Special Entertainment Issue Featuring Every Genre of Music
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editorial
SOPHISTICATED CHARLOTTE MAGAZINE Editor In Chief Sharon Young Art Director Graphic/Layout Production Director Wayne Rose Senior Editor Kim Hornback Senior Copy Editor Steven Willis Website Manager Tenessa Moore
Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine is the magazine for the people of Charlotte. Our first issue came with some real challenges, and some mistakes, but we made it. I want to thank those of you who supported us, gave of their time, expertise, knowledge; those who stuck in there with us against all odds. We are here, and here to stay. The people have spoken, they like the new direction that Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine is going... Thank you Charlotte. Charlotte, I have a lot of questions for you. These questions are to make you think about your city. First, I would like to bring something to your attention Charlottte; someone said to me that Charlotte has no direction. We are all over the place with no common goal. Is this true? Are we just flying over the city trying to land? I have to ask these questions because when it was said, it sounded so true. Charlotte, we are growing by leaps and bounds. Can we come together the way they have done in Atlanta? That city has it all. Atlanta now is one of the largest cities for everything; movies, TV, modeling, nightlife, and all forms of businesses thrive there. Can we make Charlotte that type of city? I want to hear from you Charlotte about what we need to do to land. We will be hosting the Democratic National Convention in 2012. We should be on top of our game. What would it take to bring Tyler Perry here, or a major TV series, or more major companies to this area? Someone also said when looking on Google that Charlotte has more promoters and entertainment companies in one central location than any other city. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? 03 SCM
Public Relations & Marketing T. Fant Promotions & PR Joann Middleton Interview Writer Nicole Camack
I say a bad thing. Instead of working together to make Charlotte that type of city that has quality nightlife and entertainment, it is just a city with nightlife all over the place. Charlotte, would you rather have quality or quantity? We also have tons of networking events each week, but are they true networking events? We go out and pass out business cards, but do we hear from people to do business with? Do we truly do business and support each other? I have only been here for a short time, but I have noticed that so many people truly have the “I” mentality. “I” don’t want to work with them, “I” will keep all my information to myself, and “I” am out for self... so on, and so on. We all need to look around this great city of ours and take mental notes. Then ask yourself these questions: What do you want from your city? What are we going to do to fix it? As we move forward, we need to know what you, the people, want. We want you to comment on the articles comments, then give us some suggestions on what you want to see in this publication, and from your city... the great City of Charlotte.
Sharon Young Editor In Chief
Contributing Writers Vanessa Burke / Kim Hornback Roy Remington / SC Stevens Photographers Capture by Kevin Todd Youngblood Kat Garnes Photographer For Web Picture Robin Roundtree Clarence Jackson Veronica Giles Photographer Andre Michaels BJ Murphy Photographer Fred Braziel Devondia Roseborough Photographer Moye’ New Face Model Katrina Garnes Stylist Passion Graham Website www.sophisticatedcharlottemag.com Email admin@sophisticatedcharlottemag.com Phone 704-910-5166 Office 980-322-9460 other Facebook www.facebook.com/#!/pages/SophisticatedCharlotte-Magazine Twitter sharonscm Distribution Distbu Tec www.sophisticatedcharlottemag.com Story submissions: SCM is not responsible for unsolicited artwork or manuscripts. Copyright 2011 by SCM, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. SCM is a trademark in the USA. Printed in the USA
readers’ comments We at Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine would like to thank the Charlotte people for caring
about the contents of the magazine. We acknowledge there where some errors and we apologize. We have done all we can to make sure that our quality checks are done. We hope that you enjoy this issue. We heard you and want your comments. Please send your comments to admin@sophisticatedcharlottemag.com A special Thanks to My great Staff for their tireless effort and time. To my best friend and Graphic Consultant, Liz Owens, for believing in me all these years and hanging with me through it all.... Love You To all my advertisers and supporter, without you none of this would be possible.
“The magazine looks awesome, congratulations and keep up the good work!” • Passion-Shuntoria Graham “Great job. Your are bringing it, my sister!” • Sadruddin Abdullah Sharon “Thank you Sharon! It was a pleasure meeting you and the Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine family. I appreciate the positive feedback and look forward to building a strong relationship with you in the future!!” Joanne Middleton “THANK YOU TO CHARLOTTE’S PREMIERE MAGAZINE Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine AND Sharon Mitchell-Young for helping make R&B such a Sucess! You and your staff were absoultely wonderful. Great Work!!!” Nathan S. Smalls “You Do Ur Thing Ms. Young... Loving Ur Swagga... Plz Continue!” An’janea Coutee “Sharon.. On behalf of Lesan Talent Agency, I would like to congratulate you on an OUTSTANDING JOB!!! The road to success is not easy, but this publication has put you in the driver’s seat and you are on cruise control. I “LOVE” you and what you stand for by highlighting up and coming Talent around the Charlotte Metro area! Also, I would like to Thank you for being a great mentor! Be Blessed...yours truly..” Lesan Talent Agency-(LTA) DeAngelo Byrd
Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine Corrections: In our last issue The Gospel Truth Article was written by: Rev. Donna M. Fant, (Associate Minster) Ebenezer Baptist Church
contact us SCM Magazine values our readers’ input and solicits your opinions. Let us know your thoughts! Send your comments via mail to: Letters: SCM Magazine Address Information (Street Number) Address (City, State & Zip Code or email us @ syoung@sophisticatedcharlottemag.com We reserve the right to edit all letters and posts. All published letters become the property of SCM Magazine.
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Issue 11 May/July 2011
feature articles Pg. 07
table cover story
commentary A Time To Think
Cybertary-Charlotte Pg. 15
Emma Farmer / Aisha Brown
one on one Pg. 27
Sunshine Anderson / R&B
one on one Pg. 31
CC Merit - Rap/Hip Hop
Pg. 33
Danyell Cherece / Neo Soul
one on one one on one Pg. 39
Pg. 40
Pg. 41
Pg. 42
Y2 Management
one on one Kirk Brown
one on one BJ Murphy
one on one Fly Ty
tribute to gospel Pg. 44
Pg. 47 Pg. 55
Shirley Caesar
food & wine Gas Prices & Staycations My Love - Toochukwu
web exclusives Sister - 2 - Sister Crab Mentality The Politics of Race Miscellaneous entry here 05 SCM
Thomas W Miles II, AKA Nephew Tommy The Heart of An Actor, Laughter of a Comedian
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of contents departments Pg. 08
31
27
say it out loud Mother’s Ain’t What They Used To Be
education Pg. 09
Considering College? The Challenges
health Pg. 11
Know Your Risk and What You Can Do
beauty Pg. 13
The Secret to Red-Carpet Ready Skin
new face Pg. 15
Pg. 17
Model Katrina Garnes
community The Excelsior Club
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community leader Pg. 25
Pg. 57
Pg. 51
Veronica Giles / CMBCC Exec. Director
gospel truth VAnessa Burke / Ascent
off the shelf An’Janea Coutee - Author Devondia Roseborough The Traveling Advocate
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33 06
commentary Author’s Name
We take a look at those who came before us, the ones who give their lives, so that we can try to achieve the American Dream. What would they think as they look down on us now? Have we continued the fight, have we reached the goal of equality? Or have we forgotten what they fought for and have become contented with our lives? Is this as good as it gets? I recently had the joy of watching one of the best movies by far this lifetime. If you have not seen it, rent Lacwana Blues. It told the story of blacks when all we had was each other. We had our own business, our own community.
As it says in the movie “Segregation forced us to make our own happiness.” It was a time when we looked out for each other, respected the elders in our community and took care and supported each other and our business. All we had at that time were each other. Back then we had no choice, today however we have a choice. What do we choose to do now? We choose to lock away our elders in nursing homes because our schedules are to busy and our patience are too thin to take care of them instead of looking to them for wisdom. We work so hard to buy things that our children only see us in passing. They see us going to work and coming home. Do they see us at family dinner or family game night, at talent night or at a game? What about our young black children? Did you know that we have more children in foster care then any other race, more babies not being adopted and more children looking for big brothers and sisters?
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When did we stop taking care of our own? We don’t even shop at our own stores, even though we have the same thing as the others do. Why? We still think that if we give them our dollars that they will get rich on our money? Or maybe we think that we get better service? Or maybe even more respect? Some of us are still babies; we are learning how to talk, crawl and then walk. But, while we are trying, who are teaching us, helping us, holding out those hands for us to reach for? Each year we see Martin Luther King Jr. while marching, everyone is holding hands, showing a sign of unity, strength and support. Can we try that again? Not necessarily in the physical sense but in the spiritual sense. If you have room in your home and in your heart, adopt a child. If grand mom is getting up in age and can’t live alone, invite them to live with you.
You may be surprised how much strength and history they bring with them. They still can teach in ways you would not believe. You see a business in your community? Shop there. Who knows? That may be a business that gives your child their first job. God blesses you so that you may bless others. But if we don’t start remembering what brought us to this point, we may lose it forever. They are all looking down on us, our ancestors who were slaves, Douglas, Tubman, Martin, Malcolm, our mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, husbands and wives, grandmothers and grandfathers; all the ones who have gone before us and the one who is always looking: God. This year and every year hereafter, let’s remember that we can grow together. All we have to do is look at where we came from and what it took for us to get here.
say it out loud mothers ain’t what they used to be By B. Nealy Lewis
Back in the day, mothers were thought of as the affectionate, kind, giving, loving, tenderhearted, longsuffering, miracle working angels of mercy; good-mothers who bull-doggedly held the family together through life’s unexpected left turns. She fixed breakfast, held a job, cooked dinner, checked homework, tucked kids into beds, and, read to them. She prayed for her family and stuck it out with an imperfect working husband in circumstances not always of her choosing, or to her liking. Her house was in order and the children understood her unspoken warning signals when spanking was not a crime. Back talk, almost unthinkable, was not tolerated; to disrespect an elder invoked the wrath of God. Back then, mothers planted wisdom seeds while braiding her daughter’s hair and drove home the point that “a man only wants one thing,” because she knew that abstinence, common sense and luck were all that stood between a girl and her virginity. Who braids a daughter’s hair now-a-days, and what is that voice planting? Single mothers used to be an anomaly. A woman left widowed with children was heartbreaking; divorce was undesirable and regrettable. An out-of-wedlock pregnancy was made somewhat palatable when the soon-to-be parents married. Marriage was expected once the girl’s father presented the young man with the ultimatum: “You will accept your responsibilities.” Today, however, who gives a second thought to the fact that a child may never have seen his or her father? Where marriage was not an option, either the baby was
accepted, or both mother and child were shut out. Single motherhood was not a career choice. Self-induced abortions which took many a woman’s lives, paved the way for the abortion on demand laws that hold consequences to which I have referred in previous writings. It wasn’t so long ago that women desiring children followed conventional wisdom and waited until marriage because “a good man doesn’t want an easy woman for his wife” and because “a man ain’t gonna buy the cow when he can get the milk for free.” After the honeymoon, mothers educated daughters in the find art of keeping her man; “You had better feed him at home.”
Who gives a second thought to the fact that a child may never have seen his or her father? Once upon a time “mamma could burn” in the kitchen. Who among us does not enjoy a well thought out nourishing and tasty home cooked meal? Today, the only kitchen with which some mothers are familiar is decorated with a golden arch. Somewhere in time, old-fashioned mother wit was cast aside for the galactic lie that men are superfluous to childbearing and to their rearing. Some women caught-up in the marvel of modern medical experimen-
tation chose artificial insemination with anonymous sperm donated by some men with the right color eyes chosen from a list of applicants, legally relieved of all parental obligations and free to father many nameless children. Other women could “rent-awomb” freeing themselves of the burden of carrying a child to term. The less offending term, surrogate pregnancy; once unimaginable, helped contribute to the development of specialized law where custody lawyers rake in big bucks negotiating the “who’s baby is this” mess where the child becomes a rope in the tug-of-war custody contest. Babies require mature self-respecting parents willing to devote 20 selfless years, and considerable economic resources to nurture, discipline, and groom them with an expectation of turning out a productive contributing member to society. Why are girls today, many babies themselves, so focused on “havin’ his baby”? What message renders girls unwilling to complete education, persue career opportunities, or use easily accessible birth control? Has casual sex with a fine-looking onenight Joe become the subliminal motive for creating a fantasy designer baby? What is so great about being called “the bitch dats ma’ baby’s mama’? And for heaven’s sake, what is all this second baby mama drama about? Could all this be the sound of one crying in the wilderness for the father? What message will these mothers pass to their daughters and to their sons? Mothers can predict the future; they’ve been there. 08
education
Whether you are fresh out of high school, hoping to start college for the first time or thinking about returning to college, it’s not a decision that can be taken lightly. The time and money that goes into furthering your education can be daunting. However, since earning a college degree will ultimately lead you to achieve a more stable and rewarding future, you will likely not regret your decision to enroll and take your skills to the next level. Many prospective students face similar challenges when thinking about post-secondary education options. Ben Simms, Vice President of Admissions at Westwood College, identifies the five most common challenges he hears from students and how they overcome them.
