JUNE 2015
FULL SCHEDULE OF JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION PERFORMANCES
PERFORMING LIVE
PAGE 19
11TH ANNUAL NC
JUNETEENTH
“AFRICAN AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY”
CELEBRATION
CELEBRATING THE ENDING OF SLAVERY FOR 150 YEARS
1865 - 2015
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IN THIS ISSUE Vol. II, Issue VI
Ballin’ Out Classified/Local Business Commentary Community Health Cover Story Editorial Entertainment Features
Cynthia Jones Juneteenth Performers Nigel Rissi Palmer Rosenwald Schools John Thorpe Christopher Williams Johnny White
From The Publisher’s Desk Health & Beauty Lifestyles News Briefs Out & About Sports Zien
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EDITORIAL
From The Publisher’s Desk... JUNETEENTH: OUR OTHER INDEPENDENCE DAY
Two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, American slavery came to an end and a celebration of freedom was born America’s birthday is fast approaching. But let’s not wait for July 4 to light the fireworks. There is another Independence Day on the horizon. Juneteenth falls on June 19 each year. It is a holiday whose history was hidden for much of the last century. But as the nation now observes the 150th anniversary of the Civil War’s ending, it is a holiday worth recognizing. In essence, Juneteenth marks what is arguably the most significant event in American history after independence itself—the eradication of American slavery. For centuries, slavery was the dark stain on America’s soul, the deep contradiction to the nation’s founding ideals of “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” and “All men are created equal.” When Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, he took a huge step toward erasing that stain. But the full force of his proclamation would not be realized until June 19, 1865—Juneteenth, as it was called by slaves in Texas freed that day. The westernmost of the Confederate states, Texas did not get news of Gen. Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomatox that April until two months after the fact. But they heard once Union Gen. Gordon Granger, a New Yorker and West Point graduate with a distinguished wartime service record, arrived in Galveston Bay with more than 2,000 Union troops. It was on June 19 that he publicly read General Order No. 3, which began: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.” In amazement and disbelief, the 250,000 former slaves in Texas learned that they had been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation, which could not be enforced until the war was over. (It applied only to the states “in rebellion” at the time it was issued.) Shocked, disoriented, most likely fearful of an uncertain future in which they could do as they pleased, the liberated slaves of Texas celebrated. Their moment of jubilee was spontaneous and ecstatic, and began a tradition of marking freedom on Juneteenth.
A grass-roots celebration highlighted by joyous singing, pig roasts, and rodeos, Juneteenth took root in many African-American communities during the late 19th century. But Juneteenth was never accorded official respect or recognition. In the bitterness of the Reconstruction and Jim Crow eras, few states of the former Confederacy had any interest in celebrating emancipation. And as many African-Americans migrated north, especially in the Depression era, Juneteenth became a largely forgotten vestige of the Civil War era. Over the past few decades, however, there has been a movement to revive this celebration of more complete freedom in America. Today, 42 states (including North Carolina) and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth, although most don’t grant it full “holiday” status. A Congressional resolution also underscores the historical significance of “Juneteenth Independence Day.” Before emancipation, America’s slaves and anyone else who prized equality, freedom and liberty knew that the Declaration of Independence only meant equality, freedom, and liberty for some. “What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July?” Frederick Douglass, the abolitionist and escaped slave, asked in his Independence Day oration in 1852. “I answer: a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is constant victim.” This year, let’s remember Juneteenth, the holiday that doesn’t mark a document, a battle, a birthday or a national tragedy, but the fundamental promise of America being more completely realized—the day on which Thomas Jefferson’s rousing rhetoric finally rang true throughout America, for all Americans. (Adapted from www.juneteenth.com/history.htm) TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Phyllis Coley Phyllis Coley CEO/Publisher pcoley@spectacularmag.com
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COMMENTARY IS POWERFUL MEDIA UNFAIRLY EXPLOITING DISCRIMINATION ALLEGATIONS AT NCCU? Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood
mean-heart of Black-phobia.
This will also position these same allegations to be platformed by Black-phobia is the fear mongering which national instigators like FOX News Anytime the filing has historically claimed and in many who are known for exploiting and of a complaint instances violently enforced the notion generating an outpouring of angry with the U.S. that Whites must keep Blacks powerless White support, donations, job offers, Equal Employment to prevent the possibility of a Black and other incentives for those Whites Opportunity uprising or a Black individual “rising” who claim to be poor victims of “reverse Commission (EEOC) to a position of power where he/she is discrimination” or harmed by the becomes headline positioned to discriminate against Whites “handout” of Black favoritism. news in America, the way certain Whites discriminate we should ask against Blacks. If it became headline news each time ourselves - “what women, African Americans, and other is different about According to the news report, “Two people of color made allegations this ‘complaint’ lawyers, Nicholas Sanservino and Saura of “discrimination” or filed “EEOC above the millions Noble, released a copy of their client’s complaints” regarding their daily of ‘complaints of discrimination’ being EEOC complaint on Tuesday June 2,” by encounters with racism, sexism, classism, alleged that we will never hear of?” the next day the headline of the local and other forms of “discrimination,” from Herald-Sun proclaims “Discrimination institutions or corporations managed by The most conspicuous difference is, the claims against NCCU grow.” Several other Caucasians, there would be no room for allegations of “discrimination” from these local news outlets made similar headline other news. particular EEOC complaints are aimed at reports. North Carolina Central University and the These lawyers and the media operatives allegations are being made by Caucasians You cannot blame lawyers for wanting know full well, in a country and state towards an African American chancellor, to win their cases without having where societal biases and institutionalize Debra Saunders-White. to go to court. But when the media racism trample upon the backs of African is being played like a fiddle to an Americans on a daily basis as White By exploiting these particular EEOC audience who largely sees African privilege remains the unofficial law of filings, they help to sound the alarm for Americans as “criminals” whether we the land, they can repetitiously drag the old South who has long used fear and commit a crime or not, it only creates NCCU and this chancellor through the ugly race-baiting tactics to justify their more disadvantages for NCCU and the mud of degradation, embarrassment own discrimination and resuscitate that chancellor. and in other ways serve as the judge,
jury, and sentencing board by punishing the chancellor through the “court” of public opinion even if the allegations are ultimately determined to be invalid. And as they do this, the discrimination and systemic racism which happens against African Americans, women, the poor, and other people of color on a daily basis will continue without the headlines or attention of those seeming to know or care. Therefore, I am concerned and suspicious when certain allegations of “discrimination” are given such a powerful platform and credence compared to countless other wellfounded complaints we will never hear of. Lastly, while African Americans will seldom receive justice within the court systems of America, the court of public opinion has historically been the least fair. It is with this knowledge my prayers go up for Chancellor Debra SaundersWhite and the NCCU family. Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AT WHOSE EXPENSE? By Ada Fisher Governor Pat McCrory of North Carolina vetoed the legislation passed to grant Religious Freedom to state employees or those acting on its behalf who were asked to do things in conflict with their religion or religious conscious. Though it is true that there is a move to suppress Christian doctrines which don’t conform to many secular values, letting individuals interpret such mandates at their own discretion and run rough shod over those who in compliance with existing laws chose to act in other ways likewise goes against freedom of their religion. I remember when Howard Johnson’s refused to serve Blacks or my parsonage home was flooded with a litany of distinguished black visitors who could not gain quarters at any sleeping facility
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in the area of Durham, NC or when black clientele were forced to the balcony of movie theaters. To this day I don’t patronize many of these facilities. Those who work for the government or benefit from the government’s largess should not be given the authority to pick and choose who they will serve when those seeking services are operating within the confines of the law. This is a major problem not unlike the times imposed by segregation. As a physician, I remember painfully the anesthesiologist called to help with a female patient who needed a C-section. The nurse anesthetist told her as an unwed mother of two other children, she would put her to sleep only if she agreed to have her tubes tied as she had enough children. Though I might agree with her sentiment on having more children than one can care for, it is not the place of professional health providers to dictate how many babies someone may have in unwed circumstances or otherwise. Women should not have their personal
decisions with their doctors second guessed to use birth control or take RU40 (the morning afterpill which has too many side effects to be given over the counter) by pharmacists or legislators with religious objections to their personal choices and behavior. This is just wrong. The doctor patient relationship operating within the bounds of the law should be sacrosanct to personal health. Under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibitions on “the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, impeding the free exercise of religion, abridging the freedom of speech, . . .” are clear. By the same token when ministers follow the scriptural dictates of their religion advocating prohibiting same sex marriage or acts deemed sinful to them, government should have no right under the First Amendment to say what different religions can say or do under the law such as refuse to perform marriage ceremonies as long as they aren’t using or handling federal funds. The same should go for
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private enterprises that do not take federal funds. If they can withstand the pressure to their bottom line so be it; remember Chick-Fil-A has opposed gay unions and isn’t open on Sundays. It is now a top fast food draw, surpassing McDonalds. In a democratic society of liberty and freedom, people should be free to worship and serve their G-d as they like as long as it doesn’t impinge on others doing the same. Dr. Ada Fisher Dr. Ada M. Fisher is a physician, a former medical director in a Fortune 500 company, previous member of a county board of education, licensed secondary education teacher, author, poet, gifted public speaker and is the NC Republican National Committeewoman. Her book Common Sense Conservative Prescriptions Solutions Good For What Ails Us, Book I is available through amazon.com; contact her at P. O. Box 777; Salisbury, NC 28145; drfisher@ dradamfisher.org.
By Brad Thompson I have often been confronted by those who think that people of color play the race card; while at the same time they raise the banner of white superiority. It amazes me that they fail to see the prejudices that permeate their own conclusions while pointing the fingers at others. Let’s face it; race is not an easy topic to discuss among people of different cultures. People are informed by their own experiences that may lead to faulty and erroneous conclusions about why people act as they do. Things are viewed through prisms and the colors are limited to those seen by the observer. Often this does
PLAYING THE RACE CARD
not reflect the totality. Sometimes only half-baked opinions based on misinformation is all that is left.
It is imperative that this dialogue begin with listening. An alternate point of view can only be understood if there is a willingness to hear what the other person has to say and not “rush to judgement”. There is much to learn about how others come to a conclusion, sometimes erroneously, if we are open to constructive dialogue. That begins with an exchange of information that helps us establish the facts. Recent examples are the protests and uprisings that have occurred in Baltimore and Ferguson. These examples are used to paint every situation in which a Black person is killed by police as an excuse for “thugs” to riot. The facts reveal that the incidence of Black lives lost to police far exceed these two instances.
Dozens of lives are lost annually and often a simple protest or no action at all occurs. Those instances are lost and it is often believed that “fairness” prevailed. That may not be the case. The incidents of police “thugism” may be more rampant than exists when there is community uprising. Every life lost is a tragedy. If only Black people protest Black lives lost and White people protest White lives lost, then our humanity is diminished. We should all be concerned that a climate of violence exists in our country that allows people to be killed by those in authority, those who are criminals, or those who are angry; particularly through the use of weapons. Too many people are lost, some innocent, because of the belief that somehow compliance should be related to our potential to take a life.
that we jointly occupy this space on earth. We must realize that the protections of citizenship are granted to all Americans regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, age or sexual preference. We must begin this dialogue now, before it is too late, and be willing to face our past without placing our fears and prejudices front and center. It is too easy to call it “playing the race card”. Brad Thompson Sr. Brad Thompson is the former President of BTA Public and Governmental Relations, a small consulting firm located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The focus of his company was developing competency in advocacy and non-profit organizations in reaching established goals and financial stability.
We must face our history of disparate treatment. We must recognize
NC GOVERNOR PARDONS HENRY MCCOLLUM AND LEON BROWN, NEEDS TO END EXECUTIONS
By Stephen Dear
On June 3rd, NC Gov. Pat McCrory pardoned Henry McCollum and Leon Brown. These are the first pardons of people exonerated from North Carolina’s death row in the
moratorium on executions in North Carolina. The only real solution to these atrocities is to repeal the death penalty. Though innocent, Henry and Leon became targets of the powerful.
