Regime July 18 CHARM CITY ROLLER GIRLS Night Terrors vs. Mobtown Mods Junkyard Dolls vs. Speed Regime charmcityrollergirls.net
NEW JERSEY
Laurel Apr. 25 PENN JERSEY SHE DEVILS ROLLER DERBY Sadistic Sweethearts vs. Dishonor Roll Game shedevilsrollerderby.com
Euclid Rollerdome 1st Fridays 216.857.5783
Wildwoods May 9 SOUTH JERSEY DERBY GIRLS Roller Derby Expo shedevilsrollerderby.com
SOUTHWEST - AZ, NM,
NEW YORK
OK, TX OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma City Roll-A-Way Rink Sunday Old School roll-a-wayrink@sbcglobal.net
TEXAS
San Antonio The Rollercade San Antonio, TX Sunday Hip Hop Skate 501.247.4764 _________________________________
ADULT JAM SKATING EVENTS
No Sessions Reported _________________________________
ADULT ROLLER DERBY EVENTS
EAST - CT, DC, DE, MA, 18 |
Manhattan Apr. 25 GOTHAM GIRLS ROLLER DERBY Championship Rematch! Queens of Pain vs. Bronx Gridlock May 16 Brooklyn Bombshells vs. Manhattan Mayhem June 13 Manhattan Mayhem vs. Queens of Pain July 11 Bronx Gridlock vs. Brooklyn Bombshells 888.830.2253
SOUTHEAST - AL, AR,
FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV GEORGIA
Atlanta May 16 DIRTY SOUTH DERBY GIRLS
DSDG vs. Dominion Rollergirls Apocalypstix vs Sake Tuyas June 20 DIRTY SOUTH DERBY GIRLS Sake Tuyas vs. Toxic Shocks B-Team vs. Rogue Rollergirls July 25 DIRTY SOUTH DERBY GIRLS DSDG vs. Denver Roller Dolls Apocalypstix vs. Denim Demons
MIDWEST - OH, IL, IN,
MO, KS, IA, NE, SD, ND, MN, WI, MI MICHIGAN Grandville May 2 DETROIT DERBY GIRLS Detroit Derby Girls vs. Grand Rapids Double Header detroitrollerderby.com
MISSOURI
St. Louis Apr. 24-26 14th ANNUAL SUPER SKATING EXTRAVAGANZA 314.382.1112
WEST - CA, NV, UT, CO,
WY, ID, OR, WA, MT, HI, AK COLORADO
Denver May 2 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROLLERGIRLS Bladium Sports Club rockymountainrollergirls.com
SOUTHWEST - AZ, NM, OK, TX
Phoenix May 16 ARIZONA ROLLER DERBY Battle Royale Chamionship azrollerderby.com _________________________________
ADULT STYLE SKATING EVENTS EAST - CT, DC, DE, MA,
MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT MARYLAND
Baltimore
May 9 1ST ANNUAL SKATE PARTY Low Riders Skate Club 443.857.3637 June 12-13 2ND ANNUAL “SOLID GOLD SK8T EXPLOSION” NATIONAL SK8T PARTY Master Rollers Sk8t Club 240.460.3151 Laurel May 1-3 ADRENALIN AWARDS adrenalinawards.com
NEW YORK
Brooklyn May 19 FUNKY SKATE PRODUCTIONS The Anniversary Skate Party The Lab Entertainment Complex dj_mrg2004@yahoo.com Buffalo Apr. 24-25 CHOZEN ONE SKATERS Zeak’s 2-Day Birthday Celebration Arcadia Skating Rink
PENNSYLVANIA
Pittsburgh June 5-6 1ST ANNUAL WE “R” ONE SIXBURGH SKATE JAM Wheels of Steel More Details Coming Sonn!
SOUTHEAST - AL, AR,
FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV FLORIDA
Jacksonville Apr. 24-26 ANNUAL MIDNIGHT TO SUNLIGHT Seville on Wheels More Details Coming!
NORTH CAROLINA
Charlotte July 11 1ST ANNUAL SKATERS PARADISE Skate Hollywood Inc. More Details Coming!
TENNESSE Continued on following page
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
CLASSIFIEDS
continued from previous page Nashville July 24-25 1ST ANNUAL SKATING EXTRAVAGANZA Nashville Quad Dymes 615.483.4285
VIRGINIA
Virginia Beach May 16 BOUNCE AT THE BEACH 7even City Rollers 757.477.6240 May 22-25 SYNERGY ON THE BEACH SynergyTeam2009 804.677.1772
WEST - CA, NV, UT, CO,
WY, ID, OR, WA, MT, HI, AK CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles May 21-24 4th ANNUAL BACK TO CALI DJ Big Bert and DJ Spin 323.602.3938
MIDWEST - OH, IL, IN, MO, KS, IA, NE, SD, ND, MN, WI, MI ILLINOIS
Chicago June 26-28 25 & OLDER NATIONAL SKATERS REUNION Sherri’s Skate Production 317.291.5221 Richton Park May 29-30 2 FLIGHT ABOARD CHI-FORCE 1 Chi Force chi-force.com
MICHIGAN
Detroit May 22-25 13th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL SKATING AFFAIR
MISSOURI St. Louis Apr. 24-26
April/May 2009 | XR NEWS | www.XRnewszine.com
ANNUAL SUPER SKATING EXTRAVAGANZA Skills on Wheels
OHIO
Cinncinnati May 22-24 THE DREAM IS REAL WEEKEND2009 OperationStepUp.com July 31-Aug. 2 OHIO SKATE EXPLOSION 513.631.1311 Dayton June 5-6 2ND ANNUAL STRIDE OR DIE Gem City Rollers 937.294.4032 Elyria June 19-21 GO WITH THE FLOW C-Land Freestyle Rollers 216.857.5783 Youngstown May 15-16 THIRD TIME IS A CHARM Pittsburgh Steel City Rollers 412.337.0574
WISCONSIN
Milwaukee July 17-19 WEEKEND IN WISCONSIN IV More Details Coming!