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Considering college?
1. Fear or lack of confidence
You may feel apprehensive because your past school experiences haven’t been positive. If you can identify why you haven’t succeeded in the past and identify what style of learning fits you best, you’ll be in a better position to succeed and feel more confident in college. For example, if you’ve had a hard time in a traditional classroom setting, but excel at hands-on learning, look for colleges that offer that type of training. In fact, nearly half of all new Westwood College students have attended other colleges and universities prior to enrollment, and many are looking for a more hands-on education.
2. Lack of support
For some, family or friends may not value education enough to provide the proper support for the person heading to college. If you find yourself in this position, look for a college that offers a support system through counseling resources, free tutoring and mechanisms to network with teachers and classmates.
3. Worried about paying for college
Many people entering college have little or no money saved to help pay for tuition or books. For these students this means taking out loans to help pay for their education. Before you enroll, sit down with a financial adviser or a professional at the college you want to attend to make sure you understand all of your financial obligations as well as your finance options. Knowing what your monthly payments might look like once you have earned your degree may help give you peace of mind going forward. Also, check with your college to see if you might be eligible for grants or scholarships.
4. Uncertain the investment will match the return
Many prospective students often wonder whether their hard work and money spent on college will pay off after graduation in the form of a well-paying, enjoyable job. When looking for colleges, make sure to identify an institution that is committed to helping students find employment once they graduate to add assurance to your investment. Also know that the first job after college may not include a high salary - but over time an individual’s salary can increase significantly.
5. Balancing college with life’s other obligations
College is a major commitment for everyone, especially those who have family or work commitments while attending. There’s no question that finding and maintaining a life balance is challenging, but many students find a way to get it done whether it be through flexible scheduling or by taking some courses online.
Araceli Hurtado, a featured Westwood 100 graduate, can relate to many of these challenges, and then some. When Hurtado chose to pursue a criminal justice degree, she was already working a fulltime job as an office manager in the restaurant industry. She wanted to pursue a career she enjoyed and could be proud of, but needed a program that would provide the flexibility to work and attend classes simultaneously. “Achieving a personal goal of earning a degree takes true commitment, no matter what obstacles life throws in front of you,” she says. “I am grateful for the support that I received from my instructors and friends and am proud of what I have been able to accomplish by making education a priority in my life.” After earning her degree, Hurtado got a job working in a violence prevention agency and is doing what she loves. She was showcased in a February 2010 New York Times article for outstanding work in the community. Her advice for current students as well as anyone thinking about pursuing a degree is to establish solid, lasting relationships with instructors and classmates and get involved in as many networking opportunities as possible. She credits networking as the key to her success during and after her time in college.
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health
diabetes: Know your risk and what you can do Diabetes is a serious disease that affects nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States. Early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death. This year, T-fal has joined the American Diabetes Association’s Stop Diabetes movement to educate and teach consumers about healthful eating. By following the simple steps below, families can better understand their risk and take the necessary steps to help combat this disease.
• Know your risk
• Get educated.
Get tested. ADA Alert Day, the fourth Tuesday in March, is a day when Americans are urged to “Join the Million Challenge” and take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if they are at risk for developing the disease. By answering a few simple questions about age, weight, family history and other risk factors, it’s easy for anyone to find out if they are in danger of developing type 2 diabetes. In support of Alert Day, T-fal ActiFry will donate $1, up to $20,000, between March 22 and April 22, 2011 to the Association for each person who visits www.stopdiabetes.org and completes the Diabetes Risk Test.
Everyone should be aware of the risk factors for diabetes. People who are overweight, not physically active (living a sedentary lifestyle) and over the age of 45 should consider themselves at risk for the disease.
• Eat for your health If you are overweight, losing weight is one of the most important things you can do to prevent diabetes. A healthy diet is not only based on healthy food ingredients and small portion sizes, but also on healthy cooking methods. Together, those three don’t have to leave you feeling deprived or restricted. One option for low-fat cooking is the revolutionary T-fal ActiFry. Its innovative heat pulse system and stirring paddle ensures even cooking and distribution, using little or no oil for each dish. The ActiFry also comes with a 38-page recipe book, developed in part by nutritionist and registered dietitian Ellie Krieger, which features a variety of recipes for main entrees, side dishes, snacks and even desserts. 11 SCM
• Get active Exercising is a great way to help manage your weight and lower blood glucose levels, as well as help you feel better about yourself and improve overall health. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes most days and choose aerobic exercises that get the heart pumping such as walking, jogging, swimming and bicycling. Start slowly, gradually increasing the intensity and length of your workout as your fitness level increases. Once you create an exercise routine that works for you, you’ll find it isn’t that hard to keep going - you’ll feel great and have more energy as time goes on. For more information on how you can support the cause, or to learn more about how ActiFry, T-fal and the American Diabetes Association are working together to stop diabetes, visit www.stopdiabetes.org.
Helping people who are living with diabetes save on essential medicines and products Diabetes is one of the nation’s most debilitating and costly conditions. Because symptoms can become severe and even life-threatening, management of this chronic condition is essential. In fact, many of the nearly 26 million adults living with diabetes can maintain a healthier lifestyle using life-saving medicines and products to monitor and control blood sugar levels.
Unfortunately, individuals and families affected by diabetes may have difficulty affording these medicines and products if they don’t have prescription coverage. Skipping medicines or not tracking blood sugar levels due to financial limitations can increase the chances of potentially life-threatening health complications. “It is critical that people living with diabetes have access to the appropriate medications and products needed to properly maintain their health,” says John W. Griffin Jr., chair of the board for the American Diabetes Association. “In many instances, people living with diabetes also suffer from other chronic conditions that require medication to maintain their health.
Disease management, including lifestyle modifications and medication compliance, is often an important part of staying healthy for a person with diabetes.” Fortunately, people with diabetes can find resources that offer savings on medicines or even free medicines. One program is the Together Rx Access Card, which allows people with diabetes to visit their neighborhood pharmacist and save on many brand-name medications and products. Included in the list are blood glucose meters and test strips, as well as medications used to treat many other common conditions including hypertension and high cholesterol. Savings are also available on generic products. “As an uninsured person living with diabetes who also has high blood pressure and other chronic conditions, I was having difficulty paying for my medications,” says Gloris Deel of Maryland. “I don’t know how I would have made it without the Together Rx Access Program. Without the savings, I couldn’t afford to pay for all the medicines I need to stay healthy.” To learn more about participating pharmacies and the list of products included in the Program, visit TogetherRxAccess.com. And to learn more about diabetes and living with diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org or call (800) DIABETES.
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beauty The secret to red-carpet-ready skin: Caring for it from the inside and outside.
Healthy skin is a Hollywood staple and getting a gorgeous look does not need to take a team of professionals. Instead, the key to looking like a star starts with a healthy lifestyle. Ninety-two percent of women say living a healthy lifestyle is important and they spend 1.7 hours a week reading or talking about having a healthier lifestyle, according to market research company Mintel.
Celebrity dermatologist Dr. Jody Levine of Plastic Surgery and Dermatology of NYC, who recently partnered with Dial Lotions, offers simple tips to achieve star-worthy skin and your own healthy glow:
How to care for skin on the inside:
MODEL NAME
• Exposure to smoke, sun and other toxins can result in free radical damage, leaving skin looking dull. To combat this, eat foods rich in antioxidants vitamins A, C and E, such as green tea, blueberries and pomegranates.
hours of sleep and eight glasses of water a day. This helps lower stress and flushes the system of toxins that build up throughout the day.
• You’ve probably heard that omega-3 is good for your heart, but did you know it’s also essential for skin health as a way to restore your natural glow? Most commonly found in fish, omega-3 also comes from walnuts and flax.
• Damaging UV rays are present year-round. Therefore, it’s important to wear sunscreen even in winter when the sun is at its weakest. UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Amino acids act as an excellent anti-aging source because they help lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated. Look for amino acids in proteins such as eggs and turkey, and in onions and almonds for a healthy dose of this essential building block. • Plenty of sleep and hydration is also necessary for glowing skin. According to doctors, eight is the magic number - eight 13 SCM
How to care for skin on the outside:
• Skin craves a daily dose of vitamins to keep it looking healthy. Choose a moisturizing product like Dial NutriSkin Lotion, which is fortified with a unique BioNutrient complex that provides skin with a customized daily dose of nutrition. This complex includes a blend of vitamins, minerals and nutrients tailored to combat different skin
needs. The result: healthier skin in three days. • A daily cleanser is important to remove makeup and any buildup that accumulates throughout the day. Choose a cleanser that is gentle and non-drying. When dealing with breakouts, stay away from spot treatments and using products that contain alcohol and benzoyl peroxide. Instead, use an all-over toner so that you don’t create dry patches. • If you’re concerned about the effects of aging, an over-the-counter retinol may help. Apply beneath your moisturizer to decrease signs of aging. Follow Dial at www.Facebook.com/Dial and via twitter at @DialNutriSkin for a daily dose of mind, body and lifestyle tips.
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new face
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Katrina Garnes Katrina D. Garnes is a model as well as a full-time student. She attends Francis Marion University in Florence South Carolina. She is currently majoring in Mass Communications focusing in Television Broadcasting. Ms. Garnes is the Vice president of the student media organization. Her goal is to become a news anchor and one day host my own television show, however she enjoy modeling just as well. I Ms. Garnes have been modeling for three years. Her experience includes print, promotional, advertising, runway, and video. While perusing a career in television broadcasting and her modeling career have begun to coincide. She is currently assisting the upcoming local show “Sol Session� with on sight interviews. Ms. Garnes also does personal projects with videographers doing interviews at local events and with local artists, producers, engineers, and etc. She will also start her internship at WMBF News in Myrtle Beach for the upcoming semester.
Booking Info: Florence, South Carolina Webpage: facebook.com/modelkatrinagarnes.com
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community The Excelsior Club We sometimes forget our history. Here in Charlotte, the Excelsior Club has such a history. Located on Betties Ford Road about one-half mile north of the main entrance to Johnson C. Smith University, the Excelsior Club was for many years the leading private black social club in the Southeast, and one of the largest of its kind on the East Coast. Now it is the oldest black-owned club in the country. In addition to its importance as the only social club for black professionals in the area, it also became a political focal point of the city and county for both black and white candidates for office. It is a meeting place for boosters of Johnson C. Smith University. Started in 1944 in a house built in the 1910s, the club took on its present appearance in the early 1950s. It was on the chitlin’ circuit for some of the countries entertainers like James Brown, Al Green, BB King, and so many more. Not only does it have this prestige history, but it is named as a historical site. It was given its historical status in September of 1985 for the following reason: Excelsior Club possesses a special significance in terms of Charlotte-Mecklenburg. The Commission bases its judgment on the following considerations: 1) the original owner, “Jimmie” McKee (1913-1985), was a leading black philanthropist, political activist, and businessman in Charlotte; 2) the Excelsior Club has enjoyed the reputation as being among: the most influential social institutions in the black community of Charlotte; and 3) the Excelsior Club attained architectural appointments in 1952 which make it perhaps the finest example of the Art Modern style in Mecklenburg County (written in the cmh page)
Taj Ferguson / Excelsior Club
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The Excelsior Club was founded in 1944 by a gentleman who wanted to give the community a social club of their own. At that time, there was no place like this around for the black community. Jimmy McKee gave the community this vision. The founding and the success of the Excelsior Club is that of its original owner, James Robert “Jimmie” McKee (1913-1985). After Mr. McKee, the club changed hands several times. Each owner bought the club to keep the on-going legacy alive. Mr. McKee passed away in January of 2011. The club was sold in 1985 to Ken Koontz, Omar Leatherman, and Phil Hatchet. They kept the legacy going until the late 80s. At that time it was sold to Pete Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham ran the business until 2005, then Mr. James Ferguson, ESQ. purchased it. Mr. Ferguson is one of North Carolina’s leading Civil Rights Attorneys. He was instrumental in desegregating the schools in North Carolina. James Ferguson was again recognized as one of North Carolina’s Super Lawyers in the areas of Personal Injury (medical malpractice and general plaintiff work) and Civil Rights/First Amendment. Mr. Ferguson was also again listed among the Top 100 lawyers in the state based on receiving among the highest point totals in the nomination, research and blue ribbon review process. (THETOP100LAWYERSNorth CarolinaSuperLawyers2008) James Ferguson has served in a number of teaching positions including: Adjunct Faculty Member for Harvard University Law School; Adjunct Faculty Member for North Carolina Central University Law School; Faculty Member of the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA).Mr. Ferguson brought his sons onboard to actually run the club. Taj Ferguson graduated from West Charlotte H.S. and received a B.A. degree from North Carolina Central University. After graduation, Taj resided in Durham until his father presented him with this great opportunity. His other brother Jay handles all the legal side of the business. Taj is that hands-on person at the Excelsior, handling all the day-to-day operations. The Fergusons are the new future for the Excelsior. As a father of a beautiful six year-old daughter, his days and nights are full.