U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia once called for Henry’s death in stating his support for the death penalty and called the execution of Henry by lethal injection modern era. “enviable.” In 2010 the NC Republican Last September Henry and Leon were Party sent campaign mailers prior to the general election with Henry’s exonerated for the rape and murder mug shot on it saying he would be of 11-year-old Sabrina Buie in 1984. free under the Racial Justice Act At the time of his release Henry was the longest-serving prisoner on North supported by Democrats. “Get to know Henry McCollum. He RAPED Carolina’s death row. Leon spent AND MURDERED AN 11 YEAR OLD five years on death row and then a quarter-century in prison for the same CHILD….” crime. Both men have IQs in the 50s and 60s. After hours of intense police Henry and Leon are the eighth and ninth exonerees from North Carolina’s interrogation without lawyers present lethally flawed death penalty system. they signed confessions believing they could go home. New DNA evidence We thank Gov. McCrory for the points to another man, Roscoe Artis, pardons, but at the very least the who is serving a life sentence for a next step is to place an immediate
similar murder committed just weeks after the murder of Sabrina Buie. Even after they were exonerated Leon and Henry were ordered to register as sex offenders, thus making it virtually impossible to get jobs. Outside of a court settlement in one case North Carolina has never outright provided any of its death row exonerees any compensation until now. Henry and Leon will receive up to $750,000. “You’ve still got innocent people on North Carolina’s death row,” Henry McCollum said as he was released last year. “You’ve got some guys who should not have gotten the death penalty. That’s wrong. You got to do something.” People of Faith Against the Death Penalty calls on North Carolinians to repent over allowing a system such as the death penalty to remain in place while the evidence of its outright moral and practical failure mounts year after year.
Stephen Dear
Stephen Dear is the Executive Director of People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, an interfaith nonprofit organization based in Carrboro, NC whose mission is to educate and mobilize faith communities to act to abolish the death penalty in the United States.
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. Submission must include your full name, address and phone number. 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
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OUT & ABOUT
SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS – MAY 21, 2015 AT LA TROPICALE CAFÉ AND CATERING ON HWY 55 IN DURHAM (Photos: Anthony Ortiz)
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ONE HIT PROMOTIONS BRINGS THE BATTLE OF THE BEASTS
DURHAM, NC - One Hit Promotions held “The Battle of The Beasts,” A Night of Professional Boxing on Saturday, June 6th at the Downtown Durham. This was an incredible night of boxing and entertainment featuring North Carolina’s top professional fighters. The event was sanctioned by NC Boxing Commission. (Photos: Renaldo Jackson)
MORRIS DAY & THE TIME ROCK 39TH ANNUAL HARBORFEST
NORFOLK, VA - Morris Day & the Time, the popular ‘80s funk group started by Prince, headlined the 39th Annual Norfolk Harborfest on June 6th at Town Point Park. Harborfest, celebrating Norfolk’s seafaring heritage and is the largest, longest running free maritime festival in the nation. Morris Day entertained the crowd with his smooth dance moves and hip vocals. Morris Day & The Time performed at the Red Hat Amphitheatre in Raleigh, NC on May 30th. (Photo: Randy Singleton)
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COVER STORY
JUNETEENTH A Brief History The proclamation reaches the South where a family of slaves receives news of their emancipation.
There is a common misconception among Americans that Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves with a stroke of his pen. Yet the Emancipation Proclamation, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 1863, did no such thing — or, at least, it didn’t do a very good job of it. Two and a half years later, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers sailed into Galveston, Texas, announced the end of the Civil War, and read aloud a general order freeing the quarter-million slaves residing in the state. It’s likely that none of them had any idea that they had actually been freed more than two years before. It was truly a day of mass emancipation. It has become known as Juneteenth. Since then, Juneteenth has been a day of celebration for many African Americans, a de facto second Independence Day commemorating the end of slavery and a first step toward inclusion in the greater American dream. It’s a bittersweet holiday, “a time of celebration, but also a time of reflection, healing, and hopefully a time for the country to come together and deal with its slave legacy,” says the Rev. Ronald V. Meyers, chairman of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation. Meyers has worked for almost 15 years to get Juneteenth recognized by state legislatures. Currently, a little more than half of U.S. states acknowledge Juneteenth in some form or another, usually on the third Saturday of June. Only one, however, actually celebrates it as a legal state holiday: Texas. Juneteenth celebrations began there in the years following General Gordon Granger’s 1865 proclamation in Galveston and continued for decades. The tradition spread to bordering Southern states, such as Arkansas and Louisiana, as migrating African Americans fanned out from Texas. It reached as far as California — where San Francisco has held one of the nation’s largest Juneteenth celebrations for the last five-plus decades — and Minnesota, where Minneapolis boasts a large festival. Yet as one would expect from an unofficial holiday, its popularity has waxed and waned over the decades. It fell from favor during the civil rights struggles of the 1950s and ‘60s, as African Americans looked more to change their future rather than focus on the past. Following a resurgence in popularity in the ‘70s, however, Texas state legislator Al Edwards in 1979 introduced a bill to make Juneteenth a state holiday; the first state-approved celebration took place the following year. Edwards, sometimes referred to as the father of Juneteenth (and less well known for his support in 2005 of a bill that would have banned sexy high school cheerleading), is one of many who has been working to make it a national holiday. In years past, Senator Barack Obama has co-sponsored legislation to make Juneteenth a national holiday.
In recognizing the history of American freedom, advocates say, Juneteenth is as deserving of recognition as Independence Day. “We may have gotten there in different ways and at different times,” says Meyers of blacks and whites, “but you can’t really celebrate freedom in America by just going with the Fourth of July.”
WHY IS JUNETEENTH CELEBRATED? It symbolizes the end of slavery. Juneteenth has come to symbolize for many African-Americans what the fourth of July symbolizes for all Americans -- freedom. It serves as a historical milestone reminding Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery. It honors those African-Americans ancestors who survived the inhumane institution of bondage, as well as demonstrating pride in the marvelous legacy of resistance and perseverance they WHY left us.
NOT JUST CELEBRATE THE FOURTH OF JULY LIKE OTHER AMERICANS?
Blacks do celebrate the Fourth of July in honor of American Independence Day, but history reminds us that blacks were still enslaved when the United States obtained its independence.
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11TH ANNUAL NORTH CAROLINA
PERFORMERS “ AFRICAN AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY”
R&B SENSATION
CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS Christopher Williams, who emerged during the late 1980s as a recording artist for Geffen Records, has scored many hit singles, notably “Promises, Promises” (1989), “Talk to Myself” (1989), and “Every Little Thing U Do” (1993). The single “I’m Dreamin’” (1991), from the New Jack City soundtrack, became a #1 single on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks charts. After a six-year hiatus from recording music, he returned to the music scene with Real Men Do on the indie label Renegade, in 2001. It received a glowing, flattering review in Ebony Magazine that summer. In between solo pursuits, he has been a contributor to Alex Bugnon’s “As Promised,” with a smooth jazz version of Mary J. Blige’s “All That I Can Say”, featured on “In Your World” with Twista & The Speedknot Mobstas, a very uptempo track on the soundtrack of “Doctor Dolittle”, and on the Cafe Soul All-Stars CD with a single entitled “Used To Be.” Other soundtrack contributions include: “Tha 2 of Us” from the film Bulletproof, “Superhero” from the film Butter, “Boom and the Bang” (featuring R&B songstress Monifah) and “I’m Yours” from the soundtrack of the stage play Men Cry in the Dark, and “Stranger In My Life” from
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the film Gunmen. Additional collaborations throughout his career include: “Round and Round” and “No Sunshine” from the CD Phuture Flava, “Love You More Than Words Can Say” from the CD Soul Blitz Allstars, the duet with Miki Howard, “I Hope That We Can Be Together Soon”, the duet with Shae, “You Are So Fine”, “Can’t Wait To Be With You” from the DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince release Code Red, “I Wanna B Ure Lover” from the F.S. Effect release So Deep It’s Bottomless, and “Sexual Healing”, the duet with reggae dancehall queen Patra. There are countless artists from several genres who give full credit to him for writing lyrics, performing, producing, editing, collaborating, and simply “doing a favor for a friend.” Williams appeared in the 1991 film New Jack City. He portrayed the role of Kareem Akbar, one of Nino Brown’s assistants. He also had cameo appearances in the 1990s police drama, New York Undercover and in Gunmen, starring Christopher Lambert and Mario Van Peebles. He has also starred or co-starred in
several successful off Broadway theatre productions during the 2000s, including A Good Man is Hard to Find, A House is Not a Home, Men Cry in the Dark, and The Man He Used to Be. Recently, Williams played a main character in the stage play The Clean Up Woman, written by JD Lawrence, and played alongside actress Telma Hopkins and Jackée. Williams appeared in plays Guilty Until Proven Innocent, starring K-Ci & JoJo, and The Man of Her Dreams, starring Shirley Murdock and Dave Hollister of Blackstreet fame. He played the role of “Ned” in the Reuben Rox 2002 B movie comedy/ horror/thriller film Revenge of the Unhappy Campers (bootleg alternate title Night of the Unhappy Campers), with the tagline: “Tonight they get EVEN.” This particular work has not been released to DVD for sale, though it can be rented in some larger markets.
Williams (1993) from a relationship with Heather Barnes. In the late ‘80s or early ‘90s, Christopher Williams was the boyfriend of Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry. After Halle Berry told interviewers that an abusive ex-boyfriend struck her so hard that she lost most of the hearing in her right ear, many people assumed that Williams was the unnamed exboyfriend. Williams defended himself to Eurweb, the entertainment news website, denying that he ever harmed Berry, and suggesting that Berry has been referring to actor Wesley Snipes. He said, “The stuff they wrote about me and Halle was totally false. It’s been said I busted her eardrum, and I’m tired of it. I never said it before but I’m so tired of people thinking I’m the guy who did it. Wesley busted her eardrum, not me.” Halle Berry is also on record denying that Williams ever hit her.
Christopher Williams is the nephew of After a hiatus from the music industry, legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. Williams is embarking on the second He has a son, Justin, who was born chapter of his career and is back in from a relationship with a stylist in the studio for the first time in years 1988 and another son Austin, who was working on a new album. born in 1991, with actress Stacey Dash. He also has a daughter, Cierra BarnesJuneteenth Performers CONTINUES ON PAGE 13
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CYNTHIA JONES GOSPEL’S QUEEN OF NEO-SOUL
Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES Grammy and Stellar nominated singer/ songwriter Cynthia Jones, considered to be Gospel’s Queen of Neo-Soul, is one of the greatest soul singers and performers of her generation. She has undeniably broken through barriers as the missing link between the neosoul movement and the gospel realm, reaching hearts and souls of listeners from all walks of life through her style of music. Cynthia Jones debuted on scene with her release of “Almost Midnight” in 2000 on her own label “Angel Dove Records”. Since then she has recorded four albums, was awarded the Radio One Heritage Award, and garnered four North Carolina Prestige Awards for Female Gospel/Jazz Vocalist. By 2008 she caught the attention of, and is currently on Kingdom Records, which is home to #1 billboard charting and Gold selling artist “Shekinah Glory Ministry” for her earthy, organic style of gospel music. From the beginning the Raleigh, North Carolina native vowed to God that she would never disguise the Lord’s name… even after being told that she would be more successful and get more airplay on radio if she would take out words such as God and Jesus, and exchange them for words like you, him and he so people
wouldn’t recognize who she was singing about. As a born again believer Cynthia feels like it would be a disservice to lower the bar and leave out the name of Christ just to cross over. Cynthia decrees, “If my music crosses over, it would do so because people genuinely love my music and the message without changing my lyrics.” A powerful neo-soul gospel artist that takes full command of her audience, Cynthia remains true to her soulful roots. She is a high energy, worldclass performer who connects with her audience. Cynthia’s voice is simply arresting, smooth and as rich as a caramel latte…a touch of Jill Scott, Lisa McClendon, and Erykah Badu. It’s no wonder she was invited by the Godfather of Gospel jazz himself Ben Tankard, to collaborate on his Full Tank CD and share the stage with him. She has also graced the stage with Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Martha Munizzi, Detrick Haddon and even with R&B and blues legends Howard Hewitt and Bobby Rush. To date Cynthia has won a diverse
legion of fans through her soulful rhythms and bold lyricism. In 2009 Cynthia received three Stellar Award nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year, Female Contemporary Vocalist of the Year, and Contemporary CD of the Year. In 2012 her talents were again on display resulting in three Grammy nominations, Best Contemporary R&B Gospel, Best Performance, and Best Song. Her music is transcending. Many souls from all walks of life, as well as those who have turned away from God and the church, have embraced gospel music again through her style of music. “It blesses me to read comments on my social media sites such as: “Your music saved my life”, “I don’t like Gospel music, but I’ll listen to Cynthia Jones, “Thank God for Cynthia Jones, where have you been?” Its comments like this that reminds me why God has given me this platform for this particular style of music,” Cynthia comments. She also has gained support from the smooth jazz and stepping community. Yes, Ms. Cynthia Jones can step a little bit.
