ONYX Magazine May/June 2019

Volume 9 – Number 39 MAY/JUNE 2019

TO SIR, WITH LOVE

DOTING ON OUR BROTHERS

+ BLACK MUSIC MONTH

FUNK, GRAMMYS AND VIOLINS

10

YEARS LATER

HEALING AFTER FRUITVALE STATION

SHAQ ATTACKS HEART DISEASE

R.L. BURNS

CONSTRUCTING A LEGACY OVER 25 YEARS

$3.50 onyxmagazine.com

contents 6

Publisher’s column and masthead

7

Elevate: Vision

8

Black men need a safe space, too

10

Local Legends: The Beat Down Band

12

Bethune-Cookman University fundraising campaign

14

Five answers from a leader: James Brown

16

Learn, grow, connect at the Library

18 Arts/Entertainment: George Clinton 20 Education: FAMU law student leads top group 22 Black Music Month 23

ONYX Profile: Jeffrey Redding

24 Inspiration: Disney Dreamers Academy 26 Health and Wellness: Shaq Gets Real about heart disease 29 SAGE: Aging at home 30 Technology: Tech trends to peep in 2019 31

ONYX Profile: Leah Flynn

32

Money Matters: Millennial spending habits

34 Good Read: Lyrical Notations

40 FEATURE

Constructing a Legacy R.L. Burns, Inc. Celebrates 25 Years of Building Florida Photos of Robert L. Burns, CEO of R.L. Burns, Inc. by Grafi James

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36 Hope: Oscar Grant’s family healing after Fruitvale Station 39 Business: Be well at work 40 Cover Story: R.L. Burns celebrates 25 years of building in Florida 42 Florida Scope: Commissioner Nap Ford honored 43 Music Notes 45 Real Estate: Five reasons to move in the summer 46 Women’s Fashion: Sunglasses 47 Men’s Fashion: Sophistication 49 On the Quad 50 ONYX on the Move 52

Community: 2019 Women on the Move

54 Wine and Food: Bourbon

FROM THE PUBLISHER PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Richard “Rich” E. Black MANAGING EDITOR D. Shenell Reed, M.B.A. EXECUTIVE STRATEGIST Lena Graham-Morris EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Maria Barnes

RICHARD “RICH” E. BLACK

ASSOCIATE EDITORS Gayle Andrews Laura Dorsey Sharon Fletcher Jones

MAY/JUNE 2019

DESIGN DIRECTOR Jason Jones

Family, Summer is right around the corner and pretty soon, we will be planning our road trips. No trip would ever be complete without music—R&B, Blues, Gospel—genres founded by black people. From the days when music lifted our souls and led us to freedom, to crossover styles that unify us as a country, music has touched our souls. We dedicate this issue to Black Music Month as we say goodbye to George Clinton, the Funk Master who is taking his final bow into retirement, introduce you to local talent and much more.

A leader who moves to his own beat is Robert L. Burns, the founder and CEO of R. L. Burns, Inc. The construction management company has been involved of some of the most important projects in Florida. In this issue, he talks about how he and his team overcame obstacles to still be around 25 years later. We also take time share what is on men’s minds.

Shaquille O’Neal is fighting heart disease; James Brown of CBS sports educates on leadership; and in New York, one group offers a place for brothers to hang out and talk about everything from health to wealth. Don’t miss these stories.

Speaking of wealth, did you know that millennials have far more debt than any other generation; but they also are much better at saving? Check out what the younger citizens have to say about spending.

We remain committed to you, our readers, our community as we bring you articles that entertain, inspire and inform. Be blessed.

Rich

INTERNS Ruelle Fludd Daniel Londono BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Matt deJager MANAGEMENT ASSISTANT Chelsey Rouse CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gigi Brooks Jasmine Browley Scottie Campbell Magda Chery, D.O.

Patricia Brown Denis Lena Graham-Morris David Hall Jimmie Lenz

Deidre “Dee” Parker Kevin Washington, Ph.D. Bailey Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brion Price Grafi James ONYX ADVISORY COMMITTEE Deidre Parker, Chair Michelle Tatom, Immediate Past Chair Bob Berryhill Dr. Lavon Bracy Bryon Brooks Marva Brown Johnson Hon. Mable Butler Yolanda Cash Jackson Dr. Cynthia Chestnut James Clark

John Crossman Gary Hartfield Tony Hill Alma Horne Rodney Hurst Ann Jenkins Connie Kinnard Larry Lee, Jr.

Brenda March Nancy Port Schwalb Margaret J. Thompson Gail Thomas-DeWitt Hon. Alan Williams Carla Williams Dr. Samuel Wright Lady Dhyana Ziegler

FOUNDERS

Lester and Lillian Seays ONYX Magazine is published by ONYX Communications and Media Group, Inc., Address: P.O. Box 555672, Orlando, Florida 32855-5872. Phone 321-418-7216. Subscription rate is $19.95 for six issues. For subscriptions and notification of address change, contact ONYX Magazine at the above address or e-mail us at info@onyxmagazine.com. Letters to the editor are encouraged. Copyright 2018 by ONYX Magazine.

All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the writer or interviewee and not necessarily those of the publisher. Manuscripts, photos and art should be submitted with a self-addressed stamped envelope. The publisher does not assume responsibility for any materials not submitted in manner advised. Unsolicited materials are not subject to payment from ONYX Magazine.

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ELEVATE

Vision Greater than eyesight, but no greater than insight

By Kevin Washington, Ph.D.

Without a vision the people will perish Proverbs 29:18

Adobe Stock

V

ision is essential to human existence. Without vision, life has little or no meaning. You do not need eyes to have vision. The blind musical genius Stevie Wonder has profound vision, as evidenced in an interview. The interviewer asked him how was he able to play multiple instruments and create all the wonderful music. He said he visualizes in his mind what his music would sound like and what the instrument would feel like and then he would be able to create beauty with music.

This is an indicator that vision is greater than eyesight but no greater than insight.

We must know the vision from within has limits, however our belief system often erects barriers that can be an obstacle to profound sight. Dreams and visions break through the human barriers we create.

Visions are essential to spirit/soul (life) as air/oxygen is essential to our body and lungs. Vision is necessary for full life. They keep us alive when all else has failed us— when the money is short and the abuse is high. A vision of a new reality sustains our life. They will keep us going when we do not feel like going on.

Likewise, enslaved Afrikans were able to survive the horrific mistreatment by the oppressor because they maintained a vision of what generations later would live like in freedom. They were able to conceptualize ways for survival that were unthinkable. They did so in part because they held a vision of ‘my descendants won’t have to endure this.’ They saw freedom internally even though their external environment provided no hope of a liberated reality.

Many of us are the manifestation of their vision. Vision kept them alive when it may have been easier to die. If they did not have the vision then African Americans would not exist.

Action Steps • Wake early and go to bed late to satisfy a vision calling. Vision of new possibilities often sustain to keep on keeping on in a bad situation.

• Remain ever aware of the vision snatchers. Those who have lost their vision (the blind) or those who have lost the faith to pursue their visions can often become a psychological drain on one with vision. They do not know what

good is and they have tired from the pursuit of better.

• Stay committed to the vision. Do not get upset because others fail to buy into your visions/dreams; rather it is imperative that you believe in your own vision to live it. The value of the dream will be determined by the dividends that it yields.

When we execute and succeed others will know that the vision has worth.

• Settle in with optimism. Remember, there is no failure in falling; but failure occurs when you fall and remain down.

If you are clear of your goal and direction, falling simply becomes a learning experience as to how to not fall the same way again.

• Stay Up. No matter what happens, keep your head up and press toward the realization of what has been placed within your heart and spirit. Success is assured if you pursue your passions with a profound belief that what inside of you is possible. Know that believing is seeing.

Kevin Washington, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist and academician, is the head of the Sociology and Psychology Department at Grambling State University in Baton Rouge, La.

ONYX MAGAZINE 7

BROTHERS

Black Men Need a Safe Space, Too

The Gentlemen’s Factory hosts a weekly podcast.

Could their opening up shift the culture of health in the black community?

By Magda Chery, D.O.

T

he Gentlemen’s Factory is a workspace and community founded in 2016 by Jeff Lindor in response to a “trend seen with men of color growing in isolation but not in community.” Lindor, the founder and CEO, saw this company as a means to encourage men to “learn, build, and connect with each other while closing gaps in health, wealth, and economics for black men.”

In an interview, Lindor shares how profound conversations are not hard to come by at the Gentlemen’s Factory. Discussions on trauma, racism, and its ramifications in adulthood, especially for current and future fathers raising young boys of color are examples of the tough discourse occurring in this workspace.

United through a shared lens, members of the Gentlemen’s Factory speak openly about their experiences as black men while

taking part in membership programming that enhances opportunities to promote growth and overall health.

In January, the Gentlemen’s Factory did what it does best: push the envelope by hosting an open forum discussion on mental health with its members and the community.

The topic, “Get your Mental Health Checkup—Doctors Orders,” was presented by Dr. Magdala Chery, a board-certified internal medicine physician and assistant professor, along with DeRonn Kidd, from the Mental Health Service Corps, who serves as a ThriveNYC Initiative speaker and facilitator.

A forum of uncensored dialogue on how mental health presents clinically in black men, transformed into a safe space for men of color to open up about their struggles with suicide, depression, and anxiety.

Globally, we can learn a lot from the Gentlemen’s Factory. The power of community is most certainly highlighted as this resource club provides an outlet, a healing ground, and a shared voice to one of the most disenfranchised groups in America.

The solidarity of community as the foundation for creating a safe space may be the answer to shifting the culture of health in our black communities.

Mental health is an entity that has been stigmatized for decades. Despite the launch of social media campaigns such as #Breakthestigma, #GotPanic and #YouGoodMan to help spread awareness, there are clear disparities in the rates of mental health services used in the Black Community, especially among black men. This includes lower rates of prescription medications and the use of outpatient services overall for the treatment of any mental health condition.

Magdala Chery, DO, MBS is a Board Certified Internal Medicine Physician, motivational speaker, and health policy enthusiast. The story originally was published in BlackDoctor.org and has been reprinted with permission.

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Men gather at the Gentlemen’s Factory to discuss everything from health to wealth.

MENTAL HEALTH CONVERSATIONS DO NOT OCCUR OPENLY ENOUGH AT HOME OR IN HIGHLY CELEBRATED AND ANTICIPATED BLACK CULTURE SOCIAL GATHERINGS. There are plenty of factors that put blacks at higher risk for depression, anxiety, feelings of sadness, and hopelessness. Adult blacks are 20 percent more likely to report serious psychological distress than adult whites. Psychological distress is defined as a state of emotional affliction brought on by stressors and demands. This distress, as a result, makes it difficult to cope with regular day to day living.

