PowerPlay Magazine Second Quarter Issue by PowerPlay Magazine

SIC THE MU

ISSUE

5top

Nightspots

in central Arkansas

JJ’ S Good Times ASCAP’s Jonathan Jones Rocks the Music Industry

Connecting Great Products with Great People Goddess Products, Inc. (GPI) is the largest Service-Disabled Veteran Minority Owned office products and furniture company within the state of Arkansas. GPI was established in 2006 and over the years has continued to look for innovative ways to service the industry while providing exceptional customer service. Successful public sector sales has supplied GPI with a solid foundation. And as a Tier 1 partner with Office Depot, GPI offers even more competitive pricing on products for the federal government, state agencies and private sector businesses. Goddess Products, Inc. embraces complete customer satisfaction by hiring people who like to help people. The Goddess Team has the product knowledge, personal care and patience to help find the best business solution.

Gary and LeAnna Godley Gary and LeAnna are the CEO and President of Goddess Products, Inc.

editor’s letter

Connecting

The Piano Lesson

hen I was a young girl, my parents bought a lovely piano and hatched a plan for their eldest to take lessons. What they didn’t figure on is the instructor they’d chosen, a highly-recommended retired music teacher, would scare out of me any measure of talent I might have possessed. The bi-weekly drive to Mrs. Douglas’ house made my hands sweat profusely and my little heart race with anxiety. To forego playing with my friends to have to face my music teacher’s wrath was in no way my idea of being a musician. To this day, whenever I hear “How Great Thou Art” I can clearly visualize Mrs. Douglas’ wrinkled knuckles pounding out the hymn and her worn voice loudly confessing: Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee: How Great Thou Art, How Great Thou Art… After which, she would turn to me and expect me to play it just.the.way.she.did. Impossible! Let’s stay connected! @sericiacole @sericia Facebook/SericiaCole

That hymn was the one song I learned to play semi-fluently by memory —and that was mostly due to not wanting Mrs. Douglas to rap my knuckles (as she always promised). Though I now believe her to have been a really sweet woman and truly passionate music educator, Mrs. Douglas’ bluffs did me in. Needless to say, I was forced into early retirement by a lack of innate talent, not nearly enough practice time, and an irrational and paralyzing fear of my teacher. Because of my experience, and not in spite of, I have the utmost respect for musicians who were either gifted prodigies from the moment they tried an instrument (like my husband) or those who stuck with lessons from maestros like Mrs. Douglas and practiced religiously in pursuit of mastery.

Hip-hop isn’t ready! Check out Flashlight $lim’s hustle and flow at reverbnation.com/ flashlightslim

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I may not be a musician, but I know for sure that there aren’t many things with the power to unite, thrill and move us like music, which made it an easy decision to dedicate this issue to the art form.

For our first-ever Music Issue, we found all-stars all around us: performing at concerts, churches, festivals, casinos, fundraisers and headlining club dates. Over the next few pages we spotlight a few of these spectacular gospel and soul singers, country and blues artists, hip-hop and jazz heads. We got an idea of why they push past challenges—naysayers, dearth of opportunities, lack of resources, their own doubts even—to bring us the music that’s in their hearts. It was definitely fear that robbed me of learning to play the piano. So imagine how delighted I am now to see my eldest child chase his musical dreams! (When he was growing up I would routinely come across scraps of paper and notebooks riddled with rhymes; he was practicing!) As my son becomes a studio rat, writes and releases tracks, performs shows, and works to market his brand, I am so glad he isn’t allowing trepidation to hold him hostage. While they say the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, in this case, I’m thankful that Flashlight $lim—as my son is known to his fans—has the courage to follow his own beat. Write me at sericia@powerplaymag.com or tweet me @sericia and share your earliest music memory (did you play an instrument?) or to let me know how music has shaped your life.

All the best, always, Sericia Cole Editor-in-Chief sericia@powerplaymag.com

contributors

s e c o n d

q u a r t e r

2 0 1 4

Founder and Publisher Darren Peters darren@powerplaymag.com Editor-in-Chief Sericia Cole sericia@powerplaymag.com Managing Editor Candace L. Randle candace@powerplaymag.com Creative Director George Frederick Nash

Contributors Jennelle Primm Joi White Chemia Woods Special Contributors Roger Robinson (Quality Video) Randall Lee (Contemporary Imaging) Sales & Marketing Sanci Hughes Richardson sanci@powerplaymag.com

Opinions expressed in articles, commentaries, letters or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Cover and contents may not be reproduced or reprinted in any form or medium without prior written permission. PowerPlay Magazine considers unsolicited manuscripts, the however publisher cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited materials that do not include a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope of sufficient size. Please do not send manuscripts by email. While effort has been made to verify the accuracy of information presented in this issue, neither PowerPlay Magazine, nor its staff, is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Powerplay Magazine encourages mail from readers. Please send letters to editor@powerplaymag. com. Include your full name, daytime phone number and mailing address. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

CHEMIA WOODS is a mass media professional with a background in radio, public relations, marketing and event planning. A magna cum laude graduate of Missouri Western State University (she earned a degree in speech communication with an emphasis in Spanish), Woods obtained a master’s degree in mass communication and media studies with a certificate in international studies from Howard University in Washington, D.C. Woods, also known by her on-air personality at Little Rock’s KTZS “Streetz” 101.1 FM, put her radio knowledge to good use in our Music Issue by helping us profile a few of the state’s well-known and up-and-coming musical artists. The central Arkansas native enjoys lending her PR and eventsplanning skills to organizations such as the National Association of Black Men United, the Josh Selby Foundation and Dream Girls – ARK and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Everyone knows by now that JOI WHITE is a true fashionista who has channeled her passion for fashion into a thriving career working with BCBG Max Azria, Chloe, and now as senior visual merchandising manager for the Intimates and Underwear division at Calvin Klein. White, who lives in New York but fervently reps her Little Rock hometown, holds a dual degree in fashion marketing/ merchandising and fashion product development from the University of Missouri-Columbia. With more than 10 years experience under her belt in visual merchandising, personal styling and retail services, White was more than happy to direct this issue’s Rhythm at the Seams fashion feature. To stay abreast of her latest projects, followi @joithestylist on Instagram and be sure to shop White’s closet cleanout sale, Shame on me, Fabulous on You, which is exclusive to Arkansas. SANCI HUGHES RICHARDSON has joined PowerPlay Magazine as director of sales and marketing. The North Little Rock native has worked with numerous businesses and political campaigns, and has aided nongovernmental and government agencies and corporate clients to meet a variety of objectives. In her day job, Richardson works with the Delta Regional Authority, where she is engaged in the agency’s mission of building communities in the Mississippi Delta through economic development investments and programmatic focus on improving lives and creating jobs. Through her work with the BRIDGE Consulting Group, LLC., Richardson also contributes her public relations and business marketing expertise in the areas of community and economic development, grassroots organizing and outreach. www.powerplaymag.com

feedback

Your Words

It was very impressive and moving reading PowerPlay. I pray you will continue to publish. I would like to see some of our youth who dare to have a vision highlighted also. Howard Starks, Jr. PowerPlay is a terrific magazine! Sherece Y. West-Scantlebury I finally got my copy … I’m excited to start reading! Erica Holmes Love the new issue! Tamika Edwards The PowerPlay issue looks great! Angelica Gooley We heard from quite a few of the ‘20 Playmakers’ featured in the re-launch issue (1st Quarter, 2014). Whether it was an e-mail or a post on social media, we were glad to know they were pleased with their hard-earned recognition. I have been meaning for some time to share this extremely well put together magazine that’s back on the scene in Arkansas … PowerPlay magazine. Congratulations to Darren Peters and Sericia Cole for putting together an excellent product for public consumption. I am honored to be listed among the 20 Playmakers! Idonia Trotter This is simply beautiful! So glad you are back! Sylvester Smith African Americans in Arkansas and all other Arkansans strongly support PowerPlay and have been calling for its return to circulation in Arkansas since 2008. Frank D. Scott, Jr. I am honored to be recognized by PowerPlay magazine! And I am truly excited that it will make a return to Arkansas. We need it. Lamar Davis PowerPlay I’m so glad it’s returned to us! Colette Honorable Promoting books and literary arts activities put me in the company of power players in the recent issue of PowerPlay magazine. Thank you PowerPlay for acknowledging the importance and POWER of books and literacy. Patrick Oliver

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ON THE COVER: The uber-talented and ubiquitous trumpeter Rodney Block was photographed by Randell Lee / Contemporary Imaging on June 12, 2014 at Ernie Biggs in Little Rock.

contents

The MUSIC issue COVER ● STORY

MAKES THE 23 MUSIC WORLD GO ‘ROUND By Chemia Woods This time of year is all about the music. MAGAZINE gives a shout out to a few of Arkansas’s innovative music makers—fronted by trumpeter Rodney Block—who are specialists at tickling our ears, keeping us snapping and clapping along. SPECIAL MUSIC FEATURE

IS THE CHARM 31 ByTROIS Sericia Cole

In just two years, Tracy Johnson has seen his goal of a big-city feel nightclub go from dream to reality with his Club TROIS. The entertainment entrepreneur discusses his track record to success and how he has worked to put his stamp on the Capital City’s nightlife. FEATURE

GOT RHYTHM & SOUL 41 ByHE’S Candace L. Randle

Jonathan “JJ” Jones knew in junior high school that a career in the music industry was what he wanted. That aspiration has driven him from Arkansas to New York where he has a major impact on some of today’s hottest and most popular urban artists.

in every issue 4 EDITOR’S LETTER 5 CONTRIBUTORS 8 POWER SURGE 9 PAUSE 38 POWER MOVES

ON THIS PAGE:

The Boss Tracy Johnson is making beautiful, sweet music as the owner/CEO of Little Rock’s CLUB TROIS.

