January2016 online by Spectacular Magazine

January 2016

celebrating the life of

D r . S haron E lliott -B ynum

14th Annual NC MLK Black History Month Parade

Grand Marshals

REP. LARRY HALL & SEN. DAN BLUE, JR.

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DERON AVERY Spectacular Magazine enlightens, empowers and entertains with news, features, columns, commentaries and calendars. Spectacular Magazine is published monthly and distributed free in Durham, Wake, Orange, Granville, Vance and Person counties. DEADLINE FOR ALL SUBMISSIONS IS THE 25TH OF EACH MONTH. CONTACT US: info@spectacularmag.com or by mail: P.O. Box 361 Durham, NC 27702 919.680.0465

IN THIS ISSUE Vol. III, Issue I Ballin’ Out

Briefly

Commentary

Cover Story

Community Health

Did U Know?

Editorial

Entertainment

FEATURES African american cultural Sen. Dan blue jr. Dr. Sharon elliott-bynum Rep. Larry Hall

15 10 18 11

Race, courts

From The Publisher’s Desk

Health & Beauty

Lifestyles

News Briefs

Out & About

Samantha’s Infinite Solutions

Sports

Cover Photo: Greg Coats 4

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EDITORIAL

From The Publisher’s Desk...

“ Our Lives Begin To End The Day We Become Silent About Things That Matter ” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr

SPECIAL THANK YOU Special thanks and sincere appreciation to J.C. “Skeepie” Scarborough, III and Queen Marable Bass Scarborough (pictured center), President/CEO and Vice President/COO, respectively, of Scarborough and Hargett Funeral Home, Incorporated Memorial Chapel and Gardens in Durham, NC for use of their facility and statue for the cover photo shoot. The Scarborough’s commissioned the statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with plans to find a permanent home in a designated location (park) in the City of Durham.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Phyllis Coley

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COMMENTARY

A MESSAGE TO 2016 CANDIDATES FOR OFFICE: PLEASE START TALKING ABOUT CHILDREN By Michelle Hughes

office in North Carolina are not talking and expensive child care make it tough to about children. That’s a shame, because meet the basic needs of their families. Two-thousand and our kids’ and our state’s future depend on sixteen is a big how well we prepare our next generation. We hope candidates will begin talking election year in North about these challenges and potential Carolina—voters So, to the candidates for North Carolina’s policy solutions, like providing low-income will chose their elected offices, here are two big issues working parents with refundable tax next Governor, U.S. that some of you might be talking about, credits and expanding access to child Senator, Attorney but not why they are important to care vouchers. General, all 170 children. We filled in the blanks for you state legislators and a number of other below: Closing the Coverage Gap – North offices important to the future of our Carolina’s elected officials have the state’s children. These races will affect our Family Economic Opportunity – Children opportunity to provide affordable health children’s lives in ways the presidential living in financially secure families are insurance to over 500,000 adults who are races can’t, because they affect our state’s more likely to succeed in school, stay stuck in the coverage gap with no good budgetary priorities and policies. healthy and achieve economic selfway to get health insurance. Thousands sufficiency as adults. Unfortunately, half of of these people are parents with children As a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, all North Carolina children (1.12 million) at home and most of them are working, NC Child doesn’t engage in electoral live in low-income families. (“Low-income” but they cannot afford to buy health politics or endorse specific candidates, is defined as having an annual income of insurance on the prevailing wages in but we do care an awful lot about what $48,500 or less for a family of four.) industries such as retail, construction or candidates have to say about children food service. Their incomes are too low to and the issues that affect them. We believe that hard work and personal purchase health insurance in the private responsibility are critical for economic marketplace and too high to qualify for So far, they’re not saying much. well-being, but we also recognize that Medicaid. all North Carolinians need opportunity Aside from funding for public schools, and support to thrive. Most parents in North Carolina can make its own which has become a divisive, high-profile, low-income families are employed, but affordable plan to close the coverage partisan issue, candidates for elected low wages, a lack of affordable housing gap. Other states like Arkansas, Kentucky,

and West Virginia have done it and we can, too. If we close the coverage gap for adults, we will improve the health and wellbeing of our state’s children. By providing health coverage to women of child-bearing age, we will reduce the risk of infant mortality; by insuring the whole family, we will diminish the risk of catastrophic medical debt; and, by covering parents, we will help cut the uninsured rate for North Carolina children. (This phenomenon has occurred in other states that have expanded coverage for adults.) Strengthening family income and health care are the two most significant things we can do to help kids in North Carolina. Anybody who aspires to lead our state needs big ideas about these issues and they need to talk about them. For our children’s sake, let’s hope candidates leave behind the partisan soundbites and start talking about the issues that really matter to our children. Michelle Hughes is the Executive Director of NC Child. This essay originally appeared on the organization’s “For Children’s Sake” blog.

HATEFUL RHETORIC CONTRIBUTES TO VIOLENCE, HARMS NATIONAL SECURITY

By Marc Morial

In the last few months, there have been two dozen anti-Muslim attacks in the United States, ranging from a cabdriver shot in Pittsburgh to the deliberate torching of a Somali restaurant in Grand Forks, N.D. The owner of a food market in Queens was beaten by a customer who vowed to “kill Muslims.” Threats, vandalism and discrimination are rampant. Donald Trump’s call to ban all Muslims

from entering the country, even U.S. citizens, is breathtaking in its bigotry. To exclude any group based on religion or ethnicity is an anathema to American ideals. It not only violates our Constitution, but our shared sense of decency. As far back as June the National Urban League called upon all Presidential candidates to refrain from divisive language and hate speech. It’s clear that call has not been heeded by every candidate, and there can be no denying that such rhetoric has contributed to the atmosphere of hostility that leads to acts of violence.

We also abhor and condemn senseless acts of terrorism, which are in themselves their own insidious brand of hate-inspired violence. The violence and hostility are not limited to Muslims – hate crimes motivated by religion, race and sexual orientation remain all-too common. This hatred – and fear – is corrosive and cannot be tolerated. Religious and racial bigotry are not core American values. In fact, such bigotry is more than unpatriotic; experts agree that anti-Muslim rhetoric contributes to radicalization and recruitment by jihadist groups.

Politicians appealing to voters’ basic instincts is nothing new. But the level of vitriol may be unprecedented in modern American politics. Sadly, comparisons to the rise of Adolph Hitler are no longer hyperbolic in this case. This ugliness must stop. It’s dangerous not only for our Muslim brothers and sisters, but all people as well as our national security. We call on those engaged in such rhetoric to reconsider the consequences of their reckless spew. We call upon all Americans, especially the Presidential candidates, to denounce bigotry and work for greater understanding among cultures and peace.

PRESIDENT OBAMA’S ACTIONS ON GUNS “COURAGEOUS,” WILL SAVE THOUSANDS OF LIVES Congress Still Must Act In Response To National Outcry By Marc Morial On average, more than 32,000 people in the United States died from gun violence every year, and more than 17,000 of them are children. The year is less than a week old, and already more than 120 people have been killed by guns. Gun violence has outpaced automobile accidents as a leading cause of death. Gun violence is undeniably one of the

worst public health crises in American history, yet our elected leaders have been woefully unresponsive. It’s hard to imagine such inaction in the face of any other plague responsible for such death and devastation. President Obama’s plan to expand background checks undoubtedly will save lives. In states that require a background check for private handgun sales, the rate of women shot to death by their domestic partners is nearly halved. Those states

also see half as many firearm suicides and half as many law enforcement responders shot to death. It’s hard to argue with results like these.” I have been alarmed by the undue influence the firearm industry has wielded over Congress and its apparent ability to block commonsense safety reforms like banning assault weapons and keeping guns out of the hands of the mentally ill and domestic abusers. The vast majority of the American people support increased safety measures, yet Congress has been afraid to respond.

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With tens of thousands of Americans dying, our leaders must find the courage to act. Marc H. Morial is the President and CEO of the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City that is dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities.

REFUGEE STAMPEDE MANIA

right of sovereignty for nations, the need for choice among people in a free society and the need to preserve ones culture When one flees from within the bounds of the established ones homeland to government. The Obama Administration escape persecution and danger, a refugee is wrong in taking in Syrian refugees is born. So apropos to in numbers proposed when thousands have stood and continue standing in line the Xmas story is this following existing laws on entry. Until scenario where with we allow Haitians in this nation with the no room in the inn a child was born in a manger. Now it seems impunity granted others, resolve the issue of the 100,000 Bantu’s approved by that a religion of Moses’ descendants President George W. Bush a right of entry from his first born son, Ishmael, has spawned generations which have become to this nation and others such as Somalian vagabonds from their own homeland now women who often have been forcibly circumcised in a painful and possibly life wandering the world looking for shelter. threatening ritual, others should not be Unlike in the Xmas story, a new religion was born and rather than continue running allowed to cut line. We must also quit the away from their beginnings Mary, Joseph preferences given for technological skills, family reunification and other subjective and Jesus would originally return to their homeland and preach a different kind of reasons not involving persecutions. We should encourage folks to return home gospel. when their communities are settle to prevent their brain drain and allow The mass exodus of citizens overflowing rebuilding from those who share their the USA border with Mexico and values. European boundaries from the Middle East has unleashed a xenophobia which Flying overhead from on high, it must not has seen no equal. Many would make be lost that the uninhabited land in this the target Islam but the culprit of such nation is massive. As a biologist, one also concern involves other differences and knows you cannot put people on every ethnic integrity. When a new population reproduces at a rate which exceeds those square foot of land without destroying our trees for oxygen generation, fresh already there or when the culture being water filtration and food stuff production. brought in has customs and religious laws As a constitutionalist, one appreciates so different from those of the existing that when people come in they have to communities, collisions will occur and be willing to give up their old ways of extinction is possible for those being governance if our society is to survive. infiltrated. By Dr. Ada Fisher

Unfortunately when nations in Europe and some pockets in the USA where population growth hasn’t kept up with the need for lower level workers or where the advancements of the nation exceed that from where refugees come, everybody seems to want in and the will of those seemingly being stampeded gets loss in a sense of political and misplaced global correctness. Such can cause civilization to flounder and unleash mass chaos. Lost in the refugee conversation is the

When I was hungry you fed me. When I was naked you clothed me. But that can easily be lost if we allow others to impose their will on our constitutional form of government and go for the feel good okey-doke instead of the tried and reasoned existence which we currently have.