According to U.S. Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, African Americans living below the poverty line are nearly three times as likely to endure this psychological distress. Therefore, linking socioeconomic status, in turn, to mental health. Although we know the risks, communities of color lag behind in mental health awareness and as result fail to benefit from early and effective interventions.

Founder Jeff Lindor

This is what makes what occurred at the Gentlemen’s Factory so powerful. Mental health conversations do not occur openly enough at home or in highly celebrated and anticipated black culture social gatherings like the cookouts, in church, and/or while playing recreational sports.

This is where we need to bridge the gap.

More must be done beyond just ensuring there are adequate and culturally competent services in place. We must also identify and create our own safe spaces in our own communities where we can begin to dismantle the mental health taboo.

DeRonn Kidd, from the Mental Health Service Corps and a ThriveNYC Speaker/ Facilitator states: “In regards to black men, there are two major problems. First, there is a lack of recognition of the signs and symptoms of mental conditions like depression or anxiety. Second, there is a mistrust of the healthcare system overall.

Couple these big factors with the responsibilities of most black men to have to pay bills, maintain a family, conform to societal hypermasculinity; mental health becomes low on the priority list.

Kidd believes the reason why spaces like the Gentlemen’s Factory are so pivotal lies

primarily in the “trust, comfort, and positive messaging it represents. You now have a place to come to for non-judgmental, transparent, and reliable dialogue. This is what men of color need.

This is how we discourage the notion that mental health is a “weakness” while offering a space that provides a “permission slip” for black men to confess, ask for help, vent, get pointed in the direction of mental health professionals, and removes toxic expressions of masculinity.”

Closing the gap in mental health for communities of color, also means we need more representation in medicine. A little over 13 percent of the population identifies as black or African American, yet only 4 percent of the physician workforce is black.

A study performed in Oakland, Calif., “Does Diversity Matter for Health?” revealed that patients are more likely to talk with a black doctor about their problems, and black doctors are more likely to write comprehensive notes about their patients.

Also the study noted that black men were more likely to agree with certain preventive measures when seen by a black doctor.

This is key when thinking about how mood disorders are screened and assessed in primary care settings. Screenings tools like the “Patient Health Questionnaire” for depression and the “General Anxiety Disorder” scale for anxiety disorder only help if patients feel comfortable to answer honestly. Again, emphasizing why opportunity to change the culture around mental health is so decisive.

The Gentlemen’s Factory is the perfect example of what we need to break down the barriers of mental health as a society. It is time we provide spaces like these in order to model authenticity and foster transparency while upholding our responsibility to thrive as a unit in the black community.

No longer can we stand behind the notion, “Don’t ask. Don’t tell,” when it comes to mental health. Our black men, our black communities, need to start healing.

ONYX MAGAZINE 9

Local Legends The Beat Down Band

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n 2014, a new band was born—one that was steeped in particularly Jazz and R&B but appealed to a broader cross-section of the listening public. Founder and leader of The Beat Down Band, Juston Capheart, embraced a style of music that bridged the gap that has often separated the musical taste of black and white America.

This group of aspiring men have aligned their unwavering dedication to a work ethic that has manifested a signature sound and defined the landscape of today’s R&B and Soul Music scene. If you’re wondering where the name “The Beat Down Band” originated, “381, It’s a long story.”

The backbone of their work stylistically has a range of influences from Quincy Jones, Prince, Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, Earth Wind & Fire, The Eagles, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Mint Condition, Maroon 5 and Musiq Soulchild. The band’s attitude and work ethic reflect a mantra that says, “anything is possible if you just put your mind to it.”

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Being exposed to music at such a young age, The Beat Down Band is firmly rooted in many different musical traditions, including R&B, Gospel, Soul, Blues and Jazz music. With their unpredictable musical arrangements, jabbing hooks and sensual structure they have become one of the tightest bands in the Tampa Bay area. By returning to their own musical influence, The Beat Down Band gives us a unique reflection and chronicle of traditional American music at its best, creating a library of music that will stand the test of time.

Eyes have not seen, ears have not heard of what’s about to go down with The Beat Down Band. These young men are a force to be reckoned with. You have not experience a bombastic performance until you rock with The Beat Down Band. This ensemble of men is living proof that raw talent and ambition can still prevail in the music Industry.

To find out where The Beat Down Band is playing in the Tampa Bay area and throughout, visit the website at www.beatdownband.com.

Bethune-Cookman University Launches $7.5 Million Fundraising Campaign, Supporters Encouraged to Give

T

he effort to preserve Bethune-Cookman University is in full swing and is being waged on many fronts. Collectively, we will be able to address many of the financial and reputational issues by each of us taking our respective places and doing what we can individually.

While the administration is working to address accreditation and operational concerns, alumni and friends have gathered in several fundraising initiatives to assist with pressing financial challenges. These challenges include securing funds for general operations, student scholarships, and strengthening the endowment.

The “Shifting Towards a New Foundation” and “We are Our Answer” campaigns are working in tandem to respond specifically to these issues. The Shifting Towards a New Foundation campaign has a goal of raising $7.5 million, to be used for two purposes; funding for need-based scholarships and strengthening the endowment. This initiative has four components, three of which — the Brick Project, Millionaire’s Club and I Leave You Love campaigns — will be used to close the gap for students who lack sufficient resources to meet their tuition and other expenses. The fourth component, targeting Major Gifts, will secure donations 12 ONYX MAGAZINE

which will be directed towards replenishing the endowment.

The “We Are Our Answer” campaign is an exciting initiative begun by faculty and staff alumni who are current employees of B-CU. This campaign is designated for operational costs as we seek to stabilize financial operations. Gifts made to We Are Our Answer are unrestricted; and funds will go directly to the area of greatest need. Dr. Camesha Whittaker-Manzueta is leading this alumni cohort in giving back to the institution that has given so much to generations of Wildcats.

We are excited that our team is working on all fronts to ensure that Bethune-Cookman University will remain the beacon of light that it has been for 115 years. Our alumni, friends and supporters are urged to participate in one or all of the campaigns at a level that is most comfortable. In this effort, no gift is too small to help us secure the foundation of Bethune-Cookman University for future generations.

Dr. Clifford Porter Vice President of Institutional Advancement Bethune-Cookman University

ONYX MAGAZINE 13

LEADERSHIP

Which sports analogy would you/do you use to motivate your team?

Ephesians 4:16 uses the example of the human body to describe truths in the world as well as spiritually—most often, successes are accomplished as a team orientation. “…from whom the whole body joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share….” Translation—a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.

All should use the gifts and strengths we’ve been blessed with for the good of the whole. If everyone is less concerned with who gets credit for the success, we will all be successful.

James Brown, CBS Sportscaster

Five Answers from a Leader

What is one characteristic you believe leaders should possess? Why? To be a servant leader. Why? Going back to the old expression, “most people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” If we know the leader is genuinely concerned about us, then in fact, we will be successful, because we want to work hard to satisfy the boss. Nothing is too high above the boss, that they can’t be concerned for all of us in this thing together.

BS Sports got it right when they called James Brown to the team, luring him away from FOX Sports after 11 years.

Known to many as J.B., Brown is the host of CBS’ “The NFL Today” and a special correspondent for CBS News. A Harvard University graduate and devout Christian, Brown hosts the NFL Broadcast Bootcamp to encourage others in the field. Brown took time to share some thoughts about leadership exclusively with ONYX Magazine.

Why should the experts help the next generation become better?

We have a responsibility to ensure that the team is amply prepared. When I started working in the area of football, I didn’t know football; I played basketball. A number of people poured into me to help me become as insightful as possible, which has led to a lengthy career at the network level of being a sports broadcaster. So, I have an obligation to help those who are coming behind me to give them the benefit of my experiences, helping them to become all they can be.

You have a strong faith foundation. Why is it important for leaders to remain spiritually grounded?

My growth and understanding in the Word of God is to know that the Word of God is truth. It’s important to understand what the facts are of a given situation, but the truth of the matter, which supersedes facts and circumstances, is the truth of God’s Word.

The scripture that describes how I go about doing my job can be found in Colossians 3:23. “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men….” If I’m seeking to please the Lord, my bosses can’t help but to be pleased because I will exceed whatever their expectations are, because I’m looking to honor the Lord.

You stand against domestic violence. How do you inspire young men to do the same?

Domestic violence is a serious issue in our society that cuts across every segment of society. Women are an exceedingly valuable asset in life period. The Bible says in Ephesians 5:25, husbands love your wives: it could drill down to say, listen to/care for your wives—every joint supplies. Your wife (girlfriend, sister) brings as much value to the table as you do. Women are not property, they belong to God just as much as we do. One can tell a lot about a man based on his wife. She is a reflection of him. Healthy manhood speaks to how a man treats a woman, with a healthy understanding of the role they play in any relationship, starting with our language and attitude as well as our actions.

C

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GOODBYE, MASTER OF

FUNK!

T

George Clinton steps down from stage

By Gigi Brooks

T

his year, we say goodbye to the Master of Funk, George Clinton, as he steps into retirement at 77. Yes, retirement. Who would have thought that he would ever retire? Has time flown by so quickly? In this special Black Music History issue, I thought it only appropriate to bid adieu.

For more than 50 years, singer, songwriter, bandleader, and record producer George Clinton has been on the music scene, creator one of the most influential, ingenious, funk bands in music history, recording under two distinct names Parliament and Funkadelic. The two bands were basically one in the same as far as band members, but Clinton ingeniously capitalized on the separate success of each band.

The band “Parliament/Funkadelic” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, and Clinton recently received the 2019 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

According to the Recording Academy, he will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award in May 2019.

For more than 45 years, we have a danced, grooved and jammed to his platinum selling songs such a “Flash Light,” “Tear The Roof Off the Sucker,” “One Nation Under A Groove,” “Knee Deep,” Aqua Boogie,” “Loopzilla,” “Atomic Dog,” and a treasure trove of others. Many of these songs have been sampled time-and-time again by hip-hop artists, bringing their music careers to levels of success.

Clinton’s collaborations with legendary funk bassist, Bootsy Collins, brought some of the most memorable funk hits of the 1970s. His name can be found on several artist’s albums such as Snoop-Dogg, Prince, Ice Cube, Red Hot Chili Peppers, 2Pac, Outkast, Warren G, Kendrick Lamar, and many others.

Parliament/Funkadelic, a.k.a. P-Funk, has toured the world and continues to do so, with Clinton front and center stage.

I have had the opportunity to meet him and watch their per-

Gigi Brooks is a writer and radio personality.

