Spectacular Magazine (Feb-March 2013)

SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE www.spectacularmag.com

SPECIAL THANKS TO 11TH ANNUAL DURHAM MLK/BLACK HISTORY MONTH PARADE

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PHYLLIS COLEY FEATURES EDITOR APRIL MIAL ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR GARY N. JONES COLUMNISTS LAWRENCE DAVIS III DR. SHARON ELLIOTT-BYNUM . REP. LARRY HALL DEL MATTIOLI CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BRITTANY CHALMERS . DAWN DeANGELO PHOTOGRAPHERS MEL BROWN - SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER GABRIEL AIKENS . GREGORY COATS . TERRENCE ROUSE LAYOUT/DESIGN PHYLLIS COLEY LAWRENCE DAVIS III DISTRIBUTION LAWRENCE DAVIS III . LELIA ROYSTER Spectacular Magazine enlightens, empowers and entertains African Americans with features, columns, commentaries and calendars. Spectacular Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed free in Durham, Wake, Orange, Granville, and Vance counties.

Deadline for all submissions is the 19th of each month.

Contact us at: info@spectacularmag.com or by mail at: Post Office Box 361 Durham, NC 27702 919-680-0465

PRESIDENT - CEO

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Phyllis D. Coley

Gary N. Jones, MBA

DIRECTOR OF SALES Diane Phillips Sales Office Phone Number: 919-225-1515 4

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In February/March 2013 Issue Briefly Did U Know?

Did U Know? Black History Month Edition Ear to the Streets Entertainment Features ACC CIAA Congressman G.K. Butterfield DMX Dr. Debra Saunders-White Durham MLK/BHM Parade Photos Jabberwock MEAC Nas Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation The Dramatics The Whispers From The Publisher’s Desk Health Lifestyle Newsbriefs NC Legislative Update NCCU Chancellor-elect Sports This Is Your Life

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COVER PHOTO: Nas’ Life is Good cd www.spectacularmag.com

From The Publisher’s Desk...

SUPREME COURT MUST UPHOLD VOTING RIGHTS ACT

In 2013, some politicians are at it again.

Restrictive voter photo-ID laws have passed legislatures in a number of states, including Virginia, whose new law awaits the governor's signature and will then require federal preclearance before going into effect.

In North Carolina, the argument is that discrimination of the type the law was meant to prevent doesn't exist; that black citizens' rights are secure. All the justices acknowledge that progress has been made on that front, but they differ as to whether that part of the Voting Rights Act should be lifted.

Supreme Court must defend democracy and uphold Voting Rights Act In 2006 when the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 was reauthorized, I told my 19-year old son to not take this for granted because it would come up again in his lifetime. I never thought it would be just 7 years later.

For generations, the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 has been instrumental in Phyllis D. Coley making the promise of our democracy a reality for millions of citizens. This Publisher - Pres./CEO month, the Supreme Court will consider the constitutionality of Section 5 of Some argue that the push from Republicans in the the Act --- one of the most effective civil rights tools in our nation's history -N.C. General Assembly to establish a voter ID law is an example of "still there." in the case Shelby County, Alabama v. Holder. After a year where politicians Because some minority and elderly citizens lack conventional IDs such as drimanipulated voting laws for their own benefit, the Court must uphold this prover's licenses, they'd have to go through a bureaucratic process to get identifitection and safeguard every American's fundamental right to vote. cation, which would be burdensome for many. Such a rule would increase the likelihood that people in those groups wouldn't vote, a factor more likely to help Section 5 requires certain states and jurisdictions with documented histories of Republicans than Democrats. denying minority voting-rights to gain approval from the Department of Justice or a federal court before changing voting procedures. This "preclearance" It smacks of being a cold calculation from Republicans to gain every advantage process is designed to ensure the changes do not discriminate against minority they can. The fraud excuse, after all, doesn't fly. There is very little evidence of voters, either intentionally or unintentionally. Shelby County, a largely white any significant voter fraud in North Carolina. It may not be a poll tax, but a suburb of Birmingham, filed suit in 2010, claiming Section 5 is unconstitutional voter ID law is clearly designed to benefit one party over another, and courts because it hurts states' rights. have struck down some.

Opponents of the law say it is unfair for some states to have to follow these rules. But the Supreme Court rejected this argument shortly after the Act was originally enacted in 1965. In total, four separate Court decisions have upheld the Act through the decades, and in 2006, Congress voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize it.

High court justices should be rightly suspicious that a challenge to part of the Voting Rights Act comes as Republicans in North Carolina and elsewhere are working hard on voter identification requirements. In this state, Republicans have been quiet, doubtless hoping the Justices rule in favor of the Alabamians so GOP legislative leaders here can move ahead with a voter ID law.

Opponents also argue the law is no longer necessary -- that discrimination in our electoral process is a thing of the past. But the recent push to restrict voting, which came heavily in jurisdictions covered by Section 5, proves them wrong.

North Carolina made more progress in ensuring equal rights than most of its neighbors. But discrimination is deceptive, and like a dormant virus it can be subject to an unpleasant recurrence. The extension of the Voting Rights Act, a proud landmark in the civil rights movement, was overwhelmingly approved by Congress in 2006. It should stand, all parts of it, until that 25-year extension has expired.

In 2011 and 2012, 19 states passed more than two-dozen measures that would have effectively made it harder to vote, the biggest rollback in voting rights since the Jim Crow era. These measures included voter ID laws, early-voting cutbacks, and curbs on community-based voter registration drives -- all of which imposed burdens on minority voters.

Citizens rejected these laws at the polls, nearly a dozen courts overturned or weakened restrictive measures, and the Department of Justice blocked others.

In the end, far fewer voters were affected by the voting-law changes than initially predicted. Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act was instrumental in protecting these votes.

Any student of this nation's history knows that discrimination against black citizens with regard to voting has been blatant and commonplace over time, particularly in the South. Poll taxes, literacy tests and just random exclusions designed to keep African-Americans from voting out of spite or racism or in an attempt to mute their voices and beat their candidates were widespread in the former Confederacy.

Speaking of the Confederacy, it is a challenge from Shelby County, Ala., that has brought the issue to the fore. The county says that the part of the law requiring voting jurisdictions to get clearance from the federal government before any changes can be made in voting rules is outdated and unnecessary. www.spectacularmag.com

Without Section 5, voters would need to challenge restrictive laws on a case-bycase basis -- after they are already enacted. This is an inefficient method to protect minority voting-rights. It would allow discriminatory laws to remain in effect while opponents endure the slow and expensive litigation process of challenging them.

Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, however, is able to block discrimination before it occurs, acting as both a deterrent and a remedy to state and local governments whose laws end up intentionally or unintentionally denying American citizens the equal right to vote.

Not only is Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act a necessary and effective tool, it is also a symbol of our nation's struggle and commitment to safeguarding the most fundamental right of American democracy. To weaken or invalidate this Act would be a shameful departure from the values our society holds so dear - equality, fairness, and an inclusive democracy. The Voting Rights Act is a reflection and realization of these values, and it must be fully upheld.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Phyllis Coley

pcoley@spectacularmag.com

February/March 2013

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Did U Know?...BLACK HISTORY MONTH EDITION

SUCCESSES AND CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY AFRICAN-AMERICANS Compiled by

. 1963: Civil Rights activist and leader Martin Luther King, Jr. makes his now famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the many contributions and successes of African-Americans. Spectacular Magazine is sharing some important milestones and fun facts about influential black figures, inventors and barrier breakers.

Did U Know ...that without the milestones made by the musicians below, Beyonce wouldn’t have been able to rock out the Super Bowl and no one would jam to Usher? . In 1890, former slave George W. Johnson became the first AfricanAmerican to record commercially. . In 1920, Mamie Smith was the first black artist to record a blues song on Okeh Records. . Count Basie of the Count Basie Orchestra was the title of first male African-American winner of a Grammy Award in 1958.

Special Gee

Gary “Special Gee” Jones

Did U Know ...without the inventors listed below, your favorite sandwich (peanut butter and jelly), the Super Soaker and even the stop light wouldn’t be possible?

. Kiss your PB & J sandwiches goodbye, because without George Washington Carver— those sandwiches would just be jelly-filled. Born a slave, Carver went on to develop several uses for the peanut (including soap, mayonnaise and adhesive) and 400 plant products according to Scholastic! . Next time you sit in a foldable chair, think of inventor Nathaniel Alexander. He designed the chair to be used for large gatherings at places like schools and churches. . Thinking about corrective or cataracts eye surgery? You owe Dr. Patricia. E. Bath a big thanks! Bath was not only the first AfricanAmerican woman doctor to receive a patent for a medical invention, she developed an eye surgery that utilizes laser devices to make incisions more precise. . In 1992, Mae C. Jemison became the first female African- American space traveler in the United States, according to NASA. . Ever print something off your laptop, computer or smart phone? IBM computer engineer Mark E. Dean is the mastermind behind the technology that lets you do that! . Think you could invent an improved sewing machine, but also the first traffic light and WWI gas mask? Garrett Morgan was a man of many skills and the inventor behind all of those!

The list continues with more incredibly talented black inventors: Dr. Charles Drew (the doctor behind the blood bank), Wallace Amos (the baker behind Famous Amos chocolate chip cookies); Lonnie G. Johnson (the man behind the Super Soaker water gun) and Dr. Shirley Jackson (the female scientist behind fiber optics cables and caller ID).

Other notable firsts by African-Americans: . 1909: W.E.B Du Bois formed the National Advancement of Colored People Organization (NAACP) . 1947: Jackie Robinson became the first MLB player for the Brooklyn Dodgers . 1954: The Supreme Court rules on Brown versus Board of Education, deeming segregation in public school unconstitutional 6

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. Louis Armstrong was not only a talented musician (he taught himself to

play the coronet in a group home at age 7); he also helped transform the art of jazz. . The legendary voice behind “Dream a Little Dream of Me,” Ella Fitzgerald was the first female African-American winner in 1958 for best individual jazz performance. . Stevie Wonder has won an impressive 25 Grammy awards, including wins for best producer of the year and album of the year. . Maya Angelou— a trailblazer in poetry, film and education— was also San Francisco’s first African-American female cable car conductor AND first black woman to recite a poem at an inauguration. . Often called the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin has 18 Grammy awards under her belt— including best female R&B vocal performance for the classic hit, “Respect.” She was also the first black woman inducted into the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. . Female MC/rappers like Lady B paved the way for popular lady rappers like Queen Latifah and Nicki Minaj with beats like “To the Beat, Ya’ll.”

. Producer Quincy Jones holds the

most Grammy nods (79) and wins (27) for an AfricanAmerican.

We’re giving some major props to the women who have rocked powerful positions and proven girls really do run the world.

Did U Know ...these notable firsts by African-American women? . Harriet Tubman: During the Civil War, this brave woman helped 300 slaves escape through the Underground Railroad. In addition, she became the first woman in American history to lead a military expedition. . Rosa Parks: Often remembered as a powerful player in the civil rights moment and her refusal to give up her bus seat to a white woman, she also is Did U Know? BHM Edition continues on page 7

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the first African-American woman to be honored with a statue in Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. . Bessie Coleman: Busting through the barriers in the ‘boys only’ club, Bessie became the the first African-American female pilot in 1921.

. Shirley Chisholm: During the New York 1969 for a new leader, Chisholm

was elected the first African-American congresswoman. She went on to serve seven terms. . Patricia Roberts Harris: The Harvard grad and lawyer became the first black female named U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter selected her for his cabinet as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, another first! . Condoleezza Rice: The political science professor made history when she became the first African-American female U.S. Secretary of State in 2005. She also was among the first group of women admitted to the Augusta National Golf Club. . Toni Morrison: The literary voice behind works like ‘Beloved’ hit a major milestone in 1993 when she was honored as the first black woman to receive the Nobel Prize in literature. . Ursula Burns: After working for Xerox for 29 years, Ursula became the CEO in 2009. That made her the first African-American woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. . Ruth Simmons: In 2000, Ruth was named the 18th president of Brown University— making her the first black president of an Ivy League school. . Oprah Winfrey: The philanthropist and TV personality was the first African-American woman to have a syndicated talk show. In 2003, she was named the first black female billionaire by Forbes.

Next, we’re talking sports and the performing arts; Did U Know? that…

.

