Summer 2019 issue of THE HUB Mag by THE HUB Magazine

SUMMER 2019 | www.sacculturalhub.com

CENTERSTAGE: BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP,

OAKLANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

RYAN COOGLER VISIONARY FILMMAKER p. 10

Spotlight on

BLACK COMEDIANS In NorCal p. 34

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FOUNDER’S ROOM | LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LET’S GET ORGANIZED… AND LET’S GET SOME THINGS DONE! I am making a focused effort this year to get more organized and stay on schedule with things. (I can just hear some of my Sac Hub team laughing out loud, while some others are lifting their hands up and praising Jesus.). While I don’t always hit the mark, I think it is VERY IMPORTANT for ALL of us to set and keep goals, and stay on schedule. Life will always throw something our way, but LIFE WILL ALWAYS staying on top of things makes THROW SOMETHING managing distractions SO much easier. OUR WAY, BUT STAYING ON TOP OF THINGS MAKES Our 2019 Black Men In MANAGING DISTRACTIONS Leadership honorees are SO MUCH EASIER. certainly setting an example Finally, and before I forget, let’s remember our for that! They are leaders in fathers and father figures on Father’s Day, and all every sense of the word. And this year. I am blessed to have a dad who made a real issue of THE HUB Magazine also difference in my and my sister’s lives, and continues to includes some of NorCal’s best in the make a difference! music and comedy arenas. There might not be a better example of Black Men In Leadership than Oakland’s Ryan Coogler, who is setting Hollywood and the entire entertainment industry on FIRE! Take a look at our feature on Coogler. I know you will agree with me: there are many reasons for us all to be proud of one of Oakland’s favorite sons.

With all of the talk about “fake news” in the mainstream media, and images of our men often being so negative and disturbing, we know that many African American men have and will continue to STAND STRONG and do what they need to do to take care of our children! Those who do should and will be honored!

Hopefully, by the time you read this, summer will have actually arrived! (I am writing this column in the middle of a strange, May thunderstorm!) Before the summer season gets away from us, and in the spirit of keeping us on task, I wanted to remind you of the things that are ahead that WE (black people) should be aware of:

To the fathers — by way of biology, foster care, adoption, or community — we say THANK YOU!

•

Get your Real ID. Soon, you won’t be able to fly domestically without one. www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/realid

•

Prepare for the 2020 Census: census.ca.gov/about/

•

Get ready for next year’s caucuses, conventions, and the critical presidential election: latimes.com/politics/ la-na-pol--2020-election-key-dates-on-calendar20190514-story.html

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Peace and Blessings

Pleshette Robertson CEO and Founder Sac Cultural Hub Media Company and Foundation facebook.com/pleshettemarie

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CONTENTS Stand Up Comics LIVING IT Ust P

on the West Coa

48 50

ON BLACK 34 | SPOTLIGHT COMEDIANS ON THE WEST COAST

BLACK MUSIC 46 | RECOGNIZING STARS Shadia Powell | Hersh White | Glenn Jones

51 CREENPLAY INTERVIEW WITH 51 | .SGINGER RUTLAND ON “WHEN WE WERE COLORED”

| .BLACK BOOK AUTHOR RICK MCPHERSON

61 | MASTERS CLUB CELEBRATION IN EVERY ISSUE

WHO IN TRANSIT 53 | WHO’S TECHNOLOGY

4 Founder’s Room 62 Michael’s Mind’s Eye: Check out DOCO!

WERE YOU THERE? H1 SPECIAL EVENT: DEAR 54 | VMAMA: A LOVE LETTER TO MOM

019 BILLBOARD MUSIC 55 | 2AWARDS 019 BLACK PHYSICIANS 56 | 2FORUM

DID YOU KNOW?

019 SOLDIERS SPRING YOUTH 50 | .THE ICONIC DIONNE WARWICK 58 | 2SUMMIT

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NTREPRENEURS EDGE 60 | ECONFERENCE

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66 Advertiser Index

Things To Do, Places To Go

BOOKMARK Sacculturalhub.com Inside every issue of THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine there are things to do, places to go and people to see, with a calendar of events, spotlight and feature articles on major event reviews, career profiles and business services. This magazine celebrates the urban lifestyle of African-Americans living in Northern California.

Northern California’s Most Popular Urban Entertainment Magazine ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY 2006 Mailing Address 7902 Gerber Road, #367 • Sacramento, CA 95828 Ph 916.234.3589 | Fax 866.302.6429 E-mail contact@sacculturalhub.com CHIEF EDITOR, CEO & FOUNDER – SACCULTURALHUB.COM Pleshette Robertson | pleshette@sacculturalhub.com ADVERTISING AND MARKETING TEAM Twlia Laster | 916.662.3502 • twlia@sacculturalhub.com Lesley Leatherwood | 916.838.9267 • lesley@sacculturalhub.com Michael P. Coleman | 916.715.2996 • mcoleman@sacculturalhub.com

Connect with African American professionals and families! Share your services, products and events with Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine ... your leading source of EXCITEMENT and Urban Entertainment News in Northern California.

NEWS REPORTERS Neketia Henry | Keadrian Belcher-Harris Donna Michele Ramos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael P. Coleman | Lesley Leatherwood | Valarie Scruggs ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Vicki Blakley PHOTOGRAPHY Rayford Johnson | Npaphoto.com 916.714.5840 Khiry Malik | Magiceyephotos.com 916.730.5405 Creative Touch Media Services (CT Media) Robert Briley – 916.579.1806 Tia Gemmell – phototia.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Heather Niemann | Tingible Design

COVER PHOTO: Shutterstock.com Circulation THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine has an estimated readership of more than 500,000 African American residents in Northern California. Copies are available at numerous storefront locations and distributed quarterly: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. Advertising THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine offers affordable rates to meet your business needs and marketing budget. Ads are due 45 days prior to the next issue. Call (916) 234-3589 or e-mail contact@ sacculturalhub.com. Letters to the Editor Letters should include the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Letters may be edited for

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space, clarity or style. Name and address may be withheld upon request. Mail to: THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine, 7902 Gerber Road, #367, Sacramento, CA 95828. THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine is printed quarterly in the United States. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the magazine. THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions in regard to content of ads in which events were cancelled or rescheduled, or phones that have changed abruptly.

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facebook.com/Sacculturalhub1 instagram.com/thehublive twitter.com/sachub916

YOUR Dental HEALTH Presented by Terri Speed, D.D.S.

TEETH WHITENING FOR SUMMER

We’re well into the warm months, and this time of year brings big events like graduations, weddings, vacations and family get-togethers. But with plenty of fun outdoor opportunities, there has never been a better time to consider teeth whitening for summer. Whether it’s a neighborhood party or high school reunion, presenting your radiant smile is sure to impress. From an office procedure to a purchasable toothpaste, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) Mouth Healthy site, you have options available to you. PROFESSIONAL BLEACHING PROCEDURES First, you need to determine if you qualify for whitening treatment, and which type is best for you. Do you have porcelain work or discolored front teeth? Is there currently decay on your front teeth? If any of these issues apply to you, consult with your dental professional before pursuing a whitening application. Professional whitening treatments vary. Some require dental impressions so the office can deliver trays that you can use to apply whitening gel in the comfort of your own home. Other systems use laser or ultraviolet light during in-office procedures to activate the whitening solution to your teeth applied by your dental professional. Because these types of whitening can take a few dental appointments to complete, summer is a great time to schedule these treatments before the kids go back to school and calendar gets busier. As always, your dental professional will help you choose which treatment is best for you, after considering all options for in-office tooth whitening. OVER-THE-COUNTER TREATMENT

T H I R D T H U R S DAYS 6 : 3 0 PM Enjoy food and music by the Beth Duncan Quartet starting at 5:30 PM.

THURSDAY, JUNE 27

MOTOSH I KOSAKO

Everyone wants a gleaming smile, and fortunately there are options available overthe-counter (OTC) to assist you in addition to those in the dental office. The ADA considers these safe and effective, and a good fit for multiple budgets. Whitening toothpastes are a great starting point if you are not ready to take the plunge into professional whitening treatments. Toothpastes like Colgate® Sensitivity Whiteningwork to remove stains caused by common foods such as coffee, tea and other dark-colored products. The whitening ingredient(s) in these products cut through surface stains and effectively improves the tooth’s natural color, while going easy on teeth that are prone to the sensitivity caused by stronger bleaching methods. This way, you won’t have to limit your consumption of cool summertime foods like ice cream and other frozen treats. MAINTAINING THE SHINE Once your teeth are whiter, you can maintain that healthy glow through routine dental checkups, proper home care including twice daily brushing with toothpase and flossing. Oral care can get dicey during the summer, with more outdoor snacks and activities keeping you away from a toothbrush. But on-the-go toothbrushes like the Colgate® Wisp® can keep your teeth cleaner after impromptu snacks on vacation. OTC mouthrinses have also been shown to produce results for consumers when used in conjunction with teeth whitening pens, which provide a convenient option for whitening with minimal sensitivity. Whitening pens can be packed easily in a purse or pocket for whitening on the go during busy summer travel days. Warm seasons are the perfect time of year to pursue teeth whitening for summer and to show off your bright summer grin. Through both in-office and at-home whitening products, you can remove those stains to uncover the luminous smile underneath. AUTHOR: Emily Boge, RDH, BS, MPAc https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/teeth-whitening/teeth-whitening-forsummer-0814

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Dr. Terri Speed is a family dentist in practice at 9098 Laguna Main St., Suite 4, in Laguna West.

www.terrispeeddds.com (916) 686-4212 T H E HUB MAGAZI NE | 7 |

ADVERTISEMENT | GUIDING FOSTER KIDS TO SUCCESS

Building strong units of love, devotion, friendship and support

THE HUB: Did you have any fears or reservations about adoption? And if so, what helped you overcome those fears? Burse: Yes, a lot, mostly from not feeling we had enough love to share. We were thinking we wouldn’t be enough for the kids.The kids helped us; they’d come home every day saying they loved us and missed us. THE HUB: How many children do you and your wife have? Burse: We adopted our two oldest, a son who is 8 ½ years old and a daughter who is 10 and they’ve been with us since January 2016. Our youngest is our biological child and is 2 ½ years old. THE HUB: What was the adoption process like for your two children? Burse: The process was chaotic in some ways also testing things as well. Since our home was a concurrent home, that’s a home that fosters children but can also adopt them later. We did 12 months of reunification and we were very supportive of that. After that, we went through the appeal process. It took a toll on us but it was going to be win-win for the kids either way. THE HUB: What are your favorite things about being a parent? Burse: A lot but one of the biggest is watching them grow, coming from the background they had, watching them flourish into the beautiful, healthy kids they are today. I cherish being able to put my small imprint on them. THE HUB: What was the biggest adjustment you had to make once you became a parent?

“Resource families,” provide love, parenting, stability and guidance to children who have been removed from their homes, until they can be reunited with their parents or moved to a permanent home, through adoption or guardianship to foster children. In the Sacramento area, there is an ongoing need to find and maintain resource families who can support foster children and their families. Homes are also needed for sibling sets, teenagers and children with medical needs. Most people may not be aware that, The Sacramento County Resource Family Approval (RFA) program supports, trains and offers guidance to resource families. Leon Burse and his wife Dykiesha answered the call and have welcomed children into their home.

Burse: In terms of the fostering aspect, being adaptable to changes in schedule and meeting deadlines on doctor’s visits, etc. After becoming parents, we could not just get up and go we had to think of these two little people first.

THE HUB: How long did you contemplate adoption before inquiring about the process?

Burse: We were very honored and humbled.The kids were on cloud 9 because we went through a year of appeals. Also, being recognized that day that we are a family. For me and my wife we didn’t do it to be recognized, we did it to become a family.

Burse: I didn’t contemplate much. I knew in the future I wanted to adopt; a youth seeked us out - me and my wife just took it. We wanted to help LGBTQ and African American children; that’s where our contemplation came in. | 8 | T H E HU B MA G A Z I N E

THE HUB: What would you advise for anyone thinking about adoption? Burse: Being flexible because things are forever changing. It’s an endless rollercoaster of uncertainty until things are actually certain. Be flexible and keep the child’s best interest in mind. THE HUB: Last November, you and your family were named Family of the Year for the National Adoption Day event at the State Capitol, what did this mean to your family?

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ADVERTISEMENT | GUIDING FOSTER KIDS TO SUCCESS THE HUB: Recently, you began working for Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services, what is your educational background, title and what do you do in your current position? Burse: I have a Bachelors, in Social Work. My intention is to get my Masters. My current position is Concurrent Planning Social Worker. Now I’m working with our RFA (Resource Family Approval) families inquiring about their parameters they set up for the kids they want to care for. Getting to know families apart from their paperwork along with getting to know what they can handle, trying to match off of that, giving youth two tracks to follow: reunification or staying in their concurrent home, to limit a lot of the moves they have to do. THE HUB: How do you help families who are going through the adoption/guardianship process? Burse: Handholding on my lived experience, processing what it will be like and how we can move past the fearful part they are in. THE HUB: What are your top three favorite things about your job?

THE HUB: If someone is thinking about adoption/fostering, what services does the County have to offer, that helps if they aren’t quite sure? Burse: Families can attend orientation, where they are given a wide overview of what to expect. I’m more than willing to meet with families. We really need families; RFA offers mentoring if families want it, they can call 916-875-5543. Below are links to the Sacramento County resource family info. THE HUB: Is there anything you’d like to add that we have not covered? Burse: We need to have more of the African American community step forward and take our African American children in their care. My kids said,“You’re my first foster family that looks like me.” Makes us think about how our life’s going. To learn more about local foster care opportunities and to become a resource/foster parent, please visit the Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services website, www.DCFAS.saccounty.net.

Burse: Shedding light on other kids that need homes, because lots of families want babies 0-5 years old. I enjoy the overall education. I am able to provide to families and connect with them rather than be just another social worker coming to their home.

Attend an Orientation Held From 6-8 p.m. every Tuesday at 3701 Branch Center Road, Conference Room 1, Sacramento. • Two-hour review of process, foster care system. • Opportunity to determine if being a resource family is right for your family.

Complete the Application • Includes employment status, income, and health condition. • Complete a background check.

Get Training • 12 hours of pre-approval training (4 classes over 2 weeks). • Learn about child development and trauma. • Complete CPR class, if needed.

5 Welcome Your New Family Member! • Typically takes 90 days to find out if you are approved for a license. • Social workers begin searching for a child that will be the best match for your home.