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formance over a span of 20 years. The show is fascinating and an immensely entertaining. Now, he is touring the band around the world one last time, until his retirement in May. Although Clinton will be leaving the stage, he will remain in the background producing. His children and grandchildren, along with other band members, will continue touring Parliament/Funkadelic. Clinton said his 2018 pacemaker surgery is not a factor in his decision to retire. Clinton said, “It’s never really been about me. It’s always been about the music and the band.”

Parliament released the album Medicaid Fraud Dogg in May 2018, 38 years after its last release. The album is loaded with new band members, along with Clinton at the forefront. The video “I’m Gon Make U Sick O Me” can be seen on YouTube.

The legacy of music George Clinton has brought to us has even spilled over into the jazz world as P-Funk was booked as a main headliner at the coveted world renowned 2018 Newport Jazz Festival, in Newport, RI. Needless to say, George and the band took the crowd to another level. People were lifted out of their seats in dance and celebration as classic favorites blasted across the venue.

P-Funk will not be the same without George Clinton.

Although, it is great to know that the band will continue on, and he will be somewhere in the background. Somehow, I still feel a pain and a sense of loss at the announcement of his retirement. I suppose it is because it means the end of an era...an end to going to watch him perform on stage, singing his sometimes quirky, yet thought-provoking lyrics. I have been a “Funkateer” for more than 45 years. This is the music I grew up on and still love to this day. I guess everything must come to an end at some point. However, when the time comes to say goodbye, it’s never easy. I will miss you, George Clinton!

”

It’s never really been about me. It’s always been about the music and the band.

ONYX MAGAZINE 19

EDUCATION

Cassandra Brown, third-year FAMU Law student and local ACLU chapter president

FAMU Law Student — Cassandra Brown — Named President Of Central Florida American Civil Liberties Union

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lorida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law third-year student Cassandra Brown is the new president of the Central Florida Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Brown has been volunteering with the local ACLU since 2016 serving in various roles such as secretary and vice president.

“I am honored to lead the Central Florida Chapter of ACLU in its important work to fight for the constitutional rights and freedoms of all people,” said Cassandra Brown. “It’s very challenging and rewarding work that I enjoy.”

Brown says the Central Florida Chapter of ACLU is working on voting rights, LGBT equality, women’s health and reproductive rights, church/state role clarity, and racial justice. The Central Chapter of ACLU is also working on criminal justice reform, immigration and mass incarceration issues. Communities of color can be disproportionately impacted in each of those areas.

“FAMU Law students are branching out and making a difference in their communities,” said Interim FAMU Law Dean

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LeRoy Pernell. “We are very proud of Ms. Brown’s accomplishments being named President of the local ACLU. She is a true “Rattler for Justice” and we know Ms. Brown will do well in this new leadership role.”

Brown is originally from Ocala, Fla. Her mother worked at the Ocala Housing Authority and was very active in union work.

Brown says that’s where she got her passion for community activism and helping people fight for their civil rights. Brown also serves as ACLU FAMU Law chapter president.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida is a private, non-profit, non-partisan, membership organization working in the courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve individual rights and personal freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Anyone interested in volunteering or if you believe your rights are being violated, please visit the ACLU website at central.aclufl.org.

BLACK MUSIC MONTH

I

n 1979 Kenny Gamble, Ed Wright and Dyana Williams implemented a month-long celebration of the impact of black music. These music business insiders pioneered Black Music Month and helped to create a continuous movement of empowerment and appreciation. On June 7th, 1979 the inspirational group successfully lobbied President Jimmy Carter into hosting a reception to formally recognize the cultural and financial contributions of black music throughout history. Since that fateful year, Black Music Month has grown from an intimate commemoration to national reach with an abundance of events held annually across the country.

As years went on many musicians, fans and influential individuals joined in celebratory observance during the month of June. Today throughout the month events are held embracing the achievements, prominent timelines and impactful moments of Black music. It is a chance to remember those musicians lost along the way. It is also an encouraging pathway for young musicians to follow their dreams. As the recognition grew, political figures followed in President Carter’s footsteps by helping spread the word of Black Music Month.

US-Representative Chaka Fattah took a stand in 2000 by sponsoring House Resolution 509 which nods towards the importance of Black music and its influence on our country’s culture and the economy. With this movement more folks rallied around in the celebratorious month,

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and by 2009 President Barack Obama further defined June as African American Music Appreciation Month. President Obama declared that the start of summer would be a celebration for “the rich heritage” of African American music and how these instrumental musicians, “have enriched American music and captured the diversity of our Nation.”

“The music of our Nation has always spoken to the condition of our people and reflected the diversity of our Union. African-American musicians, composers, singers, and songwriters have made enormous contributions to our culture by capturing the hardships and aspirations of a community and reminding us of our shared values.”

As more and more groups come together in celebration of African American music throughout history and present day, the progressive impact on our culture becomes even stronger.

African American Music Appreciation Month continues to bring together all walks of life through the love of music.

Join in commemorating the music that influences creativity, diversity, and unity.

The National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tenn., provided this explanation of Black Music Month. The museum is scheduled to open in May of 2020, just in time for Black Music Month. For more information about the National Museum of African American Music, please visit www.nmaam.org.

ONYX PROFILE

Jeffrey Redding Grammy Award Winner

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effery Redding of West Orange High School in Winter Garden, Fla., was the recipient of the 2019 Music Educator Award™ presented by the Recording Academy™ and GRAMMY Museum®. Initial nominations were submitted from all 50 states.

A partnership and joint presentation of the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum, the Music Educator Award was established to recognize current educators (kindergarten through college, public and private schools) who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in schools.

The award is open to current U.S. music teachers, and anyone can nominate a teacher—students, parents, friends, colleagues, community members, school deans, and administrators. Teachers are also able to nominate themselves, and nominated teachers are notified and invited to fill out an application.

Redding is the director of Choral Activities at West Orange High School in Winter Garden and has led his choirs in performance at state, regional, and national conventions of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). West Orange choirs have earned first place and top honors at festivals across the country.

Redding is in demand as a guest conductor and lecturer: He has conducted the ACDA National High School Honor Choir, among many other honor choirs, and has been featured as a guest conductor at the TAISM Festival of Choirs, Carnegie Hall, and other prestigious venues in the United States and abroad. In 2015, Redding was awarded the R. Wayne Hugoboom Distinguished Service Award for “dedicated service, leadership, and excellence” by the Florida Chapter of ACDA. In addition to his duties at West Orange, he is the founder and artistic director of the Garden Community Choir and a professional chamber choir Voci del Cuore in Winter Garden. He is a member of ACDA, NAfME, FVA, NATS, and Chorus America.

CBS’s “60 Minutes” chronicled Reddings’ story and he received recognition for his outstanding work at the 2019 Disney Dreamers Academy ® with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine. He earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Florida A&M University, in addition to a master’s degree and doctorate—both in music— from Florida State University.

Grammy Museum news release ONYX MAGAZINE 23

INSPIRATION

100 Dreams Come True at Disney ONYX Magazine attended the Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World in March and witness dreams coming true for 100 youths.

Walt Disney World Resort engaged 100 extraordinary youths from across the nation in the 2019 Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine. Each student received an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World to participate in an immersive, transformational four-day experience.

The program, now in its 12th year, is an important part of Disney’s commitment to helping the next generation of young people by inspiring them at a critical time in their development. The Disney Dreamers Academy theme was “Be100,” encouraging teens to be positive, to be “all in” and to carry what they learn back with them, so they can relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

From L to R: Chef Jeff Henderson, gospel superstar Yolanda Adams and author Sonia Jackson Miles pose for a selfie on Thursday, March 21, 2019, during the welcome ceremony of Disney Dreamers Academy at Epcot in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The 12th annual Disney Dreamers Academy, taking place March 21-24, 2019 is a careerinspiration program for distinguished high school students from across the U.S. (Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)

Steve Harvey poses for a selfie with Disney Dreamers during commencement on Sunday, March 24, 2019. The 12th annual Disney Dreamers Academy, taking place March 21-24, 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort is a career-inspiration program for distinguished high school students from across the U.S. (Gregg Newton, photographer) 2019 Disney Dreamers Academy students and alumni from around the country star in a special parade Thursday, March 21, at Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. to signal the beginning of the 12th annual Disney Dreamers Academy. The event, taking place March 21-24, 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort, is a careerinspiration program for distinguished high school students from across the U.S. (Todd Anderson, photographer)

Anthony Juba-Richardson from Winter Garden, Fla. receives the Dreamer of the Year Award at Disney Dreamers Academy commencement at Walt Disney World Resort on Sunday, March 24, 2019. The 12th annual Disney Dreamers Academy, taking place March 21-24, 2019 is a careerinspiration program for distinguished high school students from across the U.S. (Todd Anderson, photographer)

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(L to R) Founder of Young Fit & Fly Karli Harvey Raymond, Motivational Speaker Dr. Steve Perry, CEO of Simply Ellis Custom Clothier Dr. Alex O. Ellis, Mickey Mouse, Anthony JubaRichardson from Winter Garden, Fla., Jasmine Bell from Charlotte, N.C. and Devan Smith from Marietta, Ga. pose for a photo during Disney Dreamers commencement on Sunday, March 24, 2019. The 12th annual Disney Dreamers Academy, taking place March 21-24, 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort is a career-inspiration program for distinguished high school students from across the U.S. (Todd Anderson, photographer)

SHAQ HEALTH AND WELLNESS

GETS REAL The former NBA player speaks out about heart disease in the black community

By Jasmine Browley

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R

esearch shows that black people are 20 times more likely than other ethnic groups to develop heart failure before the age of 50, and they are more likely to be hospitalized or die from heart failure than white Americans. Earlier this month, Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC, partnered with Shaquille O’Neal to help shift those dangerously high numbers.

The recently launched “Shaquille Gets Real About Heart Failure” campaign, a national educational initiative, was designed to raise awareness around the heart failure disparity in the African American community and to show ways to manage this condition.

Although he has never had heart challenges himself, O’Neal, recognized around the world as a Basketball Hall of Famer, is using his powerful platform to help spread the word that every African American needs to take this disease seriously.

“Heart failure is what happens when the intricate parts of the heart don’t work together to pump blood through the body,” says Dr. Ofilli, a fellow campaign ambassador and professor of Medicine (Cardiology) at Morehouse School of Medicine.

“Over time, the heart can no longer keep up with what the body needs.”

“Even though I don’t suffer from heart failure, when I found out about this disparity, I knew I had to get involved and help educate my community about the burden of heart failure for African Americans,” said O’Neal, formerly of the National Basketball Association’s Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic, and currently a sports analyst. “I’ve learned that there are not only specific risk factors in African Americans but also treatment options that offer specific benefits. I’m partnering with Arbor to motivate African Americans living with heart failure to talk

to their doctor and ensure they’re doing everything they can to take care of their health.”