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT OBAMA The open letter below from Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood was sent to President Obama on 1/13/16 Mr. Barack Hussein Obama President & Commander-In-Chief United States of America White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear President Obama: Re: “Hope and Change” I do not in any way feel you “failed” us in your efforts toward “hope and change.” Not only will you go down in history being the first Black U.S. President, you are the only U.S. President in American history where a “Tea Party” was created whose purpose was to discredit, destroy, disrupt, and obstruct the success of the U.S. President and work to elect candidates to carry out the mission of legislative sabotage, legislative terrorism, and even legislative treason. Despite such lowdown devilish tactics of legislative self-destruction and “obstruction” used against this President, he still managed to perform his duties with dignity, grace, competence, and far better than most of his 43 predecessors. This makes you and your presidency most exemplary of the true definition of “success” as eloquently defined by Booker T. Washington. Washington said, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” Yes Mr. President, you spiritually, professionally, politically, and academically defeated the Tea Party and legislative terrorists both in becoming President in spite of their unfair campaigns against you, and succeeded by “overcoming” the overwhelming “obstacles” placed before you by the same old, ugly, and bloodstained hands of racism. This has lit a fire and should give us all “hope” as we will continue fighting and believing as in the words of Sam Cooke - “’Change’ is gonna come, oh yes it will!” CONGRATULATIONS! In the spirit of justice always, Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood

Dr. Ada M. Fisher is a physician, licensed secondary educatio teacheR, former School Board member and as well as the NC Republican National Committee Woman. DrFisher@GETADOCTORINTHEHOUSE.com

OP-ED SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Spectacular Magazine accepts opinion articles on any topic, not only policy, politics or government. If it’s opinionated and you believe our readers will find it worth reading, please submit it. Submissions of any length will be considered but the more concise the better chance it will be selected for print. All submissions must be original, and exclusive to Spectacular Magazine. We will not consider articles that have already been published, in any form, in print or online. Submissions may be sent in either of these ways: By e-mail to: opinion@spectacularmag.com Or by mail to: Spectacular Magazine Opinion Page P.O. Box 361 Durham, NC 27702 Submission must include your full name, address and phone number.

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OUT & ABOUT

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COVER STORY

14th Annual NC MLK Black History Month Parade Co-Grand Marshal

NC SENATE DEMOCRATIC LEADER SEN. DAN BLUE, JR. lifelong North Carolinian, Daniel T. Blue, Jr. was born in Lumberton to Daniel T. Blue, Sr. and Allene Morris Blue on April 18, 1949. Growing up in his parent’s fourroom farmhouse in Robeson County, Dan quickly learned that the values of hard work, faith, and education were the keys to a successful future – lessons learned from his parents, his teachers and his community. Never losing sight of those values, Dan has worked hard his entire life to help provide North Carolinians with the same opportunities to succeed.

creation, including developing programs to promote and support start-ups and small businesses. Our best opportunities come from within: nurturing our own start-up businesses and accelerating the growth of our small businesses. Those jobs rarely pack up and relocate overseas. It is also important to him to develop our workforce through public education and the community colleges. If We Want A Stronger Economy, We Must Invest In Our Schools

As North Carolinians, we believe in education. In fact, we believe in it so much that we include the right to an education for each and every North Carolinian within our Constitution. Sen. Blue has pushed legislation to improve funding for Wake County’s Public Schools, our community college and our state university system. These institutions train First elected to the North Carolina House our future workers, mechanics, doctors, of Representative in 1980, Dan Blue lawyers, entrepreneurs and leaders. They has spent his entire career in public life provide pathways out of poverty and fighting for the interests of working lifelong learning for a competitive workfamilies: better education for our kids, force. They enable workers to become jobs and economic development for the managers and entrepreneurs. state, workers’ comp and workers’ safety, Making health care available, accessiaccess to health care, and retirement ble and affordable security for our seniors. He has consistently been rated one of the most effective Health care is a basic need and Sen. Blue vows to continue to fight for legislation members of the General Assembly. As a and policies that protect patients and House Representative, Senator Blue was consumers, that make health care more re-elected eleven times. affordable to private individuals, and that make health care more affordable for the In 1991, Dan was elected Speaker of the House, where he cut millions of dollars in public. wasteful government spending, creating Serving As Grand Marshal the climate for the state’s unprecedentWhen asked what it means to be named ed economic growth in the 1990’s. As Grand Marshal, Hall proclaims, “Thank Speaker, he was responsible for the you for this wonderful opportunity to passage of an unprecedented series of workplace safety initiatives, and for many serve as Grand Marshal on this historic occasion. It is truly an honor for me. As innovative programs to improve our a long serving member of the General public schools and reform our criminal Assembly (the only African-American to justice system. ever serve as Speaker of the NC House of Representatives, and having been a In addition to serving as Speaker of the member of both the House and Senate), I House, Dan has served as Chairman of the Judiciary and Appropriations commit- am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way because of the courageous tees. Dan is a founding partner of Blue, Stephens & Fellers, a law firm in Raleigh, efforts of those who came before me. NC. Dan holds nine honorary degrees and Many were brutalized and died, just for asking for the right to vote. Many of the has served as the Chairman of the Board struggles back then are being repeated of Trustees at Duke University. today, just to retain that precious right. After working hard in North Carolina public schools (Dan was Valedictorian of his high school class in Robeson County), Sen. Blue attended North Carolina Central University, where he earned a degree in Mathematics. He graduated in 1973 from the Duke University School of Law.

Priority Number One: Jobs and a We have witnessed many states across the Stronger Economy Sen. Blue’s priority is to create permanent jobs and an environment that sustains job SEN. BLUE CONTINUES ON PAGE 12

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COVER STORY

14th Annual NC MLK Black History Month Parade Co-Grand Marshal

NC HOUSE DEMOCRATIC LEADER REP. LARRY D. HALL Larry D. Hall serves as Democratic Leader of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Serving in the North Carolina House of Representatives since 2006, Leader Hall works to move North Carolina forward and is instrumental in legislation that is important to the people in North Carolina, including the Healthy Families & Workplaces/Paid Sick Days, Honest Lottery Act, NC Cancer Treatment Fairness Act, Extend Federal Emergency Unemployment Insurance, Restore Early Voting Period, Honor Fallen Soldiers, and Disclosure of Certain Campaign Solicitations.

of Durham public schools, Leader Hall earned a B.S. with Honors in Political Science and Business from Johnson C. Smith University and a J.D. from the School of Law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Commissioned as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps after undergraduate graduation, decorated officer Larry D. Hall served 16 years in the United States Marines and the Marine Corps Reserves and served in the support of the Operations in the Middle East in Lebanon and Iran. Leader Hall has been awarded the Navy Achievement Medal, the Marine Corps Reserve Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Under the leadership of Hall, the North and a Meritorious Unit Citation from the Carolina House Democratic Caucus United States Marine Corps. Leader Hall gained the most seats of any Demoreturned to North Carolina Central Unicratic Caucus in a Republican majority versity to teach at the School of Law and controlled state, House or Senate, in the the School of Public Administration. United States during the 2014 Election. Leader Hall’s decisions and actions are District 29: Durham, North Carolina merited by the people of North Carolina District 29 is the home of North Caroliand he has been hailed a Champion of NC na Central University, Duke University, Working Families, a 100% Environmental Durham Technical Community College, Champion, and a Defender of Justice for Lincoln Federal Health Center, the hishis commitment to expanding opportuni- toric Black Wall Street, the American Toties throughout the state for individuals bacco Historic District, and the Durham and communities of low incomes, proPerforming Arts Center. District 29 is tecting vulnerable families and members also the home of the Durham Bulls Triple of the military from predatory lending, AAA Baseball team which was featured supporting responsible legislation, and in the movie “Bull Durham.” safeguarding voting rights. Hall has also received the NAACP’s President’s Leader Hall is active in his community Award, the Equality in Legislation Lead- and currently serves on the Duke Medical ership Award, and the Excellence from Center Advisory Board. Hall has served the Courtroom to the Capital Community as an Executive Committee Member and Service Award. Economic Committee Chairman of the Durham Branch of the NAACP, as SecreHall continues to be a voice for the tary and Chairman of the Durham Busipeople of North Carolina and keeps ness and Professional Chain, and served the public informed on actions taken in on the Durham Chamber of Commerce the legislature. Leader Hall briefs the Board of Directors. Leader Hall has also country on the progress as well as the served as Executive Officer of the Young injustices taking place in North Carolina Marines Program, Board Chairman of the via national television reports and Hall Durham Companions Mentor Program, has been featured twice in Governing and as an instructor and training officer magazine. Remaining active in his com- teaching youth leadership, discipline, munity and throughout this great state, custom, courtesies, and traditions of the Hall understands and shares the needs Marine Corps. of the people of North Carolina. Leader Hall remains committed to supporting, A Singular Honor advocating, protecting, and expanding When asked what it means to be named opportunities for North Carolina’s greatGrand Marshal, Hall proclaims, “Being est asset— it’s people. the Grand Marshal of this celebration is a great honor that brings with it great Vested in His Community, Vested in responsibility. This day of celebration North Carolina and the parade mark an opportunity Leader Hall is honored to call District 29 to give life to the goals of Dr. Martin in Durham, North Carolina home. LifeREP HALL CONTINUES ON PAGE 12 long resident of his district and a student

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SEN. BLUE CONTINUES

REP. Hall CONTINUES

nation - particularly those in the American South - take steps to make it more difficult for African-Americans and other minorities to vote and to vote meaningfully. It was the civil rights amendments of the 1860’s that gave us the right to vote, but this right evaporated at the end of the 1890’s and took no real meaning until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Yet again, it was a Supreme Court decision in 2013 that ruled pre-clearance requirements unconstitutional, thus opening the gates for many of the laws passed since then that hinder our right to vote. Unfortunately, these laws and their effect are eerily similar to those of the early 1900’s in disenfranchising us.

Luther King, Jr. as well as to honor the achievements, contributions and culture of Blacks in America.