she is contagious with love, care and kindness. People instantly connect to her. They love, respect, and appreciate her lyrical honesty just as much as they love the vibe felt when listening to her music. Cynthia’s most recent accomplishment is being on Maranatha Records 2014 Top 10 Gospel Songs CD, for a masterpiece she’d written for Shekinah Glory Ministry titled “Revival”. The project was produced by the one and only master producer himself, Percy Bady. “Revival” shows a surprisingly, but amazing different style of music from Cynthia Jones as it is a traditional piece, but she knocked it out the park as she normally does adding to her already diverse audience, of traditional, neo-soul, and Jazz music lovers from all walks of life that simply love, respect, and appreciate the musical integrity and lyrical honesty that’s found in the music of Cynthia Jones. As new doors and avenues continue open for Cynthia Jones, she will continue to be true to her calling and seize every opportunity in and outside the church walls to spread the gospel.
Cynthia has a genuine heart for people; Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES ON PAGE 14
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JOHNNY WHITE & THE ELITE BAND ONE OF THE BEST DANCE SHOW BANDS
Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES Upon meeting Johnny, one is mesmerized by the pictures on his walls - pictures of his father in a veteran uniform, pictures of his family, pictures of his band and a Cammy Award, presented to him in 1996 for a lifetime of achievement. One is also mesmerized by the warm welcome of Johnny and the sincerity of his openness during the interview. He’ll be quick to note that he’s a private man, but he’s also a man who believes in working hard, handling business and holding family in a special place. There isn’t a specific time when the rhythm within Johnny was recorded, but he recalls “going around the house, listening to the radio and playing rhythmic [beats] onto the chairs,” he concludes, “because we didn’t have a lot of money [for instruments]. His father encouraged his passion for music, but instilled in him to work hard because through hard work, success would come. “My father would say that whenever you do, give the customers more that what they are paying for…exceed client’s expectations.” From far back as he can remember, Johnny performed at various talent shows. Even while in elementary school, his penchant for entering talent competitions was vast and was even longer, by age 14. In high school, with him as trumpet player, he started a band called “The Fabulous Flames”, which was a spin-off of James Brown’s “The Famous Flames”. He was the trumpet player, along with a sax player,
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a trombone player, three horns (called the rhythm section), a drummer, a lead guitar and a bass player, and of course, two beautiful female singers. After the band was formed, Johnny’s father encouraged him to attend a particular showcase in Charlotte, so that he could scope out the competition of the other bands. At the competition, he learned of Ted Hall with Hit Attractions, the Rolls Royce of booking agents. Johnny noticed that he was the sponsor of the event and wanted to talk with him. He contacted Ted and was told to come to Charlotte and audition for him. So, he and his band auditioned and were booked. For almost three years, “The Fabulous Flames” traveled everywhere. They enjoyed the ride, until Johnny graduated from high school. His father wanted him to graduate from college, even though his band had been successfully traveling the country. The group dismantled and Johnny attended North Carolina College at Durham, what is now North Carolina Central University (the name officially changed the year he graduated). He received a full scholarship and majored in his passion, Music. Johnny’s desire to perform music never left him. In his freshman year, he met Willie “Papa” Stone, a college employee, who was looking for an addition to the “Shamrocks”, a band consisting of professional people he managed. The new addition would sing and play for the group. Johnny made the band. This was the start of his career as a singer and as the
only student in the band. During his Getting back into the circuit and stint with the group, Johnny learned the connecting with those he had worked foundation of being a great entertainer. with in his past, the band “Johnny He learned how to be a sharp dresser, White and the Crusaders” was formed. always have his shoes shined, give a The name piggy backed off “The good visual performance, but most Jazz Crusaders Band” and could play importantly, always be punctual and anything. In 1976, the name “Johnny take care of business. After performing White and the Crusades” was changed with the “Shamrocks”, Johnny, in his to “Johnny White and the Elite” for sophomore year, created his own band various reasons. called “The Lee Darvis Orchestra”, In 1974, distributed by Valle dedicated to a member of the group. Dalle, the band recorded Physically, The band consisted of 5 horns, 2 Healthy and Trim, as Johnny calls saxophones, a trumpet, a trombone, a it, PHAT. The band also played at guitar, a bass, drums and a keyboard, various colleges, frat houses, as well while Johnny sang out front. as performed for middle and upper Upon graduating from college, he class family events. The band earned applied for and received a position in a good living and was able to purchase Long Island, NY as the Director of their first tour bus – outside, laced with Choral Music. His roommate applied silver and red, and inside, had enough for and received the same titled living space for ten people. Johnny position in New Jersey. Although states that he was “never lonely on the his roommate stayed at his position road [because] he was always ready to until retirement, Johnny only stayed handle business.” From there, he built in New York for a year. He had an a musical legacy. overwhelming passion to do gigs, so The group features two powerful he contacted his friends still living in lead vocalists, Johnny White and Shirl North Carolina to help him get back Makins, and three soulful female into the circuit. Johnny recalls the backup singers whose harmonies reason he came back to Durham, as combine the smoothness of Luther opposed to Detroit (where Motown was Vandross with the soulfulness of Aretha located), “Durham was a musician’s Franklin. The band is also known for haven. Major artists looked to Durham performing high energy choreography for top musicians. “The Stallion Club” that provokes enthusiastic response was the place, on the corner of 55 and from any audience. Johnny White & Cornwallis where Marion Wiggins The Elite Band is one of the best dance (drummer for Chuck Jackson), James show bands in the business today. Jones (drummer for “The Staple Singers”) and Ronnie Garrett (the music director for Tyler Perry’s plays) were discovered. Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES ON PAGE 15
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RISSI PALMER
By Sherri Holmes
SHE’S GOT SOUTHERN SOUL
Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES When Rissi Palmer released her album in 2007, the success of her first single made her the first African American woman to hit the US Billboard country charts in twenty years. That achievement led to appearances on CNN and the CBS Early Show as well as performances at the White House and the Grand Old Opry. Palmer was also featured in People and Rolling Stone magazines. Although appearing in Essence, Ebony and Jet was particularly meaningful for Palmer. “I’m a country singer but at the end of the day I am still a black woman. And so it was nice to see myself in the publications that I grew up reading.” Since Palmer was 3 years old she knew that she wanted to be a singer. She grew up in a home where her parents listened to all types of music. Palmer said, “It felt like that was just the way it was. You would hear Dolly Parton and Phoebe Snow. Then you would hear Aretha Franklin and there would be Andraé Crouch. And it all went together.” As Palmer struggled to create her own sound, she found that she gravitated to country music. Palmer said, “It was hard to define. I knew that country music felt comfortable, natural and
I just always loved it. . . . I started singing a certain way and writing songs a certain way.” At age 19, a chance meeting at an airport led to a deal offer from Terry Lewis and Jimmy Jam. Although it was an amazing opportunity, Palmer turned them down. She said, “They were awesome and wonderful but they didn’t want me to do country.” Palmer moved to New York and spent several years struggling while she pursued her dream. She sang jiggles, wrote songs and performed at clubs. Then Palmer met a representative from the music label 1720 Entertainment at a party. Two days later she had a record deal and her career took off. Still, Palmer began to feel lost in the business side of the music industry. Palmer said, “Songs were being chosen because they were radio friendly or commercial and not because they were songs that I absolutely loved or touched me in some way.” So despite the success of her first album, Palmer decided to leave the company. “I didn’t feel like my input and my ideas were being valued. It wasn’t fun to make music anymore.” Unfortunately, 1720 Entertainment didn’t want to lose its new star and
so Palmer had to fight for one and a half years to get out of her contract. Palmer said, “I couldn’t record or perform. I spent every dime defending myself in court. If it wasn’t for 1720 Entertainment I wouldn’t have this opportunity. I was extremely grateful but it was time to go.” Then Palmer met her husband. He lived in North Carolina and after several months of commuting Palmer decided to relocate from Nashville. Palmer gave birth to their daughter, Grace and settled into her new life as a wife and mother. After years of struggling to find her place in the music industry, Palmer wasn’t sure that she wanted to continue to sing professionally. Then Palmer took her daughter to a Mommy and Me music class. After listening to the basic songs, Palmer was inspired to create music that could be enjoyed by children and parents together. Palmer wrote her album, Best Day Ever, over a three day weekend. She said, “It was a joy and was the most fun that I have ever had in the studio. And that is when I got excited again.” Palmer’s children’s album was well received and Hallmark has selected her title song for a compilation of family music.
album, Palmer decided to rededicate herself to her music career. This time Palmer decided to take control by launching Baldilocks, a company that she formed with her husband. They released her new album, The Back Porch Sessions, in May. Palmer said, “I got to sing what I really loved and it didn’t matter if songs were commercial or any of that. I was just like, does this sound good? Can I bob my head to this in the car? And if I can, then yes I am going to do that. And that was kind of my litmus test.” Palmer’s current album represents a new direction for her career. She said, “Its got soul, its got some gospel elements, its got a little bit of country. I hope that people can see how honest and real it is to me and how genuine it is coming from me. And they won’t mind that there is no fiddle on this record. I am nervous about that but otherwise I love it so much and I’m really excited.”
Despite the challenges that Palmer has faced in the very competitive music industry, she remains optimistic. She said, “The sky is the limit as far as I’m concerned. So whatever there is . . .whatever the universe and God has in store for this project and for me. That’s what I want.” With the success of her children’s Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES ON PAGE 17
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JOHN THORPE & TRUTH
THE NIGEL EXPERIENCE
Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES
John “J.T.” Thorpe, born in
Roxboro, North Carolina the ninth of fourteen children, began singing at the tender age of five years old. His parents as well as family and friends realized he had the favor of God through song. This talented vocalist presents himself with much dedication and devotion; much like John the Baptist, John says that gospel is essential part of his life. He is a faithful member his family church - New Hope Baptist Church in Timberlake, NC. John’s tenor and baritone vocal range was well-suited to singing lead with The Mighty Jubilaires, the ensemble with whom he sang traditional gospel for fourteen years in Newburg, NY. His love of music and singing led to John recording with the Brower Brothers, producing two high profile gospel albums on two record labels - Jet Records and Popular Records. Their “Church Devil” CD quickly climbed the charts, affording them the opportunity to tour the country. John’s devotion to singing opened many doors of opportunity for him such as working as a radio announcer for
“The Gospel Train” show on WEOK in Poughkeepsie, NY every Sunday with co host Freddie Herring. He is currently a committed member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA) Gospel Radio Announcer’s Guild, as well as a member of the NC Chapter of the Radio Announcer’s Guild. His talents have also led him to write lyrics for the late Willie Neal Johnson and The Gospel Keynotes of Tyler, TX. John released his first CD in 2005 entitled “In His Name” and, the same year, he received the Soloist of the Year Award. In 2012 he released a “live” CD with gospel superstar and TV personality Bobby Jones, entitled “Child of God.” In April 2012, God sent a group of anointed young men to share in John’s ministry of music and they are known as John Thorpe and Truth. This group of young men enjoys giving their gifts back to God by singing the gospel truth wherever God may lead them. Currently John Thorpe is working on his third CD, “Stay With Jesus” featuring the late McCollins Thorpe, to be released in 2015.
