September Issue by The Chocolate Voice

THE CHOCOLATE VOICE

Informative, Insightful ,Inspirational Celebrating Voices that Sweeten The Soul

Special Fall Issue TM

Inside:

TCV interviews Comedian

Carlos Mencia

One on One: Actress CiCi Foster

Spotlight:

Kevin and Tanisha Hamilton

Fall 2010 www.thechocolatevoice.com

Publisher & Managing Editor Gwen Pierce Contributors Lula Hunter Ernie McCray Dr. Shirley Sprinkles, Ph.D. Becky Hopkins Artress Cornmesser Ambassador Regina Brown, Linda Brown, Brittany Ciccotti, Casey Sutton, Robert Quintana Hopkins, Felix Green and Dr. Lawrence Wood, M.D. Interns: Shyana Brown Ceara Harris Marketing Director Becky Hopkins 951-956-0537 P.O. Box 211234 Chula Vista, CA 91921 Graphic Artists Shanda Pierce Monica Maxwell Jaime Hernandez Ad Sales - Tucson Seterria Kittrell 520-572-1376 Photos of Carlos Mencia courtesy of Shearer Public Relations For Subscriptions and Back Issues Call 619-507-9327

The Chocolate Voice P.O. Box 50614, Tucson, AZ 85703 619-507-9237 Fax: 619-421-8187

news@thechocolatevoice.com The Chocolate Voice is Published monthly, January through December.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher, its staff or advertisers. ISSN 1944-7698

THE CHOCOLATE VOICE

Fall 2010

4|Remarks from the Publisher 5|A Call to Service By Dr. Amanda Goodson 6|Church Love By Linda Brown 7|Genealogy Today By Felix Green

Photos of Kevin and Tanisha Hamilton courtesy of Kevin Hamilton Studios

8| Restaurant Review 9|Table Talk: By Artress Cornmesser

22| Walking in my Shoes By Ambassador Regina Brown

10|Why is That? By Dr. Shirley Sprinkles

24| Did you Know? Lama Choyin Rangdrol

11| It’s Poetic An Ode to President Obama

26| Using the Power of Music Q&A with Kevin Hamilton

12| Profound Thoughts Of a Newborn

29| Please Don’t Feed the Pigeons By Dr. Lawrence Wood, M.D.

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WE’RE BACK! Is it me or does it appear that time is seriously moving way too fast? Just like the speed of lightning, summer was just here and now we’re on the heels of the fall season. Speaking of summer, did anything exciting or different happen for you during the summer of 2010? For me, I decided to stay close to home in Southern California which sometimes is just as refreshing as taking a trip, especially when you live in a city as beautiful as I do. I must admit, San Diego is an extraordinary city with a host of great venues for music. If you’re like me, the art of music seems to always put me in a great place emotionally. With all that’s going on around the world it’s important that we do whatever it takes to keep us in good spirits and if that means listening to music, I say, bring on the tunes. In my family music has always been an important part of our life. One reason is possibly genetics, considering that it’s understood that our claim to fame is that we share the same bloodline as one of the great blues musicians out of Texas the late Sam “Lightnin” Hopkins, a cousin on my paternal grand father’s side. The second possibility is environmental, thanks in part to the fact that my parents owned a record store business for 20 years or more, where we spent many summers listening to Mom play music on a record player for her customers to listen to before deciding to purchase. Sort of like iTunes, but without that personal touch. Just a thought, ‘times really aren’t that different, are they?’ As a child at times it felt unreasonable when my parents would make us practice music versus hanging out with friends but, like most things in life we learn to appreciate the value of having those experiences which become teachable moments. After all, without exposure to music, I would not have learned to appreciate the music choices I have today which include; classical, a little bit of country/rock, HipHop, Gospel, Jazz, NeoSoul, Rock, R&B. I’ll say it again I love music! On that note, here’s a shout out to my parents who made it possible for my siblings and I to explore our talents by enrolling us in music (my sisters and I took piano,

violin and flute and my brother the guitar and drums) lessons. After a brief hiatus in this month’s issue, we’re delighted to share a refreshing story with The Chocolate Voice readers on the Powe family of Tucson, Arizona. As parents Israel and Sharon make it a priority to encourage each of their three young children, Carissa, Levi and Aliyah to learn to play a musical instrument. Not only are the children flourishing musically, they aren’t doing too badly academically either. The Powe’s dedication to their children is one of respect and admiration and, it’s truly an honor to have this incredible family apart of this month’s publication. I also had the distinct pleasure of talking with a talented musician and entrepreneur also out of Tucson, Kevin Hamilton. Similar to the Powe children Kevin learned to appreciate music at an early age. And now, he’s on a mission to share his musical gift throughout the southwest region through music education. It truly has been a busy summer for us. We had the opportunity to interview comedian Carlos Mencia, who’s not only funny but contrary to harsh criticism we found that he’s an overall nice guy. We we’re also introduced to working actress and entrepreneur Ci Ci Foster, who gives us the inside scoop on making it in entertainment in Los Angeles. As for Los Angeles, I’ve spent a lot of time in L.A. since this is the city my daughter calls home. A great city by the way if you can get past a major obstacle, traffic, ugh! It’s all good though, especially since my daughter and her friends love to try out new restaurants. In fact, a couple of weeks ago while visiting her in L.A. she invited me to come along and boy oh boy, I’m so glad she did! Check out how we dined and managed to cure our sweet tooth at two popular eateries in La La land.

On a sad note, we lost one of our faithful supporters Mr. James (Sonny) Battle of Pennsylvania who passed away on July 7th, 2010. Sonny was not only a faithful reader of the Chocolate Voice he encouraged his family to become apart of the Chocolate Voice family. We are forever grateful to Sonny’s friendship and he will truly be missed. We dedicate this issue to the memory of: James Sonny Battle March 4, 1932 – July 7, 2010

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” ~Author Unknown~

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Church Love —Linda Brown Vice President Black Storytellers San Diego Inc.

