GRACE 速
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
FASHION
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW!
WOOLWORTH SIT-IN GREENSBORO, NC
Up Close:
Mandela
Beverly Robertson Dr. Willie W. Herenton
touches Memphis
The best place for children is by their mother’s side. There’s something about having loved ones close by that’s comforting, reassuring, and just feels better. So the Baptist Hospital for Women is now offering pediatric services, with an amazing new pediatric Emergency Room underway and a growing number of pediatric specialists. It’s one more way Baptist is making sure the families in our community get better.
womens.baptistonline.org
901-227-9000
Get Better.
At the place of death for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968, the National Civil Rights Museum was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1991. In over two decades, it has become world renown as an educational and cultural institution, celebrating the triumph of the human spirit in civil and human rights. Millions have experienced the transformative power of this special place. In 2014, we will unveil an even more profound museum; one that updates history, integrates automation and interactivity and engages you in a journey of discovery.
450 Mulberry | Memphis, TN 38103 901.521.9699 | civilrightsmuseum.org
LETTER
Publisher’s
AS TOLD BY
CHRISTINA STEVISON Happy New Year from the Grace Magazine family!
Write To Us:
Email speakout@gracemagazine.com or send us a letter to P.O. Box 3180 Memphis, TN 38173
As we begin a new year, we pay tribute to the legacy of Nelson Mandela. When Mandela traveled to Memphis, I was 14 years of age. I attended the ceremony held at Greater Temple of Deliverance. I was aware of his role in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa and mindful of the fact that having him in Memphis was a monumental occasion. Upon entering the sanctuary, I vividly remember the hundreds of people there to witness the historic moment. To this day, I remember his emphasis on the importance of education during his speech. After he concluded his speech, my mother rushed my friend and me towards a small door near the stage. We were asked to sit in a private conference room and wait. Our mothers hurried out the door, and came back 5 minutes later both feverishly signaling for us to get up and follow them. We walked out of the room and I heard a security guard saying “no more photos, we have to leave now.” Two seconds later, a gentle voice said “Just one more is fine.” The security guard stepped aside and there was Mandela. There was a very, calming gentle spirit about him. It only took us a few seconds to take the photo, but I will remember that moment the rest of my life. Later in life, I was able to take a trip to Robben Island and stand in the actual jail cell where Mandela spent 18 years of his life. I was moved to tears after standing in that small block cell. There are few individuals who have an unrelenting will to make extraordinary things happen during their time here on earth, not for self-gain or accolades, but to improve the lives of others. Such strength is an extremely admirable trait and one we should individually strive to work towards daily. We celebrate the life and contributions of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. May his extraordinary life remind us all of the power within and the difference one person can make in the lives of many.
In Sisterhood,
Christina 2 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
January February
2014
41 FEATURES
71
LEST WE FORGET GRACE celebrates Black History Month
41
HOLIDAY COTILLION Memphis Chapter of Links, Inc. 25th Annual Holiday Cotillion
33
NELSON MANDELA The Man Who Toppled Apartheid
ON THE COVER
Nelson Mandela - National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award Speech; Photograph by Tyrone P. Easley JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 3
CONTENT JAN/FEB 2014 | VOL. 2 | NO.1 | GRACEMAGAZINE.COM
DEPARTMENTS
13 LIVING BENEFITS OF LANDSCAPING YOUR HOME Home Landscape — your personal style and personality.
17 TRAVEL TRENDS
CREATING AN AFFORDABLE VACATION Now is a great time to find bargains on airfare.
27
21 FITNESS
2014 GET FIT! Most of us want to be fit.
23 HEALTH
4 SIDE EFFECTS OF HEALTHY LIVING Healthy living decisions can have a positive effect on life.
27 FASHION
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW! Building A Stylish Wardrobe Around Timeless Classics.
47 FOOD
VALENTINE’S DAY Dine In or Dine Out?
48 RECIPES
VALENTINE’S DINNER FOR TWO Poussins and Passion
13
51 GRACEFUL LIVING
AN UNDERSTATED TABLE Six Simple Steps to Elegance.
53 MONEY MATTERS
ADJUSTING YOUR FINANCES WHEN YOU LOSE YOUR JOB Losing a job can mean a significant change in income.
59 BOOKS
ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO READ Parents can encourage your child to read.
4 DECEMBER JAN/FEB 2014 2013 | GRACE | GRACE
55
63 GROWING UP WITH GRACE
GRACE VISITS CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 5
Contributors
Ron FARMER Ron is the owner of Metro Services. Metro Services offers full service repairs in automotives, lawn care, electrical, and home improvements. Since opening in 2008, the business has grown tremendously and has now expanded to carpentry and mechanical services. You can find Ron here at GRACE Magazine. He will answer questions and offer advice to GRACE readers in a new column “Rap2Ron”. Please forward any questions you may have to rap2ron@ gracemagazine.com (See page 13)
Reverend Kenneth S. ROBINSON, M.D., M.DIV. Rev. Dr. Kenneth S. Robinson serves as Pastor & Chief Executive of St. Andrew AME Church. Since arriving in Memphis in 1991, Reverend Robinson has fulfilled his theme, “Ministering to Memphis – Spirit, Soul, and Body” and has developed and spearheaded the congregation’s social outreach; community food provision services; health promotions; quality childcare; superior after-school programs; pastoral counseling services; and, peer support services. The St. Andrew Enterprise includes a Community Development Corporation offering 113 family-affordable housing; a Community farmers market; and; a nationally accredited K-5 charter school. During Rev. Robinson’s tenure, St. Andrew has become a major stakeholder in South Memphis generating a $21,000,000 investment developing a healthy, sustainable community. A lifelong advocate for public health improvement, Dr. Robinson made history, serving four years as Tennessee’s first African-American Commissioner of Health with a signature focus on the obesity epidemic, heart disease and diabetes, infant mortality and adolescent pregnancy societal impacts, and the overarching racial and ethnic disparities magnified for minorities. Dr. Robinson continues to serve the public as the Shelby County Mayor Public Health Policy Advisor. He and his wife, Rev. Marilynn Robinson are parents of twin daughters -- both highly accomplished physicians. (See Amazing Grace, page 79)
6 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Marsha D. GOINS Marsha is a Real Estate Agent with Allen Tate Companies in Greensboro, NC. She is currently serving her second term as President of the Greensboro Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. who hosted the celebration of the Greensboro Four at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, Greeensboro, NC. (See Lest We Forget, page 70)
Candace MOONEYHAM Candace is our featured artist in this issue. She is a Memphis native working as an accountant. She has a passion for all things creative and love to spend her spare time painting and designing interiors. (See Back Cover)
Contributors
Latasha STONUM Latasha is our Account Executive. A college graduate of University of Memphis where she received a Bachelors of Arts in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Marketing Management. LaTasha has extensive experience in marketing, customer service, and hospitality. From Austin, Texas, LaTasha is an animal lover and has volunteered for the Memphis Humane Society for a number of years and is also a member of the University of Memphis Alumni Chapter. (See pages 23 & 53)
Melba MUSTIFUL MARTIN Melba is a Junior at Lausanne Colligate School, where she is a scholar and an athlete, playing varsity basketball, varsity soccer and tennis. At Lausanne she prides herself in academic excellence taking Honors, AP and IB (International Baccalaureate) classes. Melba is committed to serving her community and in 2013 earned the Service Award through Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for rendering over 100 hours in service to her community and was selected and attended the Crump Law School Summer Program at Howard University where she was awarded the Intellectual Property Award by Microsoft. In 2012, Melba was crowned Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Miss Fashionetta for her philanthropic efforts. Additionally in 2012, she won both the Jack and Jill of America “Best Female Athlete” Division II award and her Pod was State Finalist in the National History Day poster presentation depicting the historical relevancy and impact of Title IX.
Chris BOYD Chris Boyd is the Director of Operations for GRACE Magazine and Sisterhood Showcase. Chris is a native Memphian, raised and currently residing in the Orange Mound Community. Chris has a passion for volunteering his time with youths. Chris spends time mentoring young boys and girls in an effort to prepare them for the future. Chris served in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds a BA in Pre-Law/Criminal Justice and Business Administration. He serves on various boards throughout the city and is chair of Downtown Elementary SiteBased Decision Making Committee. Chris is an alumnus of Shelby County Citizen’s University and Shelby County Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy. Chris has 4 children enrolled in Shelby County Schools. If you see Chris in the streets, stop and share some words with him. (See pages 9, 59 & 63)
Melba aspires to become an Intellectual Property Attorney and attend Howard University. Melba is our feature Fashion Model. (See page 27)
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 7
st andrew
8 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Discovering Our Power
STEPPING INTO FAITH Perceiving Change and Transition by CHRIS BOYD
I
t is human nature to favor the familiar. When we face the prospect of change and transition, it is very easy to cultivate feelings of fear and anxiety, which only serve to negatively affect our perception and cloud our judgment. Using faith, we can shift our perspective and positively transform our perception of transition. There are several dimensions to faith. One of the most important is the deliberate effort to see things differently. When facing transition and change, it is vital to tap into your spiritual reserve and prepare to do battle with negative emotions that can hinder your progress. “Faith is the evidence of things unseen and the substance of things hoped for.”-- Hebrews 11:1 We build the evidence of the unseen, systematically working and reworking our thinking to escape negative thought patterns and create new streams of thought that favor spiritual growth through action. Establish the worthiness of your goals, meticulously judging them against God’s revelations in your life. Simply ask yourself, is the goal I am trying to reach moving me closer to or farther from my purpose in God? Your Spirit will guide you in answering this. Believe in God’s grace, which grants us the ability and strength to achieve our goals. Remind yourself you have good reason to be confident about radical change in your life. Believe in the perfection of God’s will and accept the imperfections of your own will. Faith in God’s promises assumes a new foundation for the way you think, act and perceive life. Rely on the substance of what you hope for as fuel to
push through your trials. That substance comes from your heart’s sincere desire for and commitment to your purpose in living out the will of God. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” --Ephesians 2:8-10 Recognize and accept the need for change and transition. Recognition cultivates awareness, and acceptance works in direct contrast to emotions like fear, doubt, shame and guilt. Honest, objective evaluation of your circumstances, feelings, and needs is essential to recognizing the larger purpose of change and transition and how each works to adapt you to a life of faith. Develop positive, productive goals and identify the parts of your life that need to change to achieve those goals. Ensure that you have an authentic desire to come closer to your purpose in living by making the necessary shifts and transitions. Accept them. Embrace them. At that point, enact the grace of God, the power He gives you to transcend your natural will, your natural predisposition to fear, worry and anxiety and step into your faith. A life of faith means living in a state of confidence and surety. Faith allows you to perceive things spiritually and it moves you beyond surface emotions that only serve to keep you grounded and distanced from the richness of living out your destiny. God bless you on your journey. G JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 9
GRACE ®
Founder Tina L. Birchett (1960 – 2013) Publisher & CEO Christina N. Stevison Editor-In-Chief Toni Harvey Executive Editor Lisa Lew Fashion Editor B. Henderson Art Director Detric Stanciel Director of Operations Chris Boyd
Marketing & Advertising Director Alice Poston Account Executive Latasha Stonum Contributing Writers Chris Boyd, Tyrone Chester, Ronald Farmer Marsha D. Goins, B. Henderson, Ann Leung Alice Poston, Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson LaTasha Stonum, Tay Vin Contributing Photographers Clarence M. Neal, Detric Stanciel Tyrone P. Easley
HOW TO REACH US Stevison Group, LLC 200 Jefferson Avenue Suite 1066 Memphis, TN 38103 Phone 901.579.9333 Fax 901.795.2256 www.gracemagazine.com
GRACE® Magazine is a bi-monthly publication of Stevison Group, LLC and is distributed in locations throughout the Memphis/Mid-South area. Readership: 60,000 Copyright 2014 by Stevison Group, LLC. All rights reserved. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not return unsolicited materials to sender. Photography and images obtained for editorial usage is owned by GRACE® Magazine and may not be released for commercial use such as in advertisements. Reproduction in whole or in part without the publisher’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor or publisher. The publication of any advertisement in this issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by this publication.