According to Biography.com, tap dancer Howard Sims was known as the “Sandman,” because he sprinkled sand on stage to amplify his tap dance steps. . In 1908, boxer Jack Johnson became the first black world heavyweight champion. Muhammad Ali would follow in his footsteps decades later, becoming the first boxer to win the title three times. . Jackie Robinson became the first black MLB player in 1947, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers as the first baseman. In 1962, he was also the first AfricanAmerican to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. . Tennis player Arthur Ashe was the first black

man to win Wimbledon in 1975.

Pianist and performer Nat King Cole was the first black entertainer to host his own show on national TV in 1956. . Playwright Lorraine Hansberry made history in 1959 with her drama ‘Raisin in the Sun.’ The play became the first drama written by a black woman to make it to Broadway. . “Gone with the Wind” actress Hattie McDaniel was the first African-American to win an Oscar. She took home the award for best supporting actress. . Actress Halle Berry was the first AfricanAmerican to win ‘Best Actress’ at the Oscars in 2001. She won for her role in Monster’s Ball. . At the 2002 Winter Olympics, track star turned bobsledder Vonetta Flowers became the first black athlete to win a gold medal at the winter games. . In 2003, black singers held all top 10 spots on the popular Billboard music chart for the first time in its 50 years. Beyonce’s song “Baby Boy” topped the list.

.

notable facts: .Other Allensworth is the only California community

to be founded, financed and governed by AfricanAmericans. . Jazz is an African-American musical form born out of the blues, ragtime and february/february/march 2013 2013ing bands. It originated in Louisiana during the turn of the nineteenth century. The word jazz is actually a slang term that at one point referred to a sexual act. Scandalous! . In 1938, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt challenged the segregation rules at the Southern Conference on Human Welfare in Birmingham, Alabama. Part of the reason for her protest was so she could sit next to African-American educator Mary McLeod Bethune, whom Roosevelt referred to as “her closest friend in her age group.” . In 2008, Barack Obama was elected as the 44th President of the United States. and was re-elected to a second term in 2012. He is the first African American to hold the office. His wife, Michelle LaVaughn Obama is the first African-American first lady of the country. She also was the first woman and black woman to appear on the cover of Better Homes & Gardens magazine and the premiere first lady as a presenter at the 2013 Oscars.

Until next time!

Gary ‘Special Gee’ Jones Entertainment Editor gjones@spectacularmag.com (Source: www.hlntv.com; www.wikipedia.org)

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NC LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

HOUSE DEMOCRATIC LEADER

LAWMAKERS BUSY IN RALEIGH

House opens with Unemployment Insurance, Medicaid

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE - HOUSE BILL 4

To pay off NC’s federal debt three years earlier, in year 2015 verses 2018, Republicans filed House Bill 4. The weight of the burden of House Bill 4 falls on the unemployed as the bill unfairly hurts the unemployed by drastically decreasing their benefits and only barely increasing the unemployment tax paid by employers. Notably, the decrease in citizens’ benefits is permanent, but the employer’s higher unemployment tax is temporary, lasting only three years.

FACTS: . We are discussing people that are unemployed through no fault of their own; . NC continues to face an unemployment rate of more than nine percent (9%) which is one of the highest unemployment rates in the county;

. There are three (3) unemployed workers for every one (1) job available in the

state; and . As legislators are to be responsible stewards of money and thereby make every responsible effort to pay down NC’s debt, legislators also owe it to families that are struggling to be sure to use a balanced approach in that stewardship.

EFFECTS OF HOUSE BILL 4: . Cuts the maximum benefit from $535/week to $350/week (a $185 per week decrease) and caps it regardless of cost of living or inflation. The difference in weekly benefits can be the difference in paying a mortgage or paying a child’s tuition; . Cuts the maximum number of weeks of benefits from 26 weeks to a sliding scale of 12 to 20 weeks; . Ends federal unemployment 6 weeks early for more than 80,000 families in NC, cutting $600 million from the state’s economy.

Democrats introduced several amendments for a more balanced approach yet all were either voted down or dismissed and the House tentatively approved the overhaul of the state’s unemployment system.

On his second day as Governor of North Carolina, Pat McCrory signed the comprehensive reform of the state’s unemployment insurance system into law. The new law applies to new claims for unemployment benefits filed on or after July 1, 2013. One of Republican-led House Bill 4’s stated purposes is to address North Carolina’s unemployment insurance debt — North Carolina’s unemployment insurance system currently owes more than $2.5 billion dollars to the federal government.

Dozens of groups urged a slower pace on unemployment insurance – more than two dozen groups took the unusual step of issuing a statement to urge the General Assembly to adopt a slower pace on unemployment insurance reform.

The coalition, which included AARP, AFL-CIO, the Teamsters and the NAACP among others, issued an open letter to lawmakers in Raleigh, expressing their concerns over the passage of the “controversial” legislation at “breakneck speed” and doing so without inviting advocates for jobless workers to the bargaining table.

Furthermore, the coalition urged the North Carolina Senate to honor the state’s tradition of deliberative policymaking, calling upon leaders to consider compromise in the face of actions that will affect thousands of North Carolina families both immediately and in the future.

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The unemployment law also eliminates “substantial fault” as a means of partially disqualifying claimants from receiving unemployment benefits. Current law allows for a finding of substantial fault to result in a claimant’s partial disqualification of between 4 and 13 weeks. Thus, a finding of substantial fault currently results in a reduction of 15% to 50% of unemployment benefits received. However, the unemployment law totally eliminates substantial fault as a means of partial disqualification.

The law’s elimination of “substantial fault” likely will result in an even greater emphasis on workplace “misconduct” as the principal basis by which North Carolina employers can defend claims for unemployment benefits. Best practices for North Carolina employers to defend against unemployment benefit claims include (1) documentation of employees’ acknowledgement of receipt of written workplace policies and (2) enforcement and documentation of progressive discipline.

Reforms also include elimination of the health exclusion entirely. The exclusion currently allows a claimant to avoid disqualification from benefits if the claimant can prove that he or she left work due to a disability or other health condition. The health exclusion also applies if the claimant proves that he or she left work due to a disability or health condition of the claimant’s minor child, parent, or immediate family member.

Finally, the unemployment law redefines North Carolina’s statutory definition of “suitable work,” which governs a claimant’s continued eligibility for unemployment benefits. The new mandate provides that after a claimant receives 10 weeks of unemployment benefit payments he or she must accept any “suitable work,” now defined as any employment offer paying at least 120% of a claimant’s weekly benefit amount. Any claimant who fails to accept the offer of “suitable work” faces disqualification from receipt of any further unemployment benefits.

MEDICAID - SENATE BILL 4

The Medicaid bill is designed to block the implementation of major parts of the federal health care law (popularly termed ‘ObamaCare’) in North Carolina. It would prevent more low-income residents from receiving healthcare coverage under Medicaid and stop a state-sponsored online marketplace for insurance policies. Currently, the program only covers low-income women, the disabled, the elderly and children.

An expansion of Medicaid would provide health coverage for 648,000 lowincome residents, a large portion of which do not have any health insurance.

The federal government would fully fund newly eligible residents for the first three (3) years and then pay at least ninety percent (90%).

Senate Bill 4 passed the House of Representatives on Feb. 14th by a party-line vote of 75-42. The bill will be sent to back to the Senate and then to the Governor.

Leader Hall voted against the bill designed to block the expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina. The Medicaid expansion would cover about 500,000 working families in North Carolina, providing them the insurance coverage required when the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented next year. The federal government would pick up the full cost of the expansion for the first three years and ninety percent (90%) of the cost for several years thereafter.

Expanding Medicaid would have helped working families who are still struggling in this economy. Politics should not stand in the way of expanding health care coverage to 500,000 people, creating 23,000 jobs and preventing the cost of treating the uninsured from being passed on to hard working taxpayers.

Rejecting Medicaid expansion is a short-sighted decision that will hurt North Carolina’s economy and the quality of life for many citizens.

Please contact me or my office if I can be of any assistance.

Larry D. Hall

Mail :: Post Office Box 25308, Durham, North Carolina 27702 Email :: larry.hall@ncleg.net You can listen to committee meetings and press conferences on the General Assembly’s website at www.ncleg.net.

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COVER STORY Beginning with his classic debut, Illmatic (1994), Nas stood tall for years as one of New York City’s leading rap voices, outspokenly expressing a righteous, self-empowered swagger that endeared him to critics and hip-hop purists. Whether proclaiming himself “Nasty Nas” or “Nas Escobar” or “Nastradamus” or “God’s Son,” the self-appointed King of New York battled numerous adversaries for his position atop the epicenter of East Coast rap, none more challenging than Jay-Z, who vied with Nas for the vacated throne left in the wake of the Notorious B.I.G.’s 1997 assassination.

Such headline-worthy drama informed Nas’ provocative rhymes, which he delivered with both a masterful flow and a wise perspective over beats by a range of producers: legends like DJ Premier, Large Professor, and Pete Rock; hitmakers like Trackmasters, Timbaland, and will.i.am; street favorites like Swizz Beatz, Megahertz, and the Alchemist.

Nas likewise collaborated with some of the industry’s leading video directors, including Hype Williams and Chris Robinson, presenting singles like “Hate Me Now,” “One Mic” and “I Can” with dramatic flair.

Throughout all the ups (the acclaim, popularity, and success) and downs (the expectations, adversaries, and over-reaching), Nas continually matured as an artist, evolving from a young

LEGENDARY RAPPER

NAS LIFE IS GOOD

NAS continues on next page

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street disciple to a vain all-knowing philosopher to a humbled godly teacher. Such growth made every album release an event and prolonged his increasingly storied career to epic proportions.

Born Nasir Jones, son of jazz musician Olu Dara, Nas dropped out of school in the eighth grade, trading classrooms for the streets of the rough Queensbridge projects, long fabled as the former stomping ground of Marley Marl and his Juice Crew as immortalized in “The Bridge.” Despite dropping out of school, Nas developed a high degree of literacy that would later characterize his rhymes. At the same time, though, he delved into street culture and flirted with danger, such experiences similarly characterizing his rhymes.

His synthesis of well-crafted rhetoric and street-glamorous imagery blossomed in 1991 when he connected with Main Source and laid down a fiery verse on “Live at the Barbeque” that earned him up-and-coming notice among the East Coast rap scene. Not long afterward, MC Serch of 3rd Bass approached Nas about contributing a track to the Zebrahead soundtrack. Serch was the soundtrack’s executive producer and had been impressed by “Live at the Barbeque.” Nas submitted “Halftime,” and the song so stunned Serch that he made it the soundtrack’s lead-off track.

Columbia Records meanwhile signed Nas to a major-label contract, and many of New York’s finest producers offered their support. DJ Premier, Large Professor, and Pete Rock entered the studio with the young rapper and began work on Illmatic.

When Columbia finally released the album in April 1994, it faced high expectations; Illmatic regardless proved just as astounding as it had been billed.

It sold very well, spawned multiple hits, and earned unanimous acclaim, followed soon after by classic status.

The two years leading up to Nas’ follow-up, It Was Written (1996), brought another wave of enormous anticipation. The ambitious rapper, who had begun working closely with industry heavyweight Steve Stoute, responded with a significantly different approach than he had taken with Illmatic: where that album had been a straightforward hip-hop album with few pop concessions, the largely Trackmaster-produced It Was Written made numerous concessions to the pop-crossover market, most notably on the two hit singles, “Street Dreams” and “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That).” These singles — both of which drew from well-known songs, Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and Kurtis Blow’s “If I Ruled the World,” respectively — broadened Nas’ appeal greatly and awarded him MTV-sanctioned crossover success. This same crossover success undermined some of his hip-hop credibility, however, and a minor backlash by purists resulted.

Nas addressed his critics on “Hate Me Now,” the second single from his next album, I Am (1999). The effort had originally been planned as a double-disc concept album comprised of autobiographical material, but when some of the tracks were leaked, I Am was scaled down and released as a single disc, with the DJ Premier-pro10

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duced “Nas Is Like” chosen as the lead single. Besides “Nas Is Like” and “Hate Me Now,” which both broke into the Billboard Hot 100.

“You Won’t See Me Tonight” and “K-I-S-S-I-N-G” also charted as singles.

Originally scheduled by Columbia as a follow-up album comprised of the pirated material from the I Am sessions, Nastradamus (1999) was released in time for the holiday shopping season; roughly six months after its predecessor. Comprised almost entirely of new material, recorded quickly to meet the late-November release date, the album failed to garner the abundance of critical praise that had become customary for Nas. Moreover, unlike its two predecessors, Nastradamus failed to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 album chart, peaking at number seven instead, and failed to go double platinum. Though relatively disappointing on these counts, Nastradamus still went platinum and spawned two charting singles, “Nastradamus” and “You Owe Me,” so the album wasn’t a failure, just disappointing.