My friend came to church today. She came in and sat right in front of me, her two grandchildren were with her as usual and she had a visitor, or so I thought, but when they called for visitors to stand he didn’t. Prayer time came and as the minister prayed, my friend Maryann began to cry, she did not have a tissue and I noticed her gentleman visitor fumbling in his pockets to find something to give her. I managed to get the ushers attention and they gave her a tissue. Maryann’s visitor/friend scooted closer and put his arm around her, I expected a friendly pat that said to all who were looking, there, there it will be alright. What I saw was a hug that told the onlookers I must protect her, She then looked up at him with a look that needed no words, her smile and his sitting taller and getting closer said it all. I could not stay focused on the sermon I was so busy watching them watching them getting closer and her cuddling in the curve if his arm taking full advantage of our back pew seating. (Thank God I had already heard the sermon during early service) I was so glad my grandchildren were singing and not sitting next to me disturbing me and I watched this church love unfold , the rest of the congregation would have to turn their

heads and pretend they were expecting a late arriving guest: but all I had to do was sit, enjoy and appreciate. As the service progressed I heard the pastor say it is time to come to the alter and pray; and my friend Maryann walked up to the alter. I waited to see if her visitor/friend was hooked enough to go to alter call with her. I watched Maryann standing in line waiting for her chance to kneel and pray as her visitor/friend talked to her grandchildren and remained in his seat, well a few minutes longer anyway and then I saw Maryann smile at him. They did not kneel at the alter together but her visitor/friend seemed to know that his presence was required there. The pastor has preached and it is now offering time, I walked up to the front of the church to give my offering and as I walked back to my seat, I couldn’t help but smile at the two of them, the way she just settled into the curve of his arm as if she were that rib that God removed to make her and she was returning to her original position surrounding his heart. Church love, Church love, Church love, it sizzles, it smolders and it is beautiful.

By Felix Green

Genealogy Today

Along with the development of DNA, more and more people have become interested in Genealogy. Genealogy is usually an old folk’s hobby and I’ll use myself as an example. Earlier in life I was too busy trying to make a living to worry About my ancestors. I was just happy to be alive. 1989 in Tucson, Arizona it was, that I attended my first “Family Reunion”. That reunion left me with more questions than answers and Questions that no one present could answer. The reunion book listed names of relatives by generations but I could not develop any family trees. At least I had a starting point. When I was 10 years old, I spent nearly a year in Oakwood, Texas with my maternal grandmother and grandfather. My youngest uncle and aunt were still at home so I got to know them well. My grandparents were sharecroppers and My uncle taught me the ways of farm life. We had no running water and no electricity but as far as I knew, life was good. My uncle taught me how to hunt, plow the fields and pick cotton. That year and the experiences made a lasting impression on my life that I will never forget. You can imagine how my friends in the big city of Tucson looked at me when I tried to explain how to Kill a chicken, pick the feathers and cut it up. Remembering that year helps me to understand how my ancestors lived and in what conditions. It helps me appreciate my life and to understand that it could be much worse. I have not been able to identify my ancestor’s port of entry into the States but I was able to locate the Pierson(s) and Barnett(s) in Texas in the 1880 Census and continue forward until the present. Slavery contact has not been made but it has been an interesting journey. The research is time consuming and I have reached the point that further research requires travel to certain points of interest. Travel to Texas to visit county seats and comb through original records and documents.

In 2004 I joined The San Diego African American Genealogy Research Group and as of 2009 I was elected president. Needless to say, we enjoy our research, learning from each other and helping others. Some members of the Group have bridged the Slavery gap and gone further. One member’s great-great grandfather was a Buffalo Soldier. There are members who have traced their ancestry back to their slave owners. It proves easier to identify the slave owner when the freed slaves carry the same last name (or similar name) as the owner. This is not the case in the majority of situations. My research is on-going and SDAAGRG meets at the Malcolm X Library on the second Saturday of each month. For further information, email me at: felixg12342@yahoo.com

Al’s Barber Shop “It pays to look well” 8am-6pm Tuesday-Saturday Closed Sunday & Monday 861 E. Grant Road Tucson, AZ 85719

622-2276

Restaurant Review

By Marianne Campos

Tart Blending southern down home cooking, with a hip LA flair, Tart provides a comfy and artistic environment for its patrons. With creative combinations like hot water cornbread flapjacks, and ‘crawfish spring’ rolls, the restaurant puts a contemporary spin on classic dishes. They offer a great tasting variety in their lunch, dinner, and especially brunch menus, which I consider a personal favorite. Right across the street from the Los Angeles Farmer's Market, Tart is also close to the uber-trendy Grove shopping center. Adding to the already spectacular surroundings, is the incredible family friendly staff, and if you’re lucky, you may even get a personal introduction to Tart from a cool hipster guy named Tarik, the manager.

Big Man Bakes

In the heart of downtown LA, past the traffic and commotion, rests a charming little cupcake shop. Imagine a moist, savory, red velvety smooth cupcake, combined with just enough cream cheese frosting that in one bite, you experience a taste of heaven. Big Man Bakes couples the home-cooked dessert of mom's kitchen with the ambience of a quaint and trendy downtown eatery. The 6’5 Big Man behind the bakes is William "Chip" Brown, a former med student who began selling his cakes to colleagues at the hospital where he worked. Not only could he master the chemistry in a lab, but he could also perfect the chemistry of a flawless cake. His sideline treats grew more and more in demand, word spread, and what was once a fun-friendly hobby, turned into an appealing business feeding everyone from students to top Hollywood agents. The menu consists of 5 different flavors including coconut, carrot cake, double chocolate, old school, and my personal fave red velvet. The cupcakes come in 'mini' and 'XL' sizes, perfect for the dieter, and also someone who wants to indulge. So, if you’re looking for a classic and simple yet delectable American desert, Big Man Bakes is the place to go.

