Black & Magazine FEB|20

FEB|20

San Diego’s Premier Digital Black Lifestyle Magazine

Discovering Who You Are in This New Decade

APPEALS COURT: California Must Unseal Secret Files That Hide Police Misconduct

TARGET

san diego history center presents:

keepers of the culture

Register to

VOTE

+ BLACK BEYOND MEASURE

LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It’s BLACK HISTORY MONTH! As a culture we have so much rich history underneath our belts. So much to celebrate that is us. While we're celebrating and reflecting on how far we've come, let's not forget about the all the lives lost so that we could have the freedoms afforded us today - like the freedom to vote. In San Diego, our Primary is scheduled for March 3rd. Make sure you're registered and that you understand the restrictions and allowances for voting.

Don't think for one second your vote doesn't matter.

Don't be deterred by the hindrances that arise. Commit to taking someone to the polls. Read up on those running for office. Ask questions and show up.

MAKE SURE YOU'RE REGISTERED AND USE YOUR VOTE! Lastly, it's CENSUS TIME! Get counted. Your number in the population impacts dollars allotted to your communities. Our communities.

Don't hide your vote or your presence. Show up for those who can't do it anymore.

Visit www.sdvote.com TODAY!!

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TWYLA GREEN LEAD HAIR STYLIST

DERRICK SHYTEL COVER PHOTOGRAPHY kotton candico LEAD STYLIST

TAYLOR SABREE LEAD MUA

Publisher Rebecca & Company

Editor-in-Chief

Chida Rebecca

Black & Magazine

Contributing Writers Marshaun Olaniyan Nikki Njeri Klugh Terri Schlichenmeyer Jen Coburn

www.blackandmagazine.com

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publisher@blackandmagazine.com

@blackandmagazine

psalm 68:11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.

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THE PARC BISTRO & BRASSERIE Up for some delicious French Cuisine? Parc Bistro & Brasserie is your spot.

CONTENTS 09

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The San Diego History Center is looking to add their historical archives. Could you be the one to provide some missing links?

DISCOVERING WHO YOU ARE IN THIS NEW DECADE

13 TARGET IS ON POINT FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

What would make this new year all the more special? Wouldn’t it be great to discover yourself. I mean the true you. The one without the limiting beliefs about yourself. Wouldn’t it be awesome to share who you really are with the world and especially your partner or even your future partner? There is no time like now to get you all the way together in every area of your life. Why not start now?

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Across the country, Target stores can be found with tastefully created displays celebrating the beauty of Black History

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Airbnb Airbnb has partnered with New York Times bestselling author, Luvvie Ajayi Jones, to look back at her travels in 2019 and recommend homes where she would stay if she could have a redo.

Luvvie, who traveled for more than 25 speaking engagements and partnership commitments in 2019, is currently working on her second book (all of her travel didn’t interfere with her completing her book proposal!). She’ll still be traveling in 2020; however a major focus will be on completing the draft of her manuscript for her book which will be released in the first three months of 2021.

Below, Luvvie shares several listings on Airbnb that she would be comfortable in when traveling outside of her home in Chicago.

Nikki Klugh Designs ventures us into the world of Bathroom Tiles - shedding light on all things tile for your next bathroom reno!

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You wanted it. And you wanted it very much.

But, ah, well, you didn’t get it.

You worked and you begged and maybe you even saved but you didn’t get what it was that you wanted. You were sad, but you got over it. You’ll try again, work harder, save more and, as in “The Undefeated” by Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson, one day, you’ll reach your goal.

This book is just for you. But it’s something you have to share because it’s “for the unforgettable,” too. It’s for those people who opened the doors to all kinds of new opportunities for everyone, but they never became famous for it.

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SOCIAL

BLACK &

Our last fav is the Fresh Oyster dish.

These little babies are cooked with house mignonette and cocktail sauce.

All these items are considered “Small Plate� items and are great together which is what we did. We just ordered them all at once!

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The Parc

Bistro & Brasserie Who doesn’t love great French cuisine? Well we do at Black & Magazine. In fact, one of our favorite local spots is The Parc Bistro & Brasserie located at 2760 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103.

Whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner, there is absolutely something tasty on the menu for everyone. One of our picks is the Brussel Sprouts plate in which the delectable veggies are covered in delicious crispy pancetta, balsamic and Parmesan. It has a sweet yet tangy impact on the palate and goes great with a red wine.

Our next favorite is Escargots which is cooked with garlic, butter, herbs and Pernod.

What is Escargots?

It is simply a delicacy consisting of cooked edible land snails.

Honestly - if you’ve never tried them, be sure to eat them when they’re drenched in the savory garlic butter and herbs. The bread served on the side makes for a nice sponge when soaking up what’s left in the bowl.

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BLACK & SOCIAL

Co-founder of Black Ensemble Theatre part of world premiere taking aim at controversial issue

WALTER MURRAY

S TA 6

BY JEN COBURN | CONTRIBUTING WRITER San Diego actor, Walter Murray, is no stranger to the stage. The co-founder of the Black Ensemble Theatre has performed in New York, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

Now he has joined the cast of The Roustabouts Theatre Company as it launches a new season with a biting comedy that takes aim at gun violence. A brilliant satire, gUnTopia will leave audiences with a great deal to talk about long after the show ends.

Playwright Will Cooper’s world premiere, gUnTOPIA introduces audiences to a Leave It to Beaver-style America where gun ownership is universal and shooting deaths are no more bothersome than a parking ticket. A child is shot and no one seems to care all that much because shooting death have become normalized.

Murray plays the sharp-tongued police detective, Ed Rheingold, who is dispatched to the scene of the fatal shooting. It’s a role he was born to play -- his father served as a law enforcement officer for 30 years. gUnTOPIA aims to spark discussion about the important issue of gun violence in America.

According to the Small Arms Survey there are currently more civilian-held guns that there are people in the United States, with the second-highest developed nation having fewer than half that rate of guns per capita.

Our country has 46% of the world’s civilianheld guns. As a result. America far and away leads other developed nations in gun-related homicides.

Gun violence impacts the African American community at a disproportionately high rate.

A 2017 study in the journal Pediatrics found that being black increases a child’s likelihood of dying from gun violence tenfold. In the same year, the Centers for Disease Control reported that the homicide rate for black Americans in all 50 states is, on average, eight times higher than their white counterparts.