10 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
LETTERS TO THE
EDITOR Not sure if you recognize Anniversaries... January 4th, my parents celebrate 51 years of marriage. They both retired from Memphis City Schools with over 40 years of service. I have attached a photo of the day they were married and a current photo. Just wondering, would love to surprise them. Thanks. (See page 75.) Heather H. Memphis, TN
GRACE magazine is perhaps one of the Best magazines I have ever read. Moziah Bridges is the next Barack Obama and John Johnson — founder of Ebony magazine. He is a major example of youth leadership for all adult males who are wasting precious time on this earth. Black mothers bring us all on earth for a purpose! Grace magazine is a inexpensive vehicle for folks to discover their purpose in life! Black people have to immediately unplug and put down the Cell phone — cease with the silly video games and once again READ MAGAZINES AND BOOKS in this globally competitive world. Dennis W. Bronx, NY
Laniya and Veronica are best friends that met in Sunday school. The grandparents are also classmates in Sunday school. We had lunch at O’Charley’s at Macon and Germantown here in Memphis. The girls said they were going out to explore the world. We took a picture of the girls as they walked out of the door and my friend Candace painted the photo. Candace Mooneyham paints on the side; it is her hobby. I truly love this painting. Please share it with your readers. (See back cover) Conise D. Memphis, TN
I’m honored to say that I was a previous GRACE Magazine staff writer and was privileged to also have known Tina Birchett. I must applaud your work, at the helm of GRACE! Tina would be proud. Upon reading the first article in your December 2013, I was eager to continue reading the magazine because I admired how in-touch you remain with your audience. I wish you continued success with GRACE. If I could offer support, just let me know. Cristalynne D. Memphis, TN
I LOVED the tree decorating article. It made me want to run home and take my tree down and start over. I can’t wait til next year to follow the tips. Helen H. Memphis, TN
Food
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 11
Gary lawn
Leaf Removal • Fertilization • Weed Control Landscape Manicuring & Maintenance
GARY CHILDRESS LAWN SERVICE 901.461.3862
FREE ESTIMATES gipchildress@gmail.com
Living
BENEFITS OF LANDSCAPING YOUR HOME Your property landscape is an extension of your personal style and personality. It is the first thing you present to visitors. Landscaping design and maintenance provides others with a first impression of your home. If investing in landscaping is right for you, it is important to understand the benefits.�
by RON FARMER
Economic Benefits One of the main reasons homeowners choose to take on a landscaping project is for the economic benefits it brings. Landscaping can add up to 14% to resale value, and it can also speed up the selling process by over a month. This increase in resale value can earn a homeowner 150% back on an initial landscape investment.
The financial benefits of landscaping can also be achieved when examining a home’s energy costs. By strategically placing a tree so it shades an outdoor air conditioning unit, efficiency of the appliance can increase by 10%. Trees that create shade on the rest of your home can reduce energy consumption by up to 25%. This can result in an average energy savings of $100-$250 per year.
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 13
Living
Economic Benefits One of the main reasons homeowners choose to take on a landscaping project is for the economic benefits it brings. Landscaping can add up to 14% to resale value, and it can also speed up the selling process by over a month. This increase in resale value can earn a homeowner 150% back on an initial landscape investment. The financial benefits of landscaping can also be achieved when examining a home’s energy costs. By strategically placing a tree so it shades an outdoor air conditioning unit, efficiency of the appliance can increase by 10%. Trees that create shade on the rest of your home can reduce energy consumption by up to 25%. This can result in an average energy savings of $100-$250 per year. Environmental Benefits There are also several environmental benefits associated with landscaping. Plants can improve air quality, and one tree will remove 26 total pounds of carbon dioxide from the air each year. This is the equivalent of 11,000 car emissions. That same tree can also release enough oxygen to supply a fourperson family with their daily oxygen needs. Health Benefits Health benefits derived from landscaping have also been identified, as gardening is a great physical activity for people of all ages. An hour of pulling weeds can burn up to 300 calories, and mowing your lawn with a push mower can burn 500 calories in an hour. Studies have also shown that these benefits are especially promising for women. Women have been found to recover from surgery faster when they spend time gardening. Women over 50 who gardened a minimum of once per week have been shown to have a higher bone density than others. Social Benefits Homeowners who take advantage of landscaping can create an attractive outdoor environment for relaxing and entertaining guests. Landscaping can provide a beautiful solution for both heat and noise reduction, and it can increase community livability by creating green buffer zones. Landscaping is especially beneficial in residential areas with high densities, as it can enhance livability despite crowded quarters. Landscaping offers a variety of benefits and can quickly result in a major return on investment. By considering the social, health, economic, and environmental benefits of landscaping, you can work to create a design that meets your needs. Notwithstanding the above benefits, there is no greater benefit than the pleasure of admiring your own masterfully manicured lawn – and experiencing the pride in having the neighborhood’s most beautiful yard! G
14 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
WE KEEP YOUR
HOME/OFFICE PROTECTED FROM PESTS YEAR-ROUND Contact Us Today at 3206 S. Third St Memphis,TN 38109
901-398-7378
411A Summit St. Winona, MS 38967
662-845-4413
RECEIVE 15% OFF
YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT WHEN YOU USE THE
PROMO CODE: GRACE20 | VALID UNTIL FEBRUARY 28, 2014
WWW.NUERAPESTCONTROL.COM
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 15
INVOICE EIN:
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL DATE: July 3, 2013 INVOICE # 1001
PO Box 382808 Germantown, TN 38183 Phone 901.859.1565 Fax 901.795.2256
FOR:
BILL TO: VANDERBILT LANDSCAPING 650 Mason Malone Road Mason, TN 路
DESCRIPTION Cycle 1 (Mowing Services)
ACRES
RATE
48.00
50.00
SUBTOTAL
MLGW Property Mowing
AMOUNT $
2,400.00
$
2,400.00
TAX RATE -
SALES TAX OTHER TOTAL
$
COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT
Contact Ron Farmer
Make all checks payable to Metro Services Total due in 15 days. Overdue accounts subject to a service charge of 1% per month.
901.859.1565
16 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS!
2,400.00
Travel Trends
CREATING AN AFFORDABLE VACATION by ANN LEUNG
N
ow is a great time to find bargains on airfare. If you stay flexible, you can save enough cash to plan another trip later in the year. Simply, follow these basic tips.
Fly During Airline “Off Season” The first half of February (excluding Valentine’s Day and Super Bowl weekend) is considered dead downtime by airlines. Demand is at its lowest because business travelers are not flying as much, and families are traveling less because school is back in session. Buy at the Right Time Airlines do not begin actively “managing” prices until three or four months before departure date. Buying tickets earlier than 3 ½ months before departure means paying higher ticket prices. Among larger carriers (such as American, Delta, United and US Airways), airfare prices can rise dramatically inside the 14-day pre-departure window. Discount or low cost carriers (such as AirTran) usually increase their ticket prices 7 to 10 days pre-departure. Airlines do this to take advantage of last minute business travelers who often do not know their travel schedules until last minute and are willing to pay higher prices. So, the best time to purchase tickets is 6-12 weeks prior to departure date.
Fly on “Cheap” Days The cheapest days to travel are the least popular days to fly -- Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday. Flights on Fridays and Sunday are most popular because most people travel on these days to squeeze as much time into a vacation as possible. Airlines know this and usually charge more for flights on those days. Avoid Sites That Book Flights Finding the cheapest flights require a rigorous search involving multiple search engines. Go to a meta-search site that scans fares of multiple airlines simultaneously. One site to consider is Kayak. com. Other sites to consider are Mobissimo.com; itasoftware.com; skyscanner.net; and, Momondo.com for additional low fares. Consider Airport Websites Check the destination airport website. Typically, charter airlines are not shown in on-line searches but will appear on the destination airport website. Also, look closely at low-cost carriers, such as Spirit or AirTran. Low cost carriers are usually less than legacy airlines; however, be prepared to pay for most amenities. Compare Fares Knowing how much to pay is the first step in finding a good ticket JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 17
Travel Trends
Fly During Airline “Off Season”
price. To find a flight price history, try Kayak.com’s Fare History charts, which displays the lowest fares and the overall average prices found. Kayak.com also has a calendar of best fares found by other users within 48 hours. Search Plus or Minus Your Desired Departure Day Be flexible on travel dates to gain additional savings. Just about every airline’s website offers the feature to add or subtract a day or two before and after your ideal travel dates. Flying just one day earlier or later than the ideal date could mean saving up to $100 or more. E-Track the Fare Once an ideal flight price is determined, track airfares with services such as Hotwire.com or Yapta. com. Simply register route and dates. When the fare drops to your price range, an alert via e-mail is sent. This eliminates the need of checking prices every few days. Crunch the Numbers Most airlines and booking engines sell single price packages that combine airfare, hotel, airport transfers, and activities. Certainly, packages can be a deal, but occasionally they are not. To be sure, go to DealBase.com
18 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
to break down the package costs. Avoid Flight/Ticket Change Fees Be cautious when changing a purchased ticket. Carefully review the change and/or cancellation policy. If you must change, pay attention to the fees. Alaska, JetBlue and Southwest will refund (in form of a credit
for future flights) fare purchase differences if the current fare drops below your ticket purchase price. Other airlines consider it an itinerary change and will apply a change fee that could range from $50 to $250. Reserve a Seat Always reserve a seat at the time of booking. The longer the flight, the more attention should be paid in getting a decent seat. To reserve an exit-row seat, arrive at the
airport early for check-in, since these seats cannot be selected online or before the day of travel. Some airlines charge more for window seats or seats with extra legroom (including the exit row). When selecting a seat, consider the seat cost, length of flight and tolerance for discomfort. Be Prepared Do not rely on the blankets, pillows or earphones provided by the airlines. Airlines may charge a fee for these items or may not have enough on-board for everyone. Consider bringing a travel pillow and a blanket or sweater in case the plane gets chilly. Also, bring a book, personal handheld devices, and or headphones for free entertainment. Food can be purchased during flight, but, the quality and selection of airplane food can sometimes be less than desirable. Book the ticket yourself Be aware that many airlines charge a premium when you contact them -- such as booking a reservation over the phone (instead of online). All airlines except SouthWest Airlines charge additional fees to check a bag at the airport (vs. advance check-in online). G
Featuring Total Body Extreme class series Personal Training packages available Membership plans starting at $35 a month Includes unlimited gym use and group exercise classes Student discounts available
CALL TODAY (901) 454-0003 OR
visit www.powerlifefitness.net JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 19
20 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Fitness
2014 GET FIT! by TYRONE CHESTER
M
ost of us want to be fit. Or, at the very least, we should all aim for a leaner, healthier, and fitter lifestyle. Fitter equals less body fat and exercise is the way to become fitter. You could just diet to become slimmer, but your chances of losing weight will be much greater if you exercise, as well as diet. Fitter People Live Longer. A fitter person has a lower heart rate improving overall health. Greater fitness can also help your heart and lower the chance of having a stroke. Exercise increases your lung function allowing your body to absorb more oxygen to feed your brain and muscles. If you have hypertension, exercise can positively affect both diastolic and systolic numbers. Being fitter can also have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, reducing LDL cholesterol, while helping to raise the HDL level. Youthful stamina and strength can increase greatly when exercising. Let’s face it ---- we ALL need to exercise. But, attaining a regular exercise routine can be rather daunting. Finding the motivation to stick with exercise is a huge barrier for many of us. Workouts can easily become boring, repetitive, and for many people, rather lonely. Some people enjoy the solitude of exercise, but for many, trying to burn calories and build muscle alone is a staggering thought. One great way to beat workout boredom is to add a social element or a group workout to your routine. Group workouts are more enjoyable and boost
your motivation in many ways. The greatest asset of group workouts is the element of competition. Competition is pure motivation. When you exercise alone, you’re more likely to skip that extra push or say “that’s good enough” when you could push yourself a little farther. When you work out with a trainer or a group, you will think twice before quitting or giving up. A little healthy competition does many of us good and is especially true for getting in shape. If you are seeking the best you, get a personal trainer. People are quick to rule out a personal trainer as unnecessary, too expensive, or over indulgence. But, professional trainers bring the best of all exercise worlds. Trainers know how to execute moves safely, how to vary the exercises and how to focus on the fitness areas needing the most attention. A personal trainer knows the things we are not aware of while training. They will create a fitness regime tailored to your needs. A personal trainer will help build up your strength and stamina by developing a sensible program of exercise. Getting fit is rewarding. Just start with simple exercises and increase to a more developed program. Fitness is not something you can buy at the supermarket. In order to become fit --- take that first stretch -- you have to start somewhere. Good luck in 2014! G JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 21
YWCA Annual Luncheon
March 5, 2014 11:30 a.m. Hilton Memphis
Featuring KEMBA SMITH PRADIA Kemba Smith Pradia met the "wrong guy" at college. Her romance led to physical, mental and emotional abuse disguised as "love" and ending with a drug conspiracy charge and a 24.5 years sentence. After enduring 6.5 years in federal prison, Kemba was granted clemency from President Clinton. Kemba has shared her story with the nation and is an outspoken advocate for racial justice, reform of mandatory sentencing guidelines and on behalf of victims of domestic violence. Her long awaited memoir "Poster Child" will be available at the lunchen . luncheon.