SOUTHWEST - AZ, NM,
OK, TX TEXAS
Dallas June 12-14 THE TEXAS SKATE JAM Showtime Rollers 972.283.8389
__________________________
FAMILY SESSIONS
EAST - CT, DC, DE, MA,
MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Washington Anacostia Park
MARYLAND
Baltimore Shake N Bake Wednesdays & Sundays
410.669.9100 snbskating.com Lanham Wheel-A-While Tuesdays, Saturdays & Sundays 301.577.8889 Temple Hills D’ Light Skate N Palace Tuesdays, Saturdays & Sundays www.dlightskate.org Towson Skateland Orchard Saturdays 410.669.9100 snbskating.com
NEW JERSEY
Camden Millennium Skate World Two Dollar Tuesdays Sundays & Saturdays MillenniumSkateWorld.com
WEST - CA, NV, UT, CO,
WY, ID, OR, WA, MT, HI, AK CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles World On Wheels Fridays-Sundays wowsk8.com San Francisco Bobby’s Humpday Roller Boogie 6th Ave. and Kennedy Drive Golden Gate Park Wednesdays - Outdoors skatingplace.com
SOUTHEAST - AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV GEORGIA Stone Mountain All American Skate Center 678.334.6393
MIDWEST - OH, IL, IN,
MO, KS, IA, NE, SD, ND, MN, WI, MI INDIANA
Angola Conaways Rollerway 260.833.3550
ILLINOIS
Chicago Martin Luther King, Jr. Park and Family Ent Center mlkskating.com
SOUTHWEST - AZ, NM, OK, TX
No Sessions Reported
CANADA
Edmonton SportsWorld Roller Disco Tuesdays - Retro Night Fridays-Sundays sports-world.ca/ ___________________________________
FAMILY EVENTS None Reported
OTHER None Reported ________________ BUS TRIPS No entries
_____________________
DEE JAYS DJ FLY TY 973.296.0132
DJ SPIN d_seabrooks@yahoo.com _________________________________
HELP WANTED
FREELANCE NATIONAL WRITERS, REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS XR News is seeking writers for various sections of the Newszine. To apply, contact Sherron Phillips, 202.341.9485 or info@xrnewszine. com.
YOUTH CLASSIFIEDS
PART-TIME NATIONAL AND LOCAL YOUTH WRITERS AND REPORTERS XR News is seeking writers for various sections of the Newszine. To apply, contact Sherron Phillips, 202.341.9485 or info xrnewszine.com.
___________________________ Continued on following page
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CLASSIFIEDS
continued from previous page
SKATE INSTRUCTION CALIFORNIA
ROLLERDANCE.COM
MARYLAND SKATE CITY 301.433.0076
___________________________
SKATE REPAIR
Association CORA.ORG
STYLE SKATING
Women’s Flat Track Derby Assn. WFTDA.COM
(TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE)
Rollerskating Assn. International ROLLERSKATING.ORG Old School Derby Association
OLDSCHOOLDERBYASSOCIATION.COM
JAM SKATING
JAMSKATINGENT.COM JAMSKATE.COM VANILLASKATECO.COM SKATEFM.COM JAMSKATINGONLINE.COM
URBANSKATELINKS.COM SKATEGROOVE.COM JIVEBISCUIT.COM GETYOURSK8ON.COM TUGGERPRODUCTIONS.COM SK8PHOTOS.COM MIKEFROMPHILLY.COM SKATEDJS.COM ADRENALINAWARDS.COM HTTP://WWW.QUADSK8.NL HTTP://STYLESK8RS.NING.COM
ROLLER DERBY
_________________________________
TEAM RECRUITMENT ROLLER DERBY
San Diego Roller Derby San Diego, CA info@sdderbystarlettes.com
_____________________
VIDEOGRAPHERS THE BLUE GUERILLAS myspace.com/blueguerrillas
______________________
WEBCASTS BODYGUARD SKATE TALK Mondays jivebiscuit.com THE SKATIN PLACE skatinplace.com WILLIAMS BROS. ADVENTURES wbsa.tv
________________________
WEBSITES
ROLLERSKATING ASSOCIATIONS
ACDERBY.COM ALAMOCITYROLLERGIRLS.COM ANGELCITYDERBYGIRLS.COM ATLANTAROLLERGIRLS.COM AZROLLERDERBY.COM BOSTONDERBYDAMES.COM CAROLINAROLLERGIRLS.COM CHARMCITYROLLERGIRLS.COM DCROLLERGIRLS.COM DERBYORDIE.COM DERBYDEVILS.COM DERBYNEWSNETWORK.COM DETROITDERBYGIRLS.COM DIXIEDERBYGIRLS.COM DRESSDERBY.COM DUKECITYDERBY.COM FASTGIRLSKATES.COM GEMCITYROLLERGIRLS.COM GRANDRAGGIDYROLLERGIRLS.COM
MADROLLINDOLLS.COM NORTHSTARROLLERGIRLS.COM OHIOROLLERGIRLS.COM OMAHAROLLERGIRLS.COM OKLAHOMAVICTORYDOLLS.COM PHILLYROLLERGIRLS.COM RINKRASHSKATEWEAR.COM ROLLERGIRLSKATES.COM SHEDEVILSROLLERDERBY.COM SINCITYSKATES.COM TAMPABAYDERBYDARLINS.COM
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