I am reminded of Martin Luther King’s May 1957 “Give Us the Ballot” Address at the Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom in Washington D.C., where he exhorted federal officials, President Eisenhower and Congressional office-holders of both parties to “give us the ballot” so that we no longer had to worry the federal government about voting rights. However, today we seem to be fighting these battles once again, whether its voter identification laws, racial gerrymandering, or other techniques designed to make it harder for African-Americans and other minorities to cast a ballot and elect their representatives of choice. We’ve seen actions taken by our own State Legislature that makes it much harder for many minorities to vote. As one who is in the middle of this fight to protect our right to vote, I urge all African-Americans and others of good will to get involved in the political process, exercise you right to vote, and never allow this precious right to be taken away again. You must register to vote, register others, and vote in every election.”

What a challenge to, to try to compress the appropriate recognition of all of Black History into one month. We know that every generation has achievements and that each succeeding generation carries the expectations of greater achievement from the previous generation. What are the goals that we must reach in voting rights, human rights, educational attainment, healthcare access & affordability, economic development and discoveries in science this generation? This parade and the celebration events that accompany it are the “All-Spark”. We should use this as a “Spark” for the community to rally “All” persons of good will of every class together in celebrating the great potential of humanity. This is a chance to recognize Black American achievement, effort, potential and promise in one setting and in many instances in single individuals or organizations. I hope this inspires, educates and excites all about the great future we can create. The aspirations we all have are dependent upon fairness, equity and participation. The cords of democracy bind up this great future and voting rights are the base of citizen participation. The vote is the pathway of engagement that allows us to equitably dream, participate and achieve. Be great, VOTE this year!” (Source: www.larrydhall.com)

(Source: www.danblue.org)

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FEATURES

RACE, COURTS AND TWISTED DISTRICTS By Steve Ford

cue from Washington and explored the issue more thoroughly. The threejudge panel that originally signed off on the current districts should have been told to intensify its fact-finding, Beasley wrote, and should have been given a chance to “get it right” in light of the Alabama decision.

Few of the decisions made by the men and women of our General Assembly are so prone to self-serving, partisan abuse as the setting of boundaries for voting districts. When legislators yield to that temptation, it’s inescapable that the rights of some voters to have a fair, equal voice in elections are trampled into the dirt. We are now into the third decade of high-stakes legal battles over the constitutionality of North Carolina’s periodic exercises in what’s known as redistricting. If the U.S. Supreme Court were the parents of unruly children rough-housing in the basement, it would be long past the time when the warning went out: “Don’t make us come down there!” But this year may provide the moment when those fed-up “parents” go clomping down the stairs. The shape of voting districts is a sensitive, consequential issue because it plays such a big role in determining who gets elected to our representative bodies of government, and thus who has the inside track in passing laws and setting policies. In North Carolina, the Republican Party has held that inside track ever since its victories in the 2010 elections – as part of a national pushback against first-term President Obama – gave it the power to reconfigure legislative and congressional districts in keeping with that year’s census. The party’s legislative leaders undertook an aggressive district remapping calculated to boost its candidates while marginalizing Democrats. The strategy worked. In 2012 and 2014, Republicans captured large majorities in the legislature and the state’s congressional delegation, even in the face of healthy Democratic vote totals. Democratic politicians, playing their own brand of hardball, had used some of the same tricks when they had the chance. This time, however, the Republicans faced an inconvenient truth: Many of the Democratic voters whose voices were being muffled were African-American. And under the nation’s hard-won civil rights laws, racial minorities are supposed to be protected from measures that would

In particular, she said, the panel should have been instructed to drill more deeply into the role that race played in the drawing of several districts tagged by plaintiffs as having been impermissibly packed with black voters.

deprive them of a fair say at the polls.

a dissent by Democratic justices signaled that the plaintiffs had scored important points.

Supreme scrutiny So the redistricting chiefs found themselves in court, answering lawsuits filed by civil rights and social justice advocates. The essence of the complaint was that many black voters had been packed into a relatively small number of painstakingly drawn districts – thereby purging the surrounding districts of voters who tend to support Democrats. Yes, the predominantly black districts would likely elect black candidates. But African-Americans’ overall influence would be diminished as Republicans, typically white conservatives, rolled up victory after victory in the larger number of districts that remained.

Newby

Along came the U.S. Supreme Court, which has had to sort out several North Carolina redistricting puzzles. In April of last year, the high court told the state Supremes to take another look at the case. This was on the heels of a ruling to the effect that a similar Republican-engineered redistricting plan in Alabama amounted to an unconstitutional racial gerrymander.

The court in Raleigh went back to work, after its fashion. It heard another round of arguments in August. The decision came on Beasley Dec. 18, in an opinion written by Justice Paul Newby and joined by his three Republican colleagues. There was nothing amiss with his court’s previous ruling, Newby concluded, and the A panel of three state trial judges was Alabama case wasn’t a problem. He the first to consider the challenges. It might as well have told the nation’s top found no fault with the redistricting court to take a hike. scheme. In late 2014 the state Supreme Court agreed. The court’s RepublicanIn dissent, Justice Cheri Beasley majority makeup made the ruling (a Democrat) argued that the state somewhat less than a surprise, although Supreme Court should have taken the

If race indeed was a predominant factor in deciding which voters would be included in those districts, Beasley asserted, then the legislators who drew the maps should have had to meet the high legal standard that the Supreme Court has said must accompany racebased classifications if they are to pass constitutional muster. The redistricting plans would have to be “narrowly tailored” to achieve a compelling public interest. Beasley, in her opinion joined by Democratic Justices Robin Hudson and Sam Ervin IV, didn’t hide her skepticism as to whether the plans met that standard. 21 and counting The Republican-drawn maps relied heavily on two approaches that ended up concentrating black voters in a limited number of districts. First, they created districts in which AfricanAmerican voters were in the majority – at least half of the voters, plus one. Second, they aimed to draw districts in such a way that the number of black office-holders would be proportionate to the black voter population, which stands at about 21 percent of the state’s total. The rationale – and a cynical one it was – is that the state thus could defend itself against any challenges brought under the federal Civil Rights Act that it had not given black citizens a fair chance to elect candidates of their choice. Plaintiffs in the current lawsuit, including the state chapters of the NAACP and the League of Women Voters, would say that a redistricting RACE CONTINUES ON PAGE 14

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RACE CONTINUES plan under which African-Americans are expected to win 21 percent of the available seats while they lose influence in other, far more numerous districts amounts to winning the battle while losing the war. When their appeal goes back to the Supreme Court in Washington, they’ll understandably hope that Justice Stephen Breyer and his four colleagues who last year threw out the Alabama redistricting scheme will side with Cheri Beasley in finding North Carolina’s response to the Alabama ruling to have been inadequate. Rightward ho When one party or the other skews districts to its advantage, the consequences can be profound. In North Carolina the Republican Party has been able to lock in an overwhelming legislative majority for the last three years. That period has seen a dramatic shift toward the right across a range of policies, including budgets and taxes, business regulation and higher education. Many legislators will reclaim their seats in the election next fall without an opponent because running against an incumbent in a gerrymandered district is seen as an impossible task.

in 2012, Republican groups propelled Newby to victory on the strength of an expensive burst of late-campaign TV ads. His win meant a Republican majority on the court. The party’s legislative agenda is almost guaranteed to provoke legal challenges that are destined for review by the state’s highest court. Not surprisingly, more money is being spent to influence judicial elections. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, North Carolina’s 2014 judicial campaigns were the second-most expensive in the country. The flow of money came after the legislature scrapped North Carolina’s cutting-edge system of public campaign financing for seats on the appellate courts. Obviously, the thinking was that Republican candidates for judgeships would benefit. The Supreme Court’s partisan divide today is 4-3, Republicans over Democrats. It perhaps has to be taken as a given that some rulings will comport with justices’ ideology as they view the law through that lens. But it should be troubling when we see Republican legislators enacting laws that then are routinely upheld by Republican-controlled courts, whose members owe their election in considerable degree to campaign funders aligned with the party.

No wonder, then, that seats on the state Supreme Court are now so vigorously contested, with ideologically driven interest groups spending unprecedented sums to boost candidates whom they see as being in sync with their views.

It’s even more troubling when those laws are enacted in pursuit of an agenda that favors the wealthy, the well-connected and the privileged at the expense of ordinary people trying to improve their lives and the lives of their children. The Council of Churches joins those who look to the U.S. Supreme Court to throw the brakes on a redistricting process that lies at the heart of this misapplication of partisan power.

Judges of course are supposed to follow the law, not their own policy preferences. But it was telling when,

Steve Ford, former editorial page editor at Raleigh’s News & Observer, is now a Volunteer Program Associate at the North Carolina Council of Churches.

It falls to the courts to decide whether legislators, in their redistricting process, have been carried away by partisan zeal to the point where some voters’ rights have been violated.

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Statewide Kickoff to Black History Month

15TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CELEBRATION

The 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 30, will be filled with music, dance, storytelling and more. There will be activities for all ages. (Photo: N.C. Museum of History RALEIGH, NC - The statewide kickoff to Black History Month is taking place at the N.C. Museum of History (5 E. Edenton Street) in Raleigh. On Saturday, January 30th,

from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, the 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration will feature over 75 musicians, storytellers, dancers, chefs, historians, playwrights, authors, artists,

MLK All-Children’s Choir

re-enactors and more. Admission is free for this family festival, named a “Top 20 Event” in 2015 by the Southeast Tourism Society. From acclaimed gospel singer Mary Williams and the MLK AllChildren’s Choir to New York Times best-selling author Damon Tweedy and “Personal Chef to the Stars” Chef Rome, a variety of presenters will share African American heritage and culture. Plenty of hands-on activities for children will include a scavenger hunt and making a cowrie shell necklace. “This year’s African American Cultural Celebration will focus on the theme Civil Rights —

March On!,” said Emily Grant, who has organized the event since 2001. “It’s a great way to learn about our history, both the celebratory and painful pieces of our past.” For example, re-enactor Carolyn Evans will portray activist Mamie Till in her presentation of Women Who Could’ve Sung the Blues, and Saauda Eshe will sing freedom songs when she presents a powerful characterization of Odella Holmes, who had an active role in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The festival’s excitement begins on Bicentennial Plaza at 10:30 am, when the Tryon Palace Jonkonnu Drummers and A Drummer’s World Drumline will process to the museum to open the event. There is so much to see and do, so plan to stay for the day. AACC CONTINUES ON PAGE 16

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AACC CONTINUES

The African American Cultural Celebration will be presented in six categories that encompass culture and history. Several event highlights follow; however, for a complete schedule of all performances and presentations, visit NCMOH-programs.com.

pilots at Piedmont Airlines; and ● Panelists in the discussion Slave Gardens to Black Wall Street, a retrospective about African Americans and business.

from: ● Clarissa Lynch, presenting the

Literature And The Spoken Word Hear from award-winning authors and

Music, movement and drama

Catch performances throughout the day: ● Larry Draughn, renowned drummer who has shared a stage with Branford Marsalis, Nnenna Freelon and others; ● Johnny White and the Elite Band, a popular dance show band known for its Motown medleys and high- energy choreography; ● MLK All-Children’s Choir, a 130-voice ensemble of many races that performs across the country; ● The Gifted Arts, presenting step dance and drama; and ● Tim Jackson, a poet, spoken word artist and rapper.