In the late-’90s wake of the Notorious B.I.G.’s assassination, Nas reigned atop the New York rap scene alongside few contemporaries of equal stature. In addition to his endless stream of hits by the industry’s most successful producers — “If I Ruled the World” (produced by the Trackmasters), “Hate Me Now” (Puff Daddy), “Nas Is Like” (DJ Premier), and “You Owe Me” (Timbaland), among others — he costarred in the Hype Williams-directed film Belly (1998) alongside DMX and contributed to the soundtrack.

Furthermore, Nas led a short-lived supergroup of New York rappers known as the Firm (also comprised of rappers Foxy Brown, AZ, and Nature, with producers Dr. Dre and the Trackmasters) and assembled a broad coalition of fellow Queensbridge rappers for the QB Finest compilation (2000). Amid all of this publicity, though, criticism began to mount. For every crossover fan Nas won with his dramatic MTV-aired videos, he lost support among purists, some of whom felt he had sold out, abandoning hip-hop ideals in favor of commercial success. The relative disappointment of Nastradamus was symptomatic of this downturn.

A series of incidents in 2001 provided a key turning point for Nas’ decline. The rapper’s personal life was becoming increasingly complicated; he encountered relationship trouble with the mother of his daughter and, of greater consequence, his mother began suffering from cancer. To make matters worse, longtime rival Jay-Z pointedly dissed Nas on “Takeover,” the much-discussed lead-off song from his acclaimed Blueprint album (2001). (It didn’t help that Jay-Z had risen atop NAS continues on page 11

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Two rap legends Nas (left) and Jay-Z reconcil after longstanding feud.

Photo: Johnny Nunex

the New York rap scene, giving him ample justification to call out Nas, who had receded from the public eye while he dealt with his personal issues.)

Nas responded strikingly in December 2001 with Stillmatic, the title a reference to his classic Illmatic album, which had been released nearly a decade earlier. Stillmatic opened with the song “Ether,” a very direct response to Jay-Z, followed by the aggressive lead single “Get Ur Self A....” These two songs in particular rallied the streets while the moving video for “One Mic” received heavy support from MTV. Throughout 2002, Nas continued his comeback with a number of guest appearances, among them Brandy’s “What About Us?,” J-Lo’s “I’m Gonna Be Alright,” and Ja Rule’s “The Pledge,” as well as yet more news-making controversy, this time involving his noshow at popular radio station Hot 97’s annual Summer Jam. Amid all of the drama, Nas managed to salvage his esteemed reputation and reclaim his lofty status atop the New York scene.

Stillmatic earned immediate acclaim from fans and critics alike and sold impressively, while Columbia furthered the comeback campaign with two archival releases, one of remixes (From Illmatic to Stillmatic [2002]), the other of outtakes (The Lost Tapes [2002], which notably includes some of the pirated I Am material).

Then at the end of the year Columbia released a new studio album, God’s Son (2002), and Nas once again basked in widespread acclaim as the album sold well, spawned sizable hits (“Thugz Mansion,” “Made You Look,” “I Can”), and received rampant media support. Two years later Nas returned with Street’s Disciple (2004), a sprawling double album that delved deeply into various issues, most notably politics and his impending marriage to Kelis. The twosided “Thief ’s Theme”/”You Know My Style” single dropped in summer 2004, several months before the album’s release, and was followed that fall by the proper lead single “Bridging the Gap.” Street’s Disciple came and went, however, without the level of commercial success that had become customary, as it struggled to go platinum. More troubling, new kid on the block 50 Cent took a swipe at Nas on “Piggy Bank,” a call-out song on The Massacre (2005), further bringing the veteran rapper’s status into question.

In a surprising turn of events later that year, Nas made a surprise appearance at Jay-Z’s much-hyped I Declare War concert in October 2005. Together the two rivals performed “Dead Presidents,” Jay-Z’s 1996 debut single; the classic song, produced by Ski Beatz and featured on Reasonable Doubt (1996); it also features a prominent sample of “The World Is Yours,” a 1994 classic by Nas. The reconciliation of Jay-Z and Nas opened the door to a deal with Def Jam. The record label, overseen by Jay-Z as president at the www.spectacularmag.com

time, signed Nas and, in turn, released Hip Hop Is Dead (2006). The album didn’t sell especially well, but it did inspire a lot of commentary about the state of hip-hop and included a much-anticipated collaboration with Jay-Z, “Black Republican.” A politically charged selftitled album, at one point considered to be titled N*gger, materialized in 2008, and not without some controversy of its own.

Following his divorce from Kelis, Nas released Distant Relatives, an album-length collaboration with Damian “Junior Gong” Marley, in 2010. Two years later, his divorce would be addressed on the venomous Life Is Good, an album that featured Nas holding Kelis’ wedding dress on the cover.

Nas put his devotion for his daughter Destiny in his raw, emotional song “Daughters,” and in December 2012 he also made the day for other people’s daughters in Queens, New York with the 8th Annual Bratz Doll Drive. The drive, which is being put together by Saving Our Daughters, honors Iliss Benjamin, the daughter of SOD founder Curtis Benjamin, who lost her battle to cancer.

It was important to Nas that there be a drive in Queens, because it’s his hometown. The recent onslaught of Hurricane Sandy made putting a drive there all the more important. Before taking part in the holiday drive, Nas spoke about his involvement with Saving Our Daughters, the meaning behind his song “Daughters,” and what his own daughter has taught him.

“This time of the year is when I really get anxious to help out in any way I can,” Nas stated. “ This time of the year has been special to me since I was a kid, and I have a daughter. She saved my life in many ways. I think about girls all over the world who are in single parent homes, or are the ones who grow up in neighborhoods like the one I grew up in, and it’s an immense love I have.”

When asked how others could get involved with Saving Our Daughters, Nas explained simply that “people can call up Emagen Entertainment on the phone. They can call us up.

That’s me. Call up Emagen Entertainment and we can start building from there, with Saving Our Daughters and everything we’re involved in.”

Nas said that Nas and R&B singer Kelis were “Daughters” off of Life Is married in 2005 with Kelis wearGood really made this proj- ing a green wedding gown (top). ect resonate with him. “My That gown is reportedly the only experience with my own thing she left when the couple daughter got me to write a divorced in 2009. Nas is holding song about her. Our life has the gown in the cover of his latest cd Life is Good.

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been a roller coaster ride and being a parent going into that is no joke, it’s no game. When you have a daughter, you want to protect her from the things that I’ve seen out there, you know, the things that’s out there that ain’t good for her. It’s a crazy world we live in. It takes real parenting skills to really protect these kids, man. She made me grow up, made me grow up a lot faster. I didn’t fully grow up as fast as I needed to, but she helped me grow up a lot faster than I would have on my own. She made me more responsible in lots of ways. She made me want to stay around at a time in my life where it didn’t matter. It made me care. I stayed safe and stayed around and alive.”

(Sources: www.starpulse.com; www.mtv.com; www.wikipedia.com; www.rap.about.com; www.poemhunters.com)

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RAPPER/ACTOR

DMX

UNDISPUTED Dark Man X, considered the next coming of the slain Tupac Shakur, took over as the reigning, undisputed king of hardcore rap following the deaths of Tupac Shakur and the Notorious B.I.G. He was that rare commodity: a commercial powerhouse with artistic and street credibility to spare. His rapid ascent to stardom was actually almost a decade in the making, which gave him a chance to develop the theatrical image that made him one of rap’s most distinctive personalities during his heyday.

Born December 18, 1970 in Baltimore Maryland’s projects, Earl Simmons (DMX’s real name) grew up in the School Street housing projects of Yonkers, New York. With a father that left him at a young age, he also endured an abusive mother, which in combination helped mold Simmons into a life of crime, where he spent years in group homes and jail. This also led to other troubled behavior such as alcoholism and drug abuse, a response to his manic depressed state.

He began rapping around the age of 13, amusing crowds of children with rhymes that relied on spelled-out words, a style he called “spellbound.” A local rapper eventually asked the young Earl to beatbox for him, and Simmons agreed, adopting the stage name DMX, which stands for “Dark Man of the Unknown,” X being an algebraic expression for unknown. His stage name also pays tribute to the Oberheim DMX drum machine, an instrument he used when he made his own rap beats in the 80’s.

Eventually he decided to try his hand at serious rapping, and honed his skills during a stint at a group home. During this period, he also began doing shows and battling other rappers (once battling and defeating Jay-Z), making a name for himself in the New York area. He released his first album called “DMX: Unleashed and Unreleased” which was an instant hit on the streets of Yonkers.

Everything about DMX was unremittingly intense, from his muscular, tattooed physique to his gruff, barking delivery, which made a perfect match for his tradeActor/rapper DMX, his son Xavier mark lyrical obses(right), godson Jevon (left) and prosion with dogs. Plus, ducer/wife Tashera Simmons attend the New York Premiere of “Never Die there was substance Alone” on March 24, 2004 at the behind the style; Clearview Chelsea West Cinemas, in much of his work was tied together by a fasNew York City. cination with the split (Photo by Evan Agostini/Getty Images) www.spectacularmag.com

between the sacred and the profane. He could move from spiritual anguish one minute to a narrative about the sins of the streets the next, yet keep it all part of the same complex character; sort of like a hip-hop Johnny Cash. The results were compelling enough to make DMX the first artist ever to have his first five albums enter the charts at number one.

What turned Simmons life around was rap music. In the early days, he paid his dues rapping on street corners, playing in clubs, and distributing his tapes. All this created a buzz for the performer in the New York scene. Ruff Ryders Entertainment started managing DMX in 1997 and he was quickly signed by the Def Jam label. He appeared as a guest of sorts for the likes of LL Cool J, Lox, and Mase before releasing his first single in 1998, Get at Me Dog. With this created the artists affection for ‘the dog’. In fact, DMX has a tattoo dedicated to his late pit bull and what he calls his “best friend” which says “One Love Boomer”.

His first full album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, went on to sell 3.6 million copies. DMX also branched out into film, starring in Belly, a Hype Williams directed crime saga which featured other rappers such as T-Boz and Method Man. The cash strapped Def Jam was eager to get another album out and released the 2nd DMX project of the year with Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood. The controversial cover had DMX in a bathtub full of blood. This and the success of Jay-Z helped catapult Def Jam from near extinction in the prior year to the leader of the hip-hop pack.

DMX hit the road with Jay-Z and the Method Man/Redman team on the blockbuster Hard Knock Life tour the following year.

A warrant for his arrest was issued in connection with a stabbing during a tour stop in Boston, of which he was later cleared. He was accused of assaulting a Yonkers man who’d allegedly harassed his wife in May (the charges were once again dropped). More serious charges were brought that summer, when DMX’s uncle/manager was accidentally shot in the foot at a New Jersey hotel. DMX’s home was raided by police, and they filed animal cruelty, weapons, and drug possession charges against the rapper and his wife. He eventually reached a plea bargain, receiving only fines, probation, and commuDMX continues on page 12

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nity service.

However, DMX signed to Columbia Records in January 2006. He DMX released his third and best-selling album ...And Then recorded his next album, Year of the Dog...Again, which was finally There Was X, on December 21, 1999. It was his third album to debut released on August 1, 2006, and lost the number one Billboard spot at number one on the Billboard 200. Its most popular single, “Party by only one-hundred sales. He released two more singles, “Lord Give Up”, became his first Top Ten hit on the R&B charts. The album was Me A Sign” and “We In Here” certified platinum six times. During its run, DMX returned to the big On June 12, 2008, DMX released a compilation of his greatest screen with a major supporting role in the Jet Li action flick Romeo hits, The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter. Def Jam released Must Die. another compilation album, The Best of DMX, in 2011, which feaLike Tupac, DMX’s post celebrity life has been touched with tures hit singles including “Where the Hood At?” and “X Gon’ Give It crimes and alleged misdeeds. In 1998, to Ya”. charges that he raped a 29 year old In 2009, DMX claimed he would stripper were dropped after DNA tests pursue preaching in Jersey City, New on the woman came back negative for a Jersey but will also continue to produce match. In addition, he’s been arrested music. He completed a Gospel album in connection with stabbings in Denver prior to his incarceration in 2010. and Yonkers, though both of those cases According to MTV, he has semi-retired to were dropped. study the Bible more in an effort to give He also was arrested on drug paramessages behind the pulpit. phernalia and weapons charges in addiAfter serving four out of six months tion to spending two nights in a Trinidad for violating drug probation, DMX was jail for swearing during a concert, where released from jail on July 6, 2010. That the practice is legally forbidden. day, a television pilot was filmed to porDMX in “Cradle 2 the Grave” He also entangled himself in a tray his road to recovery; however, DMX lengthy legal battle with police in Cheektowaga, NY (near Buffalo), was arrested three weeks later and the pilot did not evolve into a when he was arrested in March 2000 for driving without a license and series. On July 27, 2010, DMX was sentenced to serve ninety days in possession of marijuana. He missed one court date, and when he jail after turning himself in to Los Angeles Metropolitan Court for a turned himself in that May, police discovered more marijuana in a reckless driving charge he received in 2002. Arrested in Arizona pack of cigarettes the rapper had brought with him. He pleaded guilty November 2010 on charges of violating his probation by consuming and was sentenced to 15 days in jail, and his appeal to have the senalcohol (at a performance), DMX served the full twelve-month jail tence reduced was finally denied in early 2001. sentence.