$100 per person $1,000 per table To Reserve: 901-320-6002
Health
4 SIDE EFFECTS of Healthy Living
H
by LATASHA STONUM
ealthy living has a number of obvious benefits including reducing a person’s chances of developing debilitating illnesses and helping to increase a person’s life expectancy. Making healthy living decisions can also have a positive effect on other areas of life. These ‘side effects’ of healthy living provide great motivators for those struggling to make good health decisions. HAPPINESS Studies have shown that people who get plenty of exercise and eat a balanced diet have fewer episodes of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. There are a number of reasons for this including the release of mood boosting chemicals while exercising; the role of nutrition in brain function; and, exposure to sunlight which helps the body process nutrients that impact mental health. Simply, being sick on a frequent basis makes it difficult to stay happy and positive.
higher wages. Healthy people also pay lower health insurance rates than unhealthy people. BETTER SEX Healthy lifestyle choices can enhance a person’s sex life. Both diet and exercise play key roles in preventing the most common male and female sexual dysfunctions. Healthy lifestyle choices also help a person to maintain an active sex life by helping them to maintain a young and attractive appearance by reducing wrinkles, keeping hair healthy and supporting good posture. Healthy living also helps a person remain flexible and gives muscles stamina, attributes which can be useful in the bedroom. Though a person does not have full control over whether or not he/ she avoids health problems and live a long, healthy life; many contributing factors to a healthy life are under a person’s control. By eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, drinking only in moderation and getting plenty of exercise, a person can greatly increase his or her chances of living a long, healthy, active and happy life. G
BETTER SOCIAL LIFE People who are healthy find it easier to stay connected with others, especially as they age. Social interactions require a person to be active. Conversely, people who are in poor health are more likely to spend time at home dealing with their illnesses and they often miss out on social events and other activities where they could make friends or strengthen existing friendships. MORE MONEY Though living healthy may not make you rich, it will help you to generate more money. There are many reasons that healthy people tend to have more money than unhealthy people. One reason is health care expenses. The ever rising cost of healthcare makes it expensive to be sick. But healthy people get sick less often and have lower insurance rates. Healthy people also take fewer sick days from work which can result in better work performance and
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 23
Fitness
TRANSFORM YOUR BODY Do you want to get fit? Are you passionate about transforming your body? Join us for a Better You!
Get an extra push from your friends, family, GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness! Get fired up and join the GRACE Transformation Challenge. Get motivated with our competition and jump start your body transformation into “A Better You!” GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness are proud to present our 1st Annual GRACE Transformation Challenge. GRACE® Magazine will select three (3) Challenge Participants to Transform their body and become “A Better You!” GRACE® Magazine has partnered with Power Life Fitness to offer the GRACE Transformation Challenge. Power Life Fitness has a stellar reputation in the Memphis fitness industry and is known for its passionate intensity and outstanding results. Led by Kelvin “York” Brown, Power Life Fitness has provided successful results with individuals seeking to achieve their fitness goals since 2006. York is certified through the National Federation of Professional Trainers, where he has earned the distinction of Master Trainer. Power Life Fitness is centrally located in Memphis.
GRACE Transformation Challenge Entrant Fee: $100.00 Each Selected Participant will receive: √ A Six (6) Month Training Program with Power Life Fitness * • Fitn ess Evaluation Assessment • Five (5) Days a Week training (3 days cardio/ 2 days circuit/classes) • B efore/After Photographs • P rogress Maintenance Reports • P rogress Watch via GRACE® Magazine Bi-Monthly Feature $1,650.00 Value Each Entrant (NOT Selected for Challenge) will receive: √ A Two (2) Month Membership To Power Life Fitness $90.00 Value
The Transformation Winner will receive an additional six (6) month membership at Power Life Fitness and a GRACE® Magazine Transformation Experience Feature. The Transformation Winner is the individual who has successfully completed the six (6) month training; lost the most weight and/or body fat; and, has completed all program requirements. G
Entrant Forms available at www.gracemagazine.com/getfit Entrants Must Agree to All Official Rules. See page 68.
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 25
River City Chapter
Presents
The Black Theatre Museum
at The Renaissance Center – Lemoyne-Owen College on Walker Avenue EXPERIENCE BLACK HERITAGE AND CULTURE IN FOUR MAGNIFICENT EXHIBITION GALLERIES FILLED WITH EXCITING HISTORY AND FASCINATING THEATRE.
Admission: one (1) non-perishable food item to benefit the
Exhibit Schedule Friday, February 14, 2014 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Saturday, February 15, 2014 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Sunday, February 16, 2014 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Monday, February 17, 2014 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: rivercity@linksinc.org
26 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR COLLABORATING PARTNERS HATTILOO THEATRE HOLLIS F. PRICE MIDDLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL LEMOYNE-OWEN COLLEGE
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW!
Tips For Building A Stylish Wardrobe Around Timeless Classics.
by B. HENDERSON Before you max out your credit card on “one season wonders,” consider investing in classic wardrobe choices that will look stylish and current year after year. Smart fashionistas build their wardrobes around classic investment pieces. They use trendy pieces sparingly to look “in.” Always buy the best classic pieces you can afford. You’ll get your money’s worth over time. Buy trendy accents in small doses and at lower price points because they’ll be “out” before you blink! Here are five iconic items every woman should own and tips to make the “something old” feel like “something new!”
Necklace Wish Boutique Jacket Landford Market Dress Landford Market Shoes Fabulous Divaz
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Fashion
Necklace Wish Boutique Jacket Landford Market Dress Wish Boutique Shoes Aldo Shoes
THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS – The “LBD” is the cornerstone of the fashionable closet, with the added bonus of slenderizing. Yours should be plain black, with little or no embellishment. It can have any kind of sleeves or no sleeves at all, but nothing about it should say “trendy.” No asymmetrical hems, no distinctive buttons, no decorative zippers, and no pronounced shoulder pads! A LBD in a knit, crepe, or a lightweight wool, will carry you from season to season. The LBD is the perfect backdrop for every accessory. Add real or faux pearls and you’re ready for a corporate reception, a cocktail party, or fine dining. Put on a new, bold, statement necklace or silk scarf and you’re set for a luncheon, an interview, or the first dinner date with Mr. Right. In the fall and winter, throw on boots or booties, fun bracelets, and a colorful non-silk scarf, and you’ll be the stylish, chic lady at Sunday brunch, work, or the mall. Want to look like you walked off the runway? Add “hot” camouflage print anything – scarf, bag, or shoes. And, of course, if you want a dash of panache, do any of the above with a touch of red or gold. THE BLACK BLAZER – Want to look polished, welltraveled, chic, and have a slight air of mystery? If you don’t own one, purchase a black blazer. If you already have one, congratulations! You know the powerful secret of this quiet top. This timeless classic looks great on women and men. This classic piece makes any shirt or blouse look great – but much more stylish! Wear it with black slacks and shoes, and you suddenly look sleek and slim! Put on a skirt and boots and you’re ready for the boardroom or Gospel Brunch. Throw it on with jeans and become casually chic. If you’re fit and feeling frisky, rock it with a pair of black leggings and boots to look fresh and current. Blazers can be found in cotton, synthetics, wool, blends of the three, or of course, leather. If you opt for machine-washable fabrics, look for end-of-season sales and purchase an extra one. Rotate the two in the laundry. Black blazers are chic and stylish. Dingy black blazers are not! THE CRISP WHITE COTTON SHIRT – The one piece of clothing that can take you anywhere – from strolling down Beale Street to attending a black-tie event at the White House --- is the white cotton shirt. Pulled out or tucked in, belted or left plain, the white shirt, like a black turtleneck, is the perfect backdrop for your beautiful face. The open V-neck is not only slenderizing, it shows off the gorgeous skin tones of women of color. The white shirt works with everything you could possibly put on – slacks, jeans, long skirts, short skirts, mini-skirts, leggings, and shorts. Behind closed doors, it’s one of the sexiest things you can wear with nothing else. Turn up the collar for instant glam. Turn up the cuffs, with or without bracelets, and let the world know that your high-wattage style is effortless. Silver, gold, and colorful jewelry all work well with the white shirt. Put on a studded, gold statement necklace for today’s hot look. For elegance, opt for jet necklaces and earrings. The black jewelry is flattering on all skin tones. Turn up your collar, put on a colorful or black
Fashion
Earrings Crazy Beautiful Blazer Crazy Beautiful Bracelet Crazy Beautiful Shirt Crazy Beautiful Jeans Crazy Beautiful Bag Crazy Beautiful Shoes Lola’s Shoetique
Blazer Crazy Beautiful Shirt Banana Republic Bracelet Celery Skirt Crazy Beautiful Shoes Aldo Shoes
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Fashion
Blouse Crazy Beautiful Necklace Forever 21 Bag Celery Shoes Aldo Shoes
skirt, bright lipstick, and black heels, and you’ll stand out at every cocktail party or dinner. If you’re not the most skilled person with starch and an iron, consider having your shirt washed and pressed at the drycleaner. The crisp white shirt is the fashion icon. A RED HANDBAG – “Hot!” “Danger!” “Stop!” “Sexy!” Most of us have an immediate and intense reaction to the color red. Red grabs your attention! Whether it’s a touch of lipstick or the bottom of a shoe, every fashion ensemble is stepped up a bit with a little dash of red. If you’re in the market for a new bag, consider buying a red one. You can find one in a range of shades and in leathers, exotic skins, synthetics, and natural fabrics. A red messenger or cross-body bag will stand out with jeans at your next Girls’ Night Out. Carry a red shoulder bag to add a touch of style to a conservative suit at work. A red canvas tote is perfect for carrying folders for the PTA or running to the supermarket. If you’re in the market to splurge, a red leather bag in any size is a worthwhile investment. Take advantage of the end-of-season sales to find your iconic red skin bag. For the evening, a red satin clutch adds the right amount of festivity to your Little Black Dress at your company party or that special evening. Red shades range from cool to warm tones just like our skin. To find your best match, stop at a local cosmetic counter to determine if you’re a “cool” or “warm” woman. Look for a bag with the same tones. No matter the shade, your style will be “hot!” G 30 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Fashion Shirt Addison Bracelet Wish Boutique Necklace Wish Boutique Skirt Langford Market
Shirt Wish Boutique Bracelets Langford Market Ring Langford Market Jeans Wish Boutique Shoes Forever 21
JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 31
DR. DENISE MUSTIFUL-MARTIN And the Staff of Periodontal Specialist of Memphis & The Malodor Clinic of the Mid-South
Do you have Gum Disease, Pyorrhea or do your Gums BLEED? YOU MAY HAVE PERIODONTAL DISEASE! Do People cover their nose when are speaking to them? You may have bad breath or a Malodor! DID YOU KNOW THAT GUM DISEASE HAS BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE FOLLOWING MEDICAL CONDITIONS? • Ca rdiovascular Disease/Heart Disease and High Blood Pressure • Dia betes • L ow Birth weight babies and pre-term babies • E rectile dysfunction
If any of these Signs, Symptoms, Disorders or Conditions describes YOU! Call the Office of Dr. Denise Mustiful-Martin for a through Evaluation and Examination
901-276-6000 or 1-866-246-1899
WWW.PERIODONTALSPECIALISTOFMEMPHIS.WEBS.COM
32 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Grace Talks To
NELSON MANDELA The Man Who Toppled Apartheid by TONI HARVEY
P
robably the most famous South African ever, Nelson Mandela, is an icon of tolerance and humanity. His life story is one of struggle, hardship and, ultimately, victory. How did this remarkable man become the saviour of a country that nearly plunged into an orgy of violence and bloodshed? Despite such extreme obstacles, Mandela led a nation from the inhumane system of apartheid to liberation and reconciliation. Mr. Mandela was born with the birth name Rolihlahla
Mandela. He was the son of the Thembu Chief in Mvezo, Transkei where he was groomed to be the future chief. At the age of 7, while attending primary school near the tiny rural village, Qunu, a teacher gave him the name Nelson (in accordance with custom) and he became the icon we know, Nelson Mandela. Mandela’s tribe was the largest tribe in the Transkei and located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. The tribe became one of apartheid South Africa’s hated ‘Bantustans’. In 1930, Mandela’s father passed and he was placed under the guardianship of the acting paramount chief. JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 33
Grace Talks To