History, film and enterprise The Tryon Palace Jonkonnu Drummers will process to the N.C. Museum of History to open the 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration. (Photo: N.C. Museum of History)

Learn about African American life from individuals and groups, such as: ● B. Bernetiae Reed, showing excerpts of her film “Thomas Jefferson’s Slaves,” based on her book The Slave Families of Thomas Jefferson, a two-volume genealogical study documenting the lives of 619 enslaved individuals at Monticello; ● Bill Wilkerson, one of the first black

Billingsley storytellers, including: ●ReShonda Tate Billingsley, national best-selling author of more than 35 books, who will participate in a panel discussion on publishing; ● Damon Tweedy, author of Black Man in a White Coat: A Doctor’s Reflections on Race and Medicine, during a panel discussion on civil rights; ● Jaki Shelton Green, one of the inaugural N.C. Piedmont Laureates; ● Patrik Henry Bass, editorial projects director of Essence magazine; ● Carole Boston Weatherford, acclaimed author of children’s books; and ● Storytellers from the N.C. Association of Black Storytellers. Craft and arts traditions Watch artists at work: ● Beading by Elizabeth Constant Lewis and fabric art by Kimberly Cartwright; ● Performances by puppet maker Jeghetto and by MopTopShop characters; and ● Quilting with the Ebony Raleigh Area Group Stitchers and the African American Quilt Circle.

Quilt with the Ebony Raleigh Area Group Stitchers and the African American Quilt Circle. (Photo: N.C. Museum of History)

Food and health Learn about cooking and healthy living

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Chef Jerome cooking demonstration How to Feed Your Southerner; ●Jerome Brown, known as Chef Rome and “Personal Chef to the Stars,” discussing his book Eat Like a Celebrity: Southern Cuisine With a Gourmet Twist; ● Bridgette Lacy, author of Sunday Dinner, highlighting southern cooking; and ● Rhonda Muhammad, featuring cooking demonstrations of traditional foods. Education and heritage Learn from individuals from historic sites, organizations and more: ● Community members will share firsthand accounts during the session Advocates for Change: N.C. Student Interns and Community Organizers of the 1960s; ● Panelists Cash Michaels, Paul Jervay and Kenneth Edmonds will discuss the impact of African American newspapers on the Civil Rights movement; ● Rebecca Hyman will give a presentation on researching African American ancestors; and ● Pope House Museum staff will highlight Dr. M.T. Pope and lead an activity in making a doctor’s headlamp. The 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration is sponsored, in part, by the N.C. African American Heritage Commission; PNC; the City of Raleigh, based on recommendation of the Raleigh Arts Commission; the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, with funds from the United Arts Campaign; N.C. Writers’ Network; and the Museum of History Associates. Mark your calendar for this educational and funfilled festival at the N.C. Museum of History. For information about the N.C. Museum of History, a Smithsonian-affiliated museum, call 919-8077900.

NEWS BRIEFS

COP WHO FATALLY SHOT UNARMED BLACK MAN RESIGNS, RECEIVES $113,000 IN BACK PAY According to the Charlotte Observer, the city has now reached a six figure settlement with Kerrick for back pay and other expenses: The city’s total payout is $179,989.59. Kerrick will receive nearly $113,000 in back pay. An additional $16,000 goes to Social Security and Kerrick’s retirement, according to a statement from the city. And the city will pay $50,630.80 to the attorney who represented Kerrick in a civil suit brought by Ferrell’s family. “The city will not pay any legal expenses for Kerrick’s criminal defense,” city officials said in a news release. “This agreement, which contains no admission of fault or liability, includes a release of all potential legal claims.” Randall Kerrick CHARLOTTE, NC - The Charlotte, North Carolina police officer who fatally shot a black man who’d gone looking for help after a car accident is set to receive a large sum of money. Randall Kerrick gunned down former college football player Jonathan Ferrell, who was not armed, in 2013. The incident was precipitated by a homeowner who called 911 when Ferrell began knocking on her door. The case went before two grand juries before prosecutors could secure an indictment, but eventually Kerrick faced trial on voluntary manslaughter charges. In August the jury deadlocked 8-4 in favor of acquittal. The judge declared a mistrial and shortly thereafter, prosecutors announced that they would not seek a new trial.

In May, the city settled with Ferrell’s family for $2.25 million. Georgia Ferrell, the dead man’s mother, said Kerrick should not have been compensated for killing her son. “I know he doesn’t deserve it, but I can’t do anything about it. Let them go ahead and pay him.” Kerrick received the settlement even though CMPD Capt. Mike Campagna, the former head of the police training academy, testified during trial that Kerrick violated CMPD policies and his training by shooting Ferrell. “Captain Campagna, was shooting Jonathan consistent with law enforcement training and CMPD policy?” asked the prosecutor. “It was not,” Campagna said.

Ferrell said her family and their attorneys still hope that federal charges will be brought in the case. “We’re still fighting. We’re still praying,” she said from her home in Tallahassee, Fla. “We want to go higher because we know we did not get a fair trial.” In a statement, Kerrick’s attorney, George Laughrun, said his client never did anything wrong. “As we have stated from the outset of this case, Kerrick’s actions on September 14, 2013, were justified under CMPD policy and North Carolina law,” Laughrun said. “Our belief was confirmed by the majority of the jurors during his criminal trial. It is also evident in the Attorney General Roy Cooper’s decision not to retry the criminal case. Wes Kerrick and his family look forward to new endeavors and are eager to place this tragic chapter of their lives behind them.” Kerrick testified that he was fearing for his life when he gunned down Ferrell. “He was going to attack me. He was going to assault me. He was going to take my gun from me,” Kerrick testified. Kerrick added that Ferrell wasn’t fazed

Jonathan Ferrell by the gunshots. “I thought I was going to die because I could do nothing that would stop him,” Kerrick said. Jibril Hough, a local activist who has led demonstrations against the department and called the fatal shooting an excessive use of force, said the settlement was a slap in the face. “Not only is he getting away with murder, but now they’re paying him for it,” Hough said. “It’s bad enough that he can’t get any type of retrial, they’re justifying what he did to Jonathan Ferrell by paying him.”

DURHAM-CHAPEL HILL AND RALEIGH-CARY AMONG TOP METROS FOR BLACK ENTREPRENEURS The Durham-Chapel Hill metro is the ninth best place in the U.S. for black entrepreneurs and Raleigh-Cary is No. 11, according to a new report by research website GoodCall. The rankings are based on the number of black-owned businesses per 1,000 residents, the percentage of black residents who have attained a bachelor’s degree or higher, unemployment rate and year-over-year change in GDP. Greensboro-High Point is No. 55, and no other North Carolina metros are among the top 100.

Here are the top 10 places for black entrepreneurs: 1. Washington, D.C. 2. Houston, Texas 3. Dallas, Texas 4. Baton Rouge, Louisiana 5. Hood River, Oregon 6. Austin, Texas 7. Manhattan, Kansas 8. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 9. Durham-Chapel Hill 10. New York-Newark, New York/New Jersey

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A CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE OF

Dr. Sharon Œlliott-Bynum January 5, 1957 - January 3, 2016 Dr. Sharon Elliott-Bynum was born on January 5, 1957 in Durham, NC to the late Joe and Estelle Elliott. Dr. Elliott- Bynum was a resplendent model of a trailblazer who has served our community working as a professional nurse, an educator, consultant, researcher and administrator. She graduated from Northern High School and was an activist during the days of desegregation. She began her nursing career at the age of 16. She received post-secondary education in Nursing, Counseling and Theology including degrees in nursing from Durham Technical Institute, Watts School of Nursing, and North Carolina Central University. She also received a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and a PhD degree in Theology from Victory International College. For the past 20 years, she dedicated

her life to helping the underservedsetting a standard for service, responsibility and unconditional love for humankind. In 1995, Dr. ElliottBynum and her sister, the late Patricia Riley Amaechi co-founded Healing with CAARE, Inc. This power team talked about what they could do and what their responsibilities were to disenfranchised individuals to help them figure out how to improve their health and navigate the system to get help. Together this sister team worked progressively to expand the physical facilities for CAARE and to develop a broad range of healthcare services. In 2009, Dr. Elliott-Bynum inherited full responsibility as Executive Director of CAARE, Inc. After the passing of her sister, Pat Riley Amaechi. She worked tirelessly to improve her community, building on her passion

for and commitment to her career in nursing. She worked to foster a culture of service by developing opportunities to create community supportive safety nets of care inclusive of a holistic approach to life, which is physical, social, psychological and spiritual. She addressed the social determinants of health to effectively improve the lives of underserved and underrepresented individuals. Dr. Elliott- Bynum had a long history of attracting students, volunteers, healthcare providers, and professionals from other diverse sectors to join in permission to help people in need. With more than 30 years of professional experiences, Dr. Sharon Elliott- Bynum developed the expertise, leadership skills and commitment to direct an innovative community based healthcare organization. Dr. Elliott- Bynum has been a faithful

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member of Faith Assembly Christian Center since 1994. She remained a faithful member as long as her health permitted. She served as a praise dancer, with the health and wellness ministry, and the Pastor’s Aide Committee. Dr. Sharon Elliott- Bynum’s legacy of love, devotion, and support will be forever cherished by her daughter, Ebony Elliott-Covington and son, Damien Elliott-Bynum; grandson, Ahmad Richardson; three brothers, Joe Elliott, the late Reginald Elliott, and Hiram Taborn (Tameka) of Durham; three sisters, Carolyn Hinton of Hillsborough, Addie Elliott Mann (Steven) and the late Patricia Riley Amaechi of Durham; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins; staff, friends, and clients who she loved dearly.