After stalling for several weeks, he turned himself in and was DMX’s latest album, Undisputed, was released on September 11, charged with contempt of court. He was further charged with assault 2012 and featured production from Swizz Beats and J.R. Rotem, when, upon learning he would not be let out early for good behavior, along with a guest appearance from Machine Gun Kelly. allegedly threw a food tray at a group of prison officers. He later barThe father of ten children, DMX was married to Tashera gained the charges down to reckless assault and paid a fine, and Simmons in 1999 and they were married for eleven years. In July accused guards of roughing him up and causing a minor leg injury.

2010, Tashera announced their separation (just two weeks following Not long after DMX’s release from jail, his latest movie, the DMX’s release from prison). He still however claims they still remain Steven Seagal action film Exit Wounds, opened at number one in the best friends. box office. DMX also contributed the hit single “No Sunshine” to the DMX had multiple extramarital affairs during his marriage to soundtrack, and signed a multipicture deal with Warner Bros. in the Tashera, some of which produced children. DNA testing confirmed wake of Exit Wounds’ success. With his legal problems finally that he is the father of at least two of these children; the first was born resolved, he returned to the studio and completed his fourth album, to Maryland resident Monique Wayne in 2004, the second was born the more introspective The Great Depression. to a different woman in late 2008. DMX and Wayne fought over her It was released in the fall of 2001 and became his fourth straight claim that he was the father of her son for years, during which she album to debut at number one. Although it went platinum quickly, it has sued him repeatedly for defamation of character, and for child didn’t have the same shelf life as his previous releases. In late 2002, support. After DNA testing proved DMX fathered Wayne’s son in 2007, DMX published his memoirs as E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX, he was ordered to pay her $1.5 million. and also recorded several tracks with Audioslave (i.e., the former He was arrested on February 13, 2013 in Spartanburg, South Rage Against the Machine). One of their collaborations, “Here I Carolina for driving without a South Carolina driver’s license.

Come,” was featured on the soundtrack of DMX’s next film, a reunion DMX plays the role of Terrell (TJ) Johnson in the controversial with Jet Li called Cradle 2 the Grave. The film opened at number one motion picture King Dog set for release in 2013. Terrell Johnson, a upon its release in March 2003, and its DMX-heavy soundtrack former Insane Gangster Disciple leader went from making a gross fordebuted in the Top Ten. tune on the streets, to being incarcerated for 35 years to life. A couHis fifth album, “Grand Champ”, once again debuted at numple of years later, Johnson, a convicted felon was hired as the first ber one on the Billboard 200 charts, placing DMX as the only musifelon in America to become a police officer with the Memphis Gang cal artist in history to release five consecutive albums (his entire Task force at which point, this hardened criminal started a crusade album catalog at the time) that debuted at number one. Singles not only to change his life, but the lives of so many others. DMX, who include “Where Tha Hood At” and “Get it on the Floor”. After its is no stranger to adversity or overcoming odds, is the perfect fit for release, he informed the public that he planned to retire, and that this role both on and off the screen.

Grand Champ would be his final album. http://dmxweb.yaia.com/biography.html 14

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CONGRESSMAN G. K. BUTTERFIELD THE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE

By April Mial laws to better suit the election results they wanted, it was his presence at Features Editor the March on Washington on August Congressman G. K. Butterfield will 28, 1963, when Dr. Martin Luther serve as Grand Marshal of the 11th King gave the memorable, “I Have a Annual Durham MLK/Black History Dream Speech” that shaped his Month Parade on Feb. 2nd. future.

Born in a segregated south, “My father insisted that I travel George Kenneth Butterfield, known with him for the March on as “G.K. Butterfield”, grew up on the Washington.

I didn’t want to go. It black side of town, led civil rights was a very hot day,” Butterfield marches, and is very proud of his recalled.

“I had to miss a day from Black identity. school, but I went to theMarch on “I lived in a small rural commuWashington, and what I saw that day nity that was starkly divided between changed my whole perspective of the black and white. The railroad track world and community service.” literally divided the two communiThe March on Washington was a ties.” peaceful demonstration to promote Although he is proud of his Black Civil Rights and economic equality identity, at first glance, he does not for African-Americans.

An estimated look African-American nor does he 250,000 people attended. appear to have any drop of Black From that experience in his life, blood running through his veins.

Congressman G. K. Butterfieldown he earned a Bachelor’s degree in However, growing up in the south, it Political Science and Sociology from North Carolina Central was not uncommon for African-Americans to look white and University.

Afterwards, he served in the United States Army and have Black ancestry from generations back. later received his Juris Doctor degree from the North Carolina Congressman Butterfield was born in Wilson, North Central University – School of Law in 1974.

Carolina to two successful African-American parents. His mothTrue to his childhood ambition, he became a lawyer that er was a school teacher for over twenty years and his father was fought for injustices. As a civil rights lawyer who represented a successful dentist. His father even held the title of Wilson’s poor people, Butterfield took on many voting rights cases.In the first Black city council member in 1953 after beating a white Butterfield continues on page 17 candidate. As a result of his father winning, the city changed the electoral process – from a district election to an at-large election, which hindered his father from becoming re-elected.

POLITICAL HIGHLIGHTS “The case was taken all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, . He served as a Superior Court judge for 12 years until February 2012. and that case made quite an impression on me,” Butterfield . In February 2012, Democratic Gov. Michael Easley appointed him to the state said. “From that day forward, I wanted to be a lawyer so I could Supreme Court. go into court and litigate causes that were unjust.” . After he lost election in 2002 to a full term, Easley appointed him as a special In addition to witnessing the injustice of whites changing

Congressman Butterfield serves as Grand Marshal in Annual Durham MLK/Black History Month Parade. Photo: Mel Brown 16

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Superior Court judge. . He won in the July 2004 special election to replace the retiring Democratic Rep. Frank Balance, who later pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges in the operation of his antidrug foundation, party caucuses selected the nominees, and the six-week contest in this safe Democratic district. . In the House, he has a liberal voting record. One of his issues was urging the Federal Communications Commission to move slowly to all-digital cable television because he said that in poor rural places like eastern North Carolina, this could leave a lot of people in the dark when it comes to watching television. . In 2009, he became secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, an influential faction in the House. . In 2007, he got a seat on the influential Energy and Commerce Committee, where he has worked to prohibit states from passing on their Medicaid costs to counties. In his district, many counties spend more of their property-tax revenues on Medicaid than on the public schools. He advocated incentives to develop energy from hog and chicken waste. With vestiges of tobacco farming in his district, he fought to limit the size of an increase in the cigarette tax when House Democrats identified the tax as a source to expand the State Children's Health Insurance Program.

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BUTTERFIELD CONTINUES 1980s, he sued several jurisdictions to end the at large elections that hindered his father from winning his re-election and ultimately ending his political career.

“We filed voting rights lawsuits using the 1965 Voting Rights Act,” Butterfield begins, “and the success of all of those cases dismantled at-large elections and created electoral opportunities for the African-American community.”

Now, there are more than 300 black elected officials in the district he represents - the First Congressional District. While strides have been made, he says there is still a long way to go, especially in his hometown of Wilson.

While Congressman Butterfield continues to make strides in Wilson, as well as fights injustices across the district, he takes a moment to absorb and appreciate the work that he, and others have accomplished in the name of Civil Rights – especially on January 21, 2013, the same day as the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday – when he shared a front row view of the inauguration most people never see, which is right behind President Barack Obama, our first African-American president.

In November, Congressman Butterfield was unanimously elected by his colleagues as First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). As First Vice Chair, Butterfield will hold the number two position in the Caucus for the duration of the 113th Congress, which begins in January. Butterfield is presently Second Vice Chair of the CBC and has faithfully served the organization since 2004. Founded with only a handful of members in 1969, today the CBC boasts a membership of 42 and has grown into one of the most influential caucuses in the U.S. Congress.

Congressman G.K. Butterfield can be contacted at https://butterfield.house.gov/email-congressman-butterfield

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Congressman Butterfield on the campaign trail 2012

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11th ANNUAL DURHAM MLK/BLACK HISTORY MONTH PARADE HIGHLIGHTS ...Before the Parade starts, photographer Gabriel Aikens gets shots at the staging area.

PHOTOS: Gabriel Aikens 18

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DURHAM MLK/BLACK HISTORY MONTH PARADE HIGHLIGHTS CONTINUES ...The Parade heads up Fayetteville and photographer Gabriel Aikens captured some of the action.

PHOTOS: Gabriel Aikens

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DEBRA SAUNDERS-WHITE SELECTED AS 11TH CHANCELLOR OF NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY

Dr. Debra Saunders-White (third from left) has been selected as the 11th chancellor of North Carolina Central University in Durham by the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina. Dr. Saunders-White is joined on campus by (L to R) SGA Vice President Carmelo Montalvo; SGA President Reginald McCrimmon; Chancellor-Elect Dr. Debra Saunders-White; Miss NCCU Harmony Cross; Mr. NCCU Steven Cannady; and NCCU Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Dwight Perry.

Photo: Sage Brown

DURHAM, N.C. - Debra Saunders-White, deputy assistant secretary for higher education programs at the U.S. Department of Education, has been selected as the 11th chancellor of North Carolina Central University by the Board of Governors of the multi-campus University of North Carolina. Saunders-White, 57, succeeds Interim Chancellor Charles L. Becton, who joined the university in August 2012 following the abrupt retirement of Charlie Nelms. She starts the $285,000-a-year job June 1.

In recommending Saunders-White to the Board of Governors, UNC President Tom Ross said: “Over the past three decades, Deb Saunders-White has accumulated a wealth of leadership experience - in the corporate sector, at two highly respected universities, and in the halls of Washington. At each step along the way, she has proven herself to be an energetic leader who promotes collaboration, creativity, strategic thinking, and real-life commitment to engagement and public service. She has also demonstrated a passionate commitment to helping all students succeed academically and reach their full potential. She is no stranger to North Carolina or this University—having served for five years as a vice chancellor and interim associate provost at UNC Wilmington—so we can consider this a homecoming of sorts. With her broad experience in business, higher education, and government; her proven integrity and sound judgment; and her profound www.spectacularmag.com

understanding of the changing marketplace in which our students must compete, Dr. Saunders-White will be a forceful and effective leader for NCCU. We are delighted to bring her back to North Carolina.”

Since joining the Department of Education in May 2011, Saunders-White has been responsible for administering federal programs that increase access to postsecondary education for low-income, first-generation college students and students with disabilities. As deputy assistant secretary, she serves as the assistant secretary’s chief advisor on higher education programs and has oversight for more than 60 programs that strengthen the capacity of minority-serving institutions and help recruit and prepare disadvantaged students for successful college completion. This is the largest grant-making function within the Department of Education.

A Hampton, Va., native, Saunders-White earned her bachelor’s degree in history in 1979 from the University of Virginia, where she was a DuPont Scholar. She earned a master’s of business administration from The College of William & Mary in 1993 and a doctorate in higher education administration from The George Washington University in 2004. She also has participated in executive leadership programs sponsored by the NCCU Chancellor continues on page 22

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NCCU C HANCELLOR CONTINUES American Council on Education, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and Hampton University.

“Our students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners are thrilled to welcome Dr. Saunders-White into the NCCU family,” said Dwight D. Perry, chair of NCCU’s Board of Trustees. “Under her leadership, NCCU is poised for continued growth and future success. She possesses an innate passion for developing, educating and graduating the next generation of innovators and change agents. We look forward to working in collaboration with Dr. Saunders-White to raise NCCU’s profile as a premier institution for higher education.”