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power surge

Promotions | Appointment | Honors

Ta m i k a E d w a r d s has joined Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families as director of governmental affairs. A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Edwards holds a master’s degree in professional and technical writing from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a law degree from UALR’s William H. Bowen School of Law. In her new position, Edwards will be a key member of AACF’s legislative team helping to develop legislative strategy and direct legislative relations work. The Little Rock native was previously director of public policy at Southern Bancorp Community Partners. __________________________________ Pulaski Technical College has promoted Ganelle Holman to executive director of its nonprofit fundraising and private gift-receiving foundation. Holman graduated the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a bachelor of arts degree in theatre and a master’s in education. Previously, Holman served as major gifts officer at the Northwest Arkansas chapter of the American Red Cross before joining Pulaski Technical College as events and volunteer manager. __________________________________ The Arkansas Farm Bureau has named Stanley Hill as its vice president of public policy. An Arkadelphia, Arkansas, native, Hill has worked for the Farm Bureau for 20 years, most recently as its associate director of governmental affairs. He graduated from the University of Arkansas and also worked for Worthen Bank and First Commercial Bank. __________________________________ Maxine Allen was appointed as assistant director of mission and ministry for mission field engagement for the Arkansas United Methodist Conference, a newly reconfigured position. The first African American woman ordained as an elder in the United Methodist Church in Arkansas, Allen is a Philander Smith College and Gammon Theological Seminary graduate. Prior to this appointment, she was director of the Wesley Foundation at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 8

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H onors & A ppointments Khayyam M. Eddings has received the 2014 Lawyer Citizen Award from the Pulaski County Bar Association in recognition of excellent performance of civic responsibilities and for demonstrating high standards of professional competence and conduct. Eddings is a partner

The Presiding Bishop and the General Board of the Church Of God In Christ, Inc., recommended and unanimously approved the promotion of Robert G. Rudolph, Jr., to the office of Auxiliary Bishop. Currently a district superintendent and pastor of the Calvary COGIC in Malvern, Arkansas, and Davis Memorial COGIC in Crossett, Rudolph will be consecrated as a bishop at the 107th International Holy Convocation in St. Louis, Mo. For the past seven years he has served as scribe of the national adjutancy and as the Assistant General Secretary for Records/ Archives.

Tjuana Byrd was honored with the 2014 University of Arkansas at Little Rock Alumni Association President’s Award, given each year to an individual who has experienced career success along with demonstrated dedication to the university. A lawyer in private practice, Byrd holds a degree in criminal justice from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a juris doctorate from the William H. Bowen School of Law.

in the Labor and Employment Litigation Section of the Friday, Eldredge & Clark law firm in Little Rock. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and the Bowen School of Law at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

People | News | Events

pause

Armstrong To Lead House Democratic Caucus

emocrats in the Arkansas House of Representatives have elected Rep. Eddie Armstrong of North Little Rock as their new leader. The first-term legislator was selected as House Minority Leader at a Democratic caucus meeting in June, replacing Rep. Greg Leding of Fayetteville who did not seek re-election.

“I’m honored the caucus thought enough to put me in this position,” Armstrong told Talk Business

Arkansas Black Hall Of Fame Foundation

& Politics, adding that he would be working to bring House Democrats together in the next session, saying he wants unity, transparency and strong communication from his House caucus.

Armstrong represents District 37, which includes North Little Rock and portions of Pulaski County. The North Little Rock High School graduate earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Arkansas.

Joe Johnson Skills Camp

Arkansas Razorback and seven-time F ormer In Memoriam NBA All-star Joe Johnson of the Brooklyn

GRANTS PROGRESS Representatives of the 18 organizations receiving grant awards from the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation are photographed with ABHOF Chairman Charles O. Stewart (top row, center).

a decade the Arkansas Black F orHallmoreof than Fame Foundation has supported

communities across the state through projects focused on education, health and wellness, youth development and small business/ economic development designed specifically to target African American and other underserved populations.

Nets will once again help boys and girls in his hometown hone their basketball skills. The Little Rock Central High School graduate is set to host a two-day skills camp July 31-August 1 at the Lutheran High School (6711 Markham Street) in Little Rock, open to boys and girls ages 10-18. The tuition fee to participate is $50 and includes a t-shirt, gym bag and lunch both days. The camp’s registration deadline is coming up soon, so contact Mall Hall at (501) 3889178 or Carl Vault (501) 349-5382 for more information.

At a June ceremony at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, the ABHOF Foundation awarded 18 organizations a total of $41,878 in grants to serve minority and under-served communities through a fund administered by the Arkansas Community Foundation. “The funds from the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation meet a great need for small grants to community based organizations working to make a difference in their communities,” said Charles O. Stewart, chairman of the ABHOF Foundation. This year’s recipients will use their grant funding for initiatives ranging from adult literacy tutoring to computer training for residents of impoverished neighborhoods. A complete listing of 2014 grant recipients is available online at www.arcf.org. More information about the ABHOF can be found at www.arblackhalloffame.org.

LAWRENCE HAMILTON

awrence Hamilton was raised in small town Foreman, Arkansas, but the bright lights of Broadway made him a star. Hamilton died April 3 at the age of 59 in a New York City hospital after complications from surgery. The former musical director for opera phenom Jessye Norman was a beloved and talented figure, having performed for former president Ronald Reagan and at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II. The Henderson State University graduate boasted of credits in the Broadway hits Play On, Jelly’s Last Jam and Ragtime and was a one-time vocal coach for pop group New Kids on the Block. A member of both the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Entertainers Hall of Fame, he had also served Little Rock’s Philander Smith College as cultural affairs director and assistant professor of humanities. Everyone’s friend, Hamilton was a native son and extraordinary talent whom Arkansas will never forget.

N EW N A AC P L E A D E R S H I P

oon to take over the top spot at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is Cornell Williams Brooks, 53, who will leave his role as president and CEO of the Newark-based New Jersey Institute for Social Justice for the helm of the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization.

The human rights activist and longtime attorney replaces interim leader Lorraine Miller who had served in the post following the departure of

Benjamin Todd Jealous after five years as president. Brooks is to be formally introduced to the NAACP membership at the group’s national convention in Las Vegas in July.