Nigel is a local R&B artist born and
raised in the “Great Bull City”, Durham N.C. Nigel has always had a love for music which began at a very young age. He began singing at the age of 5 and continued to express his passion for music by participating in school talent shows and studying music at North Carolina Central University. His love for music continued to blossom and he was given the opportunity to perform with some of the finest bands including Soul Play from Durham NC, The Mardi Gras Band and The Heartbeat Band from Raleigh, NC. One of his memorable performances included opening for the R&B Legends Delfonics and Blue Magic. He also frequently performed at Papa Mojos Roadhouse and the Blue Oasis Bar & Lounge.
His compassion and dedication gave him the desire to create his own band “The Nigel Experience.” He was determined to make his dream a reality by doing what he loves best, singing and putting his heart and soul into his music. The Nigel Experience specializes in the soulful sounds of Motown, Classy Party, Funk, and Beach to today’s latest hits. He has been awarded the opportunity to perform at private parties, local community events, and weddings. No event is too small or big for him to guarantee a spectacular performance. For those who have not had the opportunity to see his show, prepare to have all of your senses tantalized and be ready for an EXPERIENCE that you will definitely remember! The Nigel Experience is looking forward to keeping you on your feet.
Juneteenth Performers CONTINUES ON PAGE 19
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OTHER PERFORMERS
AUBREY BREJANAY
TC3
REAL THE RAPPER
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:
BULL CITY HEAT ALL STARS
BOUNCING BULL DOGS
KING AYOOLA
TRACY LAMONT
“STING” HILLSIDES TOURING DANCE COMPANY
1:00 1:30 1:45 2:15 3:10 3:30 3:45 4:45 5:15 5:45 6:30 7:00 7:15 8:15 8:45 9:30
OPENING CEREMONY BULL CITY ALL STARS (CHEER) KING AYOOLA (REGGAE) JOHN THORPE & TRUTH (GOSPEL) BOUNCING BULLDOGS (JUMP ROPE) AN-G DJ J-MAR PRESENTS (HIP HOP): REAL THE RAPPER (HIP HOP) TC3 (HIP HOP) TRACEY LAMONT (HIP HOP) LVCKY 7 (HIP HOP) AUBREY BREJANEY (R&B/JAZZ) RISSI PALMER (COUNTRY/SOUTHERN SOUL) THE NIGEL EXPERIENCE (R&B) KEYNOTE SPEAKER: REV. CURTIS GATEWOOD “STING” HILLSIDE DANCE TROUPE (DANCE) JOHNNY WHITE BAND (R&B) CYNTHIA JONES (NEO-SOUL GOSPEL) CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS (R&B) OLD SCHOOL BLOCK PARTY (OLD SCHOOL/NEW SCHOOL)
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FEATURES
Rosenwald Schools The History That You Should Know
By Sherri Holmes
Per the Durham County Library Rosenwald Schools project: This two-teacher school was the first Rosenwald school in Durham County. Rev. William D. Smith, a pillar of the black community, spearheaded its construction. It was built while the Tuskegee Institute was administering the Rosenwald Fund, between 1915 and 1919. Built on two acres of land, the school cost $2,838. Of this total, $1,088 came from the black community, $750 from the white community, $550 from public funds (provided by the Durham County school board), and $450 came from the Rosenwald Fund. The Rougemont School was located in the urban part of Durham County (Mangum Township). Just like other Rosenwald schools that followed, the Rougemont school replaced a previous “recycled” school that had been decommissioned as a school for whites.
During the Jim Crow era the African American community helped build Rosenwald schools across the South to ensure that their children received a quality education. Today, the legacy of these schools is fading from the memories as well as the landscape of our community. The buildings are on the list of America’s most endangered historical places. And yet, the Rosenwald Schools along with the teachers who led them are an important part of African American history. In the early 1900’s, it was clear that America was unwilling to invest in the education of African American children. In communities that provided schools, the buildings were dilapidated and many teachers had little education. Booker T. Washington recognized the urgent need to address this issue. He reached out to Julius Rosenwald, President of Sears, Roebuck and Company who had recently joined the Board of Trustees of Tuskegee Institute. Rosenwald agreed to fund a 6 small schools in Alabama. Eventually, the program was expanded and helped to finance almost 5,300 schools, shops and teacher’s homes in 15 states. In order to receive a grant, each community had to raise additional funds. The school board had to
The construction of this school began under Jeanes supervisor Frank Husband, who spent much of his tenure in the position keeping the project on track, as the county school board was slow to act. His advocacy may have rubbed the powers-that-be the wrong way, leading to his dismissal. The school was completed after Mattie Day replaced Husband as Durham County Jeanes supervisor. The difficult process of getting it built seems to have cleared the way for the many local Rosenwald Schools that followed, as no communities experienced similar impediments. The lack of later impediments may be due in part to a change in the leadership of the county school board, as long-term superintendent C. W. Massey retired in 1919 and was replaced by Holland Holton, who showed more interest in the education of blacks. For the 1925-26 school year, an addition was built, expanding the Rougemont school to accommodate three teachers. This construction cost $1,400, with $100 coming from the black community, $1,100 from the school board, and $200 from the Rosenwald Fund. Further additions were made in 1927 under supervisor Gertrude Tandy Taylor including two more classrooms and an auditorium. (PHOTO: Courtesy Fisk University / Durham County Library)
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purchase the land as well as provide teachers with salaries and supervision. According to historian Joanne Abel, “The African American community was doubly taxed. Once for their regular taxes and then they provided additional funds as well as contributed labor and materials.” Recognizing the need for a quality education to improve the lives of their children, African Americans donated millions of dollars. To build the schools, communities were given blueprints and strict requirements for construction. Inspectors ensured that they met the standards. The schools were designed by a Tuskegee architect and were considered to be state of the art. In some cases the Rosenwald schools were so exceptional that the white communities took them over.
fundraising efforts, arranged healthcare, offered adult education and even started land co-ops to enable sharecroppers to purchase their own land. Despite their many sacrifices, the motto of the Jeanes teachers was “Do the next needed thing.”
The Rosenwald schools were operated by a team of educators called the Jeanes teachers. Historian Joanne Abel said, “The Jeanes teachers were the unsung heroes of the Jim Crow schools.” In 1907, a Quaker named Anna Jeanes donated a million dollars to create “The Fund for Rudimentary Schools for Southern Negroes” which paid the salaries for the teachers. In addition to overseeing instruction for the children, the Jeanes teachers led
North Carolina had 800 Rosenwald schools, more than any other state in the country. This was primarily the result of the efforts of Dr. Aaron Moore, founder of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, Lincoln Hospital and Mechanics & Farmers Bank. He spearheaded fundraising efforts and lobbied politicians, businessmen and educators. He even paid the salaries of the first Jeanes teacher in Durham and North Carolina’s first rural
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school inspector. Moore developed a fundraising pamphlet as well as a card that stated, “My message to you is to emphasize the importance of child training: without which all parental, civil and religious governments must fail”. He signed every letter with, “Yours in racial uplift”. In the early 20th century, Rosenwald Schools served as centers of community activity and symbols of pride among the populations they served. At the end of segregation
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most Rosenwald Schools were either abandoned or destroyed. Now through efforts of the National Trust for Historic Perseveration, Rosenwald Schools are being reclaimed as vital hubs of activity, to tell stories of African American education and advancement, and to preserve the modest remaining structures of this monumental educational movement. It is a major undertaking and just as the African American community worked together to build the schools, we must come together again to save them. The National Trust for Historic Preservation is holding a conference June 17-20 in Durham that will focus on Rosenwald Schools. There will be Rosenwald School exhibits at the Durham History Hub and the Durham County Library. To learn more about these events, to volunteer or to make a donation, go to www.africanamericanarts.org.
HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL’S ACTING TROOP PERFORMS IN BEIJING, CHINA
By Dr. Angela Hicks & Sherri Holmes DURHAM, NC - Hillside High School Drama Teacher Wendell Tabb launched the International Professional-Student Exchange program in 1995. It provides drama students with the opportunity to tour and perform in other countries. According to Tabb, “It’s (goal) is to change students’ perspective of the world. They gain a better
understanding of different cultures that will lead to them not being intimidated when they apply for jobs and going up against people from all over the world.” The students also serve as ambassadors and help to dispel some of the negative images of African Americans that are projected throughout the world. Since the program’s inception, students have gone to Africa, Peru, Brazil, Japan, London and Australia. This
year, twelve of Hillside’s drama students traveled half way around the world to perform in the wondrous city of Beijing, China. The students presented “Wake Up”, a piece they created that was a unique mix of dialogue and song about youth empowerment. It focused on the subject of Black Lives Matter and was inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks and Gandhi. The students’
Chinese message was “Ni Hen Zhong Yao” which means “You are important”. The Hillside students first presented their piece in front of several hundred middle school students at Beijing Huijia Private School. The Hillside students then went to Jiayu Public School and performed for a group of their peers. They also engaged in a classroom cultural exchange. Hillside drama club Hillside CONTINUES ON PAGE 24
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Hillside CONTINUES President Daniel Johnson felt that the Chinese students’ response to the performance was overwhelmingly positive. “They are more reserved and are trying to become more expressive. They said our performance was very inspiring.” John Carter Jr., a Hillside senior, appreciated the opportunity to interact with the Chinese students. “… it was easy to connect … because deep down we’re all just teenagers and share common interests.” While Hillside students captivated their young audiences, they also gained an education by visiting some of China’s most famous attractions including the Forbidden City, Tiannamen Square, Great Wall, Lama Temple, and Summer Palace. Two of the tour guides and translators for the trip were African American college students. They were able to provide the Hillside students with a unique perspective of life in China. The students also had a homevisit with an English teacher who invited them to eat Chinese dumplings prepared by her family and later arranged for the students to view strawberries and other vegetables growing at one of Beijing’s largest agricultural farms. Students also experienced a crowded subway ride with hundreds of people, a glimpse of China’s national symbol, the
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Giant Panda and even a Chinese amusement park. Where ever they went the students in their matching jackets drew attention, and Chinese bystanders took their photographs. Wendell Tabb said, “Our theatre students were totally immersed in the Chinese culture and learned so much from the experience.”
of China and received a lifetime gift of language and culture exchange. Writers Dr. Angela Hicks, President of Global Link China, the company
One of Tabb’s favorite moments was climbing the Great Wall with the students. As they began to get exhausted they sang spirituals including “I don’t feel no ways tired” to help them get up the wall. John Carter, a Hillside junior also feels that it was an important moment. He reflected upon the trip, “From pushing physical limitations on the Great Wall to the awe inspiring indigenous architecture…this was an indescribable adventure.” It’s clear that each student shared a part of themselves with the people
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that organized the Hillside China Trip. She can be reached at www.globallinkchina.org. Sherri Holmes, Director of the Triangle Friends of African American Arts. She can be reached at www. africanamericanarts.org.
NEWSBRIEFS SHAW UNIVERSITY NAMES DR. TASHNI DUBROY AS PRESIDENT and Mathematics. “We wanted a proven leader, a seasoned academic, but most importantly, we sought an individual with business acumen who could merge the qualities of excellence in higher education with the professionalism of the board room,” said Shaw University Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Joseph N. Bell, Jr. “These qualities were more than evident in Dr. Dubroy, and we are delighted and excited to witness what Dr. Dubroy will not only do for our University, but for our students, faculty, staff, alumni and community.”