Part of the problem, Murray, says is that it’s just too easy for people to get their hands on guns. “Felons shouldn’t have guns, people with a mental illness shouldn’t have a gun, and I’m not for every citizen having access to an automatic weapon,” he says. “That’s not necessary.”

Murray says he grew up around guns and safety was always stressed. “I do believe in the right to bear arms,” he says. “But guns should be in the hands of sensible people who are responsible.”

TAKES CENTER

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Roustabouts founding member, Phil Johnson, says the gUnTOPIA is such a “challenging and provocative experience” that the company had decided to host a series of talkbacks or panel discussions with the artists and with experts (academicians, politicians, activists, and community leaders) on the societal impact of gun violence in America.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL BLACKAUTHORITYGRC@GMAIL.COM 8

SCANNING

KEEPERS OF THE CULTURE | BRING YOUR OWN STORY

The 3rd Annual Keepers of the Culture is a celebration of Black Heritage and the individuals who have dedicated themselves to making sure African American culture continues to have a meaningful presence in San Diego. The San Diego African American Museum of Fine Art (SDAAMFA) in collaboration with the San Diego History Center are hosting the reception which will give San Diego an opportunity to say “thank you” to the three honorees.

The reception will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 5:30- 8:00 PM at the San Diego History Center, 1649 El Prado #3, San Diego CA 92101. It is free to all.

The distinguished honorees include: Common Ground Theatre- for implementing the vision the late Rufus Dewitt and Dr. Robert Matthews to start a theater in 1963, has allowed San Diego to experience the stories and voices of the Black community for over 50 years. The importance of their efforts to produce works by and about people of African descent cannot be underscored.

Ms. Starla Lewis– for her work in higher education, and various programs and initiatives developed with an appreciation for Black culture. Her multi-generational productions with her daughters continues to offer a unique way to educate people from all walks of life about the brilliance of African Americans culture.

Dr. & Mrs. Robert L. Matthews– for establishment of the Common Ground Theatre with the late Rufus Dewitt, the Martin L. King Parade and Pageant, leadership and financial support of organizations such as the Jackie Robinson YMCA Board, RADY Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, Common Ground Theatre, Jack and Jill, Tema Ghana Sister City, and the Elementary Institute of Science. San Diego has benefited greatly because of their unwavering commitment to the cultural life of our city.

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The San Diego History Center is looking for your help to fill in historical gaps and add items into our collections from San Diego’s African American community.

As part of the Keepers of the Culture awards, the San Diego History Center will be scanning and digitizing documents and photos, that illustrate the San Diego region’s African American experience. By collecting these items, we can portray a clearer timeline of African American history in San Diego.

At the event, donors will fill out a form describing what the item is, who is in the photo, and give the San Diego History Center, permission to use the digital image. After gathering the information, we will scan the document and photos and then return them to the owner onsite. The digital scan becomes a permanent part of the San Diego History Center

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collections and may be used in future exhibitions.

Items will be scanned on-site and returned to the owner. Maximum photo size is 8.5x11. This activity will begin at 4:30 PM in the Thornton Theater located in the San Diego History Center’s Thornton theater.

(Limit five items per person.)

The public’s historical documents and photos could be used in the San Diego History Center’s upcoming Nathan Harrison and Celebrating the African American History exhibits in Spring 2020. Nathan Harrison was the first homesteader in the County in the 1800s. The exhibit is a culmination of a 15-year Excavation Project of Nathan Harrison’s property by San Diego State University Professor of Anthropology, Seth Mallios. Findings from the dig will be on display at the San Diego History Center’s Nathan Harrison exhibit.

THE PLAN

a conversation with filmmaker Geronica Lee Moffett On Saturday, February 1st, Geronica Lee Moffett headlined as a producer, screenwriter and director at the 18th Annual San Diego Black Film Festival. Her much anticipated short film “The Plan” sought to bring awareness to audiences on the trauma of pregnancy and choice when a woman is embattled in a less than desirous situation. Previewed by a full house at the Sugar Factory’s Theatre Box, Moffett’s short film was captivating and informative. A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Moffett is a Navy veteran and a graduate of San Diego State University where she obtained a degree in Computer Science. Sometime after graduation, her creativity went from that of crafting programs to constructing scripts.

This desire to create and entertain led her into a career working behind the scenes on acclaimed television shows such as Fox’s Pitch, This Is Us and Castle. At the festival Black & Magazine was able to catch up with Geronica and learn more about her passion to entertain and the film.

B & M: How did you get your start in the industry?

Quite an interesting story to say the least.

My start in the industry came by way of the military. I was a mixture of a girly girl and a tomboy growing up. I loved being in the JROTC in high school so much that I joined the military right after graduation. While in the military I developed a love for modeling so from there I modeled, then started writing music, became a singer, then actor but

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woman’s control can change her life tremendously. Although this film is fictional, the content can very well be relatable to a lot of women.

B & M : What do you want movie-goers to experience while watching your film?

developed a love for behind the scenes and storytelling. So filmmaking seems to be my ultimate destiny in the entertainment business.

B & M: Describe the moment when you decided you wanted to do this movie?

I pay attention to politics, well as much as I can handle. So, when the narrative of making decisions for a woman and her body started it was apparent that those trying to make those decisions didn't understand all of the circumstances that causes a woman to have to make such a difficult decision in regards to abortion. So, I decided to write a short story that describes one of the many situations that could possibly happen.

B & M: What inspired you to tell this story?

I was inspired to tell this story due to experiencing extreme ups and downs in relationships and the possible outcomes they may have. Grouping that with today’s society of women struggling to be heard on issues that affect their very future came the story of [the character] Jamie. As a woman, we are natural nurturers and we go looking for someone to grow with, whom we can support their dreams. Just someone to love. But sometimes things beyond a 12

I want movie-goers to take away from the film that making decisions for others may not be in that person's best interest and not all situations are alike.

B & M: What was your biggest challenge in creating the film?

My biggest challenge in creating this film was time. Due to it being a student film I had deadlines to meet. I only had two days to shoot this film with four different locations. So, the stress level was pretty high.

B & M: What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow their dreams?

The first thing I tell someone following their dreams is to never give up. We don't know where the finish line can be, a day away or years away. Also read up on things you don't know about in the field you are dreaming of. All of the answers are a click away. So, research research research.