According to www.ShaqGetsReal.com, the campaign’s website was created to provide answers to African American heart failure patients and healthcare providers. It includes an educational video series featuring Shaquille O’Neal and details about the Shaq BiDil® Access Program.

The Shaq BiDil Access Program brings together a set of savings options that ensures reasonable access to the treatment, BiDil. This is the first heart failure medication indicated for self-identified African American patients with heart failure. BiDil® is a vasodilator that boosts the supply of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes vasodilation, which widens and relaxes blood vessels in the body.

Disease disparities between people of different ethnicities continues to gather interest and support from the medical community. For example, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association recently published guidelines on cardiovascular risk factors, encouraging healthcare providers to consider ethnicity when determining risks and treatment options.

“In the A-HeFT trial, adding BiDil® to current therapies made a significant difference in the lives of African Americans with heart failure,” said Dr. Ofili, in a press release. “I am proud to work with Shaquille O’Neal and Arbor Pharmaceuticals to encourage healthcare providers to consider the benefits of BiDil® when evaluating treatment plans for their African American patients with heart failure.”

For more information about Shaquille Gets Real About Heart Failure, visit www.

ShaqGetsReal.com.

“EVEN THOUGH I DON’T SUFFER FROM HEART FAILURE, WHEN I FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS DISPARITY, I KNEW I HAD TO GET INVOLVED AND HELP EDUCATE MY COMMUNITY ABOUT THE BURDEN OF HEART FAILURE FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS.” – Shaquille O’Neal

This story ran in BlackDoctor.org. Jasmine Browley has contributed as a writer to several national magazines.

ONYX MAGAZINE 27

SAGE

Aging at Home Seniors redefine where they want to grow old

M

ost older adults—about 94 percent—want to stay at home as they age. But a new survey from the Home Instead Senior Care network shows many seniors are redefining what it means to age in place, revealing that one in four plan to move to a new home to accommodate their changing needs.

Among those who want to age in a new home, many older adults are searching for improved practicality—with top desired features, including single-floor living and easy or low cost of maintenance. For those who want to stay in their current homes, nearly two-thirds have given thought to age-friendly modifications, such as adding grab bars to bathrooms or other safety measures.

When seniors and loved ones are faced with the question of what features are best for them, it is important to consider effects of aging that could make certain areas of

the home hazardous, such as: • Agility and mobility. Conditions such as arthritis can impair mobility. Stairs that were once easy to navigate might now present a challenge.

• Balance. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and other chronic conditions increase the risk for balance problems, as well as falls on slippery floors and getting in and out of the bathtub.

• Eyesight. Studies indicate that a 60-yearold needs at least three times more ambient light to see than a 20-year-old. Poor eyesight may make medication management and personal grooming difficult, and can lead to tripping hazards.

• Memory. The effects of memory loss might make it hard for an older adult to stay on a medication plan, remember to turn off stove burners or pay bills on time.

With so much to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed navigating the decision of where to age. In fact, just one in four seniors surveyed report having specific plans for where they will live as they become older.

To help seniors make an informed decision on the best place to age, Home Instead is introducing Home Your Own Way, a new collection of free resources for seniors and their loved ones to navigate options and determine what “home” might look like for them.

Whether older adults age in their current home, downsize, move to a senior living community or choose to live with relatives, there are resources to provide seniors and families with the information they need to make a decision that is right for them. Check out your local senior centers for more information.

This article was provided by NewsUSA ONYX MAGAZINE 29

TECHNOLOGY

Tech Trends to Watch in 2019

Smart home devices

While devices that control the function and convenience of your home are hardly new, they’re becoming increasingly sophisticated. Numerous voice assistant devices are now available, meaning you can take your pick of the features and brands you prefer. All function basically the same, allowing you to verbally control various smart devices throughout your home, as well as check the weather, make grocery lists, play music and more. In addition, security devices that manage access to your home and provide camera or video visibility when you’re away and more sophisticated smart devices like kitchen appliances are growing in popularity, too. Almost all these devices simply run over your home Wi-Fi network.

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5G connectivity

You’ve likely heard about 3G and 4G, and maybe even about the latest network: 5G, or fifth generation. When 5G replaces 4G, often called LTE, as the fastest cellular connection available, you can expect faster uploads and downloads along with improved experiences for apps and services.

Unlike previous generations, the 5G experience will be fueled by a combination of technologies. In your home, at the office, at venues and airports, internet traffic will travel by a mix of other technologies including current and future versions of Wi-Fi. In fact, according to research by Cisco, cellular 5G networks will actually send vast amounts of additional data traffic over commercial Wi-Fi networks that use the same technology as your router but on a grander scale. However, cellular carriers have to build out different infrastructure to beam 5G signals, so this process may take until 2020 or later.

Wearable technology

The world of wearable technology has grown exponentially since the first fitness trackers came on the market a decade or more ago. Now, wearables come in virtually every shape and size, with interchangeable bands, customizable screens and more for maximum personalization. More notable, though, is the significant advances in

function. Today’s wearables go far beyond counting steps or distance; you can create an entire wellness program using diet-logging apps and video workout demonstrations and even monitor health data such as sleep stages and oxygen saturation levels.

Wi-Fi 6

When used indoors, most devices use Wi-Fi to connect to the internet because it typically works faster and more reliably than using cellular data. Allowing for more devices to connect, and with less buffering, Wi-Fi 6 is a new standard of Wi-Fi that will be four times faster than the current standard. With wider channels and other technical innovations, next-generation Wi-Fi is designed to support data-intensive applications like smart home devices or technologies such as augmented or virtual reality gaming systems. Routers equipped for Wi-Fi 6 are already available for purchase, with more expected to launch this year, and computers, phones and other connected devices that can utilize the more advanced technology will also debut this year and next.

Learn more about emerging technologies and how your connections will soon be enhanced at WifiForward.org. Story by Family Features.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

I

t wasn’t long ago that the idea of a watch that did anything more than tell time was a figment of futuristic fantasy. Now technologies once deemed high-end luxuries for only the wealthy are completely common. Yet new advances keep spurring even more ideas to improve tech devices themselves and the networks they rely on to deliver unprecedented connectivity in every aspect of life.

Watch for these tech trends on the rise this year:

ONYX PROFILE

Leah Flynn

Leah Flynn is a violin soloist. Her father, Lennox Flynn, a self-taught musician, realized Leah’s gift as he noticed her tinker on the family’s keyboard, playing actual melodies when she was 3 years old. Leah discovered her passion for playing the violin at 5. By 6, she brilliantly performed the Disney’s “Frozen” “Let It Go” sequence on violin in its entirety. Video footage of that performance is now viral on YouTube with 2.2 million views. At 7, she began playing violin by ear and joined the Orlando Youth Orchestra soon after. By 9, she was the concertmaster, lead musician for a large repertory, comprised of mostly teen musicians. Leah is what many call a music prodigy.

Now, at 11, Leah practices daily for two to three hours, is already proficient in reading music and is actively studying classical music through a private tutor. She has a keen ear, a sharp memory, and her aptitude for violin performance is undeniable. Leah is currently a soloist, performing in a variety of musical styles by special request, paid bookings for weddings, galas, megachurches, and political events. She

has already built an impressive résumé that includes solo performances for Bishop T.D. Jakes, the office of the City of Orlando’s Mayor Demings, four appearances as part of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, an appearance at The White House, as well as an honor from the NAACP. Leah’s budding career has been made possible due to private donations and the support of her parents, Lennox and Paula Flynn, who have continued to make extreme personal sacrifices to cultivate her musical gift. The Flynns have vetted out every program and resource that could potentially foster her growth and continue to vet out the best opportunities. They have also launched the Heart for Strings Foundation, a 501(c)(3) in her honor, to be a source of information and resources in support of other young musicians in underserved communities. Through the Heart for Strings Foundation, the Flynns also are working to raise awareness, and Leah serves as an advocate every time she places her violin to her chin.

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MONEY MATTERS

Spending Habits Millennials are $1 trillion in debt, but they’re better at saving than previous generations

By Jimmie Lenz

N

ew findings from the New York Federal Reserve reveal that millennials have now racked up over $1 trillion of debt.

This troubling amount of debt, an increase of over 22 percent in just five years, is more than any other generation in history. This situation may leave you wondering how millennials ended up in such a sorry state.

As important as the debt is how millennials’ economic choices vary from the expectations. Millennials are much more conservative than the debt balances may indicate. In fact, in comparison to previous generations this group is significantly more fiscally conservative.

A product of the times

U.S. millennials—Americans born between 1981 and 1996—have experienced the cosmic duality of yin and yang like few other generations.

Millions across all generations have yet to fully recover from the global financial crisis, but displays of extreme wealth are more visible than ever, thanks to social media.

Millennials benefit from dramatic advances in health care, while living through an opioid epidemic that is now a major cause of death in the U.S. They have witnessed and contributed to monumental technological advances. At the same time, they must reconcile the ethical and financial implications of 29 years of global military actions frequently led by the U.S.

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Do these experiences affect the behaviors of millennials? It seems that it has led millennials to be more conservative with their money, as is well documented in studies of this group.

Compared to other generations

While the debt levels accumulated by millennials eclipse those of the previous generation, Generation X, at a similar point in time, the complexion of the debt is very different.

According to a 2018 report from the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank, mortgage debt is about 15 percent lower for millennials and credit card debt among millennials was about two-thirds that of Gen X. However, student loan debt was more than 300 percent greater. Student debt affects a much broader age segment than just millennials, at more than 43 million borrowers, but the burden weighs most heavily on this generation.

Given the behavior of previous generations, it seems that this lower credit card debt and mortgage debt reflect millennials’ more risk-averse approach to their finances.

Another marked behavioral difference between generations is the higher levels of retirement savings among millennials than any previous generation at the same age. While Gen Xers had acquired about $13,600 at around the same point in time, millennials have saved $15,000 in retirement accounts on average.

Millennials are also more committed to higher education. Between 2001 and 2016, the number of people aged 25 to 29 with at least a four year degree grew by 25 percent.

Both increased retirement savings and additional education are behaviors that economists might consider conservative investment strategies, more so when paired with lower credit card debt. But these changes in attitudes or perspectives can be difficult to measure.

The housing market

Another significant departure in this generation’s spending behavior is that millennials are delaying when they enter the housing market as homeowners and take on the associated debt of owning a home.

Studies show that experiences lead to longer-term happiness and may provide another perspective on which to gauge the fiscal state of millennials.

Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau and the American Community Survey illustrate this stark difference in homeownership. The number of millennials who own houses lags previous generations by about 8 percentage points.

Student debt was cited by the Federal Reserve in its January 2019 Consumer and Community Context report as a factor in millennials delaying homeownership.

However, given millennials’ propensity to contribute more to their retirement savings accounts, it’s not certain that student loan debt alone is what is keeping them out of the housing market.