Table Talk

Years later I came across an article in the food section of our local paper that read-AT LAST EASY POLENTA WITHOUT STIRRING I rushed right out for a bag of Golden Pheasant Polenta meal, and there on the back was the recipe to be baked in the oven, just like the paper said. No stirring until the arm went numb. No watching it boil. No sweat. Polenta is truly a good tasting food, and so versatile. It ranks right up there with grits at our house now. Enricos Easy Polenta 1-cup polenta 1-teaspoon salt 3 1/4 cups luke warm water 1-Tablespoon butter Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place ingredients in buttered 8in square pan. Stir with a fork until blended. Bake uncovered for 50 minutes. Run a fork through it and bake 10 more minutes. Serve with butter and parmesan cheese, or with your favorite meat or vegetable sauce..........serves 6

by Artress Conrnmesser It often happens that a nation of people will identify themselves as a distinct culture by their traditional foods. They say people in the north of Italy love polenta so much that they often eat it twice a day while the weather is still cool enough to enjoy it. Polenta is Italian that translates as cornmeal mush. Being from Alabama, I never gave a thought to eating dishes made from ground up corn except for grits and various breads, until my husband took me to a high end restaurant with leg of lamb and polenta on the menu as the special of the day. Oh! What a wonderful dish. The Polenta was just as tasty as the lamb. On our way out, I asked the cook about it while complimenting his cooking skills. “Nothing to it.” He said. “If you can boil water, then you can cook polenta.” He was right, but what he failed to tell me was how long Artress Cornmesser has written three books. She I would have to cook it, stirring continuously. Making lives in San Juan Bautista, CA polenta once was enough for me. I made do with the ready made kind which is not half as flavorful, but at least was already cooked.

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Lula Hunter and Gwen Pierce

Music + Academics = Talented Children For quite sometime it has been brought to our

“It felt more like a chore. With my kids I try and (The Chocolate Voice’s) attention that we must talk make it fun, and we found that music has been a with an extraordinary family called the Powe’s. Well, wonderful asset in deveconfidence academically.” as it turns out the name Powe came up again recently during a conversation with a family friend, who attended an event with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra where the Powe children performed. After witnessing the talented children in action, our friend called and said with a strong sense of urgency, “Here’s the phone number of the Powe Family please call them.” With that said, the call was made to the family home where we reached the mother of three extremely talented children and smart children. Over the phone mom Sharon’s warmth and candor had teacher written all over it especially when talking about her children, which makes perfect sense as to why she chose to home school them. During our conversation, the down-to-earth Sharon Powe who is originally from Montreal Canada with family roots in St. Vincent (her parent’s birth place) Trinidad, she touched on her musical background, what brought the family to Arizona and how music has Their son Levi age 9 who plays the cello is studying preplayed a pivotal role in her children’s education. algebra and was a winner in the Tucson Civic Orchestra’s According to Powe her introduction to the world music competition, where he came in first place in the of music came at the early age of seven. She explains, junior strings division, and was invited to play with “At that time my family couldn’t afford a piano so I first them in April at a concert in Green Valley, Arizona. learned to play the accordion. By the time I reached age In January, Carissa age 11 who plays the violin was a eleven, we got our first piano.” A modest Powe only winner in a music competition with the Tucson Civic says humbly that she plays mostly for church. She also Orchestra, and was one of two soloists featured in a admits to not wanting to practice as a kid because it just concert with the Arizona Symphonic Winds in May. In October 2009 she won in the Tucson Symphony wasn’t fun.

Orchestra’s young artist competition and was invited to play with the orchestra for their Celebrate the Future concert, which was held this past May. The youngest Aliyah, age 8, also plays violin. The Powe children started lessons beginning around ages 3 and a half to 4 with the Suzuki method, which allows for an earlier start on sized instruments. The children are trained in classical music. Sharon’s husband, Israel Powe of Sacramento decided to relocate the family to Tucson, Arizona in December of 1999 because the area appeared more family friendly and moves at a much slower pace than California. Sharon on the other hand admits that for her, living in Tucson took a little getting used to because there are only two dominant cultures, White and Hispanic in comparison to her upbringing in Canada which was quite diverse. The lack of diversity is a concern but not a deterrent, Israel and Sharon Powe make it a point to give their children plenty of encouragement particularly in their genre of entertainment where most of their counter parts are either White or Asian. The Powe children have performed for various events and organizations around their community thanks to proud dad Israel, who recognized the extraordinary talent of his children and encouraged his wife to contact a woman by the name of Rochelle Magee who was in charge of the Juneteenth concert in 2008. Rochelle put the children on the program and as they say, the rest is history.

many events just to name a few; The AfricanAmerican Read In Chain, the Tucson Musician’s Museum, The Dunbar School Reunion, the Rayben (Raytheon Black Employees Network) Gala, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Southern Arizona Black College Community Support Group, the NAACP, the Tucson Urban League, the GMWA (Gospel Music Workshop of America), the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra Just for Kids concerts

and

other

events

churches

and

church-related

including, events

many

throughout

Arizona, Florida, California, Texas and Canada. Last year, the Powe’s had the esteemed honor of being invited to play for the Mayor’s council on the occasion of the 100th year anniversary of the NAACP. What Sharon wants parents to know is, “there is a direct benefit to understanding music in areas such as math, reading and personal development and, she is proud to report that all three of her children read at the high

The children, now are considered local school level and have tested in the 99 percentile of the celebrities and have been asked to perform at Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) Test.”