Nine years later, Mr. Mandela enrolled in the University College of Fort Hare, in Alice, where his life soon took a different turn. He became embroiled in student politics and was expelled in 1940 after taking part in a strike. This was the beginning of Mandela’s long struggle against authority. After expulsion from the University, Mandela sought employment and took a position as a mine policeman in Johannesburg. Here, he met Walter Sisulu. In 1944, Mr. Mandela, together with Walter Sisulu, co-founded the African National Congress Youth League – the Youth League of the African National Congress (ANC). In 1948, four years after Mandela & Sisulu’s founding the ANC Youth League, the Nationalist Party won control of the country and immediately imposed the policy of apartheid (or separate development), stripping all blacks of their right to vote, among other rights. By 1949, the national executive of the ANC became increasingly vociferous in its complaints against white rule. In 1952, Mandela partnered with Oliver Tambo and formed the first black law firm in South Africa. Mandela continued seeking justice for all. He was a key leader in uniting disaffected people to support a defiance campaign aimed to enlist volunteers to violate apartheid laws. These actions led to Mandela’s arrest in December 1952 where
34 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
he was found guilty, sentenced to nine months imprisonment with hard labour; sentence suspended for two years. That year, Mandela was elected the first ANC deputy president. In 1956, Mandela, along with 155 others, was arrested, tried for Treason and eventually acquitted. Four years later, 1960, the
ANC was banned by the apartheid government and Mandela went underground and formed Umkhonto weSizwe (MK); the military wing of the ANC, of which he became the first commander-in-chief. Confrontation with apartheid authorities was now inevitable, particularly as Mandela was openly calling for violence. After leaving the country illegally to address a conference in Addis Ababa, in 1962, Mandela was arrested on his return, and jailed for incitement to violence. During his incarceration, the police discovered Mandela’s diary which detailed his plans for a guerrilla struggle. He was charged and tried for conspiracy to overthrow the state. Mandela and his accomplices were jailed for life in June 1964. Mandela was imprisoned for the next 27 years, first at Robben Island, then, from April 1982, in Pollsmoor prison in Cape Town. Even imprisoned, he remained a thorn in the side of the apartheid regime. In Mandela, others found a hero whom they could rally. Demands for his release grew loud and far. South Africa plummeted into a new bout of bloodshed, precipitated by the Soweto uprisings in 1986, as the black majority insisted on freedom from apartheid. On February 2, 1990, the ANC was unbanned and Mandela was released from prison nine days later. The next month, Mandela was elected ANC Deputy President. December 10, 1993, Nelson Mandela, along with Frederik Willem de Klerk, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their
Grace Talks To
work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime and for laying the foundation for a new democratic South Africa. On April 27, 1994, at the age of 75, Nelson Mandela voted for the first time in his life and two weeks later was inaugurated as President of the Republic of South Africa. As President, Mandela established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate human rights violations under apartheid and introduced numerous initiatives designed to improve the living standards of South Africa’s black population. Mandela retired from politics in June, 1999 at the age of 80. In a world with very few iconic figures, Mandela is surely one of the greatest. By having the courage of his convictions, he overturned a cruel system of government and, in so doing, gave up much of his own life. In 2000, President Mandela travelled to Memphis to accept the National Civil Rights Museum International Freedom Award. Mandela remained a global advocate for peace and social justice until his death on December 5, 2013. While in Memphis, President Mandela opened his arms to the children of Memphis; as he stood on the Lorraine Motel balcony, he opened his heart to Memphis; in his speeches, he opened his tomes of wisdom to Memphis; but most of all, Mandela touched Memphis! G I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die. Nelson Mandela
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Grace Talks To
BEVERLY C. ROBERTSON by LISA LEW On a clear day, November 22, 2000, a plane touched down at the Memphis International Airport. By all accounts it was a typical autumn day in Memphis except that day marked a significant event for thousands of Memphians, -- a once in a lifetime opportunity. On that plane was Nelson Mandela, travelling to Memphis as the recipient of the National Civil Rights Museum’s prestigious International Freedom Award. The National Civil Rights Museum International Freedom Award was established to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to civil rights and serve as symbols to the many around the world working towards human rights. President Mandela’s selection as recipient was, of course, a no-brainer. However, the arduous task to gain his actual acceptance of the Award and moreover, get President Mandela to travel to Memphis was accomplished essentially through the tenacious efforts of National Civil Rights Museum President, Beverly Robertson. GRACE met with Mrs. Robertson to gain her insight on Mandela touching Memphis. We asked Mrs. Robertson to tell us about President Mandela’s selection –
R
OBERTSON: The former South African President had been on the Museum’s recipient list for the Freedom Award for some time. His acceptance was the culmination of several requests and attempts over a six year span; 36 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
countless faxes, and a trip to South Africa. In 2000, the Museum reinvigorated its efforts to bring Nelson Mandela to Memphis and it just so happened -- things just fell into place. The Museum extended the International Freedom Award to President Mandela on more than one occasion. For one reason or the other, such as he was governing the Country; his health, or simply scheduling unavailability – he was unable to accept the Award. But, in 2000, while attending my daughter’s graduation at Southern University Baton Rouge, I met individuals forming a delegation to tour South Africa and also to meet with Nelson Mandela. I was able to join the Southern University delegation and tour South Africa. When we arrived in Johannesburg, I was excited. We met with Nelson Mandela at his home. I could not believe it … when he came out to greet us. During our meeting, he was made aware of my employment with the Museum where Dr. King was murdered, and he said to me, “While I was fighting Apartheid in South Africa I looked as my example to the America’s Civil Rights struggle, what Dr. King was doing there in the United States.” When asked what it was like meeting President Mandela. Mrs. Robertson replied, “I never quite met anybody like him. I think about 27 years in prison…the revenge, bitterness. It had to be painful…but you never saw the manifestation of that…he had a redemptive, forgiving, compassionate spirit … and you could feel it. He was a special person, and honestly, I believe you meet people
like that once in a lifetime.” Comparing Mandela to other leaders, Robertson spoke gingerly, “I met a lot of global leaders in my time, and some of them have a little bit of an edge, some have a little more arrogance, some … maybe a little abrasive?” But, then her voice became resonant, “His [Mandela’s] spirit was one of honoring you… it was never about him. It was always about you…always about other people. Never was [it] ever a self-centered feeling … [there was] a calm countenance, graciousness, sweet spirit that was associated with him. Even after all he had gone through, he was gentle, sweet, humble… but you could feel he was strong. He had an inner strength that you could feel. Courageous, committed -- that was the kind of leader he was. And, being around him, it appeared he never met a stranger,” Robertson added with a laugh. “Gracious, never full of himself. Self-effacing…” Robertson continued. Later flying home to Memphis, Robertson was hopeful but not certain, “He said he would come. But (was I) really sure he would really come?” Robertson said with a smile. She returned to Memphis with much trepidation and a whole lot of hope. At the end of September, one day while standing near the fax machine in her office, Robertson said she heard, “the machine come alive and something was coming across it...” Robertson picked up the fax to read it and to her surprise it was confirmation that Nelson Mandela would accept the Award and attend the Award ceremony. “It
Grace Talks To had to be one of proudest moments --- just to receive confirmation that he would be here,” she beamed. Nelson Mandela was coming to Memphis! Two months after receiving the confirmation fax, Memphis awaited the arrival of the anti-apartheid leader. Mrs. Robertson shared that Mandela, immediately upon arriving in the city, asked to go directly to the Lorraine Motel - where Martin Luther King, Jr. last stood. “This was unlike previous honorees. An impromptu visit to the Museum had not been foreseen. I scrambled to have individuals get to the Museum to greet President Mandela.” At the Lorraine Motel, President Mandela was joined by Civil Rights leaders Dr. Benjamin Hooks and Rev. Samuel “Billy” Kyles. As the men entered Room 306, Mandela made his way out onto the balcony and stood in silence. Exactly what he was thinking or feeling no one knows for certain, but those in attendance that day said, “He could not help but weep,” said Robertson softly. “He was overcome and very emotional,” she added, “a visceral connection standing on the ground where Dr. King last stood…the very ground that kept his [Mandela’s] spirit alive during his years of imprisonment on Robben Island.” The next day, the great fighter of apartheid, spoke to a crowd of thousands at the Temple of Deliverance Church of God In Christ. There, it was standing room only for a crowd of over 7000, many of whom waited hours outside hoping for a seat. Most of those in attendance were schoolaged children. Even the youngest of them was able to recognize the weight of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; all present knew they were in the presence of greatness. Referencing King’s assassination, Mandela stated “Many decades after that tragic event, I could not be composed. It was too heavy for me to bear.” Everyone stood riveted as they listened intently to every word from South Africa’s most famous civil rights leader. In his speech, Mandela challenged the world to set an example for young people. “There are good men and women who want to perform for the good of their country. Those who are going to succeed are those that are committed to peace, not violence.” In the weeks prior to Mandela’s appearance, Memphis school students collected books for President Mandela to take to South Africa’s disadvantaged children and a donation of $100,000 for his foundation. Robertson remarked, “Not only did the students get to see one of the world’s greatest human rights leaders, but they learned lessons about places they’d never heard of. They learned about the struggles of a people they were not aware of but were their African brothers and sisters.” Robertson further noted that the Museum originally planned to have designated representatives present the books to Mandela (for security reasons). But instead, with open arms Mandela said, “Let the children come.” And with that, “The children came streaming down the aisles. We were singing. Everybody stood. Tears were
rolling down everyone’s face,” Robertson recounts. She said Mandela was also moved by the hundreds of Memphis school children at the event who brought books to be given to their counterparts in South Africa. Before we parted, we asked Mrs. Robertson what she thought one could learn from President Mandela. Her response was immediate, “President Mandela’s greatest legacy is his strength of character, for others -- his capacity for forgiveness, or perhaps his imposing intellect, or his passion for South Africa. What is less celebrated is his passion for children and young people. [You] Got to start young. That is the reason he embraced young people and children; the reason he said, “Let the children come,” the reason they had a choir of young people singing at his funeral; children are the future; that was his heart; that was his passion. He understood you got to start shaping and molding minds while they’re young and if you can get to them then, you change a person’s future. He believed in working with young people.” Author’s Note: Though Nelson Mandela and MarMar tin Luther King Jr. never met there are great paral parallels between the two venervener ated leaders. During their youth, they prepared themthem selves through education -King who attended divinity school to become a preachpreach er developed himself into a strong voice for the Civil Rights struggle and ManMan dela who chose to become a lawyer knowledgeable in the law chose to fight for justice. They both fought for the same cause during the same time; and each was prepared to give his life in order to realize the same dream -- a society of blacks and whites as equals. King made his famous speech on August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington. A year later, Mandela also spoke of harmony during a trial prior to his life sentencing: “I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” King and Mandela were inspirational symbols for freedom, both moral leaders with very strong principles, both offered to the other side a vision of a shared future. Both were Nobel Peace Prize laureates, King in 1964 as the first person in the Western world to demonstrate a struggle can be waged without violence; and Mandela in 1993 for his work towards a peaceful termination of the apartheid regime. G We will not likely see the likes of Nelson Mandela again, so it falls to us as best we can to forward the example that he set. To make decisions guided not by hate, but by love. To never discount the difference that one person can make. To strive for a future that is worthy of his sacrifice. For now, let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson Mandela lived. A man who took history in his hands and bent the arc of the moral universe towards justice. May God bless his memory and keep him in peace. President Barack Obama JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 37
Grace Talks To
DR. WILLIE W. HERENTON
T
he National Civil Rights Museum brought President Nelson Mandela to Memphis in 2000 during the mayoral tenure of Dr. Willie Herenton. The Honorable Willie W. Herenton was the first black elected as Mayor of the City of Memphis. Dr. Herenton’s election broke racial barriers in a community polarized by race, and brought the dawn of a new era. The parallel of Dr. Herenton’s election to President Mandela’s election is remarkable; the fact that Dr. Herenton was Mayor during President Mandela’s Memphis visit was karma. GRACE asked Dr. Herenton to share his thoughts on President Mandela touching Memphis. We met Dr. Herenton in his office at W.E.B. DuBois Charter Schools Consortium. The walls of the conference room showcase numerous photographs and Awards offering a glimpse into Dr. Heren-