For example, in recent years, the trend toward urbanization has resulted in an increase in urban housing prices. This is particularly evident in counties where more

young people live or are moving to. These rising housing prices nearest employment centers may partly explain why millennials have delayed entering the housing market.

Are millennials better off?

Perhaps a different perspective of success is required when assessing the millennial generation, a perspective that emphasizes more than the acquisition of homes and other hard assets, which is based on the relative perspective of an older generation’s measures of the American Dream.

After all, previous generations have led millennials down a path of global economic uncertainties and real estate booms and busts. Millennials are now showing their reluctance to commit to such longterm debt, given the times they have lived through and the true economic return on homes. Homes retrun little more than the rate of inflation, and when taxes, insurance and maintenance are factored in they look even less attractive.

The net result of these behavioral changes, paired with the economics of the environment, is that millennials’ average net worth is about $90,000 , compared to Gen X of $130,000 at a similar age point.

But net worth isn’t the whole story. Millennials have emphasized post-secondary education, resulting in less time in the work force than their Gen X counterparts. Given this choice of education over employment, the net worth figures are quite logical.

Although one might profess that in a few years these millennials will “catch up” and enter this phase of homeowner indebtedness, perhaps their approach on life deemphasizes the acquisition of things.

While long-term student debt has reduced millennials’ ability to gather assets at the same rate as previous generations, many of this generation seem to have adopted an alternative view on assets, preferring the acquisition of experiences and savings accounts over things.

Studies show that experiences lead to longer-term happiness and may provide another perspective on which to gauge the fiscal state of millennials.

Jimmie Lenz is an adjunct professor of Finance, University of South Carolina. This story originally appeared in The Conversation and has been reprinted with permission.

ONYX MAGAZINE 33

GOOD READ

LYRICAL NOTATIONS Words you can groove to

By Patricia Brown Denis Music is about rhythm, and in a lot of cases it is the lyrics that lend the emotion to the music. Words set to music are not the only kind that cause rhythmic emotion. In fact, many novels, short stories and books of poetry are completely moving solely on the basis of the construction and word choice of the author. In most cases, the melody is the life exposed and unraveled in those words.

Friday Black Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah shares emotion with us in “Friday Black.”

The content, as with music, is relatable to anyone. The short stories are about the day-to-day activity of living. In “Friday Black” the main character shares the truth of his life which parallels the lives of many minimum wage or commission workers who are making just enough money to just barely make it. His voice resonate with anyone whose family is in his predicament. When the family contemplates thanksgiving he says, “Then we skipped the whole thing because we don’t really like one another anymore. That was one of the side effects of lean living. We used to play games together. Now my parents yell about money, and when they aren’t doing that, we are quiet”. “Friday Black” is a creative, smart and unpredictable work.

Citizen: An American Lyric

Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds

Claudia Rankin The rhythm of Claudia Rankin’s work “Citizen: An American Lyric” is raw. Citizen captures current events and exposes us to the struggle to survive in the maddening world of racism.

The words are captivating, “certain moments send adrenaline to the heart, dry out the tongue, and clog the lungs.

Like thunder they drown you in sound, no, like lightning they strike you across the larynx”.

Rankin’s words feel like fresh cuts into an open wound.

David Groggins Music often tells the stories for people.

It captures the essence of the people, their joy, pain, happiness and sorrow.

It reminds us of the places we have been. David Groggins tells a story that certainly would have a soulful ballad playing in the background. “Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds” is a story of Groggins’ life. He recounts the pain of physical and mental torment that drove him to physical and mental strength. Burke’s power is in his choice of words which often match the brutality and training that is his life. Much like uncensored lyrics of our modern music, sometimes telling it like it is requires the frankness of a curse word or two. Can’t Hurt Me is shocking, sad, and uplifting and inspiring at the same time.

Patricia Brown Denis is a writer and educator in Tampa.

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These books are works that could make up an album or two if they were set to music. The rhythm is there. For each of them the story captures an emotion and makes you want to finish reading to the last beat, or in this case, the last word.

HOPE

From Tragedy to Healing

Oscar Grant’s mother, Wanda Johnson

The film “Fruitvale Station” told the story of Grant’s death on a train platform. Now his family is building bridges between police and their communities.

By Bailey Williams

O

scar Grant, III, was an unarmed Black vman killed by a police officer in Oakland, Calif., years before Black Lives Matter drew national attention to the growing number of unarmed black men, women and children who die at the hands of law enforcement officers—what some scholars are calling an epidemic.

Jan. 1 marked 10 years since the 22-yearold father was fatally shot by the Bay Area Regional Transit officer in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day. In the decade since his tragic death, Grant’s family has helped to create a police citizen review board of BART, established a foundation, and launched a campaign to not only help bridge the gap between police and the community, but also to build a 36 ONYX MAGAZINE

nationwide network of families affected by such violence.

“That’s a club that nobody wants to be a part of,” says Grant’s aunt, Beatrice X Johnson. “We can offer them love, support, and steps to getting justice, because we are the only ones that truly know what they’re going through.”

The impact of Grant’s death ripped through the country. Millions would come to know his story, which was depicted in the 2013 critically acclaimed film “Fruitvale Station.”

BART officers had responded to a call about a fight on the Fruitvale station platform about 2 a.m. Grant, who according to reports was not among those fighting, was detained with several others. Bystanders captured videos of the incident. Already restrained, an unarmed Grant was fatally shot in the back by Officer Johannes Mehserle.

Grant became part of a grim list of unarmed black men, women, and children, killed in the years before the world started saying their names: Travyon Martin ... Michael Brown … Philando Castile …

Tamir Rice … Aiyanna Stanley-Jones …

Rekia Boyd … Sandra Bland.

The United States has the highest number of police killings than any other industrialized country. In 2018, nearly 1,000 people were killed by police, according to “The Washington Post.” Of those killed, 38 were unarmed.

Research has recently confirmed what survivors of police violence have known for a long time—the trauma from these type of killings reach far beyond those who personally knew the victim. Entire black communities are affected.

Organizing

To help their community heal from Grant’s death, his mother, Wanda Johnson, and uncle Cephus X Johnson, known as Uncle Bobby, along with members of their community, campaigned for the creation of the BART Police Citizen Review Board, which was formed in 2009.

Among their responsibilities, members of the board review citizen allegations of on-duty police misconduct, and recommend and monitor changes to police poli-

Photo by Anda Chu/Digital First Media/East Bay Times/Getty Images.

Oscar Grant’s Family 10 Years Later

Photo by Nissa Tzun/Forced Trajectory Project.

cies. According to NBC Bay Area, dozens of recommendations from the review board were approved by the BART board in March 2018, such as allowing the independent police auditors to investigate any kind of misconduct allegations.

In 2010, Uncle Bobby founded the Oscar Grant Foundation to help mend the distrust between residents in predominantly black, high-crime communities and law enforcement. The foundation offers community support through grief sessions as well as youth services and activities such as scholarships, school supplies giveaways, tutoring, and programs, including three basketball teams named after Grant.

He and his wife, Beatrice, later established the Love Not Blood Campaign in 2014. And Wanda Johnson took over as CEO of the foundation.

The purpose of both organizations is to help others who’ve been affected by gun violence, and to create an environment where that violence does not exist.

Love Not Blood works to build a network of families across the country whose loved ones have lost their lives to police or community violence. They offer emotional support through their family response team, which helps families with events, such as vigils or healing circles. They also help them with navigating the criminal justice system, attaining lawyers, attending trials, and creating a safe space for them to tell their stories.

The campaign also holds workshops at conferences and in schools to inspire youth activism.

“We offer services to educate children so they can get activated right away,” Beatrice says. “This is their future. You don’t have to wait until you’re grown to start making changes.”

Uncle Bobby adds that they offer a unique perspective to families when a crisis occurs.

“Families impacted will have a better chance of engaging families that are newly impacted,” he explains. “We give them insight of this whole new trajectory that they’ve been placed on with the murder of their loved one.”

Healing Hurting Hearts

Dionne Smith-Downs, a mother of 14, was put on that new trajectory when she lost her son James Rivera to police violence in 2010. Rivera, 16, was shot multiple times

by Stockton, Calif., police officers.

From left to right, Cephus X (Uncle Bobby) Johnson, Stevante Clark, brother of Stephon Clark, 22, who was killed by Sacramento Police, and Beatrice X Johnson gather at an impacted families conference event hosted in Bakersfield, CA.

Uncle Bobby reached out to SmithDowns to let her know she wasn’t alone, and introduced her to Wanda Johnson, who convenes the monthly support sessions at the foundation for mothers whose children have died from gun violence.

The goal of the sessions is to introduce the mothers to the five stages of the grieving process, brainstorm solutions to policing, and talk about ways to improve the relationship between the community and police.

“I understand the loss. I can’t say I understand their full grieving process because everyone grieves different,” Wanda says. “[But] I understand the impact of losing your son at the hands of those we hire to protect and serve [us].”

Smith-Downs is one of 15 to 30 participants who attend the Healing Hurting Hearts monthly support sessions. She says coming together regularly with the mothers is empowering.

“My son was 16 years old when he was killed, and I had so many questions,” she said. “No one knows how you’re feeling, but these mothers do.”

Building relationships

Donna Smith, Grant’s godmother and foundation volunteer, is proud of the relationship the foundation has forged with local law enforcement. Over the years, officers have participated in the foundation’s community events.

“When we have the backpack giveaways or scholarship events, police officers and firefighters are all lined up on the walls and even out in the lobby. They’re saying, ‘We’re here to support your community and we’re going to be consistent,’” Smith says. “It’s overwhelming to see.”

In addition to building relationships with officers and holding them accountable, the foundation has provided nearly $70,000 in

scholarships to youth in the community.

Jafar Bey, a sophomore at University of California, Davis, was awarded a scholarship in 2017. “[I] can’t really describe how much it’s appreciated,” says Bey, who comes from a large family.

With nine siblings, he says, money can be tight. Two are currently in college.

“Getting the scholarship from the foundation allowed me to go to a prestigious university right away without waiting and having to go somewhere smaller,” he said.

At UC Davis, Bey majors in political science and philosophy, and plans to become a lawyer so that he can help at-risk and disadvantaged youth, who he says often get overlooked.

“They don’t get a chance to see their potential, but the Oscar GrantFoundation allows them to see themselves in a different light and lets them know there are opportunities out there for them to succeed.”

Looking to the future In March, the foundation held its Fourth Annual Gala to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Grant’s death with an unveiling of a mural at the Fruitvale station in Grant’s honor. And the family is working toward installing a plaque on the platform as well.