BLACK &

LIVING DISCOVERING WHO YOU ARE IN THIS NEW DECADE

BY MARSAHUN OLANIYAN LIFE & RELATIONSHIP STRATEGIST CONTRIBUTING WRITER It’s a new year! Even more special than that it’s a new decade.

Happy New Year and New Decade!

partner? There is no time like now to get you all the way together in every area of your life. Why not start now?

What would make this new year all the more special? Wouldn’t it be great to discover yourself.

I mean the true you. The one without the limiting beliefs about yourself. Wouldn’t it be awesome to share who you really are with the world and especially your partner or even your future

You see I used to struggle with knowing myself years ago. I would go along with what everyone wanted me to do. I would rarely speak up for myself when I was being disrespected. I didn’t realize I had a voice and I should use it.

Yes, this was the younger uninformed me. Because I didn’t

“Yes this was the younger uninformed me...”

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BLACK & LIVING

know who I was, I would go along with a potential boyfriend’s program; having no guidance, just going with the flow in the hopes that he would choose me as his girl.

I didn’t know I could or even should take the time to choose him back. I mean I had no clue that I needed to qualify men to have me on their arm. I was just happy for any attention at all. I didn’t think I was ugly or anything, I just never received the proper training from my parents when it came to choosing a man and especially the right man for me.

After many years of trying to figure things out, including within my first marriage and countless dating experiences that would go nowhere after that marriage, I decided to do some hard digging into me. Yes, me, myself and I. I wanted to understand who I really was outside of being my mom’s daughter, a sister and a friend. Who was I? On my own.

What were my thoughts? What did I like?

What did I dislike? How was I currently showing up to the world and in my dating life? How did I want to show up to the 14

world and with the potential men I dated?

After my first marriage dissolved I went on that roller coaster, for 14 years, jumping from one dating situation to the next with no girlfriend title in sight, let alone an engagement or wedding, I decided enough was enough. I took a hiatus from dating to discover who I was. This was the best decision I’ve made almost 6 years ago.

I want you to have the same feeling of making the best decision for yourself so you do not stay stuck in the dating or even relationship cycle that goes nowhere. You see most people think that getting the guy or girl is the hard part but really this is just the beginning. No one tells you how to stay in your relationship nor how to keep it as healthy as possible. Keeping your relationship healthy and thriving starts before you enter the relationship. It starts with you!

It starts with you taking a deep dive into knowing who you are, what you want and what you desire from yourself first

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IT STARTS WITH YOU TAKING A DEEP DIVE INTO KNOWING WHO YOU ARE, WHAT YOU WANT AND WHAT YOU DESIRE FROM YOURSELF FIRST... and then choosing a qualified partner to come together in order to create a healthy relationship.

So how do you discover who you are? I’m glad you asked and I have seven tips for you to consider and to incorporate into your life.

1. Distinguish your thoughts from the thoughts of others.

Do you wait to make decisions after you have talked to several people and got their opinions? Are you constantly nervous that the decisions you make will be the wrong ones? Do you have uneasy feelings about making decisions overall? You probably haven’t figured out your voice yet and discovered that you can make great choices and decisions on your own.

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Take a step back and own your decisions even if things do not go your way. Understand that this is quite normal. No one makes all the right choices. You are no different. The more you make a conscious choice to decide without needing to seek the opinions of others, the stronger you get with distinguishing your thoughts from the thoughts of those that are ingrained within you.

2. Rely on yourself more often.

Just like distinguishing your voice from others so you can make your own decisions you must rely on yourself more. You must begin to trust yourself, your thoughts, your decisions, your dreams, your choice of partner, your choice of career and even your choice to start your own business. Do not go along with what everyone is doing if this does not sit well with you. If you are yearning for more then start doing something towards what makes you happy each day. Do not concern yourself with how big or small the task is. The purpose is for you to start relying on what it is that suits you before needing to hear from another person before you start to take action.

3. Access your relationships.

How many of your relationships are healthy?

Does each person lift you up or bring you down? Are you scared to walk away from him or her because they have been your friend for many years or even a family member? Do you feel as though you owe this person or people your loyalty? Have they given you their loyalty?

When they are around do you find yourself more joyous or sad, angry, frustrated and/or hurt? If most of the people around you bring you more negative feelings than happy feelings, it is time to start clearing them out of your life.

It is time to start to find new loyal friends who think like you and have mutual respect for other people and their opinions.

4. Discover what your values are or what’s important to you.

5. Find new ways to bring meaning to your life by being intentional about your choices.

So you often go through each day without a plan? Are you constantly working on someone else’s dream and too scared to do something about yours? Are you dating just to find a man or a woman so you do not have to feel lonely? Start being intentional in all the things you do. Plan out each day the night before so you can know what your day looks like tomorrow. This will help you feel like you’ve succeeded and won the day instead of floundering about. If you have dreams to leave your 9 to 5, then think about what you’d like to do in life and start to change your life’s direction one day at a time. When it comes to dating, slow things down. Qualify the guy or girl before hastily jumping into a relationship and/or a marriage. Have you seen this person mad?

How do they react? Have you talked about you two will live out your future? Has at least 12 calendar months past before saying I do. This will give you a good view of who this person is. This will give you a chance to see them in every season. You two will have a deeper bond as long as you two continue to date and get to know one another. It’ll also help you see the real person and not the guy or girl who showed up in the beginning.

Finally it’ll give you a chance to access if you like being around this person for a long period of time.

6. Don’t believe your negative thoughts.

Negative thoughts. We all have them. They are not going to disappear. However, you can let the thoughts come and not hold onto them. Do. Or feed into them or dwell on them. Just let these negative thoughts pass by. People get into deep negative feelings when they allow these negative thoughts take over their way of thinking. Know that

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your mind wants to keep you safe from all harm. Also know that you must push past these thoughts because they are actually fears that are keeping you stuck in the same place never to venture out.

7. Immerse yourself in solitude.

Why solitude? Solitude will help you here your own thoughts. Solitude will open you up to new ideas. Solitude will help you understand things you never understood.

Solitude is that secret weapon so you can hear and act on your intuition. Solitude gives you the opportunity to start to believe in yourself. When you slow down and think you give yourself the power to heal and to see what part you played in things.

Thinking is one of the hardest things to do because most people don’t like to or are scared to deal with what they may hear.