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Prepare for interviews • Three in home visits. • Social workers assess home safety and your ability to care for the child. • Extensive study that will approve you to provide foster and adopt a child.

Becoming a Resource Parent

Next Steps S UM M ER 2 0 1 9

916.875.5543

CENTERSTAGE

RYAN

COOGLER OAKLAND’S VISIONARY FILMMAKER By Contributing Writer, Michael P Coleman

n times of crisis, the wise build bridges, but the foolish build barriers.”

It’s a line from last year’s box office phenomenon Black Panther, directed the visionary filmmaker and Oakland native Ryan Coogler.

“WHEN YOU DO A HUGE MOVIE,” COOGLER SAID RECENTLY, “SOME PEOPLE GET THE WRONG IDEA THAT YOU’RE SELLING OUT. BUT I WANTED TO MAKE A MOVIE FOR THE PEOPLE.”

The list of accolades for Black Panther are almost too long to mention, but let’s touch on a few of them: the movie was 2018’s highest grossing film. It was the first of over 20 Marvel Studios movies to feature a black leading character. When he was hired by Disney, Coogler was 29 years old — the youngest director in Marvel’s history. Black Panther is also the highest grossing film by a black director ever, the highest-grossing film starring a primarily African American cast, and the highestgrossing solo superhero launch in history. But Black Panther didn’t just sell tickets: it changed minds. Most of us grew up in a world where we clamored | 1 0 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

for African American images that we could call our own, for heroes on the silver screen who looked like us. My all-time favorite superhero flick, and the one that’s credit for starting the modern reign of superheroes at the multiplex, Superman: The Movie, has just one black man in it, a pimp with a single line, spoken to the Man Of Steel: “Damn, Jim, that is a bad outfit!” T’Challa, Killmonger and the rest of Black Panther’s cast had decidedly more to say than that. And so does the 33-year-old Coogler. “When you do a huge movie,” Coogler said recently, “some people get the wrong idea that you’re selling out. But I wanted to make a movie for the people.” I would say that Coogler is on a “movie-for-thepeople” roll, as Black Panther followed the equally powerful Fruitvale Station, the true story of another Oakland native who was unarmed when he was shot in the back by a police officer, and Creed, which

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extended the Rocky franchise while exploring the dynamics of race, community, and family. “Fruitvale was about the community that I grew up in,” Coogler recently told TIME Magazine, “and I wanted nothing more than for people in commodities like that to see it.” Black Panther’s power also lies, ironically, in a lack of “black and white” characters. “We never wanted to say one character is right and the other wrong,” Coogler recently said. “You get into dangerous territory if you expect the art you make to change people’s minds. But if someone can watch a film and then go home and talk about it, that’s doing a lot.” Coogler is poised to continue to do “a lot,” as he’s using his clout in Hollywood to give platforms to a diverse group of filmmakers. He’s set to produce Space Jam 2, directed by Terence Nance and | 1 1 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

starring LeBron James, and to direct both a sequel to Black Panther and the film Wrong Answer, about an Atlanta public school cheating scandal. He remains steadfast in his determination to change Hollywood’s landscape, comparing the film industry to the National Basketball Association. “At some point,” Coogler told TIME, “someone thought it’s risky to put a black person on the court, that people wouldn’t buy tickets. Now owners are like, ‘I just want to win games, and I want the best player”. …I hope we’re transitioning from it even being a question to movies made by people of color or minorities are a risk.” I think we are. In fact, I think it’s much more risky NOT to hire a director like Ryan Coogler. n Connect with freelance writer Michael P Coleman at michaelpcoleman. com, or follow him on Twitter: @ColemanMichaelP

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BLACK WOMAN OWNED. LOCALLY PRODUCED. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED. Subscribe Today - 4 Fabulous Issues | Collectors Issues to Archive Forever

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

With assistance of our readers and users online along with our Board of Directors, THE HUB is proud to present its 12th annual special edition issue of highlighting the careers and accomplishments of Black Men in Leadership in our schools, communities, at work in their professions, and as husbands and fathers in our families! Every year after posting our online nominations form, it never ceases to amaze me with the great submissions we receive.

BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP 2019

KEILAND MAURICE HENDERSON BRANDON J. SMITH

RYAN C. MCCLINTON

RASHID SIDQE | 1 3 | T HE â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; H U B M A G A Z I N E

DR. ERIC V. GRAVENBERG

JAY KING

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DWIGHT TAYLOR, SR.

MALAKI SEKU AMEN

DAMANY M. FISHER, PH.D.

MILTON BOWENS

JULIUS MCINTYRE DR. ANGELO WILLIAMS

CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

MALAKI SEKU AMEN

CEO AND FOUNDER OF CA URBAN PARTNERSHIP Malaki Seku Amen (pronounced “ma-luck-eye / say-coo awemen”) currently serves as chief executive officer of the California Urban Partnership (CUP) – an organization that educates and organizes communities of color in order to improve public policy, win economic justice and build social enterprises that create jobs and wealth. Under Malaki’s leadership, the CUP developed ARIZE.org, an online directory platform now promoting local Black businesses, culture and community. In 2018, he was credited for being the lead community organizer and policy negotiator for the City of Sacramento’s Cannabis Opportunity, Reinvestment and Equity (CORE) program. This work resulted in the successful creation of a unique local and national model; to ensure that African Americans and other drug war victims benefit meaningfully from an emerging $55 billion dollar marijuana market in the United States. Before a shift and expansion of priorities in early 2017 (to address racialized enforcement of marijuana policies), Malaki led efforts to roll out the CUP’s Community Investment Initiative (CII), which is a community driven effort to build business incubators that link Sacramento’s neglected low income neighborhoods to food/agriculture, construction and tech industry clusters in the region. A 20 year veteran in community economic development, Malaki has pioneered innovative business support programs targeting low income neighborhoods, steered policy as a deputy chief of staff in the California Legislature, served as a Governor’s appointee to the state’s Technology, Trade and Commerce Agency, and advised Fortune 500 corporations in high stakes public affairs issues. One of Malaki’s first career-defining success stories was coordinating a chamber of commerce’s congressional lobbying efforts in 1990, which aimed to promote regional business incubation as a response to local military base closures. After producing Sacramento’s first (and award-winning) directory of Black businesses, professionals and community resources, he then co-authored grant proposals securing over $1.5 million in local and federal funding for the rehab of an abandoned 75,000 square foot commercial facility to house the Al Geiger Center for Business Incubation, and, a business development and technology skills training program with micro-loan fund serving low income residents in Sacramento. In 1993, Malaki joined the Center’s staff as the training program coordinator. Malaki holds a B.A. degree in Communications from California State University, Sacramento, and is a fellow of the John F. Kennedy School’s Senior Executive program at Harvard University.

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FAVORITES: Restaurant: Queen Sheba Ethiopian Cuisine (Sacramento), Simply Wholesome Café and Natural Foods Store (Los Angeles) Book: Lord of the Rings, by JRR Tolkien Cologne: Krizia Uomo Comedian: Redd Foxx Our Conversation: Status: Single Black woman you admire: Oprah Winfrey because she overcame many traumatic obstacles in life, and managed to become deeply committed and focused on reaching her greatest spiritual, mental and physical self while helping others do the same. To me, Oprah is the epitome of brilliance, health, power and wealth applied to compassion and Godly purpose. In the kitchen: I can cook the best seafood and poultry gumbo. What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? I LOVE the level of quality, professionalism and creativity poured into these products. Affiliated community events such as the Exceptional Women of Color Conference and the Black Physicians Forum are top–notch, and I look forward to them EVERY YEAR! n

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

MILTON BOWENS

FINE ARTIST - MILTON 510 STUDIOS Milton Bowens is a nationally recognized artist and activist, who has been creating powerful work for the past 20 years. With his unique brand of mixed media paintings, enveloping the viewer as witness, participant and long lost relatives. They become reflections on family, life and culture. Born and raised in Oakland, California, Milton is the fifth boy of ten children. Milton’s artistic promise began at the age of five with nothing more than a few pencils and cut up brown paper bags stapled together and used as sketch paper, thanks to his mother’s ingenuity of making the best of lean times. Milton never lost sight of his humble roots: discreetly placed on many of his collage works is a piece brown paper bag; a subtle reminder it doesn’t take much to spark creativity. His work was recently featured in Transitions Magazine, which is published by Harvard University. Milton 510’s art sparks conversation on art, history and the times in which we live today. In 2010, Former Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson appointed Milton as the Arts and Education Spokesperson for Sacramento’s Any Given Child partnership with the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts Washington D.C. Milton’s relentless quest for knowledge, exploring innovative artistic techniques and a deeper understanding of art, art history and the role it plays in the preservation of culture is never ending. Milton continues to give back to the community, whether he’s providing art workshops to members at the local Boys and Girls Clubs of Sacramento or through his many lectures, workshops through Twin Rivers Unified School District, For Art Sake, Sacramento Unified School District and St. Hope Academy just to name a few of the many K-12 schools where he often teaches through his art. He also continues to educate through art at several colleges and universities, notably Los Rios Community College District and California State University Sacramento. FAVORITES: Restaurant: Southern Cafe Book: The Autobiography of Malcom X Comedian: Can’t decide between Richard Pryor or Paul Mooney

About your mentor: David Bradford, retired professor from Laney College is the reason I’m a Fine Artist today; He change my life with one question “Boy don’t you know Black people paint too?” Priorities: To help bring about change by being honest in my work and maintaining a dignified moral compass and character. Defining fatherhood: Strength, dignity, integrity and consistency. Struggles Black men face in life: Mental health - both Black men and women since the legalization of slavery have been the number one target of oppression on the planet. Is our country ready for a woman as President of the U.S.? Yes, unfortunately I do not believe any of the current women running should be President. The woman I would vote for is not of eligible age yet. What might we be surprised to know about you? I’m a U.S. veteran (Green Beret).

Our Conversation: Church: Bethany Baptist Church - Oakland, CA

Slogan you live by: Practice what you preach.

Best work day strategy: Remain flexible. Greatest achievement: My mother having the opportunity to see my work on display in a California museum. Black women you admire: Tie between Harriet Tubman and Ida B. Wells. They laid the blue print for unapologetic, uncompromising activism. What is sexy about a woman? Everything about a woman is sexy but the most SEXY is her intelligence. In the kitchen: My mom cooked the best fried chicken, when she was alive; my significant other cooks the best sweet potato pie and I can cook the best peach cobbler. | 1 5 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

Early childhood and holding your own: It was tough but there was a tremendous amount of love.

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I am committed to: Black folks because we’re all we got. What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? Both are committed to the Black experience. n

CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

DAMANY M. FISHER, PH.D.

INTERIM DEAN OF RESEARCH AND PLANNING AT SOLANO COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN FAIRFIELD, CALIFORNIA Damany M. Fisher, Ph.D. is a native of Sacramento, California. The son of Dr. James A. Fisher and the late Cheryl Fisher, Damany grew up influenced by his parents’ commitment to Black liberation, their passion for service, and their love of jazz music. He is a graduate of the University of California, Davis with a B.A. degree in History, and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in History from the University of California, Berkeley. A dedicated educator, Damany has built a career working in service of students in secondary and higher education settings. He currently serves as Interim Dean of Research and Planning at Solano Community College in Fairfield, California. In addition to his work in data collection and analysis at the college, Damany has helped lead efforts to provide support for formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students enrolled at Solano, and serves as an Instructor of History inside the California State Prison Solano. Under Damany’s leadership, the college officially opened the SOAR (Students Overcoming Adversity and Recidivism) Center in May 2019 at its Vallejo, CA campus, where he is also serving as its inaugural Director. In his spare time, Damany enjoys playing basketball, biking, and spending time with his family. He has also hosted a radio program—“One Flight Up”— featuring a playlist of straightahead jazz. Damany lives in Sacramento with his wife, Danica, and two children. Our Conversation: Status: Married 9 yrs with 2 children: Asa and Anansa Fisher In Sacramento: Most of my life. I’ve also lived in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Boston, and the Bay Area. Black woman you admire: My wife, Danica. She has extraordinary beauty, intellect, and moral charcter. Best work day strategy: Knowing your “why” and living intentionally every day. What do you like most about Sacramento? The diversity Greatest achievement: My children Early childhood, holding your own, and going after what you want? I’m here because I stood on the shoulders of others. My parents, friends, teachers, folks in the community all played a role in my being where I am today. Defining fatherhood: Showering your children with love and providing them with tools that will allow them to live independently. Struggles you think Black men face in life and why? Lack of resources, support, love, and nurturing!!! I’ve been fortunate to have all of these things so I haven’t had to struggle as much. Is our country ready for woman as President of the U.S.? I’m ready!!!!! I’m sick of men f$$$ing things up! | 1 6 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

I am committed to: My family. Need I say more? What might people be surprised to know about you? I love jazz. Not that smooth sh$$ either. But the real deal Coltrane, Bird, Monk, Diz, Shepp, Ornette, Mingus, Hubbard, etc. Slogan you live by: All gas, no brake! What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com & THE HUB Magazine? It’s Black-owned and independent! n

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

DR. ERIC V. GRAVENBERG DEPUTY CHANCELLOR, (RETIRED) AT PERALTA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Dr. Eric V. Gravenberg is the former Deputy Chancellor and COO for the Peralta Community College District in Oakland, California. In July 2013, he was appointed the President of the College of Alameda. He has had a distinguished 43-year career in education having served in several senior leadership positions at major universities, both public and private. He is currently President and CEO of The HAWK Institute, a leadership development program for African American young men. His illustrious career includes serving as Vice President with Noel Levitz, a premiere higher education consulting company. Additionally he served as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management at Howard University; Director of Admission at the University of California, Riverside; Enrollment Management Consultant for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF); and the Statewide Associate Dean for Student Affirmative Action at the California State University Chancellor’s Office. Through his consulting company, The Gravenberg Group, he has coached and mentored senior executives, managers, supervisors in both public, private, profit and non-profit organizations. Illustrative of his leadership acumen, he is a former faculty member at the Executive Leadership Management Institute at Stanford University. The Institute is the premier executive leadership training program for college and university business officers. Dr. Gravenberg is an active member in his community. He has participated in various business and industry advisory councils and local foundations. Dr. Gravenberg is a nationally recognized speaker, consultant and educational leader. He has authored numerous publications and received countless awards recognizing his accomplishments as an innovative, passionate and committed leader for educational equity.