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STUDENTS AWARDED KINDLE FIRE TABLETS DURHAM, NC - Local high school and college students received Kindle Fire HD 6s from Tablets for Tots through the Lawrence and Artelia Scholarship Fund (L&APSF) this fall. Technology for Tots is a private charity funded and operated by Dr. Randy Lee, Esq. and Dr. Kaja Heater of Raleigh, who seek to enhance access to technology for K-12 students. The L&APSF awards scholarships to meritorious students at Bennett College, Livingstone College, and NCCU. Pictured are students and the benefactors: 1st Row: Alexia Crutchfield (Riverside), Khenedi Daniels (Northern), Asheley Taylor (Bennett), Katia Hughes (Durham Tech Middle College), Ziah Lettice Starkey (Jordan), Miles Moses (Southern). 2nd Row: Ti-Vianna Webster (NCCU Early College), Abijah Gattis (DSA), Sumre Freshwater (CMA). 3rd Row: Nicholas Campbell (Hillside), William Boler (NCCU), ZaQuan Hunter (NCCU), Garysson Lindsey (Jordan). Stilwyn Perry Brown (L&APSF), Pamela Perry (L&APSF). 4th Row: Dr. Joyce Perry Edwards (L&APSF), Dr. Randy Lee, Esq., Dr. Kaja Heater, Jemma Boler (L&APSF), Patricia Walker (L&APSF), Artelia M. Perry (Namesake, L&APSF), Dr. Tara Fikes (L&APSF), Alexander S. Perry, Esq. (L&APSF). Not pictured: Sanigea Ainsley (Livingstone College); Martin Hernandez Morrieta (Hillside New Tech). (Submitted Photo)

NCCU TEAMS WITH VANCE-GRANVILLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO LAUNCH EAGLE VOYAGE CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROGRAM campus.

Dr. Johnson O. Akinleye (l), provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs of North Carolina Central University, and Dr. Stelfanie Williams, president of Vance-Granville Community College, formally sign an agreement outlining the “Eagle Voyage” partnership between their respective institutions, at a ceremony held in the VGCC Civic Center on Dec. 2. (VGCC photo) HENDERSON, NC – The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Department of Criminal Justice and Vance-Granville Community College

(VGCC) signed an agreement Dec. 2nd launching Eagle Voyage, a new program offering a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice on the VGCC

Representatives of the college and the university held a signing ceremony in the Civic Center on the community college’s Main Campus in Vance County, where VGCC will provide classroom space and technology support and NCCU will provide a two-year course of study leading to a bachelor’s degree for students holding an associate degree in Criminal Justice from VGCC. Not only will Eagle Voyage represent the first bachelor’s degree program available at VGCC facilities, it will also mark the first time in which a full-time NCCU academic coordinator will be based on a community college campus to coach, advise and assist students working toward their four-year degrees. With credits transferring from the associate’s degree, students will complete the accelerated program over the course of nine, eight-week mini-sessions and one summer at VGCC. NCCU will assist with recruitment of students for each annual cohort.

Courses will be taught in a hybrid format consisting of a one day per week onsite session at VGCC’s Main Campus, with additional work completed online via Blackboard, a Learning Management System. Students enrolled in the B.S. program in Criminal Justice at Vance-Granville Community College will be encouraged to join student organizations at NCCU and take advantage of other university resources such as access to the James E. Shepard Library and other NCCU online services. Students also will have learning opportunities outside the classroom involving real-world experiences and programs to promote public safety. Upon completion of the degree, students will be qualified to work in public or private criminal justice agencies and similar organizations. For more information, please visit NCCU online at www.nccu.edu/criminaljustice or contact William Clements at Vance-Granville Community College at clementsw@vgcc.edu or 252-7383242.

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DURHAM CENTER FOR SENIOR LIFE HOSTS 2015 LEGACY AWARDS BREAKFAST DURHAM, NC - The Durham Center for Senior Life (DCSL) hosted its Fifth Annual Legacy Awards Breakfast in October 2015. Honored were Henry M. “Mickey” Michaux, Jr., Carmelita Karhoff, Dillard Teer and Rosalyn Pettyford, highly dedicated individuals who have made a positive and enduring impact on the community and the lives of older adults in Durham. With support from sponsors and attendance of over 180 people, the event raised more than $30,000 for the DCSL and its work to help enhance the lives of seniors. (Submitted photos)

2015 Legacy Award Honorees (l to r): Carmelita Karhoff, Dillard Teer, Henry M. “Mickey” Michaux, Jr. and Rosalyn Pettyford.

DCSL Executive Director, Cathy Stallcup, introduces James Saunders (DCSL participant) and Kamilah Carter (caregiver of DCSL participant), who shared personal experiences about the Durham Center for Senior Life.

DCSL Director of Programs, Liz Lahti and DCSL Director of Administration, Tonya Johnson.

Dr. John Beyer, DCSL Board President, welcomed over 180 guests at the Legacy Awards Breakfast held in the Cotton Room at Golden Belt.

DCSL Volunteers and Staff (l to r): Olga Smith, Patricia Bynum, Laurie McNeil, Barbara Algood, Gloria Evans, Emoni’ Battle and Beatrice Deas

The Gospel Jubilators, Durham’s own legendary all-male, a cappella vocal group, uplifted the room with song.

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COMMUNITY MEMBER GIVES THANKSGIVING DINNER TO BOYS & GIRLS CLUB DURHAM, NC – On November 23, 2015, Durham community member Victor Gatling (in black and orange striped sweater) provided a warm Thanksgiving meal to 150 children and staff at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Durham. Gatling not only brought the food, but he and his friends (his young son, a police officer, a pastor, and a family of four) helped serve the meal. This is the second year in a row Gatling has hosted the Thanksgiving dinner. “For some of the kids, this might be their only real Thanksgiving meal,” said Gatling. And he’s right. The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Durham serves children from all different backgrounds, but some of the children come from unstable environments and most likely won’t receive the traditional Thanksgiving meal that Mr. Gatling was able to offer. The children were served hot turkey & gravy, dressing, green beans, macaroni & cheese, a hot roll,

Children in line and a brownie. The mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Durham is to inspire and

Young children eating enable all young people, particularly those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring,

and responsible citizens. (Submitted Photos)

AUTHOR REV. GEORGE GREEN AND HIS BOOK “EVERYTHING GOD” OXFORD, NC - Rev. George Green knew God before he knew church. His mother’s home teachings laid the firm foundation of an unchanging GREEN quest to know Christ that has led him from a young boy lying awake awed by God’s mystery to answering the call 12 years ago to lead his home congregation as pastor of New Light Baptist Church in Oxford, NC. Green, 53, spreads his knowledge beyond the pulpit in his thought-provoking freshman book, Everything God. Published in July of this year, Everything God offers a devotional, educational and inspirational orchestra seat to witness God’s perfect execution of His plan for believers, His prime creation, to acknowledge, accept and ascend into

His divine purpose for our lives. Long before he remembers going to church, Green recalls his mother, Gladys, “standing us in a chair at the kitchen table, by oil lamp, reading stories of the Bible to us. She would hold our fingers so we could follow the words. The stories so fascinated me, I would lie in bed at night and just think about God. It would get to a point where I couldn’t comprehend; I couldn’t figure Him out. It would get so overwhelming, I would cry. The idea of God was so fantastic I wanted to know the truth.” Green’s spiritual journey for answers continued during a stint in U. S. Air Force with “an episode with God” that fueled in him a “spirit of discernment” that crossed his paths with others whose divine insight inspired him to relinquish control and abandon his own plan in favor of God’s plan. “I saw what being a Christian was supposed to do; guys talking about God like they talk about sports. What we did didn’t define us; who we were defined what we did. It’s about the power of realizing who we are by simply being who we are.” Although Green authors a blog about God’s plan for us and contemporary challenges of being a Christian, Everything God flowed from his pen unexpectedly - without outline or

notes - as he sat down to ponder the unsettling contradiction: “My understanding of God very early didn’t match what I saw from Christians. The Bible talks about the impact we, as Christians, are supposed to have in the world and the victory we’re supposed to be living in. In my quest to understand more about God, I wanted to know how we got off track and why things are the way they are instead of what God intended.” “We have grown to define everything from our perspective and not see things from God’s purpose and design; God’s plan. What we have done is institutionalized what it means to be a believer into a religion as opposed to into the reality of how we exist. We are very good at practicing Christianity, but we fall short in understanding what it means to be God’s people.” Green wrote Everything God for “anyone who wants to know God beyond the practice of religion to understand what being Christian is about. From a religious point of view, we have allowed Christianity to become this weight people have to carry to prove themselves worthy. My hope is that the book helps people understand themselves as an intentional creation by God who he wants to have a relationship with. He matters. He has a purpose for

everything.” Reviews of the Everything God reveal readers inspired to seek a deeper relationship with God and His plan in their lives. “Pastor George E. Green Jr.’s book presentation “Everything God” is a scholarly and spiritual formative work for theologians, pastors, lay leaders and church mothers who want insight into the very nature of God.” Tolokun Omokunde, DMin Professor Theology and Homiletics “This book is well written and beautifully designed. It is thought provoking and perfect for those who desire to know God in a more meaningful and intimate way. I highly recommend it!” Dee Smith, Durham NC “Everything God” to be a prime example of how God will speak to man like He spoke to John the Apostle on the isle of Patmos and say “What thou seest, write in a book” (Revelation 1:11b) Pastor Willie Darby, Penn Ave. Baptist Church &Moderator, CLMBA To learn more about Rev. Green, read his blog and to get your copy of Everything God, visit the website www.EverythingGod.net.

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Briefly LARRY RENI THOMAS PRESENTED NATIONAL JAZZ AWARD

LOUISVILLE, KY - The Meade Legacy Society in conjunction with the African-American Jazz Caucus conferred the 5th Annual Donald Meade Legacy Jazz Griot Award to Larry Reni Thomas on January 8, 2016 at the Seventh Annual Jazz Education Network Conference, Louisville, Kentucky, for his numerous and invaluable contributions to jazz for almost forty years— as a radio announcer, producer, writer/author, and staunch supporter and advocate of jazz music, jazz studies and jazz artists. Thomas, a Chapel Hill, North Carolina-based, Wilmington, North Carolina native, has worked at seven radio stations, including WXYC-FM (Chapel Hill, NC), WHQR-FM (Wilmington, NC), WNCU-FM (Durham, NC), WCOM-FM (Chapel Hill-Carrboro, NC), and has published three books. He is also a contributor to Jazzcormer.com, allaboutjazz.com, ejazz news.com, and jazztimes.com. In addition, he has been a Downbeat Magazine jazz critic member since 2012, a lecturer on the history of the North Carolina jazz connection since 2007. In 2014, he was named a “Jazz Hero” by The Jazz Journalists Association.