A Georgetown, South Carolina, native, Brooks will be the 18th national president in the organization’s history. Also a minister, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Jackson State University, a master of divinity from Boston University School of Theology, and a law degree from Yale. www.powerplaymag.com

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People | News | Events

ARKANSAN TO LEAD LANE

Logan C. Hampton named 10th president of HBCU: Lane College

he board of trustees of Lane College, a small, private, historically Black college in Jackson, Tenn., announced the unanimous selection of Logan C. Hampton, Ed.D., of Little Rock as its 10th president in June. He succeeds the late Wesley McClure who was president at Lane College for more than 20 years prior to his death in 2013. Hampton, also pastor of the Bullock Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Little Rock, is a 1985 graduate of Arkansas Tech University. He holds a master’s degree in student personnel services from Northwestern State University in Louisiana and a doctorate in higher education from the University of Arkansas Little Rock. The former president of the Christian Ministerial Alliance in central Arkansas has worked at UALR since 1998. He served the 2013-2014 academic year as interim vice chancellor for educational, student services and student, having been named associate vice chancellor for student development and dean of students at UALR in 2011. He previously served in administrative capacities at Texas A&M University, Texas Christian University and the University of Central Arkansas. In a news release, Hampton said, “I am humbled and pleased to join this administration, faculty, and staff to assist the students in their matriculation and for them to realize ‘The Power of Potential.’ It will be my honor to serve in this community, East Jackson, City of Jackson, Madison County, and the State of Tennessee educating those who have earned the right to be educated.” Founded in 1882, Lane College is associated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

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SPOTLIGHT

Gospel songbird and Little Rock’s own Bethany Devine continues to use her extraordinary gift to uplift and inspire souls. Born the youngest of 10 children to a church-going and musicallyinclined family, this preacher’s kid has been singing publicly since the age of five and has been wowing-and-wooing audiences ever since. On the heels of her third solo CD, Daily Confessions, produced by the award-winning Asaph Alexander Ward and scheduled for release this year, Devine’s current single, “Miracle”, (available now on iTunes) is but a sample of the project’s offering of inspirational and encouraging adult contemporary songs that testify why this one-time BET Sunday Best contestant is among one of the best voices Arkansas has produced. www. bethanydevine.com

#FOLLOW THESE LEADERS Who are you keeping up with on social media? Email us at editor@powerplaymag.com and tell us who we should be following!

WORD “… In Arkansas, I learned to trust love, not the romance of it, but the heart of it. In Arkansas I learned to have respect for friendship, to honor it, to trust it and to build it...” -Dr. Maya Angelou, in a poetically apologetic letter explaining that an “unexpected ailment” was to blame for the cancellation of the Fayetteville Public Library’s “An Evening with Dr. Maya Angelou” scheduled for April 11, 2014. The Stamps, Arkansas, native was 86-years-old when she died in her home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on May 28, 2014. As a renowned literary voice she will be deeply cherished and as a friend to Arkansas, she will be unequivocally missed.

For his fantastic eye and sensational photography skills, we can spend an inordinate amount of time oohing and ahhing at the photo gallery curated by University of Central Arkansas student @drepic. At 11k followers and growing, we are clearly not the only ones mesmerized. <<Artez Irvin>> For her inspiration, openness, humor, transparency and maybe even a bit of randomness here and there, the Facebook page of this singer, teacher, preacher and all-around good friend @ www. facebook.com/dwallerpaige gets - and holds - our attention. <<Danita Waller-Paige>> For her up-front reporting and giving us a peek behind-the-scenes of morning television, the timeline of @Brittany4News, KARK-TV news reporter/anchor, is definitely one to tune into. <<Brittany Johnson>>

well-Rounded

well- round • ed (wĕl′roun′dĭd) adjective

1. Fully developed and balanced in a range or variety of subjects. 2. Steeped in culture. 3. Well-spoken. 4. Well-read. 5. Well-dressed.

True power players know how important it is to be well-rounded.

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well-rounded

Arts & Culture

FOR THE LOVE OF

heresa Timmons grew up with a love of the arts. But it was through community service that she noted disparity in opportunities for African American students in the arts, prompting her in 2011 to establish the Timmons Arts Foundation. A 501 c3 that strives to establish and expand arts and music programs for children, the TAF works with school districts and directly with students. And, with a signature fundraising event, The Designers Choice Fashion Preview, that has quickly become a hot runway ticket, Timmons tells Jennelle Primm about her dreams to become an artistic force across the country.

PowerPlay Magazine: Why start an arts-based organization? Theresa Timmons: It is truly personal; I grew up in the arts. I was blessed to be in dance and played the flute. (I can’t say I was good in visual arts, but I tried!) My grandmother [Theresa “Terri” Timmons] was a legendary blues singer; my mother played the violin, my brother, the clarinet. So as I grew up, I was surrounded by it and thought all children had those same options and experiences. As I started doing community work through my sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I realized all students weren’t afforded the same opportunities. That is what set the groundwork for the Timmons Arts Foundation. We realize how important it is for children to have interaction and experiences with art and music while they grow. It helps their creativity, math and cognitive skills, so we wanted to do something to help. PPM: The Designers Choice Fashion Preview has become a signature event. Did you think it would become this big? TT: I had no idea! It was really something I wanted to do for the local designers that I knew in the city. A lot of them were doing small fashion shows here and there, so I wanted to give them a platform to showcase their skills on a larger level. As the years have gone by, it has grown to be what it is today. I am so thankful that the community supports the show the way that it does. Most importantly, I follow-up with my designers to see how they benefited from it—just to hear the business, contacts and opportunities they receive from being a part of the show is amazing. PPM: You have expanded the show beyond just Little Rock, correct? TT: Yes. We just completed our third year in Dallas. It has actually grown to be just as big in Dallas, if not bigger,

The Timmons Arts Foundation paints bold strokes through fashionable outreach than the Little Rock event. Each year, I always try to make sure I take a designer from Little Rock to showcase in Dallas. I always want to support Little Rock and make sure our Little Rock brand travels with us. PPM: So, how does the foundation factor into this major event? TT: All proceeds from the event go toward the foundation’s work. We assist school districts in establishing and supplying their arts and music programs to ensure children have equal access to arts. We have geared our sights to at-risk youth because we noticed that more prominent schools have access to art supplies instruments, etc. The low-income families and school districts don’t have the budget they need to maintain arts in music in their schools. Last year, a portion of the DCFP proceeds went toward purchasing Dawan Heard, a 7th grade student at Mabelvale Middle School, his own saxophone. He was basically sharing an instrument with another student in the class and wanted his own. I keep up with him and his teacher said he is doing amazing. The first year we purchased a grant for Chicot Elementary to help buy instruments for their music program. This year we are putting the proceeds toward our Cultivating the Arts Youth Summer Camp. PPM: What other fundraising initiatives does the foundation have throughout the year? TT: Most of the things we do are give-back efforts. We do a back- to-school fair; last year we gave away 2500 backpacks, free haircuts, immunizations, and we plan to do it again this year. And now that we have the summer camp, we know we need to do more fundraising. PPM: What do see you as the future for the foundation? TT: Being nationwide. We have already expanded to Dallas. My mom always tells me to take things one step at a time, but I am ready to go all over! I want to take the foundation and make it a national brand and be able to support designers and children all over the country. PPM: What do you like to do in your spare time…if you ever have any? TT: I really enjoy just spending time with my family— especially my niece and my nephew. My family is from Cleveland and all eventually ended up here. We are very close and any down time we have we spend together. We work together and play together.

FOUNDATION HOSTS FIRST-EVER SUMMER CAMP The Timmons Arts Foundation is hosting its inaugural Cultivating the Arts Youth Summer Camp July 7-August 1. The camp will be open to 50 at-risk youth ages 7-14 who will receive instruction in five components of art: visual, dance, vocal, instrumental and fashion. It will also feature a health and wellness component—a fitness instructor will even be on hand—thanks to a partnership with the Arkansas Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Association (AMDPA). Once a week campers will also visit The First Tee of Arkansas for golf skills and life lessons. The camp is free to participants. For more information: www.timmonsartfoundation.org

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Health

well-rounded

BE WELL. GET FIT. :knowledge| ASK AN EXPERT TINA GLASS, owner of Little Rock’s Results by Tina Personal Training Studio, became a certified IFPA (International Fitness Professionals Association) personal trainer in 2000, followed by certification through the American Council on Exercise. Inspired by Glass’ personal story of health and fitness—the Arkansas State Bodybuilding Show champion says she was 19 before she ever stepped foot into a gym— the in-demand personal trainer didn’t break a sweat when we challenged her fitness IQ.

Studies show that metabolism is a major factor in weight loss. If it’s true that a person can actually increase their metabolism, can you explain how? “It is true that you can increase your metabolism, regardless of age or fitness level. The main factors that increase your metabolism are diet (calories consumed) exercise and genetics. Strength training is one of my favorite ways to increase metabolism. By incorporating weights just a couple of times a week, a person can improve their metabolism by developing more lean muscle. Each pound of muscle an individual has can burn up to an additional

Compiled by Jenelle Primm

50 calories even at a resting state. Interval training also requires your body to use more energy, thus improving your metabolism. Improving your diet is another great way to increase your metabolism. Certain macronutrients require more energy to digest, such as protein. Your body also burns more calories when you eat more often. I suggest eating lean sources of protein, fruits, grains and vegetables in smaller portions. Doing this ensures your body to use most of the food consumed as energy and not encourage it to be stored as fat. Genetics has a role in our metabolism but not a defining role. For example, men have more muscle mass and lower body percentages in general than women. The good news is that although genetics plays a role, there are many things that we can do to improve our health and bodies.”