The Fergusons are keeping all the traditions going. Their goal is to continue the long standing standards of the Excelsior Club by being the center of the Black community, giving a platform for our local politicians, and continuing with the traditions of its MLK Event every year. The Excelsior Club also has a non-profit organization called ECHO (Excelsior Club Humanities Organization). Their premier function is to give back to the community. They hold fundraisers every month, feed the elderly at there annual Christmas Dinner, and so much more. The Excelsior Club is not just a club, it is the type of place that holds a community together. They do have one rule; you must be over 30 to enter. Their membership opens up every year. If you are a member, no one gives it up. They renew every year. It is a privilege to belong to the Excelsior Club, so not many memberships come open. But that does not stop anyone from coming out and enjoying what this club has to offer. They have a great lineup all week. There is something for everyone all week. Here is the week’s line up: Tuesday - Tuesday Night Fish Fry Wednesday - Card Night Thursday - 30 Thursday Friday - Step Classes with the Purple Steppers Saturday - Normal Dance Night with a DJ Sunday - Event Night / Hold your event at the Excelsior Club With its long standing heritage, it will surely continue to grow. Its legacy will continue for many years to come.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce Presents
1st Annual Fundraising Gala “Reaching Beyond Survival, Rising to Success� August 13, 2011 Westin Hotel / Charlotte, NC For more information visit our website www.cmbcc.org 19 SCM
“Ventilation�
The New Release from Neo-Soul Artist Danyell Cherece. To find out more about the artist and her music, visit her on Facebook and also at reverbnation.com/danyellcherece.
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is Every Day for Cybertary -Charlotte A mother and daughter prove that by working together, you can build a growing team. What makes a successful company in this
economy? Put together the mother-daughter team that heads Cybertary-Charlotte and you’ve got a winning combination from the start. Emma Farmer is Owner and Regional Developer for Cybertary-Charlotte. Aisha Home, her youngest daughter and Account Manager, run the company like a well oiled machine. Aisha works side by side with her mother, who she refers to as Ms. Emma on the job. Off the job she is Mom.
Cybertary - Charlotte
Emma Farmer / Owner-Regional Developer 21 SCM
Aisha refers to her mother as “the better half” of Cybertary-Charlotte, and says, “Although we both have different personality types, we work very well together. We each have roles that support each other. She’s the negotiator, and I’m the facilitator.” Emma adds, “I’m a baby-boomer traditionalist with all old school values, and she is generation X with all the computer savvy know how. I’ll always be her mother and mentor, but we both know our places in the business.” Aisha also adds that her mother’s strong marketing skills attributes to the success of the business and affords us the oppor-tunity to land contracts with companies who need administrative support.
Aisha Home / Account Manager
Aisha remains in the background working tirelessly to complete projects and tasks while her mother pounds the pavement for new and existing business. Emma adds “I inspect what I expect.” Emma refers to Aisha as “My Cybertary” Since acquiring Cybertary, it’s been full steam ahead. Emma is thrilled with the flexibility that Cybertary has afforded her. She has a successful business, peace of mind, and the time to develop and grow additional relationships. More importantly, she now has time to spend with her husband Ronnie, eldest daughter Jessica who works in the medical field in Cary, NC, and her lovely grandson Elijah, who now at almost 5 years old calls grandma “his favorite girl,” and of course Aisha providing the technical backup and support that help to enable this mother-daughter team to succeed. Emma Farmer had been an educator both in North Carolina and in Florida for 13 years, and after relocating from Florida, she was unable to secure a position in her related field. Emma found being unemployed was not part of her character. She had her husband who was her support and back bone of their family, but Emma enjoyed working and being productive.
Although we both have different personality types, we work very well together. We each have roles that support each other. She’s the negotiator, and I’m the facilitator. While she also was raising her own two daughters, Emma was also raising her sisters. She took on this responsibility after her mother’s untimely death from cancer. Desperately wanting to work, Emma decided that a change and challenge would be good. Emma started seeking employment and the first place that she happened upon was the Residence Inn by Marriott, Raleigh NC. With no prior hotel experience, and only her drive and determination Emma anxiously accepted, a $5.00 an hour desk clerk position, despite her esteemed accreditations. Emma took the job seriously and decided to give it everything she had. Within 30 days after her initial hire the hotel found itself in the midst of a slow season. Fearing the worst for her newly acquired position, Emma waited while management pondered her fate. The following Monday to her surprise, they offered Emma a position created
especially for her as administrative assistant/accounting clerk. From there, her career with the hotel business began. She worked through the ranks of several Marriott International hotels and received 9 promotions in doing so. She held positions from desk clerk, to accounting clerk, Director of Sales, General Manager and Area General Manager just to name a few. As Area General Manager, she supported 8 additional hotels, while managing her own. In 14 years, Emma lived in 6 different states and managed to move back to her home state prior to leaving the business. In January 2002, Emma joined a local franchise company, SREE Hotels where she began as a General Manager, was promoted to Area General Manager after just 11 months and when she left in August of 2009 to become an Entrepreneur she was the Vice President of Operations and Sales and her portfolio consisted of 17 hotels. You may ask yourself, why would an individual who had such success in the corporate world with major achievements leave it all in the midst of a world wide economic crisis for something totally new, different and adventurous? The answer, Entrepreneurship! Emma had always wanted to own her own business. The second reason, and most important was her precious grandson Elijah. She had a revelation in April of 2009 that changed her life forever. She realized that she not spent quality time with her grandson Elijah since his birth, and had not spent the amount of quality time with her family that she desired. Emma realized that she had sank her heart and soul into her career for nearly 23 years. Her work family was her family for more than 10 hours a day. In April of 2009, while still working diligently in corporate America, Emma began to ponder becoming an Entrepreneur. Then came the big question from her family and friends, “Are you sure you want to do this?” Emma replied, “Now is as good as any.” From that point, Ronnie, her daughters and the many, many friends around the globe supported Emma’s decision. She gave her 23 years in the hotel industry a fond farewell, Emma opened Cybertary-Charlotte in August of 2009 and she has never looked back.
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Cybertary Charlotte continued from page 22
Cybertary’s Founder and CEO Patricia Beckman, says, “We’re thrilled to bring Emma Farmer and Aisha Horne on board and are excited to see the expansion of the Cybertary network across the U.S., She is like a breath of fresh air.” Cybertary, Inc was founded in 2005 by Beckman in Roseville, CA to meet the growing demand for reliable and professional business support. Emma states that during an initial interview with Patricia Beckman, she immediately felt the sense of passion that Patricia had for her business by the number of times she stated, “Because, it’s just the right thing to do.” Aisha also spent 8 years following in the footsteps of her mother. She started as a desk clerk at the Residence Inn by Marriott at the very same location where her mother began. Aisha, much like her mother, always wanted to be an Entrepreneur. She liked the thought of staying at home and the flexibility should she decide to start a family. When Aisha received the phone call in Atlanta, GA from her parents, asking her input on Cybertary and about her mother’s decision to become an entrepreneur, feeling it was her dream as well, Aisha gave a “thumbs up” and left Atlanta to come on board with her mother, never looking back. Cybertary-Charlotte is a virtual assistant company that assists any size company with business and administrative services. Cybertary works time on tasks to save clients time and money. The client is able to be work on their business instead of in their business. A Cybertary is a highly skilled professional working as a virtual assistant (VA) to provide administrative support and specialized services to busi-nesses, entrepreneur’s, executives and busy people. Cybertary works if and when you need assistance and takes the time to understand your needs to consistently deliver quality work. Your Cybertary account manager will assign your work to the most qualified Cybertary in our diversely skilled team of VA’s. Most important, Cybertary works the same way as a regular administrative employee does, only more efficiently, more cost effectively, and with a broader skill set. You have the direct communication and personalized attention of your own Cybertary account manager without the need to purchase office equipment, overhead or benefits.
Cybertary-Charlotte has 150 ways to assist individuals and companies. Hiring Cybertary is the perfect way to get the precise help you need when you need it with-out over-extending your budget. Aisha states, “On our team, we have stay at home moms, individuals who are semi retired, some who have lost their previous jobs due to lay-offs, and those simply looking for part-time work. Cybertary- Charlotte utilizes all the various skill sets that these people have to offer. People sometimes ask “What do you need to become a subconsultant?” Emma replies, “Its simple, a computer, phone, an all-in-one machine setup, a need for commitment, a passion for work, and the desire to be in control of your own destiny.” What lies ahead for Cybertary-Charlotte? The business continues to grow and by October of 2010, during the first 14 months of operation, Cybertary-Charlotte had exceeded 3 of their 2 year goals. Emma is consistently mentoring Aisha on her marketing and networking skills so that one day, she will be able to take over and manage the company. Aisha loves working with her mother, and says that she is a great mentor. Emma continues to see herself in her current position for at least another 10 years. Emma would then like to semi-retire and take on more of an advisory role and focus on Cybertary’s more seasoned accounts, while her daughter steps on board to gradually fill her mother’s shoes. Emma looks forward to the day that she and her husband Ronnie can travel more. They have been friends and partners since their young teens, and have successfully raised a very loving family. Ronnie has supported his wife Emma in everything she has done. Emma states “He has several Cybertary signs on his truck; people call us asking, what is Cybertary?” Emma calls it, “free marketing!” Emma is truly happy with her life. She has the best of both worlds; the enjoyment of being an entrepreneur, and spending time with her family. “Family is always there, family is important, and family is the key,” says Emma. “We are consistently assisting individuals to grow their business every day,” says Emma. When asked what piece of advice she would give to someone starting out, she replies, “Be willing to listen, and you can learn something new every day.” You can learn from anyone no matter their age, profession, or background. Success is never final.” 23 SCM
community leader Veronica Giles Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce Fresh New Look for the Future Veronica Giles is an Alabama native.
Ms. Giles is the first Executive Director for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce (CMBCC). As the new CMBCC Executive Director, Ms. Giles is developing new initiatives for the Black Chamber. Since October of 2010, she has already increased the Chamber’s membership by 50 percent. She works diligently to offer Chamber members opportunities that enable them to improve their businesses, build business relationships, and improve the Charlotte-metro business community. She expects all members to share their expertise to help other businesses and the Charlotte metro community at-large. On behalf of the Chamber, Ms. Giles partners with established businesses to participate as a role model for start-up businesses. These partnerships allow the Chamber to provide its members with exposure to businesses that can help them grow and prosper.
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She is the fresh face of the CMBCC. This has become her passion and it shows when you speak with her. Her energy is contagious. Her philosophy is “It is not about me, it is about our members.� Since coming to the chamber, she has hit the ground running. She tirelessly attends city board meetings where she meets with major corporations and small business owners. She is goes everywhere she feels is necessary to get the word out about jobs, contracts, business, and empowerment seminars in order to help the small business owners of Charlotte. When their businesses thrive, so does the economy of Charlotte. This is done by educating them so that they will start to grow their revenues to support more employees. The re-branding strategy of the CMBCC is to grow its membership, be a positive force for small businesses, be the place for business-to-business referrals, and to help to cultivate and grow new businesses. Ms. Giles now has ongoing business seminars for small business owners. This country was built on the entrepreneurial spirit. The CMBCC, and Ms. Giles wants to ensure that each person has that opportunity to achieve that dream. Ms. Giles holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Tuskegee University and is a Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt. She is currently enrolled in the University of Phoenix Master of Business Administration Program with a concentration in Global Management. Ms. Giles is also President and CEO of Vital Six Sigma Quality Business Service, a business management consulting com-
pany that specializes in Six Sigma Processes and Lean Tools applications with additional specialty business services. She was the first person to hold the office of President of the Carolina Chapter for the Lean Manufacturing Consortium. She is a member of the American Society for Quality, Project Management Institute, and the National Association of Professional Women. In addition to her professional status as a service to her community, Ms. Giles serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Coltrane Life Center Adult Day Care in Concord, North Carolina. Her philosophy for living includes loving God, cherishing family, and having a positive attitude for daily living. Her passion for life has become more emphasized since the death of her mother a few years ago. They were extremely close. She realizes life is too short to analyze the good and the bad of each moment, so she chooses to find the good in each day regardless of the circumstance. She moved her parents from Alabama to North Carolina and now enjoys spending time with her father as much as she can. She is very close to her four older sisters. They are always available for ideas and giving advice. They also enjoy spending time together during the holidays. Veronica enjoys running, cycling, and watching professional football. She is a devoted Carolina Panthers fan.