The funds raised from the gala will go toward youth scholarships, travel, flights, and uniforms for the OG Ballers basketball team, Healing Hurting Hearts materials, a building fund for a tutoring center, and more. “[We want to] really pour love into the community and help with our collective healing,” Wanda Johnson says. “We can’t do this work without the community’s support.”

This story originally was featured in Yes! Magazine and has been reprinted with permission.

ONYX MAGAZINE 37

JOIN OUR TEAM ONYX Magazine celebrates 20 years of entertaining, inspiring and informing African Americans throughout Florida. Join our team as we continue to expand. We are seeking experienced and enthusiastic Sales Representatives and Writers. Send your resume’ and writing clips (for writers) to info@onyxmagazine.com or call 407-451-2891.

ENTERTAINS, INSPIRES AND INFORMS

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BUSINESS

Be Well at Work Nine simple ways to improve life on the job

By David Hall

T

here are many ways you can improve both your business and your personal well-being. Here are several things you can do that will give you an immediate lift and should take not much longer than an hour in total.

1. Make a to-do list as soon as you arrive each day. Write it down with a pen and keep it in view. Cross the items out as you do them.

2. Walking, running, swimming, going to the gym. It really doesn’t matter. If you look to raise your heartbeat for only 10 minutes a day, it will work wonders, especially if you have a sedentary job. A few squats, lunges and air-punches can be done without taking up too much room. Failing that, walk up and down the stairs 10 times. Exercise helps you feel better and work better.

Doing the exercise at the start of the day is better as it will increase your metabolism for the whole time you are at work.

3. Take 10 minutes each day to identify five well-fitting prospects to speak to. Scour your contacts to determine the best person to contact initially. Use your knowl-

edge of previous clients and try to replicate the position and level of authority at your potential customer.

4. Ring them. It doesn’t hurt. You are attempting to improve their life by offering them your service. If they don’t want it, fine, move on. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Even if they don’t want something now, ask if you can send them something via email for them to keep on file in case they change their mind. You then have their contact details.

5. Snack healthy. Keeping your energy at its maximum takes fuel. The more healthy the fuel, the more high octane the outcome. There are loads of ways to find out what food works best for you. Your doctor, a dietician, internet and good advice from friends.

6. Spend 10 minutes updating your customer relations management (CRM). Add as much detail as possible to conversations you’ve had. Enter professional social media addresses; they are always useful to see where people move to. People move on and often stay in a similar industry, stay up to

date and you get a ready-made contact at a new industry.

7. After a worthy conversation with a prospect, look for them on professional social media sites and if they are there, add them.

It’s a business relationship tool, you are not asking to be their best friend.

8. Update your professional social media sites. The more you use them, the better they will work for you. Try not to be boring but keep it going. It doesn’t just have to be about work, showing that you are having fun with your colleagues is really engaging and lets your prospects know that you are a friendly bunch.

9. Take time to relax once your work day is done. Transition from your working to personal identity. It can be done in the office, the car or while walking. If you can do it on public transport, great. If not, wait until you reach your stop.

These are just a few tasks that will soon see you benefit without you having to extend your working day. You will be fitter, more profitable, up-to-date and capable of dealing with the problems that hard-work can bring.

ONYX MAGAZINE 39

CONSTRUCTING A LEGACY

FEATURE R.L. Burns, Inc. Celebrates 25 Years of Building Florida

By D. Shenell Reed

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“Don’t you ever tell me you can’t do something. You can do anything you set your mind to!”

These words are indelibly etched in Robert L. Burns’ memory. They are the words that ushered him through what could have been a tough childhood. They pressed him forward while he matriculated through college.

They guided him to become a successful business owner and community leader. Now, Burns echoes the sentiment to encourage those he leads.

His father, with an eighth-grade education, handed some sage advice to young Robert and his four siblings in 1950s Philadelphia. Burns remembers him as “a strong black man who didn’t take [stuff] from nobody.” And he always had an inspiring word.

“Nothing beats a try but a fail; and failure is not an option,” his father would say.

Burns took the wisdom to heart and said thank you to his dad in a very big way: by following in his entrepreneurial footsteps. In April, R.L. Burns, Inc., a construction management and general contracting firm with Burns as its founder and president, celebrated 25 years of contributing to some of Florida’s most impressive structures.

Fueling the dream

Growing up poor in North Philly fueled Burns’ dreams. His parents encouraged his intellect and guided him just by being “great parents,” he says. But his neighborhood was tough, and without the right guidance, his dreams could have been thwarted.

“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN INDEPENDENT, STUBBORN AND HAD A HARD HEAD—ALL THINGS YOU NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL.” –Robert L. Burns

R.L. Burns corporate office

“I had to walk through three gangs to get to school,” Burns recalls. “I had two choices to make: join a gang and get beaten by my father, or not join a gang and get harassed.

Since my father was the toughest of them all, I joined his gang.”

Burns also found other positive role models close by. One, a laborer who worked on interesting projects and taught Burns how to hang a door, nudged his curiosity about building. As a result, Burns thought he would be an architect, because he was always inclined to explore how things work.

“As a kid, I would take things apart and try to put them back together again,” he says. “When I was in the (Air Force), I had no furniture, so I made my own.”

The urging to build never left him.

He traveled the world, attended college at the Philadelphia College of Art, learned woodwork, and did a heck of a job building furniture.

“Being from a poor family, I had no idea someone would spend eight grand for a chair,” he said.

In 1991, he started a stint at Wade Development building affordable housing. After a year, he decided the politics and his honesty were not a good mesh. So, he worked in the commercial market and liked it—enough to establish R.L. Burns, Inc., just a few years later.

He had seen his father leave a solid career after 25 years and, with no experience, start a janitorial business. Burns thought, ‘if dad can do it, I can do it.’

A dream realized

The year was 1994. Burns had already left his home in Philadelphia and moved to Florida, which he describes as a friendly place with a great pathway to the construction industry.

“With Orlando being a smaller place, and my talent and skills and high motivation, it was easy to keep my eye on the goal,” he says. “I have always been independent, stubborn and had a hard head— all things you need to be successful.”

R.L. Burns opened with one on staff— Burns. Now, 25 years later, there are 35 of the most diverse and well-skilled professionals taking his company to the next level in construction.

“I’m not easy to work for, I’m tough,” says Burns. “But I challenge my staff, let them make mistakes,” and they are better for it. Committed to diversity, Burns brags that the majority of his staff is female— one is his daughter—and he says they run circles around many who have a longer history in the industry.

Burns says mentors and business owners Barry Vitow and Jim Wade were tough on him and inspired him to become top in the industry. When he made a mistake, they didn’t let it slide. He was late on his first project with Vitow and got a stern admonishing that the tardiness costed Vitow money and negatively impacted his production. Burns incorporates the lesson into his operations.

Overcoming challenges

“Diversify,” he said. “In a situation like that, you have to be working on multiple projects, so that when negative things are happening with one, you have the others to rely on.”

It was a lesson he never forgot. Today, R.L. Burns is actively involved with many projects around the state. To name a few, the Orange County School Board, Hillsborough County Schools, City of Orlando, the Amway Arena in Orlando, and the Florida Citrus Bowl, all are in the portfolio. The company also works on projects in Pensacola and other parts of the state.

However, perhaps his greatest accomplishment is the R.L. Burns, Inc., office, which he designed and built, and where his team held the 25th anniversary.

“I equate our company to a speedboat—we can make a 180 degree turn on a dime,” Burns said. “Larger companies are like cruise ships and can’t turn as fast.

When our clients need something, they get me directly and I will take care of it immediately.”

On the Horizon

What’s on the horizon for R.L. Burns, Inc.? The next 25 years.

“I have prepared the staff to build for another 25 years,” Burns said. “I will be passing the baton in about five years and they are more than ready. It takes a village.”

Burns is looking forward to retirement.

“I will consult, help where I can; I will not go away,” he said. “I’ll give back to the community, teach young men how to treat a lady, motivate young black youths (which he currently does). But for now, my focus is on the clients and our staff.”

The husband and father to a daughter and a son is proud of his family and enjoys their time together. His mom will be 91 this year and his aunt died at 100 last year, so he believes longevity runs in the family.

“It’s all about finding the balance,” he says. His father would be proud.

The construction business is not without its ebbs and flows. Seven years into the business ownership, that became painfully real for Burns. His company went from 27 employees to two during the recession in 2001. Ninety percent of his business was firmly at Walt Disney World Resorts.

When the tough times arose and construction projects were slashed, R.L. Burns took a hard hit. Burns had to pivot; but he learned from it.

ONYX MAGAZINE 41

Scope FLORIDA

Commissioner George Oliver, Natalie Ford, Nadine Ford-West, Former State Rep. Dr. Alzo Reddick, Congresswoman Val Demings, Commissioner, Victoria Siplin, Former State Senator Gary Siplin

Post Office Named in Honor of Commissioner Nap Ford In March, elected officials and community leaders joined the family and friends of the beloved City Commissioner Napoleon Ford as the Orlo Vista Post Office was renamed in his honor. Napoleon Ford affectionately called “Nap” was an Orlando native who overcame segregation to serve 18 years on the Orlando City Council.

Born Sept. 18, 1927, Ford lived most of his life in homes just west of downtown Orlando. For decades, it was one of the few Orlando communities open to blacks. Unable to try out for a major-league baseball team due to segregation, Ford attended South Carolina State College and began his lifelong career as an educator, teaching and coaching at Jones High School, Winter Park High School, and the University of Central Florida.

As a civil rights pioneer, Ford understood the power of elected representation and was instrumental in getting the first black elected to the council by campaigning for Pappy Kennedy in 1972. District 5 was created in 1980 to ensure black representation. Ford was the district’s sole representative on the council until his retirement in 1998.

Throughout his 18-year tenure, Commissioner Ford championed rebuilding Orlando’s historic African American communities that, due to segregation, were often passed over during the city’s booming mid-century growth. With the belief that “no city is any stronger than its weakest neighborhood,” Ford successfully advocated for local banks to provide mortgages to working fami-

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lies, construction of new affordable housing, and community centers to anchor those historic neighborhoods.

One of Ford’s lifelong passions was trying to save Parramore.

City Commissioner Regina Hill spoke of her first meeting Ford at the AMVET’s and recalled his fervent love and commitment for the neighborhood. Other speakers at the dedication ceremony included Dr. Clara Walters, former educator and Principal of Jones High, Reggie McGill, Representative for City of Orlando Mayor Dyer, and Dr. Alzo Reddick. All fondly remembered Ford and his impact on their lives and in the community.

The Orlo Vista Post Office located at 501 South Kirkman Road was designated by legislation, H.R. 6591, introduced by U.S Representative Val Demings in the 115th Congress. Representative Demings’ legislation was cosponsored by the entire Florida Congressional delegation and signed into law by President Trump on December 21, 2018.