What do you like most about Sacramento? The location, diversity and the opportunity to share my talents. Early childhood, hold your owning and going after what you want? My parents instilled in me the importance of education and to always believe in myself. This was my armor and my mantra when faced with the cruel realities of the world that devalues black people and strives to keep them ignorant. My mother’s gift to me was the ability to discern character in others and compassion. My father’s gift was a pride in my culture and heritage, and the courage to withstand all the tribulations I would encounter especially as a black man in America. About your mentors: My grandfather had a great influence in shaping my view of the world and imparting his wisdom. My college advisor and mentor gave me the confidence to excel and to succeed as a leader. Defining fatherhood: Taking the time to be there, consistently and honestly for my sons and daughter. Leading by example, providing discipline to shape their character and loving them unconditionally. Slogan you live by: Courageous leadership is about truth and social justice. We must not hide in the shadows of fear nor the corridors of passivity. Now is the time to display courageous leadership! n

FAVORITES: Book: Black Reconstruction in America 1860-1880, W.E.B Dubois, and Destruction of the Black Civilization, Chancellor Williams Comedian: Richard Pryor Black woman you admire: Harriet Tubman Our Conversation: Status: Married thirteen and half years with two sons and one daughter; five grandsons and two granddaughters Pros of what you do? Helping young African American youth, especially young men, succeed personally, academically and economically. Greatest achievement? Raising two successful sons and a daughter. | 1 7 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

JAY KING

MUSIC ARTIST & MANAGER, COMMUNITY ACTIVIST & RADIO HOST With three decades of continuous achievements in music, management, film/TV/radio, consulting and publishing, Jay King has made an indelible impression. Joining the Air Force at age 18 landed him in Anchorage, Alaska, and despite getting kicked out a year later he remained there and called it home. Not wanting to return home a failure at 19, King stayed and started a dance group that became successful around the city, opening for every act that came through Anchorage at the time. Having made a name for himself, he returned to Northern California to try his hand as a rapper. Borrowing a reference to the Alaskan ice, he named a group Frost and put out a record entitled ‘The Battle Beat’. Although unsuccessful, it did lead him deeper into music, eventually meeting the members of Timex Social Club.

In 1986, King starting the independent record label JAY Records to release the Timex Social Club hit ‘Rumors’ and ushered in the biggest selling single of 1986 and becoming the #1 RandB single on the Billboard Charts. Bypassing traditional methods, King utilized Macola Records because of its position as an Indie manufacturer with no association to a major label. He quickly followed up with a label/production deal with Warner Brother Records and his King Jay Records label, subsequently releasing the first Club Nouveau single ‘Jealousy’ and the album, ‘Life, Love and Pain’. After ‘Jealousy’ went to #8 on the Billboard RandB charts in September of 1986, followed by ‘Situation #9’ (#4 Billboard RandB charts), 1987 came in with an even bigger bang when ‘Lean On Me’ was released in February and became #1 Billboard Pop/#2 Billboard RandB platinum single, winning a Grammy for RandB Song of The Year. He then signed Michael Cooper, New Choice and Cachet Du Vios to his WB/King Jay joint venture. After writing Cooper’s debut album, ‘Love Is Such a Funny Game’, he delivered another hit at #2 on the Billboard RandB charts. In 1987, he produced Club Nouveau’s single ‘Step By Step’ on Madonna’s ‘Who’s That Girl’ multi-platinum soundtrack, while he negotiated a second label/production deal with BMG records, signing three acts. By 2005, King broadened his scope when he created and directed the Professional Domino Association, which paid the biggest cash prizes in the history of the game. This led to a deal with ESPN to televise domino tournaments, adding Domino’s. The Jay King Network (JKN) an online radio platform was launched in 2009. The network has grown to 9 hours a day live radio – 7 days a week - and is presented by more than 20 different show hosts. In addition to running a network and label, King is currently managing such notable talent as Cameo (Word Up, Candy, Shake Your Pants), Larry Dunn (Earth Wind and Fire), Kathy Sledge (Lead vocalist Sister Sledge) and Karyn White (Super Woman, The Way You Love Me). King has written a book series entitled ‘Passport to the Music Business’— publications that simplify the music business for laymen. Broken into categories, each book is specific to a subject such as: ‘Everything Distribution’, ‘Everything Publishing’ and soon to be released – ‘Everything Royalties’. Jay King continues to do his morning radio talk show “kings in the morning” (4 years running) Monday thru Friday from 8 to 10am PST at www.thejaykingnetwork.com. He’s also an on-air radio personality doing a drive time radio show playing classic RandB music at 97.5 FM, a terrestrial radio station in Sacramento Tuesday thru Thursday 3-7pm PST and at www.kdeefm.org . Jay King is completing his second solo CD Helens Son to be released in the spring of 2016. Jay King acts as Manager/Booking Agent for Cameo, Club Nouveau and Larry Dunn. For more information contact: 818-518-8062

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themselves accountable to self. And tell them that they have lived a privileged life and to enjoy the life ride that’s in front of them. So I guess fatherhood is to speak honesty and truth to my children without provocation. Struggles you think Black men face in life? There are lots of misnomers, stereotypes and outright lies told about, on and in the name of the black man and it has gone on since America has been. The struggle happens every time a black man steps outside because he doesn’t know what fallacy is facing him next, but let’s face it this has been a way of life for us black men. We are a threat because we won’t break, we won’t quit and we will rise.

FAVORITES: Restaurant: Restaurant: Kirala (sushi) in Berkeley Cologne: Jean Paul Guiltier Black woman you admire: My Mother Helen Bridges because she was brilliant, classy, regal, sophisticated and down to earth, straightforward and kind. A giver in every sense of the word. Comedian: Dave Chappelle Our Conversation: Status: Single; 3 children 16, 34, 35 Trademark: I think being on the radio speaking my mind and creating the group Club Nouveau. What is sexy about a woman and what is not: The way she carries herself is sexy! Not sexy is when she’s loud, aggressive and talks too much.

What might we be surprised to know about you? I’m a geek who loves to read, listen to bossa nova music and I enjoy being alone in quiet. Slogan you live by: I’m gonna give life all I’ve got till I’ve got nothing left to give. I am committed to: Paying the debt I owe my community for the support, love and belief it has given to me. I have made it a mission to represent the love, appreciation of life and thankful nature my mother (Helen) has always had on display for me, my family and community to witness. I will walk in the vibration of my mother till the day I die - that is my commitment. What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? I love Pleshette’s dedication, consistency and love for the greater Sacramento community. It’s a great place to find out the happenings around the greater Sacramento area. n

Best work day strategy: Just get the work done. In the kitchen: My mom cooks the best chili beans in the world! I cook the best salmon and my son cooks the best burgers. Greatest achievement: Dreaming and believing in my dreams enough to make each of them real. Priorities: To live and love my life, to give what I can and to build, grow, develop and never stop learning how to make my life and the people I interact with better today than we were yesterday. Early childhood, holding your own, and going after what you want: Growing up in the (Del Paso) Heights most of us got along like family. It was competitive but still with support if you were a standout or people could recognize your talents there was lots of encouragement. Even as I started to make music and build a name, the love I received from my community always encouraged, supported and acknowledged me. So it was easy to be a go getter and someone who could get the job done because it would make my community proud. About your mentor: My mother was the greatest, mentor, teacher and advocate for me and my talent. But she also made it clear to me that no amount of talent, no amount of money or no amount of accolades received should be a barometer of who you are. She said that should be done by how you carry yourself, treat people and give of yourself to the community around you. Defining fatherhood: I will tell you that I love my children. I’ve taught them to be tough, to believe in themselves, to hold | 1 9 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

KEILAND MAURICE HENDERSON COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR WITH CITY OF STOCKTON’S OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION Keiland Henderson currently works as the Community Engagement Coordinator for the City of Stockton’s Office of Violence Prevention (OVP). There, he plays a crucial role in implementing a citywide violence reduction strategy by engaging stakeholders, service providers and various community groups. Prior to OVP, he worked as the Executive Director for the Young Professional’s Network and has more than ten years of experience in nonprofit management, business development and community outreach. He currently serves on San Joaquin County’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission and is a fellow with the National Institute of Criminal Justice Reform. FAVORITES: Restaurant: I love going to Mezzo, a small Italian restaurant in North Stockton. But I’m always game for wing night. Book: That’s a hard one. But right now, I would say all books by James Baldwin especially; ‘Fire Next Time’. Cologne: Sauvage by Dior. It’s clean, light; yet serious. Black woman you admire: My mother. She’s a living example of what victory truly looks like. Comedian: Paul Mooney by far. Though he’s a legend, he remains current and relevant.

Priorities: My relationship with God, my wife, and family. In that order. Early childhood, holding your own, and going after what you want? My childhood was pretty rough and very limited. Being the oldest of 7 siblings forced me to grow up quickly. But it also gave me the drive and work ethic one needs to be successful. And though my life is different today, I still go after dreams I had as a child; while making and achieving new ones along the way. About your mentor: Donna Lee Andrews, founder and former CEO of the Lee Andrews Group, was the best mentor anyone could have. She showed me that opportunities were limitless with education and determination. She also taught me the importance of sacrifice and strategic selfishness in order to achieve success. Struggles Black men face in life? Unfortunately, we struggle with some of the same things we’ve struggled with in times past. Many of us continue to deal with inequities constructed in the various systems of our society. Our criminal justice system continues to have a strong disregard for our life and freedom. The work continues.

Best work day strategy: Starting the day off with prayer sets the tone for the rest of the day. It’s the best strategy a man can have.

Our Conversation: Status: My wife and I recently celebrated our 1-year anniversary on March 10th, 2019. We have no children…yet.

Is our country ready for a woman as President of the U.S.? Our country is absolutely ready for a woman as President. So long as she’s the best candidate.

Trademark: Known for being very outspoken and candid.

I am committed to: Continuously working on being the best friend, husband, and child of God that He has called me to be.

Church: Progressive Community Church in Stockton, CA What is sexy about a woman and what is not? The sexiest thing about my wife is her eyes. But the biggest turn-off or nonsexy trait a woman can have is an unattractive heart.

What might we be surprised to know about you? That I dream of living on a farm with chickens. It is and has always been a dream of mind.

In the kitchen: My mom cooks the best macaroni and cheese and my wife cooks the best pot roast.

Slogan you live by: If you not only stand in your passion, but walk on purpose, you will run into destiny. I try to always make sure my efforts are aligned with my true purpose and calling.

What do you like most about Sacramento? Its juxtaposition to the bay area and ski resorts is amazing. It also has a nice mix of culture, beautiful landscape, politics and great food.

What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? I appreciate the positive and communityfocused information it continuously provides. n

Greatest achievement: Purchasing my first home.

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JULIUS McINTYRE

POLICY CONSULTANT FOR THE SPEAKER OF THE CALIFORNIA, ASSEMBLY.OFFICE OF ASSEMBLY SPEAKER ANTHONY RENDON Julius McIntyre is a Policy Consultant for the Speaker of the California Assembly. His focus is on transportation policy, where he has had the opportunity to be involved in the development of some of the most significant transportation policy in recent California history, including the approval of Senate Bill 1 The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, which made significant funding available to repair, replace and expand our states transportation infrastructure. Julius also serves as the Speaker’s policy liaison with the numerous caucuses of the legislature and works with them to support their priority policy objectives. Prior to joining the Speakers staff, Julius served as a consultant to the California Legislative Black Caucus, and supported the Caucus’ effort to advance policies that were focused on improving the lives of African Americans. Julius also worked as a Project Manager for the State School Allocation Board’s Office of Public School Construction overseeing funding for the construction and modernization our state’s school facilities. Julius is passionate about mentorship and volunteers with several organizations that are focused on helping young men and women of color achieve their full potential. He is also personally focused on social justice and criminal justice reform | 2 1 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

and sees the lack of reform as a form of oppression to our future generation of young people, especially those of color. Born and raised in Sacramento, Julius is a graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge Louisiana, where he earned a degree in Mass Communications. FAVORITES: Book: The Black Panther Party and the autobiography of Malcolm X Black woman you admire: My mother, because she is my role model and the leader of our family; she is also one of the first African American women lobbyists in California. She is currently the President of the California Cable and Telecommunications Association. Comedian: Bernie Mac and Robin Harris Our Conversation: Church: Mt. Morriah Baptist Church in Oak Park – Sacramento. Priorities: Put God first and everything else will fall in line. Worst reality show: Basketball Wives Greatest achievement: My 5 year old protégé Jayson n

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

RYAN C. McCLINTON

COMMUNITY ORGANIZER WITH SACRAMENTO AREA CONGREGATIONS TOGETHER Seeing his community in need, “cuts you deep but also fuels the fire to respond to the call for change and bring as many others along in the fight as possible. The joy in seeing our people take agency of themselves, their community, and their power to inject change is a high among highs that heals so much of the damage taken on through the battles. God’s divine design always provides a deeper gift through EVERY scenario that can feed you for a lifetime and that gift I will always be thankful for.” FAVORITES: Restaurant: Hard one to pick but Crushed in San Diego is one of my favorites. Book: The Giver Cologne: Jean Paul Gaultier Comedian: Dave Chappelle and Jamie Foxx. Our Conversation: Status: Single with no children. Trademark: The beard with the salt streak first and foremost but I hope I’m received with the light God pours in and I work to pour out into our people everywhere. Church: Center of Praise, Sacramento, CA What is sexy about a woman? The entirety of the uniqueness that is the Black woman. So intrinsically talented, skillful, loving, intelligent, graceful, powerful, decadent, thoughtful and most of all when the humility meets her confidence....My GAWD! I’ll put it like this, a Black queen who KNOWS how to walk in her heels....I might fall out. A lifelong Sacramento resident, Ryan McClinton spends his time serving the community that raised him. Ryan is a Community Organizer with Sacramento Area Congregations Together, as well as the founder of Clayborn Inc. He creates deep roots across Sacramento as he tackles the challenges of secondhand trauma, systemic oppression, and marginalized people. Ryan proudly grew up in Valley Hi. His childhood was one full of family, and while he knew he was from the ‘hood, he never felt truly poor. His parents worked tirelessly to meet the family’s needs. The ‘hood helped raise him and built upon the set of principles and guidelines his family established as the base. Ryan shares his history because he doesn’t want the norm to be that those deeply talented, special, and unique individual stories are tainted because of the environment they came up in. More importantly, however, is being careful not to normalize stories of triumph out of tragedy to the point that we lose the urgency to have the best possible environmental change that is so desperately needed for those communities most challenged in quality of life metrics and reality.