38 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
by LISA LEW ton’s numerous accomplishments. Before sitting down, Dr. Herenton points to one of the pictures -- a picture of him and Nelson Mandela. As he points, he shared “That was the second picture placed in this entire office. The first was a picture of Dr. King. You see, Dr. King and Nelson Mandela are my heroes.” GRACE: Can you describe for our readers your meeting with President Mandela? HERENTON: My first meeting with President Mandela was not during Mandela’s Memphis visit, rather, it was years earlier during a State Dinner honoring President Mandela at the White House in 1994 at the invitation of President Bill Clinton. My first impression of President Mandela was [that] he was a tall man, a former boxer; I could look at his body frame and his posture and instantly, I knew he was a fighter. I was a fighter as well, so, I could see it in his physique, in his countenance, his stance. There’s something about a fighter and a
particular stance, when I looked at him I could see [he was] physically -- a man of strength.” GRACE: You said earlier that President Mandela was your hero. What did it mean to you to meet him? HERENTON: Well, it was incomparable. You have to understand, what it means to touch your hero. Can you imagine placing your hand into the hand of a person you admire, that you pattern your actions after, that you look up to? I actually placed my hand in the hand of Nelson Mandela. The feeling cannot be described. Touching greatness! I never got to meet Dr. King, I think that is the only meeting that could possibly surpass meeting Mandela. GRACE: Were you surprised by the fact that President Mandela was physically fit? HERENTON: I expected all that I saw, because just think about it, for a human to endure what Nelson Mandela endured, well,
Grace Talks To he was obviously a very strong man – strong physically, spiritually and mentally. He had to be in order to endure the type of mental and physical hardship he had experienced. So I knew that was the kind of man I was going to see. I was, however, surprised at the juxtaposition of such physical and mental fortitude with humility and gentleness in manner and speech. He was a gentleman. GRACE: What qualities do leaders such as Mandela possess? HERENTON: Courage of conviction. He [Mandela] focused on improving the human condition for South Africans that the people were enduring under apartheid. He was passionate about it and unrelenting about his quest. Great leaders stand by their convictions with faith and courage. He was a man willing to die. He said he would die for his cause and his convictions. That’s rare. A leader has to have a strong sense of purpose and focus even when the odds are so heavily against him. Vigilance, perseverance, tenacity . . . Good leaders are unbending, unyielding, unrelenting and they move ahead. I think true leaders know that they aren’t perfect, they also have fallibilities,” Herenton paused and ended with, “they have their strengths and weaknesses; they are just human beings with different challenges.” GRACE: What do you think of Mandela as a Leader? HERENTON: Nelson Mandela is head and shoulders above them all [today’s leaders]…imprisoned for 27 years, and death while there [losing a son and his mother] …what he had to endure, and through the grace of God and his strength -- he persevered and emerged an even greater leader….his mental state so intact -- so strong…. all for the good and future of South Africa. I think everyone knew Nelson Mandela would eventually be president, but the white South Africans, the [once] ruling leadership had to be in acceptance of that. Mandela knew he had to work with them for the good of the cause. I think of the transition Mandela led -- from racial segregation with a white ruling government to a democracy led by a black South African. Mandela’s lesson for any leader is: power is better used when colored with forgiveness rather than with revenge. GRACE: How would you compare your leadership to that of President Mandela? HERENTON: I am nowhere near the likes of Mandela and Memphis
is at a much smaller scale than South Africa. I don’t even compare. I’ve had some trials and tribulations of being a leader in my own city. I saw in Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King some traits, some qualities that I know that are very important to me, and that I try, to the best of my ability, to embrace. During my leadership role, I had a number of challenges. Sometimes … the direction I was charting may not have been well received by all Memphians, but I had to … keep pushing forward if I believed it was in the best interest of Memphis. Nelson Mandela believed equality and dignity were important to the future of South Africa and he believed in fighting against the ruling class to ensure that South Africa was a nation where all could enjoy freedom and opportunity. Mandela was the first Black South African to rise to the level of governance in his country. When I was elected Mayor of Memphis, I was the first Black elected to that office. Memphis was no apartheid, but there was a racial divide. GRACE: How do you believe others will view President Mandela years from now? HERENTON: History inescapably has to describe Mandela as a man who not only figuratively stood tall, [but] he was tall in strength. He was tall in character. He was tall in conviction. He will go down in history as one of the world’s greatest leaders. I think it is impossible to understand how a person can come out of prison and not be angry at the world -- [to] assume power and not exert that power in a negative way. No revenge, just dignity, quiet strength, a smile. He could have been a different leader. There could have been bloodshed [because] the people loved and revered Mandela. Instead, he was a leader in our time that we won’t likely see again. Yes, indeed. G Author’s Note: The world will be forever changed by President Nelson Mandela and will be forever better because of him. Dr. Herenton’s reflections of President Mandela reminded me of my favorite Mandela quote – I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended. Nelson Mandela JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 39
SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Hilton Memphis Ballroom, 939 Ridgelake Blvd.
Going Places. Going Strong
2014 ANNUAL FUNDRAISING LUNCHEON 11:00 A.M • $50.00 per ticket • Contact: 901.363.3100
40 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Feature
HOLIDAY COTILLION Photos by DARIUS B. WILLIAMS - AQUARIUS CREATIVE STUDIO
T
he Memphis Chapter of The Links, Incorporated (“Memphis Links Chapter”) has served the Memphis community since 1952. In its 62 years, the Memphis Links Chapter has made major contributions to the Memphis and Shelby County community through the enrichment of the lives of women and girls, increased access to higher education, support of general education, presentations of the arts, and financial contributions through grants to local organizations.
The national organization, The Links Incorporated is an international, non-profit corporation, established in 1946. The membership consists of 12,000 professional women of color in 276 chapters located in 41 states, the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. It is one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations of extraordinary women who are committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. Since 1988, the Memphis Links Chapter has sponsored the
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Feature
Debutante Waltz Performance; “Holiday Cotillion.” Since its inception, over 400 young women have successfully participated in the Holiday Cotillion. The Holiday Cotillion recognizes notable High School Senior women who excel academically, socially and morally in Memphis, TN and celebrates their accomplishments while preparing them for presentation to womanhood and society. The Holiday Cotillion is a six month experience preparing young ladies to become successful role models and leaders in the community. The Debutante journey can begin as a High School Junior where the Deb-To-Be joins the Program as a Lady-In-Waiting. The LadiesIn-Waiting experience various workshops and events and participate as assistants to the Debutantes during the Debutante Ball. Their experience paves the way for their next year as a Cotillion Debutante. The Cotillion Debutantes are exposed to exceptional opportunities and broader horizons through a strong mentoring program garnered from the breadth of experience among the Memphis Links Chapter’s members. The Cotillion’s
Father and daughter dance. 42 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
2013 Holiday Cotillion Escorts
2013 Holiday Cotillion Ladies-in-Waiting
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Feature
Cotillion Debs & Escorts performing Presentation Waltz
Father/Daughter Golf Outing
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focus on service to others reinforces and underscores the importance of giving back to the community that has afforded its residents so much while enhancing the personal growth of the outstanding young women chosen as Debutantes. This year, the Holiday Cotillion celebrated its 25th anniversary of honoring outstanding young women in our community. This year, the Holiday Cotillion was honored to have thirteen outstanding young ladies in its program. During the six month program, the Debutantes enjoyed numerous outings and workshops including etiquette classes, financial workshops, volunteer opportunities, and countless hours of ballroom dancing. Family events, such as the Father/Daughter Golf Outing and a Mother-Daughter Luncheon offered parents the opportunity to join their daughter’s Debutante journey. During their leisure time, Debutantes enjoyed a bowling night, weekend bonding retreats, Halloween outings, and a spa day with full manicure and pedicure treatments. The Debutante experience grows to a close with the Rites of Passage where the Debutante transcends into womanhood before presentation to society. Debutantes end their journey with complete grace and elegance as the experience culminates with the Holiday Cotillion Ball held annually at the Peabody Hotel. This wonderful and delightful experience highlights values and standards of becoming a woman and fosters an awareness and proficiency that each Debutante values for a lifetime.
Feature
Top Left: Schyler Alexandra Cole, Heir-O-Link Cimone Janette Bridgewater, Darielle Alexandria Doby, Kristin Nichole Adams
Top Right: Imaan Hassan Esse, Alexis Rome Franklin, Janaye Alexandria Lynne Green, Chelsea Arneice Gray
Bottom Left: Autumn Alexis White, Cache’ Courtney Truitt, Jada Nicole Tate, Akilah Patel Showers, Victoria Marie Wallace
For information regarding the “Holiday Cotillion” or becoming a Debutante, please submit inquiry to president@memphis-linksinc.org.
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Food
VALENTINE’S DAY Dine In or Dine Out?
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by TAY VIN
alentine’s Day is a day that is celebrated by showing gifts of love to your loved ones typically through flowers, cards, candy or jewelry. Like every other holiday, it is celebrated in many ways, from simple handmade cards to elaborate and extravagant gifts. Nevertheless, the most common form of celebration includes a dinner. So, what do you do: dine in or dine out? DINING OUT This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday. If you have that favorite dining spot for a romantic evening, you need to make your reservations at least a month in advance. Some restaurants offer on-line reservation services. If the restaurant does not take reservations, I recommend choosing a totally different night to celebrate (Thursday night or Sunday night). Friday and Saturday are typically busy dining evenings without Valentine’s Day traffic. While restaurants try their best to provide adequate staff, it is a busy time to have a “romantic” dinner. Most highend restaurants have reduced menus and “seating” schedules so they can adequately rotate people in and out as fast as possible. So, the best dining experiences will probably be before
Friday or after Sunday afternoon. However, you should agree on an alternate date so it won’t appear you have forgotten the day! DINING IN There are so many wonderful options for dining in. Think of your loved one’s favorite meal or a fun/best date that you had that included food. Here are a few ideas to help create a special day: • Re-create a special moment or go to a special place for the day. • Create a card as opposed to buying one from the store. Use your own words and add details that aren’t in a typical Hallmark card. • Add some special details to your dinner. What is your loved one’s favorite dinner? Prepare or Order it! • Prepare his/her favorite dessert (or order it from a bakery). Dining in provides you with the option of having exactly what you want, not what is on a limited menu. You may get a reservation at your favorite restaurant, but if they are serving a reduced menu, your favorite item may not be on the menu that night. If you opt for a special romantic “Dining In” Meal, I have included my favorite Valentine’s Dinner for Two in the Recipes. G JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 47
Recipes
the
COURSE
Valentine Dinner for Two Roasted Poussins with Cumin Lemon, Roasted Potato Wedges, Steamed Broccoli & Passion-Fruit Meringues
Roasted Poussins with Cumin Lemon INGREDIENTS ½ stick unsalted butter, softened 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro ½ teaspoon finely grated fresh lemon zest ¼ teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 Poussins (young chickens; about 1 lb. each) 1/3 cup dry white wine DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 425°F. In a small bowl stir together 3 tablespoons butter, cilantro, zest, cumin, salt, and pepper until combined. Trim necks of Poussins flush with bodies if necessary. Rinse birds inside and out and pat dry. Beginning at neck end of each bird, slide fingers between meat and skin to loosen skin (be careful not to tear skin). Divide seasoned butter into 4 portions. Using a teaspoon put 1 portion of butter under skin of each breast half. Spread seasoned butter evenly under skin by pressing outside of skin with fingers. If desired, tie legs of each bird together with kitchen string and secure wings to sides with wooden picks or skewers.