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By: Ceara Lyric Harris

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Back To School Tips

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!""#$%&'() ''' by â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ernie McCray

s there anything in the world as cool as just "cooling it," you know, kicking back in your comfy jeans, and that nice fitting tee-shirt you found in Borrego Springs, some broken in running shoes, acting and feeling like you just know you're cool. Talking about a little respite from rising everyday and entering into Twilight Zone like scenes wherein wee-minded antithis and anti-that beings scurry about frightened to death of life, all caught up in their "America Love it or Leave It" proclivities and philosophies.You spend a few moments in their world and you just have to "cool it" whenever you can because when you get back up on your feet again the "antis" will be there, right where you left them, ready to make your day at, say, something as innocent as a rally for dignity and decency on a bright and sunny day in May called May Day.Oh, they were like stoned bantam roosters, that day, the antis, chests out, nowhere near as far as their bellies, crowing nonsense they'd heard on right wing radio, so numb, so compassionless, so willing to jump on a white horse (poor pony) with a Lash Larue whip and round up all the Latinos and ship them out on a rio to Mexico. These folks will never forget the Alamo. But who writes their material, I want to know? I mean what's with a slogan like: "Why in the Hell Should I Have to Press 1 for English?" So you can understand the message, Fool! Or this: "What if the next illegal immigrant is carrying a nuclear device?" Then you'd better corra le, bato (loosely translated: run, man). And don't let the atomic bomb hit you where the good Lord split you, to paraphrase a saying of my day. Or this: "Why does liberalism want to erase our language, borders and culture?" Was I asleep when liberals discussed such desires? Who among us would dare try to erase our language with English Only attitudes firmly in place in an atmosphere where speaking Spanish is seen as a disgrace? And I don't think it would be the least bit easy trying to erase the border in the midst of our society's "Let's build a fence equal to the Great Wall in China" mentality. And what, pray tell, is our culture: thinking so much of ourselves that we can't relate to anyone

else, even going to the length of seeing some as less than ourselves when all they're trying to do is just survive, just stay alive, just do exactly what anyone would do who hasn't given up on life as an enterprise? But these Modern day Jim Crows couldn't put as much as a dent in that colorful May Day event as they were absolutely drowned out and blown away by bronze colored dancers who came along the way, moving to the powerful drum rhythms and haunting melodies born in ancient times when the "Americas" was a horse of a different color and kind. Following them as far as the eye could see, were hundreds of gentes, mostly Latino, all having marched from San Diego's Chicano Park, a place of the soul and of the heart, a place filled with murals depicting art that captures the spirit of what we were all basically seeking that day: peace and human understanding. Why should such pursuits be so demanding? I reflected on such a beautiful sight the other night, nursing a little red wine, cooling it with a couple of friends of mine from Sun & Moon Vision Productions at a fund raising party for one of their latest productions, Youth Out Loud 2, a sequel to an earlier documentary film they did a few years ago that chronicled the struggles in the lives of young gays and lesbians in their schools. Why a sequel? Well, gay people have a rather large following of "antis" so LGBTQ children still face and have to tolerate way too much harassment and bullying during a typical school day. But, as we were all locked into our best "cooling it" postures and stances that night we didn't get into any of that to any large degree, knowing that there will be plenty of time for that the next day because the next wrong to be righted is always a mere day away. Unless, of course, you're cooling it that day. Like I'm cooling it today.

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Striving for Perfection Comedian Carlos Mencia keeping it real in life and in comedy by Gwen Pierce

“There is no such thing as perfection although one day I wish to attain perfection in comedy. I know it will never happen but it!s my goal.” Carlos Mencia He’s been criticized on the show South Park for not being funny, starred alongside two heavy weights in the entertainment business, Academy award winner Forest Whitaker and Emmy award winner America Ferrera (Ugly Betty) on the film Our Family Wedding and, in anticipation of his August 1rst performance at Viejas Casino in San Diego, the talented and humble actor talks with The Chocolate Voice about facing harsh criticism, his career in comedy, SB1070 and more.

TCV: I read somewhere that you were an Electrical Engineering Major. Why the switch to comedy and when did you realize that you were funny, who told you? CM: I still don’t think I’m funny. It’s my morbid curiosity for life. I’m not that center of attention kinda guy. Some people are just naturally funny. Let me give you and example, I’m up on the latest gadgets and when I’m with friends I might say something like, can you believe this stupid thing, (new IPhone) I can’t hold it with my left hand it cuts out. You know what’s weird is that you can drop it in heat and water and everything else yet, they forgot to ask a left handed to guy to make a phone call. I would say simple things like that and friends at work would start cracking up and say ‘you should try comedy.’ TCV: Who are your comedic influences, who inspires you?

CM: I’m different – I didn’t have any dreams of doing comedy, my goal was to get out of the ghetto and survive. I come from Honduras an immigrant family. Friends would tell me that I was funny but becoming a comedian, just didn’t make sense to me. In fact, if you’re at a Mencia Family reunion everybody is funny, you’ll most likely be laughing at everyone but me. I am the least funny one in my family.