Visit the website www.cmbcc.org and become a member
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Sunshine Anderson By Nicole Camack
Sunshine Anderson is the girlfriend to call on matters of the heart. With quite a few relationship songs and an instant hit of a debut single, Heard It All Before, she is no stranger to the music industry and no novice in the game of love. Her tell-it-like-it-is approach remains a strong advocate for women’s independence in her third album, aptly titled The Sun Shines Again. Through a decade of music, Sunshine has faced a beaucoup of criticism in regards to her feminist lyrics. While some say her songs empower women, others are hasty to accuse the singer of emasculating men. “I talk a lot of junk,” confesses the artist. “I want women to feel empowered. Even though I may be teaching women to empower themselves, I’m not saying that you don’t need a man. I’m not saying that men are no good. Believe in yourself that you can get that new job, that you are a great mother: husband or not, single mom or not.” Sunshine adamantly denies accusations of male-bashing. She hopes by bringing awareness through her candid lyrics, men will understand that women want to and should be treated with dignity and respect. Admiring the role women usually play in holding a family and relationship together, the singer speaks highly of a male having a dominant role so long as he’s a true gentleman.
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“I don’t believe in stripping a man of his pride or breaking a brother down. I just want him to learn how to treat me; I want him to be the head of my household.” Men can dish the dirt but then they have a problem with what comes out of [women’s] mouths,” observes the artist, combating double standards in society. Although women are taught from birth to be prim, proper and submissive, the artist will quickly clarify that this does not mean women should be used, abused and silenced. Sunshine emphatically embraces her music. For women who are hesitant to speak up against ill-treatment or who may not realize their own worth, she declares undoubtedly, “I can be the voice.” Anderson hopes to remain an inspiration for women with her new album. “It is my most personal album,” confesses the artist thoughtfully, reflecting on her own assortment of relationship ills. With songs like 2nd Fiddle, which rejects the idea of a woman being an afterthought to a man’s indecisiveness, and the album’s debut single, Lie To Kick It, which reveal a man’s ego-driven lies that dictated his quest to manipulate a woman, the album is certainly empowering and intimate in its position on relationships and expectations. Critics are not the only clouds that have attempted to reign over Anderson’s sunshine. Rumors that the singer was dropped from her first label snowballed throughout the years. With the newly structured label’s plethora of already-established female artists like Missy Elliott, Tamia and Brandy, Sunshine’s album was set to be shelved despite the success and momentum behind Your Woman. Selling over 800,000 albums largely due to the debut single, the album debuted at #5 on Billboard charts. Still, lack of radio play with other singles such as Lunch or Dinner plagued the album’s ultimate potential. In addition to album sales, the singer cites major achievements of being the most nominated new artist at the Lady of Soul Train Awards and the Grammy nomination for the Heard It All Before Dance mix. Her proudest moment, however, is a personal one, “My 3-year old daughter is my biggest accomplishment,” confesses Anderson. With accomplishments have also come disappointments through the years, and staying motivated is something Anderson prides herself on. “I have had downfalls in my life where I didn’t want to do it anymore,” reflects the singer humbly. “And you have to pull yourself out of that real quick. You have to stay prayed up.” The singer feels with a birth name such as Sunshine, maintaining focus and optimism is essential, and recognizes her blessing of success daily. “I set goals for myself and set time limits on reaching those goals. The first thing I do in the morning is wake up and assess my life. I do have those days that can be down days, but because I’m aware of it, I speak positivity.” Anderson remains in awe at the sheer volume of prospective artists who may never make it, promoting themselves tirelessly on social networking sites such as Twitter. With genuine sincerity and apparent gratitude she expresses reflectively, “Everybody wants it but there are only a few who are chosen.” Being in the industry over the past ten years has brought Anderson through several changes to both music and the industry. With what some would call the dilution of real music has come the diminishing investment from record labels. “Labels are not spending the money that they were spending before,” reveals the artist, who says she works much harder now than she did before, but has learned valuable lessons over the past decade.
One thing that has remained constant is Anderson’s affinity for R&B music. “I’m a true R&B head. R&B music is what I grew up listening to. I remember when they started to play rap music during the daytime. Rap music used to be an after 5 thing. I didn’t have a TV in my room; I grew up with a radio until I got to college. R&B music is what I know.” Although influenced by an older genre of R&B music, Sunshine currently relates to artists such as Melanie Fiona and Marsha Ambrosia. Anderson’s R&B beginnings trace back to her childhood, watching Apollo with her dad, and having a mom who majored in Music. At the same time, Sunshine’s parents, like many parents whose children wish to pursue fame, were cautious to cultivate her singing talent early on. Even upon learning of her record deal in her 20s, the singer initially hid the news from her parents, who did not want her to quit her stable, government job. Sunshine, unlike her parents, is an advocate for allowing children to explore the arts and their creativity. She reflects on her own experience, “What if I had stayed in the position on that job that I didn’t want, who would I be now? My parents always supported me, but always said you need a job, you can sing on weekends.” With such an upbringing Sunshine always wanted to go to college, which is ironically where she received her big break for the music industry. Although she acknowledges that stability comes with a 9-5 job, Anderson emphatically believes that had she not taken a risk for her passion, she would be unhappy. “I would hate myself for the rest of my life.” Although her schedule can be quite busy, Sunshine does find time to do things other than sing. “I like to read. I love to cook, and I’m pretty good,” brags the singer lightheartedly. As an outgoing person, she also enjoys being outdoors, and spending time with friends, her daughter and family. And if there is any time left? “One thing I’ve learned is that in this business you better sleep while you can.” But Sunshine is not the sit still type. Although music is her forte, the artist is also a licensed cosmetologist. “Hair has always been a big thing for me,” says the singer who is looking to open a hair salon in Charlotte soon. With three albums under her belt, Sunshine’s next creative outlet is a reality show that will shine her experiences in a new light. Hoping her life, like her music, can inspire and empower, Anderson explains, “There’s a story to be told and I want my story to be told the right way.” With so many promising ventures underway in addition to her new album, Sunshine will definitely be on the horizon for quite some time.
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cover story
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I got a call from Steve Harvey’s manager who owned the comedy club that I had worked in before and was offered a job with the show. God gave me a job when I didn’t even know I needed one.
When you think of comedy so many people come to mind, but Thomas W. Miles II may not be the first until you say NEPHEW TOMMY. The funny man on the Steve Harvey Morning Show, He is known for loving the big girls and his phone pranks which are over-the-top funny. People want to know where he came from, and who is this man we hear on the radio every morning? Well, let me give you an inside look into Thomas W. Miles II aka Nephew Tommy.
“I would carry a note pad around in London, watching and writing what I thought was funny, he said. The first time he went on stage was not what he had hoped for. However, after perfecting his script, the following time he received a standing ovation and Mr. Vandross said, “You got it kid!” His comedy career was on the right path. He had a solid 20 minute act and he was moving. The European tour lasted 3 weeks and then he was back in the States.
Thomas W. Miles II is a native of Houston, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M with a BA degree in Art. You would never think that he started his career in Shakespeare Theater, but that’s right - Shakespeare! He traveled all over the country and even to London with a Shakespeare theater group. He is a serious Thespian actor. “But theater is like a school teacher,” he says, “You are off every summer”. He was known by his friends as being very funny, so one night his friends encouraged him to enter an open mike stand-up comedy competition, and he won. The production manager at this Houston, TX comedy club was the production manager for Luther Vandross. The manager enjoyed Tommy so much that he asked him to put a tape together. The next thing you know, he was asked to open for Luther in Rochester NY, and once again the people where laughing so hard they where crying. The manager told Tommy that Luther loved him and wanted to keep him on. He asked him to be the opening act for Luther on tour, and that was the start of his comedy career lasting three years, bringing him back to Europe, but this time for his comedy.
Luther was going back into the studio, putting Thomas out of work for six months. So, he made the decision to go out to Los Angeles. He knew some actor friends he could crash with. “It was seven people in this small apartment, I had a pillow and a blanket and a corner.” I got a call from Steve Harvey’s manager who owned the comedy club that I had worked in before and was offered a job with the show.” God gave me a job when I didn’t even know I needed one.” He was speaking of Luther Vandross, who had taken ill, and never went back out on the stage again. Nephew Tommy has several characters he performs, like Eugene and Oatmeal. He has combined them for his stand-up show. “It is different than most shows you may see. First I come out for about 20-30 minutes, than Eugene comes out, than Oatmeal, and then I come back out at the end to perform again.” This is what we call perfection - a man who truly is perfecting his craft. Nephew Tommy is very well known for his radio pranks. When asked about the concept for this idea he said, “They were (Continued on Page 35) 30
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C.C. Merit:
Keeping Hip-Hop on Its Grind By Calliope Hughes
Hip-Hop can never die. It’s a never-ending thing; it’s an unstoppable force.
The name may not ring a bell at first, but the
music has probably touched a chord or two. Rapper, producer, and business entrepreneur C.C. Merit is swiftly becoming a household name in the hip-hop community. The story behind his name is an inspiring one. The ‘Merit’ in Carolina Cas Merit comes from the artist’s two-year delay in graduating high school. In his last semester with plans to drop out, one teacher inspired him to do his work and focus, resulting in his refreshed dedication to school. Receiving a Certificate of Merit was a manifestation of his hard work, and embodiment of his keen ability to grind and hustle. His music, having saved him from an avenue of trouble and keeping him focused, seemed reason enough to make it a part of his moniker. Along with name recognition, a catchphrase, almost a brand at this point, has become attached to the artist. ‘The Grind Continues’ is a concept that Merit launched in order to display his approach to music; constantly motivating him, and his own pursuit of bettering himself. The grind is definitely continuing all over the nation, and has its beginning’s with the song “You’re All I Need To Get By” by Method Man and Mary J. Blige. Rapping since the age of four, this song catapulted Merit into his lifelong enthrallment with the power of words over beats. Such an allure adds to the artist’s dedication to original sound. “It’s a new wave I’m trying to create,” he describes. “My style is fresh, it’s new, and it’s what hip-hop really needs.” Both rapper and producer, Merit credits finding his niche and original sound to his beginnings in production, absorbing himself in the total aspect of a song. With his many roles in music, Merit’s creative process involves looking inward. “The song is already in me,” he says. Pulling his inspiration from life, such hits as DJ Rockin (Shoutout to the DJ), for example, came from his respect for the grind of DJs. His musical inspiration comes from artists like Nate Dogg,
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Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Jay-Z. Artists who have transcended into the mainstream to make their own distinctive mark in the industry. “I don’t like followers,” Merit says. Increased followers of the latest fad and replication of certain sounds in music have prompted discussions around whether the apocalypse of hip-hop has descended upon the music. “I don’t think hip-hop is dead. I don’t think it was ever in jeopardy of dying,” he says. Citing the likes of producers, artists and all who work hard in their passion for music, Merit feels such beliefs were only a phase, “propaganda” that was no real threat to actual music, especially hip-hop. Merit says emphatically, “[Hip-Hop] can never die. It’s a never-ending thing; it’s an unstoppable force.” The artist ponders the approach of others, who in knowing what hip-hop has been and the power it has, desire to set their standards so low, almost as a disrespect to the sheer sanctity of it all. Refusing to sacrifice his own originality, he confesses candidly, “I could’ve got signed many times before. But I knew I wouldn’t have any control. Many artists jump on the first [deal] that comes, and become a puppet.” In today’s society the influence of having a record label is unparalleled, many times constraining an artist’s creative control. “A lot of artists have to submit to record labels and make the music they are told to make,” says Merit. The artist credits mix-tapes as an avenue to showcase who they really are with that freedom. He cautions though, that many artists lack the creativity and depth to keep a fan base, allowing frustration with obstacles to overshadow their passion. To upcoming artists, he offers sound advice, “Don’t ever quit what you’re doing. Just try a new way of doing it. With music you have to relate to people. If you’re just making music that you like, then you’re going to be your only fan.” Although being a successful original artist seems difficult to do in such a mainstream-frenzied society, Merit has found a good balance. He does, however, believe that controversial illumination is the biggest issue in the music industry. “People feed into it too often, I know it’s a real issue and it’s something that they have to deal with, but people just spend too much time on it.” The most glorified and questioned item in the music industry is perhaps the elusive Illuminati, an alleged group of powerful influencers who are believed to satanically require sacrifice for success. They are believed to have helped boost the careers of certain artists such as Jay-Z and Kanye West, and in doing so, they influence mainstream and popular thought. Merit is not always so serious when it comes to music. Realizing the power of good music on emotions, he hopes people are able to dance, enjoy themselves, and walk away from his music uplifted. Merit feels his appeal and image have a lot to do with his success. “I feel like if
I was doing the same music, but was the exact opposite as far as appealing, I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today.” The artist certainly has a long road of continued success ahead of him. While success looks different for everyone, Merit seems selfless in its fruition, and appreciates the many people who have helped him along the way. “I want to do things for other people before I do things for myself,” he says. His first action would be putting his mom in a larger home. In addition to his rap career, Merit also helps other artists as well as managing Lesan Talent Agency, a marketing and branding company. His time is split as both artist and business man. Each complement and complicate the other. “Being an artist I get kind of impatient wanting things to happen now... but being a businessman I know that certain things have to happen in time” he says. Seeing himself in magazines is one of his biggest accomplishments, and being able to witness a product of his hard work. His motivation comes from his mom, his girlfriend, and his aspirations to be an independent man. He embraces the thought of being a role-model, but stresses that he is also human and does not want to be put on a pedestal with expectations of absolute perfection. “I know what I’m doing is way bigger than me,” Merit says. With a positive outlook on life and a sense of humor to complement his intense dedication to his passion, Merit disregards negativity to focus on his bigger purpose. “When it comes to haters, I know they’re there, I don’t focus on them,” he says. “I only focus on the positive.” And when challenges do present themselves as unavoidable, Merit’s faith keeps him calm. “I pray first,” says Merit. “I take it to God.” Such insight can be largely attributed to The Alchemist, a book to which Merit accredits much of his clarity. “It’s lifechanging. It has put a lot of things into perspective.” Also lifechanging, is the notion of starting with yourself on the road to success. “Don’t sleep on yourself. Because if you sleep on yourself, everyone else will sleep on you too,” says Merit. “Even if you have management, take the initiative to do what you have to do. Do as much for yourself as possible.” Merit also encourages everyone to use social networking as a vital tool in self-promotion. As for his next moves, C.C. Merit can be found pursuing modeling and promoting his soon-to-be released album expected to make it debut this summer. His single DJ Rockin’ (Shout out to the DJ), which is already on the radio, has an accompanying video soon to be released. For more information on the rising star, visit his facebook page or his blog TheGrindContinues. Blogspot.com. Also, follow the self-proclaimed social networker on Twitter @CCMerit to see how ‘The Grind Continues’ in real time.