LESLEIGH MAUSI NAMED DPS ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

DURHAM, NC – Lesleigh Mausi, Jordan High School Assistant Principal, has been named Durham Public Schools (DPS) Assistant Principal of the Year, announced DPS Superintendent Bert L’Homme. During her 20-year span of educational expertise, Principal Lesleigh C. Mausi, M.Ed. has proven herself to be a proven Instructional pioneer and champion of achievement, dedicated to motivating the teacher mindset to implement innovative change for students. Mausi spent 14 of her 20 years in education with Detroit Public Schools, before joining DPS as a Language Arts teacher at Githens Middle School. After three years at Githens, Mausi was named assistant principal at Jordan High School. Mausi received her B.A. in Communications and English from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and her M.Ed. in Education Leadership from Wayne State University in Detroit. When asked about what makes Mausi such a great choice for Assistant Principal of the Year, Jordan Principal Kerry Chisnall said, “Mrs. Mausi is firm, but respectful and has a great sense of humor too. On a campus with many leaders, Mrs. Mausi’s management of discipline and instructional leadership is greatly appreciated by all Falcons. Those characteristics enable her to be an effective leader respected by students and colleagues.”

NC NAACP TO HONOR REP. HENRY “MICKEY” MICHAUX AT 32ND ANNUAL HUMANITARIAN BANQUET RALEIGH, NC – Originally scheduled for Saturday, January 23rd and rescheduled for Saturday February 27, 2016 due to severe weather forecasts, members of the North Carolina NAACP State Conference of branches will convene on Raleigh for the Annual Winter Training

Session. This one day event, held at Abundant Life Christian Church (4400 Old Poole Rd), will gather membership and leadership from the nearly 100 branches of the conference to receive training for the year ahead. This year’s session will equip local branches to participate in the “Our Time, Our Vote” GOTV Campaign launched at the end of 2015. The training day will

include a luncheon, with invited keynote speaker Dr. Eddie S. Glaude Jr. and will conclude with the 32nd Annual NC NAACP Humanitarian Banquet, where the Honorable Rep. Henry M. “Mickey” Michaux will receive his distinction as the “Humanitarian of the Year”. More information about the Winter Training Session and Humanitarian Banquet, visit www.naacpnc.org .

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VGCC EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM PUTS A LOCAL FOCUS ON BLACK HISTORY MONTH HENDERSON, NC - To celebrate Black History Month, Vance-Granville Community College will hold an enlightening program focusing on local history. The program, entitled “Honoring Our Past, Understanding Our Present & Shaping Our Future,” is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 11, at 10 am, in the Civic Center on the college’s Main Campus in Vance County. The public is invited, as are all students, faculty and staff. Guest speakers from the area will make remarks during the program. They include author Bessye McGhee and artist Sallyann Marable Hobson, both from Granville County, as well as local historian George T. “Tem” Blackburn of Henderson. McGhee, a retired educator and Oxford native, has published a book, “Our Story: the African American Presence in Granville County,” with assistance and illustrations from Hobson, a retired medical graphic artist and U.S. Naval Reserve veteran. Blackburn is a leader in the Vance County Historical Society and an attorney. The program will also include inspirational music performed by a choir of students from VGCC’s South Campus in Granville County. “We want to extend a special invitation to the people of Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties to come and discover more about their own history,” said Helen Bradby of the VGCC Admissions office, who has helped organize the event. In case of inclement weather, the event will be scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 18, at 10 am. For more information, call Helen Bradby at (252) 738-3383 or bradbyh@vgcc.edu.

WOMEN RUNNING FOR PUBLIC OFFICE FORUM CHAPEL HILL, NC - The purpose of this non-partisan program is to inspire, inform and encourage women to have a stronger presence in the public policy making venues of our communities, our state and indeed, our country. Moreover, for those women who already have a desire or have made the decision to seek a public office, it is envisioned that this program will equip them with essential knowledge and requirements to move forward, successfully. Panelists include: Valerie P. Foushee, NC Senate, District 23: Chatham and Orange Counties Lydia Lavelle, Mayor, Town of Carrboro Renee Price, Orange County Board of Commissioners, District 2 Annetta Streater, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education,Vice Chair Erica Smith-Ingram, NC Senate, District 3: Bertie, Chowan, Edgecombe, Hertford, Northampton, Martin, Tyrrell and Washington Counties Bobbie Richardson, NC House of Representatives, District 7: Franklin and Nash Counties Free to the Public.This public event of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Area Alumnae Chapter ofDelta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is in collaboration with the Kappa Omicron Chapter (UNC-Chapel Hill) and the Triangle Park Chapter of The Links, Inc.

SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | January 2016 | www.spectacularmag.com

STATEWIDE ORGANIZATION ANNOUNCES YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL Building the Next Generation of Social Justice Thought Leaders

(Top l to r): Kerry Macklin, Maggie O’Daniel, Dominique Cassamajor, Cameron Cooper and Kristina Williams; (Bottom l to r): Mikaili McNeil, Marissa Sandoval, Cassandra, Loredo-Vizozo, De”Nasia Daniels , Tomi Wilder and Zyon Devaughn. (Not photographed: Tamia Sanders and Donovan Summers) RALEIGH, NC - The North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NCCASA), a nonprofit organization that serves as the sole statewide expertise and alliance working to end sexual assault through education, advocacy and legislation, recently selected twelve (12) youth to serve on the Young Advocates Institute Advisory Council. Members of the Young Advocates Institute Advisory Council, who represent North Carolina’s rich diversity, will spend the next year building their leadership and social justice engagement capacity. In addition, the youth will create the content and activities for the 2016 Young Advocates Institute. Launched in 2012, the Young Advocates Institute is a social justice summer camp that empowers and trains 200 youth, ages 13-17, from across North Carolina during a weekend of prevention/intervention education, advocacy and leadership development seminars. The purpose of the Young Advocates Institute is to give youth a voice, the opportunity to share their experiences regarding social justice issues, and to help them become an integral part of the solutions. “We are so excited about the Young Advocates Institute Advisory Council. The students are nothing shy of brilliant and truly the next generation of social justice ambassadors,” said Tracy Wright, NCCASA’s Project Lead for the Young Advocates Institute. Wright added, “2016 is the Institute’s 5th year anniversary and I can’t think of a better way to start the celebration than with the announcement of the Advisory Council members.” The 2016 Young Advocates Institute Advisory Council Members: • Tommi Wilder, Moore Square Museums Magnet Middle School • Zyon DeVaughn, Wake Early College • Dominique Jayver Cassamajor, Hillside High School • Maggie O’Daniel, North Carolina School of Science and Math • Cameron Cooper, Rolesville High School • Mikaili A. McNeil, Needham Broughton High School • Cassandra Loredo Vizozo, Northern High School • Donovan Steele Summers, East Garner Magnet Middle School • Marissa Ilana Sandoval,Voyager Academy High School • Kerry Macklin, Hillside High School • De’Nasia Daniels, Southeast Raleigh High School

• Kristina Williams, Riverside High School • Tamia Sanders, Hillside High School To date, the Young Advocates Institute has trained over 1,000 youth and adults from across North Carolina, neighboring Virginia and as far as Indiana. Participants of the Institute have increased their understanding of sexual assault, human trafficking, and skill-set development by 80%. For more information about the NCCASA and the Young Advocates Institute, visit www.nccasa.org .

www.spectacularmag.com | January 2016 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE

SPORTS Spectacular Magazine Sports Columnist Lawrence Davis is taking the month off in preparation for his additional duties as Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Raleigh’s Sanderson High School. He will return next month. Below is a News & Observer article that ran on November 30, 2015 about Davis. Keep up with Davis and all the latest sports news @SpecMagSports.

BALLIN’ OUT

By Lawrence “King Law” Davis

~ Phyllis Coley, Publisher

YOUNG SANDERSON LACROSSE COACH LAWRENCE DAVIS WANTS TO USE HIS MISTAKES TO GUIDE PLAYERS By Jessika Morgan jmorgan@newsobserver.com

my mistakes.” Early roots

RALEIGH, NC - Lawrence Davis’ college lacrosse career was short-lived.

Davis, a former midfielder, said he discovered lacrosse by accident. He fell asleep with the television on as a child, and when he woke up, a curious sport drew his attention.

After graduating from Jordan High School in Durham in 2011, Davis turned down a scholarship offer from Catawba College and decided to walk on at High Point University. He was a team manager hoping to work his way up to play.

“I couldn’t find the remote, and I couldn’t change it,” he said. “I wound up watching the whole game.”

Davis, who was recently hired as Sanderson High School’s new head lacrosse coach, wanted to prove himself as a player, but he ran into trouble.

He said he told his friends at school the following Monday and eventually joined a winter lacrosse league. Davis found the sport provided numerous travel opportunities and, most significantly for him as a child, relieved stress. He said he had a rocky relationship with his father, who died in October.

He said a night out with friends led to a physical altercation, and he was dismissed from his role with the High Point lacrosse team. “It was like a bad decision for my playing career,” said Davis, 22. “However, the lessons I learned, my game improved so much while I was there. The way I was doing things weren’t necessarily correct. Coach Jon Torpey really tweaked the way I did things. Those small steps helped so much. I didn’t get a chance to put that into play, and that’s why I guess I have the passion to coach.”

I never had to think about any outside problems (when I played lacrosse). If I had anything going on with family issues or my dad was making me mad, it’s whatever. I knew 2:30 was going to come and I’ll have a chance to play lacrosse. Sanderson lacrosse coach Lawrence Davis “My dad was on drugs and so his addiction got really bad from the time that I was 8 to 11,” Davis said. “I didn’t really talk to him much because he was out on the street. We would butt heads.”