TCV: What’s your ideal role and do you prefer stand-up or movies? CM:Stand-up is amazing, there’s never a go between – thoughts are personal. Films are someone else’s words. TCV: South Park made fun of you awhile back for not being funny, how do you handle such harsh criticism? CM: You know criticism comes with the territory. Every successful person wakes up in the morning and faces some sort of criticism. Unfortunately today there are sites on the internet qand television shows designed to laugh at others pain. My goal is to focus on the fans and where I come from. In fact, I could be in Honduras right now. On the other hand, constructive criticism is the basis for change. There is no such thing as perfection although one day I wish to attain perfection in comedy. I know it will never happen but it’s my goal. TCV: You just performed in Tucson, Arizona on June 26th, what’s your take on SB1070 in Arizona? CM: I address the SD1070 situation in my shows, it creates arguments among people who disagree on how to fix the problem – I make it funny instead of it being political. I understand my role – I don’t take my role serious. TCV: I really enjoyed your last film Our Family Wedding. I don’t recall ever seeing a film that dealt with the Latino and African American relationship how did that role come about? CM: I received a phone call from Fox who offered

me the role and when I found out I would be starring along side Academy award winning actor Forrest Whitaker I nearly crapped my pants. I really enjoyed working with him; he’s such a humble guy. America needs to see more films that explore everything, that’s why stand up is so much fun. But, the cool thing about movies is that many people can come out and see them versus stand-up where you go to a venue like a casino and it hold only so many seats. TCV: What do you say to up and coming comedians who want to get into the business? CM: Put on a thick skin. You’ll get some good and bad advice, make sure to look at the individual you are with and ask yourself is this the best I will find? Be honest with yourself. Be okay with who you are, it is what it is. You have to choose to be happy everyday. TCV: Your performing at Viejas Casino on August 1rst what do you think about San Diego? CM: There are two cities in the world that I adore more than life itself and that’s San Diego and Chicago. San Diego is the perfect size – perfect location and beautiful beaches. The people are the perfect speed – not crazy slow, just a great mix of people. I noticed that now National City has a bunch of Filipinos, I’m not sure how that happened? Overall, San Diego has a good mix. And, I love Downtown, the Gaslamp. TCV: What’s next in store for your career? CM: Everything! The beauty of being a comedian is that Eddie Murphy and Richard Prior set the tone that led to comedians transitioning into a variety of roles. For me, it’s more television, more movies and of course more stand –up. 23 years in the business is a great journey and I’m grateful to be living in that moment.

!"#$%&!'((')*+$,-./0'$1+*20 ! This month I am walking through the shoes of another and her shoes went to Haiti

Are you familiar with the ads on TV to text a number and donate money for Haiti? If you listen to the full ad only a percentage of your money these agencies receive, goes to the cause they advertise. I don’t know about you but if I send money for Haiti I want it to go to Haiti. So this summer I helped a team of 25 go to Haiti. The catastrophic earth quake that hit Haiti, January 12, 2010, measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale caused the deaths of 230,000 people, leaving at least one million homeless including thousands of parentless children. These children captured the heart of Pastor Chad Johnson during his visit in April 2010. Determined to make a difference he shared his vision with those around him and Soncire Brown signed up with joy. Already a part of CMJ Ministries she signed up for the Joshua Project Summer of Service Internship Program aka JPIP and that is where this spectacular summer journey begins. The Joshua Project was a six week internship/mentoring program that provided leadership and development training where interns/mentees participated in a summer of service. The training was held in Phoenix, Arizona and gave the opportunity for the interns to participate in a mission assignment where they would serve in revival services, prisons, hospitals, orphanages, on a reservation, and/or participate in community service projects. Those who chose Port Au Prince, Haiti of the three mission locations available, had to raise $1200.00 for their ticket and accommodations, obtain a passport and fundraise. Soncire traveled from Tucson to Phoenix weekly to be a part of the JPIP. Five weeks into the program she was told

that she may not make the trip due to her not having the funds for her ticket. Soncire took this in stride and continued to work hard for the program. When asked “Why were you compelled to go to Haiti?” she replied after seeing the photo’s Pastor Chad brought back from his trip in April, I knew I had to help. Her faith led to victory when her ticket was cut two days before departure to Port Au Prince. !""#$%&'()*&+,$-&*+"&-".,)*,*#/$&*+"&",(*+&01,2"&3,1)"-& stired up compassion. She assisted in bringing hope, joy, smiles and love to the multitudes. The team had an intense schedule including daily street ministry and nightly youth rally’s bringing them hope of a better tomorrow with the theme “I AM the Future” written also in Creole, the language of the people, on t-shirts. They visited a hospital that was destroyed and the patients were moved to tents. They went from tent to tent praying for the people. Their prayers brought comfort and peace to the patients especially one young girl who was blind. Unable to see that here parents were no longer with her she constantly cried out for them, but they had died in the quake. Due to the huge number of sick and injured Doctors or nurses only see the people once every few days so the assistance of the team was well received by the staff. Next they visited an orphanage distributing candy and stuffed animals - played hand games, soccer, and shared loving kindness with the children. The team brought a balance of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual support. Soncire assisted in hand writing invitations to the locals. These invites shared the love of God and encouraging words to the receivers. One woman named, Wilda lost her husband who was buried under rubble for 2 days. She spoke with him on her cell phone and he wanted to hear Gods word and she prayed with him, when the rescue team reached him he was to far gone and he died. Wilda was in deep mourning when the team got there but their prayers helped her healing begin. The +1%)&,$-&4/."&)+"&("3"#."-&'44"-&+"(&5#*+&4#6"7&& Soncire’s visit was more than words can describe. Since one picture is worth 1000 words, these will have to tell the rest of the story. This team is in it for the long hall and 26

yes, Soncire desires to return with the next team. If you want to help Haiti or other area in the future and want to know for sure it will go to those you choose please contact me RS3@Ambassadorbrown.mysite.com or place a comment at Ambassadorbrown.mysite.com guest book or write me - P.O. Box 17594, Tucson, Arizona 85731 and we will connect you with one of several teams helping Haiti and others around the world. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; !"#$%%$&'()*('+,-)./0112,3)'4/)5)60712,3)8$2/2