TINA GLASS

Results by Tina Personal Training Studio 10014 N. Rodney Parham Rd, Suite 102 Little Rock, Arkansas 72227 (501)307-4320 www.resultsbytina.com @resultsbytina

:move | NO EXCUSES! Healthy is the new pretty. TIME. If only there was more of it, we would all be in tip-top shape, right? According to marketing consultant and brand manager Tiffany Templeton, brains and muscle behind the Healthy is the New Pretty fitness and nutrition website, getting fit doesn’t always have to mean a trek to the gym. With a little space, Templeton says you can train those muscles right in the comfort of your home or wherever you might be. :consume | SMOOTHIE SAILING It seems that everyone these days is on the green smoothie craze, and after a little investigation, it’s easy to understand why: with an abundance of nutrients and vitamins and a promise of more energy, green smoothies sound like the holy grail of health drinks! A key to becoming faithful to a smoothie ritual is perfecting the right recipe for your palette. No matter if you are new to the green smoothie game or a daily consumer, this recipe is sure to help wake up your blender … and your taste buds!

FEATURED EXERCISE: WALKING LUNGES (with or without dumbbells) Areas of concentration: glutes, calves, quads and hamstrings LET’S GO! Start with your feet shoulder width apart, dumbbells at your sides, palms facing inward. Step forward with one leg and drop your hips. Descend until your rear knee nearly touches the ground. Be sure to keep your posture upright, and your front knee should stay directly over your front foot. Raise yourself back up and bring your rear foot forward. Repeat the lunge with the opposite leg. Complete three sets of 20 repetitions. For more information visit www.healthyisthenewpretty.com www.facebook.com/healthynewpretty @ttemp_id

Recipe serves two (can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to two days) • 2 handfuls of organic spinach • 1 Fuji apple • ½ cup pineapple • 1/2 cup of ice • 1 Banana • 1/2 an avocado (to thicken) • 3 Stalks of celery • 1 cup of cold coconut water (cold filtered water works also) • 1/2 of the juice of a fresh lemon

BLENDER TIP: Be sure to cut the fruit and veggies into small pieces to ensure a smoother blend. Also, blend greens first with the coconut water before adding remaining ingredients. Recipe by Heather Lindsey, author of A Perfect Recipe Always remember to consult your physician before starting any new exercise or fitness regimen. www.powerplaymag.com

well-Rounded

Travel

By Khary Dickerson y first international experience occurred while attending graduate school when a close colleague advised me of a summer exchange program in Germany. The international experience was invaluable in providing me exposure to other countries. I had always wanted to be a catalyst for change in Africa, but never had the opportunity. Nearing completion of graduate school, I heard of a program called MBA Enterprise Corps which sends recently graduated MBA students to a developing country to provide business advisory services. In 2007, I was accepted in the program and assigned to South Sudan which recently ended a 20+ year civil war with its northern neighbors. The region is still considered one of the most underdeveloped in the world. A fellow humanitarian worker once amazed at my enthusiasm to work in such a hot, under developed and potentially violent country. I have seen large rats, had malaria twice, and dysentery once -- too nasty to describe -- and I am still passionate about international development. It may sound cliché, but it’s the relationships that you develop that matter the most. The distance away from your family and friends and the intensity of your projects lends most people to bond to work colleagues and other expats to assist in assimilating into their new environment. When transitioning from the United States to Malawi, my relationship with my new team of colleagues had already been developed through multiple daily Skype calls while working on a $60 million dollar proposal.

Myth #1 - Africans don’t like African Americans. This cannot be furthest from the truth. Most of the world knows American culture, but we unfortunately don’t know the rest of the world. When I let my co-workers know that African Americans make-up only 13% of the US population, they are amazed at our amount of political, economic, and cultural influence. Myth #2 - All Africa is poor. Africa is a continent with many countries and different cultures, different ethnic groups, and varying stages of development.

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As for what’s next for me, I am entertaining the idea of living in South Africa because of the changes that are happening politically and culturally within the country. My advice to anyone considering working abroad is to contact people that have worked overseas in your area of interest and set up informational interviews with the two sizeable organizations that we have here in Arkansas – Heifer® International and Winrock International©. Surprisingly, I have met Arkansans in South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Malawi working in the international development. Everyone should do their homework before accepting a job, working internationally could be one of the best experiences of your life. Since July 2013, Arkansan Khary Dickerson has worked with World Vision, a non-profit organization focused on increasing child wellbeing domestically and internationally. Currently based in Lilongwe, Malawi, as part World Vision’s grants acquisition and management team, Dickerson works to secure grant funding from governments and foundations and is responsible for maintaining relationships and project management of acquired grants for nine countries in the Southern Africa region, namely Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Swaziland, and Angola. His work has taken him to Afghanistan, South Sudan, Uganda, South Africa, and Malawi.

World Vision International© is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. Learn ways to support its mission and get involved by visiting www.worldvision.org. Visit Heifer® International online today to learn more about its mission to end world hunger and poverty and to care for the Earth, www.heifer.org. Winrock International© works to provide solutions for global problems. Learn more about Winrock’s innovative projects at www.winrock.org.

Books & Music

LOOK HERE

well-rounded

& LISTEN UP

Need to add to your favorite little one’s story collection? Want some new road-trip music or maybe some family-friendly sounds for the summer trip to grandma’s house? Contributing writer Jennelle Primm has reviews on just what you’re looking for.

:read | THINK Pink! Visit any bookstore and you’ll find shelves filled with an abundance of story options for children—that is, unless you’re exclusively looking for titles penned by African American authors written with children of color in mind. Enter Gurdon, Arkansas, native Monica Hatley-Carr and her debut children’s book I Love the Color Pink! The Adventures of Laci Macasey.

structures, it’s a great choice for elementary reading levels. So if you’re on the hunt for a new protagonist to introduce to your young one or another special child in your life, consider Hatley-Carr’s freshman work— which she promises is just the beginning—and give Miss Laci Macasey a chance to add some color to their literary world.

Hatley-Carr, who now makes her home in Las Vegas, was inspired by her niece to write and illustrate the colorful story of little Laci whose love of the color pink goes beyond her wardrobe and accessories. A fun read for parents with children, girls and boys alike, the cute story is full of just enough quirks to keep youthful minds interested. And with simple words and sentence

I LOVE THE COLOR PINK! THE ADVENTURES OF LACI MACASEY by Monica Hatley-Carr Paperback | XLIBRIS | $12.84 Published January 2014 www.WhoIsLaciMacasey.com

:listen |Robert Glasper - Black Radio 2 Famed jazz pianist Robert Glasper once again joins forces with his “Robert Glasper Experiment” for their sophomore outing, Black Radio 2. In 2013, the quartet took home a Grammy for “Best R&B Album” for Black Radio, their first effort. For those unfamiliar, the group members are fundamentally jazz musicians, but have made waves in the industry and created their own eclectic sound with a fusion of neo-soul, hip-hop and jazz-funk, much to the dismay of some jazz purists. Much like

their debut, the new project features popular vocal artists such as Jill Scott, Common, Marsha Ambrosius, Norah Jones and Snoop Dogg. From the opening track “Baby Tonight” (Black Radio 2 Theme) to the closing “Jesus Children,” dedicated to the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, Black Radio 2 helps to further push the boundaries of jazz while also creating a unique space in the genre that will be easily dominated by the Robert Glasper Experiment for years to come.

:listen | Erica Campbell - Help Erica Campbell is perhaps best known as one-half of the gospel singing sister duo Mary Mary, but these days she’s singing solo and has released her own debut album, the aptly-named Help. While Campbell’s familiar alto vocals are raw and progressive, they still maintain the sincerity and soul-stirring emotion of more traditional hymns. Not only that, but Help does receive a little help on the title cut from gospel hip-hop artist LeCrae and even

features a Michael Jackson-esque beat on the track “Nobody Else.” The songstress and her producer hubby Warryn Campbell made sure Help has something for everyone, including the down home, hand-clapping and foot-stomping rhythm of the radio-favorites single “I Need Just a Little More Jesus,” ensuring that Help is worth more play than just a Sunday morning ride to church service.

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Fashion | Style

Styled and directed by Joi White Photography by Ananta Model: Jennifer Moise

Pink Skirt, Shoshanna (available online at www.shoshanna.com) Floral cropped top, H&M Collection H&M stores nationwide Green Ray-Ban sunglasses (www.ray-ban.com/usa) Floral Pumps by Lanvin (www.lanvin.com/e-lanvin/US)

Floral dress, Shauntele NY. Jewelry, stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own accessories

Yellow jumpsuit, Shauntele NY. Jewelry, stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own accessories

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For more than 121 years Saint Mark Baptist Church

Pastor Phillip L. Pointer, Sr., First Lady Keya Pointer

has been on a mission to win souls for Christ! Our goal has always been to have a life-changing and spirit-nurturing impact on our church family and the community around us. We want our neighbors and our friends to know, the spiritual development you experience at Saint Mark Baptist Church will help you overcome the challenges of life and prepare you for a glorious life after. At Saint Mark Baptist Church: You will grow in knowledge. You will grow in faith. You will grow in God.