RALEIGH, NC – Shaw University’s Board of Trustees named Dr. Tashni Dubroy as Shaw’s 17th president on June 1st . Dubroy, a Shaw graduate, is the third alumnus, third female and the second youngest person to serve as Shaw’s president. Her appointment is effective August 1, 2015. Dr. Dubroy was voted president during a special meeting on May 30th of the Board of Trustees. President-elect Dubroy previously served as the special assistant to the president for process optimization and the chair of Shaw’s department of Natural Sciences
Dubroy, 34, began her career as a research scientist at BASF, the world’s leading chemical company. She quickly ascended the ranks, receiving two promotions in two years. She served as a global technology analyst and procurement manager at the company, where she managed a strategic sourcing budget of $35 million. Following her tenure at BASF, Dubroy was hired by her alma mater in 2011, where she served as an associate professor of chemistry and later the department chair of Shaw’s department of natural sciences and mathematics. As a professor and department chair, Dubroy managed the department’s $1.2 million budget, supervised 25 faculty members and
mentored 22 undergraduate students as part of the Shaw in Jamaica international research project funded by the National Institutes of Health. In 2014, Dubroy was promoted and became a member of Shaw’s administrative team as the special assistant to the president for process optimization. In this role, she was responsible for increasing efficiency and reducing cost through a detailed analysis of the University’s operations to achieve quantifiable improvement and growth across all campus departments. Desiring to pursue her dream as a business owner, Dubroy co-founded Tea and Honey Blends in 2009, a hair care company that manufactures and retails natural hair care products. She later opened the Element Beauty Bar, a hair salon located in downtown Raleigh. Passionate about the community, science and education, Dubroy founded the Brilliant and Beautiful Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to mentoring women in science. Each summer, the foundation hosts a SMART Scholars workshop at North Carolina State University’s Friday Institute for Educational Innovation, where middle school girls make personal care products and market them to a team of judges.
“I have built my reputation on my ability to do, to listen, to lead and to create diverse and inclusive teams,” said Dr. Dubroy. “Our strategy will be nontraditional, innovative and dynamic and I look forward to leading my alma mater in the next phase of our journey.” Dubroy is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades. In 2012, the United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) National Alumni Council presented her with an “Outstanding Young Alumni” award for her service to Shaw. In 2014, she was awarded the “Distinguished Alumni in Science Diversity” Award by North Carolina State University. Last year, The National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers honored Dubroy and her business partner for their work in science and Entrepreneurship, calling them “21st century visionary, entrepreneurial leaders, who are the New Chemists on the Block.” Dubroy has received fellowship awards from the United Negro College Fund, National Science Foundation and the National Organization for Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, and is published in various scientific journals including the Journal of Physical Organic Chemistry. Cosmopolitan magazine recognized her as a “fun, fearless female,” and she has been featured in both Money magazine and Bloomberg’s BusinessWeek. Dubroy graduated summa cum laude from Shaw University in 2002, and earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry. She earned a Ph.D. in physical organic chemistry from North Carolina State University in 2007 and in 2010 she graduated with an MBA in marketing from Rutgers University in New Jersey. Dubroy is a member of the American Chemical Society and was nominated for membership in Sigma Xi, the Distinguished Chemical Society. A native of Jamaica, Dubroy is the daughter of Emerson and Greta Coote and is one of six siblings. She is married to Dale Dubroy and they have one child, daughter Marli-Jolie, age 6.
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HEY AMERICA!: EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA AND THE BIRTH OF FUNK RALEIGH, NC - Bring on the funk! A new genre of American music, called funk, emerged during the mid- to late 1960s. Musical genius Nathaniel “Nat” Jones of Kinston, NC and other African American musical pioneers from eastern North Carolina helped to create funk when they joined up with James Brown in 1964. They helped transform Brown into the icon known worldwide as the “Godfather of Funk Music.” At the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh, an exhibit case, titled Hey America!: Eastern North Carolina and the Birth of Funk, will feature seven items associated with Brown and some Tar Heel musicians who worked with him. The exhibit case will be on view from Saturday June 6, through Sunday February. 28, 2016 in the museum lobby. Admission is free. To complement Hey America!, Sam Lathan, who played with James Brown and the Famous Flames, and Dick Knight, who performed with the James Brown Orchestra, will present programs in June. (Knight will be joined by Bill Myers.) More than 50 years later, these Tar Heels are still going strong! In August, Tyrone Jefferson, who served several stints as Brown’s music director from 1979 through 2006, will lead a master class and give a performance.
performance by Brown, “brought the funk.”
The addition of North Carolinians to James Brown’s bands began in 1962. When the legendary singer and dancer needed a drummer, he hired Lathan, of Wilson, to join James Brown and the Famous Flames. Two years later, Brown asked Jones, a graduate of N.C. College for Negroes (now N.C. Central University), to join as songwriter and music director for the James Brown Orchestra. In turn, Jones hired Kinston musicians Maceo Parker, Melvin Parker, Levi Rasbury and Dick Knight. Between 1964 and 1967, Jones led the group and wrote many of the singer’s hit records. The director and musicians developed the rhythmic new form of music that combined elements of bebop jazz, soul music, and rhythm and blues. The orchestra, in combination with a
“The funk genre diverted Americans from the complex racial issues of the 1960s and brought them together,” said Earl Ijames, Exhibit Curator. “Brown’s 1964 album ‘Grits & Soul’ embodied the spirit of the Civil Rights Act and gave African Americans and whites the push to integrate willfully - by dancing.” The exhibit case title, Hey America!, was inspired by a Christmas song written by Jones. Learn more about this song and others in Hey America!, and see the following items. • A green jumpsuit, ca. 1970, and Pierre Cardin dress shoes, ca. 1965-1970, that Brown wore during his unforgettable live performances. Both objects are on loan from the Estate of James Brown. • The saxophone that Maceo Parker played with James Brown in the 1970s. • The set of drums that Melvin Parker performed with in the 1970s.
• The original 1962 album “Pure Dynamite.” • A saxophone played by Nat Jones. • A poster featuring a performance by the Nat Jones Orchestra on Aug. 4, 1967. (Jones led this orchestra, as well as the James Brown Orchestra.) • In addition, you can hear eight songs that Brown recorded, such as “It’s A Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World;” “Superbad, Superslick;” and “Make It Funky.” Brown’s career spanned six decades and earned him the reputation as the “Godfather of Funk Music” and as the “Godfather of Soul.” The musician, singer and dancer died in 2006. Visit Hey America! and find out what Maceo Parker meant when he said, “Some music is listening music, while other types of music may be more reverent. . . . But our music makes you dance to the rhythm and bring the funk!” Hey America! was inspired, in part, by African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina, a guidebook produced by the N.C. Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources. Access www. AfricanAmericanMusicNC.com for more information. The African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina is proudly supported by the NC African American Heritage Commission.
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Briefly VALERIE SHEARES ASHBY TO BECOME ARTS AND SCIENCES DEAN AT DUKE
DURHAM, NC - Valerie Sheares Ashby, a professor and chair of the chemistry department at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), will be the next dean of Trinity College of Arts & Sciences at Duke University beginning July 1. Ashby will oversee the university’s core academic units, which offer courses and degrees across the arts, humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Ashby joined the UNC-CH faculty in 2003 after serving as a faculty member at Iowa State University since 1995. She was named Bowman and Gordon Gray Distinguished Term Professor of Chemistry in 2007, when she also began serving as the director of the UNC National Science Foundation Alliance for Graduate Education Professoriate and Research Education Support programs. In 2012, she became chair of the chemistry department. A native of North Carolina who grew up in Clayton, Ashby earned her Bachelor of Arts degree (1988) and Ph.D. (1994) in chemistry from UNC-CH. Ashby’s research is in the area of synthetic polymer chemistry with a focus on designing and synthesizing materials for biomedical applications such as X-ray contrast agents and drug delivery materials. She has numerous publications and holds eight patents. In 2010, Ashby was named a National Science Foundation American Competitiveness and Innovation Fellow and an honorary member of the Tau Sigma Honor Society. She has received multiple other honors from her peers, including the distinguished Order of the Golden Fleece (2012) and the UNC General Alumni Association Faculty Service Award (2013). Known as an outstanding teacher, Ashby received the Carlyle Sitterson Freshman Teaching Award (2008), the UNC-CH Student Undergraduate Teaching Award (2009) and the Johnston Teaching Award (2013). Ashby also has a passion for increasing diversity in higher education and creating and expanding pathways for underrepresented minority students to access educational opportunities that allow them to reach their full potential. She is a national consultant and adviser to National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health diversity programs, and has mentored numerous undergraduate and graduate students in varying disciplines. Since 2014, she has served as faculty director for the Initiative for Minority Excellence at the UNC Chapel Hill Graduate School.
NCCU STUDENTS AWARDED COUNSELING FELLOWSHIP FROM NATIONAL FOUNDATION
DURHAM, NC – Five North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Education graduate students have been selected for the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation Minority Fellowship Program. Recipients will receive funding and training to support their education and to provide their counseling services to underserved minority youth ages 16–25. The NBCC Foundation awarded NCCU counselor education graduate students a total of $49,000 this year. The Minority Fellowship Program’s addictioncounseling fellowship went to Shehnila Ali, Wesley Wade, Lacrisha Holcomb and Kiel Frett, who each received $11,000. Crystal McDowell was awarded a $5,000 mental health fellowship. This year’s recipients were selected on the basis of academic knowledge and experience with racially and ethnically diverse populations. The Minority Fellowship Program is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and was designed to help reduce health disparities and improve behavioral health care for racially and ethnically diverse populations.
MICHAEL JONES NAMED CHCCS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
CHAPEL HILL, NC – Michael Jones of Culbreth Middle, was named the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools 2015-16 Teacher of the Year at the Annual Recognition Reception on May 15 at Carrboro High. Jones is a choral music teacher with 21 years of teaching experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in public school music from Norfolk State University. Jones received a $1,000 check from the Bank of North Carolina, as well as gifts from area businesses.
DUKE JUNIOR JAMAL EDWARDS SELECTED AS THOMAS R. PICKERING FOREIGN AFFAIRS FELLOW
DURHAM, NC - Duke University junior Jamal Edwards is one of only 10 undergraduates nationwide selected to be a 2015 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellow by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation. Edwards, a Robertson Scholar from Rancho Cucamonga, California, is among 30 undergraduate and graduate students awarded Pickering Fellowships for 2015 -- 20 graduate students and 10 undergraduates. The fellows are selected based on their demonstrated skills of dedication, initiative, integrity, cultural adaptability, the ability to communicate well and a thorough intellectual background. These members of the 22nd class of Pickering Undergraduate Fellows will receive financial support toward their senior year and first year of graduate school. Fellows will also participate in one domestic and one overseas internship, receiving mentoring from Foreign Service officers. They also must complete a minimum five-year service commitment as a Foreign Service officer. Edwards, a global health and journalism double major, is a first-generation college student who participates in Duke’s First Generation Network, Cardea Fellows Program and was president of the
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Black Student Alliance. Last summer, he interned with the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS in Geneva, Switzerland, with the Governance and Multilateral Affairs unit.
FORMER MISS NCCU CROWNED MISS BLACK PHILADELPHIA USA 2015
PHILADELPHIA, PA. - Harmony Cross, Miss NCCU 2012-13 and a former North Carolina Central University track and field student-athlete, has been crowned Miss Black Philadelphia USA 2015. Cross currently works as a student affairs administrator at Widener University. She earned her master’s degree from Temple University’s Education Leadership program, and her bachelor’s degree in public administration from NCCU in 2013. During her time at NCCU, Cross was a member of the track & field team during her freshman year in 2009-10, primarily competing in the long jump, high jump and 60-meter hurdles. As Miss NCCU, Cross was featured in Ebony Magazine’s HBCU Campus Queens spread, developed a mentoring organization on her campus entitled Lady Eagle Development, and founded NCCU’s Annual Women Empowerment Symposium, which was created to uplift the school’s female population through healthy conversations with world-renowned speakers and entertainers. Cross is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and will be representing the city of Philadelphia in the Miss Black Pennsylvania USA 2016 Pageant. As Miss Black Philadelphia USA 2015, Cross will be speaking to urban youth and young adults about personal development, goal setting and achievement. She will be documenting her reign through her Miss Black Philadelphia USA Facebook Page. The Miss Black Pennsylvania USA Scholarship Pageant is the official preliminary for Pennsylvania residents to compete in the Miss Black USA pageant.