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Danyell Cherece By Nicole Camack
The brightest star on the music scene
hitting Charlotte is Neo-Soul artist Danyell Cherece. She is crooning her way into the hearts of fans with her rich, soulful voice and passion to sing songs that connect with people on a deeper level. “My songs usually tell a story,” explains Cherece, citing that her inspiration stems from her past experiences, and even things she would like to experience in the future. Embracing her 70’s upbringing, her sound is infused with the influences of Chaka Khan, Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind and Fire, as well as current Neo-Soul artists Jill Scott and Anthony Hamilton. Although singing since the age of four, the singer credits the genesis of her growing talent to singing in the church at the age of 11. As her career flourishes, Danyell Cherece is quite adamant about not only the quality of her music but also making a connection with her listeners. Using songs that focus on relationships of every kind, the singer wants her fans to genuinely relate to her songs. “We all have some type of connection when it comes to our everyday life and living,” the artist states. “I want people to make the connection [and say] ‘Wow, I went through that.” Cherece’s devotion in relating to people has deep roots. Before pursuing music as a career, she worked for 13 years as a behavioral health counselor for at risk children. Understanding people on a deeper level and empathizing with their struggles on a daily basis became her forte, and has transcended to her musical quest.
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I can only talk about what I know... I don’t profess to know anybody’s life but my own... I stay true to myself. Careful not to fall into the mainstream, Cherece carefully composes her content. “I can only talk about what it is that I know,” states the singer. “I don’t profess to know anybody else’s life but my own. I’m the best person that can tell my story, and I’m not going to attempt to tell somebody else’s story, so I stay true to myself.” With that authenticity is an obvious zeal, awareness, and intense focus. Cherece stresses, “I have a passion for what I do. I think that’s what’s missing in a lot of music: there’s no passion, there’s no realness. People are hurting, and there needs to be a connection to that.” When she’s not inspiring listeners through her music, Cherece gains her own encouragement through her long ties to church. The artist keeps motivated by being in the company of positive people, but only those she knows well, loves and trusts. “Sometimes there are imposters that pretend to be one particular thing and are not that,” she cautions. But Cherece does not become caught up in the web of frustration that may loom in the music industry, or in life. The Singer/Producer cherishes quality time, keeping in the forefront her family and 2 daughters. “Being an inspiration to my children is my proudest accomplishment,” cites the artist. Maintaining her authenticity and passion is essential for her family as well as for her listeners. “Some people say they don’t want to be a role model, but whether you want to or not, there is always somebody looking at you.” Cherece hopes to be that breath of fresh air that listeners will be looking for as she puts together her debut album and releases her upcoming single, Ventilation.
To find out more about the artist and her music, visit her on Facebook and also at reverbnation.com/danyellcherece. 34
nephew Tommy continued from page 30
inspired by Ricky Smiley, he gave me the idea based upon some of the things he did.” If you ever heard them you would be surprised at how angry or upset the people get. The following is one that I heard (in a brief synopsis): He called a man and said that he was his neighbor and asked him if he and his wife could be a little quieter making love in the morning. The man started immediately asking questions to make sure that he was indeed his neighbor. Tommy gave him the address and apartment number and stated to the man that this happens almost every morning, and he works at night. The man started to get very upset and he explained to Tommy that he works during the day and leaves his house at a certain time in the morning. Tommy proceeds to tell the man that in the morning it happens, and happens often. When the man heard what time all this was going on, he said, “I am at work, so it can’t be me.” (I was dying laughing)! Tommy continued by saying again that it was happening that very same morning. By this time, the man was so upset he said, “Hold on, I am turning around right now and going home!” With cuss words going on, you could tell that someone was not playing. At that point, Nephew Tommy informs him that he had just been pranked! This is just one of the many that I personally have heard on the show. When asked about pranks he says, “It is not easy; you sometimes have to call 20 people to get a good one. You have to be able to keep them on the line to keep it going. Some people just hang up.” This is Nephew Tommy doing what makes people laugh.
I will never go away from theater, my goal is to perform in three films within the next year or so.
But remember, this is just one side of Thomas W. Miles II. We must not forget his first love, which is acting. It is what started his career and it is his passion. He has a lot of things happening with that. When asked about his acting, he said, “I will never go away from theater, my goal is to perform in three films within the next year or so.” Right now he is touring with his standup comedy show. He’s also working on a one-man show called The Night I talked to God. He has a comedy special coming out in July entitled, Life after 40 in which he talks about things that are happening in our lives today, for example - cheating. President Obama also uses his characters. Looking to go into production soon is a comedy movie called The Limo Driver. It is about a man whose wife is pregnant and the rent is due. He sees an old Lincoln Town car for sale and takes the little bit money he has to buy it. After it’s fixed up, his boy who is a dispatcher sends him all over picking up everyone and he keeps the money in a box in the car. While picking up a fare, they take him to the desert where he has his car jacked with the money inside. The movie scenes take you all over the city at night, and into some strange situations and all the while, he’s trying to get his car and money back. Sounds great doesn’t it? It is written and produced by Avery Williams. So keep your eye open for it. I will not tell you who is starring in it; we’ll keep that a surprise! You can expect to see him all over the big screen in the years to come. Thomas W. Miles II, Shakespearean actor, radio personality, comedian, and actor. His life has all the makings of Academy award written all over it. Look for Volume 4 of Pranks Nephew Tommy and also, look to see when his comedy show will be in a city near youwww.nephewtommy.com
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Adrian Crutchfield: The Man with The Horn Adrian Crutchfield is known primarily for his neo-soul sound. He credits his career to acclaimed jazz-artist Kenny G. At the age of 4, his father was unable to find a sitter so his father took him to a Kenny G. concert in Roanoke, VA. Adrian viewed the show from his father’s shoulders and was noticed by Kenny G. He actually asked Adrian to come on stage. After he finished playing, Kenny G gave Adrian his first saxophone. However, he told his father not to let him start playing until all his teeth had come in. This led Adrian Crutchfield to start playing the saxophone at the young age of 11. In 1998, at the age of 14, Adrian began his career as a professional musician. That year he began performing in shows and clubs all over the Charlotte, North Carolina area. During this time, he established himself on the jazz and R&B scene. Jazz had become not just his craft, but also, his passion. In April of 2008, Adrian received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida State University where he studied commercial music, jazz, and contemporary media. Adrian’s passion has taken him all over the world. In the summer of 2001, at the age of 16, Adrian opened for the national recording artist Regina Belle. His career took off and he has also worked with other major recording artists like Angie Stone.
www.adriancrutchfield.com 01 SCM 37
In 2002, Adrian performed for neo-soul diva Angie Stone for her birthday. Ms Stone offered Adrian a spot in her band on the same night. This led him to play for many more major recording artists such as smooth-jazz icon Kim Waters, American Idolwinner Fantasia Barrino, Heather Headley, Van Hunt, and Vivian Green. In April of 2006, his saxophone playing talent brought him to the notice of Charlotte’s own Grammy-winning artist, Anthony Hamilton. Hamilton asked Adrian to be a part of his touring band, and he has been touring with Hamilton ever since. When asked who was the one of the people he enjoyed playing with he answered, “Anthony Hamilton, not only because he is a great artist, but he is a great man who cares about people” Adrian recalls two occasions in which Anthony Hamilton demonstrated his other side. Once during sound check, Anthony Hamilton overheard the band saying that they had not been paid. He stopped the sound check, got on the phone right there, and informed them that they would not continue until the band got paid. Mr. Hamilton told the band to wait until the money was in their accounts. Second, while in Aruba right after the young girl became missing, “I went out to see the city. When I returned to the hotel, Anthony Hamilton was sitting in the lobby waiting, just like a mother or father who waits up for their children to come home. He sat me down and gave me a nice long talk about the dangers of going out alone.” Adrian feels that live music needs to return to the forefront of entertainment. He has a great respect for today’s styles of music. A lot the rappers today are using live bands such as: Young Jeezy, Maxwell, Jay-Z and so many others. This has started to put so many musicians back to work. At the young age of 26, Adrian is very involved with the young people of the community. He speaks at local high schools about becoming a musician. He also helps young people to understand that you can be great as a musician, demonstrating this by performing today’s music on the saxophone.
“There are no grants for becoming a rapper.” There is so much opportunity out there for becoming a musician. His mentor is Michael Porter. Porter is an internationally known jazz musician, who taught Adrian to pay it forward. He acknowledges him like so many others who recognize his talent and passion and helped him to become known as one of the most popular musicians in the Charlotte area and soon all over world.
To find out more about Adrian Crutchfield, visit him at www.adriancrutchfield.com
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Y2 Management
Proves to be Very Well Rounded
How this simple algebra equation has made a one-ofa-kind successful business. Yolanda Belser CEO and Kimberly
Y2 Management
Yolanda Belser / CEO
KImberly Edmonds / COO
In 1995, the comedy, Freaky Tuesday united all facets of comedy featured at a local Charlotte entertainment venue called Comedy Zone, and was hosted by a local entertainer-comedian named Tone-X. A long friendship began; and in 2008, they formed the foundation of what has now become Tone-X and Friends Comedy Show. Y Square Management added clientele, such as Tone-X, to its growing artist list that now also includes Ida Divine – the next breaking artist and Hip Hop Songstress who’s new single “Grow Up” has just been released. These ladies compliment each other. Yolanda with an expertise in image consulting and artist management, and Kim with the industry operation side and numerous years in corporate public relations and marketing, they make a perfect team. Y Square covers all aspects of entertainment management. This includes: artist development, event productions, image and business consulting, and hospitality services. They have everything to assist their clients in becoming successful. While as a perfect team, they have also been able to build a super support team as well. Their clients represent a large platform of the arts
Edmonds COO of Y Square Management have most certainly done their homework! Y Square Management, a Charlotte based full-service artist management and development company, was established in 2005 when the two merged their individual concepts for managing local Charlotte entertainment. Although each year has been successful by adding new clients to the rooster, both say that 2011 is going to be a ground-breaking year! Their goal is to pioneer the Hollywood movement of entertainment through Charlotte, North Carolina, and across the country.
and creative industry, including comedians, spoken word artists, musicians, R&B and Hip Hop artists.Yolanda and Kimberly are busy devoting their time to cultivating and developing the talents and gifts of their clients to the forefront of the entertainment industry. “Each talent has a process, and deserves time” says Yolanda, “and each one is at a different stage of development.” They have not stopped moving forward. Yolanda is now in Atlanta researching the next stop for Y Square Management. In an industry that is dominated mostly by men, both of these dynamic women have the keys to staying successful; “always take yourself seriously, and keep the emotion out of the equation.”... by understanding your purpose, and sticking to your plan you can remain focused, develop the “thick skin” needed for this type of business, and make things happen. “Believe in what you’re doing, apply the energy necessary, and the money will come.” Success has certainly arrived for these two talented women who now are running the gamut in Charlotte’s entertainment industry.