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Best work day strategy: Make your checklist, meet every task full present. And, with the most intention, complete them and review at the end of the day to see where there are opportunities that you can carry into the next day. In the kitchen: My mom cooks the best cinnamon blueberry pancakes ever and I can cook the best ...ShMACin’ cheese hands down. All challengers accepted.

Struggles Black men face in life? Unrelenting societal pressures that even spill into our personal and home life. It’s hard to articulate but in short the fear that you may never be truly safe to take your armor off and just be. Being my full self is discouraged from almost every facet of life because of a presumed threat and this even comes in our homes at times.

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP Black women you admire: My mother Rosemary Bledsoe and grandmother Nadean Brown. Moms is the epitome of empathy and standing in honesty. She has a heart to serve others and also tell you the truth cut and dry. My grandma taught me why community is really family from day one. I have a city full of cousins because everyone took my granny in as theirs and she took them in as hers. What do you like most about Sacramento? The creativity and talent that’s often missed by many but blows folks mind when they take the time to see it in the people here. Greatest achievement? Inspiring another to see and own their unique power while seeking to do the same for the next person. Worst reality show: Every dating show post Love Connection (old ones were just funny) Defining fatherhood: Raising your child in every single phase of life, instilling in them the lessons you’ve learned while guiding them to a set of principles they can hold onto in every challenging situation in life be it with someone or all by yourself. Cultivating what is unique and talented about them pouring in love, wisdom, patience, grace but also providing, protecting, producing and preparing. Is our country ready for a woman as President of the U.S.? Ready and the need can be two different things. I think the need has been there and ready should be there. I can’t say I have a favorite right now but wouldn’t mind seeing Stacey Abrams run or a local champ Dr. Flojaune Cofer. What might people be surprised to know about you? Hmmmmm that I have an extremely dark humor to balance out my kind, loving, and chill disposition. Slogan you live by: Straight up, no chaser. Give me the truth as it is and don’t sugar coat it. Let me determine how much I can handle or not. I am committed to: Serving God’s vision for my life in love to the fullest capacity I am instructed, guided, prepped to give. For God’s vision has consistently trumped my own and has developed me beyond what I ever saw for myself. With God everything else is provided for as it needs to be and beyond from what my life has shown me. What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? The commitment to give a lens on Sacramento and Black Sacramento specifically that has for far too long been left out of the conversation. n

STAY CONNECTED TO BLACK ASSOCIATIONS GROUPS in the Capitol City & Beyond Elk Grove Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. dstegac.org

African-Americans for Balanced Health aabh.net

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Sacramento Alumnae Chapter sacramentoalumnaedst.org

Sacramento Realtist Association sacramentorealtist.com

Eta Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in Sacramento etagammaomega.org

Sacramento Area Black Golf Club sabgc.org

Sacramento Chapter, NAACP facebook.com/SacNAACP

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. alpha-zbl.org

Sacramento Kappa Psi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta www.sacramentozetas.org

National Coalition of 100Black Women, Inc., Sacramento Chapter sacramentoncbw.org

Sacramento Chapter of The Links sacramentolinksinc.org

California Black Chamber of Commerce calbcc.org

Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce sacblackchamber.org

National Council of Negro Women, Inc. svsncnw.org 100 Black Men of Sacramento 100bmsac.org

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Sacramento Area Black Caucus facebook.com/sacramentoarea. blackcaucus Black Women Organized For Political Action bwopatileleads.org

CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

RASHID SIDQE

CO-FOUNDER OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCOUNTABILITY DIRECTIVE (LEAD)/COMMUNITY ACTIVIST – SACRAMENTO Rashid F. Sidqe, community leader and advocate, has worked to improve the social and economic conditions of the hard-to-serve population in the Greater Sacramento region for much of his adult life. To strengthen his efforts, Rashid Sidqe founded Lift Up Love Always (L.U.L.A), a non-profit organization with an ambitious vision and mission to focus on restorative justice, police reform, and reducing recidivism in underserved communities by increasing employment and training opportunities with researched driven data. Under the L.U.L.A. umbrella, he brought in the Law Enforcement Accountability Directive (L.E.A.D), an advocacy program which has been instrumental in leading the fight for police reform in the City of Sacramento. Sidqe grew up in Sacramento by way of Houston Texas, graduating from Grant High School in 1988. He went on to attend Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia. After college, Sidqe returned to Sacramento, where he started his family and raised three beautiful daughters. Sidqe began work for the Greater Sacramento Urban League in 1995, as the Case Manager of the General Education Diploma (GED) Program, where he played a large role in graduating over 400 students. He soon was promoted to the position of Supervisor and then Director of Youth and Adult Services and eventually became the Vice President for the Greater Sacramento Urban League. In 2002, Sidqe transferred to a smaller agency, the Center for Fathers and Families. This agency had a heavy youth focus, which was the core reason why Sidqe decided to work in social services. This agency’s focus was on underserved youth in Sacramento and provided quality after school services. Sidqe returned to the Greater Sacramento Urban League in 2014 following the creation of more than 20 sites in underserved schools throughout the Sacramento Area. More than two decades later, Sidqe remains involved in his community with expertise and a deep passion for improving health disparities, reducing high drop-out rates, and eliminating the high unemployment rate. His contributions have led to innovative solutions and transformative public awareness. Sidqe is a dynamic leader, public speaker, skilled organizer and tough negotiator when it comes to the betterment of his community. Sidqe has been instrumental in bringing about positive change in the greater Sacramento area, while tirelessly aiding his community and helping the underserved gain access to much needed resources. Sidqe’s drive continues to be fueled by the mission of equality for all, the spirit of Sacramento, and commitment to his community to bring fairness and justice for all.

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FAVORITES: Restaurant: Queen Sheba Book: The Holy Quran and the Art of War Cologne: Oils that smell good on me! Comedian: Dave Chapelle Our Conversation: Status: Divorced and I have 3 children: Julienne (25 yrs), Hajjah (25 yrs), Aliyah (22yrs). Trademark: Community activist for police reform. Church: Masjid Ibrahim Islamic Center in Sacramento. What is sexy about a woman? Confidence Best workday strategy: Prioritize your day. In the kitchen: My mom cooks the best gumbo. I cook the best spaghetti, and my daughter cooks the best vegan meals and sandwiches. Black woman you admire: My daughters because they show me the truth and what is real. Greatest achievement: My daughters Worst reality show: Flavor of Love

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP About your mentors: Being amongst men, such as my father, grandfather, Dr. Marion Woods, James Shelby and Dr. Khalid Mohammad all contributed to the man I am today. Defining fatherhood: Unconditional love, being present, giving of yourself, being selfless, loving someone more then life itself. Struggles you think Black men face in life: Focusing on money more than education and family. Is our country ready for a woman as President of the U.S.? I don’t know if the country is ready but I am! I would like to see Michelle Obama but she is not a candidate so I would have to go with Kamala Harris. What might we be surprised to know about you? That I love washing clothes and cleaning. It reminds me of my mother, and it brings a calm to me when I need to think. Slogan you live by: “I’d rather live on my feet than die on my knees.” Malcom X I am committed to: Making positive changes in my community which results in healthy families and positive futures for the community as a whole. Priorities: God, family and work. Early childhood, holding your own and going after what you want: Growing up in Houston’s south west side public housing projects and seeing how the rest of the community viewed and judged families living there, with the love of my mother, father and grandparents I was filled with confidence and ambition. Growing up and overcoming racism, poverty, lack of education, and divorce allowed me to build strength in myself because I was able to see it in my parents, family and strong leaders in my community instilled in me a no-quit attitude in myself.

TRANSITIONAL

What do you like most about Sacramento? The Sacramento black communities’ consciousness regarding police reform and the local and state political climate and having the State Capitol within the city to personally impact decisions law makers are making on behalf of all Californians and the communities I serve. What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE HUB Magazine? I love the in depth articles and the recognition of Black women. n

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

BRANDON J. SMITH

WORSHIP PASTOR AT THE LIGHT CHRISTIAN CHURCH, CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN AND GOSPEL ARTIST, SONGWRITER, AND MUSICIAN Brandon Smith is a contemporary christian and gospel artist, songwriter, and musician. Having a passion and calling to praise and worship music at a young age, he has spent his life encouraging and uplifting God’s people through song. Brandon known as B.Smith was born in Spokane, Washington, growing up in Rancho Cordova since 3rd grade. In pursuit of his vision, God led Smith to Epic Bible College where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Worship Arts, a program in which he now is an instructor. “To set the atmosphere that is inviting to the presence of God” is his deepest desire. In 2017 B.Smith released his first single “I Can Depend On You”, a song that declares his unwavering trust in the Lord’s promise to never leave or forsake us. Shortly after the release of the single, the Lord moved on B.Smith to form the group “Free Indeed”. Their purpose is to incite a move of God every where they go! FAVORITES: Restaurant: I really love Olive Garden. Book: Besides the Bible… I enjoyed reading “God’s Pursuit of Man” A.W. Tozer, “Worship Matters” Bob Kauflin, “Driven by Eternity” John Brevere. I could not just pick one. Black woman you admire: Candace Owen has earned my respect right now. I don’t always agree with ALL of her positions but I admire her heart for the black community. Comedian: My friend and fellow EPIC alumni… Dennis Gaxiola. Our Conversation: Status: Oh, Yes!!! My wife and I have been married for 11 years now. Time flies, it seems like just yesterday we were both in high school at Hiram Johnson. We have four children: Amari, Symphony, Andrew, and Priya Trademark: My hope is that people will see my love for God and passion for worship through music. What is sexy about a woman and what is not: Hahaha … This may not be the most popular answer but think that a woman that can manage her emotions well is sexy. I love intelligence and compassion. I think the opposite of that is very unattractive. Best work day strategy: I make sure to write out a “To Do list” everyday. You would be surprised how many days, months, years will get away from you if you do not plan your days. In the kitchen: My mom cooks the best spaghetti and my wife cooks the best fried chicken Greatest achievement: My family. I take great pride in how God has blessed me to be a husband to my wife and a father to my children. It’s a blessing! Priorities: I set my priorities by asking myself “What did God tell me to do”, that comes first. Second is my family, I prioritize anything that will further my families vision. We set concrete goal every five years. | 2 6 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

About my mentors: I have been fortunate to have some great men in my life that have shaped the man I am today, and continue to challenge me. I grew up with my mom, my father (a great man) lives in Georgia has always been 3000 miles away so I believe that God sent me great men to help me… Pastor J’on Harris, Pastor Donald Wright, Pastor Phillip Goudeaux, Pastor OJ Swanigan… This list goes on and on. These are not just men that speak to me when they need a musician, they have changed the course of my life on many occasions. Defining fatherhood: Before I was a father, fatherhood in some ways felt like a person miles away who loves me but could not be THERE or had little influence in your life… it was not just my natural father but also my initial view of God as Father. When I had my own children I realize that God’s intentions for fatherhood is present and direct. In other words the presence of a father is LIFE CHANGING in the life of a child. As I grow in my relationship with Christ I realize just how present God is in my life. He’s here now and not figuratively. Struggles you think Black men face: I think many Black men grow up in a world where we are taught not to trust anyone. We do not trust people of other ethnicities and we do not trust each other. We are conditioned to show no weakness, be a provider, and overcome insurmountable odds. I believe that we men have to find a place and group of people with whom it is ok to be “human”. We have to

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have a place where we can admit: that something wounded us; we are discouraged; we do not know how to overcome and be successful. I think that our culture propagates this behavior. The people to whom the black community gives the biggest voices and influence do not always preach messages that promote the black community. Is our country ready for a woman as President of the U.S.? I don’t believe that the country is “ready”. And it is unfortunate. I think politically there is almost as much of a gender divide as there is a racial one. What might we be surprised to know about you? I’m a TREKKIE!!!!! I love Star Trek. I am committed to: Christ, my family, and being content with my life story. Slogan you live by: Always moving forward! n

Governor Gavin Newsom and the State Legislature came together to invest $50 million for a new #CaliforniaForAll Emergency Preparedness Campaign. “Our goal is to boost community resiliency and ready our most diverse and socially vulnerable Californians most at risk for wildfires and other natural disasters,” said Chief Service Officer Karen Baker. “Our people centered approach will usher in a new era of emergency preparedness,” said Gov. Newsom. “We are leveraging the power of volunteerism while ensuring preparedness support and information is not only limited to those who have been privileged enough to access, understand and afford it.” According to a 2018 report in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work, low income people, especially those who are also Black and Latino, are significantly less prepared for disaster. californiavolunteers.ca.gov/californiaforall

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

DWIGHT TAYLOR, SR.

CEO AND FOUNDER OF REALMANHOOD101.ORG AND LEARNING SUPPORT COORDINATOR AT SACRAMENTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (HIRAM JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL) Dwight Taylor Sr. is best known as “The Encouragement Expert” because of his genuine heart to help, serve and encourage others to live their life to the fullest. He is a #1 Amazon Best Selling author, TED-talker and award winning professional communicator who has been seen and heard on SHOWTIME, FOX, CBS, BET, ESPN and JUCEtv. At 37 years young living in Sacramento since 2014, Dwight has significant achievements from the birthplace of Berkeley while claiming Richmond as the city he was born in, he states: “I grew up all over the Bay Area”. Along with being the founder of REALmanhood101.org, the Sacramento Kings named Dwight their Jr. NBA coach of the year. As a student success coach for students throughout the country, he has the amazing opportunity to coach student-leaders each and every day. For his dedication to improving the lives of others and being a force for GOOD, Walmart honored him with their “Community Playmaker” award. This Bishop O’Dowd alum earned his Bachelors of Science Degree from California State University, Fresno. Dwight uses public speaking, conducting workshops, teaching empowerment sessions, coaching, consulting and music to communicate and encourage people to be the best version of themselves…every single day with no moments off. Whether giving motivational presentations in Australia and the Cayman Islands or standing in a DMV line in America, encouraging greatness with empowering statements is what Dwight does on a daily basis. FAVORITES: Restaurant: California Pizza Kitchen Book: My second book that I wrote titled “Domin8 Your Day: 30 Empowering Statements That Encourage Greatness (Student Edition)” Cologne: Issey Miyake L’Eau D’Issey Comedian: Kevin Hart Our Conversation: Status: I’m married. My wife and I were married for 5 years. Got separated and divorced for 2 1/2 years. We’ve now been remarried for 3 dope years. I have 3 children - my two young kings (ages 16 and 17) and my princess (age 8). Trademark: “Domin8 Your Day” and my naturally perfect eyebrows lol! What is sexy about a woman? Sexy: High Self-esteem --- Not Sexy: Low self-esteem Best work day strategy: Define what fulfillment will look/feel like at the end of my day and then reverse engineer my day to make that happen. In the kitchen: My wife cooks the best spaghetti. Black woman you admire: My wife...Kia Taylor. Her transparency is tremendously transformative. I aspire to be as transparent as she is.