JOHNSON C. SMITH NAMES BUILDING FOR FORMER SHAW PRESIDENT CHARLOTTE, NC - Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) formally recognized former Shaw University President Dr. Dorothy Cowser Yancy on April 11th by renaming the Information and Technology Hall on JCSU’s campus in her honor. In 2013, Shaw renamed its Institute for Health, Social and Community Research building the Dorothy Cowser Yancy Building in honor of Dr. Yancy’s tremendous contributions to the University.
FIRST NORTH CAROLINA GLAXOSMITHKLINE FOUNDATION STEM PROGRAM SCHOLAR GRADUATES
DURHAM, NC – Kendall Kennedy, a North Carolina Central University biology major, has become the first of the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation STEM grant recipients to graduate. Kennedy, who earned his bachelor’s degree in May 2015, enrolled in fall 2012 after NCCU received the $1.5 million grant to increase the number of graduates with degrees in science, technology, engineering and math, also known as the STEM disciplines. Kennedy’s demanding schedule allowed him to graduate within three years with a 3.7 GPA. He served as president of the Golden Key International Honor Society and as vice president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. With support from the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation grant, Kennedy was able to live on NCCU’s campus in summer 2014 while commuting daily to Duke University to complete his internship requirements. A native of Charlottesville, Va., Kennedy continues a family legacy of strong academic performance at North Carolina Central University. Both of his parents received undergraduate and law degrees from the university. He was recently hired as a research assistant in a breast cancer laboratory at Duke University’s Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology. Kennedy plans to continue his education and matriculate into medical school next year. Photo: Kennedy is pictured with Marilyn Foote-Hudson, executive director of the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation. (submitted photo)
SAINT AUGUSTINE’S UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR LYNNE JEFFERSON CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN SELECTIVE “SLAVE NARRATIVES” SEMINAR
Raleigh, NC – Dr. Lynne T. Jefferson, Saint Augustine’s University associate professor and chair of the Department of English, is one of a select group of faculty members nationwide chosen by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History to participate in a special American history seminar on “Slave Narratives.” The multidisciplinary seminar for faculty members in history, English, and related fields will use the slave narratives - as well as some other assigned secondary reading - to comprehend the lived experience of slaves themselves in the transition from bondage to freedom. From a pool of 83 highly competitive nominations, 27 faculty members were selected to participate in the seminar, which will be held at Yale University June 21–25, 2015.
SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | June 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
CHERRY GROVE PARK PLAYGROUND GETS A SPRING FACELIFT
DURHAM, NC - Look for a fresh new look over the summer holidays at the Cherry Grove Park Playground at The
and mulched grounds around the facility’s standing attractions. The Durham Rotary Club coordinated the effort and recruited volunteers as part of its Centennial “100 Acts of Service Above Self” campaign across the city. “Providing a fresh clean attractive playground is more fun for the kids and builds a better sense of community pride,” said David Reese, President and CEO, EDCI.
Shepherd’s House United Methodist Church, 107 N. Driver St., in east Durham. Nearly 20 volunteers from The Durham Rotary Club and The East Durham Children’s Initiative painted the playground’s perimeter fencing on May 16, and removed weeds, raked
Volunteers also helped EDCI personnel organize a wide range of books, educational materials, clothing, food, toys and other supplies used by EDCI in its ongoing community efforts. “It was amazing to see what a few energized volunteers can do in a short period,” said EDCI’s Cate Elander. “This reorganization will help us enhance efficiency when providing service.”
DURHAM PARKING VIOLATION INCREASE BEGINS JULY 1
Rapid Growth and Increasing Space Demands Drive Changes in Downtown DURHAM, NC — Tickets for parking longer than the posted time in onstreet spaces will soon cost more. Effective July 1, 2015, parking violations will double in Durham, from $10 to $20. The increase is a result of more demand for on-street parking created by a growing downtown, with new businesses, hotels, restaurants, and apartments. City officials hope the ticket increase will encourage parking space turnover to better accommodate short-term visitors and guests to downtown establishments. A recent City study showed that parking demands in the downtown area were at, or very near, capacity during peak conditions, and recommended increasing fines for on-
street parking violations. As an alternative to on-street parking, downtown visitors may also use City parking garages or surface parking lots for $1 per hour. A map of these parking facilities can be found on the www. durhamnc.gov. Lanier Parking Solutions, which manages the City’s parking facilities and downtown on-street parking, will also be responsible for the enforcement of on-street parking time limits. A one-month grace period throughout June is planned to help inform visitors and customers of the increased parking violation penalty. After the grace period ends, $10 parking citations will be increased to $20 and issued to vehicles that remain in the marked on-street parking spaces for longer than the posted limits. For additional information about parking services, visit the www.durhamnc.gov or contact Lanier Parking Solutions at (919) 680-2481.
Along with the park clean up, the Rotary Club is supporting EDCI’s summer lunch program providing free lunch to families in the EDCI zone of East Durham. Learn more at www.durhamrotaryclub.org
NORTH EAST BAPTIST CHURCH JUNE OBSERVANCES North East Baptist Church 3204 NC Hwy. 55 Durham, NC. (919) 544-2142 (Church Office) Rev. Wesley Elam – Pastor * June 15th - 19th - Annual Revival at 7:00 PM. Revivalist: Rev. Dr. Nilous M. Avery, II, Pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Salisbury, NC; President of NC General Baptist State Convention, Inc. * June 21st - Father’s Day observed at 10:45 AM Worship. Speaker, Rev. Delton Farmer. * June 22nd - 26th - Vacation Bible School 6:30-8:30 PM. Classes for children of all ages and adults. Refreshments each evening. * June 27th - North East hosts Prayer Day for Durham County Missionary Union at 10:00 AM.
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SCHOLARSHIPS FOR BLACK FARMERS AVAILABLE THROUGH BLACK FARMERS ASSOCIATION
The National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) has received an amazing gift. A grant of $100,000 was awarded to the association by FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) North America to support students who want to study agriculture at a two or four year college. Eligible students may apply to receive up to $5,000 in scholarships.
was the 1997 discrimination suit against the USDA. According to the association’s website, the resulting settlement in favor of 22,363 Black farmers was a landmark decision and “the largest-ever civil rights class action settlement in American history,” with a judgment for over $2 billion. The association felt this was a great victory, but was not fully-satisfied, as The NBFA is a non-profit whose sole over 70,000 Black farmers were excluded purpose is to represent Black farmers and from the lawsuit. Sadly, much of the their families through loans, training, awarded money still has not been paid rural economic development, and by the government, and the lawsuits and education and advocacy outreaches with struggles to get the money to the farmers a focus on civil rights. Fourth-generation continue. Black farmer John Boyd founded the NBFA in 1995 in Virginia. The life of a Black farmer is not easy. While the number of Black farmers Some of the major work the NBFA has increased in 2012 from 2007, almost 80 performed through the years includes percent of these farms had annual sales fighting for farm subsidies and trying of less than $10,000, with another 16 to get an equal share of the money for percent making less than $50,000. Only Black farmers. They also represent Black half of Black farmers reported having farmers who face massive discrimination internet connection. from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are often denied loans, Applications are available at the association’s aide and disaster assistance that White website www.nationalblackfarmersassociation. farmers receive. org/. The scholarship offer will end when 100 The most important victory of the NBFA
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UNC-CH TO DROP KKK LEADER’S NAME FROM BUILDING former UNCChapel Hill student. Board members said they looked at several names for the building, including Hurston Hall, but they felt Carolina Hall was a unifying name. CHAPEL HILL, NC — The Board of Trustees of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill voted 10-3 on May 28th to rename a building that, for more than 80 years, bore the name of a Confederate soldier and founder of the Ku Klux Klan in the state. William Lawrence Saunders, an 1854 UNC-Chapel Hill graduate, served as a colonel in the Civil War and eventually went on to become North Carolina’s secretary of state. In 1922, UNC named the building, which originally housed the history department, for Saunders because he was instrumental in getting the state’s colonial records published. In May, the board resolved to change the building name to Carolina Hall, saying that “the university made an error” in considering Saunders’ Klan leadership as a qualification for the honor. “The Klan was a violent terrorist organization,” the trustees wrote in the resolution for the change. Student and faculty activists showed up to the board meeting wearing #hurstonhall shirts, lobbying for the building to be renamed after Zora Neal Hurston, a famous black author and
applications are received and approved.
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Officials didn’t set a schedule for removing Saunders’ name from the building, but the name change will include a marker located on or near the building that explains who Saunders was, his role in state and university history and the changing politics that prompted the name change.
GOVERNOR MCCRORY ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF NEW RESOURCE GUIDE AND WEBSITE FOR NC VETERANS RALEIGH, NC — Governor Pat McCrory announced recently the release of a new NC4VETS printed resource guide and new updated website that focuses on federal VA benefits as well as opportunities for employment, education, health care, housing and personal services for North Carolina veterans. “Veterans and their families have made significant sacrifices in serving our country,” said Governor McCrory. “The new NC4Vets guide and website are designed to make sure our veterans have access to the benefits and services they have earned as well as providing them with opportunities to apply the
leadership, discipline and training they received while in the military.” North Carolina is home to approximately 800,000 veterans. The 2015 Guide has doubled in content from the 2014 guide, and contains more than 350 points of contact to employment and career services, more than 100 veteran focused non-profits and detailed information on how to work with a North Carolina Veterans Service Officer. The guide can be obtained by calling 1-844-nc4-vets or 1-844-624-8387. This information can also be obtained at www.NC4VETS. com.
GRANT TO HELP VETERANS EARN BACHELOR OF NURSING DEGREES AT NCCU DURHAM, NC – The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Department of Nursing will receive almost $1 million over the next three years from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for programs assisting veterans seeking Bachelor of Nursing degrees. The Veterans Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is funded by the federal Bureau of Health Professions to help colleges and schools modify BSN programs to meet the special needs of
veterans. NCCU will begin by offering additional support services for veterans and allow academic credit for relevant training and experience gained while enlisted. The grant funding will be distributed over three academic years - $349,983 in 2015-1016, $308,580 in 2016-2017, and $302,463 in 2017-2018. Elements of the program will include mentoring, faculty development, and academic and social support services.
2015 YOUNG ADVOCATES INSTITUTE GREENSBORO, NC - The North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NCCASA) now has Open Registration for the 2015 Young Advocates Institute, July 17-19, 2015 at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in Greensboro, NC. 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. This year NCCASA is bringing back the Adult Chaperone and Adult Youth Leader Training Series as a part of the 2015 Young Advocates Institute! The cost is $50 per participant and includes two (2) nights of dormstyled lodging, seven (7) meals, five (5) snacks, giveaways and training. Registration is now open. The firm deadline to submit a completed application is June 22, 2015. Important Information:
• Groups of 10 or more must be accompanied by one (1) adult chaperone. The chaperone must agree to stay on the campus of North Carolina A & T University, July 17-19, 2015, and must complete a separate registration packet • Please know that this is a service learning experience and participants must stay for the ENTIRE Institute. Attendees will not be allowed to leave. • Six (6) scholarships will be offered, on a first come first served basis, to youth in need of financial assistance. If your child or group needs financial assistance, please complete the scholarship form enclosed. • All completed applications must include all forms in their entirety, signatures by a parent or guardian, and the $50 commitment fee for each participant including chaperone/adult youth leaders. Make all checks or money orders payable to NCCASA. Please don’t send cash. • CANCELLATION POLICY: Full refund is ONLY given for cancellation of registration received by June 22, 2015. • Incomplete applications will not be considered for participation. • Attendees will be notified of their confirmed participation on or before June 29, 2015. For more information, contact Tracy D. Wright at (919) 871-1015/ youngadvocates@nccasa.org
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SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | June 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
SPORTS
BALLIN’ OUT
Proposals Tweaked
By Lawrence “King Law” Davis
The committee has tweaked two of its timeout-centric recommendations for next season. The panel will discuss the potential rule changes during a conference call scheduled for June 24. Under the new proposal, one media timeout in televised games would be permitted for each quarter. Media timeouts would occur at the first dead ball at or below the five-minute mark of each quarter and at the end of the first and third quarters. However, if a team calls timeout before the fiveminute mark, that would be treated as the media timeout. Additionally, the first called team timeout in the second half would be treated as a full media timeout. In the proposed format change, teams would have four timeouts (three 30-second timeouts and one 60-second timeout). A team may use the 60-second timeout at the discretion of the coach during the first or second half of the game. Teams would be allowed to carry over three of those timeouts into the second half. The committee’s original proposal recommended that teams be allowed to carry only two timeouts into the second half.