We’re so busy in the technological world trying to be connected that we are losing the connection with oneself and those in our close proximity. This is one of the most powerful ways to discover yourself. Find 10-15 minutes each day even if the time is broken up into smaller increments to get by yourself so you can think and grow.

Taking the time to discover who you are will save you from many, many mistakes and feelings of shame and guilt. Discovering who you are and who you want to be in life and in love is a journey. It’s one that is well worth it to do. You will see so many benefits in slowing down your life and your mind so you can clearly see who you desire to be in the future. Take the time to discover yourself. You’ll be happy you did.

Need help with discovering yourself before, during or after a failed relationship? Sick and tired of your relationships not working out or moving forward? Let’s talk! Send me a message at marshaun@marshaunolaniyan. com.

BLACK BEYOND MEASURE: HOW BLACK HISTORY MONTH COMES

TO LIFE AT TARGET

COURTESY OF TARGET

TARGET

Throughout the month, Target is also shining a spotlight on products from black-owned businesses that are carried in our stores yearround. One-third of the Black History Month products are from black-owned businesses, including Lip Bar and Alikay Naturals, and more than half are exclusive to Target. This year’s Black History Month marketing campaign, Black Beyond Measure, also features black entrepreneurs and Target team members. The campaign name was designed to amplify success stories and celebrate blackness, an uplifting sentiment to empower future generations.

Target’s African American Business Council, which includes more than 1,000 team members, was the driving force behind creating the assortment five years ago and continues to advise our teams on the collection. The team spent months creating meaningful events at our Minneapolis headquarters to help educate and engage team members, as well as celebrate our vendors.

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Dozens of members of the Target team have had a hand in bringing this year’s collection, campaign and celebrations to life. Here are three of our team members on what the month, and Target’s efforts, means to them:

MELANIE GATEWOOD, DIRECTOR OF MULTICULTURAL MERCHANDISE, MINNEAPOLIS On putting together this year’s assortment: “The process started by looking at the items that truly resonated with our guests in last year’s assortment – both on social media as well as from a sales perspective. The items that were most impactful last year were the ones that highlighted individuals with lasting legacies – this is where the theme, Black Beyond Measure, came from.

The entire team of more than 20 team members came together to build an assortment that represented as many definitions of success as possible – including stories from entrepreneurs, artists, activists, poets, chefs and more.”

“It’s true – I am a part of Black history every day.”

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Melanie’s favorite finds: “Personally, I love Mambo Sauce.

Growing up in Baltimore, I would visit my sister in D.C. often, and Mambo Sauce is one of those nostalgic items that reminds me of those visits. Guests continue to love the names T-shirts.

The Rosa Parks and Katherine Johnson dolls are hits too.”

On the month’s meaning: “Black History Month is two things to me. First, it is a moment to take pride in the amazing accomplishments and perseverance of the Black community – especially those untold stories. Second, it is a moment to reflect on my role in furthering the legacy and impact of Black culture. As it pertains to this assortment, that came through in the blending of items that pay homage to those who came before us with items that allow us to take ownership of driving Black history. A perfect example of this is the ‘I Am Black History’ t-shirt. It’s true – I am a part of Black history every day.”

On putting the assortment front-and-center: “When guests come up the escalators into my store, the Black History Month assortment is directly in front of them. I love how it’s one of the first things they see from the entrance. We’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback from guests, including how easy it is to find products from the assortment, the cool in-store marketing that features black entrepreneurs and the various options of clothing for the whole family.”

ERICA ANDERSON, STORE DIRECTOR, ATLANTA

“BLACK HISTORY MONTH IS A CELEBRATION TO ME. IT’S A MONTH OF ACKNOWLEDGING AND CELEBRATING OUR ACHIEVEMENTS.” 20

Guest love: “Our guests’ excitement for this collection is priceless! Recently, a mother came in to shop the collection with her two daughters and they were looking at the ‘Inventors’ tee. The daughters were going back and forth naming black inventors and guessing what he or she invented. I found myself joining in with them and having a great time, in awe of their knowledge.”

On the month’s meaning: “Black History Month is a celebration to me. It’s a month of acknowledging and celebrating our achievements. I personally adore Target’s assortment and our work with black business owners. Each year, the assortment gets bigger and better and our guests are loving it!”

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artnering with vendors: I was part of the team that brought Roundel— Target’s media company—into our Black History Month work. From a marketing perspective, I’m most proud of how we partnered with our vendors this year. Here on Roundel, we work closely with a number of amazing vendors, and we invited them to celebrate Black History Month together with us. It makes total sense: These brands have really amazing stories to tell too.

success stories, and I’m here because of them. I am Black History, and I’m proud of that.”

On the month’s meaning: “To me, Black History Month is about celebrating the legacy of those who have come before you. I think about my mom and dad, and the courage it took to be a mixed race couple less than 20 years after that became legal in the US. I think about my grandpa, a published author and educator who served in Korea and went on to get his PhD. I think about my grandma, who raised nine children A special shirt: “The ‘I am Black History’ shirt and had an advanced degree herself. I think from the assortment has real significance about the obstacles they overcame, and to me. Being biracial, I struggled for a long the values they passed on to me. I think of time with my identity. I let other people how I’m working to make things better for tell me that I wasn’t ‘black enough’, and I my two little girls. I’m proud to be a part of believed them. It took me all too long to realize that you can’t let those people define this long legacy. That’s why I love being able to contribute to this assortment, because it who you are. For me, that shirt represents matters that kids can see representation of the decision I’ve made to embrace all of themselves when they walk into our stores.” who I am. I come from a long line of black

KELLEN AXEN, SENIOR MANAGER OF REPORTING AND INSIGHTS, MINNEAPOLIS

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10 AIRBNBS

LUVVIE AJAYI JONES IS

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LOVING, NOT JUDGING

COURTESY OF AIRBNB

Airbnb has partnered with New York Times bestselling author, Luvvie Ajayi Jones, to look back at her travels in 2019 and recommend homes where she would stay if she could have a redo.

Luvvie, who traveled for more than 25 speaking engagements and partnership commitments in 2019, is currently working on her second book (all of her travel didn’t interfere with her completing her book proposal!). She’ll still be traveling in 2020; however a major focus will be on completing the draft of her manuscript for her book which will be released in the first three months of 2021. Below, Luvvie shares several listings on Airbnb that she would be comfortable in when traveling outside of her home in Chicago.