Commissioner Ford’s wife, Becky was joined by their 2 daughters, Nadine, who beautifully sang the National Anthem and Natalie Ford-West, who spoke lovingly of the father she knew at home.

Orlando’s Postmaster Diane Tindle and other Post Office officials presented a dedicatory plaque to the family. The official plaque will be displayed in a place of prominence allowing all who enter the opportunity to reflect upon the life of Commissioner Ford.

MUSIC NOTES Motown Celebrates 60 Years

No matter how old you are, you have crooned, rocked, danced, even boogied to the undeniable “Motown Sound.” Motown spans generations and crosses color lines, bringing the world together with its powerful hits. Now, Motown turns 60 and the world is celebrating. In February, the Grammy Awards showcased a special tribute to the music empire. The 60th anniversary special aired on CBS in April. Motown was originally founded by Berry Gordy Jr. as Tamla Records on January 12, 1959, and was incorporated as Motown Record Corporation on April 14, 1960.

Its name, a portmanteau of motor and town, has become a nickname for Detroit, where the label was originally headquartered. Its hitmakers have included Smokey Robinson, The Jackson 5ive, The Supremes, and later artists like Ne-Yo, Erykah Badu and Kem, among a slew of others—too many to name. Congratulations on 60 awesome years!

Queen of Soul Posthumously Wins Prestigious Award

The late, great Aretha Franklin has been awarded a Pulitzer Prize. A release issued by the Pulitzer Prize organization cites the Queen received a Special Citation “for her indelible contribution to American music and culture for more than five decades.” She is the first individual woman to receive a special citation prize, since the recognition debuted in 1930. According to her website, her many countless classics include “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “Chain Of Fools,” “I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)”; her own compositions “Think,” “Daydreaming” and “Call Me”; her definitive versions of “Respect” and “I Say A Little Prayer”; and global hits like “Freeway Of Love,” “Jump To It,” “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me),” her worldwide chart-topping duet with George Michael, and “A Rose Is Still A Rose.” The recipient of the U.S.A.’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal Of Freedom, an eighteen (and counting) GRAMMY Award winner – the most recent of which was for Best Gospel Performance for “Never Gonna Break My Faith” with Mary J. Blige in 2008 – a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement and GRAMMY Living Legend awardee, Aretha Franklin’s powerful, distinctive gospel-honed vocal style has influenced countless singers across multi-generations, justifiably earning her Rolling Stone magazine’s No. 1 placing on the list of “The Greatest Singers Of All Time.” Franklin died last August at 76 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Music Loses a Promising Artist

Rapper Nipsey Hussle died on April 1 after a shooting in Los Angeles near a clothing store he owned, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Two other people were injured in the shooting. In 2010, Hussle, 33, whose birth name was Ermias Davidson Asghedom, founded the record label All Money In, which he debuted with the release of “The Marathon,” the rapper’s fifth official mixtape. Hussle was praised for his efforts to end gang violence. He had been scheduled to meet with LA Police Commissioner Steve Soboroff and LAPD Chief Michael Moore days before his death to discuss the topic. Former President Barack Obama paid tribute to Hussle in a letter that was read at a memorial for the late musician and community activist. In it, Pres. Obama wrote “While most folks look at the Crenshaw neighborhood where he grew up and see only gangs, bullets and despair, Nipsey saw potential. He saw hope….His choice to invest in that community rather than ignore it—to build a skills training center and a co-working space in Crenshaw…is a legacy worthy of celebration.” Hussle was in a relationship with longtime girlfriend actress Lauren London. He was the father of two.

Funk Fest Tour Upcoming Dates Saturday, May 25 Legion Field Birmingham, Ala. Saturday, June 15 Riverfront Park Louisville, Ky.

ONYX MAGAZINE 43

TRAVEL

Bucket List Travel Destinations for 2019

T

aking time to go on vacation or to just unplug from everyday life can be beneficial, and there’s certainly no lack of options when it comes to choosing an ideal vacation spot. The options for experiencing an amazing vacation are so plentiful, such as exploring a cruise port, eating and drinking your way around a city or simply visiting a new destination, you may find yourself struggling to narrow down the choices.

By focusing first on what type of vacation experience you would enjoy most, the details of the location may more easily fall into place.

“Often, would-be vacationers get so hung up on figuring out where they want to go, they forget to consider what they’ll do when they get there,” said Matthew Phillips, director of travel for AARP Services, Inc. “It makes sense to keep location in mind when it comes to considerations like climate, but knowing what types of activities, entertainment and sights you hope to experience can help ensure you plan a travel experience of a lifetime.”

Once you’ve determined how you’d like to spend your time, you can begin to explore some hot travel destinations, such as these: 44 ONYX MAGAZINE

Florida Gulf Coast: The warmer seasons are perfect for unplugging and relaxing by the sand and water. Head to the beaches of Florida and get a room with a view so the water is never out of reach. For example, Sarasota, Florida offers miles of beaches, including Siesta Key, known for its majestic waters and luxurious amenities.

California: Rent a car and take a road trip down the California coast and experience sunshine, culture and more as you drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

It may be one single coastline, but California is filled with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and tourist attractions, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Hollywood sign.

Caribbean: There are few better ways to escape the cold weather than with a Caribbean cruise, where breathtaking excursions, first-rate cuisine, exciting nightlife and spectacular entertainment fill every day and night. There are dozens of cruise options available, so it’s a good idea to do plenty of research and look into special incentives and offers to complement the experience. For example, the AARP Travel Center provides exclusive offers to members on select cruises, including up to $1,000 in onboard credit.

Southwest France: Explore the beautiful wine-growing region of Southwest France through a fascinatingly historical and invigorating river cruise. For example, the Uniworld Bordeaux river cruise allows guests to sail three rivers: the Garonne, the Dordogne and the Gironde. The experience blends land and water with archaeological and historical tours, artisanal wine tastings, sprawling gardens and charming villages to explore. Take your experience a step further and see the sights while feeling like a local by going on a spotlight tour, an intimate way to uncover hidden gems.

Singapore: If you want to immerse yourself into a completely new and unique culture, hop on a flight and explore Singapore, commonly referred to as a “shopper’s paradise” for its emerging brands and bargains stores. Enjoy both the urban and natural attractions while indulging in the eclectic dining scene. Singaporean cuisine is full of diverse plates, such as bak kut teh, laksa and friend carrot cake, derived from several ethnic groups.

If you’re ready to start planning a satisfying getaway, a resource like AARP Member Benefits can assist with planning and saving money along the way.

Story by Family Features

REAL ESTATE

5

REASONS YOU SHOULD MOVE IN THE SUMMER

Summer is peak season for selling a home. Now is a great time to add value to your home with landscaping projects to boost curb appeal or take advantage of fair weather to declutter and prep your home for potential buyers. Here are our top 5 reasons to consider moving in the summer.

1. Summer Yard Sales

When you’re considering selling a home, it’s important to declutter and deep clean to make your home picture perfect for open houses and viewings. Garage sales are popular in summer months, so take advantage of this time to get rid of everything that’s just collecting dust. If you’re looking to clear up some clutter, the weather is perfect for having a garage sale of your own. If you’re furnishing a new home, this is a great opportunity to pick up unique, one-of-a-kind items.

2. Peak Season for Real Estate

Both home buyers and sellers pick this time of year to get the ball rolling. More houses on the market means more opportunities for home buyers to view different properties. This is a great season for buyers who might be picky and are eager to find their dream home. Alternately, there are tons of buyers ready to move in the summer, making it the perfect season to hold an open house.

3. Jumpstart Outdoor Projects

If you’re thinking about adding a bit of curb appeal to your home before selling, the start of summer offers ideal weather for outdoor projects you’ve been putting off. Use this time to start an herb garden in your new home, or add some value by treating your yard to some fresh landscaping.

4. School’s Out

It’s hard enough trying to finish your to-do list during the school year. Having the kids on vacation is a huge plus when you need a few extra hands helping with packing and unpacking. Summer is the perfect time to settle in and make your house a home.

5. Community Events

It’s important to be connected in your community. Chances are, your new neighborhood or town as a schedule of summer events that are perfect for getting to know your community and local attractions. It’s also a great time to meet your current neighbors or people who are thinking about moving in. Food trucks, outdoor concerts and farmers markets are all popular events in the summer.

Summer is the perfect time to take on home projects, whether you’re selling or buying. Make sure you know what those updates to your home are worth. Our home value assessment is free, and is a great place to start before you move @ www.ParkerRealtyGroupFL.com.

This information in this article was compiled by Dee Parker, President Parker Realty Group and Chair of ONYX Magazine Advisory Committee.

ONYX MAGAZINE 45

WOMEN’S FASHION

Sunglass Sensations Colors, cats, and collaboration — Six Sunglass Sensations to rock your world

By Lena Graham-Morris

This season use your eyewear to make a statement. Create a harmonious facial balance while exhibiting style and grace!

1. Color Coated — Grace your face with

color this season. Colored lenses are the rave as well as color accents on portions of the frame, rim and handles. A pop of color can accent your natural hues. Find a shade that makes a statement and accentuates your natural undertones.

3. Bring the Bling — There was no shortage of bling, rhinestones, and sparkle on the runways for those so inclined. For women seeking out heavy opulence for the fall season, this summer’s sunglasses trend will be something of a siren song. Jewels and precious stones are perfect for the woman who veers toward the excesses of fashion.

4. The Cat’s Out of the Bag — Pointed cat eye sunglasses are assertive and distinct.

They are not pretending to be anything other than what they are. This decisiveness is appealing for women who know who they are and know what they want.

5. Oversized and Ultra-Round —

Unapologetic without being overly aggressive, round sunglasses give an eclectic appearance. Be bold and feel. Eccentric energy—perfect for a woman, who loves to channel the inner diva.

late 1960s have been rebirthed with a sci-fi flare. The bold is stark and sleek with a brazen silhouette. Look for unusual shapes to frame your face. You will be drawn to this style if you seek to push boundaries and be memorable.

NO MATTER WHAT TREND YOU DECIDE, KEEP A FEW THINGS IN MIND: • Budget – Set aside your budget before your shopping excursion.

Note: If you wear prescription glasses, your investment may be a bit more. Decide what allows you to make a statement but keeps in line with your budgetary commitments.

• Personal Style – Understand what your style is and the statement you wish to make.

• Facial Shape – Understand your facial shape and what accentuates your features.

• Hair Style – Take your hairstyle, cut, etc. into consideration as you make your decision.

• Skin tone – Chose a pattern or color that will highlight your skin tone.

Lena Graham-Morris, The Entreprenista®, is the executive strategist of ONYX Magazine.