By Lawrence Davis Women’s and men’s college basketball will look markedly different next season — which is how the game’s powerbrokers want it. A month after drastic changes were proposed by the basketball rules committee, affecting everything from the length of the shot clock to the amount of timeouts given to each team, those proposed changes have been officially adopted.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
NCAA women’s basketball games will be played in four 10-minute quarters next season. The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved moving the game to the new format and away from the 20-minute halves the sport has always used in NCAA competition on a conference call Monday, June 8, 2015. The NCAA Women’s Basketball Rules Committee, which initially recommended the rule change, believes the four-quarter format will enhance the flow of the game. The change also was endorsed by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Board of Directors. Teams will now reach the bonus and shoot two free throws on the fifth team foul in each quarter. Previously, teams reached a one-and-one bonus on the seventh team foul of each half and reached the double bonus (two shots) on the 10th team foul. In the four-quarter format, team fouls reset to zero at the start of each quarter. However, if a team reaches the bonus in the fourth quarter, that team would remain in the bonus during any additional overtime periods.
Advancing The Ball
The panel approved a rule that allows teams to advance the ball to the frontcourt following a timeout immediately after a made basket in the last 59.9 seconds of the fourth quarter and any overtime periods. Teams also will be allowed to advance the ball to the frontcourt after securing the ball from a rebound or a change of possession. In these scenarios, the ball would be inbounded at the 28foot mark on the side of the court where the scorer’s table is located.
Each team would be awarded one 30-second timeout in each overtime period, plus any unused timeouts remaining from the second half. In non-televised games, teams would have five timeouts (three 30s and two 60s). As many as four of the timeouts could carry over into the second half. The committee also recommended that, in the last two minutes of the game, officials can determine whether a shot-clock violation occurred by looking at when the clock runs down to zero in addition to listening for when the buzzer sounds.
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MEN’S BASKETBALL
The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved a package of proposals and areas of focus for officials in men’s basketball to improve the pace of play, better balance offense with defense and reduce the physicality in the sport. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Committee made similar recommendations before the 201314 season, and it felt the changes improved the game. But after gaining some positive traction, the balance between offense and defense again tilted toward the defense last season. Scoring in Division I men’s basketball dipped to 67.6 points a game last season, which neared historic lows for the sport. The key areas officials will focus on in the upcoming season are: • Perimeter defense, particularly on the dribbler and strictly enforcing directives established before the 2013-14 season. • Physicality in post play. • Screening, particularly moving screens and requiring the screener to be stationary. • Block/charge plays. • Allowing greater freedom of movement for players without the ball.
Pace Of Play
With an eye on reducing inaction, the panel approved several proposals to improve the pace of play. The most significant is reducing the shot clock to 30 seconds. The shot clock was last reduced for the 1993-94 season when it went from 45 seconds to 35.
The committee made the initial recommendation because it felt this change would add more excitement to offensive possessions at the ends of games because teams would no longer be required to travel the length of the court after inbounding the ball.
Teams will also have one fewer team timeout (only three can carry over instead of four) in the second half. Officials will focus more on resuming play quickly after a timeout and will issue a delay-of-game warning when a team does not comply and a one-shot technical foul on subsequent violations.
10-Second Backcourt Exceptions
The rest of the package designed to improve the pace of play includes: • Adjusting the media timeout procedures to allow a timeout called within 30 seconds of a break (at the 16:30 mark) or at any time after the scheduled media timeout becomes the media timeout. • Removing the ability for a coach to call timeout when the ball is live. • Allowing a total of only 10 seconds to advance the ball to the front court (with a few exceptions). • Reducing the amount of time allotted to replace a disqualified player from 20 to 15 seconds.
NCAA women’s basketball implemented the 10-second backcourt rule during the 2013-14 season. For the upcoming season, a team will not receive a new 10-second backcourt count when a throw-in results from the following: • The ball is deflected out of bounds by the defense. • There is a held ball and the possession arrow favors the offensive team. • A technical foul is called on the offensive team while the ball is in its backcourt.
Post Defense
The panel approved a new rule that allows defenders to place a forearm or an open hand with a bend in the elbow on an offensive post player with the ball whose back is to the basket.
Bands And Amplified Music
In an effort to improve the overall fan experience, bands or amplified music may be played during any dead-ball situation during a women’s basketball game. Previously, rules allowed music to be played only during timeouts and intermission.
Restricted-Area Arc
The panel also approved the expansion of the restricted-area arc from 3 feet to 4 feet. This arc would be effective in 2015-16 for Division I and 2016-17 for Divisions II and III. Moving the arc a foot farther from the basket is part of a continued focus on reducing the number of collisions at the basket. Games in the 2015 Postseason NIT were played with the 4-foot arc on an experimental basis.
Sports CONTINUES ON PAGE 34
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Sports CONTINUES When compared to the 2013 NIT, which had the same block/charge standards as the 2015 event (aside from the 4-foot arc), the number of block/charge plays decreased from 2.77 per game to 1.96 per game.
Faking Fouls
During the use of a video review to see if a possible flagrant foul occurred, the panel approved a rule that would allow officials to penalize players who fake fouls. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Rules Committee felt that players trying to draw fouls by deception is a growing issue.
Other Changes
Other proposals approved by the panel include: • Allowing officials to use the monitor to review a potential shot clock violation on made field goals throughout the entire game. • Making Class B technical fouls (hanging on the rim and delaying the resumption of play, for example) one-shot technical fouls. Previously, two shots were granted for these types of technical fouls. • Eliminating the five-second closely guarded rule while dribbling the ball. • Removing the prohibition on dunking in pregame warm-ups and at halftime.
Experimental Rule
The panel also approved an experimental rule to allow players six personal fouls, instead of five, in the 2016 postseason tournaments other than the Division I Men’s Basketball Championship. (Source: NCAA.com)
SPORTS NEWSBRIEFS LAMONTE JOINS NCCU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACHING STAFF
DURHAM, NC – North Carolina Central University head coach Vanessa Taylor has announced the hiring of L’Tona Lamonte as Assistant Head Coach for the women’s basketball program. Lamonte joins the Lady Eagles coaching staff after serving as an assistant coach at Belmont University for the two past seasons. Lamonte is returning to the Triangle area after spending the past two years in Tennessee as she was the Director of Basketball Operations at North Carolina State University in Raleigh for four seasons from 2009 to 2013. Lamonte has spent a total of 13 years of in DI athletics. Before Belmont and NCSU, Lamonte was an assistant coach at Western Carolina University for five seasons (2004-09) and Georgia Southern University for two years (1999-2001). In her time with the NCSU Wolfpack, Lamonte managed the daily operations of the women’s basketball office including fundraising, public relations, community service, marketing, budgeting, travel, compliance and academics. She raised over $50,000 annually to support the Kay Yow Foundation. Lamonte grew up in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and she stayed local as a two sport student-athlete at Winston-Salem State University. She is in the NCAA softball history book in five different categories and led the nation in stolen bases her junior season with the Rams. The sports management major graduated cum laude with her bachelor’s of science degree in 1999. Lamonte obtained a master’s degree in kinesiology from Georgia Southern in 2003. Lamonte is married to Donald Lamonte and is the mother of three girls: Tyler, Kamry and Kadence. ____________________________________________________________
SHAW UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS NAMES JOEL HOPKINS AS MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH
Raleigh, NC – Shaw University’s Athletics Department introduced Joel Hopkins as its new head coach of men’s basketball during a press conference on June 9th. Hopkins began his duties as head coach on June 1, 2015. Hopkins, a native of Bunn, North Carolina, previously served as Shaw’s men’s basketball head coach from 2000-2002. Hopkins returns to lead a program that he guided to the top of the conference with a two year record of 43-15. In 2002, he led the men’s basketball team to their first ever CIAA Tournament Championship, and a berth in the 2002 NCAA Basketball Regionals. That team
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would eventually compete in the Division II Elite Eight Tournament and concluded that season with a loss in the semi-finals. A graduate of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), Hopkins was a member of the school’s 1989 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championship team. He would eventually become the head coach at Mt. Zion Christian Academy in Durham, NC (1992-2000), where he would lead the prep basketball program to an astounding 200-39 record. His ability to identify talent and player development led to the rise of Shaw basketball in 2000. Under his leadership, numerous players led the nation in various statistical categories, including the selection of Shaw’s Ronald Murray as NCAA Division II Player of the Year (2001-02). The team was ranked in the top 20 for the first time in history and garnered Hopkins honors as NCAA Division II Coach of the Year (2001-02), among other coaching accolades. Hopkins has coached several players that were later drafted to the NBA and has mentored countless others. Hopkins is married to Gia Hopkins, and is the father of five children and two grandchildren. ____________________________________________________________
DUKE BASKETBALL HONORED BY NC GENERAL ASSEMBLY
RALEIGH, NC - The North Carolina General Assembly honored the Duke men’s basketball team and coaching staff May 20th in Raleigh, NC. While seated in the Senate Chamber of the Legislative Building, members of the legislature passed Senate Joint Resolution 714 to recognize the efforts of the team during the 2014-15 season and its national championship run. NC State Senators (left) Floyd McKissick, Throughout the session, members (D-20), (2nd from right) Dan Blue (D-14) of the legislature spoke and shared and (right) Mike Woodard, (D-21) welcome anecdotes as the Duke coaching Duke men’s basketball head coach Mike staff, comprised of head coach Mike Krzyzewski (2nd from left) to the NC Krzyzewski, associate head coach Jeff General Assembly. (Photo: Courtesy of Duke Photography) Capel and assistant head coaches Nate James and Jon Scheyer, listened intently. Following the remarks from the various legislatures, Krzyzewski addressed those in attendance, showing appreciation for the honor and sharing his views on the importance of education in the state of North Carolina. ___________________________________________________________
HOLT ON 2016 BALLOT FOR COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
RALEIGH, NC - Wolfpack legend Torry Holt is on the 2016 ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, the National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame announced in early June. Holt, who was inducted into the NC State Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013, was the 1998 ACC Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the year and was a consensus first-team All-American following his senior campaign. He finished eighth in the Heisman Trophy voting -- the only wide receiver to finish in the top 10 -- and was a finalist for the ‘98 Bilitnikoff Award. The Gibsonville, N.C., native set school records that still stand for single season receptions (88), single game receptions (15), career record for receiving yards (3,379), single season receiving yards (1,604, singlegame receiving yards (255), career touchdown receptions (31), single season touchdown receptions (16), single-game touchdown receptions (5) and career all-purpose yardage (1,979). His No. 81 jersey has been retired. A two-time first-team All-ACC performer, Holt set the league’s singleseason receiving yards mark and still ranks sixth in ACC history in career receiving yards. A first-round draft pick of the St. Louis Rams, Holt spent 12 years in the NFL and was a seven-time Pro Bowl performer. He retired with the 10th-most receiving yards in NFL history and set an NFL record with six consecutive 1,300+ yard campaigns. He was a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year. Since his retirement from football, he has founded and serves as chair of the Holt Brothers Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit that supports programs for children who have a parent with cancer. He and his brother Terrence, who was also a Wolfpack All-American, own and operate a successful construction and development company in Raleigh.