Roasted Potato Wedges INGREDIENTS 2 medium boiling potatoes (about ¾ lb.) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ½ teaspoon kosher salt DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 425°F. Peel potatoes and cut into ½ inch-thick wedges. In a small roasting pan toss potatoes with oil and salt and roast in oven until golden and crisp, about 45 minutes.
Steamed Broccoli INGREDIENTS: ½ lb. broccoli
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DIRECTIONS Cut broccoli into very small florets. In a steamer steam broccoli over boiling water, covered, until crisp tender, about 1½ minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Arrange birds in a flameproof roasting pan just large enough to hold them. Melt remaining tablespoon butter. Brush butter onto birds and season them with salt. Roast birds in upper third of oven 45 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in meatiest part of inner thigh registers l70°F. Transfer birds to a platter and loosely cover with foil to keep warm. Add wine to roasting pan and deglaze over moderate heat, scraping up brown bits. Remove pan from heat and skim fat from sauce. Serve Poussins with sauce. Cooks’ note: Small Cornish hens [about 1¼ lb. each) make a fine substitute for Poussins.
Recipes Passion-Fruit Meringues Even though you’ll only need 4 meringue layers, this recipe calls for 6-thus allowing for the possibility of breakage...or snacks!
INGREDIENTS (Meringue Layers) 2 large egg whites 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar ½ cup sugar (FILLING & GARNISH) 4 passion fruits 1/3 cup well-chilled heavy cream 1½ teaspoons sugar 1 small pomegranate (optional) (SPECIAL EQUIPMENT) Parchment paper pastry bag with a ½ -inch plain tip
DIRECTIONS Make meringue layers: Preheat oven to 200°F and oil a baking sheet. On a sheet of parchment paper, using a 3- or 4-inch heart shaped cutter as a guide, draw 6 hearts. Turn parchment over and put on baking sheet. In a large bowl with an electric mixer beat whites with cream of tartar and a pinch salt until they just hold soft peaks. Gradually beat in sugar and beat until meringue just holds stiff, glossy peaks. Transfer meringue to a pastry bag fitted with a ½ inch plain tip and pipe evenly onto parchment hearts, filling them in. Bake meringue layers in middle of oven 45 minutes, or until crisp and firm. (If weather is humid, cooking time may be longer.) Cool meringue layers completely on baking sheet in turned-off oven and carefully peel off parchment. Make filling Halve 3 passion fruits and scoop out pulp (including seeds and juice) into a sieve set over a bowl. Force pulp through sieve, pressing hard on seeds, and discard seeds. In a bowl beat cream until it holds soft peaks and fold in passion-fruit juice and sugar until just combined.
Make garnish Halve remaining passion fruit and scoop out seeds, reserving them. Halve pomegranate. Bending back rinds, dislodge some seeds from membranes, reserving them, and reserve some juice. Arrange a meringue heart on each of 2 plates. Top hearts with whipped cream and garnish with some, reserved passion-fruit and pomegranate seeds. Top each dessert with 1 more meringue heart. Garnish desserts with more passion-fruit and pomegranate seeds and some reserved juice. Cooks’ notes: • If you don’t have a pastry bag, you can divide meringue among Parchment hearts, spreading with a small spatula to fill in. • Meringue layers may be kept, layered between sheets of parchment paper, in an airtight container in a cool, dry place 1 week. • Desserts may be made 2 hours ahead and chilled, loosely covered. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Submit your Recip es GRACE® is hung ry for your favori te Southerninspired dish for our 2014 GRACE® recipe search. We want your best homema de recipes!
Email recipes to: recipes@gra cemagazine.com
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www.cocktailcuties901.com 50 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Graceful Dining
SIX SIMPLE STEPS TO AN ELEGANT TABLE by ALICE POSTON
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ith the right planning, dining in can be a relaxing and welcoming alternative to dining out, especially if you book a caterer to prepare the meal. With the meal handled by a caterer, all you have to do is set the table. Here’s a refresher on setting a simple, yet elegant dinner table for Valentine’s Day. Your table setting sets the mood for your dining experience. We selected an understated, elegant color scheme of charcoal and ivory accented with a red Valentine floral centerpiece. Cover the table with a floor length cloth in the color of your choice. Solids are the better choice as your plates and centerpiece offer room for to add flourish and flair. TIP: Use a table pad. It will protect the table finish from heat and spills and will cushion your table linen for a smooth look. The china, stemware and silverware to be used for each place setting are determined by the menu. For our example, we set the table for a simple dinner with salad, entrée, vegetables and wine. Keep in mind that your menu determines the items needed for each place setting. So know your menu before you set your dinner table. Follow these Six Simple Steps to an Elegant Table. Step 1: The Plate Place the plates on the table first. Some people like to use charger plates for an added touch. Charger plates are large service plates. They come in various colors to compliment any table. If you choose to use a charger plate, place the dinner plate on top of the charger plate. Elbow room requires a minimum of fifteen (15) inches between place settings. For each place setting, the JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 51
Graceful Dining
plate should be perfectly centered on the table directly in front of the seat. TIP: The bottom of the plate should be one (1) inch from the edge of the table. Step 2: The Forks Place your dinner fork to the left side of the plate one (1) inch from the edge of the plate or charger. The fork should be perfectly parallel with the plate. If you are serving a salad, the salad fork should be placed perfectly parallel to the left of the dinner fork. The bottom of the salad fork should line up with the bottom of the dinner fork. TIP: All utensils should be aligned with the bottom rim of the plate or charger one (1) inch from the edge of the table. Step 3: The Knife Place your knife for the meat course on the right hand side of the plate with the sharp edge of the knife facing toward the plate. The space between the knife and fork on each side of the plate should be the same. Step 4: The Spoon Place your spoon to the right of the knife
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with the cup side facing up. Check point: You know you’ve lined everything up properly if you can draw an imaginary straight line that runs from the bottom edge of the salad fork, to the dinner fork, to the plate, to the knife to the spoon. Step 5: The Stemware The stemware depends on the beverages you serve. For a simple dinner, you might serve water, wine, tea or coffee. There must be a glass or receptacle for each beverage that will be served. The water glass should be placed at the top right of the plate approximately one (1) inch directly centered above the tip of the knife. If wine will also be served, the wine glass should be placed to the right of the water goblet. The top of the wine glass should line up with the center of the water goblet. TIP: If you’ve lined the glasses up properly, you should be able to draw an imaginary (slightly downward) diagonal line between the water glass and the wine glass. Step 6: The Napkin
The napkin is your opportunity for creativity. For an informal dinner, the napkin can be placed on the center of the plate. It can be placed inside a napkin ring or just neatly folded and placed on the plate. If you prefer, the napkin can also be neatly folded and placed on the left hand side of the plate next to the fork. There are several ways to fold napkins. One simple way is to fold the napkin in half and then fold it in half again to form a square. Then fold the napkin in half again. Place the napkin on the center of the plate with the rounded edge facing the right and the open corners facing the left. This is done so that your guest can easily lift the napkin from the corners and, with one smooth motion, place it in their lap with the fold facing the body. CHECK POINT: Last touch – Make sure all guests are able to see over the floral arrangement (from any seat and any angle). Now, step back and enjoy!
G
Money Matters
ADJUSTING YOUR FINANCES WHEN YOU LOSE YOUR JOB
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or most families, losing a job can mean a significant change in income and in their overall financial picture. Most unemployed workers are hopeful they will find another job quickly, but that is becoming increasingly unlikely with the nation’s unemployment rate hovering just under 8 percent. If you do lose your job, it is important to quickly adjust your expenses and spending to match your new household income. Here are some ways to manage your post-employment finances. 1. Start looking for work immediately.
by LATASHA STONUM
Many newly unemployed assume they’ll find a job quickly and decide to take a little staycation before initiating their job search. As appealing as it sounds, this is not the best idea. When unemployment is high and the economy is struggling to recover from a downturn, a job is not necessarily guaranteed. You may misjudge your ability to secure a job or obtain a comparable paying position. 2. Collect all compensation due from your former employer. Before severing ties with your former employer, make sure you receive compensation for all work performed, including your last day of work. Also, investigate whether your former employer offers a severance
package prior to your departure. 3. Apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. Each state has different unemployment eligibility requirements. In Tennessee, you can file for unemployment benefits online and avoid standing in line. In many cases, if you file online and are eligible, your first unemployment check should be received, via direct deposit, within 7-10 days of filing. Not all workers are entitled to unemployment insurance. To help qualify, you’ll want your employer to confirm that you were laid off instead of resigning or being fired for cause, such as misconduct.
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Money Matters
4. Create a budget. Before you make any changes to your finances, you need to know exactly how much you are spending. It is always a good idea to keep a budget and track your income and expenses but, if you haven’t done so up to now, this is the perfect time to start. Find your last three bank statements and summarize what you spent each month. Categorize your expenses, such as mortgage payments, heat, maintenance, and groceries. Prepare a monthly budget by writing out those same categories and estimating your monthly expenditures based on the past three months. 5. Consult your family. Talk with your spouse, any children or other family members who depend on you financially about how the job loss will affect family spending. Ask them for budgeting suggestions. This can help ease anxiety they may have, especially if you have to make a major change such as relocating. 6. Review your healthcare options If you had a healthcare insurance plan through your employer, you will also lose your healthcare coverage. This could devastate you financially if a family member is or becomes seriously ill and you are not 54 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
covered. You should price out individual health policies with various carriers and be sure to obtain coverage quickly. Don’t rule COBRA out; but, be aware COBRA, while convenient, is usually a higher cost solution. 7. Cut out unnecessary extras. A reduction in your household income means the need to start a reduction in your expenses. This will help you maintain a budget and your lifestyle balance and hopefully, will prevent delving into accumulated savings. Review the preliminary budget you drafted, and find areas where you can cut back, such as meals out, clothing purchases, premium cable television, or vacations. This may be the most difficult process for your family to follow as budget cuts start to bite, but it will help your financial stability until you land a new job. 8. Call your Creditors. Write letters to your mortgage lender, credit card companies, car lender, utility companies, phone service, and banks where you have other secured or unsecured loans. In an effort to help people through this recession and bad economy, many lenders have adopted special programs to help laid-off workers through financial hardships. Call
your creditors to determine if revised payment options are available and be sure to follow up with a letter to the appropriate loss mitigation departments. 9. Consider odd jobs and new streams of revenue. Sometimes cutting back is not enough to steady your finances after job loss. Look for new ways to get revenue, such as turning a hobby into a small business. You can advertise services around your neighborhood for work such as handyman, lawn care, or junk removal. Also consider selling any excess household goods you no longer need. You can set up a yard sale or advertise in a local classified site, such as Craigslist. Losing a job can take you by surprise and have a material impact on your short term cash flow and long term net wealth. Adjusting quickly to your new situation is crucial to stabilizing your finances. Until you’re successfully employed again, poor financial decisions could jeopardize your financial survival and impact your well-being for years to come. Early decisions and key moves can make the difference between financial survival and financial disaster. G
Graceful
OUTINGS
TEAM UP Holiday Party
Mike Conley and the infamous Grizz celebrated the holidays with children of the Memphis Grizzlies mentoring program, TEAMUP. Children of all ages gathered in the FedEx Forum front lobby and were entertained with an array of different games, music, and of course food! KIPP Memphis Collegiate School, Power Center Middle and High School, and Soulsville Charter School were in attendance. Every child had the chance to snap pictures with Mike Conley and receive an autograph. Some even received an early Christmas gift as door prizes. All in all, it was a good night for kids to be kids and enjoy the holidays.