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP What do you like most about Sacramento? The amount of opportunities there are to serve people who experienced similar hardships as I did. Greatest achievement: Becoming and being a father. Worst reality show: Journey of the LIFER (on youtube) Priorities: I have many priorities as an entrepreneur/businessman/ coach but my number 1 priority is to make sure that my wife and kids have the right mindset to dominate every moment of their day.

means ALL THE TIME! Presence over presents. Struggles Black men face in life? Our biggest struggle as Black men is our lack of self-worth, which stems from our mindset. When we know our worth and the greatness we possess inside of us, we are more inclined to make healthy decisions based off of that. The why can be summed up in the words of Kendrick Lamar, on Nipsey Hussle’s song Dedication, “For generations we been dealt bad hands with bad plans”. Broken men have been breaking other men. Which leads to the lack of REAL men that are needed to empower young males to become REAL men who empower young males to become REAL men who empower young males....well you get the picture. The old cycle must be broken. The new cycle must be implemented. No longer do we need role models. Our young kings need Black Kings to be R.E.A.L. models who Reject passivity, Expect the greater reward, Accept responsibility and Lead courageously. That’s it. That’s all. Slogan you live by: Be your best. Forget the rest. Give your PERFECT EFFORT and nothing less. I am committed to: Excellence in every area of my life because anything other than that is a disservice to God, my family, myself and those I’ve been placed on this earth to serve.

Early childhood, holding your own and going after what you want? My mother was 17 and my father was 18 when they What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com and THE had me. Drug abuse caused them to fumble me at a very early age. Thankfully my grandparents recovered the fumble and took HUB Magazine? The platform, exposure and information that me in as their own child. For 18 is provided. There are years, my mother and father were in not many quality media and out of my life due to the disease outlets that provide all of drug addiction. This led to many three. And these are three My grandfather, Wendell Taylor, Sr., is a living traumatizing moments for me. If it things that I focus on weren’t for my grandparents and providing to people, so example of what a REAL man is. He Rejects my other family members stepping it’s in alignment with who passivity, Expects the greater reward, Accepts up, I would have been dead a long I am. n time ago. By the grace of God, my responsibility and Leads courageously. parents did a 180 around the time I turned 19 and came back in my life for good. They’ve been rocking with me ever since. They are two of the best grandparents...in the world Craig! Lol! For all of this, I AM GRATEFUL! God and my family are the reasons that I survived. God and my family are the reasons that I now thrive...period! About your mentor: My grandfather, Wendell Taylor, Sr., is a living example of what a REAL man is. He Rejects passivity, Expects the greater reward, Accepts responsibility and Leads courageously. He’s the best father, husband, family man and friend on the planet. He is a man of great faith, purposeful action and few words. He believes that the way you spell LOVE is T-I-M-E. He is a mentor to men and boys of all ages. Everyday I attempt to follow in his footsteps. He constantly encourages me to better my best. Defining fatherhood: Being who/ what your child needs you to be when he/she needs you to be it...which | 2 9 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

DR. ANGELO WILLIAMS

PROFESSOR AT UC DAVIS, CSU SACRAMENTO, SAC CITY COLLEGE, SIERRA COLLEGE Dr. Angelo Williams is Diversity MBA magazine’s 2016 Top 100 under 50 Diverse Executive Leaders awardee and Senior Fellow with the Nehemiah Emerging Leaders Program. Dr. Williams has over 20 years of executive leadership experience having served as a Gubernatorial Appointee (State Chancellor’s Office), K-20 education policy analyst (CA State Senate and Assembly), Director of Legislation and Communications (CA State Assembly), and Education Field Deputy in both Los Angeles and East Los Angeles (CA State Assembly). In addition to his work in government and in communities Dr. Williams served as a program officer for the WK Kellogg Foundation where he helped award $1.5 million in grant funds to community based organizations and institutions nationwide. He also served as Assistant Executive Director for Policy and Programs at the California School Boards Association where he helped write successful grant proposals that netted $1 million ($400k – James Irvine Foundation, $600k – The California Endowment) for the education and training of school board members. Finally, Dr. Williams serves as an adjunct professor of Sociology (Los Rios Community College District), Educational Leadership and Administration (CSUS, Drexel University) and serves as principal consultant for HCDC (Human Capital Development Consultants) an organization focused on Non-Profit Organization Governance Training, the Sociology of Social Change and Board Governance. Dr. Williams currently serves as the Deputy Director of California Black Health Network.

Best work day strategy: Coffee is for closers. What do you like most about Sacramento? Trees. Greenery. Serenity. Greatest achievement: Being an uncle. Worst reality show: The Bachelorette n

FAVORITES: Restaurant: Tower Cafe Book: Ralph Ellison, Invisible Man Comedian: Richard Pryor Our Conversation: Status: Married 2 years Trademark: I’m a teacher. Both my parents are teachers. My grandparents were teachers. It’s in the blood. In Sacramento: 25 years; born in Los Angeles; growing up in Los Angeles, Sacramento and Louisiana. Church: Sacramento Public Library, Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses and Praise Fellowship Bible Church in Oakland CA (Pastor William Coleman) Black woman you admire: Harriet Tubman. Her actions were part of the destruction of the system of slavery. She’s an example for today’s activists and scholars. We have to put our bodies into the movement. | 3 0 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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Y-EWOC

YOUNG EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN OF COLOR

SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION Submit an Essay and/or YouTube Video Clip entitled:

Submissions must be submitted via email to contact@sacculturalhub.com by 12 midnight on Friday, September 13, 2019.

Several $500 scholarships will be awarded

at the 2019 Exceptional Women of Color (EWOC) Expo & Awards Program on Saturday, October 19th at the Mondavi Center at UC Davis presented by the Sac Cultural Hub Media Foundation.

EXCEPTIONAL To receive the link for the scholarship application, e-mail us at: contact@sacculturalhub.com. | 3 1 | T HE â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; H U B M A G A Z I N E

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

WHAT ARE YOU DOING to begin and/or continue your routine exercise program? by Pleshette Robertson I am a BIG advocate for developing a routine exercise program and eating responsibly (getting the proper intake of fruits and vegetables and lots of water). However, I highly encourage individuals to consult with their doctor or family physician when it comes to their personal health issues as it relates to specific exercises one can do due to their limitations. I felt compelled to pose the following question to our Black Men in Leadership to hear what they are doing when it comes to exercise and nutrition: In terms of health, as Black men tend to suffer from hypertension, stroke, heart attack, diabetes, and prostate cancer: 1. Do you see the doctor for annual exams? 2. Do you see the need for exercise at least 3 days week and if so what does your exercise program include? 3. Do you see the need to change your diet plan and if so share with how this has helped you with maintaining and/or improving your overall health?

MILTON BOWENS

YES, I see the doctor for annual exams. YES, I do see the need for exercise at least 3 days a week, however I don’t keep a traditional exercise program. I just live an active life style and I’m constantly on the go with young people. YES, I work hard at changing my diet plan because I’ve never seen a dessert I didn’t like. DR. ERIC V. GRAVENBERG

YES, I see the doctor for annual exams. YES, I do see the need for at least 3 days a week as my program includes: daily | 3 2 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

pushups, walking four times per week, and going to the gym once per week. Change your diet plan with less sugar, more water, and no salt. JAY KING

No I don’t see the doctor for annual exams but I haven’t been to a doctor in 34 years. I’ve never taken medication of any sort, nor have I had any illnesses. Maybe it’s time for a check up. YES, I do see the need for exercise at least 3 days a week as I walk 2.5 miles 3 days a week and do sit ups, push ups, squats, curls and other exercises each week. As far as my diet plan, I’m not eating as much bread, red meat and sweets. KEILAND MAURICE HENDERSON

Yes, I see the doctor for annual exams. [On exercising at least 3 days a week ] – With my work schedule, having a regular exercise routine is difficult. However, whether I go to the gym or take a walk, I try to remain active as much as possible. Exercise not only helps physically but mentally, emotionally and spiritually. [When you speak of diet program] growing up, we always finished dinner with something sweet. As an adult, I now know the importance in passing on dessert as much as possible. Eliminating excessive sugars has prevented me from developing diabetes even though both parents have been diagnosed. RYAN C. MCCLINTON

Yes, I see the doctor for annual exams. YES, I do see the need for at least 3 days a week and I haven’t been the best at it but as of now to rebuild it I am spending 30 minutes to an hour doing a true physical activity be it a gym workout, bike ride, or good paced walk. [When it comes to changing your diet plan] what you put in the body is what you will get out of it. Many foods we’ve enjoyed for years are quite

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CENTERSTAGE | BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP harmful to our body especially if not consumed in moderation. As such I am putting more natural items in my body and starting to slow down on the bad for you but great tasting stuff like bacon. RASHID SIDQE

Yes, I see the doctor for annual exams. [On exercising at least 3 days a week] I try to get my 10K steps in daily, but I could do more. [When it comes to changing your diet plan] I would like to move to a more Alkaline base diet. BRANDON J. SMITH

I see my doctor regularly for sure! [On exercising at least 3 days a week] Absolutely, we have to take care of ourselves… watch the food that we eat... exercise regularly.

the expert, I’m just trying to be the exercise leader in my family and my network to help folks start stretching, get they hearts pumping, blood circulating, and breaking a sweat. Some suggestions for exercise: cardio (30 min to 1 hour) at least 3 days a week with running and/ or walking in your neighborhood, treadmill or elliptical at the gym, swimming, cycling, Zumba classes, Kickboxing, etc. And my personal recommendation is for those that can afford a personal fitness trainer, contact Coach Carl Fears of Got Muscle Health Club in Sacramento (www. got-muscle.com; 916-381-1221). Coach Fears is serious about health and fitness and offers an excellent gym program along with an effective diet program.

DWIGHT TAYLOR, SR.

I just started seeing my doctor for annual exams around 3 years ago. My wife made me go and I’m grateful she did. [On exercising at least 3 days week] I definitely see the need although I have fell off recently. This question will be the catalyst for me to get back on my exercise grind. My exercise program varies depending on what type of results I’m desiring. But if nothing else, I’m always doing push-ups, sit-ups, squats and some type of cardio...treadmill or jump rope. I do see the need to change my diet plan, I just haven’t yet. But I plan on it.

It’s imperative for us to save ourselves and to encourage those in our family and our personal network by being a living example of what we do when it comes to exercising. I encourage you to be committed to taking care of yourself with developing an exercise program that best fits your schedule as well as your limitations. I’ve been committed to keeping people motivated about exercising by doing 100 squats in the early mornings at least 3 days week on Facebook Live as it has helped me significantly to know that others are looking forward to or depending on the encouragement to do routine exercise. WHY BE CONCERNED WITH EXERCISING? It will undoubtedly help you physically, mentally, and spiritually while also helping you to either maintain weight or reduce weight depending on your diet program. Please note I am not | 3 3 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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s c i m o C p U Stand P U T I G N I LIV t s a o C t s e W e h on t

Contributing Writer Lesley Leatherwood’s conversation with some of Norcal’s finest and funniest comedians.

DANIEL DUGAR Daniel Catrell Dugar was born in New Orleans, raised in Oakland and Richmond, California. Daniel is one of the funniest comedians in the country with his stylist brand of wit and observational comedy. Daniel has appeared on several TV comedy shows on HBO, Showtime At The Apollo, BET, and NBC. Daniel has opened for many musical acts from Luther Vandross, Patti LaBelle, and Earth Wind and Fire. Daniel has opened for the Kings of Comedy tour at the Oracle Arena. Daniel is a sure bet when it comes to delivering smart and honest humor across the country and on the international stage. For the past 13 years, Daniel has been producing the International Comedy Tour with shows in Canada, Japan, Seoul Korea, Singapore, UK, Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt, Australia, Alaska, the Middle East and Guam. Daniel’s episode on Kevin Hart’s, “Laugh Out Loud”, airs in September 2019. When you hear Daniel Dugar is performing in your city, make sure you go see him. THE HUB: When watching you perform or reading your posts and comments on Social Media, you are always so smooth and calm. There are a lot of controversial topics and issues going on now in which you voice your opinion. You seem to be the mediator, the level headed guy, stepping away from the comedy for a brief minute and putting things in prospective when folks are, “Wild N Out”. It doesn’t matter who it is, while occasionally sliding back in that smooth wit, you are highly respected. What’s your philosophy and what would be a message you would want to put out into the universe for folks to grasp? DUGAR: Simply, “Just Doing Me, while trying to be amazing at it”! n facebook.com/daniel.c.dugar Instagram @ dugar007 Twitter @dugar007

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CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

REGINA GIVENS

THE HUB: Changes are being made every day, in a male dominated field, what is the most uphill battle for a woman comedian? What other changes would you like to see? GIVENS: I’d like to have more conversations about sexual misconduct and see more diversity on shows. THE HUB: What qualities do other comedians have that you admire?

Regina Givens is a comedian who loves what she does. “I knew I loved to make people laugh, I never knew I would take it to another level”! Regina has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. A single mom of 2. She owns a beauty salon and is a foster care mom. As a foster mom, she instilled values into the young women in her care. Telling them every day that she loves them, to love themselves, and follow their dreams. As a salon owner sharing her life experiences with her friends and clients, they told Regina her stories were so funny, she should do comedy. Realizing she was teaching her kids to chase their dreams, she decided to chase her own dreams.

GIVENS: I admire professionalism, “on and off” the stage. THE HUB: What do you feel are your strengths or weaknesses in your field? GIVENS: My strength is being fearless when it comes to speaking to huge audience. My weakness would be, being focused. I am easily distracted and lose my thoughts on stage. Thank goodness, I can adlib (aka) freestyle. THE HUB: What is the strangest thing a fan has ever done for you?

In 2007 Regina entered her 1st open mic. She knew immediately standup comedy was her calling. Since then, she has performed throughout the U.S. and won numerous competitions. She has host the Open Mic comedy room at the Touch of Class in Sacramento for the past 7 years. Her proudest moment was when her oldest daughter Marlesha graduated from Alabama A and M University with her Bachelor of Science degree in 2018.

GIVENS: A fan once gave me $100! THE HUB: Which female comedian inspires you? Which male comedian inspires you? GIVENS: For the female comedian it would be, “Sommore”! And for the male comedian it would be, “Katt Williams”! THE HUB: How would your patrons describe your act?