Saint Mark Baptist Church...You. Grow. Here.

Learn more about our ministry at

smark.org

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5722 West 12th Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72204

501.663.3955

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Compiled By Chemia Woods

ummer is the perfect time to enjoy the many outdoor concerts, music festivals and a host of other entertainment options that are cropping up all over The Natural State. So, here’s a chance to get to better know a few of the state’s most noted headliners: musicians, rappers, talented vocalists and popular bands. While some of these performers can already claim household-name status, a few others have managed to fly under the radar … until now. Their stories are just as varied as the rhythm and beats that form their individually unique sounds, but what each of these artists has in common is the ability to keep us moving and grooving – helping us develop a soundtrack for all the seasons of our lives. www.powerplaymag.com

Photo by Randall Lee (Contemporary Imaging)

The Real Music Lover

Rodney Block I

t is safe to say that ubiquitous trumpeter RODNEY BLOCK is now a household name and recognized musical staple in Arkansas. The Dumas, Arkansas, native released his sophomore album STEEL in 2012 and is set to release his next offering, Outside the Box, this summer. The University of Arkansas at Monticello graduate – he holds a degree in speech communication – has been featured in a number of documentaries, including the 2013 documentary Up Among the Hills narrated by former president Bill Clinton, as well as a 2007 televised jazz feature, Front Row with Rodney Block, presented by the Arkansas Educational Television Network (AETN). The musician known for his versatility has, since he moved back to Arkansas in 2002 from stints living in Kansas City, Mo., and Albuquerque, has received many accolades and awards, including an Emmy nomination, and has shared the stage with other incredible artists such as Earth Wind &

Fire, Dave Hollister, Marsha Ambrosius, Dwele, Jonathan Butler, Wynton Marsalis and Eric Roberson, to name a few.

How would you describe your music? My music is instrumental jazz and hip hop grooves.

Always popular and in demand, Block has carved a nice regional footprint in jazz and hip hop, and along with his backing unit THE REAL MUSIC LOVERS, which features Oliver Thomas (bass), Sam Carroll (piano) and Jonathan Burks (drums), has received the Aurora Platinum Award for Best of Show in educational television programming and the Telly Bronze award for concert and film for its AETN concert special.

When did you begin performing? I began performing at the age of 12 with my school band. I also played at my local church where I learned a great deal about my instrument of choice -- the trumpet.

Rodney Block and The Real Music Lovers can be heard at various venues in Little Rock and across the region on a weekly basis. Visit www. facebook.com/rodneyblockmusic for a complete list of 2014- 2015 performance dates.

What inspires your sound? Several things inspire my sound. If I had to pick, I’d say the coolness of jazz icon Miles Davis, the cleverness of hip-hop guru Jay-Z, and the soulfulness of gospel music legend James Cleveland. All of these artists have inspired and molded my sound. What’s next? I’m currently working on a mixtape. It is a mesh of hip hop and jazz music. That’ll be released sometime at the end of June. www.powerplaymag.com

The Country Crooner

Milton Patton

f pressed to come up with the names of two African American country singers, most would readily identify Charlie Pride and, more recently, Darius Rucker, but if Forrest City native Milton Patton has his way, you’ll also be adding his name to the count. This self-professed “country boy” enjoyed what can only be described as a make-orbreak moment when he appeared on the 2013 season of NBC’s hit talent showcase, America’s Got Talent.

Since taking his turn on that world stage, Patton has been actively pursuing his dream of country music superstardom. No stranger to hard work, the former tree trimmer for Arkansas Electric Cooperatives has decided to test how far his pipes will take him by pursuing his music full-time. If you want to catch Patton perform live, he is a regular act at the Downstream Casino Resort in Quapaw, Okla.

Who inspires you? I became interested in country music due to a bad relationship with one of my exes, but thinking of artists who inspire me, I would say Charlie Pride and Alan Jackson. These two men remind me of classic country because it has more meaning dealing with things that occur in everyday living. Presentday country music doesn’t connect with the listeners as much, it is very cliché. Describe your sound? I am focused on creating music that relates to everyone’s situations. I sing about love, happiness, dreams and goals. I want to connect with my listener in a very intimate way. I want my songs to be remembered. I really plan on establishing myself as a staple in the country music genre. What’s next? I’m working on my first single, and all of the creative elements are still under development.

Visit the casino’s schedule of live entertainment and events to see Patton in concert at www.downstreamcasino.com.

Photo by: Lukas Deem of Retrocat Media retrocatmedia.com

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abRatz is much more than a music group, as they are a creative collective of 14 musicians, artists, producers, soloists and engineers: Theme Musiq, Turnpike The Producer, Gadah Patton, Duke Stigall, Doe’Jah, Zo Carver, Kwestion McFly, Nick Broadway, Osyrus Bolly, Tiko Suave, J-Roae, Knowlej Ra, Big Ced Dibiase and Asylum The Crow. Each member has released a solo project and because of their broad range of musical talents individually, every step of the recording process and LabRatz productions can be handled internally. Since first making a splash in 2011, LabRatz has not looked back. After collaborating for only a year, in 2012, the band released its 20-track debut album The Experiment, which is currently available for digital download on iTunes, Google Play, and from the group’s website: labratz.bandcamp. com/music. Describe your musical sound? Our music covers all bases. We don’t limit ourselves, and we utilize everyone’s knowledge and ideas to create our best musical offering. We bring it all: impromptu performances, exclusive freestyles and entertaining choreography. When did you begin performing? We began performing as a unit early summer 2012. When we’re on stage, we are inimitable. No one can match the diversity we bring, especially when we perform with our band, The WasaNameNem Band. Each time we perform, it is better than the last. That should be any artist’s goal—get better every single time.

Who influenced your sound? With our group being so diverse, our sound is influenced by a plethora of genres. Each of us is a music lover; we adore and respect music, so we can’t just name one influential person. What’s next for the LabRatz? We are currently in the creative process of our next album, Barcelona ‘92. Plus, we look forward to continue entertaining you all.

The Chanteuse

Tricia Reed W

hen you are in love, you just know it! That’s exactly how songstress Tricia Reed felt when first exposed to music as a child attending church with her family. A singer, songwriter and performer, Reed’s musical talent and sincere love for the craft has continued to evolve and flourish from her early days; she began performing at the age of 3 and was in the recording studio by the age of 6. If you have ever seen Reed perform live, you experience her passion each time she graces the microphone. As a neo-soul artist, Reed says she draws her musical inspiration from R&B and gospel artists such as Fred Hammond, Karen Clark Sheard, Yolanda Adams, Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker and Kelly Price. Describe your musical sound? My musical sound is all of me. I’ve learned how to love, and I spread love through whatever I sing. I genuinely love my gift and everyone around me. When you learn to love authentically, you begin to care for your loved ones and you want them to

learn the same. It’s important to get to know how to love to be able to love God, so you can have peace, faith and understanding in life and music. When did you begin performing? I began performing as a young child in church where my father was the minister of music. One time my grandmother put together a concert where my siblings and I performed at least two songs a piece. The interesting part was that no one had to push us to practice and my siblings and I just got to it! Who has been influential to your musical career? Early on the Black church was very influential. Both of my parents are talented musical artists, so I was very blessed to know and understand that music was a part of my destiny early in life. Any upcoming projects? I’m always performing. I have a few shows coming up.

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The Sonic Renegade

Arkansas Bo U

ntil recently, Arkansas had long been one of only a handful of Southern states without a nationally recognized rap artist. Now we can thank rapper Arkansas Bo for changing all of that. The artist originally from Stuttgart, Arkansas, recently signed with rap legend Scarface’s Facemob label. Bo has a distinct sound and flow that rightfully deserves its place on the national soundstage. Having already established a footing here at home, he hopes to put the state on the map nationally by bringing his unique sound to the forefront of hip-hop. Describe your musical sound? I’m a rapper by definition, but I’m very conscious of my lyrics. I write songs with the intent of invoking powerful thoughts that have the potential to revolutionize hip-hop back to a place where the message is just as memorable as the beat. I want to create music that people can learn from rather than die from.