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SAN FRANCISCO: PRIVATE, REMODELED HOME CLOSE TO GOLDEN GATE PARK

I love staying in places with lots of natural light. We all know California has great weather 24/7, but in San Francisco, the weather can vary, and sometimes, you just want to cozy up indoors because that Bay Area breeze can get really cold! This cozy studio has everything that I look for when I travel, including a kitchen and work desk. From this Airbnb, I can walk to all the nearby coffee shops and restaurants, so it’s a place I’m bookmarking for my next visit out west!

LOS ANGELES: ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE WITH ROOF DECK In September, I hosted the 13th Annual ADCOLOR Awards in Los Angeles.

I’m in Los Angeles a lot for work but I rarely get to the beach. With a few more days, I’d like to explore a bit more. This home is just the kind of place that helps get my creative juices going. It’s close to the beach and not too far from one of the Nigerian restaurants that I love. This place is out of a movie.

I could definitely spend some time here.

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ATLANTA: RADIANT BOHO BUNGALOW IN HISTORIC WEST END

I can’t help but love a city with a Black female Mayor! In April, I spoke in Atlanta but I was literally in and out because I had a live Jesus and Jollof show at the Apollo in New York later that night. I didn’t even have a chance to see any of my friends. This cute bungalow would be a great place for me to hang out. The hosts, Brandi and Stephen, have designed a cozy and clean place that definitely seems Auntie Robe-worthy.

DETROIT: CHARMING LITTLE PARIS FLAT IN HEART OF DETROIT In May, I had two speaking engagements in Detroit, back to back. You know I’m all about the bathroom prep ritual and this bathroom is worthy of my Afrobeats playlist. The two-sink bathroom is clutch if you are traveling with someone. If I had a do-over for my Detroit trip this year, this is definitely a place I’d stay.

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ST. LOUIS: COZY, OLD WORLD CHARM APARTMENT IN BENTON PARK!!!

I was in St. Louis for less than 24 hours. With a couple of extra days, this historic home with its spacious living room and gorgeous bathtub could be my home base as I explore the sites and maybe even venture to Kansas City.

HOUSTON: CITY LIVING CRIB I’ve got family in Houston but I still like having my own spot sometimes since the city is so spread out.

This beautiful Houston home is perfect for getting together with friends and family in the area. It’s got a large kitchen area and enough living space to accommodate everyone. The next time I’m in Houston, I’m staying at Terry’s place!

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CINCINNATI: MODERN LUXURY, HISTORIC SETTING AT DUNCANSON

In March, I spoke in Cincinnati at Procter & Gamble. This was another less than 24 hour trip. With more time, I’d love to take advantage of this backyard! And the fact that the house is so affordable ($62 a night on some dates) makes it even better. I really do love the Midwest for those righteous prices.

NEW ORLEANS: BASK IN THE TRANQUIL COURTYARD OF BYWATER GUEST HOUSE I’m usually in New Orleans every July speaking at the Essence Music Festival. Because of it, my trips there are action packed and on the go, so New Orleans is not a place I associate with “rest.” Well, I did end up there for a family vacation once and we had a blast. This colorful house feels right for a city that has so much soul and energy.

Plus, it puts me close enough to the French Quarter. Also, the pictures I could take here with this house as the backdrop?

Epic.

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I had an engagement in Charlotte a few weeks after my wedding, and immediately following engagements in St. Louis and Atlanta so to say the trip was a blur in an understatement! This studio has everything I’d need for a couple of days stay. That hammock is calling my name! I’ve heard it’s a great place to visit and it’s a short distance to other cities like Savannah and Charleston.

CHARLOTTE: DUPLEX ON QUIET STREET IN HEART OF ART DISTRICT

Tune into Luvvie’s special 2020 travel bonus episode on her “Rants & Randomness” podcast on January 21 where she’ll look back at her travels in 2019, talk about her upcoming plans and travel destinations in 2020, and share travel tips.

NASHVILLE: COZY EAST NASHVILLE

COTTAGE WITH RELAXED SOUTHERN STYLE

I get my best writing inspiration when I’m able to focus on myself and my thoughts. With such a busy schedule, it’s hard to set aside time to write, so I have to be very disciplined, which is what I found when writing I’M JUDGING YOU: The Do-Better Manual. As I get ready to write my second book, I’m looking to retreat to places like this home, free of distraction.

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HOW TO SELECT THE PERFECT BATHROOM TILES

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BY NIKKI NJERI KLUGH, ALLIED ASID, CIEC NIKKI KLUGH DESIGN GROUP, INC. | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Daydreaming of a new master bathroom?

Dreamy, luxurious bathrooms are one of our favorite spaces to design!

They are also the majority of our “design rescue” calls. Ideally, you want to bring on a professional interior designer from the moment you decide to renovate.

However, we know there are some homeowners that have experience with construction or are avid DIYers. Often times they want to tackle this project alone; we understand that, too!

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So HOW do you properly remodel a bathroom? There are so many tips and recommendations that we would like to share with you. First, we’ll start with selecting tile as this is the primary material in bathrooms and will absolutely set the tone for the entire room. To help ensure you know exactly how to select the perfect tile, we are sharing the six steps that our design team follows.

1. Determine the Design Style

Before you start shopping for materials you need to know what you are shopping for and the design style that you want to achieve. How do you want the bathroom to look and feel? Consider that your master bathroom is an extension of your bedroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to create a cohesive and beautiful space, one that feels like a luxury hotel suite.

ACHIEVE THIS LOOK! In the case of our NKDG Magazine cover photo and the one above, the homeowner wanted to have a Parisian styled master bedroom suite. I remember the excitement I felt when she shared that with me

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S E

NKDG FAIRBANKS RANCH PROJECT

because Parisian style is one of my

all time favorite cities to travel to and I’ve fallen in love with this design style!

A luxurious bathroom in Parisian style will absolutely feature a freestanding tub as shown above. An actual vintage claw-foot tub would be spectacular if you can procure one, but you can also find reproduction tubs. The claw feet lend instant charm to any bathroom.

Pair it with a chic, small side table and you not only add style, but also functionality.