Regina says, “This has been an incredible journey of hard work, sweat and long nights, all in pursuit of my passion which is to bring joy to the world”!

GIVENS: They would say I’m, “animated, raw and uncut”.

THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage?

GIVENS: It’s a long journey you’ll get a lot of no’s! Be humble, you must take constructive criticism, practice, your appearance matters, substance abuse is a no-no! if you want to last, don’t lose your identity. n

GIVENS: I’d have to say receiving a standing ovation at a Kim Whitley show in L.A.

THE HUB: What advice would you offer up and coming comedians?

THE HUB: Have you been heckled on stage? How did you handle it? GIVENS: Yes, it was mostly good vibe hackles. I usually keep rolling or hit back with a quick response and continue the show. | 3 5 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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Rgnagivens38@instagram Rgnagivens9@gmail.com reginagivens@facebook regina_givens@twitters

CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

Stand Up Comics LIVING IT UP

MIKE E WINFIELD

on the West Coast

Mike E Winfield’s comedy is refreshing and relatable in a way that makes him a comedic genius. Hailing from Baltimore, MD, Mike E. moved to California to pursue comedy and to escape the rough streets of Baltimore. The comedy scene felt natural to him and he embraced it raking up credits with The Late Show with David Letterman, a reoccurring role on NBC’s The Office, Brad Paisley’s Comedy Rodeo on Netflix, an Emmy Nomination, multiple movies in post production, one with rapper DMX called, “PIMP”. While rising to the top, he had to grow up quick; he fell in love and married an older woman with a child. That was actually the problem; he wasn’t ready to be a husband, so he made many mistakes, which he adamantly denies. He has since learned and developed a bond with his stepson, whom he jokingly refers to as

“StepMAN” because they’re close in age. He takes his ups and downs in his life and marriage and turns them into jewels he releases on stage. He often jokes about the age difference and his wife treating him like a kid, for instance in the grocery store she yells in front of everyone, “You better not throw anything extra in the shopping cart.” His response, “Well that’s hard for me to do while I’m sitting in it!!” THE HUB: Did you start out doing open mic shows? How long was it before you got your big break? WINFIELD: Yes, I did. What is this big break you speak of? Yes, comedy is feeding my family and I’m on television and in movies, but every day is a grind. One big break was when I was on Comedy Unleashed with Byron Allen, the richest Black man that no one talks about. THE HUB: Do you feel that comedians are in a constant competition for who is the funniest? WINFIELD: That’s the nature of the business. When comedians are competitive about who’s the funniest, that’s interesting to me. “Comedy” in itself is art and therefore subjective. There is stuff I love and other stuff I love. It’s not better or worse, it’s a preference. I feel the energy when someone is competing with me or trying to be me, I can’t invest my energy. This is a big world we live in, and a blessing we get to have these opportunities. THE HUB: Your comedy routine often revolves around your stepson (StepMan), and sometimes your wife, how do they respond to the jokes, do you have to try them out on them first? WINFIELD: My home is lit! We laugh everyday and roast each other all the time. It’s fun to be the same person inside your home as outside of it. There’s many that have to change for work, one of my joys in life is I am who I am. I’m slightly raunchier off stage, but there is an evolution in place. A very nasty evolution! THE HUB: What do you feel are your strengths and weaknesses in your field? WINFIELD: There is no one like me=Strength! My weakness is my unwillingness to change. I do what I like and I’m happy with that. I know you have to be willing to grow, in order to grow. I fear in doing that, I’ll become continued on page 37 someone I hate.

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CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS continued from page 36

THE HUB: If you weren’t a comedian what other profession would you see yourself doing? WINFIELD: I really couldn’t imagine it any other way, but if you’re forcing me to pick something, I’d be a motivational speaker for children or a coach for youth sports. Coaching youth baseball is still one of my ambitions. I’d love to inspire the youth to strive in life, and if you have ever been to a youth baseball game, the moms are sexy as hell! They would be my motivation too! THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage? WINFIELD: It’s really a cliché. Folks will come up to me after a show or dm me, to let me know they were considering harming themselves. They’d say it was my comedy that saved them. I’m sorry if that’s dark, but the reality is that comedy helps folk’s deal with pain, and it should be addressed. It lets me know that comedy is bigger than me, and I should never approach it from a selfish ambition. Another accomplishment was getting booed off stage in Stockton in 2003. I am only 1 in 4 this has happened to; it might not seem like it’s an accomplishment, but it was. THE HUB: Have you been heckled on stage? How did you handle it? WINFIELD: Yes! Different situations call for different measures. It depends on the level of rudeness. If someone is negative and ruining the show for others, I will make those around him feel like they have paid for a quality show. Audience members don’t realize, loud talking affects and distracts the vibe of the show. If I feel that it’s innocent, I will kindly ask them to shut up, or play along in a way to keep on with the show. Other comedians like when I get heckled, they’ve told me, and they’ve noticed I’m bothered. It brings out another side of me I don’t showcase.

ones that show their vulnerability and work at their craft. It’s easy to focus on the negative, if a comedian shows love and is able to keep up that energy in this Devil ran industry, I admire that. THE HUB: What is the strangest thing a fan has ever done for you? WINFIELD: Some female fans have flirted with my wife, to infiltrate or somehow trying to be inclusive in my relationship. I know I discuss certain topics, that may reap certain repercussions, but it’s still weird when it happens. They haven’t been successful, because I married the strongest woman that exists. THE HUB: From a male perspective, in a male dominated profession what advice would you give female comedians, or promoters, venues who are booking female comedians to help even the playing field? WINFIELD: Who says it’s not even? There are 30 male comedians to 1 female. You have different races, genders. My point is, it’s not “fair” for anyone. My philosophy is, don’t chase it. Get in where you fit in. There are opportunities I used to want, and I realized it’s not for me. It’s bigger than me, and I’m in awe that many want to be around what I work on at a kitchen table every day for the last 17 years. THE HUB: What advice would you offer up and coming comedians? WINFIELD: Stop worrying about what everyone else is doing and just work. Write original content, surround yourself with positive energy, and get on stage. Fear is evil. Doubt is the Devil. Be generous and offer others opportunities when you have them. A lot of my opportunities stem from my willingness to give. I’m not trying to hurt or take from anyone, and people can feel that energy. n

THE HUB: You are known for your large, oval Afro. Do you plan on keeping your infamous style? WINFIELD: Look! I have a funny head shape, and that hairstyle works the best for it. I’m riding this thing until I get the hole in the back like George Jefferson. There are many afros but none like this one. THE HUB: What qualities do other comedians have that you admire? WINFIELD: I admire comedians in general. Many are just taking up space. I’m not speaking about them. It’s the ones with the gift, who are doing what no one else is. The | 3 7 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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www.MikeWinfield.com https://www.facebook.com/DesirableMike/ https://www.instagram.com/mikeeewinfield/ https://twitter.com/MikeEWinfield https://www.youtube.com/user/MikeEWinfield

CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

MARIO HODGE

on the West Coast

HODGE: I see myself doing all three in the future. I’m actually writing a movie right now, and I plan to put out music too.

Mario Hodge was born and raised in Oakland, CA. He is the youngest of 4 siblings he was inspired to be a comedian as a child by watching sitcoms like Sanford and Son, The Richard Pryor show, The Carol Burnett Show, and the Three Stooges. After watching, “In Living Color” he knew he wanted to be on TV and perform on stage in front of live audiences to make people laugh. He stepped on stage in 2012 and has never looked back. He rose fast in the comedy industry due to his creative writing and very animated style of comedy.

THE HUB: You get heavily getting involved with serious issues in the community. You often use your comedy to have fundraisers. What recent situation was the hardest for you on an emotional level? HODGE: The Nia Wilson benefit was the emotional one for me. Being that I have 4 daughters of my own, that could have easily been one of them that got killed. Nia was a princess that never got to become a Queen, because of a lowlife disgusting punk!

In 2016, Mario had the #1 selling 1-hour comedy special in California called “I Can’t With You” which he wrote and coproduced. He is multitalented; his comedic style is compared to the likes of Jamie Foxx, which is his favorite Comedian of all time. However, Mario has his own brand of comedy that makes him a crowd favorite wherever he performs at.

(On July 22, 2018, three African American sisters, Nia, Letifah and Tashiya Wilson, were attacked by a knife-wielding man, after exiting a Bay Area Rapid Transit train at MacArthur station in Oakland, California. 18-year-old Nia Wilson died after her throat was slashed.) Wikipedia

He has worked with the late great Charlie Murphy, Tony Roberts, Mark Curry, Luenell, Sinbad, Mo’nique, Adele Givens, Tommy Davidson, and he tours all over with Faizon Love. He has also become a fan favorite on social media platforms for going viral several times with his character “Fleek’isha” and his hilarious creative parodies of R&B singers. One of his most recent accomplishments he worked hand in hand with Kevin Hart in 2018, being chosen to feature on Kevin Hart’s new show called “Hart of the City” that appears on Comedy Central in 2019. Comedian Mario Hodge is a must see when he visits your city. He will have you crying with laughter and wanting more! THE HUB: You have written and produced your own comedy special, you have many characters in costumes, you sing, as well as your comedy act, where do you see yourself in the future, acting, producing, and directing? | 3 8 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

Stand Up Comics LIVING IT UP

THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage? HODGE: Being able to perform in front of my kids. My kids have seen me go through so much, for them to see me happy and being a role model. Now I can give them a vision of what success is, if you apply ambition to it. THE HUB: Before you became a headliner, when was your ah-ha moment when you knew you were on your way and opened up for a celebrity comedian? HODGE: That moment came when I performed with Tony Roberts, who is by far one of the funniest comedians to walk this earth. I had to go up after him and he killed that crowd. Then I went up and I murdered it. Afterwards I got so much praise from the audience and from Tony, that was continued on page 39 big for me.

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THE HUB: You are a very straightforward, no nonsense guy, hilarious and strong on the, “Clap Back”! One incident made it as far as being on the court T.V show with Judge Mathis. Do you ever have any regrets? HODGE: I don’t regret a damn thing! I love teaching hardheaded people lessons. Mind your own, or your own will remind you! THE HUB: What would be the theme song for your life? HODGE: Sam Cook-“A Change Is Going To Come” because I’ve beaten the odds. I was constantly told I wasn’t going to be anything, by women and people I loved. I’ve proved them all wrong. Those same people that doubted me will now see me on a nationally televised cable network, “Comedy Central”! I’ll be appearing on Kevin Hart’s, “Hart of the City 3” with Kevin Hart on June 14, 2019. THE HUB: What is your biggest fear on stage? HODGE: I have no fears, and that’s why I’ve been so successful at my craft. Fear stops you from knowing your purpose in life, and my purpose is to make people feel good through laughter. THE HUB: How has your act evolved since you began? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? HODGE: I’ve grown a lot. Now I use all of my talents that I have been blessed with to show people that I’m really an entertainer and not just a comedian. I’ll be one of the biggest stars coming out of Oakland in five years. THE HUB: How is social media affecting your comedy? Do you have a different style on social media than on stage? HODGE: I’m the same person on and off social media. I like performing in front of a live audience, that way they know I’m not an internet comic. It’s easy to be funny on the internet for a minute, you can pause, edit, start over when you mess up. You can’t do that with a live audience. I love a challenge, so I don’t let social media define me as a comedian. You do need social media to create a following, because people have short attention spans and they like to watch minute videos all day to make them laugh. THE HUB: What would you consider your strongest/ weakest strength? HODGE: My strongest strength is my creator, and my weakest strength is when I forget to put my creator first. n facebook.com/mario.hodge2 instagram.com/mariohodgecomedy

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CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

DEWAYNE JACKSON AKA “INSANE WAYNE” Insane Wayne is one of the hottest comics in the western hemisphere and a native of Stockton, CA. In College he was the king of playing the dozens, (capping). Later he performed live at, “Laughs Unlimited!” Wayne is a natural on stage. He has traveled the world and shared the stage with DL Hughley, Katt Williams, Luenell, Lavell, Bruce-Bruce, to name a few. In 2004 Wayne suffered an injury that left him paralyzed from the waist down. He quickly recovered and began doing, “Stand-Up” from a, “Sit-Down” prospective. Wayne’s accolades as a comedian consist of winning the Bay Area Black Comedy Competition, the Black Expo Central Valley Comedy Competition, runner up on the Shaq All-Stars, Kevin Harts (Hart of the City) and Nick Cannon Wild-N-Out. Wayne is a mentor to up and coming comics, Life Lessons Taught Through Comedy. Insane Wayne’s brand of comedy will truly inspire you. His journey will inspire you to believe in yourself! THE HUB: If you weren’t a comedian what other profession would you see yourself doing? JACKSON: That’s a good question. If you’re asking me before my accident I would say a carpenter, if you’re asking after my accident my answer is a barber. THE HUB:What inspires your style of comedy? How did you acquire the name, “Insane Wayne”? JACKSON: My style of comedy comes from my everyday life experiences. A lot of it comes from my creative side to lot of fabricated stories. I got my name because it rhymes, “Crazy Wayne”, didn’t work for me. THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage?

Stand Up Comics LIVING IT UP

on the West Coast

THE HUB: What qualities do other comedians have that you admire? JACKSON: I admire when comedians can keep it raw and real and uncut. I’m not into all the props that some comedians use. THE HUB: What do you feel are your strengths or weaknesses in your field? JACKSON: My strengths are that I’m creative, spontaneous and overall funny! My only weakness, and I really wouldn’t call this a weakness would be my wheelchair. Being that I’m in a chair I have been overlooked for a lot of opportunities that I have earned and should have been given. I just keep it pushing. THE HUB: What is the strangest thing a fan has ever done for you? JACKSON: I was wearing a Gucci outfit and one of my fans came up to me and gave me his Gucci shades right off his face because it matched my outfit. I also had an incident where a woman in the audience tried to walk up to the stage and her legs gave out, they had to call the paramedics to pick her up off the floor.

JACKSON: Being the winner of the, “2011 Bay Area Black Comedy Competition.”

THE HUB: Did you start out on open mic shows? Do you enjoy open mic?

THE HUB: Before you became a headliner, what was your ah-ha moment when you knew you were on your way and opened up for a celebrity comedian? Who was it?

JACKSON: I’ve done a lot of open mics coming up in the comedy game. It’s called paying your dues. I enjoyed it a lot, as it it allows you to be creative and create new material.