The Flowmakers

Alien Mafia R

apper C-Boddy and rapper/ producer Gunz are Alien Mafia. The rap/hip-hop duo’s latest single Triple B has caught the attention of A&R executives from major record labels and is currently blazing the airwaves of mainstream urban radio stations throughout central Arkansas. Currently signed to Roc Town Music Group, Alien Mafia is betting that it’s only a matter of time until they become a familiar faction. How would you describe your music? Every song is different. We look at music like fingerprints, every sound is unique. We try to be as creative and inspiring, but always mindful of what people want to hear. When did you begin performing? Our first performance wasn’t even planned. We were in the process of 28

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linking up with Young Dolph, a rapper out of Atlanta, while he was in Little Rock on a tour with Juicy J. The promoter asked us to open up for the show. Once the music started, we just lived in the moment, and the performance turned out great! What inspires your sound? Anything and we truly mean that! We grew up in the South, so we are influenced by UGK, Cash Money, No Limit Soldiers and Tupac. When we are reaching for inspiration, we go back in history to Jimi Hendrix, George Clinton, Elvis, Otis Redding and more. Being artists forces us to create inspiring textures that accent the emotions of the records to really reach out and grab the listener. What’s next? A record deal we hope!

When did you begin performing? I’ve been rapping for years, but I began performing early on while in high school and college talent shows. Who has been influential to your career? I’m partial to Southern rappers and artists like Scarface and Young Jeezy, but going deeper than the surface my sound is inspired by the Black struggle, particularly the struggles of Black youth. Today’s music is about simplistic beats and lyrics, but I focus on creating music that will bring up my community. I am a renegade against the norm and I don’t want my music to sound like everyone else. Personally, I enjoy classic soul music, which is a sound that I like to incorporate into my music. I’m talking old school Motown meets present day hip-hop. What’s next for you? I’m just perfecting my craft and working hard on developing a great single now that I have my Facemob family behind me.

The Musical Chemists featuring

Kemistri Nicky Parrish I

f you’ve never heard of Kemistri featuring Nicky Parrish, you may not want to admit it. The Little Rock-based, four-member band (lead vocalist Parrish is the group’s sole female member) has played at every venue in Arkansas that understands the value of such phenomenal musicianship and artistry.

So much more than your average local cover band, Kemistri featuring Nicky Parrish has its sights on international performances. And as much we enjoy the convenience of being able to catch them perform in the state, we know that theirs is a sound that deserves worldwide applause. Who inspired your sound? We love the sounds of Earth, Wind & Fire, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Mint Condition and Dave Hollister, to name a few. We are inspired by artists who perform diverse genres of music.

How would you describe your music? Technically speaking, our music falls under R&B, jazz, blues and neo-soul; we literally have performed sets under every musical genre. However, the genre makes no difference because as a band we are committed to bringing authentic music that naturally ‘feels good’ to the audience. We are true believers of one sound, and we purposefully create music that resonates with our audience, for music is the universal language, so we try not to put ourselves in a box. We simply create music that ignites emotion and captivates the listener. What’s next? Our band is focusing on expanding our brand to areas outside of central Arkansas and the United States. Additionally, look for Nicky Parrish on the upcoming season of BET’s Apollo Live, the updated version of the popular talent showcase, now hosted by comedian Tony Rock and judged by Gladys Knight, Michael Bivins and Doug E. Fresh.

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The Bluesman

Akeem Kemp A

keem Kemp is a 20-year-old blues artist whose first major performance was in a Little Rock nightclub at the age of 13. A native of Morrilton, Kemp has accomplished a great deal during what some may call a short span of time, but it’s his goal to make a musical imprint across central Arkansas. Having performed at many of Little Rock’s premiere nightspots, Kemp has opened for Memphis native Eric Gales and fellow Arkansan Luscious Spiller. His 2013 debut album I Like It All – recorded when he was 18 years old and still in high school – is available on iTunes. Follow Kemp on Twitter (@iAkeemKemp) to keep up with upcoming performance dates. How would you describe your music? I would describe my music as being a mixture of everything. I say my genre is blues, but I don’t really have a genre. My music consists of a variety of styles: rock, blues, R&B, country, reggae, funk and pop.

When did you begin performing? Well, I actually started performing in 2006. I started out doing gospel until I was about 12. My first show was in 2013, and that’s also when I released my first album which is still available for download on iTunes. What inspires your sound? My sound is inspired by musicians such as guitarist and singer Albert King; thinking more modern day, I really like Eric Gales’s sound. I’m not only inspired by musicians, but I’m also inspired by the sounds of cars and trucks going down the road. For instance, I’ll hear the sound of a Dodge Charger racing down, so I’ll imitate that noise the best of my ability with instruments. I also enjoy regular sounds, such as someone knocking on a door or whistling—anything that catches my ear I will try to imitate it. What’s next? I am working on releasing my second album in 2015.

The People’s Voice

E-Dubb

ittle Rock native Erroll “E-Dubb” Westbrook is not a musical novice by any stretch of the imagination. True hip-hop aficionados may recall hearing his distinct raspy voice during his time as a member of the well-known group the A-State Hustlers. Rapping since he was 12 years old, E-Dubb has opened for a string of familiar rap artists such as T.I., Jeezy and Lil Wayne. E-Dubb is still going strong after these years and continues to create the signature music that has given him staying power in the region.

What inspires your sound? My sound is inspired by personal trials and tribulations. I write about what I’ve endured and how I overcame those situations, having once served time in prison.

To keep your eyes and ears on Westbrook, check him out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ErrolWestbrook or on the web at www.reverbnation. com/errolwestbrook.

What’s next? As for what’s next for the rapper, he’s more focused now than ever and plans to continue honing his craft to make more music “for the streets.”

How would you describe your music? I feel I am the voice of the streets.

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When did you begin performing? I began performing in the late 1990s when I free-styled for national artist Lil’ Flip at Barton Coliseum. Since then, I’ve performed in a vast majority of the southern states and opened for nationally known rappers such as Devin the Dude, Killer Mike and Big Tuck, to name a few.

BY SERICIA COLE

Tracy Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CLUB TROIS is a thriving nightspot for live music and events.

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t’s Friday night, May 2, 2014. The 4200 block of Asher Avenue in Little Rock is jumping. Cars neatly line the street and streams of women and men are filing inside what has become one of central Arkansas’s hottest nightlife venues.

Welcome to Club Trois. Tonight’s attraction is Grammy-nominated singer Raheem Devaughn, featured artist for this installment of the club’s First Friday’s Soul Sessions which has previously showcased contemporary R&B/neo-soul vocalist Algebra Blessett and popular 90’s R&B crooner Case. This First Friday audience is a broad cross-section of the city’s African American demographic: upwardly mobile,

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entrepreneurs, middle-class, working class, those just out-of-class, as well as those still in search of a class. They all have one thing in common this evening—they’re here for a good time. Devaughn, cleaned up in all-black and ready to woo the predominately female crowd, takes the stage after the

Johnson with singer Raheem Devaughn

opening act, Little Rock’s own soul siren Tawanna Campbell, has settled the anxious crowd, many of whom arrived early to ensure a good seat. Backed by a live band, Devaughn doesn’t disappoint. With a catalog of familiar tunes, he commands the audience with a string of melodies that have the ladies in a state of concertfrenzy. As all the action is captured by a roving house photographer (to be later posted on social media), Tracy Johnson, the club’s suave owner, is casually milling about. Clearly proud of the packed house, he warmly greets guests and

ensures things—and drinks—flow smoothly. Nights like this are what Johnson envisioned when the doors to Club Trois (pronounced /trwa/) opened June 29, 2012. In just two years, people have not only become accustomed to its French name, but they have also begun to rely upon the brand Johnson has built to be the spot for quality nightlife, which for Trois means an upscale aura, great entertainment, and free-flowing libations in a secure environ. ____________________________________________________

s a youngster growing up in the east Little Rock area of Fourche Dam Pike, Johnson, now 43, was fascinated by The Rat Pack, specifically Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., and says he was “captivated by the music and the lifestyle” made famous by those legendary performers. Even if he could not emulate The Rat Pack’s musical talents, the lifestyle, signified by coolness and sophistication in the entertainment business, seemed a more reasonable aspiration. In 2001, the eager entrepreneur got the chance to learn at the feet of venerable Club Elevations owner J.D. Lipscomb, (“I was more like his flunky”) whom Johnson calls the “godfather of the club business.” He says he learned a lot from his Elevations apprenticeship, but during that time, the social scene began to alter. “There was a shift from just club-going to the business being more event-driven,” Johnson recalls, particularly with the advent of the First Friday concept introduced to the market by Telly Noel, another enterprising nightlife architect. “Telly began sending out emails about his events which gave them more of an immediate, visual appeal.” For Johnson’s part, he was ready, so he thought, to strike out on his own to create “a swanky place to go that was more event-driven.”