Davis, who has been an assistant for Sanderson lacrosse since the team formed in May 2014, will take over for Dexter Tillett. He said he wanted to stay connected to the sport he’s played since he was 9 by teaching others from what became a career-ending error. To him, there was no better opportunity than as a head coach of a high school program. “I never got a chance to actually play (in college), but the stuff that I learned and the experience that I had with

Davis said their relationship went up and down through his senior year, especially after his father missed his graduation. Lawrence Davis on the sideline of a Sanderson lacrosse game last season as an assistant coach. He was recently hired to take over the program. (Photo: Olen C. Kelley III) those guys was so touching,” said Davis, who transferred to Guilford Technical Community College before taking a

semester off in the spring of 2013. “I learned so much that I felt like it was my duty to teach somebody else from

SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | January 2016 | www.spectacularmag.com

When Davis left High Point, the pair grew closer and was “on the same page,” he said. “I always want to see the best out of SPORTS CONTINUES ON PAGE 29

SPORTS CONTINUES people,” Davis said. “I knew that wasn’t him, so I wanted to still work with him. The Golden Rule is treat people how you want to be treated, and I felt like he did that. He honestly was a good person. Even through all of his medicine, he would teach me valuable lessons. I learned a lot from my dad. He was my rock, because even through all of that, he came through on the other side.” Davis said his experiences will fuel his coaching philosophy. Making adjustments Through the loss of his father and his potential spot on a college lacrosse roster, Davis has learned patience. He became a sports writer for Durham’s Spectacular Magazine to keep his mind active. He will have to alter his schedule when official lacrosse practice opens in February, but he likes a busy routine. Because of his age, he said the lack of interest from some of the older players in the program may create challenges. He said a majority of underclassmen attended a recent interest meeting. “It’s my goal to change the culture of the program, because we haven’t done things too seriously,” Davis said. “I think the hard change is going to be difficult for some guys, but some guys are on board. I just feel like we’re in a conference that features a lot of schools that have had success in the past, teams that have won the conference in the past, teams that have had teams for 15-plus years. It’s difficult for us.” Going back to his short days at High Point, Davis says he can offer a lot. He can teach the players the necessity of fundamentals and patience. Davis wants to take it one step at a time under his leadership. “When I was playing, I was too lazy and too cocky. I thought I didn’t have to do much. I screwed around and I just really did things the wrong way,” Davis said. “I also had the opportunity to do something good, and I really messed it up. I made some really stupid decisions. I’m trying to take it step by step to really do things the right way. “Take time to do things the right way, even if it takes a little longer.” (Reprint permission granted)

www.spectacularmag.com | January 2016 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE

LIFESTYLES

UNC-CHAPEL HILL’S STONE CENTER HOSTS CELEBRATED ARTIST STEFANIE JACKSON FOR SPRING EXHIBITION technique she uses to disrupt and then resituate the viewer’s visual center of balance. Jackson grounds her explorations in the real, lived experiences of the landscapes and individuals she depicts. Her work often references the problems of cities where she has resided in the past, including the plight of public housing in New Orleans, the decaying urban communities of Detroit and the troubled French colonial history of New Orleans. Though the unvarnished, harsh truths expressed through her work have sometimes unsettled audiences used to more hopeful ideas in art. Jackson has responded that, “I just paint life, and sometimes life is difficult.” Jackson received her BFA from Parsons School of Design in 1979 and her MFA from Cornell University in 1988.

Stefanie Jackson CHAPEL HILL, NC – The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Sonja Haynes Stone Center will feature noted artist Stefanie Jackson’s exhibition, “La Sombra y el Espiritu IV: Figurative Visions and Collective Histories - The Work of Stefanie Jackson,” February 11 – May 13 at the Center’s Robert and Sallie Brown Gallery and Museum. Jackson, a professor of drawing and painting at the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia, is one of the most important African American contemporary figurative artists exploring contemporary social and political events. She has used her oil paintings, lithographs, drawings and etchings to reexamine important historical moments in AfricanAmerican and U.S. history such as the Atlanta race riots and the Hurricane Katrina disaster in New Orleans.

Noted for its figurative social expressionism that shapes complex, visual narratives, Jackson’s work directly challenges viewers to engage by repositioning everyday elements of life that are viewed as static, a

An opening reception for the exhibition, featuring an artist talk by Jackson, will take place on Feb. 11 at 7 pm. “La Sombra y el Espiritu IV: Figurative Visions and Collective Histories - The Work of Stefanie Jackson” will be on display through May 13. The gallery is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. or by appointment. For information on the exhibition call 919-9629001 or visit www.stonecenter.unc.edu.

Medicine Show by Stefanie Jackson

SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | January 2016 | www.spectacularmag.com

John Hope Franklin Humanities Institute 2016 Distinguishedlecture REFLECTIONS ON CHARLESTON: A CONVERSATION ON FAITH AND RACE DURHAM, NC Mother Emanuel AME, a southern church rich in African-American history, became the scene of an unthinkable act -- when a gunman fueled by hatred took the lives of nine worshippers at a Bible study, fracturing the entire nation along racial divides. Join the John Hope Franklin Humanities Institute on Tuesday February 9th at 7 pm for its 2016 Distinguished Lecture, Reflections on Charleston: A Conversation on Faith & Race as we discuss the tragedy that unfolded with an eye towards healing and unity. The conversation will take place in Page Auditorium on the campus of Duke University. Jennifer Pinckney, widow of the pastor Rev. Clementa C. Pinckney will engage in conversation towards understanding the senseless violence that claimed her husband’s life. She will be joined by two of Pinckney’s closest friends, Rev. Chris Vaughn and Duke

Divinity School alumnus Rev. Kylon Middleton, Ph.D., who have both been instrumental in the establishment of the charitable organization, The Honorable Reverend Clementa C. Pinckney Foundation. The discussion will be moderated by the Rev. Eboni Marshall Turman, Ph.D. of the Duke Divinity School’s Office of Black Church Studies. This program is sponsored by the Franklin Humanities Institute (FHI) and the Pauli Murray Project at the Duke Human Rights Center at FHI. Admission is free with tickets. Tickets are available at Duke University Box Office, on-line at www.tickets.duke.edu or by calling 919-668-7961. Per ticket service charge of $1.50 for orders made online or by phone. To avoid service charges, tickets may be reserved inperson at the Duke University Box Office (125 Science Drive, Room 104 of the Bryan University Center, Durham, NC 27708) Monday - Friday, 11 am-6 pm.

WRAL MAKING NETWORK CHANGE TO NBC an NBC affiliate on Feb. 29.

RALEIGH, NC - After a 30-year partnership with CBS, WRAL plans to change its network affiliation at the end of February. WRAL will become

“This was not an easy decision. It came down to the question, ‘What network do we believe is best positioned for the future of local broadcasting?’ It is clear to us that NBC understands the value that local affiliates bring to the entire network relationship,” Jim Goodmon, president

and chief executive of Capitol Broadcasting Co., WRAL’s parent company, said in a statement. “We’re local broadcasters first. As the industry continues to change, we believe this switch to NBC positions us well for the future.” With the NBC affiliation, WRAL becomes home to NBC’s awardwinning news, sports, prime-time and late-night broadcast programming, while continuing its market-leading news and public affairs content. NBC News is one of the outstanding news organizations worldwide. NBC Sports owns many premiere events, including Sunday Night Football and the Olympics, and NBC prime time has been No. 1 for three years in row. The WRAL News and other local

programming will continue to be on Channel 5. “We’ve been a CBS affiliate for more than 30 years. We’ve enjoyed a strong relationship with CBS News over the years,” WRAL-TV Vice President and General Manager Steve Hammel said in a statement. “Change brings opportunity. I have great confidence in our team to establish WRAL-TV as a dominant NBC affiliate.” WRAL-TV first went on the air in 1956 as an NBC affiliate. The station signed on with the up-and-coming ABC Network in 1962. That relationship lasted until 1985, when the station became an affiliate of the CBS Television Network. CBS will shift its Triangle-area affiliate to WNCN.

www.spectacularmag.com | January 2016 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE

HEALTH TIP

EXERCISE FOR ALL AGES

Children and Teenagers Although U.S. health experts recommend that kids engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 60 minutes daily, only one in four actually does so, according to a report released by the Centers of Disease Control. It is important that the community and parents work on improving and encouraging all children and teenagers to participate in physical activities. According to Mary Fox Braithwaite, MD, MSPH, FAAP, Pediatrician at Chapel Hill Pediatrics and Braithwaite Adolescents, PA, “It is much easier to break bad habits and establish long-lasting healthy ones when you do it early on. Parents should encourage their children and teens to participate in physical activity most days of the week.” Physical activity can include running, jumping and climbing for toddlers – and dancing, martial arts, gymnastics, swimming, club/ team sports and much more for older children and teens. Try to turn family time into physical activity time for everyone such as taking walks outside, going for a bike ride, or playing a game of

tag, kickball or basketball. If you don’t have a yard, find parks or playgrounds near your home and plan to go as a family. Also consider joining community centers such as the YMCA. Many children and teens spend a lot of time in front of a TV, computer or tablet/phone screen, which leads to sedentary behavior and limits talk time with family members. Try to limit your child’s total screen time to two hours or less during the weekday. If your child plays video games, consider choosing games and gaming systems that incorporate physical activity, such as Xbox 360 Kinect. For more information about fitness for children or other childhood health questions, talk with your child’s doctor and visit www. healthychildren.org and www. letsmove.gov REMEMBER – To lead a healthy, active life, aim for: • 5 fruits and vegetables a day • 2 hours or less of screen time (TV, computer, video games) per day • 1 hour of physical activity a day, and • 0 almost no sugar-sweetened drinks Adults Let’s face it, exercising is tough. Most of us if given another choice will choose to use our time in another way. Nevertheless, making a conscious decision to increase

physical activity will allow you to reap both physical and mental health benefits. George Brothers, Jr. MD, a retired Rheumatologist/Internist, states, “Doing something, no matter the length of the activity, is better than doing nothing.” For many of us health challenges might limit our choice of activity. For those with arthritis it is better to exercise (within limits set by your physician) the affected joints since muscle deteriorates and strength is lost more rapidly in an arthritic joint. Strengthening the muscles supporting an affected joint might delay the need for a joint replacement. If joint replacement is necessary, it is better to have exercised than not to have exercised. Remember exercise will be part of your rehab! Exercise also has benefits for mental health. In some studies, mild depression can be improved and controlled with regular aerobic exercise. Some studies have shown that regular exercise also improves memory and learning skills by increasing new cell connections in the brain. Exercise helps us to control blood pressure, weight, bone strength, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. In short, exercise no matter how slight, will probably decrease your risk for premature death. • If you have arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, a family history of early heart disease or are over

SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | January 2016 | www.spectacularmag.com

the age of 50 see your health care provider before starting an exercise program. • You may want to consult with physical therapy if you have arthritis since special programs are available for those with joint disease. • Keep it simple. You do not need to invest in an expensive gym membership or buy equipment you do not need. Walk in your neighborhood and take the stairs at work. Don’t always look for the close parking space. Park further away and walk! • Schedule the exercise, mark it on your to do list for the day, it will be harder to ignore or forget. • Start slow. Start by committing to 20 minutes a day 3 days a week and gradually increase to 30 minutes a day 5 days a week. Remember ABC’s: Aim to limit your child’s TV or computer screen time Be active as a family, and Children need 60 minutes of play with moderate to vigorous activity every day Health Tip is a message from Community Health Coalition, Inc. and is written in partnership with Central Carolina Black Nurses’ Council Inc., The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Durham and Vicinity, NC Mutual Life Insurance Company and Duke Regional Hospital.