Vintage furniture like the armoire shown in a crackled finish and chicken wire door fronts gives a nod to the old world quality of craftsmanship. And an oil-rubbed bronze crystal chandelier above the tub (but not centered to allow for clearance for you as you get in and out) and in the center of the room are what Parisian styled dreams are made of.

Imagine the times you’ll spend luxuriating in your claw-foot tub under a dimmed chandelier and cup of tea!

2. Identify Inspiration Photos Now that you have an idea of where you would like to go, search for inspirational photos. The internet is an amazing place specifically for those looking for design and remodeling inspiration. Check out sites like Pinterest and Instagram to kick your thoughts and ideas into action. A tip that will help you during your search is to include the keywords that you would normally think of when you think about the style, color 31

and room that you are designing AND to add the words “interior design” to your search. Those two words will make a world of difference in the images and inspiration that pops up for you!!

3. Identify Options for Feature Tile Now you’re ready to shop!! Once you have determined the look, feel and have your inspiration photos, it’s time to get out there and shop!! No need to purchase just yet, simply walk through your local decor and tile stores to search for some more specific inspiration. Start by looking at tile and countertop options since these typically cover a large portion of the bathroom. Check out your favorite tile samples and take them home to see which will capture your imagination and work best in your space.

4. Sleep On It, Then Decide

NKDG CARMEL VALLEY PROJECT

This is where you take the materials home and live with them for a few days. See which one speaks to you and what you can see yourself loving for many years to come. Think of walking into your beautifully remodeled bathroom, what do you see? Is it the shower wall, a full wall or the mirror with a backsplash? Consider this when deciding which of the samples you selected is the perfect feature tile.

5. Select Supporting Players (OR Is it a symphony?)

We almost always design bathrooms that feature a tile or stone that will be the star of the show!! This approach to design is like a jazz musical piece. The saxophone to be exact. The saxophone is the star and all others are supporting roles.

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So if you’ve found a material worthy of being the feature like this glass tile that we used in this NKDG Carmel Valley Project, then start with this piece and use it to dictate all of the additional selections you will need to make. (Read to the end for the full list of selections you’ll need to make) HOWEVER, if your design style dictates that the materials are part of a symphony, like Parisian inspired bathroom on the cover, then the material selections you will make are going to be a little more tricky. I know, it seems counter-intuitive, but when you have a monochromatic color palette, you will want to be very careful to vary sizes and patterns in a way that brings interest, harmony, and rhythm to the space.

If that’s the case, one easy way to make sure you have enough interest is to be sure to use a small, medium, and large format tile. We used 11 different tiles in that bathroom, many of the same material, but varying sizes and trim pieces.

6. Double Check List of Materials Keep in mind you want the sizes to vary, color undertones should complement one another.

Is the tile or countertop dramatic? Think of the space like a movie, the inspiration is the main character and the others are the supporting cast. Is the inspiration more lowkey? Approach the space as a symphony, everything should build on one another. You can create rhythm with scale, texture, and color!

MATERIAL LIST 1. Countertop 2. Backsplash 3.

Main floor tile 4.

Shower floor tile 5.

Shower wall tile 6.

Accent tile 7.

Trim tile for an accent area 8.

Shower curb 9.

Edging detail/tile for each area

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NIKKI NJERI KLUGH

This article covers only the tile selection, but there are many steps to designing the perfect master bedroom and we will be sharing about those in future articles.

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram.

Until next time! nikki@nikkiklughdesign.com www.nikkiklughdesign.com

RECAP 1.

Determine the design style 2.

Identify inspiration photos 3.

Identify options for feature tile 4.

Sleep on it, then decide 5.

Select supporting players 6.

Double check list of materials

HAUTE UTE HAUTE HAUTE HAUTE AUTE BLACK &

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Clean

SO FRESH AND SO

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PHOTOGRAPHY: DERRICK SHYTEL 36

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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR FRIENDS AT

3985 30TH ST SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92104 (619) 269-3973 38

TRESSES IN NEED OF TLC? YOU’RE GONNA LOVE THIS

NEW TARGET-EXCLUSIVE HAIRCARE BRAND FROM TARAJI P. HENSON

COURTESY OF TARGET Hair feeling ho-hum? Overstyled? Perhaps your locks need a little TLC? Actress Taraji P. Henson has just the thing for tired tresses of all types: TpH by TARAJI, her brand-new haircare line that’s available exclusively at Target. Landing on shelves and dot-com with 18 products ranging from hair milk to scalp scrubs, TpH by TARAJI is affordably priced and made for everyone.

And some might say this launch is years in the making. Taraji, who was 39

involved in every aspect of the development of TpH

by TARAJI, is no stranger to whipping up solutions for her own hair needs, often developing balms and scrubs in her own kitchen.

“Early on in my career I was doing my own hair for the red carpet—I needed to have an interest in product formulas since I was always changing my looks. I’ve done them all. I learned quickly what formulas were my favorites, and the failures!” she says.

We connected with Taraji to

get the deets on her new line, how she uses it and what else she’s picking up on her Target Runs. Let’s take a look!

To kick us off, we want to know what inspired you to create your own haircare brand—and we’re really curious to hear about these scalp treatments! It feels like a newer trend, but it sounds like you’ve known about it for a while now.

I have always been into healthy hair—and knew that a healthy scalp would lead to healthier hair.

There were no haircare lines that truly focused on scalp care. I was creating my own products at home for nearly two decades. I had great results creating my scalp tonic and I knew other women would love to have those great results too, which is the root and the hero of my product line.

So, who are the products designed for? Is there a demographic you had in mind when creating the brand?

I created the products for everyone.

The line is not hair type-specific. Who doesn’t want healthy hair, or a healthy scalp? The products are universal and can be used on everything from natural hair, to chemically treated hair, men, children—there’s something within this line for everyone.

You have 18 products—and in really beautiful packaging too, we might add. What are a few of your musthaves for people exploring the line for the first time?

I love the whole line—ha!—but honestly, it’s so hard to narrow down my favorites. But I would absolutely recommend: • NEVER SALTY: A SCALP SCRUB THAT EXFOLIATES AND REJUVENATES THE SCALP. • MAKE IT RAIN: A HYDRATION CONDITIONER I USE BECAUSE MY HAIR IS COLOR TREATED. • HUSTLE & CO: A VERY RICH CO-WASH THAT DOESN’T STRIP MY HAIR. • REAL LOVE: A PROTEIN GEL MASK I USUALLY USE AFTER MY COLOR TOUCH-UPS. • MASTER CLEANSE: THIS IS MY HERO PRODUCT! I LOVE TO USE THIS AFTER NEVER SALTY. • SMOOTH ATTITUDE: THIS IS WHAT I USE FOR MY TWIST OUTS.