Before entering higher education administration, Saunders-White spent 15 years in the corporate sector. She joined IBM in in 1979 as a systems engineer and soon transitioned to marketing, where she assumed increasing levels of managerial responsibility for IBM’s higher education, finance, and public-sector marketing. By the time she left the company in 1994, she had earned numerous awards for customer engagement and other accomplishments.

From 1994 to 1998, Saunders-White taught collegepreparatory mathematics at St. George’s School in Newport, R.I. During her tenure there, she developed a course that used technology to engage students who “hated” math and developed a unit in which teams of students invested in the New York Stock Exchange.

In 1999, Saunders-White joined Hampton University as assistant provost for technology, tasked with designing and building the university’s first information-technology organization. Under her leadership, Hampton became the first HBCU in the nation to join the Internet 2 community and was named one of America’s “most wired universities” by Forbes Magazine and the Princeton Review. In 2005, she was promoted to the newly created post of vice president for technology and chief information officer.

Saunders-White left Hampton the following year to join the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) as vice chancellor for information technology systems. As a member of the chancellor’s executive leadership team, she was responsible for the strategic direction and operation of all IT resources on the campus. From 2007 to 2008, she also served concurrently as UNCW’s interim associate provost in the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion and as chief diversity officer.

At UNCW, Saunders-White was credited with improving emergency communications for campus safety preparedness; introducing new cost-effective classroom technologies; garnering national recognition for UNCW’s innovative use of mobile services; and co-developing the UNCW Learning Commons, a technology-supported library space for student learning and collaboration. In addition, she implemented a mentoring program to support at-risk teenagers in the Wilmington Housing Authority; collaborated with the UNCW Department of Sociology to provide reading and computer literacy training for Housing Authority residents; and engaged black male faculty in the creation of SEAM (Seahawks Empowering African-American Men) to provide mentoring and help improve retention and graduation rates. In the spring of 2011, she was tapped by the White House to serve as deputy assistant secretary and reported to Washington to assume her current post.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan applauded her selection to lead NCCU. “As a first-generation college graduate 22

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herself, Deb truly understands both the opportunity that higher education provides and the challenges that so many of our nation’s young people face in accessing and affording college,” he said. “She has worked tirelessly to expand access to resources that have opened doors for millions of students across the country, and her leadership has furthered our Department’s efforts to ensure that more young people have the chance to go to college. I Dr. Saunders-White am personally grateful for her leadership and am thrilled that as chancellor at North Carolina Central University, she will continue to help our nation achieve President Obama’s goal of again leading the world in college graduates.”

Active in civic and professional organizations, SaundersWhite has held adjunct faculty appointments in the Hampton University Business School and UNCW’s Cameron School of Business. She has been named a “cyber star” by Black Issues in Higher Education and has published articles and whitepapers on the role of technology in learning. While at UNCW, she was elected by her peers across the UNC system to serve as vice chair and then chair-elect of the UNC Chief Information Officers Council.

Saunders-White is a Silver Star member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and a member of the Links Inc. She is the mother of two children: Elizabeth Paige, a senior and member of the track and field team at Temple University; and Cecil III, a second-year student at the University of Virginia.

A reception in her honor was held in the W.G. Pearson Cafeteria banquet hall the same day Saunders-White appointment was announced. Hundreds from the university faculty and staff, as well as the Durham community, stood in line to meet the new chancellor-elect.

“The promise of higher education is what makes our eternal soul what it is in America,” Saunders-White said. “W.E.B. Du Bois stated that ‘If someone is going down the wrong road, he doesn’t need motivation to speed him up. What he needs is education to turn him around.’ Education is a powerful economic engine, especially for people like me and my three brothers — all first-generation college graduates. My mother grew up as a sharecropper in Northampton County, North Carolina, and my father, who is now in glory, was a used-car salesman. They educated the four of us without any debt, only by the sweat of their brow. They knew the value of higher education. For their sacrifices, I am eternally grateful. I believe that quality higher education is transformative and is our nation’s most prized asset.”

About North Carolina Central University Founded in 1910 and located in Durham, North Carolina Central University was the nation’s first publically supported liberal arts college for African-Americans, and it is one of 17 institutions in the University of North Carolina system. With a student population of more than 8,400, NCCU is a comprehensive university offering baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and professional degree programs. www.spectacularmag.com

RARE OPPORTUNITY TO VIEW PRELIMINARY EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION IN RALEIGH RALEIGH, NC - The Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation is one of the most significant documents in United States history. President Abraham Lincoln issued the document on Sept. 22, 1862, after the Union victory at Antietam (also called the Battle of Sharpsburg).

Signed by President Lincoln, the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation ordered thatin 100 days the federal government would free all slaves in the states still rebelling against the Union. The document formally alerted the Confederacy of Lincoln’s intention. On Jan. 1, 1863, with the Confederacy still in full rebellion, the president issued the final Emancipation Proclamation.

The public will have a rare opportunity to see the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation at the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh from Wednesday, May 15 through Sunday, June 16, 2013. This historical seven-page document is on loan from the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Admission is free.

The Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation will be featured in the exhibit Freedom Coming, Freedom for All, which is being presented by the North Carolina Freedom Monument Parkand the North Carolina Museum of History. The exhibit follows a timeline of events focusing on the status of North Carolina before the Civil War,events leading up to Lincoln’s issuance of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, andoutcomes and results of the document in the state and nation. Freedom Coming also examines the differences between the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, the final Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment.

“We are honored to join with North Carolina Freedom Monument Park to present this exhibit, which is especially relevant during the sesquicentennial of the 1863 signing of the final Emancipation Proclamation,” emphasizes Museum Director Ken Howard. “We are grateful to the National Archives for entrusting this document to us to share with others.”

Adds Dianne Pledger, Executive Director of North Carolina Freedom Monument Park, “What we will achieve through this partnership is an exploration of the deeper ramifications of the Emancipation Proclamation and its influence on society in subsequent years. By doingso, we hope toincrease historical awareness and civic engagement about the importance of freedom for all people. The Emancipation Proclamationis a reminder of our ongoing obligationto learn our history because it reminds us of our mistakes and successes.”

Freedom Coming will be complemented by educational resources and programs, including a two-day symposium on May 31 and June 1. After the exhibit closes and the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamationreturns to National Archives, a traveling version of Freedom Coming, comprised of 14 informational panels, will be available for museums, historic sites, and other organizations across North Carolina.

educational programs. The goals of the NC Freedom Monument Project are: To create and strengthen bonds among diverse people, to educate and enhance mutual understanding, and to serve as a model of cooperation, respect and common values. NC Freedom Monument Park planned for completion by 2017, will honor the African American experience and affirm the struggle for freedom for all by the creation of a public art park on a large corner space near the State Legislature and State Library-a spot visited annually by thousands of tourist and school children.

Major sponsors of Freedom Coming are theNorth Carolina Humanities Council, a statewide nonprofit and affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, PNC Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, Mechanics and Farmers Bank, Spectacular Magazine, and the News & Observer. Additional support is provided by the North Carolina African American Heritage Commissionand the State Archives of North Carolina.

For more information view website at www.ncfmp.org or Facebook.For more information about the Museum of History, call 919-807-7900 or access www.ncmuseumofhistory.org or Facebook.

North Carolina Freedom Monument Project, Inc. is a community-initiated effort which will honor what freedom means to all people in the state of North Carolina through beautiful public art and

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NEWSBRIEFS THE CENTRAL CAROLINA BLACK NURSES COUNCIL, INC. CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY

The Central Carolina Black Nurses Council, Inc. held its 30th Anniversary and 22nd Annual Lecture Luncheon on December 1 at the Friday Center in Chapel Hill. Dr. Deidre Walton, the 17th national president of the National Black Nurses Association, Inc., delivered the keynote address. The distinguished chapter service award was bestowed upon Ms. Angeline Baker of Chapel Hill for rending exceptional service to the chapter and a scholarship award of $1,000 was given to Willie Gilchrist-Stanfield from Hillsborough. Music was rendered by pianist Christian Foushee-Green. Pictured (seated Left to right): Jocelyn Gladney-Allsbrook, Edena Thomas (treasurer), Stephannie Cooper Senegal (secretary), Helen Horton (president), Mary Baldwin, and Bertha Williams; Standing (left to right): Erma Smith-King, Connie Kelley-Sidberry, Willie Gilchrist-Stanfield, Lily Richardson, Connie Levister, Dr. Deidre Woods Walton (NBNA President and keynote speaker), Jabar Akabar (vice president), Angeline Baker, Charlotte Knight-Ruffin, Gloria Anderson and Lisa Patterson.

HAGAN MEETS WITH PRESIDENT OF NC INSTITUTE OF MINORITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Hagan congratulates Andrea Agency in Commerce and the Harris on winning Lifetime Women’s Business Center in SBA as Achievement Award so important to assisting firms interested in global opportunities, WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. but more importantly, who want to Senator Kay Hagan met last week grow their businesses right here in with Andrea Harris, President of these United States of America. the North Carolina Institute of We must do more to support these Minority Economic Development firms right here at home. She (NCIMED), on the same day she was understood. She reached out and I presented with a major award in appreciate that.” recognition of her instrumental The Abe Venable Award for role in assisting minority- and Lifetime Achievement is a national women-owned businesses in North award given to “an individual who Carolina. Harris received the U.S. has played an integral role in the Department of Commerce Minority NCIMED President Andrea Harris (l) with NC Senator Kay Hagan creative, technical or professional Business Development Agency’s progress of the minority business community (MBDA) Abe Venable Award for Lifetime look forward to continuing to work with Andrea over the course of his or her life,” according to to move our economy forward.”

Achievement last Thursday, December 6th.

MBDA. Abe Venable was appointed by President “Having a Senator that sits on Committees “It was an honor to meet with Andrea and congratulate her on winning this impressive with responsibilities for Armed Services, Richard Nixon to serve as MBDA’s first African award that recognizes her immense contribu- Banking, and Small Business and American Director from 1970 to 1971.

Harris has led NCIMED as president for 25 tions to North Carolina,” Hagan said. “My top Entrepreneurship makes it so much easier to years.

NCIMED is a statewide economic developpriority is helping businesses grow and putting share some of the needs and challenges we ment nonprofit organization that aims to assist North Carolinians back to work, and Andrea is hear every day from businesses we serve,” minorityand women-owned businesses. helping us achieve these goals, especially with Harris said. “I shared the importance and the For more information about NCIMED, please visit: minority- and women-owned businesses. I value of the Minority Business Development http://www.ncimed.com/. www.spectacularmag.com

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HILLSIDE DRAMA TROUPE ONE VOICE PERFORMING AT DUKE UNIVERSITY MLK EVENT

DURHAM - Hillside High School drama students of the Drama Troupe "ONE VOICE" are pictured with Screenwriter and Author Antwone Fisher. The drama students performed prior to a speech given by Antwone Fisher on January 11, 2013 at Duke University Hospital to commemorate the events in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. The Hillside Drama students received a standing ovation after their performance. The Drama students were also invited to a VIP Reception where they enjoyed personal time with Antwone Fisher discussing "what it takes to make it in Hollywood."

RACISM ON AMERICAN IDOL? In January, nine former African-American contenders banded together for a potential lawsuit against the show. All of them were disqualified from the program for failing to disclose prior arrests, and if their attorney is to be believed, it’s not a coincidence that the powers that be decided to axe them when none were ever convicted of crimes. Apparently, it’s all a big conspiracy to exploit African-Americans in order to generate ratings.

According to TMZ, several former contestants have spoken out in recent days to defend the show and say they were all asked to disclose all former arrests and legal brushes they had. To some, their words have been enough to call into question the claims of racism, but to others, there’s still something very suspicious about all nine of the disqualified contestants being African-Americans.

TMZ also reports that it has obtained a letter, submitted to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by NY attorney James H. Freeman -- in which he asks for permission to sue Idol and FOX on behalf of his clients ... who have all appeared on the show: FYI, Freeman is required to file with the EEOC before filing suit.

The ex-contestants are: Corey Clark (Season 2), Jaered Andrews (Season 2), Donnie Williams (Season 3), Terrell Brittenum (Season 5), Derrell Brittenum (Season 5), Thomas Daniels (Season 6), Akron Watson (Season 6), Ju'Not Joyner (Season 8) and Chris Golightly (Season 9).