Did You Know…? Lama Choyin Rangdrol is the only African-American teacher of Buddhism recognized by the First Conference of Tibetan Buddhist Centers in North and South America, !"#$%#%&'()'*+%',-.!%'"-'/0bet and attended by the Dalai Lama. Recently, he was honored as a special invited guest to the Dalai Lama’s teachings on “World Peace through Inner Peace” in Miami, Florida. Prior to entering the dharma stream, Lama Rangdrol worked as a licensed psychiatric technician for thirty years and Drama Therapist in departments of Psychiatry including UCLA Neuropsychiatry Hospital, USC University Hospital, and numerous acute psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics serving severely mentally ill, developmentally disabled, and homeless populations. A few months ago, I had the opportunity to sit down at a hotel in Del Mar, CA with the founder of Rainbowdharma.com, a global on-line spiritual community devoted to mental health issues. The native New Yorker who was reared in Pomona, California spoke candidly with The Chocolate Voice 1("2*' 32&&1&+14516' ,24' !"#$%471*0"#' .47*' (%81#' with a breakdown of the meaning of LAMA. He explains that; LA = Light and MA = Mother light.

LAMA

: I feel that it’s important to make our people aware of our treasured history. I’ve always been interested in creating a better life, with dharma, I found this possible. I did not want to live or die as an angry black man and, it’s liberating. African Amer0!1#7' +1$%' +1&' &0-.!29*)' 0#' 1:1;%#0#8' -4"5' *+%' 0#<2-

The Chocolate Voice: What are you referring to when you say Black Dharma and why do you feel it’s important to bring this information to the African American Community?

ries of slavery. In applying Buddhism, which is a mental state not a culture I found enlightenment not just for me but also for my people. African Americans are unaware of the great legacy that is apart of our heritage. We’ve not been taught nor told of our connection to India. Through Dharma teachings, I’ve learned that Africans were among *+%' .47*' =%"=9%' *"' ="=291*%' >#&016' ?+09%' "#' =09840518%@' I witnessed Buddha statues that resembled our people. The Chocolate Voice: Can you explain why Buddhism is considered outside of the scope of traditional African American faith teachings? Lama: As African Americans we’ve always struggled with alternative choices. My father comes from Trinidad and I was baptized as an Episcopalian. We’re originally from New York but moved to Compton where we spent time in Catholic, AME and Church of God in Christ. So you see, I have been exposed to other faiths. My experiences have taught me that, it’s evident that many of our people are lacking in the knowledge that Buddhism embraces all religions. A151'B1#8&4"9'+17'12*+"4%&'.$%'("";7@'*:"'5270!'19(257@' is a signed music artist with BMI and his recent documentary, Festival Canceled Due to Heavy Rain has been ac!%=*%&' 1*' .$%' .95' -%7*0$197' 1#&' 07' *+%' :0##%4' "-' *+%'C9"ha Accolade Award from the Honolulu International Film Festival. From the city of Oakland he received the Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Award for community awareness. To learn more visit http://www.rainbowdharma.com

Using the Power of Music to Inspire and Uplift the Southwest By Gwen Pierce

On June 23rd, literally days before his 40th birthday party/CD release party held at the Tucson Convention Center Leo Rich Theatre, we (TCV) caught up with the multi-talented Dallas native Kevin Hamilton, Founder of the Southwest Soul Circuit and Garden Level Studios in Tucson, Arizona for a quick Q & A by phone right before he heads over to the convention center for practice. TCV: Let’s begin talking about your musical background, what instruments do you play and, when did you first discover your love for Music? KH: Well, as a child around 5 or so I used to perform in front of company and family, (you know how we do it – he says with a hint of Texas twang), then at around the age of 12, I started singing in public which included the youth choir at church which I really enjoyed. Where I’m from in Dallas, the music scene is very rich. I attended the Dallas School for the Performing Arts, with Grammy winning neo soul artist Erykah Badu. As a matter of fact, the bass player (Madukwu Chinwah) on her hit featuring rapper Common, “Love of My life” played with us on our Southwest Soul Circuit tour. As for me, I play keyboards, bass and I am a classically trained vocalist. I am blessed with the ability to sing in Italian and Liturgical Latin. Like a lot of teens I was trying to find my way and, I found that playing music helped to get me through those rough times. I was able to communicate my struggles through music. In other words, the power of music helped me to cope with life. TCV: Are there any other members of your family with musical talents? In other words do you believe that your love of music is genetics or, environmental? KH: My mother wasn’t what you would call a singer, she sang a little in church. My family likes the quartet style but that’s not my style. Most of what I do now is through my own interest. However, I did find out that one of my uncles owned a record label during the sixties.

TCV: I read somewhere that you studied Opera, tell me about the transition from say gospel to opera style of music or visa versa? KH: Actually, I studied music at Tennessee State University where I served as the Assistant Director for the University Choir. It wasn’t until I transferred to the University of Arizona that I gained the opportunity to perform opera. In my opinion, music is music – Luciano Pavarotti has soul. In terms of gospel, I sing a lot of Daryl Coley. And, Tinika Wyatt was one of our back ground singers in the Southwest Soul Circuit. I believe that all it takes is having the heart and soul for Music. TCV: Can you expand on the Southwest Soul Circuit? KH: Remember the Chitlin Circuit back in the day? Well, although times have changed for the better obviously, Southwest Soul Circuit is similar in a sense that our mission statement is to uplift, inspire and entertain the southwest underserved communities through music and community service. Some of the cities we entertain include, Dallas, Phoenix, San Diego and Tucson. TCV: Your facebook page lists NeoSoul artist Musiq Soulchild as one of your favorite artists, in your opinion what makes him stand out for you? KH: What makes Musiq stand out for me is that his music style integrates the old school with the new. He doesn’t compromise his vocal ability. He stays true to his vocals. But I’m an old school music lover. I enjoy Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway. In fact, last year in a musical tribute produced by Black Poet Ventures. I had the opportunity to portray Donny and my wife Tanisha played Roberta Flack. Let’s just say that, portraying Donny was surreal. I spent hours studying his mannerisms and old recordings. My wife has a wonderful voice. I’m trying to talk her into recording a CD. The writer was