Visit the new venue for Tone X and Friends Comedy Show, and Y Square Management at “The Lux” every Tuesday night located at 200 East Bland Street beside the Greek Isles restaurant, and directly across from the light rail, or visit their web site at www.y2mgmt.com 39 SCM
Kirk Brown Upscale but not Uptight
Kirk Brown was born in Jamaica and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He had a vision for entertainment promotions. Starting out doing promotions in Newark, he became known on the college set as a man with the upscale flair. He was raised by his mother who is a Pastor in Richmond, Va. When asked about his mother’s thoughts about him taking this path, he said, “She is a little overprotective, but she trust my judgment,” In 2001, a couple of Kirk’s friends decided to move to Charlotte. He saw this as a great opportunity to keep his vision moving, so he relocated to the QC. Upon arriving in Charlotte, Kirk started Six Figure Entertainment, an entertainment company that caters to young professionals that are 25 and up. His events are so upscale that people of any age can enjoy, even if you are the seasoned age of 60. These events are for the grown and sexy people of the QC. His vision was to bring events that where for people like himself, who want the best out of life, and people who want to mix and mingle in an upscale atmosphere.
Kirk Brown’s events quickly became noticed. His vision started several signature events here in Charlotte. The Butter and Cream event is held every year in August and is now on its fifth anniversary. The event is known for its fabulous decorations and outstanding venues and service. When asked about the concept, Brown says, “Cream is pure and smooth, classy. Butter is soft and also smooth. I felt this to be a great combination” Another one of his other signature events is the Red & Black Ball, which is held every year in December and hosted with Charlotte Vibe. In 2010, Six Figure Entertainment hosted its first New Year’s Eve event. 1,500 of Charlotte’s young professionals came out to celebrate. WOW! He did it right and Charlotte was there! That says a lot a about the events that Six Figures produce. Kirk Brown and Six Figure Entertainment has also been a fixture at the CIAA tournament. He’s also ready for the National Democratic Convention, and has his domain name already. Entertainment is his passion and it shows in everything he does. He has a vision, he has creativity, and he stays ahead of the game.You will not see major recording stars at his events. When asked why, he said, “I support all artists and what they do, however, they are too expensive. By the time you pay all of the expenses, the event would be out of reach for the people.
At the end of the day, you are not going home with them. I want to give them upscale events without double the price”. Kirk Brown contributes his success through word-of-mouth and collecting emails of the young professional. Each event receives a special invitation. This young man is not only a visionary, but he also has a purpose. He has a non-profit organization called Real Empowerment. It focuses on teaching how you can succeed through positive resources. “What is the best way to get the message out, bring people out for entertainment, song and beautiful people?” His purpose is to help people with anything that is positive. Some of Charlotte’s own charities receive some of his help through his events such as Battered Women’s Shelter and Books for College. His best friend John was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. John has started a non-profit to bring more awareness to breast cancer in men; Kirk will be working on this with him. Kirk Brown’s purpose also extends to his future. As a single young man of 32, he hopes one day to have a family of his own. He says, “I want to leave a legacy for my children.” Kirk Brown and Six Figure Entertainment truly bring that element of class, elegance, and sophistication to Charlotte. No gimmicks, just great locations, great atmosphere, and some of Charlotte’s great people. You have not seen sophistication until you attend of one his events! Check them out! I promise you will not regret it! 40
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BJ Murphy
Using his creative energy to keep Charlotte informed!
BJ Murphy began his career while
attending Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, while working at WSHA, the local college station, and later hosting at Raleigh’s WLLE and Foxy 107 FM. Furthering his career, he traveled to cities such as Baltimore, Kansas, Greensboro, Dallas, and Chicago, and has also been a fill-in for Donnie Simpson on WPGC in Washington. He now finds himself back home hosting Charlotte’s WGIV early morning show. Proud that for 64 years WGIV has been entertaining and informing the people in Charlotte of all ages, he calls it “the pioneer” for other stations such as Power 98 and 101.9 FM. The station’s call letters were bought by Dr. Frank Neely 3 years ago, and what was primarily a Charlotte AM station now has an FM slot at 103.3 FM. Dr. Neely had a vision that WGIV would be a community station helping Charlotte’s small busnesses to grow by getting information to the public. WGIV is a “throw-back” to the way that radio used to be. “Corporate radio is more music and less advertising,” says BJ, “and that’s what makes WGIV so unique, it incorporates the community into it’s broadcasting and enables businesses to grow in this economy.” WGIV prides itself in being available to promote local small businesses. “We are a small business partnership, keeping our rates low so that businesses in this economy can succeed.” From 11AM – 2PM, listeners can tune-in to the Knowledge of Power Hour, a block of airtime that discusses important facts in the Charlotte area such as credit, housing, and events around the world and how they impact the Charlotte community. 41 SCM
BJ is proud of his role at WGIV, and considers it more than just a profession. “My goal is to empower the community and create a positive vibe. I uplift, like a cheerleader for small businesses and the little man.” Broadcasting his show from local restaurants and businesses allows small business owners to promote and talk about what’s happening in Charlotte. “I like to see people successful.” WGIV encompasses a broad spectrum, leaving anyone who loves music and the community delighted with its format. In the mornings, you can reminisce with classic hip-hop and R&B, new music, and gospel - with reggae, talk shows, and local celebrity artists on the weekends. Charities close to the heart of WGIV include Big Brothers and Big Sisters, a charity for mentoring youth that has just launched a 6-month campaign with WGIV. CMS (Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools), and Brothers Helping Brothers, a program designed to mentor young men and those that have been incarcerated by helping them to reenter society. “WGIV is the bedrock of the church community, giving the last 13 years to gospel music.” What does the future hold for WGIV? Also owning GA and SC properties, Dr. Neely plans to duplicate WGIV’s format in those areas. “It is a champion for the voicelessfor those that can’t get out into their neighborhoods to speak,” says BJ. Currently, WGIV is working to increase the coverage into the Northern region of Mecklenburg County, by using a grass roots campaign, telling friends and neighbors to tune in and help it grow. BJ adds, “We will be here to help should the economy continue to go down.” Where does BJ Murphy see his future? Right here! BJ plans to continue to help Dr. Frank Neely put WGIV on the map and into the community, involving himself with internet projects like soul ofcharlotte.com and WGIV.net. “We have a lot to do, and Charlotte is the test market. I’m happy to be involved in God’s Radio Station!” You can catch BJ’s morning show every weekday from 6-9 AM at 103.3 discussing local news, weather and traffic, sports, with well known personalities. Including information surrounding the Democratic National Convention that will be coming to Charlotte in September 2012. For a program listing of WGIV, go to www.wgiv.net.
Fly Ty “You’ll never be happy unless you’re satisfying your passion.”
92.7 FM’s Fly Ty proved to Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine that multi-tasking was one of his many talents. Granting time for this interview while broadcasting on the air, he gives a true glimpse into what brings his character to life and what gives him the passion to pursue his dreams. Born in Charlotte in what he refers to as the year “19SEXY”, 38 yearold Derrick Jacobs was a barber by trade. He would call into the radio show often making jokes with the host. This was the start of something that would be his future. He began calling in to the radio and taking on the persona of Tyrone; a very happy, and “gay” character, and while many characters were included in his repertoire; this was the one that took on a larger-than-life persona. Ty did not want to be stereotyped or one dimensional, so he chose not to use his given name in his career and began to contemplate on an alias. He was dubbed Fly Ty by one of his fellow co-workers from The Breakfast Club – Tone-X. Listeners embraced the name, and fifteen years later he’s still on the Fly. Radio wasn’t always his career, but he knew it would be and it has been, for the most part of his life. Getting to know local radio personalities from his barber chair, a passion and dream began to stir that he would soon make a reality. BJ Murphy, Charlotte’s Radio host, invited Ty to “hang out” with him at the radio station. They immediately loved his humor, and after that, it was history in the making. Following a Boyz 2 Men concert, Ty met his prospective boss and with certainty and enthusiasm. He commented “I look forward to working with you one day...he must have thought I was crazy, but later it became a reality. I had to remind him of that moment at the concert...it was a true step of faith.” There is no hesitation when he’s asked to name the three professional people most influential in his career. Donald Lawrence- a gospel artist who motivated him and invited him to come into the studio to record his first demo, Nate Quick-a radio personality that helped to mold him, and BJ Murphy -who gave
him the opportunity to flex his wings and went to bat for him. Ty sees himself as both a radio personality as well as a comedian. “They both go hand in hand. I’m a people person, and it all comes natural. I have a love and passion for both. I enjoy making people laugh.” Ty adds, “Life is a faith walk. Those things you speak can come into existence. One day it’s coming... you’ll see me on the screen”. In the meantime, Ty finds himself constantly networking and branding his name into the public by utilizing popular internet options such as Twitter and You Tube. “People can train, and teach you anything. I’m a big supporter in learning your craft, but in the corporate world – there is nothing like networking. It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Ty prides himself on being versatile. “I can go from performing in the church to the strip clubs”, and finds himself equally as comfortable inside each setting. He smiles and adds with a serious note, “I’m a freak and I love the Lord.” Everyone has different sides, but some choose not to expose them. I give all of myself.” Fame, no matter how widespread, comes with a price and Ty found himself paying the price when his 15 year marriage ended. “Being on the road and trying to maintain a long distance relationship just did not work. She was, and always will be the love of my life, but if a person isn’t happy you can’t force them to be with you. Sometimes people just simply grow apart.” Ty is now raising his four boys (Tavario 18, Christian 10, Cameron 8, and Jordan 5); Ty is currently arranging his act for what will eventually encompass an hour long set entitled Fly Ty Experience, hoping one day to take it on tour with other comedians. (Continued on page 43) 42
One on one
continued from page 42
Ty gives sound advice to anyone wanting to branch out just as he did. He sums it in three words... “Just do it!” You’ll never be happy unless you’re satisfying your passion. Ask yourself this simple question: Are you living the life you’re suppose to live, or do you simply just exist? There’s a major difference...I feel as though I’ve never worked a day in my life because I love what I do; comedy, radio, and being a barber. He also adds with conviction, “Failing builds character. Even though you fail, try again until you fail better the next time.” Very devoted to local charities, Fly Ty divides his time between causes such as; Fly Kids-a charity providing school supplies and clothing for under privileged children. Faith, Hope, and Charity- who’s hospitality handed out 250 Thanksgiving turkeys, over 2,000 gift cards at Christmas, stages a haunted house for Halloween, and The Harvest Center- where he works once each week to feed the homeless and cut the hair of those less fortunate.