JACKSON: My first a-ha moment was when Katt Williams came to Stockton, the promoter didn’t have his money. I had to get on stage and improv for over 2 hours until they got his money together. Then he came out to perform and only did 10 minutes. My first opening for a headliner was Ms. Lunelle. | 4 0 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

THE HUB: Besides comedy shows, where is the most prestigious event you have performed your act at? JACKSON: I performed at a Roger and Zapp concert.

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CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

continued from page 40

THE HUB: How has your act evolved since you began? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? JACKSON: My act has evolved of lot since I’ve was shot and paralyzed. I didn’t start out doing “stand-up” comedy in my wheelchair. I had to figure out a way to make my situation acceptable to my audience, without creating a so called, “pity on me” type situation.

THE HUB: How is social media affecting your comedy? Do you have a different style on social media than on stage? JACKSON: Nowadays, some comedians are gaining their popularity by being on YouTube or Instagram. Then when they get on a real stage, they don’t know how to work because most never been there before. For me personally I’m not all that big on social media. I’m 40 years old. I started when there were no computers. People had to come out to see you. n

THE HUB: What advice would you offer up and coming comedians? JACKSON: You need to work on your material – work, work, and work! Don’t think just because you get a few laughs at a few clubs you deserve to get paid for your work. You need to put in work and pay your dues. | 4 1 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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Snapchat: INSANEWAYNE Instagram: 209insanewayne

CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

Stand Up Comics LIVING IT UP

LANCE WOODS

on the West Coast

Lance Woods is one of the hottest, most sought after young comedians working today! His high-energy style, unique storytelling ability and clever punch lines give him universal appeal. He has performed at some of the top venues across the country as well as for the U.S. Marine Corp troops in Japan and has also been featured on Hulu and Fox. Lance Woods is truly a comic to watch! THE HUB: You have often said you went from working a day job in a cubicle and stepped out on faith to be a comedian. What was the defining moment to take that step?

THE HUB: You are considered on some levels a clean comic, what inspires your style of comedy? Do you feel pressured to be a clean comic? WOODS: I wouldn’t say that I feel pressured to be a clean comic. I am always aware of my surroundings and my audience. If I’m in an environment that is better suited as a clean show, I am fully capable and comfortable with doing that. With my ability to be clean, one of my biggest inspirations are preachers, my pastor in particular. I’ve always watched how they would engage the crowd, the high energy, and most importantly tell the truth when they have the audience’s attention. THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage? WOODS: I don’t know if I necessarily have a most accomplished moment, but recently my grandmother seen me perform for the very first time. It was her first time to a comedy show. She’s sensitive about language, so for me to perform in front of her for 45 minutes and her just enjoy it, and not be uncomfortable made me feel good.

WOODS: Having to use the bathroom really bad, and there’s still 20 minutes left in my set.

WOODS: I could definitely see myself being a pro athlete because I’m so gifted athletically. Or maybe a hand model, people don’t know that I have really nice hands. I could see myself as a motivation speaker, preacher, or a minister. Anything, having to do with me speaking to crowds of people. I just believe that I have things that need to be heard by the masses. THE HUB: Have you been heckled on stage? How did you handle it?

WOODS: I got fired before I could quit! But I knew once I got fired, I would never go back to working a day job again.

THE HUB: What is your biggest fear on stage?

THE HUB: If you weren’t a comedian what other profession would you see yourself doing?

WOODS: I have been heckled several times. I’ve handled it different ways, sometimes I’ve tried to ignore it. Other times I have engaged in it. I try to shut it down early so that it’s not a continuous problem throughout the show and the heckler tries to become the star. Sometimes people come to the show with that idea in mind. THE HUB: Before you became a headliner, when was your “ah-ha moment” when you knew you were on your way and opened up for a celebrity comedian? WOODS: I haven’t had an “ah-ha moment”. I’ve always felt I would have a big platform and would be headlining shows. June 4, 2015, after the night I opened for Dave Chapelle, the conversations that we had, and just everything about that night, I felt like that was a huge step as far as me viewing things differently and wanting to go to another level. THE HUB: What qualities do other comedians have that you admire? WOODS: I really admire comedians who are fearless on stage. The ones who don’t mind, if the crowd disagrees with their point of view, they just get up there and tell their truth. I think that’s hard for anybody to do no matter what your profession. That’s why I love Richard Pryor and Patrice O’Neal so much. continued on page 43

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CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS continued from page 42

THE HUB: You do characters in your comedy on social media, short stories, skits, etc. Are you considering acting in films in your future? WOODS: Yes, as a matter of fact I just finished my first feature film entitled “A Clear Shot” starring Mario Van Peebles directed by Nick Leisure. So I am excited about that, and doing a lot more acting in the future. THE HUB: Besides comedy shows, where is the most prestigious event you have performed your act at? WOODS: I performed at a funeral. It doesn’t sound prestigious, but the circumstances surrounding it made it prestigious to me. The man that passed was a very prominent business owner that told his family that I was his favorite comedian, so they asked me to perform at his celebration of life. THE HUB: You call yourself, “The International Sex symbol” of (Elk Grove, CA)!! LOL! We know you have toured in Japan, where else have you traveled and what destination is on your bucket list to entertain or visit?

Grove, my range spreads from Yuba City, to Modesto, we can go to Roseville, we can take this a lot of places! I’ve traveled to every coast, too many places to name. Africa is on my bucket list. THE HUB: How is social media affecting your comedy? Do you have a different style on social media than on stage? WOODS: It has definitely helped make people aware of who I am. I think it’s a great tool when it’s used right. My style is different on social media than it is on stage. Online I am a lot more sports heavy, a lot more topical, and a lot louder. There are a lot of things that I talk about on stage that I would never talk about on social media; I don’t want to have certain conversations online, where anyone can say anything from behind a keyboard. THE HUB: What advice would you offer up and coming comedians? WOODS: You have to love the process of comedy, and not just the attention. You have to enjoy being at open mics, and performing at bars in front of five drunken people. You have to enjoy the failures, because all of those things are a part of the journey. n

WOODS: First of all, I don’t call myself the international sex symbol, the streets do. Second of all, it’s not just Elk

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www.LanceWoodsComedy.com | Instagram LanceWoods Twitter @SirLanceWoods | Facebook Lance Woods

CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

DRU BURKS

on the West Coast

Dru Burks, a comedian born and raised in Sacramento, CA. He has been in the comedy game since 2013; he has worked with the likes of Paul Moony, Pierre, Scruncho, and many more!

out, I feel like I rush through them cause in my mind, I’m thinking about the time, when I should be trying to make that time work for me. Now, my strength is how I grab that audience as soon as I hit that stage and give them that energy they want. Once you bring them that energy and they throw it back at you and they start laughing, I know I got them; there’s nothing like it.

THE HUB: What inspires your style of comedy? BURKS: “People.” What I do is take the truth in people’s everyday life and make it funny. As a comedian I look at the world differently. Something may be stressing someone out; when they come to my show I talk about some of those things to make them laugh, to show them it’s not really that stressful, because everyone goes through it. THE HUB: Your most accomplished moment on stage? BURKS: It’s every time I touch that stage and use the gift God gave me to make people laugh. Because no matter what race you are, White, Black etc., when you are looking out at those faces and they are laughing that’s the biggest accomplishment you can ever have on stage. THE HUB: If you weren’t a comedian what other profession would you see yourself doing? BURKS: That’s a great question. I would probably be a DJ, or a radio DJ. I love music and old school Hip Hop. THE HUB: Before you became a headliner, when was your ah-ha moment when you knew you were on your way and opened up for a celebrity comedian? BURKS: It was when I opened up for Paul Mooney! I was so happy when I got that chance, because this man has written for the best! Richard Pryor and Red Foxx just to name a few. I mean when I did that show with him you couldn’t tell me nothing …...I said to myself, “oh this is it, I’m going to the next level now!’ THE HUB: Have you been heckled on stage? How did you handle it? BURKS: Oh yes, and I love it! …. that takes me back when I was a kid and we use to “Cap” or what we called it, bagging on each other. When they heckle me I let them have it. You have to get on a heckler quick to shut them up, and then go back to your comedy routine. THE HUB: What do you feel are your strengths or weaknesses in your performance? BURKS: Man, let’s start with my weakness. It’s when I’m on stage and I only have 15-20 minutes to get these jokes | 4 4 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

Stand Up Comics LIVING IT UP

THE HUB: What is the strangest thing a fan has ever done for you? BURKS: Man, I had a couple bring me a bottle of pure white Hennessy on stage. They brought it back from Jamaica. They remembered at another show I said, “I don’t drink Hennessy cause it would make my skin darker because I’m a lightskin brother for life! They said, “here Dru, you can drink this Hennessy; it won’t make your skin darker!” I laughed so hard! I saved that bottle, ‘cause for me to have them think about one of my jokes on their vacation, I loved it! THE HUB: Did you start out on open mic shows? BURKS: Yes, I started out doing open mics at Cheers on Broadway in South Sac Bobby T’s and the Tent, and the Touch Of Class. We called it the South Sac Tour! It was great, because in those places, they’re going to let you know if you are funny or not. THE HUB: There is a lot of controversy regarding personal phobias or what is politically correct. Has this affected your style of comedy or placed limitations on your act? BURKS: I would have to say no. When I first touch that mic I let the audience know that this is comedy, so if you take anything I say personally you might as well go home. At the end of the day, you came here to laugh, so put your feelings aside. When you look up the definition of a comedian, it’s a noun: “an entertainer whose act is to designed to make an audience laugh.” THE HUB: How do you or how would patrons describe your act? BURKS: One of the “realest lightskin brothers” in the comedy game, who tells the truth and makes it funny, no matter what race you are, rich or poor. THE HUB: How has your act evolved since you began? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? BURKS: I used to be all over the place in my comedy routine, no structure at all. Now I have it down to a science. I see myself with a Netflix Special or performing at the Golden 1 Center. n

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IG Acount: lwa_23 | Face book Account: Dru Burks E-mail:druburks73@mail.com

CENTERSTAGE | SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK COMEDIANS

WINSOR ALSTON III AKA “RICCO DA GREAT” THE HUB: Before you became a headliner, when was your ah-ha moment when you knew you opened up for a celebrity and you knew you were on your way? RICCO: It was when the comedian Rodney Perry came up on stage after me, and said to the crowd that I was funny. THE HUB: What is the strangest thing a fan has ever done for you? RICCO: Once a fan invited me to go on a date with his wife. He was asking me on her behalf. THE HUB: Did you start out on open mic shows? Do you enjoy open mic? RICCO: Yes. I still enjoy open mic. I will never stop going to open mic.

Winsor Alston III aka “Ricco Da Great” was born in Sacramento, CA and raised in Berkeley, CA. Raised in Berkeley, Ricco would dwell in Sacramento to visit family. Ricco spent most of his time playing basketball and had a promising career until he had a nearly fatal car accident in 1995. Ricco went through several years trying to redefine himself. It wasn’t until a friend encouraged him to compete in an open mic session in 2010 that Ricco found his calling as a comedian. Since then, Ricco Da Great has gone on to be known as one of Northern California’s most highly sought after comedians. He has performed with comedians, Paul Mooney, DC Curry, Mike E. Winfield, Cocoa Brown, Tony Roberts and many more. Ricco Da Great was named the 2015 Northern California Comedian of the Year. In 2018 he was recognized as the Sacramento Comedy Legend, by the Sounds of Soul Black Music Awards. He regularly hosts and performs at the Touch of Class in Sacramento and JB’s Lounge in Rancho Cordova. Ricco also continues to perform at various locations throughout the West Coast. THE HUB: What is your most accomplished moment on stage? RICCO: It was when I performed in front of the Great Paul Mooney, and he told me that “I” was funny!

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THE HUB: There is a lot of controversy regarding personal phobias or what is politically correct. Has this affected your style of comedy or placed limitations on your act? RICCO: No. I have no limitations on what I talk about. I am not here to hurt people or make them feel bad about who they are. I’m not about being derogatory towards the people in the audience when I’m on stage. THE HUB: Besides comedy shows, where is the most prestigious event you have performed your act at? RICCO: The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. THE HUB: How has your act evolved since you began? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? RICCO: Since my early days, I have become a better storyteller. In five years, I see myself acting. THE HUB: What advice would you offer up and coming comedians? RICCO: Stay getting on the stage. Try to do as much comedy as you can. Watch everybody, “I mean everybody”, even people you don’t particularly like. THE HUB: How is social media affecting your comedy? Do you have a different style on social media than on stage? RICCO: It is a hindrance at times because I see my comedy being recorded and used to make skits out of them. It does make me dig into my bag a little deeper. I am the same person on social media and on stage. I never change. n

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FB sympbol @Winsor Riccodagreat Alston Instagram symbol @riccodagreat thericcodagreat.com

RECOGNIZING

BLACK MUSIC

stars

SHADIA POWELL: SOUL SINGER By Contributing Writer, Lesley Leatherwood

f classical music, sultry jazz, funk and three decades worth of contemporary pop/rock/soul could all get together and have a love child, the product of that wild union might very well be soul singer, “Shadia Powell”! Her birth name, North African in origin, is arabic with one meaning as singer, after the legendary singer Shadiah. The smoky sweet sounds of regional jazz and rhythm & blues vocal stylist Shadia Powell, originates from a varied background in the arts. Her earliest musical influences were her parents—her mother who studied Italian classical voice. Her mom took her to see her first opera at age eleven. Shadia’s father, who is an avid music lover, exposed her to the blues, as well as a wide range of popular R&B artists. Born in the Fillmore District of San Francisco, Shadia listened to Gil Scott Heron, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Kahn, Prince, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Schubert and Mozart. She listened to and played Mozart during High School and upon graduation received a scholarship and Sacramento City Wide Honors as a lead flutist. What she believes the power of music is, is perhaps equivalent to pop musician Prince’s allusion to the power of love; it’s is bigger than any one individual and necessary. In her spare time she likes hip-hop dance, playing chess, enjoying new music and watching great films. Ms. Powell performs for most all special occasions including weddings, festivals and private parties. | 4 6 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

THE HUB: What does National Black Music Month mean to you? What do you hope people will learn to understand what it represents in the future? POWELL: Wow! Where do I begin. My hope is that artist and music lovers will continue to understand that real music matters. Live instrumentation and the vocal instrument does matter, quality of sound, music content, soul music, rhythm & blues, funk, jazz, all genres in which we have made extraordinary contributions to, and how you promote your musical talent does matter. It’s important that we pay homage to the greats who have paved our musical streets gold. Artist must continue to represent, promote and perform with the same integrity in which the greats did. The future of our music depends on it. This honorary month to our music represents greatness. It means our contributions are powerful. It means music is love. And so are we! THE HUB: What venue would you like to see yourself performing at? POWELL: Any venue with an audience that welcomes great music that feeds the soul. Whether you’re an original artist, cover band, etc., it’s never the venue that matters, solely the people. Whether it’s one person or thousands, you can touch the masses with just one note. The venue lies in the hearts of music lovers.