REMEMBER Healthy People 2020: A Clear Vision to Healthy Living!

SAMANTHA’S INFINITE SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS FOR STYLISH TEXTURED HAIR Currently more and more African-American women with textured (curly) hair are selecting not to relax (permanently straighten) their curl patterns. So, there is a question that I am frequently faced with from guests of the salon, and general acquaintances with textured hair – how can I transform my look for an evening out or get-away weekend hairstyle while remaining chemical free?

BRIANNA

AMBER

Amber’s very short crop top cut was transformed into a modern day twisted pompadour (a hairstyle arranged high from the forehead). This protective style was created by securing twisted Kanekalon® (synthetic-fiber) hair to five ponytails down the center of the head. For sleeping, Amber will use a wrap cap to secure the sides and nape area. For an after five outing, she should lightly spray her do with an Olive oil sheen spray.

The Hair Care Specialist at C’ameleon Infinite Salon Solution can safely provide any guest with the style they desire. Contact us for a consultation today.

Brianna has the very high fashion yet still low maintenance protective style. Her natural hair was cornrowed. Then curly, coiled wefts (hair extensions) were sewn to the cornrows. The results…a beautiful textured tress that looks great wet or dry. Because the extensions were chemically treated with a permanent wave solution to achieve the curls and coils an essential oil (carrot or jojoba) should be used on the hair to keep the curls from drying out. Preparing for the evening events requires a quick shampoo and a leave -in conditioner to define the curls, and you are on your way.

C’ameleon Infinite Salon Solution

1920 East Hwy 54, Suite #220 Durham, NC 27713 Phone: (919) 599-6525 Mention this column and receive a 15% discount on any hair service. Walk-ins welcome.

Samantha Huntley

www.spectacularmag.com | January 2016 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE

ENTERTAINMENT MOVIE INDUSTRY RESPONDS AS SUPPORT FOR OSCAR BOYCOTT GROWS NEW YORK (AP) — Growing calls for a boycott of the Academy Awards over the lack of diversity among this year’s Oscar nominees are forcing stars to choose sides and threatening to throw the movie industry’s biggest night of the year into turmoil.

DID U KNOW?...

Isaacs, the academy’s first African American president, said that “it’s time for big changes” and that she will review membership recruiting to bring about “much-need diversity” in the academy’s ranks. Other stars began weighing in.

‘THE WENDY WILLIAMS SHOW’ RENEWED THROUGH 2019-20

Smith The backlash over the second straight year of all-white acting nominees is also putting heavy pressure on the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences to diversify its overwhelmingly white male membership. The furor grew when the Rev. Al Sharpton said he would lead a campaign encouraging people not to watch the Feb. 28 telecast. On Monday, Spike Lee, this year’s Oscar honoree for lifetime achievement, and Jada Pinkett Smith announced they will boycott the ceremony in protest.

Isaacs Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs, who has led efforts to diversify the academy, responded late Monday evening with a forceful statement saying that those previous measures weren’t enough.

Lee George Clooney, in comments to Variety, said that after earlier progress by the industry, “you feel like we’re moving in the wrong direction.” He noted that movies like “Creed,” ”Straight Outta Compton,” ”Beasts of No Nation” and “Concussion” may have deserved more attention from the academy. “But honestly, there should be more opportunity than that,” Clooney said. “There should be 20 or 30 or 40 films of the quality that people would consider for the Oscars. By the way, we’re talking about African Americans. For Hispanics, it’s even worse. We need to get better at this. We used to be better at it.” A 2012 Los Angeles Times study found that the academy was 94 percent white and 77 percent male. Just how much more Boone Isaacs can do to promote diversity at the academy, where membership is for life, remains to be seen. In November, she launched a five-year initiative to encourage more diversity in Hollywood, called A2020. But Boone Isaacs noted there is some precedent for more drastic steps. In the late ’60s, for example, academy president Gregory Peck tried to inject more youth by stripping many older members no longer working in the industry of the right to vote.

Debmar-Mercury has renewed the nationally syndicated “The Wendy Williams Show” through the 2019-20 television season on the FOX Television Stations. The renewal of the hit show will give the Queen of Dish her ninth, 10th and 11th seasons. During the November sweeps, Wendy finished either No. 1 or 2 in the key demo of women 25-54 in 55% of the U.S. and 20 of the top-25 markets. “Wendy,” which began as a summer test on the FOX stations in 2008 and went into national syndication in fall 2009, recorded first-place finishes during the November 2015 sweeps on the FOX stations in New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Houston, Phoenix, Detroit and Orlando, a streak that also extends to many medium- and smaller-sized markets.

LEBRON JAMES TO CO-PRODUCE, APPEAR IN NEW REALITY SHOW CLEVELAND (AP) — LeBron James will coproduce and appear in a reality TV series called “Cleveland Hustles.” James and his close friend and business partner, Maverick Carter, are producing the series that will debut this summer on CNBC. James also will make some cameo appearances. On the show, James and Carter will give four aspiring local entrepreneurs the chance to realize their own dreams while revitalizing a neighborhood in Cleveland. James and Carter will get assistance from business experts, who will invest in and mentor the James entrepreneurs. The goal is for the four fledgling businesses to create local jobs. It’s the latest entertainment venture for the Cavaliers star. James appeared as himself in Amy Schumer’s comedy “Trainwreck” last summer and recently signed a movie development deal with Warner Bros. James’ SpringHill Entertainment company produces “Survivor’s Remorse” on Starz about a young basketball star, his family and friends and the pressure and excitement of a lucrative career. He also produces a show called “Becoming” on Disney XD.

DID YOU KNOW CONTINUES ON PAGE 35

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DID YOU KNOW CONTINUES

‘RIDE ALONG 2’ FINALLY ON TOP

“Ride Along 2” finally dethroned “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” over the Martin Luther King holiday weekend, taking in $41 million in its four-day debut. That was less than the 2014 original made over the same weekend , but the Kevin Hart-Ice Cube comedy still put an end to the month-long reign of “The Force Awakens.” J.J. Abrams’ blockbuster slid to third with $33 million in its fifth weekend, bringing its record domestic gross to $859 million, according to final studio figures Jan. 19th.

ICE CUBE IS BACK IN BUSINESS IN THE ‘BARBERSHOP: THE NEXT CUT’

It isn’t always the biggest, highest-grossing franchises that stick around forever, some of the modestly successful ones last a while, too. Twelve years have passed since the last time Ice Cube welcomed us to the “Barbershop”, and it’s time to open those doors up again with “Barbershop: The Next Cut”, which introduces a whole new generation ready to cut a few jokes while cutting some hair. Resembling a combination of “Barbershop” and its spinoff, “Beauty Shop”, the series’ third film finds a group of lady hairstylists joining the all-boys’ club. Cube is joined by Cedric the Entertainer, Regina Hall, Anthony Anderson, Eve, JB Smoove, Lamorne Morris, Sean Patrick Thomas, Tyga, Deon Cole, Common, Troy Garity, and Nicki Minaj, but sadly no Queen Latifah. Here’s the official synopsis, which seems to be taking a page from Spike Lee’s “Chi-Raq” in tackling the issue of street violence: It’s been more than 10 years since our last appointment at Calvin’s Barbershop. Calvin (Ice Cube) and his longtime crew, including Eddie (Cedric the Entertainer), are still there, but the shop has undergone some major changes. Most noticeably, our once male-dominated sanctuary is now co-ed. The ladies bring their own flavor, drama and gossip to the shop challenging the fellas at every turn. Despite the good times and camaraderie within the shop, the surrounding community has taken a turn for the worse, forcing Calvin and our crew to come together to not only save the shop, but their neighborhood. Directed by Malcolm D. Lee, “Barbershop: The Next Cut” opens April 15th.

RAPPER MOS DEF’ DISMISSING ALLEGATIONS OF TRYING TO TRAVEL OUT OF SOUTH AFRICA USING AN INVALID PASSPORT

The hip-hop star, also known as Yasiin Bey, was detained on Jan. 14th for allegedly possessing an incorrect travel document when trying to depart from Cape Town International Airport. Department of Home Affairs said Mos Def told authorities that he was carrying a “world passport”, but the official Mos Def told The Associated Press, “There is no such thing”. However, the 42-year-old is now refuting the statements, insisting the passport does exist, and he did no wrong. “From what I’ve read their allegations are wrong,” his representative tells Okayafrica.com. “He attempted to leave the country for a professional commitment and was denied the ability to board an airplane after providing his World Passport. It’s issued by the World Service - in support of the UN Declaration of Human Rights. His understanding is that the South African government has previously accepted the World Passport to enter the country and to provide visas as recently as August.” Bey’s representative explains he uses a World Passport for political reasons. “He considers himself a world citizen and wanted to use his World Passport in support of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights,” the representative says. “Although South Africa did not sign the declaration in 1948 - probably because they were governed by Apartheid at the time - Nelson Mandela believed it was a necessary document for the continued growth of South Africa after the abolishment of Apartheid.” Mos Def has been living in South Africa since May, 2013.

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