Whether you call him Derrick or Fly Ty, this person is at the top of his game, never forgetting the city he calls home, and those that fall victims of this failed economy. He shares the love of family with his mom who was a single mother raising three sons and a daughter. He has a brother that also took on the career of a barber and a brother that is a Pastor of Next Level Ministries. “They call him the Ponytail Pastor. You think I am funny you should hear him” he says. Fly Ty tells it like it is, “I’m gonna ride my life until the wheels fall off.” What better piece of advice could you ask for? To visit the website and find a list of scheduled times and events, visit my927.com or follow me www.facebook.com/flytyonair or www.twitter.com/flytyonair
Visit my online portfolio about graphic design & illustration services @ http://www.krop.com/waynerose/ 43 SCM
gospel tribute Rev Shirley Caesar was unavailable for an interview. When you think of gospel music you must give tribute to The First Lady of Gospel. She is an inspiration to the world. After hearing the voice of God during a college exam, Shirley Caesar (born 1938) believed it was her duty to spread the Gospel. This “calling” has developed into 150 concerts per year, volunteer work for the poor, numerous Grammy awards, and over 30 record albums.With 150 concerts a year, 25 hours a week helping the poor in her Outreach Ministries, several Grammies, and 30 record albums to her credit, Shirley Caesar may seem to be a whole army of gospel singers instead of just one diminutive (5’1, 3/4”) cherubic-looking woman. The “Queen of Gospel” packs a lot of wallop in her small frame. Backed by a sixty-person choir, rocking like a tempest, she is a bundle of fireworks on the Fourth of July. The gospel style of song and sermonette, singing that involves both the spoken word and dramatic acting, was developed primarily by Shirley Caesar. She journeys all over the world, sometimes traveling all night to return to her pulpit in Durham, North Carolina, the town where she was born. “It is not easy,” said Shirley in her 1995 video He Will Come (Word Records), “In fact, sometimes it is downright mind-boggling. But, somehow, even though I’m wearing all of these hats, the Lord helps me to just barrel through it.” Shirley has barreled through fifty years of touring and preaching, starting at age ten, and she continues to bring the house down every time she performs. (cont. on page 45)
gospel truth continued from page 44
The tenth of 12 children, Shirley Caesar was born October 13, 1938. Her father James was a tobacco worker who was wellknown in the Carolinas as the lead singer in a gospel quartet, the Just Came Four. Shirley began singing with the group at age ten. When she was twelve, her father died, and she began touring with an evangelist named LeRoy Johnson, who also had a television show in Portsmouth, Virginia. In 1951, at thirteen, she recorded her first song “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”
While still in high school, she toured throughout the Carolinas. This was a time when Jim Crow laws were still in effect in North Carolina. Shirley remembers restaurants putting up the CLOSED sign when she would arrive. “I went to school in the days when all the white kids got things better,” she told People, “I remember once when a lady gave cookies to all the kids in the state. The white kids got the fresh ones; we got the stale ones.” Despite these obstacles, her beloved mother Hannah taught her to respect herself and to persevere. Her determination took her to North Carolina Central College where she studied business education. She has said that she got the call to God’s work in the middle of a typing test. According to Kim Hubbard of People, she heard someone call out her name. Shirley turned to the young woman next to her
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Behold, I have called you from your mother’s womb and I have annointed your lips to preach the gospel. and asked if she had spoken. When Shirley went home, she lay on the bed, and heard the same voice: “Behold, I have called you from your mother’s womb and I have anointed your lips to preach the gospel.” Shirley believed that this was a message that foretold special work for her in spreading the Gospel. Around the same time, Shirley heard Chicago’s female gospel group, the Caravans, and she saw an opportunity to answer the call. She sought an audition with the group, was immediately hired, and left school for a life of singing and ministry. The Caravans had several members who became famous in the history of gospel music: Albertina Walker, Inez Andrews, and Sarah McKissick. Each woman had a different style and Shirley’s contribution was an energetic and dramatic approach where she would act out the songs and walk among the congregation, engaging the members directly. On the song “I Won’t Be Back,” she would run through the hall searching for an exit, then leave for a brief period. Her forte was the sermon in the middle of songs that addressed the subject of the song and expounded on its theme. She exhorted the listeners to reach out to God and to take the example of Jesus. On the subject of motherhood, she was particularly effective. Her song “Don’t Drive Your Mama Away” tells of a son who is shamed for putting his mother in the rest home. Along the way, Shirley found a male counterpart in the singer James Cleveland and they made several records together. They became known as the “King and Queen of Gospel.” Shirley formed her own group in 1966 called the Caesar Singers, but she would reunite with the Caravans and the Reverend Cleveland occasionally throughout the years. In 1971, she won her first Grammy, for the popular song “Put Your Hand in the Hand of the Man from Galilee.” On the night of the awards, she had returned very late from an engagement in Homer, Louisiana. People began banging on her door, and when she eventuallyanswered, her sister Ann, one of her backup singers, shouted “You won!” It was the first Grammy for a black female gospel singer since Mahalia Jackson. Shirley went on to win the award in 1980, 1984, 1985, 1992 and 1994 - for an astonishing total of seven Grammys.
Among her numerous honors are eight Dove awards, the Gospel Music Association’s highest tribute. She was inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame in 1982. She was the first female gospel artist to perform at Harvard University. In recent years, Shirley Caesar moved into other media, making several videos: Live in Memphis, I Remember Mama, and He Will Come. Broadway found that the gospel singer could conquer a big city when Shirley packed them in for the musical Mama I Want to Sing (1994). Her second Broadway musical in 1995 was titled Sing: Mama 2 and her third in 1996 was titled Born to Sing! Mama 3. Perhaps her proudest achievement was the creation of a ministry in Durham to provide emergency funds, food and shelter for the needy, the Shirley Caesar Outreach Ministries. When Shirley ran for public office and was elected to the Durham City Council in 1987, she concentrated her efforts on housing and care for the poor and elderly. Recently, Caesar went into the studio to help recording artist Bishop T.D. Jakes with his album, “Woman, Thou Art Loosed.” The album, recorded live at Jakes’ national conference in New Orleans, was released in the summer of 1997. Her biggest fan, the Rev. Harold I. Williams, whom Shirley has called “my pastor, my best friend, my husband,” assessed his wife’s character in the 1995 video He Will Come: “After twelve years, I’m going to say the same thing I said after the first year I was married to Shirley: exciting! You never know what is coming next. I mean it is exciting. It is from one thing to another. Besides being the minister of her church in North Carolina and performing concerts nationwide, Caesar has performed on Broadway. Her Broadway performances include roles in Born to Sing: Mama 3, Mama I Want to Sing, and Sing: Mama 2. She made a guest appearance at the 25th anniversary of Walt Disney World with fellow artists Peabo Bryson, CeCe Winans, Regis Philbin, and Kathie Lee Gifford. Her activities include performing for President Clinton and Hillary Rodham Clinton at a campaign function. Despite hebusy schedule, Caesar constantly finds time to get her messages of encouragement and peace to people. She’s an exciting person. She’s a joy to be around.” Most who have seen her perform would agree.
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food & wine
Gas prices rise, summer ‘staycations’ and home entertaining
With gas prices predicted to soar ever higher this summer, instead of planning large trips and eating out, many Americans are turning to ‘staycations’ and entertaining at home to save money. Fortunately, with the growing popularity and convenience of video streaming services coupled with a little creativity and an inspired food and wine pairing, it’s easier than ever to create a beautiful evening at home and make lasting memories with family and friends. “A beautiful evening can be as simple as watching a favorite movie, while enjoying an excellent meal and delicious wine at home,” says Emmy awardwinning chef and cookbook author Giada De Laurentiis. For cinematic and entertaining inspiration, Giada offers the following movie night entertaining ideas:
• For romance movies
Set the stage with traditional decorations like red roses and candles and pay homage to Romeo and Juliet by incorporating Italian-themed ingredients like prosciutto into your dishes. When preparing heartier meals, add depth to your sauces with Merlot.
• For romantic comedies with friends
Encourage socializing with movie-themed games to accompany your dinner conversation and consider a crisp, light-bodied red like Pinot Noir.
• For action-adventure
Spice it up with your own cast of bold, colorful flavors. Spicy notes from a Chianti will complement your entrees and consider using stemless glassware to minimize spilling.
• For dramatic movies
Lighten the mood with pass-around desserts, paired with a light-bodied and refreshing glass of Pinot Grigio.
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Giada has also partnered with Bella Sera® wines to launch the “Beautiful Evenings with Bella Sera” recipe contest. Through June 30, 2011, home cooks are invited to enter the “Beautiful Evenings with Bella Sera” recipe contest by submitting an original recipe, along with a creative movie recommendation and Bella Sera wine pairing to www.bellaserawine.com. Prize package details are also available on the website. Movie nights aren’t complete without festive fare. If romance is in the plans, here’s Giada’s take on risotto paired with a delicious Bella Sera Pinot Noir (cont. page 49).
Welcome to Sophisticated Charlotte Magazine’s Food & Wine Column Our goal is to maximize the food and wine experience of our readers by connecting our readers to the culture of food and wine in a basic and approachable fashion. So, what can you expect from SCM’s Food and Wine column? Look forward to our monthly feature. We will also bring you a Wine of the Month, Recipe of the Month, as well as, Food and Wine Pairing of the Month and much, much more! Enjoying Wine is Understanding Wine. How is wine made? Where does it get it’s flavor? What is the difference between white
The Grape
The DNA of the grape determines the characteristics of the wine. There are over 10, 000 varieties of grapes. Most of the worlds wine consumption comes in a handful of grape varieties. The most common wines are Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Pinotage, Sangiovese, Shiraz or Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.
Terroir
It has been said the single most important decision a winemaker makes is where to plant. Wine has to have a certain temperature, rainfall, wind, type of soil, and sunlight. This is called the “terroir.” To put terroir into perspective, it is as important to the wine as the mother’s womb is to the child. Among many other things, the terroir is where the wine gets some of its flavor.
Harvest
Once the grapes are ready for harvest they are picked by hand or by machine. Obviously machine will be faster. Farmers can be much more selective by picking only the best grapes. The longer the grapes stay on the vine the less juice they have and the more concentrated the sugars become. This is known as late harvest wines. In the case of Canadian Ice Wine, the grapes are left on the vine to freeze. Each grape is sweeter, but has less juice. While you get a premium dessert wine, it takes many more grapes to make a bottle of wine.
wine and red wine? Why is red wine so dry and dessert wine rather sweet? And why does some wine cost $10.00 a bottle and others literally thousands of dollars a bottle? A fundamental understanding of the process of making wine will answer these questions. Wine making is a delicate balance between art and science. Like any artist, the wine maker starts with a vision. Within the laws of science, the wine maker brings that vision to reality.
Consequently, Ice-Wine is much more expensive than dry wines.
Pressing
After the grapes are picked, they are ready to be crushed or turned to juice. The majority of grapes are placed in a vat and crushed. Here is the difference between red wine and white wine. When making white wine, the skins and the juice are separated immediately. Red wine gets its color and dryness (tannins) from being in contact with the skin and the stalks.
Fermentation
Yeast is naturally accruing in the environment. In order to control the fermentation process, winemakers add yeast to the juice. Under temperature-controlled conditions, the yeast eats the sugars in the juice giving off alcohol and carbon dioxide. Fermentation continues until the yeast has eaten all the sugars in the wine, thus producing what is called a dry wine. When fermentation is stopped before the yeast eats all the sugars, the results is a dessert wine.
Aging
White wine is now placed in steel barrels and red wine is usually placed in wood barrels, either French Oak or American Oak. The oak imparts its flavor to the wine giving the wine an oak-vanilla-cinnamon flavor. As the wine sits in the barrels, sediment
that exists settles to the bottom of the barrel. At this point, the wine is transferred to another barrel leaving the sediment behind. Before bottling, the wine is further filtered and clarified. The aging process varies in length of time depending on the vision of the winemaker. Some wines are aged for 10 or more years. These wines could cost thousands of dollars. Some wines are not aged at all and they are less expensive.
Bottling
Bottling is the final step. Under sanitized conditions, the wine is bottled. Depending on the vision of the winemaker, it may continue aging in the bottle.
Conclusion
Now we know Cabernet is red and dry on the palate because the juice was left in contact with the skin and the stalks. When I first started drinking wine I thought the wine maker flavored the wine. I now know it starts with the DNA of the grape, the terroir, and how the wine is aged. Stopping the fermentation process before the yeast eats up all the sugars in the juice makes dessert wines. Allowing the yeast to eat all the sugars in te wine will produce a wine much higher in alcohol. So there you have it. When art meets science, wonderful things can happen. 48
food & wine Elite Dining Divas of Charlotte Restaurant Review for Chimas Brazilian Steakhouse Five Star Rating
Continued from page 47
Red Wine Risotto with Peas “Bella Sera Pinot Noir is well balanced with acidity and sweetness. It’s velvety with dark plum aromas and cherry flavors and pairs well with rustic foods,” comments Giada. Yield: four servings Ingredients:
We, at Elite Dining Divas, had our first dining experience at Chimas Brazilian Steakhouse on April 8, 2012. It was a FABULOUS CHOICE!!! We were instantly greeted by friendly, welcoming staff. From the complimentary valet parking, décor and ambience, to the knowledgeable wait staff, we knew we were in for an amazing and unique experience. Once our party arrived, we were seated promptly and our waitress was ready to serve us. She explained to us how the evening would go and handed us an extensive, but overpriced wine menu. We made our way over to the salad bar that was filled with a fabulous variety of soups, salads, cheeses, sauces and meats that would surely please everyone’s taste buds. They consistently came around with different choices and cuts of meat from sausage to bacon wrapped filet migon to chicken and lamb chops. It was definitely a meat lover’s sanctuary! For the non-meat eaters, grilled salmon and sword fish with wonderful sauces were available. When you need a break you just simply flip a disc that says “No Thank You”, and when you are ready to indulge again flip it back to “Yes Please”. We were given a complimentary dessert. Our choices were tiramisu and cheese cake. The portions were delicious and huge! Chimas is a bit pricey but well worth the treat for any occasion. Elite Dining Divas highly recommend Chimas Brazilian Steakhouse in Charlotte. Notables: Waiting Area, Bar, Restrooms and overall Cleanliness... Five Stars!!! 49 SCM
3 1/2 cups canned low-salt chicken broth 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup finely chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup arborio rice, or medium-grain white rice 1/2 cup Bella Sera Pinot Noir 1/3 cup frozen peas, defrosted, optional 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus additional for garnish Salt and freshly ground black pepper Directions: Bring the broth to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover the broth and keep it warm over very low heat. Melt the butter in a heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and saute until translucent, about eight minutes. Stir in the garlic and saute for 30 seconds. Stir in the rice and cook for about two minutes until the rice is toasted. Add the wine and stir until it is absorbed, about one minute. Add 3/4 cup of hot broth; simmer over medium-low heat until the liquid is absorbed, stirring often, about six minutes. Repeat, adding 3/4 cup of hot broth two more times, stirring often, about 12 minutes longer. At this point, the risotto can be made four hours ahead. Refrigerate the risotto (the rice will still be firm) and remaining broth, uncovered, until cool, then cover and keep them refrigerated until ready to proceed. Bring the remaining broth to a simmer, then cover and keep it warm over very low heat. Stir 3/4 cup of hot broth into the partially cooked risotto over medium heat until the broth is absorbed and the risotto is hot, about 3 minutes. Add the remaining broth and simmer until the rice is just tender and the mixture is creamy, about five minutes longer. Stir in the peas and parsley. Add the 1/2 cup of Parmesan. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Spoon the risotto into bowls. Sprinkle additional cheese over and serve. Show: Everyday Italian, Romantic Dinner Episode. Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis BELLA SERA Italian Table Wine, ©2011 Villa di Bella Sera, Healdsburg, CA. All rights reserved.
off the shelf An’Janea Coutee
Author of “I Dialed Heaven and Jesus Answered” A candid account of one soul’s spiritual journey for happiness and fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
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God gave me the heart to love and care for all people in all walks of life...