RADIO STATION DONATES TO LOCAL CHILDREN'S HOME

Photo courtesy of Duke University Photographer Jared Lazarus

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MCDOWELL NAMED PRINCIPAL FOR MCDOUGLE ELEMENTARY

CHAPEL HILL - Patrenia McDowell was named the principal for McDougle Elementary at the Jan. 17 Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School Board of Education meeting. McDowell has served as McDougle Elementary's interim principal since September and was the school's assistant principal since 2008.

McDowell holds a both Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a master of education degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. She also holds: a NC Principal's Certificate, Grades K-12; a NC Professional Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education, Grades K-6; a Curriculum Instructional Specialist certification; and Academically Gifted and Talented licensure. McDowell is also certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

Before joining Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, McDowell was an elementary school teacher in Durham Public Schools and in South Carolina. McDowell begins her tenure as principal at McDougle Elementary immediately.

ST. AUGUSTINE’S UNIVERSITY JUNIOR WINS FIRST PLACE AT RESEARCH CONFERENCE RALEIGH, NC - Saint Augustine's University's Brandon Scott won first place in the Engineering, Mathematics and Physics category for his presentation at the 12th Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS) in San Jose, Calif., Nov. 7-10. Dr. Doreen Cunningham and Dr. Marino Green accompanied six students to the research conference. The students, Brooke Gaines, Dezarea Little, Jennifer Plair, Scott, Kayla Walker, and Derrick Williams, networked with other stu-

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(From left) Tracy J. Mosley - Radio One Raleigh Promotions Director, Angela Williams - Central Children's Home of North Carolina, Inc. Executive Director and Scott English, Longhorn Steakhouse Managing Partner

Radio One Raleigh (WQOK 97.5FM, The Light 103.9FM, and Foxy 107.1/104.3FM) presented the Central Children's Home of North Carolina, Inc., located in Oxford, with a check for $3502.00. The radio stations were able to raise the money for the Central Children's Home through their Tip-A-Jock Holiday Community Service Efforts. During this project Radio One Raleigh's on-air personalities waited tables for tips at the Longhorn Steakhouse (8121 Brier Creek Parkway - Raleigh, NC). All tips collected were tax deductible charitable contributions to the Central Children's Home of North Carolina. Tracy J. Mosley, Radio One Raleigh's Promotions Director and Henderson native, organized the 'Tip-A-Jock" Holiday Community Service Efforts. "Being that our efforts supported an organization so close to home made organizing and participating in this project very special to me. With the support of Longhorn Steakhouse in Brier Creek, Radio One Raleigh listeners and Cricket Wireless, the "Tip-AJock" community service initiative was a huge success. We were able to exceed our goal of donating $2500 to the Central Children's Home and also increased awareness about the organization. That's what life is about…helping others," said Mosley.

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dents while navigating the many summer research internship and graduate school opportunities. Additionally, students are judged on their oral and poster presentations. More than 1,100 colleges, universities and companies were in attendance to actively recruit some of the best and brightest minority students in the world.

ABRCMS is the largest professional conference for biomedical, bioengineering, and behavioral mathematic students, attracting approximately 3,300 individuals, including approximately 1,700 undergraduate students, 400 graduate students & postdoctoral scientists, and 1,200 faculty, program directors and administrators. Students represent more than about 350 U.S. colleges and universities. The conference is designed to encourage underrepresented minority students to pursue advanced training in the biomedical and behavioral sciences, including math-

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ematics, and provide faculty mentors and advisors with resources for facilitating students' success.

NCCU SHARES IN GRANT TO DEVELOP WATER QUALITY SOLUTIONS DURHAM, N.C. - North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is one of six universities sharing in a $4.7 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant, of which NCCU will receive $400,000 over five years, is from the NSF's Partnerships for International Research and Education (PIRE) program and will support interdisciplinary research aimed at developing technological solutions to water quality problems. The program combines international collaborations in cutting-edge research in science and engineering while also promoting the development of young African-Americans and Latinos scientists and engineers. Six universities are involved in the project: NCCU, Duke University and Michigan State University are the U.S. participants. Joining them are leading research universities in Turkey, France and Singapore. The graduate students will also have opportunities to conduct research at one or more of the foreign universities involved in the project.

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SAINT AUGUSTINE’S UNIVERSITY PLANS TO ACQUIRE SAINT PAUL’S COLLEGE

RALEIGH, NC Beginning on January 1, 2013, Saint Augustine’s University moved forward with joint management of the operations of Saint Paul’s College located in Lawrenceville, Virginia. Founded in 1888, Saint Paul’s College is one of three historically black colleges affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Saint Augustine’s University and Voorhees College are the other two.

The executive committees of the boards of trustees of both schools negotiated in November that Saint Augustine’s University would acquire Saint Paul’s College, a financially struggling institution that was stripped of its accreditation in June by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Loss of accreditation meant students wouldn’t be eligible for federal and state aid.

In August, a federal judge granted an injunction allowing St. Paul’s to keep its accreditation while it continued to contest the case in court. The school opened in September with a stripped-down schedule and only 111 students. The acquisition would mean that St. Paul’s would fall under St. Augustine’s accreditation.

The joint management agreement will allow Saint Augustine’s University to complete its due diligence on the proposed acquisition while providing support to the Saint Paul’s College campus. A plan is being developed that will create a campus of Saint Augustine’s University, which is located near downtown Raleigh, at the Saint Paul’s College site, a 183-acre campus in south central Virginia.

“The acquisition wasn’t something we set out to do,” said Shelley Willingham-Hinton, a spokeswoman for St. Augustine’s.

“We’re saving a sister institution that was struggling.” Saint Augustine’s University is committed to preserving the legacy and history of Saint Paul’s College. This strategic decision by both boards will allow for enhanced educational opportunities for current and future students enrolled in both institutions.

“There continues to be a number of unknowns; however, we are excited about the possibilities as we move forward in a cautious and responsible manner. Our main responsibility continues to be the on-going health, and viability of Saint Augustine’s University.

We have a tremendous opportunity Suber ahead of us – a chance to create a model for other institutions with challenging circumstances. And, a chance for both of these fine institutions to leave their footprints on the future,” said President Dianne Boardley Suber. www.spectacularmag.com

BOOSTER CLUB MAKES $10,000 DONATION TO SHAW ATHLETICS

RALEIGH, NC - The Shaw University Athletic Booster Club made a $10,000 donation to the Shaw Athletic Department in a check presentation held before the October 27 football game against Winston-Salem State. The gift is the largest the group has made to the athletic department. The funds will go to cover scholarships and operating expenses. The check was presented to Interim Athletic Director Marcus Clarke by Charles Graves, treasurer of the club, who was accompanied by a number of club members. “The Athletic Department is grateful for the generous donation to our program by our athletic boosters. Their support of us goes beyond just attending games, but also striving to make sure that financially we can meet our goals in serving our student-athletes,” said Clarke. The President of the Shaw University Athletic Booster Club is Bobby Davis.

For more information or to join the Boosters, visit www.shawboostersclub.com. For more information on Shaw athletics, visit www.shawbears.com.

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PRINCE HALL MASONS OF NC DONATE TO CENTRAL CHILDREN’S HOME

OXFORD, NC — At the December 18th Central Children’s Home (CCH) of Oxford Board of Directors’ meeting, the Honorable Milton F. Fitch, Jr., Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of N.C., Inc., presented two monetary gifts to CCH from the Prince Hall Masons of N. C. Angela Williams (left), CCH Executive Director and Dr. Michelle Ogle (right), Board president, accepted the gifts. A $5,000 gift was given to fund improvements to the outdoor lighting on the campus.

The second gift of $20,000 was the annual contribution from individual members of Prince Hall. The Prince Hall Masons have also committed $25,000 to fund the installation of air conditioning in the campus gym.

The Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall affiliate, has also donated $25,000 for the AC installation.

PRESIDENT YANCY PARTICIPATES IN NYU SYMPOSIUM ON MINORITY EDUCATION Honolulu, Hawaii - Shaw University President Dr. Dorothy Cowser Yancy, was one of five Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) presidents selected to participate in a special symposium on the campus of Chaminade University in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 15. As part of New York University’s (NYU) Faculty Resource Network Winter Seminars, the symposium discussed programs that help minority students successfully attend and graduate from college. In addition, Yancy the goal of the event was to bring together mainland Hawaii and other local educators to discuss strategies that have been effective and new ideas for recruiting, retaining and engaging high-risk students, including those who are African-American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. This symposium is a program of the Faculty Resource Network at NYU, an award-winning professional development initiative that sponsors programs for faculty members from a consortium of over 50 colleges and universities, including a core group of 13 HCBUs. The Network hosts lectures, symposia and intensive seminars, all of which are designed to improve the quality of teaching and learning at its member and affiliate institutions.

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LIFESTYLE

DURHAM ALUMNAE CHAPTER OF DELTA SIGMA THETA, INC. PRESENTS MISS JABBERWOCK 2012-13

Group of the 2012-13 Jabberwock Court with Escorts from Left to Right – Mr. Tremayne Saliim escorted Miss Kira Taylor (2nd Runner Up), Mr. McKinley Edwards escorted Miss Tessa Bryd (1st Runner Up), Miss Janea Best (2012-13 Miss Jabberwock Queen) with escort Mr. Akiel Pyant, Miss Shontonette Johnson (3rd Runner Up) with escort Mr. Lawrence Mitchell and Arieýana Easterling (4th Runner Up) with escort Mr. Nicolas Roberts.

DURHAM, NC – With the theme “Golden Jubilee: 50 Years of Elegance and Scholarship” thirteen beautiful debutantes graced the stage of the B.N. Duke Auditorium on February 2nd in anticipation of the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s annual Jabberwock Scholarship Gala.

The Durham Alumnae Chapter Jabberwock Gala honored the event’s last 50 years of service as the sorority is celebrating 100 years of service. The thirteen debutantes expressed their height of excellence with a dynamic opening performance to Michael Jackson “Remember the Times”.

The moment many awaited came with the crowning of Miss Jabberwock 2012-13 Janae Best. The Jabberwock Court consisted of 1st Runner-up Tessa Bryd, 2nd Runner-up Kira Taylor, 3rd Runner-up Shontonette Johnson and 4th Runner-up Arieýana Easterling.

Other superlative awards presented were Most Dependable - Janae Best & Lawrence Mitchell; Most Sincere - Kira Taylor & Lloyd Branch, Jr.; Deepest Thinker - Tessa Byrd & Marcus McGarrah; Most Dramatic - Chelsea Williams & Tremayne Saliim; Most Unique Style - Sade Monds & McKinley Edwards; Mr. Personality - Larry Hall, Jr. and Miss Congeniality - Arieýana Easterling. www.spectacularmag.com

JABBERWOCK DEBUTANTES JANEA BEST, a Durham Academy junior, is the daughter of Moses Best, Jr and Veta McNeil-Best. Her escort was Akiel Pyant and she was mentored by Sharon Beard and Leola Jenkins.

TESSA BYRD, a Josephine Dobbs Clement Early College High School senior, is the daughter of Herman and Valentina Byrd.

Her escort was McKinley Edwards and she was mentored by Betty Blackmon, Helen Hudson and Carolyn Thornton Walker.

ARIEÝANA EASTERLING, a Hillside High School junior, is the daughter of Aric Easterling and Torya Smith. Her escort was Nicolas Roberts and she was mentored by Chonna Campbell, Remell Clemons and Deloris Harris.

DOMINQUE GREEN, a Northern High School senior, is the daughter of Lieutenant Dayeta Bailey. Her escort was Lloyd Branch, Jr and she was mentored by Lori Jones Gibbs and Stephanie Williams.

DYONNA HOOPER, a Durham Performance Learning Center senior, is the daughter of the late Ellis Dock Hooper and Dianne LaVerne Thorne. Her escort was Larry Hall Jr. and she was mentored by Carol Johnson and Nina Jones.

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SHAIANNA JOHNSON, a Riverside High School junior, is the daughter of Regina Johnson. Her escort was Bryce Thompson and she was mentored by Jamie Lewis and Tara Shuler.

SHONTONETTE JOHNSON, a Hillside New Technical High School junior, is the daughter of Shonnethia Johnson. Her escort was Lawrence Mitchell and she was mentored by Pamela Criswell, Ayana Moore and Dakya Sims.

ALEXIS MCCALLOP, a Josephine Dobbs Clements Early College High School senior, is the daughter of Alton and Michelle McCallop. Her escort was Marcus McGarrah and she was mentored by Phyllis Joyner and Marietta Taylor.

SADE MONDS, a Hillside High School senior, is the daughter of the late Danny Monds and the late Teresa Conrad. Her escort was Kameron Dickens and she was mentored by Gloria Doyle, Sitti Lowery and Ida Page.