amazed by our performances! TCV: What brought you to Arizona? KH: I moved to Tucson in 1999 through my job, Raytheon. Since my wife and I are both from Texas (She’s from Denton), moving from Nashville to Tucson was definitely a culture shock. Prior to moving to Arizona I spent five years in the Air force as an Avionics Technician, for fighter aircraft. While in the military I had a tour in Japan where my music allowed me to perform to sold out audiences. I have to admit that, music caused me a lot of problems while I was in the service. TCV: How so? KH: Generals would want me to play for their events, and my superiors would say, “No you can’t.” So, the General would pull rank and I would ultimately end up playing for him anyway. The problem with that situation was that I would eventually have to go back to work and face my direct supervisor. (He laughs) TCV: Tell me about Garden Level Studios which you and your wife Tanisha are the Founders?

KH: At Garden Level Recording Studio we offer classes through studio Kevin Hamilton that includes private voice, piano, drums, bass and general musicianship. We also offer summer programs that teach kids ages 13-21 how to write, sing and record in a safe and, professional environment. We teach goal setting and the value of working together. TCV: I’m so glad we had the opportunity to finally chat, just one final question how would you best like to be remembered? KH: I want to be known as one who raises the bar. I want people to remember me as a person who is most interested in touching people’s heart and soul, a compassionate person who’s willing to help them through life. For more information on Kevin Hamilton, Garden Level Studios or Southwest Soul Circuit call (520) 8291129 or (520) 988-5859 or visit: www.studiokevinhamilton.com www.gardenlevelstudios.com www.swsoulcircuit.com

African American Male Intergenerational Conference By LeMar Slater The 2nd Annual African American Male Intergenerational Conference , sponsored by the Facilitator Group, under the dynamic leadership of Ambrose Brodus, was held May 21st and 22nd at the ECC Campus. Conference co-sponsors were Educational Cultural Complex (ECC), Neighborhood House Association and Neighborhood Unity Foundation. The Conference theme was “From Boys to Men: Understanding Our Legacy and Responsibility.” This conference was an initiative to mobilize the African American male population, their families and others in a community wide collaborative effort to address the enormous problems confronting African American youth today. Additionally, the conference continues to promote the creation of a community atmosphere that encourages preventive action to achieve this goal. The keynote speaker, Michael Brunker, Executive Director of the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA, gave a powerful address as he highlighted issues facing African American youth today both in San Diego and nationwide. He sent out the call for ‘lifeguards’ who will stand up and help our youth in this day and time. Friday night featured a celebration of excellence in the African American Community. Unsung Heroes were recognized for their tremendous contribution of service to others. The Facilitator Group’s definition of an “unsung hero” simply characterizes an individual or group as one who consistently provides an essential support service that enhances the education, health, moral, and spiritual

development of the recipient. Unsung Hero Award recipients were: Tracy Morris of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., Robert Robinson of The United African American Ministerial Action Council and Stefan Wilson of Overcoming Gangs and Beyond. Lincoln High School graduating seniors Dimitre Allen and Kijontray (KJ) McClay and Morse High School ’s Dominique R. Brewington each received book grants of $300 to assist them as they pursue higher education. The audience enjoyed talented musical selections by accomplished recording artist Jason Brown (Acoustic Guitar/Saxophonist), and uplifting message of the greatness within each of us from Tommy Ford, acclaimed actor from film, stage and television shows Martin, and New York Undercover. The Saturday session included a highpowered panel which featured Dr. John Ringgold, Bethel Baptist Church , Cecil Steppe, Retired County Chief Probation Officer and Donta Pride, Attorney at Law. The panelist addressed the topic, “African American Males and the Criminal Justice System.” Well over 150 people

attended the twoday conference. Morning solution finder workshop leaders included Dr. Joe Fulcher (Education), Leon Brooks and Ashton Fulcher (Roles and Relationships), Dr. Nketi Forbang, Stefan Wilson and LeMar Slater (Health). Afternoon workshops were lead by Deacon Rodney Collins and Deacon Ernest Taylor (Faith Based and Community Partners), Jeffrey Jackson (Economic Stability), Leonard Thompson, III, Dejuan Hoggard, and guests (Black Images In Media). Conference attendees also enjoyed a guided tour of the state of the art Complex Skills Center , newly constructed on the ECC Campus by Dr. Bob Parker. The Black American Political Association of California, San Diego served as conference as hosts. The lunch hour was an opportunity to continue the morning discussions over delicious dining catered by Mr. & Mrs. Martin and Delois Bellamy’s Catering. The Facilitator Group will be carefully coordinating efforts to publish each of the novel and innovative solution developed in the workshops. Results of the conference survey will also provide valuable insight on daily realities for African American males in San Diego . This document will be made available to the entire San Diego community. For more information on this conference or publication, please send inquiry to aamiSD@gmail.com or contact via phone at (619) 665-2595.