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Is there one thing you always do with your hair before leaving the house?

Before I leave the house, I always have a swag check in the mirror! Making sure my edges are laid with So Slick, and if I am wearing my wash and go, I make sure to apply The Guardian to refresh my curls.

Then my outfit is coordinated with my makeup and hair. Oh, and I can’t forget—I must spray my smell goods on.

What’s your go-to hairstyle and which TpH by TARAJI products do you use to create it?

Because I’m natural, my go-to hairstyle is a twist out. I usually start with scalp care first, so I use Never Salty, followed by Master Cleanse and to penetrate deeper, I wrap my hair in a hot towel. Next, I wash my hair with Honey Fresh, then I condition with Make It Rain. Finally, I use Smooth Attitude to put my hair in sections and twist. I use Tough Cookie or Glow Up on the ends of my hair to keep them healthy, and to lock-in the twist out.

What is your #1 hair tip or trick?

A clean scalp leads to healthy hair and ALWAYS wrap your hair with a silk/satin scarf or bonnet.

So you’ve got these amazing products, you want to get them out in front of more people—why was Target the perfect retail fit?

I love Target—I’ve been shopping at Target for years! And I love that Target is all about offering quality products at affordable prices. Because I have a very diverse audience, I wanted everyone to be able to afford these products and give the same amazing haircare that I would receive at home.

What’s your favorite thing to shop in the Target beauty aisles?

I love grabbing Ardell Wispier Lashes, Yes! Cucumbers Facial Wipes, Cotton Rounds Makeup Remover Pads, Burt’s Bees Pomegranate Lip Balm and Olay Regenerist Micro Exfoliating Wet Facial Cleansing Wipes. PIXI by Petra always has great collections and I love using TpH by TARAJI Glow Up on the heels of my feet during harsh winter months—like now!—to lock in moisture.

Ready to join the healthy scalp revolution? Check out more products from TpH by TARAJI with prices ranging from $8.99 to $14.99 right on Target.com.

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BLACK &

IN FOR MED

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APPEALS COURT:

BY CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

CALIFORNIA MUST UNSEAL SECRET FILES THAT HIDE POLICE MISCONDUCT

Activists, some news agencies and civil rights groups across the state are applauding a California court decision last week to reject an appeal that would have overturned Senate Bill 1421.

passed.

But after the bill became law in January 2019, the California Attorney General’s office still blocked public requests for police records. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) attorneys The landmark legislation, argued that several law enforcement unions in which former Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law in the state had appealed the law and it needed September 2018, allows more clarity before unprecedented public complying with the new access to thousands of previously sealed records disclosure rules. on police misconduct, including shootings cops The department also warned that across California have opening investigation committed. or complaint files with “sensitive and confidential information” “California is finally to the public could joining other states in endanger police officers. granting access to the They also pushed investigatory records for police records of on officer conduct that incidents that occurred the public truly has a before SB 1421 passed to right to know,” said the remain sealed. bill’s author Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) in a statement when SB 1421

Last Wednesday, though, justices of California’s

Court of Appeal for the First District in San Francisco disagreed with the DOJ arguments and upheld the law.

SB 1421 recognizes “the extraordinary authority vested in peace officers and the serious harms occasioned by misuse of that authority,” the justices wrote in their opinion. SB 1421, they added, “enshrines the value this state has long placed on government transparency and public access to information.”

Before 1421 passed, the Los Angeles Times described California as one of the “most secretive states” when it came to police records on misconduct. Even prosecutors and public defenders did not have direct access to police personnel files.

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EARLY VOTING BEGINS FOR MARCH 3 PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY

BY TRACY DEFORE, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Voters interested in casting their ballots early for the March 3 Presidential Primary Election can now do so at the County Registrar of Voters office located at 5600 Overland Ave. on the County Operations Center campus in Kearny Mesa. Early voting began Monday and will continue from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday and until the polls close on Election Day. The office will also be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 29 and Sunday, March 1 for weekend voting.

Employee tests ballot marking device at the Registrar’s office last November.

Over 1.3 million mail ballots were sent out through the U.S. Postal Service Monday, and voters could find them in their mailboxes as early as that same day.

“If you know how you want to vote, grab that mail ballot when you get it, mark it and send it back in right away,” said Registrar Michael Vu. “The sooner we get the ballot back, the sooner we can start processing it so it will be counted right when the polls close at 8 p.m. on March 3.”

You’ll also find something new in your mail ballot packet this year– an “I Voted” sticker.

Mail ballots are convenient for voters who’d rather not make a special trip to the Registrar of Voter’s office to cast their ballots or wait for the polls to open on Election Day. Registered voters can request a mail ballot until Feb. 25.

Meantime, the Registrar is still looking for poll workers, especially bilingual poll workers. For more information, call (858) 565-5800 or visit sdvote.com.

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LABOR LAWSUITS, NEW LEGISLATION ATTEMPT TO PUSH BACK ON NEW AB 5 RULES

BY CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA A growing chorus of voices across California — from affected Uber and Lyft drivers and newspaper delivery truck operators to freelance writers, photographers, musicians and other artists – are all rising up to oppose Assembly Bill 5.

The new labor law that reclassified millions of California freelancers as W-2 employees is jeopardizing their livelihoods and preventing them from supporting their families, they say.

“Assembly Bill 5 took a sledgehammer approach to an employment problem that required a scalpel, which consequently hammered many Californians who truly wish to remain their own bosses,” said Sen. Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel).

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bill, introduced by Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego, into law last September.

The legislation codifies into law a 2018 California Supreme Court ruling commonly called the “Dynamex” decision.

Supporters argue that the law closes loopholes employers relied on to underpay workers and deprive them of benefits like health insurance, minimum wage, paid parental leave, etc., that state law requires for full-time

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employees.

Last week, Bates introduced two new pieces legislation: SB 867 and SB 868. She says the bills would “help newspapers and freelance journalists continue to operate in California by exempting them from the state’s new antiindependent contracting law.”