JAMIE OXENDINE, a City of Medicine Academy senior, is the daughter of Pastor Robert and Pamela Oxendine. Her escort was Jaron White and she was mentored by Yvonne Fisher and Trish Harleston.

KIRA TAYLOR, a Hillside High School junior, is the daughter of Todd Taylor and Natasha Smith. Her escort was Tremayne Saliim and she was mentored by Lauren Davis, April Pyatt, and Bernadette Watts.

IMANI THOMPSON, a City of Medicine Academy senior, is the daughter of Rohan Thompson and Toya Lennon. Her escort was Imasiku Mufali and she was mentored by Harriette Davis and Frances McIver.

CHELSEA WILLIAMS, a City of Medicine Academy senior, is the daughter of Norman Lovick Jr. and Deborah Williams. Her escort was Shi Brooks and she was mentored by Betty Reed and Angelique Witherspoon.

The Jabberwock was initially presented in 1925 in Boston, Massachusetts. Jabberwock, a word copyrighted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., derives from Lewis Carroll’s tale Alice in Wonderland nonsense poem “Jabberwocky,” in which it was customary for creatures from throughout the kingdom to gather annually to present a gala event.

The Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has held this annual scholarship program since 1962, awarding scholarships to Durham County residents. The Jabberwock Gala is a formal event resulting from the culmination of social activities, community service, educational workshops, and scholarship fundraising opportunities. The scholarships awarded to the 2012-13 debutantes Jabberwock candidate were in excess of $41,000.00. Mrs. Kesha Lee and ABC 11 News Anchor Fred Shropshire were outstanding in their role as Mistress and Master of Ceremony. Gloria McNeil - Durham Alumnae Chapter President, Sonya Harris (2nd Vice President and Jabberwock Chair) and Chena Flood (Jabberwock CoChair) coordinated the event, along with Durham Alumnae Chapter members assisting in many roles to make the Jabberwock Gala a huge success.

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This is Your Life...

BY

DEL MATTIOLI

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Black History Month recognizes the endurance Del Mattioli and astonishing acts of unwavering heroism of African Americans. Black History month (February) was started by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as “Negro History Week” and later as “Black History Month. He was disturbed that African American contributions to America were barely recognized and Blacks were perceived as “inferior in social positions”.

Dr. Woodson was the son of former slaves. He started high school at 20 years old, graduated in two years and obtained his PH.D from Harvard.

February was chosen because it recorded birthdays of two great heroes that had greatly influenced the African American population (Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln). Frederick Douglas desired to better the lives of his fellow Americans. He conferred with Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and was asked

by Abraham Lincoln to recruit Northern African Americans for the Union Army. He was the leader of the abolitionist movement that impacted the ending of slavery and was known for being the first African American leader of national stature in US History and continued to fight for racial equality.

The history of life insurance for African Americans is interesting. Life insurance has been around since the early Roman Empire. ONLY burial polices were sold to Blacks. Policy premiums sometimes exceeded the amount to be paid out at death and Blacks paid higher premiums because of race. Even though the practice is no longer the case - studies show that 80% of African Americans still ignore the importance of life insurance.

North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company was started to allow Blacks to discuss and obtain life insurance. America didn’t support or recognize African Americans as valued business owners based on their ability rather than on their race. North Carolina Mutual was not only an insurance company for Blacks - it carried additional burdens for the Black race such as being a “safe haven” for Blacks to become educated in financial literacy. The company served both as an “informational center” and a complaint center. Blacks felt comfortable to “open up” and be appreciated. BLACK HISTORY WAS MADE! By encouraging our youth, our community leaders, our institutions, businesses, and families to learn more as how to protect themselves by owning adequate Life Insurance is key to everyone’s “peace of mind”. Life Insurance is one of the tools that make sense to include in a financial plan but it is the most misunderstood because you can’t eat it, touch it, drive it, wear it, or feel it. The big “Pay off” is when you are gone and someone else can do these things.

Hypothetical: If 1,000 head of households owned $250,000 term insurance and 10% die within 20 years...consider $2,500,000 flowing back in our communities.

Awesome thought, right?

Many people seem to avoid the basics and settle for burial expenses. It goes beyond funerals and plots. Life insurance can prevent some financial ruins if properly set up.

Black History Month is an opportune time to explore the guarantees of Life Insurance. Experienced professionals will assist you with your priorities and goals. Let’s commit to bridging the gap of poverty to wealth and make our legacy last forever. WE CAN DO IT! Doing this may ease some of the tax burdens we now face. Education and change in perception are virtually “FREE”.

Del Mattioli Del Mattioli, MBA, CLTC, LUTCF, MDRT, an experienced financial service professional for over 25 years. 919 .401.9988 4213 Hope Valley Road, Durham, NC 27707 www.delmattioli.com www.spectacularmag.com

SPORTS

Highlights from CIAA 2012

...Where Sports is King!

by LAWRENCE ‘King Law’ DAVIS

Hello, welcome to the newest section of Spectacular Magazine: Spectacular Sports. I am Lawrence Davis, your guide to all things dealing with your favorite teams around the Triangle.

CIAA – With the CIAA Tournament coming up February 27 - March 2, there are a few things you should know in case there is a chance you can find time to actually watch a game. First off, in the Men’s division, look for Winston-Salem Lawrence ‘King Law’ Davis State to make a big push forward towards the end of the season. Coach Bobby Collins has this team playing very well recently. Great play from the point position in Marcus Wells and a hot-handed Justin Glover, they will be the team to watch coming out of the South region.

Another team to keep your eye on is Elizabeth City State. They seem to be the strongest team heading in to the end of the season. They have had outstanding leadership and effort from Senior guard Angelo Sharpless all season. Coach Shawn Walker has the best 3pt shooting team in the CIAA believing they can win it all this year.

In the Women’s division, Elizabeth City is looking very nice this year.

They are looking to overcome their disappointing season last year and return to their dominant ways. They have been very impressive and look to be a great pick heading in to this year’s tourney and look to grab their second championship in three seasons under Coach Alico Dunk. Stephanie Harper and Shatara Jackson, preseason All-CIAA forward and guard respectively, have led these Lady Vikings very well so far.

One group of ladies you can never forget to mention are the returning CIAA Champions, The Lady Bears of Shaw. Despite Coach Jacques Curtis describing this year as “a rebuilding year,” The only thing they are rebuilding is a repeat of success experienced last year. This may have a lot to do with returning senior guard Sequoyah Griffin, who has a 1.3 assist-to-turnover ratio, 4th best in the CIAA. She is joined by underrated senior forward Taylor Dalrymple, who is averaging a monster 14.8 ppg and 8.5 rpg. The Lady Bears will definitely be a favorite going in to the end of the season.

SOUTH STANDINGS (MEN) NORTH Elizabeth City State 14-8 (7-5) Lincoln (Pa.) 13-9 (6-6) Virginia Union 8-12 (5-7) Virginia State 11-11 (5-7) Bowie State 9-12 (5-7) Chowan 6-15 (0-12) www.spectacularmag.com

St. Augustine’s 15-7 (8-4) Winston-Salem State 17-4 (10-2) Livingstone 16-5 (8-4) Johnson C. Smith 15-7 (8-4) Shaw 13-9 (7-5) Fayetteville State 8-13 (3-9)

PHOTOS: Greg Coats

MEAC - North Carolina Central University men's basketball team is looking forward to MEAC tournament play but not before finishing off regular season play at Hampton on March 7th. The women will also finish out their season as well as part of a double-header. The women are trying to finish out the season strong despite a less-than-spectacular season.

The NCCU men are recently coming off a victory over rival NC A&T, winning 51-47 in the home of the Eagles. This was a hard-fought game Sports continues on page 34

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forgetting to mention she went 11-12 from the charity W L CONF SCHOOL stripe. She also added four assists Miami 23 5 14-2 and rebounds to the Duke 25 4 12-4 stat sheet.

North Carolina 21 8 11-5 After the NC State 21 8 10-6 game when asked what she has Virginia 20 9 10-6 learned so far after Maryland 20 9 8-8 completing her first Florida State 15 14 7-9 regular season, she Georgia Tech 15 13 5-11 told us "You have to play hard every sinClemson 13 15 5-11 gle game. You canBoston College 13 16 5-11 not take anything Wake Forest 12 16 5-11 for granted." This Virginia Tech 13 16 4-12 was evident as she was aggressive on both sides of the ball, making key plays on defense and also getting two three-point play opportunities and completing them. "It takes all of us to win [games]."

Sophomore Elizabeth Williams also had a spectacular game as she contributed 13 points, six rebounds, one assist, two steals and five blocks. This game was a pick-me-up as they lost to the University of Miami six days before. The Lady Blue Devils head in to ACC tournament play March 8th as they have the number one seed and await the winner of NC State/Clemson game.

The Duke Blue Devils men's team look to build on momentum after a huge 79-76 win as senior Ryan Kelly, a Raleigh native, returned back from a foot injury that sidelined him for over a month with what Coach Krzyzewski calls, "One for the ages. As good a performance as any [Duke] player has had in Cameron." Kelly had a career-high 36 points, shooting 10-14 from the field, 7-9 from behind the arc. He added seven rebounds to contribute. The Blue Devils take on Virginia Tech Tuesday March 5th for Senior Night.

ACC MEN’S BASKETBALL STANDINGS

NCCU junior forward Stanton Kidd goes up for 2 of his 14 Submitted photo points for victory against rival NC A&T.

where defense really set the tone of the game. It was W L CONF SCHOOL apparent as both teams struggled to Norfolk 20 10 15-0 shoot over 40% NC Central 21 8 14-1 from the field. The Hampton 14 15 11-4 free-throws were Savannah State 17 13 10-5 the key to a maroon and gray victory as Morgan State 13 14 9-6 they went 19-21, NC A&T 15 15 8-7 90% from the line.

Delaware State 13 16 8-7 A&T however strugBethune Cookman 12 18 7-8 gled in that category, only shooting Florida A&M 8 21 5-10 31% from the freeCoppin State 7 23 4-11 throw line, including Howard 7 23 4-12 going 0-4 in the first Md Eastern Shore 2 24 2-13 half. Despite the woes at the charity stripe, the team from Greensboro led for the majority of the game. The Eagles were led by Stanton Kidd and Jeremy Ingram, who both had 14 points. The Aggies were led by Jeremy Underwood coming in as a substitution to contribute all 11 bench points.

MEAC MEN’S BASKETBALL STANDINGS

ACC - The Lady Blue Devils of Duke University look to enter the ACC Tournament and continue their dominance in the conference despite losing their main focus ACC WOMEN’S on offense Chelsea BASKETBALL STANDINGS Gray.

Coach McCallie has these W L CONF SCHOOL girls believing they Duke 27 2 17-1 can go all the way.

North Carolina 26 5 14-4 They are coming off a very intense senMaryland 23 6 14-4 ior day victory Florida State 21 8 11-7 against rivals UNC, Miami 20 9 11-7 winning 65-58. This Virginia 16 13 8-10 game was a huge building block for NC State 15 15 7-11 the Blue Devils as Georgia Tech 14 15 7-11 freshman Alexis Wake Forest 12 18 5-13 Jones achieved a Boston College 11 18 5-13 career-high in points with 22, not Clemson 9 20 5-13 34

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Lady Blue Devils Sophomore Elizabeth Williams shoots from the charity line in game against Florida State.

Photo: Lawrence Davis www.spectacularmag.com

ENTERTAINMENT

THE WHISPERS vs THE DRAMATICS

SATURDAY MARCH 9TH AT DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Who Will The Battle?

One of R&B music’s most beloved and consistently popular vocal groups, The Whispers, began their legendary and timeless career in 1963. Twin brothers Walter and Wallace Scott joined with friends Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon to form a local singing group. They perfected their tight harmonies on the street corners in the Watts section of Los Angeles and in nightclubs in the in the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area.

They began singing together as “The Eden Trio” created by Nicholas Caldwell and Marcus Hutson. Later, they were renamed The Whispers by Lou Bedell of Dore Records. The group recorded nine singles for the Dore label between 1964 and 1967. In 1969 they released “The Time Will Come” for a small L.A. based label Soul Clock Records, and subsequently recorded their first Top 10 R&B hit, “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong,” in 1970 when the group switched to Janus Records. By 1971 Gordy Harmon decided to leave the group and was replaced by Leaveil Degree who had previously sung with “The Friends of Distinction”.