GOING SOLO Johnson’s confident, nonchalant demeanor belies any insecurities he may harbor. Listening to him talk about the 2005 birth of his first solo nightclub venture, Ambiance, would have you believe its quick demise in 2006 was not as much of a disappointment as it was an education. “It failed horribly,” he admits. “When I came to Elevations it was an established brand. With Ambiance I had to create a package, develop a clientele from scratch, so just my inexperience with marketing and creating a buzz was a lot of work I was unprepared for. I wasn’t ready to take on that whole thing.” Though Ambiance was short-lived, Johnson’s perspective helped him take it in stride. “Before the club business, I had read gas meters, worked at Job Corps, had been in the Army Reserves, sold purses … I failed before in life so I didn’t harp on it or wallow in it. Instead I tried to make something positive of it by examining my mistakes and asking myself what I did wrong.” Fortunately, all of the equipment and trappings purchased for Ambiance could be used for a new opportunity, this time with a smaller undertaking, at Club C & C located on Asher Avenue when its owner asked Johnson to take it over in 2006. “I felt this was the perfect place; it was small, dingy, didn’t have a lot of character.” C & C was an incubator, a chance for Johnson to cultivate his own niche and following. “It was very successful. We ran really strong for three years and it was confirmation that the club business really was for me.” 2 + 1 = TROIS Wanting to expand, Johnson acquired the land adjacent to C & C – where Club Trois now sits – to accomplish his next goal of a “super nice, large club to do everything I wanted to do.” However, a 2009 fire would level C & C and a dispute with the property’s owner over a purchase price sent Johnson literally packing. The uncle of NBA superstar Joe Johnson says he went on “hiatus to deal with personal stuff” and spent a lot of time in Atlanta (his nephew, now with the Brooklyn Nets, was then an Atlanta Hawk) in addition to frequent travel to Las Vegas and Miami where he was able to draw inspiration. “Clubs were different in those places. They were more than four walls and sound; they had art on walls and had personality and character.” Johnson wanted to bring this back to Arkansas. And he would. At 4,000 square feet and occupancy of 300, Club Trois is the only African American owned club in central Arkansas built from the ground up. As for its name, Johnson says he wanted folks to think, What’s on his mind? “People assumed it was sexual. But a lot of people call me Tray, it’s my third solo club, and I have three boys… so I came up with Trois.” William Staggers. Jeron Marshall. Rodney Block & The Real Music Lovers. Dell Smith. Independent rap artists. Unsigned artists. Hip hop. R&B. Neo-soul. Comedy. All have a home at Club Trois. With its cosmopolitan aesthetic—an entrance modeled after a big-city entryway, leather walls, tile flooring and abstract art-adorned walls—and growing regional reputation as a live music and events venue, Club Trois has become a viable entertainment attraction. Which means Johnson has a right to sing – as his childhood Rat Pack idol Sinatra famously did – I did it my way.

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Top NIGHTSPOTS

MIA BANKS

STREETZ 101.1 FM on-air personality, gives her TOP 5 African American-owned nightspots in central Arkansas

1. Club Trois

4314 Asher Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72204 (501) 663-4803 Hours: 9 p.m. – 2 .am. Thursday – Sunday www.facebook.com/thenewclubtrois Mia says: “This is the Capital City’s premiere night life spot! On Fridays and Saturdays, one of the most popular deejays in the city is on the 1s and 2s, and they’ve been booking popular celebs and artists lately as well.”

2. 4 Corners Bar & Grill

824 Capitol Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 786-9913 Hours: 4:30 p.m.- 2 a.m. Tuesday – Saturday 5 p.m.- 12 a.m. Sunday www.facebook.com/4CornersBarGrill Mia says: “In one word: Consistency … I can always count on great drinks and a real cool vibe here. Quenton “Que” King, one of the owners, has been solid in the club biz for a long time.”

3. Twelve Modern Lounge

1900 W. Third Street, Little Rock, AR 72205 (501) 301-1200 Hours: 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. Friday – Saturday 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday Mia says: “Owned by prominent Little Rock businessmen/socialites, Twelve offers a great set-up for summer time day parties with the outdoor deck as an option. It’s also very close to downtown. Must be 25, though, to chill here.”

4. Jazzi’s Restaurant & Lounge

5200 Asher Ave., Little Rock, AR 72204 (501) 562-6919 Hours: could not confirm Mia says: “Jazzi’s is an authentic, Southern good time. Nonstop dancing and everyone is enjoying themselves.”

5. Club Elevations

7200 Colonel Glenn Rd., Little Rock, AR 72204 (501) 562-3317 Hours: 9 p.m.- 5 a.m. Thursday – Monday Mia says: “This is a Little Rock nightlife staple. If you haven’t kicked it at the ‘Club on the Hill,’ then you haven’t fully experienced all the metro has to offer.”

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playing with Power

The Design Group Architects of the house of ‘great ideas’ The Design Group is a full-service multicultural communications company that provides market expertise to clients looking to reach African American, Latino and urban youth consumers and audiences. In business since 2007 and located in downtown Little Rock, the firm’s team is led by a duo of co-creative strategists: chief executive officer Myron Jackson and Telly L. Noel, Sr., chief operating officer. In their own words, the masterminds – who are also cousins – talk about their motivation for striking it out on their own, the mission behind their work, and what keeps them grinding in their niche as Arkansas’s full-service multicultural communications firm. -- as told to Candace L. Randle

“

Our mission is to serve with a client-first philosophy, understanding that advertising is a business and an art. What matters most is delivering measurable results in service of our clients’ long-term business objectives.

”

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playing with Power

Myron Jackson

On what sealed their entrepreneurial fates: Myron Jackson: Since I was a child, I’ve had a desire to create something that would have a long-lasting mark on my community and the people around me. I grew up in a community where poverty was rampant and those who were employed had unskilled, low-paying jobs. I made a promise to myself that I would do whatever it took to both educate myself and control my own destiny. Operating a business allows me to do both. Telly L. Noel, Sr.: I was introduced to entrepreneurship by my grandparents at a very young age. Since I never saw them work for anyone, I learned early on that the best way to make money is to make your own. As a kid, I can remember making my own money with my grandmother. She had an old-fashioned Coca-Cola bottling machine. While I couldn’t afford to buy drinks from the machine, my grandmother gave me the opportunity to make a nickel for every bottle I returned to the Coca-Cola man. I quickly realized that with time and effort, I could control my own profit. That was my first taste of entrepreneurship. On mixing blood and money: M.J.: There is an old adage that says you should never mix family and business. That is possibly true because Telly and I spend a lot of time in intense debate about how to best service our clients. We can be brutally honest even when it hurts and, because we’re family, we can move past it without holding grudges. There is a school of thought that if everyone thinks alike, acts alike, and does everything the same, then someone isn’t needed. Telly and I have unique and very different skillsets. Each one of our talents is needed to deliver a comprehensive approach to marketing communications.

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Telly L. Noel, Sr.

On reaching clients and staying innovative: M.J.: Telly and I don’t create every idea. Many ideas originate from team members, friends, family members, and just life itself. We are students of human behavior, and we are constantly seeking truth. When you are in search of the truth, it creates new opportunities for partnerships. Those partnerships can be described as client relationships, but, let’s be clear: we don’t have clients. We have partners with whom we work in union, seeking to find truth and business solutions. As we are constantly seeking truth, we embrace the idea that you can learn something new every day. We stay innovative because we are continuously learning, growing, and becoming a better organization. On cultural diversity and the importance of relationship-building: M.J.: It is critically important that we all accept the fact that race and race relations play a huge role on the success of communities in Arkansas. More times than not, embracing cultural diversity has meant doing the politically correct thing. We’ve challenged our partners and prospective partners that embracing diversity is not just for the purpose of goodwill but also for good business. The Design Group exists to help many of those who are in decision-making positions understand that you have to look outside of your comfort zone and be very intentional in working to be inclusive. This means building partnerships with people you don’t know, extending your brand presence into communities you’ve never visited, buying media you can’t relate to, and properly funding activity that may be questioned because others at the decision-making table don’t understand it.

playing with Power The reason that there tends to be a great lack of understanding is because there tends to be a lack of diversity at the decision-making table. The marketplace is becoming more and more fragmented. The talking points used to center around race, but, now, also includes race, lifestyle, life stage, sexual orientation, and state of mind. Brands, whether they exist in the public or private sector, must build relationships with all viable segments of the marketplace. Leading a brand that is meant for all but only relevant to a few can only lead to brand destruction. On advice to the next generation of aspiriting marketing execs: M.J.: Be prepared to constantly seek truth. Don’t be afraid to learn, and don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know. Allow life to teach you. Also, learn

to appreciate that this business is not an exact science. Human beings change every moment, yet, still, it can be a great experience trying to understand the driving forces behind human behavior. T.N.: Jump in with both feet! Expose as many young persons of color to this business. We need more great minds. We need more great thinkers. We need more hard workers.