“The Legislature can begin to fix some of AB 5’s flaws by helping California’s newspapers and journalists continue to operate normally as they have in our state. Passing my legislation will help preserve quality journalism in many communities,” the senator said.

Then, last month, the American Society of Journalists and Authors, Inc., (ASJA), a national professional organization that represents independent non-fiction authors, filed a lawsuit in federal court against the state of California to prevent AB 5 from impacting its members.

“We have no choice but to go to court to protect the rights of independent writers and freelance journalists as a whole,” said Milton C. Toby, president of ASJA. “The stakes are too high, and we cannot stand by as our members and our colleagues face ill-conceived and potentially career-ending legislation.”

In the Sacramento area, as in many other electoral districts across the state, people are organizing to oppose AB 5.

“If you hate this bill and live in Sacramento’s boundaries, please email our Assemblymember Kevin McCarty,” Sacramento resident Andrea Sparkles shared in a mass email. “I stopped by his office and spoke with his legislative director about how this bill has good intentions but is taking over 150 professions down with it, including all artistic professions, small theaters, musical groups, etc.”

“THE UNDEFEATED” BY KWAME ALEXANDER, ILLUSTRATIONS BY KADIR NELSON C.2019, VERSIFY | $17.99 / HIGHER IN CANADA | 40 PAGES

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER | CONTRIBUTING WRITER You wanted it. And you wanted it very much.

But, ah, well, you didn’t get it. You worked and you begged and maybe you even saved but you didn’t get what it was that you wanted. You were sad, but you got over it. You’ll try again, work harder, save more and, as in “The Undefeated” by Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson, one day, you’ll reach your goal.

This book is just for you. But it’s

something you have to share because it’s “for the unforgettable,” too. It’s for those people who opened the doors to all kinds of new opportunities for everyone, but they never became famous for it.

It’s for people who did whatever it took to get to America, to thrive and find a home and happiness. This book is for people who struggled, and for those who didn’t.

It’s about people who were strong and 46

were admired for that strength. It’s for those who believed in themselves but who also put their faith in a higher power. It’s for those who “tackle vision” and those who don’t hide their light behind anything, ever.

It’s for soldiers and dancers, marchers and players, boxers and parents and kids, and it’s for you. It’s for Black lives that matter and for the people who never got a chance to know that. It’s because of the “unspeakable.”

Share this book for those who won’t be stopped, who’ll keep dreaming and reaching and imagining and proving.

It’s for the athletes we know, and for the ones we don’t know about yet. It’s for performers we sing along with, and for songs not written. It’s for those who tried and tried until the last breath they had.

You’ll have to share it, but this book is for you. It’s “for us.”

“The Undefeated” is one of those things that’s really had to nail down.

It’s a quick read that may be too quick for some kids; it’s over almost before it begins because author Kwame Alexander’s words are spare and not very attention-grabbing for the very youngest of children. It doesn’t help that the picture-book-style illustrations are attractive but they aren’t particularly colorful or active.

For gradeschoolers, none of that will matter because “The Undefeated” is a poem set to picture and it’s inspirational for them, especially if they’re just learning about African American history. But there’s a possibility for those kids that the power behind the illustrations

by Kadir Nelson might be missed because the stories of the people in this book are at the end and not always with the pictures.

Adults, however, might find this book 47

AUTHOR, KWAME ALEXANDER

ILLUSTRATOR, KADIR NELSON to be a treasure. Alexander’s poem pulses with strength and the artwork, from an adult’s POV, is perfectly rendered. You may recognize the people depicted – and if not, there’s always the back of the book.

The trick, perhaps, is to carefully share this book with the child you love, explain, and let it spark conversation. Once kids understand, “The Undefeated” is a book they’ll want very much.

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“HITTING A STRAIGHT LICK WITH A CROOKED STICK”

BY ZORA NEALE HURSTON, EDITED WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY GENEVIEVE WEST, FOREWORD BY TAYARI JONES

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C.2020, AMISTAD $25.99 / $31.99 CANADA 304 PAGES

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER | CONTRIBUTING WRITER verybody has that place.

You know, that place where everyone knows you, they know what you want, and they get it for you before your coat’s half off. It’s where you can catch up on gossip and good news, where you take shelter and get sympathy. In “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick” by Zora Neale Hurston, you also get a front seat.

Born in around 1891 in Alabama, Zora Neale Hurston learned early to make her own way: she was just a teenager when her mother died, and when her father married a woman she hated, Hurston left home. After briefly working as a maid for a traveling actress, she moved to Baltimore where she graduated from high school, shaved a decade off her age, and enrolled at Howard University.

There, her first story was printed.

Unable to secure money to graduate from Howard University, Hurston moved to New York in 1924, arriving in Harlem with near-empty pockets but a head full of stories that began winning awards for her. This led to more opportunities, a return to college, a network of other writers, and a publisher for her books.

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In this book are twenty-one of Hurston’s short stories, including Harlem Renaissance works that were previously considered “lost.”

Many were written in a way that reflects stereotypical patterns of speech and pronunciation which, says Genevieve West in her introduction, was risky and controversial but Hurston knew exactly what she was doing.

While some tales are set in Harlem, Hurston’s stories here start out in Eatonville, Florida, where everyone knew everyone else. It the

Z O R A

NEALE HURSTON place where John Redding lived before he died, floating in the same waters that he dreamed might show him the world. It’s where every man gathers at Jim’s restaurant to talk trash, and where Sam met Stella, who changed him into someone who never gambled and came home on time, mostly.

Eatonville was where Spunk Banks got too brave, where Old Man Morgan could put down a curse on anyone; and where “white folks are very stupid about some things.”

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on’t be surprised if “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick” is quickly elevated to your local high school’s reading list. Yep, it’s that kind of book.

Read, and you’ll almost wish you were slumped on a wooden chair on Jim’s porch on a hot summer day. Read, because authenticity oozes from every page here and you can’t help but like the men and women in the tales. Read, as author Zora Neale Hurston’s wit shines between biting narratory descriptions and comments, like sunbeams sneaking through Jim’s raggedy roof, underscored by a mix of highbrow words and lowlife scoundrels.

You’ll also feel the heat sometimes but it’s not always from the weather.

One thing: modern readers may want to know that the “dialect” that Hurston insisted upon may take some getting used-to, but it ultimately adds to the realism that you’ll love about this book. For that, “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick” is right for any place.

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