Please Don’t Feed the Pigeons By Lawrence Wood

There is a recent campaign in San Diego that encourages people not to feed the bums; bums being the homeless men, women and children that wander our streets. I would guess that some very clever person or committee thought they would borrow from the signs one can see at the zoo and other local attractions. “Please don’t feed the birds”, the signs plead. The idea, of course, that if the public will stop feeding the birds they will go away. Where? Who knows and who cares? At least they’re not hanging around your lunch table waiting for you to leave so they can get to the scraps. The birds are annoying. They can leave a mess behind- pun intended. I certainly don’t feed them intentionally. So now we come to the homeless. They are like those annoying birds, especially like the pigeons in New York City, where I grew up. In the crime novel, Among Pigeons (available at www.lulu.com), the perfect metaphor for the homeless is the pigeon. People don’t like either. They are annoying, dirty, hovering scavengers. More comparisons can be made, but it ends when one tries to make

the homeless person equivalent to an animal-a bird. It’s easy not to care about a bird. They don’t have names. You can’t have a conversation with a bird. If they don’t return, who would miss them? No one has a relationship with a bird, so the clever twist on the phrase that has become “Don’t feed the bums” bumper sticker, is a call to ignore my fellow human being. The bumper sticker may be amusing to some, very serious to others and for me, just plain mean. Yes, I know, the homeless person can be difficult to see, or befriend, or feed, or give a buck, but they share a humanity with me that no animal can come close to replicating. The first rule of war is to see your enemy as non-human, call them names and then you can kill them and hate them, without remorse. The Regional Task Force enumerated the homeless population at 7300 in 2004. Last year it was 7900. This year it is 8500! What’s happening? Have more homeless moved to our area or have economic conditions created more homeless. I suspects it’s the latter and some of those with a cute bumper sticker may be closer to being among pigeons than they want to admit. Who would they want to help then? So to those that I may offend, I ask for your forgiveness if you see that I give a bum some food. I’m sorry if it displeases you, when I see another human that needs a hand and I give him a dollar. And I hope that the supporters of the “Don’t feed our bums” campaign don’t get mad at me, when I try to build them a home. James, the half-brother of Jesus said, “If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘depart in peace, be warmed and filled’, but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?”

My name is Lawrence Wood and I am John’s voice. (www.iamjohnsvoice.com)

Gray Relating to Green by Ernie McCray Sitting around trying to clear my mind of all that's going on in a troubled world I found a picture of me almost as gray of hair and beard as one can be. Green leaves of spring adorned the trees that stood behind me and in my glasses I could see the indiscernible reflections of the children who sat listening so appreciatively to my poetry. These were students at Einstein Academy, a school literally vibrating with positive energy and I view this picture and the gathering as an expression of how the world should be, older generations, the gray, sharing the wisdom of their age with children, the green, who in their innocence, represent what hope there really is on the planet. Especially if their schools, as Einstein does, approaches them with a mission like "Teaching our children today to advance shared community tomorrow." Don't you just love it? However, the big problem is our children will, generally speaking, mimic what they see and what they see is not enough schools like Einstein and not nearly enough grownups role modeling how the world should and could be. They see us sending our teenagers off to "shock and awe" with barely a peep. They see us relegating some people to "less than" like: "homos" who are abominations who should keep who they are to themselves; "illegals" who murder and rape and don't give as much as they take. Oh, our children can turn such madness around based on how over and over again I've found up close and personal how full of promise their thinking can be. Like a few years ago when I was helping some fourth graders create performance pieces around "making a better world" which was their idea, by the way. In our rap session, in preparation for what we were going to produce, the Iraq War came up and a girl

blurted out "War is stupid" which brought on a hearty "Yeah!" from a couple of her peers and a 60's style "Right on!" from me. Soon into the conversation I had to correct a misconception most of them had about Osama bin Laden. When I told them he was from Saudi Arabia and not from Iraq a little girl immediately blurted out "Then they didn't do anything to us" to which nearly every member of the class copped an attitude of "Then we shouldn't be fighting a war, huh?" And I couldn't have erased the "You got that right" expression off my face if I had wanted to - and I tear now, in this moment, just thinking about that day, how the children have the wherewithal to save the day if we just showed them the way. The more opportunities we give them to think critically the less our downright societal foolishness will get in the way and does it ever get in the way. That came across to me in a significant way a few years ago when I was having the greatest time with some fifth grade friends of mine. We were engaged in a little intellectual play about stories of human struggles for dignity before improvising scenes from pursuits of such hopes and dreams. With ease they captured the likes of Cesar Chavez or Martin Luther King or Gloria Steinem. In a quick run through under the heading of “struggling communities” women got their due. The disabled were included too. The elderly. The homeless. And then someone mentioned Hillcrest, our city's gay community, and, in the very next moment, the mood in the room changed like the tone shifts in a stage or screenplay. Wild snickers and unflattering innuendos towards gay people assaulted the hope that had filled the air and replaced it with despair. When I could finally take in a breath I spoke to them about wonderful gay people like

Toni Atkins and Christine Kehoe who have made major contributions to our city and state - and a magnificent gay man named Bayard Rustin who masterminded the historic March in Washington DC in 1963. Although I was shocked at their sudden behavior I wasn’t the least bit surprised. I know what their ears have heard and what they’ve seen with their eyes. They were mirroring and echoing the grownups in their lives so it’s no wonder that the acceptance of gay people in our "Heterosexual Superiority" society is so hard to realize. But, in a farewell to me, they performed a piece about Langston Hughes and they pulled it off so enthusiastically and to honor it for its pure artistry I didn’t “ask” and they didn’t “tell” if they knew Langston Hughes was gay. The fact that they embraced his spirit restored hope in me and made my day. Just today, a beautiful sunny Friday, a week from the last week in May, I sat rapping about the world with some of the brightest and cutest little first graders that exist in the Milky Way. We talked, among many things, about problems at our borders, about people trying to come to our country to work so they can keep themselves and their families alive. They were so wise and they left me with these words: "There's got to be a better way to solve this problem than calling them names. It's not nice to call people names." Is that not ever so sane? My, my, my. I left them thinking: if more old gray beards like me and grown ups in between can keep our children from getting caught up in the stifling small minded atmosphere that perpetuates the most hateful of our society's attitudes, they can keep hope alive. Color me gray, relating to green - until the day I die.