“The Design Group is the house that great ideas built.” Myron Jackson

Visit TDG online at

www.designgroupmarketing.com

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Power Moves

Seen On The Scene

The 2014 Greater LR Chapter-National Forum for Black Public Administrators held its Marks of Excellence Banquet March 14 at the Clinton Presidential Center

Rev. Maxine Allen

Pamela Mobley, Phyllis Dickerson

Wendell Jones

Dr. Dexter Booth, Lottie Shackelford

Arthur Woods, Kola Brown, Sheena Lewis

Danyelle, Ethan (front), Victoria and Edward Walker

Brandon Smith, Van Tilbury, Marq Golden

Arkansas Comes First! Frederick Gentry, Tjuana Byrd

Scott Carter, Toya Robinson

Chauncey Holloman, Tabitha Cooke, Bruce Moore, Toya Robinson, Starla Frazier 38

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Vote November 4th

Seen On The Scene

Power Moves

The 2014 King-Kennedy Dinner, sponsored by the Arkansas Democratic Black Caucus, was held March 1 at the Metroplex Event Center in Little Rock. Guest speaker was noted journalist Roland Martin. Photos by Roger Robinson/QVS Photography

Roland Martin and Judge Mark Leverett

Roland Martin and Wanda Bynum & Al Ashley

Abraham Carpenter Jr. and Kasey Summerville

Eleanor & Donnie Lindsey, Bishop D.L. Lindsey

Colette Honorable, Vince Insalaco and State Rep. Fredrick & ShaRhonda Love

Dana Bradley and Ray Hamilton

Danyell & Rodney Cummings www.powerplaymag.com

Power Moves

Seen On The Scene

The 7th annual Designers Choice Fashion Preview, hosted by Team Summit, took place March 29, 2014 at the Metroplex Event Center. | Photos by Roger Robinson/QVS Photography

Julianna Williams and her father Stacy Williams

Tiffani Butler, Yana-Janell Scott and Adrienne Smith

Charles Stewart and daughter Sherri Anderson

Marcus & Ramona Elliott

Phyllis Dickerson and Dr. Gerry Glasco

N’ell Jones and Angie Baltimore

PUBLIC NOTICE DISADVANTAGED ENTERPRISE GOAL FOR FY2015 – FY2017 JUNE 10, 2014 The Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA) announces the proposed establishment of a 4.01% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) utilization goal on Federal Transit Administration funded projects for FY2015 – FY2017. A complete description of this proposed goal is available for public inspection for thirty (30) days from the date of this notice online at http://www.cat.org/doing-business-withcata/dbe-assistance. In accordance with 49 CFR Part 26.45(g), CATA invites maximum public participation and solicits comments regarding the proposed goal. CATA will accept comments for forty-five (45) days from the date of this notice. Send all inquiries to Joe Procop at the below address or by email to jprocop@cat.org. Central Arkansas Transit Authority 901 Maple Street North Little Rock, AR 72114 Attn: Joe Procop

Jean Block and Donna Terrell

Scott Hamilton and Martie North

Eligible firms are encouraged to apply for DBE certification in Arkansas by contacting the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department EEO/DBE office.

LITTLE ROCK * MAUMELLE * NORTH LITTLE ROCK * PULASKI COUNTY * SHERWOOD

Rodney Block, Bijoux Pighee, Oliver Thomas, Patrick Pettus Jr., Sam Carroll and Jonathan Burks 40

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Where Are They Now?

expats

The fly, cool kid from the ‘hood… Most Likely to Succeed… the All-American… the math & science wiz… the drama queen or king… the student body president... the debate champ… the musical talent… WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

He’s Got

JONATHAN JONES

Rhythm Soul Arkansas native Jonathan “JJ” Jones is an influential force behind some of today’s most recognizable musicians and chart-topping tunes. The busy music executive invited PowerPlay Magazine into his impressively glamorous professional life for a glimpse into his world and to explain how though he may hang his hat in the Big Apple, there will always be an apple in his eye for Arkansas. By Candace L. Randle

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expats

Where Are They Now

s director of creative services for the Rhythm & Soul/Urban Department at the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), Little Rock-born and raised JONATHAN JONES is charged with discovering and signing songwriters, producers, developing talent, establishing and maintaining relationships with current ASCAP members, all while programming events, showcases and educational panels. He’s been with ASCAP since 2010. “I play an integral role… and learned firsthand the importance of establishing and cultivating meaningful relationships,” says Jones of his position at one of the country’s largest organizations representing more than half a million artists, musicians, producers, publishers and composers, which this year is celebrating its 100th year of business.

and workshops throughout the year. I work daily on these projects, which can include anything from booking talent to securing sponsorships. Business and industry icons Sean “Puffy” Combs, Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Kevin Liles, Jeff Robinson, Jon Platt and Troy Carter

(l-r) 2Chainz, Jonathan Jones, MWill, photo credit The Picture Group

During SXSW (l-r) Jones, George-Middleton, Pharrell Williams, TI, Tiny, Usher Photo credit Getty Images

A graduate of Morehouse College, where he obtained a degree in political science, Jones started his career with the Atlanta-based Aphilliates Music Group. Soon after relocating to New York, he landed a coveted position with Sony Music-Epic Records. “I realized in junior high school I wanted a career in the music industry. I’ve always loved music and knew I wanted to be involved in some way. In college, I went to a bookstore and found a book that listed all of the music companies in the United States. I didn’t have enough money to buy the book, so I sat there and wrote down all of the music companies in Atlanta, then e-mailed every single company to introduce myself as a student looking for an internship and noted that I would work for free. Among 25-30 companies, two to three replied, and that’s how I got my first internship at a management company.” KEEPING UP WITH THIS JONES A typical work day I usually attend music showcases or events during most evenings, either to support current ASCAP members or looking for new talent. After the showcase, I’m most likely going to the studio. As much as I love working with label and publisher executives, managers and attorneys, the favorite part of my job is making studio runs and working with the creatives. I’m a studio rat and love that environment. While there, I’m checking on writers, listening to new projects, brainstorming ideas, etc. I truly enjoy what I do. Throughout the year, our department hosts events such as our Grammy Brunch for Grammy Nominees and our ASCAP Urban Awards show, which honors the top songwriters of the year according to the Billboard music charts. We also produce showcases and host industry panels 42

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Mentors My personal mentor is my grandfather, Willie Thompson. My professional mentor is Jeff Robinson, a talent manager who counts Alicia Keys, Elle Varner, K Michelle and Tiara Thomas as some of his clients. I also count my boss, Nicole George-Middleton, as a mentor. Advice he offers anyone planning a career in the music industry Seek out a mentor, someone who can provide guidance; get an internship and work really hard to learn as much as possible and establish meaningful relationships; seek out an artist or project that you believe in and offer to help. If that artist finds success and you were instrumental in helping them do so, industry insiders and companies will notice. It’s a great resume builder and creates other opportunities.

(l-r) Producer Happy Perez, singer Miguel, Jones, photo credit The Picture Group

Jonathan Jone s Hometown: No

rth Little Rock, Ar

Neighborhood:

kansas

Sherwood

High school: Pa rkview Arts/Scien ce Magnet High School Current Situatio

n: New York

Kendrick Lamar (center) and ASCAP’s VP, Rhythm & Soul Nicole George -Middleton, photo credit The Picture Group

When he left Ar kansas and why : I left Arkansas in 2000 to attend Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn essee. I transferre d to Morehouse Colle ge after my soph omore year. How of ten he ge ts back: I get ba ck to Arkansas 3-5 tim es a y ear for the holidays, family gatherings and for Real Deal in the Rock, an annual nationa l AAU basketball tournament. What he misse s: My family and the Southern hospitality. The pe ople are so nice and welcoming. One word or ph rase that sums him up: All I need is God, family and hustle .

Grammy Brunch with R&B singer Tamia, third from left, credit The Picture Group

Deandre Robinson, Stunt-Kid Extraordinaire, Kidney Recipient

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