King Law
Lawrence “King Law” Davis III Lawrence “King Law” Davis is a Business Administration major and Asst. Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Sanderson High School in Raleigh. He can be reached at lawdavis@spectacularmag.com
SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | June 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
LIFESTYLES
Durham Links Host Annual Shades Of Green Fashion Show And Luncheon
DURHAM, NC – The Durham Chapter of the Links, Inc. successfully hosted over 450 women
in addition to all of the chapter members worked hard to make this event spectacular.
for the annual Shades of Green Fashion Show and Luncheon on Saturday, March 21st at the Durham Convention Center. It was a beautiful day, with beautiful people, high
Run-way designs were coordinated by Felicia Farrar, award winning designer who worked with the late Whitney Huston and Elizabeth Shue. Model coordinator was Heir-O-Lin, Portia Kee. Celebrity Emcee was national recording artist Clare Batheand entertainment was provided by Yolanda Rabun.
fashion, shopping, and fellowship. Anita Daniels, President, the committee chairs, Michelle Stanback, Betty Blackmon and Gloria Quick,
Highlights
Photos: Rick Crank
Proceeds will benefit the community programs supported by the Durham Chapter of the Links that focus on education, health and cultural and civic endeavors.
www.spectacularmag.com | June 2015 | SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
JUNE IS MEN’S HEALTH MONTH
June is Men’s Health Month and the purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. Recognizing and preventing men’s health problems is not just a man’s issue because of its impact on wives, mothers, daughters, and sisters. Men’s health is truly a family issue. Unfortunately, most men don’t pay attention to their health. Compared to women, men are more likely to 1) smoke and drink 2) make unhealthy or risky choices 3) put off regular checkups and medical care, and 4) not take medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider. There are also health conditions that only affect men, such as prostate cancer and low testosterone. Many of the major health risks that men face like colon cancer or heart disease can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. Screening tests can find diseases early, when they are easier to treat. It’s important to get the screening tests you need such as colonoscopy or prostate cancer screening. Dr. Arnett Coleman, an Internist at Duke Primary Care Croasdaile states, “Screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer are
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important for early detection. I urge men to ask their doctor about appropriate tests to check for diseases and to ensure that they are participating in preventative measures and taking care of their health”
FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO: HealthyPeople.gov Blackdoctor.org cdc.gov/men/ Health Tip is a message from Community Health Coalition, Inc. and is written in partnership with Durham Academy of Medicine, Dentistry & Pharmacy, Central Carolina Black Nurses’ Council Inc., NC Mutual Life Insurance Company, The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Durham and Vicinity, and Duke Regional Hospital.
SPECTACULAR MAGAZINE | June 2015 | www.spectacularmag.com
BRIDES: PERSONAL STYLE FOR A VERY TRADITIONAL EVENT By Samantha Huntley
Weddings are all about the bride. Every detail of the momentous occasion reflects her personality and style. Making a perfect first impression is the mission of every bride who is going to walk down the aisle. The Hair, The Dress, well, she’s got to nail them both to make her mission possible. For this project, ZIEN SALON teamed up with Fashion Stylist April Clark. We worked with two young ladies and discovered that it didn’t matter how traditional, vintage, or high fashion she considers her style to be, a veil would not be making an appearance on either of the ladies’ big day! Samara’s beautiful tress of cascading tendrils (curls) is adorned by a headband of crystal embroidered loops. The crystal embroidered headband exclaims this brides traditional, yet nontraditional personal style while adding a vibe that is rimless. One Styling Verge Curl Styx Iron with three interchangeable barrels and Influance Firm Holding Spray were used to form Samara’s beautiful tendrils.
The Traditional with a Twist bride loves the pomp and circumstance but incorporates modern elegance and pops of color for her big day. This bride loves a long gown with fashion elements and jewelry to make her stand out even more! You can find this bride at a grand ballroom, church or upscale restaurant for her nuptials. (Model: Samara Scott
| Dress: Alex Evening, Belk Crabtree Valley Mall | Shoes: Madden Girl, Shoe Carnival | Jewelry: Statement (necklace), Vince Camuto (earrings), Belk Crabtree Valley Mall)
These modern brides have no reason to be apologetic for owning and celebrating their personal style for such a traditional event because they look absolutely stunning. Brides-to-be, visit us at ZIEN SALON for a bridal hair consultation. Mention Spectacular Magazine and receive a 10% discount on your bridal hair service and/or Influance hair products. Photos: Cammel Hurse Stylist: April Clark
Vintage or High Fashion! Tiffany is a fashionista struggling to commit to either style for her big day. So, we played with both. A side-swept bang perfectly contours into an off centered Jewel chignon (a hair bun), declaring her style to be vintage with a modern twist. One Styling Legacy Flat Iron was used to create the foundation (loose curls to create body) for Tiffany’s contoured mane.
The Second Time Around Bride opts for different colors typically blush, peach or pink in various lengths. She is traditional at heart but shies away from the big poofy white dress for her big day. You might find her getting married in a garden, country chapel or city park. (Model: Tiffany
A crystal hair jewel hugs a reverse twist (a ponytail rolled up and pulled towards the front of the head) that creates a soft ridge flowing into a gorgeous wave. One Styling’s Legacy Flat Iron was used to curl her hair and add body. I n f l u a n c e ’s Firm Holding Spray allowed me to sculpt, mold and detail my way to Tiffany’s high-fashion finished look.
Hayes |Dress: Maggy London, Belk Crabtree Valley Mall | Shoes: Steve Madden, Shoe Carnival | Jewelry: Betsy Johnson (earrings, necklace), Erica Lyons (bracelet), Belk Crabtree Valley Mall)
Book your appointment with ZIEN SALON today and explore the Chameleon in you. 323 West Main Street Durham NC. 27701 (919-667-1752) contact us at: ZIENSALON.com Zienzien6@gmail.com Ziensalon at Instagram Zienzien at Facebook
Samantha Huntley
The Fashionista Bride looks for fashion forward elements like sequins! She channels her inner Carrie Bradshaw and has fun with fashion on her big day! This unconventional bride might be found in a swanky Vegas setting or on a rooftop ceremony overlooking the cityscape downtown. (Model: Tiffany Hayes | Dress: Vince Camuto, Belk Crabtree Valley Mall | Shoes: Touch of Nina, Shoe Carnival | Jewelry: Kate Spade (necklace), Vince Camuto (earrings), Belk Crabtree Valley Mall)
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ENTERTAINMENT NATIONAL BLACK THEATRE FESTIVAL® RETURNS TO WINSTON-SALEM, NC WITH STAR-STUDDED PERFORMANCES WINSTON-SALEM, NC – The National Black Theatre Festival® (NBTF) will once again be held in the city of the arts Winston-Salem, North Carolina Monday August 3rd - Saturday August 8th.
musical will open the festival following a star-studded opening night gala. Gregory took audiences by storm with his portrayal of Wilson in the Jackie Wilson Story during two previous festivals. This year’s festival offers a wide range of theatrical performances including drama, comedies, musicals, choreoplays and multi-media productions. The shows will include celebrity performances throughout the week, featuring actors like Rain Pryor, daughter of famed comedian Richard Pryor, Dorien Wilson, Tommy Ford, Roscoe Orman, Vanessa Bell-Calloway, Debbi Morgan, theatre icon, Andre De Shields and many more. Officials say there is something for everyone this year.
The NBTF is one of the most historic and culturally significant events in the history of black theatre and is produced by The North Carolina Black Repertory Company (NCBRC). NBTF is the only theatre festival in the country offering six consecutive days of professional theatre. Other components of the festival include workshops, a reader’s theatre of new works, a film festival, a poetry jam, a youth celebrity project, a vendor’s market, and The International Colloquium. NBTF officials have also created exciting events for teens during Festival week with TEENtastic. Events include a dance contest, a gospel music workshop and concert, formal event and much more. Officials say over 60,000 people are expected to attend the event, along with celebrities from stage, screen, and television. The event has more than a $10 million impact on the economy of Winston-Salem, known as Black Theatre Holy Ground!
“We are so excited about all of our main stage productions this year. Our selection committee did an excellent job. The talent we will be bringing to the 2015 NBTF will be Marvtastic and will reach audiences of all ages” said Sylvia Sprinkle Hamlin, Executive Producer NBTF.
Actors Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams will serve as celebrity co-chairs. The NBTF is also proud to bring back, Broadway actor and festival-favorite Chester Gregory in his show The Eve of Jackie: A Tribute to Jackie Wilson. This dynamic
NBTF is the international outreach program of the North Carolina Black Repertory Company, founded by the late Larry Leon Hamlin in 1979. The Festival, also founded by Hamlin, has been held biennially since 1989. The event attracts thousands of national and international patrons, theatre professionals and scholars to Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It was named one of the Top 100 events in North America by the American Business Association. This is the only national black theater festival in the country offering six consecutive days of professional theater, film, poetry, workshops, seminars and shopping. For additional information and a schedule of events, call the festival office at (336) 723-2266, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or visit us online at www.nbtf. org.
JUNE DESIGNATED AS CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
In June 2005 the House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution designating the month of June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. The resolution was subsequently passed by the Senate on February 14, 2006, and the White House has annually proclaimed June as a time to celebrate Caribbean American Heritage.
Caribbean is therefore also quite varied but was crucial to the development of the US. The United States’ relationship with the Caribbean became a high priority after the purchase of the Louisiana territory: since the Caribbean was the primary passageway to and from the American heartland’s port of New Orleans it was crucial that the US had access to it. Thus, during the 19th century the US tried to gain control of various The National Consortium joins in the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the passage islands governing the passageway, which would have also allowed it to capitalize on the of the resolution by the House of Representatives by commemorating some of the lucrative goods that the Caribbean produced. important contributions that Caribbean Americans have made to the United States’ history and culture: After the Spanish-American war of 1898 the US had gained control over Cuba, Puerto • Alexander Hamilton - Influential Founding Father, First Secretary of the Rico, the Bahamas, and other islands as colonies. This allowed the US to control the Treasury, aide to George Washington, and writer of the Federalist Papers, Hamilton was area surrounding its newly-built Panama Canal.8 Haiti, the first European colony in New born out of wedlock on the Caribbean island of Nevis. Hamilton later emigrated as a World to gain independence, was occupied by the US from 1915 until 1934, allegedly to teenager from the Virgin Islands after the death of his mother there. protect US citizens and interests located there.9 Since 1960 the US has maintained • Colin Powell - the first person of color to serve as Secretary of State, Powell a trade embargo with the nation of Cuba,10which was modified last year. Caribbean also served as Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a four-star general. Powell’s Americans inherit a unique part of US history, and a rich diversity of origins. parents emigrated from Jamaica to Harlem, New York. • W.E.B. Du Bois - American sociologist, civil rights activist, and co-founder of Today, the Caribbean has become a unique place to examine how different people groups the NAACP in 1909, Du Bois was also the first black person to graduate from Harvard interact with the US and other world powers politically. Puerto Rico and the Bahamas with a doctorate. Du Bois’ father emigrated from Haiti. are US Commonwealths, meaning they hold joint sovereignty with the US, while the US • Sidney Poitier - The first black actor to win an academy award, Poitier is also Virgin Islands maintain themselves as a US Territory. Other islands identify themselves a successful director, Bahamian ambassador to Japan, and winner of the US Presidential as Associates or Departments of other nations. Still other islands exercise independent Medal of Freedom. control of their lands. • Caribbean Americans also include current giants of American pop culture Nicki Minaj and Beyoncé Knowles. Nicki Minaj, a chart-topping rapper and singer, was born This month, the National Consortium celebrates the contributions that Caribbean Americans have made to the development of the United States and remembers the in Trinidad. Megastar singer-songwriter Beyoncé Knowles’ father emigrated from the diverse history of US-Caribbean relations. The National Consortium encourages all Bahamas. Americans to do the same. It also must be recognized that the heritage of Caribbean Americans is as diverse and complex as the 7,000 islands located in the region.7 The US relationship with the
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