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Graceful Outings
TEAM UP Holiday Party
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Graceful Outings
BLUFF CITY FUNERAL DIRECTOR’S & MORTICIANS ASSOCIATION
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hanks to the efforts of the Bluff City Funeral Director’s & Morticians Association (BCFDMA), students enrolled in mortuary sciences at Northwest Community College have additional scholarship opportunities. According to President Eddie Hayes, Jr., BCFDMA raised $5,000 for scholarships at its Second Christmas Gala Scholarship Fundraiser December 16, 2013 held at Moments Banquet Facility. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell presented a proclamation recognizing the services and contributions of the BCFMDA, which, according to BCFDMA member Debra Mabone, dates back to the early 1900’s. “The Bluff City Funeral Directors and Morticians Association was founded in 1930 to promote the advancement of black undertakers and funeral homes. The organization formed a conglomerate to deter white undertakers from taking black business. Additionally, the organization was created to gain recognition of blacks as business men and for them to acquire equal rights for ambulance service.” For more information about BCFDMA, contact Eddie Hayes, Jr. at 901526-3264.
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ajExperience
Quality Technology
Tate Computer Systems inc. 3800 Hacks Cross Road memphis, Tn 888-235-8226
Sylvester Tate President/Ceo
Manage IT Services Remote Data Back-Up Network Design & Services Computer Repair Telephone Systems Copier Lease Mobile D Device Services
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Book Corner Incorporate Reading into Family Activities Your child will be more likely to develop a love of reading if you spend time reading as a family. Start a family reading night which demonstrates you value reading. While your child reads his/ her own book, you read a novel, magazine, or the newspaper. A weekly reading night where all family members are participating will become something your child looks forward to.
WAYS TO ENCOURAGE your child to read by CHRIS BOYD
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eading is a critical skill for children to learn, and by building the fundamentals of reading at an early age, your child can be prepared for success at school. As a parent, there are a variety of things you can do to encourage your child to read. By following a few simple steps, you can help lay a strong foundation for your child’s lifetime of successful reading.
Help Your Child to Develop a Love of Books One of the most important steps to encourage your child to read is to help him/her develop a love of books. Take frequent trips to the library together and allow your child to look for books that he/she finds interesting. At home, read the stories out loud, even after he/she learns to read. The time you spend together can create an extremely important bond while continuing to encourage reading development.
Talk About Your Experiences Talk about your experiences. Your experiences will stimulate your child’s curiosity and will peak his/ her interest in reading. If you are out with your child, talk about the things you do and see, as this can help enhance his/her understanding of different concepts and can assist in developing a good vocabulary. Asking questions that involve critical thinking or creativity are especially important. When your child doesn’t know the answers, encourage him/her to read and locate the answer so you can discuss later. Make Reading Fun With all the high-tech toys and gadgets on the market, convincing your child that reading is fun might be a tall order. However, as a parent, it is your job to get your child excited about reading. Try using reading as a special reward, and if your child has been good, allow extra time for reading before bed as a reward. Investigate reading programs that may exist at the local library, as these programs can help improve reading skills while connecting children with peers who enjoy reading. By encouraging your child to read, you help him/her to better succeed in school while developing a love of books and a creative mind. More importantly, the time you spend together reading will create important memories lasting a lifetime. G
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Book Corner
GRACE GREAT READS!
Four imaginative, inspiring books for middle grade readers and wonderful choices for Young Reader - Read Aloud time. OUT OF MY MIND
NAVIGATING EARLY
Eleven-year-old Melody has a photographic memory. Her head is like a video camera that is always recording. ALWAYS. And there’s no delete button. She’s the smartest kid in her whole school-but NO ONE knows it. But, Melody is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk. If only she could speak up, if only she could tell people what she thinks and knows. Most people-her teachers and doctors included-don’t think she’s capable of learning, and up until recently, her school days consisted of listening to the same preschool-level alphabet lessons again and again and again. Being stuck inside her head is making Melody go out of her mindthat is, until she discovers something that will allow her to speak for the first time ever. At last Melody has a voice . . . but not everyone around her is ready to hear it. From multiple Coretta Scott King Award winner Sharon M. Draper comes a story full of heartache and hope. Get ready to meet a girl whose voice you’ll never, ever forget.
This odyssey-like adventure of two boys’ incredible quest takes you to the Appalachian Trail where the boys discover pirates, buried secrets, and extraordinary encounters. At the end of World War II, Jack Baker, a landlocked Kansas boy, is suddenly uprooted after his mother’s death and placed in a boy’s boarding school in Maine. There, Jack encounters Early Auden, the strangest of boys, who reads the number pi as a story and collects clippings about the sightings of a great black bear in the nearby mountains. Newcomer Jack feels lost yet can’t help being drawn to Early, who won’t believe what everyone accepts to be the truth about the Great Appalachian Bear, Timber Rattlesnakes, and the legendary school hero known as The Fish, who never returned from the war. When the boys find themselves unexpectedly alone at school, they embark on a quest on the Appalachian Trail in search of the great black bear. But what they are searching for is sometimes different from what they find. They will meet truly strange characters, each of whom figures into the pi story Early weaves as they travel, while discovering things they never realized about themselves and others in their lives.
by Sharon Draper
COUNTING BY 7S by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Willow Chance is a twelve-yearold genius, obsessed with nature and diagnosing medical conditions, who finds it comforting to count by 7s. It has never been easy for her to connect with anyone other than her adoptive parents, but that hasn’t kept her from leading a quietly happy life . . . until now. Suddenly Willow’s world is tragically changed when her parents both die in a car crash, leaving her alone in a baffling world. The triumph of this book is that it is not a tragedy. This extraordinarily odd, but extraordinarily endearing, girl manages to push through her grief. Her journey to find a fascinatingly diverse and fully believable surrogate family is a joy and a revelation to read. This is an intensely moving middle grade novel about being an outsider, coping with loss, and discovering the true meaning of family.
by Clare Vanderpool
FLORA & ULYSSES by Kate DiCamillo
Ten-year-old Flora Belle Buckman and her superhero squirrel, Ulysses, are the stars of this middle-grade adventure novel by the award-winning, best-selling Kate DiCamillo. The book begins with a tragic accident that has unexpected consequences. Flora changes as she discovers the possibility of hope and the promise of a capacious heart. Incorporating her characteristic rich vocabulary, humor, and heart, the author delves into new territory by weaving comic-book elements into the narrative. Overarching themes of loneliness, hope, and love are key, intermixed with humor — Both narrative and visual will have readers laughing out loud and cheering the story’s unforgettable characters. G JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 61
NOW SERVING
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Growing Up with Grace
GROWING UP WITH GRACE Jeremy Bronner 11th CAREER CHOICE: Civil Engineer
I would change our community by making it more diverse. We would be able to show other communities that you don’t have to be the same race to get along.
GRACE® Magazine believes our youth (our future) should be heard. GRACE® Magazine’s Chris Boyd visits Central High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and asked – This year, if you could change something in your community, what would it be?
Brian Carr, II 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Computer Programmer or Engineer The desire for students to achieve and accomplish their dreams. For students & all youth to have greater aspirations than the average person.
Martin Butcher 12th
CAREER CHOICE: International Business I would hold various community services projects, such as, clean-up day and have influential people talk to the community about benefits of being more involved throughout the community.
Arlisa Dillard 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Forensic Scientist The homeless situation. If the city could stop spending money on unnecessary buildings and build homes or apartments for the homeless that would probably keep the crime down. JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 63
Growing Up with Grace
Quincy M. Foster, Jr. 12th CAREER CHOICE: Business
If I could change one thing in my community it would be the Graduation Rate and the performance standards in Shelby County Schools. The school system is giving us too many unearned grades and not enough college preparation and we aren’t working for things.
Candace Grisham 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Pediatric Neurosurgery Socioeconomic discrimination in schools.
64 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
Christian J. Hall 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Farmer, Entrepreneur, Special Forces, Adventurer I would provide activities and opportunities that challenge youth and give them an opportunity to develop innovative moneymaking projects.
Randi Holder 10th CAREER CHOICE: Veterinarian
If I could change anything in my community, I would change the way people live. There would be more homeless shelters and items would be cheaper for the families who are not as wealthy as others.
Growing Up with Grace
Harold Howard 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Mechanical Engineering – U.S. Army Something I would change in my community would be community/school involvement as it relates to students and encourage students to become involved in activities in their community/school, church, outside organizations, etc.
NaKeisha Isom 12th CAREER CHOICE: Pediatrician
The cleaning of my neighborhood. I would have more people take the time to beautify their surroundings by picking up trash and debris in their neighborhoods.
Lam Huynh 10th CAREER CHOICE: Doctor
I have only lived in the USA for 2 years. I would not change anything in my community at this time. I’m enjoying my life here.
Margaret Jackson 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Business and Culinary Arts I would reduce the crime rate. People don’t feel safe in their own homes.
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Growing Up with Grace
Maya Jackson 10th
CAREER CHOICE: Physical Therapist or Nursing If there is one thing I could change in my community, it would be to improve involvement in political decisions. Voting for decisions that could affect the community is very important. Once I am able to vote, I plan to participate in as many voting polls as I can.
Jasmine Johnson 12th
CAREER CHOICE: Real Estate Investor / Entrepreneur -The Poverty Rate I would change the number of people who are unemployed. My dream is to create stable jobs for people to work. - More sources of support for small businesses - Provide more free financial education
Sandee Khammavong 9th
Taylour Lang 10th
CAREER CHOICE: Pediatrician, Nurse, Teacher If I could change something for my community, I would like to help and teach people to have hope, faith and trust. I really love working with kids and maybe one day I can do something big for kids who have disabilities. 66 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
CAREER CHOICE: Lawyer
I would like to see the youth more involved in the community in a positive manner. There are programs that emphasize the importance of leadership and education, and more students should take advantage of these opportunities.
Valid until January 10, 2014
Growing Up with Grace
Marcia Morrow 11th CAREER CHOICE: OB/GYN
I would change the poverty rate, because more and more people are becoming homeless and aren’t able to provide for themselves. I’m grateful for all I have and would like to share it with others.
Bryce A Oselen 11th
CAREER CHOICE: Therapist or Nurse The environment and the way teens are raised. I would love to make the community cleaner and I’d love for teens to build each other up and encourage one another to reach their goals. The community just needs more love.
Ly Nguyen 10th CAREER CHOICE: Doctor
I’ll change the way students look at their future. Instead of saying, they don’t care about school work; I want them to look at school work differently so they can have a better future.
JerMilton Woods 12th
CAREER CHOICE: NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball Coach Develop positive interactive attractions in the city for youth that do not have an admission fee. We work on our craft every day, but there are times we want to do something fun. I want to buy a large amount of space with athletic and sports activities, amusement park and water park for the City of Memphis youth. Coach Pastner shared a quote with me that I live by, “Stay the course. Keep after it!” JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 67
• Reg ularly Scheduled Weigh-Ins; • Reg ularly Scheduled photographs (Before/Progress/After); • A uthorizing all publishing rights to GRACE® Magazine; and, • Commit to attending the scheduled sessions and following the suggested meal plan. Assumption of Risk, Waiver of Liability, and Indemnification. Submission of GRACE Transformation Challenge Entry Form acknowledges that there are risks associated with your participation in the GRACE Transformation Challenge and that you agree to the Power Life Fitness General Terms Agreement and Member Usage Agreement, including but not limited to the Assumption of Risk, Release of Liability, and Indemnification provisions. By entering the GRACE Transformation Challenge, each participant agrees to follow these Official Rules and to release, discharge, and hold harmless GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness, and their affiliates, subsidiaries, and agents, together with the present and future officers, agents, employees and representatives of each of them, from any and all responsibility or liability whatsoever for any property loss, damage, personal injury, or death, in connection with the prize(s) and/or any person’s participation in the GRACE Transformation Challenge.