The Whispers produced a string of hits over the next two decades and emerged as the leading romantic singers of their generation, racking up one gold album after another and charting numerous R&B hits throughout the seventies and eighties. The Whispers were the first artists featured on the newly formed Soul Train label (co-owned by the TV show’s creator and host Don Cornelius and entrepreneur Dick Griffey). They gained national attention with their seventies albums, “One For The Money”, “Open Up Your Love”, and “Headlights” producing two singles that graced Billboard’s Top 20 R&B Charts: “(Let’s Go) All the Way” and “(Olivia) Lost and Turned Out”.

Their first platinum album “The Whispers” (1980) highlighted “A Song For Donny,” a song written by Carrie Lucas in memory of Donny Hathaway, and their biggest hit “And The Beat Goes On.” It was their most successful selling album (double platinum). The neoclassic “Lady,” written by group member Nicholas Caldwell, is still a favorite at concerts. 1987’s “Just Gets Better with Time”, went platinum. It featured the R&B number 1 and US Top 10 pop entry “Rock Steady”, a collaboration with Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds.

Their vocal style harkens back to a more genteel era of crooning, preferring soft pillow talk and songs that speak to heartfelt emotions. They are arguably the most celebrated R&B balladeers of their generation and still make women swoon with their silky yet forceful tenors of twins Walter and Scotty. In the 1990s, The Whispers joined the Capitol Records family releasing more favorites.

Expanding their creative horizons, brothers Walter and Scotty cut “My Brothers The Whispers continues on page 35

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In the late 1960s, success was undoubtedly on the horizon for the Detroit-based sextet known as The Dynamics. The original sextet was comprised of Ron Banks, Rob Davis, Larry Reed, Robert Ellington, Larry Demps and Elbert Wilkins. After Ellington s departure, the group released their first single in 1967, “All Because of You,” under the name The Dramatics. The song reached No. 42 on the Billboard R&B Charts, but still some members were disheartened with the direction of the group, which brought about major lineup changes. William Howard replaced Reed as the lead singer and Willie Ford replaced Rob Davis as Bass.

The Dramatics also signed with producer Don Davis and with all the pieces finally in place, they were poised to make a run at stardom. Their rise would be a slow, patient process, but it paid off when they collaborated with songwriter Tony Hester to create their first bona fide hit, the soulful “Whatcha See is Whatcha Get.” The song peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard R&B charts and it stayed on the charts for 15 weeks. The Dramatics followed up their first hit with another Top Ten single, “Get Up and Get Down.”

The following year, The Dramatics made the successful R&B/pop crossover with the single, “In The Rain,” another Hester creation. The song bolted to No. 1 and No. 4 on the Billboard R&B and pop charts, respectively.

Even with their rising momentum, The Dramatics managed to continue their signature roster shuffling. Larry L.J. Reynolds, an up-and-coming artist, who was pursuing a solo career and was signed with Don Davis’ production company, impressed The Dramatics with an audition following a performance at the Apollo one night. Their common production company made him a logical fit to replace Howard as lead singer during absences.

In 1973, Howard decided to leave the group, opening the door for Reynolds to replace him permanently. The group underwent yet another change when Lenny Mayes replaced Wilkins around the same time as Howard’s departure. The result was a flawless transition as they continued to prevail with such hits as “Hey You Get Off My Mountain” which cracked Top Ten status on the R&B charts.

As they moved into the latter half of the 70s during the prime of disco music, The Dramatics survived with such Top 20 R&B hits as “Shake It Well”, “Ocean of Thoughts” and “Dreams”, off their 1977 album, Shake It Well. The Dramatics' success continued with mainly R&B Top 20 hits, cracking the R&B Top Ten just once more with "Welcome Back Home" in 1980.

In 1980, the group recorded one of its strongest efforts with the album, 10, The Dramatics continues on page 37

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ENTERTAINMENT CONTINUES

Did U Know?...

10 THINGS YOU THOUGHT WERE BLACK OWNED -- BUT AREN'T BET, George Foreman Grills and Dark & Lovely No Lye Relaxer have a commonality: They’re not as black as you think. For the confused, we have compiled a shocking list of 10 things you thought were black owned but actually aren’t. (source: www.thebvx.com) 10. Black Entertainment Television If black is in the name, it must be black owned, right?

The network was founded by an African American, Robert Johnson, in the ‘80s, but in 2003, BET was sold to Viacom, which also owns MTV and VH1. The sale made Johnson one of the first black billionaires.

Ballin’!

9. Def Jam Records The label, born out of a college dorm room and built on MCs like Run-DMC, Jay-Z and Kanye West, is commonly associated with its co-founder, Russell Simmons, who escaped a financial mishap by selling 50 percent of the label to Polygram in 1994. In 1999, Russell sold his stake in the business to Universal Musical Group for $100 million. No wonder the label’s more Rihanna than rap these days.

8. Marc Ecko If you’re into urban wear, then you may already know that Marc Ecko is a thirtysomething New Jersey native who never tried to pass for black. Instead the man whose line was once considered “too white” or “too black” for some retailers has attracted multiethnic consumers by cleverly targeting urban markets. But where does the rhino fit?

7. Jimmy Jazz The 20-year-old company, which has more than 120 stores throughout the United States, housing lines like Baby Phat, Rocawear and Coogi, was founded by James Kherzie. The young Brooklynite opened the store as an alternative outlet for hard-to-find urban brands. Despite hip-hop’s lyrical mentions of the brand, the name is based on the song ‘Jimmy Jazz’ by punk rockers The Clash.

the producers behind the black dramedy is Kelsey Grammer. Grammer is best known for his role on ‘Cheers’ as Frasier, and his production Grammnet was also responsible for the African American comedy ‘Girlfriends.’

4. The George Foreman Grill Say it isn’t so! The household staple bearing George Foreman’s name is not owned by the former heavyweight champion. The grill’s inventor, Michael Boem, sought out George because he was a burger freak known to consume the item before fights. The money behind the grill? Salton Inc., which was later acquired

by Applica, and George sold the rights to the use of his name in 1999 for $127 million and stock options. I ain’t mad at ‘em!

3. Church’s Chicken No, we don’t think African Americans have a supersize love for chicken but we do know that Church’s is scattered across numerous urban neighborhoods occupied by minorities. The founder targeted areas where Kentucky Fried Chicken, at the time, would not locate. George Church started the no-frills chain in Texas before being acquired by a public company and then sold to a private equity firm.

2. T.V. One The network that has revived ‘A Different World” is not 1980s BET in the making. T.V. One is primarily a partnership between Radio One’s Cathy Hughes and the mammoth cable company Comcast Corporation. But we do love ‘Unsung,’ though.

6. Essence Magazine The publication that was once the second largest black publication hasn’t been black owned since the remaining minority stake in Essence Communications Inc. was sold to Time Inc. in 2005. The corporation originally purchased 49 percent of the popular African American publication in 2000, leaving the style bible in the hands of a man more partial to Brooks Brothers than Carol’s Daughter.

1. SoftSheen Carson If you’re thinking of hair care products, items by SoftSheen Carson probably come to mind.

The 46-year-old Softsheen brand was acquired by L’Oreal in 1998 and merged with another minority brand, Carson Products. The company that helps many black women maintain their hair is actually owned by L’Oreal USA, which is owned by the parent Parisian company L’Oreal Group. We knew Kelly Rowland was just the face for Dark & Lovely.

5. ‘The Game’ The popular CW show, which is set to have second life on BET, was created by Mara Brock Akil, but one of

Until next time!

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Gary ‘DJ Special Gee’ Jones Entertainment Editor gjones@spectacularmag.com www.spectacularmag.com

THE WHISPERS CONTINUES Keeper”, a critically acclaimed duet album in 1993, scoring another R&B hit with a cover of the Intruders’ “I Wanna Know Your Name.” “Toast to the Ladies,” released in 1995, featured a collection of love songs dedicated to women all over the world. In 1997 the group moved to Interscope Records where they featured the works of Babyface once again with their album, “Songbook, Vol. 1: The Songs of Babyface”.

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E AR T O T HE S TREETS GARY ‘SPECIAL GEE’ JONES

Marcus stopped performing with the group in 1989 due to ill health, and in 2000, when he passed on, the Whispers vowed never to replace him. The group has not made any personnel changes and still consists of Walter Scott, Wallace Scott, Nicholas Caldwell, and Leaveil Degree.

CLASSIC SLOW JAMS

On September 23, 2003, The Whispers’ four decades of accomplishments were acknowledged when Charlie Thomas of the Drifters inducted them into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. They continue to perform to sell-out crowds all over the world, and their popularity continues to grow among youth whose parents “raised” them on the Whispers’ music.

They are also known for their charitable work with youth that participate in the PAL (Police Athletic League) Reading Program, and their ongoing support to domestic violence organizations and cancer agencies.

The Whispers waited almost a decade to produce a new CD in 2006. This independent product, the first venture of their newly formed company, Satin Tie Productions, is a masterpiece entitled “For Your Ears Only”.

According to Walter, “This title is a way of saying to our fans that we appreciate everybody’s support that has been with us for many, many years.” Nick’s perspective deals with its essence. He states, “In my opinion, the CD represents the musical DNA and artistic expression of what the Whispers were and have become during their 42 years together. It was conceived to please the ears, hearts and minds of our super- supportive and loyal family of fans. It was a labor of love and I believe a body of work blessed by God.” CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: Four Decades of Pop and R & B Favorites, Seven Gold Albums, Two Platinum Albums, 12 Top Twenty Singles, 40 Charted Hits Since 1970, American Music Award Nominees, Soul Train Award Nominees, Grammy Award Nominees 2003 Vocal Group Hall of Fame Inductees, 2005 Regional Grammy Governors Award, 2002 NAACP Image Award.

THE DRAMATICS CONTINUES which turned out to be somewhat of a farewell album as Reynolds left in 1981, and Banks followed suit in 1983.The group was mentioned in the book The Algiers Motel Incident by John Hersey. They were staying at the Algiers Motel, following a performance at Detroit’s Fox Theatre, during an alleged murder by members of the Detroit Police Department, which was one of the incidents which sparked the Detroit Riots of 1967.

The Dramatics’ “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get” appeared in the 2003 documentary 8 Wheels & Some Soul Brotha’ Music, in the 2005 documentary Sunday Driver, as well as the movies, Wattstax and Darktown Strutters, and the 2007 Petey Greene biopic, Talk To Me. The Dramatics were reunited in the late 80s and continue to the present day, keeping up a busy touring schedule and occasionally releasing a new studio album. Even Howard, their original lead vocalist, returned in 1986, as a featured singer on their Somewhere in Time album. Their grasp of superior soul remains as sure as ever.

If you would like to be featured as Unsigned Artist of the Month, email cd as an mp3, along with photo, bio and contact info to: gjones@spectacularmag.com Artist selection is at the sole discretion of Gary Jones, Entertainment Editor.

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EARTH, WIND & FIRE TEDDY PENDERGRASS FREDDIE JACKSON LUTHER VANDROSS PRINCE RICK JAMES ZAPP FEA. ROGER TROUTMAN 8. O’JAYS 9. BOOTSY COLLINS 10. BLUE MAGIC 11. CON FUNK SHUN 12. CAMEO 13. THE MANHATTANS 14. THE WHISPER 15. ISLEY BROTHERS 16. READY FOR THE WORLD 17. THE COMMODORES 18. KEITH SWEAT 19. JOHNNY GILL 20. GUY

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Reasons Turn Off The Lights Rock Me Tonight A House Is Not Home Adore Fire & Desire Computer Love

COLUMBIA ELECTRA CAPITOL J RECORDS PAISLEY MOTOWN WARNER

Forever Mine I Rather Be With You Side Show Love Train Why Have I Lost You Kiss And Say Goodbye Lady For The Love Of You Let Me Love You Down Just To Be Close To You Make It Last Forever My My My Lets Chill

MCA WARNER ATLANTIC MERCURY CHOCOLATE CITY COLUMBIA CAPITOL T-NECK MCA MOTOWN ELECTRA MOTOWN MCA

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Spectacular Magazine 2013 Man of the Year Criteria & nomination form at www.spectacularmag.com Nomination Period: April 1 - April 19, 2013 Voting Period: May 6 - May 24, 2013 February/March 2013

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DURHAM MLK/BLACK HISTORY MONTH PARADE HIGHLIGHTS CONTINUES ...Photographer Mel Brown captured the entire Parade. Here are a few. More photos at http://mtfimages.zenfolio.com/mlkparade2013

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More Parade Photos - next page www.spectacularmag.com

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