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6. Mod Squad — The future is here, the

Adobe.com

2. Tortoiseshell and Texture — You can never lose with tortoiseshell patterns— they add dimension and complexity to your life! Tortoiseshell sunglasses are neutral with a twist. They help to cultivate a feeling of texture, complexity, and dimensionality and never go out of style.

MEN’S FASHION

How to Look Sophisticated ONYX Staff Report

You may be in Florida, but if you are trying to make an impression, it’s time to pack away the flip-flops and shorts, and pull out those expensive, polished shoes for an accomplished look. You don’t have to stop there. Dressing well is just the starting point.

The following tips will help you to appear truly sophisticated all year long.

Stay two steps ahead

Whether it’s an upcoming client meeting or a weekend fete, sophistication is a mere keystroke away. Plan your day ahead by researching the who, what, when, where and why for whatever event is on tomorrow’s calendar. Make sure you have gathered all you need days before the event. Want to really swing for the fences? Go to your appointment or event five minutes early.

Adobe.com

Bring a gift

While not required, it is always appreciated. Nothing says class like someone who arrives with a bottle of wine, a seasonal floral arrangement or even just some homemade baked goods. A small, subtle gift for a host or hostess can go a long way in establishing that sophisticated image you desire.

Put the pen to work

Dust off that box of thank-you cards you stashed in your bottom desk drawer, and get to writing. Emails are nice but are used every day for everything. A thank-you card is more personal and serves one purpose: to make a person feel appreciated. Take note of the important people in your life who deserve a special shoutout. Add your own penmanship and a postage stamp, and you are bound to earn at least a few sophistication points for being thoughtful.

Use the Internet

Whether it’s staying up on current events or knowing a few details about your favorite 19th-century artist or author, these little-known facts will give you something to talk about in any social setting, helping you appear more approachable and knowledgeable. Get in the habit of using the World Wide Web to glean fun tidbits and major headlines.

ONYX MAGAZINE 47

ON THE

QUAD Florida Memorial University Names Permanent President

Edward Waters College Steps Up Admission Requirements

As Florida Memorial University (FMU) celebrates 140 years of service in higher education, FMU’s Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Jaffus Hardrick as its 14th president, effective immediately.

The board originally tapped Hardrick to serve as interim president in July 2018.

During the Institution’s annual Founders’ Day observance, Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver G. Gilbert, III, boldly declared, “Something is happening at Florida Memorial University.

There is new energy and it is exciting.” The same sentiments have been shared by many key leaders throughout South Florida and the country. Many have expressed support for and have endorsed Hardrick as the right leader for FMU. “Dr. Hardrick is an ambitious and visionary leader who has demonstrated a commitment to student success and academic excellence throughout his career,” said Attorney JoLinda Herring, chair of FMU’s Board of Trustees. “He brings a wealth of experience and we want to continue the momentum. It is truly a new day at FMU.” An award-winning academic executive, Hardrick comes to South Florida’s only historically Black university with more than 20 years of experience in higher education.

He worked for than ten years at Florida International University (FIU) where he served as vice provost for Access and Success and vice president of Human Resources. Under Hardrick’s leadership, FIU earned national recognition from “Forbes,” “Fortune,” and the “Chronicle of Higher Education” among other organizations. Prior to FMU, he worked at Baylor University for 12 years serving as assistant provost for Academic Affairs and vice president of Human Resources.

Edward Waters College (EWC) recently took an audacious first step in recasting the College’s overall academic and institutional profile by establishing new heightened admissions standards for entering students beginning Fall 2019. Consistent with a bold new vision foreshadowing a promising future of limitless institutional potential, EWC’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the adoption of new minimum GPA and SAT/ACT entrance requirements at its February meeting.

“In keeping with one of this administration’s foremost strategic priorities, we intend to strengthen our academic profile by comprehensively inaugurating a more rigorous and competitively excellent academic experience at EWC which begins with setting a new standard of expectation with regard to the future profile of the entering EWC student” said EWC President & CEO, Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. For many years EWC has operated as an “open admissions” institution citing a historic mission dedicated to providing access and opportunity to students. The “open admissions” policy operated in part to give students a chance to overcome socioeconomic and other challenges that often correlated with low performance on standardized college entrance exams and/or a less than stellar academic performance record in high school.

Nevertheless, while the College can certainly point to a number of remarkable individual success stories under the open admissions era, institutional data divulged that those individual successes generally proved to be the exception and not the rule.

Accordingly, the College has experienced some challenges with regard to meeting institutional expectations toward positively impacting overall retention, persistence, and graduation outcomes.

To support that contention EWC raised its institutional admissions standards while also simultaneously announcing the creation of the new Charles H. Pearce Institute. The new five-week college credit bearing summer early-start program will offer participants who successfully complete the program (by earning passing grades of C or higher in each of its associated freshman level courses) full nonconditional admission to the historic institution.

ONYX MAGAZINE 49

ONYX ON THE MOVE

Sponsors surround Woman of the Year Dr. Melissa Freeman

Dr. Melissa Freeman (front), her niece Melissa Freeman and Publicist Levern Williams

Dr. Melissa Freeman was interviewed by Annetta Wilson

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G. Moody Band

ONYX CEO Richard “Rich” E. Black

Photos by Brion Price

ONYX Magazine Hosts Women’s History Month Kickoff Reception to Introduce Woman of the Year ONYX Magazine in Orlando, Fla., welcomed 92-yearold Dr. Melissa Freeman, the first doctor in the nation to treat women with opioid addiction using a methadone maintenance modality of treatment. During the prelude to ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move Awards, Annetta Wilson, former news anchor and president of Annetta Wilson Media Training, conducted a short interview with Dr. Freeman. ONYX Magazine also unveiled the March/April issue of ONYX Magazine Woman of the Year salute to Dr. Freeman. More than 100 community members attended the event.

Special thanks go to event sponsors Founding Member Orlando Health; Yolanda Lee of Lee Vista, proprietor of Outback Steakhouse; and Tupperware.

COMMUNITY

Women on the Move Dynamic women across Florida applauded for their work

Guests are calling it “the best one yet!”

ONYX Magazine’s fourth annual Women on the Move (WOTM) in March left more than 300 guests buzzing about how the 2020 event could possibly get any better. From powerful speeches that riled the audience; to influential people commanding selfies; to a pioneering medical guru gracing the stage, the 2019 event had all the elements of a first-class celebration to honor Florida’s finest women in business and community.

The unmatched energy billowed as each speaker stepped to the podium: starting with a resounding prayer by Pastor Shirley Riley of Agape Perfecting Praise Worship Center. She was followed by keynote speaker Angela Suggs, the president and CEO of the Florida Sports Foundation. In her speech, Suggs incorporated the talents and accomplishments of each honoree bringing the crowd to their feet.

ONYX Magazine President and CEO Rich Black thanked the guests for their continued support and recalled why he was moved to establish ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move.

“As my siblings and I were talking about the significant accomplishments of my father, my mother said, your father was a king because I am a queen and a king maker.” Her words prompted him to elevate all women who take pride in supporting their spouses, children, communities and industries.

However, the two-hour event came to a halt when 92-year-old Melissa Freeman, M.D., gingerly stepped up to take her place at the microphone. The audience members’ tears of joy accompanied their outpouring of cheers for the physician who is the first in the nation to treat women with opioid addiction using a methadone maintenance modality of treatment.

Dr. Freeman regaled the audience with stories of her journey and encouraged them, “as long as you have breath in your body, don’t stop. Keep going.” The audience stood during her entire speech and hung on to her every word. Dr. Freeman has been heralded by numerous organizations and has inspired interviews with Robin Roberts on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” the BBC and other networks.

Each of the 22 honorees walked up one-by-one as her name was called to receive her honor. She received a beautiful engraved glass award, a wall certificate, and a swag bag full of decadent gifts from local merchants, including a full set of Tupperware from sponsor Tupperware Brands.

Dignitaries and corporate leaders from across Florida filed into the ballroom at the elegant Alfond Inn in Winter Park, which had 52 ONYX MAGAZINE

Cliff Porter, Ph.D. of B-CU, ONYX CEO Rich Black, Woman of the Year Dr. Melissa Freeman, Marisol Romany of Founding Partner Orlando Health

U.S. Representative Val Demings and ONYX Co-Founder Lester Seays

Keynote Speaker Angela Suggs

been decorated with cream and gold accents. Attendees noshed on salmon, herb chicken, vegetables and delectable desserts handcrafted by the Alfond Inn chefs. While they dined, guests grooved to the jazz sounds of Lady Smooth Sax, JoAnna Fleming, a saxophonist in Orlando. They got up and danced while also snapping pictures and videos of friends.

Chaired by Deidre “Dee” Parker of Parker Realty and Nancy Port Schwalb of Schwalb Public Relations, the 2019 WOTM did not disappoint. The theme, “Visionary Champions,” highlighted women who have shattered the glass ceiling in their professions and persevered against all odds. ONYX Magazine collaborated with Founding Partner Orlando Health and Presenting Sponsor Samuel B. Ings, City of Orlando Commissioner in District 5, to present these phenomenal women; trailblazers who are leading major businesses to succeed on national and international levels in several professional disciplines.

Photos by Brion Price

ONYX Staff Report

WOTM Co-chair Nancy Port Schwalb, International Woman on the Move Dancia Pence, and WOTM Chair Deidre “Dee” Parker

Women on the Move with Lester Seays

Event Sponsors with Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill

June Ings, Presenting Sponsor Commissioner Samuel B. Ings, Barbara Hartley

Pastor Shirley Riley

Gayle Andrews, Stephany Fall, Emcee Carolyn Fennell

Letecia Adams and Lena Graham-Morris

Honorees Paulette Walker, Ph.D., and Carolyn House Stewart, Esq.

Monica Riley, Gabrielle Ingram, Jessica Ceballos of Tupperware.

Entertainment by Lady Smoot Sax JoAnna Fleming

ONYX MAGAZINE 53

FOOD AND WINE

CLASSIC OLD FASHIONED Be sure to have your favorite drink in hand when your pic for the Kentucky Derby rounds the bend. That usually can be satisfied with a classic Old Fashioned—a spicy way to kick up bourbon. Bourbon is whiskey made in America. It is at least 51 percent corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least two years. It does not have to be made in Kentucky, contrary to popular belief, and you certainly don’t have to be there to drink it! Enjoy.

INGREDIENTS 2 teaspoons simple syrup 1 teaspoon water 2 dashes bitters 1 cup ice cubes 1 (1.5 fluid ounce) jigger bourbon whiskey 1 slice orange 1 maraschino cherry

DIRECTIONS Pour the simple syrup, water, and bitters into a whiskey glass. Stir to combine, then place the ice cubes in the glass. Pour bourbon over the ice and garnish with the orange slice and maraschino cherry.

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