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No Guaranty of Weight Loss or Body Transformation. Individual weight loss results vary and participation in the GRACE Transformation Challenge does not guarantee weight loss. Factors such as diet and genetic makeup, overall health, or physiological differences may influence weight loss. Please consult with your physician before beginning any new nutrition or exercise program. General. No entrant shall use any artificial or inappropriate means of weight loss or alteration in body composition in order to win the Challenge including but not limited to liposuction, weight loss surgery or other similar procedures. All interpretations of these Official Rules shall be made by GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness, whose decisions and interpretations shall be final and binding. GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness reserves the right to cancel, terminate or suspend this GRACE Transformation Challenge or any part of this Challenge for any reason. GRACE® Magazine and Power Life Fitness reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it reasonably suspects or believes to be tampering with the entry process, any part of the GRACE Transformation Challenge itself, or the award mechanism by any means or suspected to be acting in violation of these Official Rules or any other term or condition of the GRACE Transformation Challenge set by Power Life Fitness. If Power Life Fitness determines, in its sole discretion, that unforeseen events have compromised the integrity or viability of the GRACE Transformation Challenge, Power Life Fitness reserves the right to void the entries at issue, and/or terminate the relevant portion of the GRACE Transformation Challenge, including the entire GRACE Transformation Challenge, and/or modify the GRACE Transformation Challenge. The GRACE Transformation Challenge is open to all GRACE Magazine readers. Employees of GRACE Magazine are not eligible to participate. All participants must have obtained the age of 18 by January 1, 2014. G
GOING GRACE RECIPES
YOU GO!
GRACE® is hungry for your favorite dish for our 2014 GRACE® recipe search.
Do you know an Amazing Woman or Man that is impacting the community and others?
Email recipes to: recipes@gracemagazine.com
If so, nominate him/her for a feature article. Email to: yougo@gracemagazine.com
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lest PiC
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Andre & Azaria Boyd visit the Greensboro Four, 2008
Feature
LEST WE FORGET...
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by MARSHA GOINS
s we approach Black History Month, we should all reflect on from where we have come; the road we took while coming; and where the road is headed. When I think of the road we took, I immediately think of those who trod the road which forged the Civil Rights Movement. I think of the strength, tenacity and courage of those at the forefront of the Movement. There are so many heroes of the Movement, many internationally noted, many unsung. However, there is one group of heroes that falls somewhere in the middle . . . the Greensboro Four. Although we all recognize the Greensboro Four photograph and their now-famous lunch counter photograph, we aren’t all aware of their story. So, Lest You Forget, I offer you a memory of the Greensboro Four. On February 1, 1960 four young men, who were students at A&T College (now North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University) walked into the Woolworth in Greensboro, NC and set off the largest and most successful student inspired protest in the world! That day, they changed the world as it was known in 1960 and sparked student protests around the country. These young men, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Joseph McNeil and David Richmond are now known as the Greensboro Four.
Before that day, students had protested the inequalities at various “white-only” facilities. Woolworth and Kress were targeted because they would only serve whites at the lunch counter. Students and community formed picket lines outside the stores. On the eve of February 1, 1960, the Greensboro Four got together to a discuss a different approach other than picketing Woolworth; but, rather they would dare to actually sit at the counter; ask to be served; and, refuse to leave until they were served. The next day, they changed the world! This year, as President of the Greensboro Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I had the pleasure of extending an invitation to the living members of the Greensboro Four to permit our Chapter to celebrate and honor their historical and significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. As part of the celebration, they participated in a Round table discussion at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum (formerly Woolworth — site of lunchcounter sit-in). Present at the round table were Joseph McNeil, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr. (now known as Jibreel Khazan) and Chip Richmond, son of David Richmond (deceased). Below are some of the excerpts from their discussion. PANEL: How did you decide to actually sit at the counter? McNeil shared that David (Richmond) was the catalyst in the decision to do the sit-in because his motto was “Let’s Do It.” David JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE 71
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was a superior athlete and he had no fear. His nickname was ‘Hoppergrass’ because he moved so quickly. Khazan added — one night David jumped out the second floor window of Scott Hall (the dormitory where they all lived and where all the plans were made for the sitins) and when he hit the ground, he jumped up, like a grasshopper, and ran off! McNeil: But, David was the planner. PANEL: What were your thoughts while planning? Khazan: I was the ‘observer’ and the others were ‘geniuses’ so I just watched them. On the night of Jan 31, 1960, we voted 3 to 1 to sit down at the Woolworth counter the next day. I was the one ‘No’ vote! I told Joseph (McNeil), ‘Man these guys are going to get me killed!” I called my parents and asked if the four could come and speak with them. I thought this would save me because my parents would get me out of doing this. I knew my parents would say ‘NO’. We didn’t go to my home; so I called. After explaining what we planned to do, my mother asked, “if you go to jail, who are you going to call?” I responded, “I don’t know!” My mother said, “Don’t call me!” In the end, I was fooled because my parents agreed to support the group’s decision to sit in. I still didn’t want to go because of my grades – I wanted to keep making A’s but by the time I finished, this, I decided if I got an “’F,’ it was for Fear and Friendly!” PANEL: How did you know it was the right thing to do? McCain: I have a story about the “Big Lie.” My parents would lie to me [about unpleasant things] but my grandparents never would. My grandparents’ advice was “Be a full participant in this young democracy of ours; there are certain things you were required to do. You were required to get, not 72 JAN/FEB 2014 | GRACE
just an education, but a superior education! Believe in the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. Adopt the 10 Commandments as your Code of Ethics. Respect Adults. Treat People Well. When you do things for people, do them in a way that they don’t even know it. If you do all these things, you will be a full participant in this democracy of ours and you will be respected with all the rights and privileges that everyone else has.” McCain continued saying he believed in this life’s philosophy because his parents and his grandparents said so. He worked to live his life by this advice. But a funny thing happened on the way home from the picketing, I realized that nothing had changed and both my parents and grandparents had lied to me! I understood they lied because they loved me but I knew there had to be a better way to live and changes had to be made. This is what led me to decide to participate in the sit-ins. PANEL: How did you feel when you were at the counter? McCain and McNeil responded (in unison): We were angry. Both spoke of the anger they felt before and during the sit-ins. They were not angry at people, but at the injustices they were seeing daily. They voiced that the night they planned the sit-in, it was decided that this must be a non-violent sit-in and if a person could not do this without violence, then they did not want him to participate. PANEL: When you think about Woolworth, what comes to mind?
McCain: “Possibilities and Roots to Success. I remember that tough times don’t last, but tough people do. I think about this little Woolworth building and if I was able to overcome this, My God, the problems today are just duck soup!” PANEL: How did you feel at the end of that day and what were your thoughts?” McNeil: “Tired.” We were frustrated about how to manage the boycott and how much work it would take to ensure there was always enough people present to have an impact. McCain: “You need faith and you must be willing to make the sacrifice. This is what separates those willing to be successful in the fight”! McCain: “Nothing exceeds itself like success. You build on the small successes and they become part of your personality. Soon if you believe that and you live that, you are fixed in the position that, as Lady Macbeth said, “You Can’t Fail!” Richmond (David’s son): My father had so much heart. I believe that is why he was able to participate in the sit-ins. Author’s Note: When I extended the invitation to Jibreel Khazan, he responded that “Your Chapter is the first Black Greek Organization to ever reach out to us.” I was saddened by this. It is incredible to me that during a 53 year span, we were the first. This is why it is extremely important to recognize the Greensboro Four among the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. They sometimes are forgotten. G Editor’s Note: Since the writing of this article, we have lost one of the Greensboro Four… Mr. Frank McCain, Sr. passed on January 10, 2014. GRACE® Magazine mourns the loss of this legend and prays for his family.
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Anniversary
51 years of marriage
TC & Roberta Heard January 4, 1963
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Graceful Brides
1 Geston Luellen & Ashley Hardaway Earnest McDaniel & Lametrias Hall
Graceful
BRIDES Photos by CLARENCE NEAL
Ricky Noid & Ivory N. Brown
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Harry Parks & Kandra Beard
Graceful Brides
Pamela Joy Criner- Hodges & Reginald Hodges Photo by CYNTHIA THYMIS
Heather Heard and Andre Davis Photo by LYNDSI METZ AND KATHY O. LOFTON
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Amazing Grace
In Pursuit Of Greatness…
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reat is a word being used frequently and freely about Nelson Mandela. Since his death, the world has been immersed in the story of Madiba’s remarkable transformation from rural tribesman into a luminary of the struggle for liberation, from prisoner to President. We have been mesmerized by the magic of his infectious smile and humor, the miracle of his forgiving spirit, and the marvel of his inspirational leadership. He was bigger than politics, but absolutely intolerant of injustice. In his own words, the “ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities” was an ideal for which he – unlike many “good” men - was prepared to die. By any definition of the word, Mandela defined greatness. I’m clear that at the dawn of this new year, some of us are just celebrating that we’re no longer stuck on bad! It was only because of the grace of God – God’s amazing grace – that we’ve made it into 2014; saved, sane, survivors. Yet, allow me to encourage you now to not even stop at good. Never forget that we have a great God, who has made a way for each of us to go not only from bad to good, but to go – as Jim Collins writes - from good to great! The Bible records a word which the angel Gabriel used in reference to the soon-coming Jesus -“megas” We find the same Greek root in the prefix of megahertz, -bytes, -pixels, -bucks, -deals,-doses, -cities and –churches. The word means “huge” or “great.” So, our great God gave us His Son, Jesus, a great God-man, who performed many great acts. But, what’s more amazing is that Jesus pronounced that even greater things than He did, shall you and I do! Indeed, we at St. Andrew encourage our young people to excel, to achieve, to succeed. In the stewardship of our lives – our resources, our capabilities, our gifts – we strive to be committed, effective, and obedient. We work assiduously to offer powerful peer support and fellowship to women, seniors, singles and young adults in our midst; to meaningfully engage men, and to keep marriages strong and vibrant. We believe we can all achieve greatness. I feel a shaking in the Spirit, I feel a beating in the Spirit, I feel a pressing in the Spirit, preparing me for greater… My greater is coming! - Jekalyn Carr, “Greater Is Coming” The life of Mr. Mandela, however, reminds us that greatness is not about us, alone. Rather, we are all called to do great works, to ameliorate the conditions around us; to “proclaim good news to the poor… to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives… to comfort all who mourn.” And, as Isaiah further proclaims, we are also called to “rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated… (to) renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.” By God’s amazing grace and favor, St. Andrew A.M.E. Church is helping our South Memphis community to again become a great place of health, wholeness and wellness. Now, children can read in a library within walking distance full of donated books, a farmers market provides an oasis of fresh fruits and vegetables in a food desert, a revitalized city park offers a safe haven and refurbished green space for physical activity again, over 110 families occupy new, affordable, housing and 330 children receive the highest quality childcare, pre-K, and elementary education – right in their own neighborhood. We rejoice in doing those “greater things;” in ushering in a rebirth, a renaissance, a new beginning for our community, a community again in pursuit of greatness. I don’t know what greatness means for you. Greater authority over your life or your finances? Greater significance in your sphere of influence? Perhaps it will also mean greater impact upon those around you or in your community. The death of President Mandela has reminded us of what greatness looks like. God’s amazing grace reminds us daily of both the great plans God has for us, and the great expectations God has of us. So, I’m praying that this will be a mega-year – a great year – for you. Let’s covenant together to make 2014 a year in which we’re all in the pursuit of greatness; for ourselves, our families, our congregations, and for those in the communities around us. Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D. is the pastor of St. Andrew A.M.E. Church, with his wife, Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson. He is also the Public Health Policy Advisor to the Mayor of Shelby County, and a former Commissioner of Health for the State of Tennessee.
by REV. KENNETH S. ROBINSON
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The Front Porch is here to help those struggling with depression, anxiety, risky drinking behaviors, stress and the challenges of life. If you suspect that you or a loved one is at risk, visit livingwellfrontporch.org or give us a call at 901.762.8558.
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â€œâ€Ś with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended." Nelson Mandela
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Color of Friendship; Candace Mooneyham, Artist