An’Janea Coutee, was born Nina Evette Craig to William V and Verna Dee Craig 52 years ago. I am one of twenty two siblings, twelve by my father and ten by my mother. I am the mother of five beautiful children, Charles, Che’, Dante, Jovon and Daphnie, also a grandmother of seven, Janea, Joseph, Alexandria, Adriana, Nehemiah, Zique, and Trinity. A mother/grandmother/ writer/author/music manager and CEO OF R.U.T.S. Inc. R.U.T.S. is a residential service for handicap adults living independently. “God gave me the heart to love and care for all people in all walks of life, which has taken me on so many life journeys. My journeys were good and those are the ones that keep me loving and trusting in the human race, and some of them were bad, which taught me life lessons. Reinventing myself as the writer An’Janea Coutee brings to you one of four books that I have written. My finished book called “I Dialed Heaven and Jesus Answered”, is a must read book. It is for those whom have been through something in life that made you feel like you were defeated, that made you feel like you had no where to go and nobody to turn to. September 23, 2010 I woke up out of a deep sleep praying for the Lord to help me feel better without malice or anger, help me to continue to love all whom have wronged me, and that’s when I became inspired, and the words to my book came to life. Small excerpt of the book, “I Dialed Heaven, and Jesus Answered” I Died and God Brought Me Back to Life! Today, I got up with fire in my heart, and I needed to channel my energy somewhere else, that would help someone else who is going through the same pain I am. To all the sisters and brothers out there who gave their heart and soul to a man/women, remember that if you give just a little to the Lord, he will see you through every hard time that you’ll ever have. See, a man will steal all he can from you while trying to make his shortcomings all your fault. It’s a sad reality to see him still trying to pay us back for that Eve incident
in the Garden of Eden, when she showed Adam that he was weak. Now his claim to fame is to be a heart-breaker, but what he don’t know is the heart is a mighty organ and it can withstand a whole lot. If it is broken, it will mend. It can take all kind of life’s abuse and still keep ticking. The only thing it can’t take is bad living, which comes from not taking care of yourself. I found that to be true after moving to a place where the whether was my enemy. Two marriages and four kids, I found myself in a Seattle hospital room. At 31 years old my life started to change, living in Seattle Washington at the time and loving it, my lungs started to collapse from the rain and years of smoking cigarettes. Not being able to breathe and my children too young to take control of the situation, I realized that I needed someone to take care of me. Not realizing that I was setting myself up for a lifetime of pain and heartaches, I didn’t realize until I was 51 years old that the someone I needed was The Almighty Man Upstairs as he said “Man will leave you but I will never leave nor forsake you”. You know they say “Where God leads you, he will protect you!” Always thinking I needed a man to take care of me, well those were the wrong thoughts in my head, because I have been in all kinds of relationships with different men and none of them really gave me what I needed, all the false goods and the false pretenses that I have endured in the last 20 years have brought me to this point. I was with a man who I thought defeated me until I laid down and prayed “Lord let me, let it go. I don’t want to exchange fire with the very soul that I spent $200 to keep alive. Make this pain go away Lord, so I can move on”. Reverend Kevin William “My past is not so scary that I can’t go forward, because I can’t go backward and standing still is not an option”.
If you give just a little to the Lord, he will see you through every hard time that you’ll ever have... 52
off the shelf DeVondia Roseborough DeVondia Regina Roseborough, aka
“The Traveling Advocate” is a 39-year-old native of Charlotte, North Carolina. She is a single mother of two daughters. She is determined and motivated publicly expressing the effect and affects of HIV/AIDS globally. Her message is heartwarming, not just based on facts but from a personal context. On December 9, 2003, with a T-cell count of nineteen, she learned that she had AIDS. During her hospitalization of twenty-three days, she healed spiritually and given a directive from God. The directive was to convey that God’s love is for all inclusive of those with HIV and AIDS. She has furthered her passion in her selfpublished debut entitled, “Put it on Paper.” The nonfiction memoir describes her life before HIV and after AIDS. Her memoir is a personal journey of her self-esteem challenges and the price of yearning to love. Her memoir dissects the pros and cons of her personal motto, ‘A PERSON WILL TAKE YOU AS FAR AS YOU ALLOW THEM TO.” In addition to her 2008 self-published memoirs, DeVondia is slated to release her sophomore project Baptized N’ Warm Milk: the Collection based on Temptations of the Flesh; My Last First Kiss, the first week in May. My Last First Kiss is the first from the series granting access into a world many are familiar with, “TEMPTATION”. DeVondia uses her past experiences accompanied with a twist on why we shouldn’t grow weary in our flesh. DeVondia is the founder/president of The Rasberrirose Foundation, a 501c (3) nonprofit organization whose focus is to minister to teenage girls aged 10-18. The Rasberrirose Foundation birthed from attending Central Piedmont Community College and the University of Phoenix, serving over eight years as a Director and Team leader for the YWCA of the Central Carolinas, a member of Toastmasters. She trained under the United Way of the Central Carolinas Speakers Bureau and Metrolina AIDS Project Speakers Bureau being a member of New Cove53 SCM
DeVondia Roseborough
Founder/President Rasberrirose Foundation Inc www.rasberrirose.com 704.906.5544 Rasberrirose@aol.com
nant Bibleway Church, and volunteering in various sections of Charlotte. She encourages the vision by continued trainings in HIV/AIDS by successfully completing HIV/AIDS Research training in New Jersey, PETS, ACRIA Training; and LEAP training. Because of her passion for youth, the Foundation’s motto is, “To positively impact the mind, body and soul of young ladies 10-18, with a focus on HIV/AIDS prevention.” She has had the honor of meeting Fantasia Barrino, Stedman Graham, Michael Baisden, Star Jones, Brentson Buckner, J.L. King and expressed to Magic Johnson that she is “Female Magic.” In addition to meeting prominent figures featured in the Charlotte Observer, Creative Loafing,
A person will take you as far as you allow them to. Charlotte Post, Voices and The Showcase magazines, Charlotte Housing Authority’s Spokesperson for “Moving Forward” Campaign, The Story W/ Dick Gordon and various newscasts. In April of 2005, awarded, Volunteer of the Year from the Metrolina AIDS Project, she served as a member of the Ryan White Grant Evaluators, and on the Community Advisory Board and Conducts College tours with No Limit Larry & the Morning Maddhouse of WPEG Power 98. DeVondia received December 2008; nomination from the Tom Joyner’s Morning Show Hardest Working HIV/AIDS Traveling Advocate, 2008 and 2009, Pine-Sol’s Women Making a Difference certificate. She received the 2009 Urban Inspirational Award for Outstanding Leadership & Community Service and an interview for CHA’s Today was submitted and received a Telly Award. DeVondia was nominated for The 2009 Steve Harvey Hoodie Awards for “Best Community Leader.” She came in 6th place for this national contest. DeVondia was a repeat nominee and was a finalist for the 2010 Steve Harvey 8th Annual Hoodie Awards in the Best Community Leader Category. DeVondia received an added testimony, that the virus is undetectable in her body! She conveys daily that AIDS is not an obstacle because it has brought her closer to The Rock-GOD.
Temptations of the Flesh “In His presence,” those words were amplified through the hollow spaces in my mind. All that had occupied my thoughts was quickly removed by His presence and those words: “Use your experiences to help others.” Excited about this revelation from God, I said to Him, “Lord, I do not doubt You.” I giggled like Dora the Explorer with a fresh idea on her mind. “Lord, I need You to make it clear what it is You want me to do.” Just so I was sure it was God, I asked Him again to repeat Himself. I turned off the TV so I wouldn’t be confused by anything or anyone. I felt a jerk in my neck as if someone had thumped me in the back of the head. I heard it loud and clear. “Baptized N’ Warm Milk, the Collection,” He said.
As you are about to read, while going through my “go through,” I got down, depressed, cried like a baby and shopped like crazy to ease the pain. These actions were a comforting coping mechanism I was accustomed to: I didn’t want to think about the craziness that plagued my world. I knew that once the crying stopped, the receipts from the shopping sprees would bring back the initial reason for the tears! But, after the tears, the depression would subside and the matters of the flesh would still need to be handled. So I started asking myself questions: How long would I dwell with these tears, in this depression? What was I going to do about it?
“My Last First Kiss” will be the first of a series of books to encourage women, with or without HIV--those who face the same temptations of the flesh you have.” I cried like a baby while thanking Him in advance as I sought forgiveness for doubting His word. I had heard His voice, which really was a voiceless directive, to make a difference in the lives of others through my personal testimony. I should not be ashamed of what I have gone through, all the stress, as well as the mercy and grace that has gotten me to the other side. In others words, I was to acknowledge where my help came from and who got me through the messes that, for the majority of the time, I had gotten myself into. God had finally given me another assignment and I was eager to get started.
Music is and has always been a form of therapy for me. With sounds of The Love Zone on V-101.9 FM and DJ Preston “Mello” Miles playing “On the Ocean”, my favorite song by K-Jon, I began to put my story on paper. With scented candles and a relaxed atmosphere to stimulate my creative juices... with soft lighting and good music to set the tone, my finger tips began to click on the Toshiba draining the pain that screamed in bold letters: HELP! Once again, I hoped to encourage women everywhere to trust God first, set higher standards and expect a greater outcome-all the while patiently waiting their turn...
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gospel truth Ascend
By Vanessa Burke
In this current stage of life we are in — full of turmoil, earthquakes, tsunamis, political upheaval, national economic downfalls, etc. — many of us find ourselves in such a state that we actually feel “dead.” Some of us have experienced joblessness, homelessness, being without transportation, even lack of support from loved ones. In these situations, deep depression can set in, and for all intents and purposes, we are as the “living dead.” But hallelujah! We have an all powerful God in the resurrection business! He can change our situation faster than we can think about praying for a change. What are we to do while we wait for a resurrection? In His timing, when our loving God comes along and resurrects us from our miry clay, we can breathe easier, but then what?
If you are still in need of being resurrected, recall what Jesus said when He appeared to the first person, Mary Magdalene, after His resurrection. She certainly had been resurrected from a life full of sin and consequently became a devout follower of Christ. I believe it’s very significant that he chose her to appear to first. She had been looked down upon in her society because of her past sins, and she was a woman, already seen as a non-equal by most men of her day. Jesus’ messages to you may come from someone you least expect, so keep your spiritual antennae alert. In John 20:15, He asked Mary, “Why are you weeping?” and “Whom are you seeking?” The message here is that while we are weeping— during out darkest hours, in the midst of our wilderness, whatever it may be—we are also to seek God. If you are in the process of being resurrected, perhaps you need a boost to get back on the right track. In John 21, Jesus also appeared to the disciples after His resurrection while they were out on the boat fishing. This is where the very familiar story of Peter walking on the water occurred, but take a deeper look at what Jesus said to them in verse 6: “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” Apparently, they had been fishing on the left side of the boat and caught nothing. Jesus was telling them to do things a different way. Many times, we get into routines in our lives and don’t consider alternative ways to accomplish things. Today’s economy and societal shifts demand considering different ways to accomplish your goals.
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How many thousands of people are focused on getting the same job you are applying for via the Internet, the same way? Stand out from the crowd and do it differently. Here’s a thought: write a letter and send it by express mail. The last words Jesus commanded to us after His resurrection was that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem (Luke 24:47). Who is the last person you told about Jesus? For those who have entered into life after resurrection, know that Jesus got you up so you could continue to ascend, as He did, to the Father. The word “ascend” means to move upward or to rise from a lower level. How is your relationship with the Father? Have you done anything different lately to go higher spiritually? Do you know any more Bible verses than you did last year? Are you able to boldly share your testimony with others who are in the same situation you were in, and in so doing, be used of God in their resurrection? After the resurrection but before Jesus ascended, He also imparted to us the awesome gift of the Holy Spirit (John 20:22). With this amazing power, the same power that God used to resurrect our beloved Jesus, the Christ, you can do what seems impossible. Embrace this truth, and ascend-closer and closer--to the Father. Visit her at http://vanessaburke.blogspot.com.