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THE HUB: Where would you like to see your music career take you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? POWELL: I see myself at industry level. A “Jackie” of all trades so to speak. A known podcast personality, a published author, motivational speaker, production manager, promoter, perhaps managing artist, booking, PR consulting, a recording artist, host of my own show on the radio or even my own music segments on television. I always think upward. It’s the only way to be. God has given me so much. I believe my light has a purpose. THE HUB: Many schools have taken away the music programs. Do you feel that this is an essential part of education that should be reinstated? POWELL: It’s a very sad reality, unfortunately. Definitely reinstate these music programs! I encourage families to embrace and support your creative and artistic child. Support their musical interest by getting them lessons, finding local musicians or singers in the city that will teach your child for an affordable price. We need the programs back in school but we can’t depend solely on the schools. There are creative outlets everywhere. THE HUB: As a woman in a male dominated field, what changes would you like to see to help even up the playing field? What are some of the pros and cons? POWELL: Women are shining bright! Trust me, our torches are lit and held high. I believe we have a very supportive music community. Men and women support each other. I do think us women need to continue to walk in our light. Step into our greatness and be confident in it. It’s very easy for women to feel slighted or unsupported in an industry that often times sees our body first. We are always judged by the way we look. It’s not ok. It’s time we reject the industry standards of beauty and walk in our own light. There is room for all of us. Change starts within. Be confident and step out to the stage and share your gift. THE HUB: You were recently on Sac & Co. Tell us about your day on the show. POWELL: Sac & Co on ABC10 is awesome! Executive Producer Desiree Sheppard, Mellisa, Paul, Steve, Josef and the entire team are amazing. We were originally contacted to perform on the show with our band for Black History Month. Such an honor. I’m teaming up with Sac & Co to highlight other artists in the city. I commend Sac & Co for allowing us to spotlight great artists. It’s a huge contribution to the music community, both for the performers and the listeners. THE HUB: You have started your own podcast. What type of topics do you talk about? Where do you see this show evolving to? | 4 7 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

POWELL: I have Cloud 9 and Str8 Shot Podcast. My brother (Raw and Uncut with Akeem Podcast - https:// rawwithakeem.podbean.com/), Kelvo and I started this venture a year ago and we are very excited about it. We will cover a wealth of topics. We took a brief hiatus and now we’re back and feeling amazing. We have received so much love and we are grateful. We are worldwide and on all platforms. I see thousands and maybe even millions of followers and subscribers. I foresee us being well known podcast personalities that impact the masses. THE HUB: You have your own style of music, your mother sang opera and your dad loved the Blues. Have you dabbled with either of those genres of music and are they incorporated with your style? POWELL: I have been blessed to incorporate all genres. I don’t sing opera but it has influenced my style. My mom has a presence. Opera singers command the stage and carry themselves in a very graceful way. I love opera for this very reason. It has influenced my stage performance as an entertainer. I come out strong, confident and hopefully my audience would say...graceful. I sing the blues as well. My dad played all the great blues legends in the home. There is nothing like it. It will always be a genre that’s incorporated with my style. n I want to say thank you to everyone who continues to support and be a part of my entertainment journey. I am grateful to all of you. Connect with Shadia: Facebook @shadia.powell Instagram @lovingshadia | shadiasings@gmail.com

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HERSH WHITE R&B ARTIST

By Contributing Writer, Lesley Leatherwood

n February 8th, 2019 emerging artist Hersh White released the, “Today Is Our Day” single. This is his first project released under Center Stage Media Group, A. J. Inclusive Co. “Today Is Our Day” was released a week before Valentine’s Day 2019 and has already begun to garner positive reviews. Fans of true R&B and soul need to hear this record. It’s a modern day take on a throwback to the love ballads of the late 80’s and 90’s. Driven by faith and a desire to entertain and serenade R&B fans with love ballads and toe tapping music. Hersh White is a young artist, born and raised in San Francisco Bay Area. In creating his own path, with tremendous support, his desire is to present an intimate love and happiness, feel good genre sound. Influenced by soul R&B legends such as Gerald Levert, Johnny Gill, Teddy Pendergrass and soulful crooners like Luther Vandross, Charlie Wilson, and Lenny Williams. Hersh spreads a message of joy, passion, intimacy, inspiration and love, that he calls, “Putting That Hersh On It”. “Today Is Our Day” (The Wedding Anthem) is available for download and streaming on all major streaming sites, Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, Tidal, and Soundcloud. n facebook.com/hersh.gotti

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GLENN JONES

GRAMMY NOMINATED RECORDING PRODUCER AND ARTIST By Contributing Writer, Lesley Leatherwood

here’s no stopping Grammy nominated recording producer and artist Glenn Jones. His new single, “Love By Design” featuring Grammy Award winner Regina Belle, hits the Billboard smooth jazz charts as #1 most added smooth jazz vocal record in the nation. This single showcases Glenn’s signature tenor. This marks the legendary R&B pair’s second duet after 2001’s “From Now On” written by James Day and produced by jazz producer Chris “Big Dog” Davis. Talent Room Entertainment (TRE) is a new independent music, film, and media company founded in 2018 by Glenn Jones, based in Atlanta. TRE label celebrates the release of its first music project titled “Love By Design”, and production of an upcoming radio segment titled “Behind The Curtain” with Glenn Jones. The new CD is a mixture of new timeless love songs and up-tempo classics. One is titled “Cook-Out” co-written and produced by Chuckii Booker. It features the Jazz sounds of Nick Colionne, Kim Waters and renowned gospel artist Genobia Jeter-Jones. The upcoming, “Love By Design Tour” will feature music from the CD, and all the Glenn Jones classics. Jones is still one of the most sought-after music artists today. Once you’ve heard “Here I Go Again”, “We’ve Only Just Begun (The Romance Is Not Over)”, “Baby Come Home”, “I’ve Been Searching”, “Show Me” and “I Wonder Why”, there’s no doubt your soul will be touched. His inspirational single, “Everyday” was a family reunion joined on vocals by his wife, Genobia Jeter-Jones and their niece Y’anna Crawley. The song features background vocals by Dave Hollister. The result is a blend of family love. Jones received a Stellar Award for his lyrics, superior vocals and lending his production talents to the gospel quartet, Canton Spirituals (Verity Records), hits including “Never Let Go” and “They Need to Belong”. Jones added acting to his repertoire, joining and touring with the casts of “The Devil Made Me Do It” and “When a Woman’s Fed Up”, for nearly two years. Learning to act was great training as a performer.” Jones also showed his patriotism, performing for the troops in Iraq and Kuwait. A native of Jacksonville, Florida Jones recalls at the age of 4 or 5 his love for music. As he was brought up in the Pentecostal church, he risked punishment to sneak a listen to the secular sounds of Stevie, Bobby, Marvin and Donny. Influenced by these sounds, Jones formed a group, “The Modulations,” at the age of 14. He was later discovered by the late gospel legend, Reverend James Cleveland. Making his mark in the gospel arena, Jones’ voice caught the ear of musician, Norman Connors with whom he toured and began performing R&B. Jones joined RCA Records four years later and he signed with Jive Records, enjoying success with his self-titled album, “We’ve

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Only Just Begun (The Romance Is Not Over)” and “Stay.” His move to Atlantic Records produced hits “Here I Go Again” and “I’ve Been Searching (Nobody Like You)”. In 1998, Jones signed with SAR for the independent release of “It’s Time” as it sold nearly 200,000 copies, via internet, and retail sales. The album included the hit single “Baby Come Home”, a top 5 R&B single that was one of the top ten most played records for 2000, according to Billboard. In a recent radio interview, Jones recants being backstage with Peabo Bryson. Peabo told Jones, Luther Vandross said, “There are three R&B Crooners: Luther, Peabo & Glenn Jones”. Jones stated, “I was like wow, really!” Jones has shared the stage with Dionne Warwick and Aretha Franklin. Jones states “I’ve been in the game for over 30 years. I’m blessed to still be doing my thing. I owe it all to God. My mother said two things I’ll never forget, my talent would make room for me, and that my life is in God’s hands, and I believe that.” Jones is the founder of his non-profit, The Love Jones Foundation (LJF), in memory of his mother-Ella Lee Jones. LJF provides educational programs to youth and music therapy to the elderly. n GlennJonesMusic.com

DID YOU KNOW? | ARTS & CULTURE

HUB EXCLUSIVE! THE ICONIC DIONNE WARWICK TALKS NEW ALBUM, UPCOMING SHOW AT THE GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS IN MODESTO

By Contributing Writer, Michael P. Coleman

The Gallo Center for the Arts has a reputation for bringing the very best of a variety of genres to Modesto. They also are known for kicking off each season with a worldclass performer. Past season openers have included Johnny Mathis, Natalie Cole, Jay Leno, and Bill Cosby. That rich tradition will continue this fall: the legendary Dionne Warwick is getting the Gallo Center’s 2019-2020 season started on September 27. Warwick just released her latest album, She’s Back, and has sold over 100 million records during her six decade career. Do any of these titles ring a bell? “That’s What Friends Are For” “Walk On By” “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” “I Say A Little Prayer” “Deja Vu” “A House Is Not A Home” You remember her stunning duets, including “Friends In Love” with Mathis, “Love Power” with Jeffrey Osborne, “Then Came You” with The Spinners, and “How Many Times Can We Say Goodbye” with Luther Vandross. You recall the two international smashes that the six time Grammy winner never liked and didn’t want to record: “Do You Know The Way To San Jose” and “Heartbreaker.” And then there’s my all-time favorite: “Message To Michael”. Can you guess why that one’s my favorite? As a teenager, I used to imagine she was singing it to and about me! (I won’t front: I still do!) Her live version from a 22-minute hit-filled medley on her 1981 live album is absolutely magical. At 78 years old, Warwick is still going strong with a brand new album, She’s Back. As the icon has been recording and touring since 1963, I found the album’s title to be a curiosity, so I had to ask her about it. “Believe it or not, I hadn’t recorded anything in well over five years,” Warwick EXCLUSIVELY told me by phone. “I’d been genuinely accosted by people — at the supermarket, at the airport, just walking down the street — with ‘When are you going to record something?’ or “We need new music from you.’ It just got to be repetitive.” “Finally, my son Damon Elliot, who produced the new CD for me, convinced me that it was time to get back into the studio,” Warwick continued. “I hope I’ve quelled all of the | 5 0 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

“when-are-you-going-to-do-something” questions with She’s Back!” Warwick is indeed back, with one of the smoothest, most contemporary albums of her six decade career. She’s Back includes collaborations with artists including Brian McKnight, Musiq Soulchild, and Krayzie Bone. The lady’s message is clear: she is not only “back,” but she’s back with a vengeance. There are very few vocalists still around like Warwick, with a unique vocal sound, an unerring ear for a great song, and virtually unmatched interpretive storytelling skills. She got into a bit of a dust-up earlier this spring regarding her take on today’s music makers, but I think if anyone has a right to chime in on what an “icon” is, it’s Miss Dionne Warwick! Warwick told me that she’ll perform selections from the new album, along with those hits we all want to hear, at the Gallo Center in September. I’m sure that the house will be full, that her fans will love the show, and that Warwick’s concert will be the first of many memorable performances during the Gallo Center’s 2019-2020 season. Season subscriptions are available now, and you can select any five shows. Tickets to individual performances are available June 17. n Look to sacculturalhub.com in the coming weeks for more of MPC’s EXCLUSIVE interview with the incomparable Dionne Warwick. She goes into detail about the new album, and she gave him a peak into her song selection process. Go to galloarts.org to check out the Gallo Center’s 2019-2020 schedule. Dionne Warwick’s new album She’s Back is available on all major digital outlets and at Target. Connect with freelance writer Michael P Coleman at michaelpcoleman.com, or follow him on Twitter: @ColemanMichaelP

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“WHEN WE WERE COLORED”:

SCREENPLAY INTERVIEW WITH GINGER RUTLAND By Contributing Writer, Donna Michele Ramos

inger Rutland is the Associate Editor with the Sacramento Bee and has been on the editorial board since 1988. Mrs. Rutland won the National Council on Crime and Delinquency PASS Award for editorials on juvenile justice. She was also a TV reporter for 17 years. A graduate of Howard University, who is married and has a daughter named Eva. She wrote the screenplay “When We Were Colored,” for her mother Eva Rutland’s book.

THE HUB: What made you adapt your mother Eva’s book into a play? Rutland: Originally it was published in 1964 under the title, “The Trouble with Being a Mama.” The book was reprinted in 2007, under the title “When We Were Colored.” I read a section from it, “Trouble with Papa” at my dad’s funeral in 2005. Everybody wanted the book; but it had been out of print, so my family decided to republish it. Mom and I went to New York and Atlanta promoting the book and we had a good time. In Ashland, Oregon they do a lot of Black plays and they’re grim. I thought, I’m Black, life isn’t that bad, why not do mother’s book? They said you’re right, most of the plays we do are sad. If you think your mom’s book would make a good play, write it. THE HUB: What was the process like? How was this experience different from doing print journalism? Rutland: I was at all the rehearsals and I altered the script as we went along. I had no trepidation; I’ve been a writer all my life. But it was different in that it’s a play, it doesn’t have to be the whole truth nothing but the truth. The incidents that happened to me, my sister and others I focused it to happen to one character, Ginger.

B Street Theater and Celebration Arts. The play got into Stephen Eich’s hands of former executive director of Steppenwolf, head of Pasadena Playhouse and the Geffen Theater in Los Angeles. The only place who wanted to do it, was Sacramento Community Theater. They helped with the casting call and did the usual things they do. I got to be at auditions and had input on the casting. THE HUB: Did you ever discuss turning the book into a play with your mother? Rutland: No my mom died in 2012 and it didn’t occur to me to adapt the book until after. She would have loved it; she was a drama minor in college. THE HUB: Do you have future plans to write more plays? Rutland: There’s one romance title: “No Crystal Stair;” my mother took the title from a Langston Hughes poem, “Mother to Son.” My mother took her real life and turned it into a romance novel. I’m working on the screenplay now; this inspired me. The play is the story of a Black woman born and raised by a Black doctor and socialite mother in the segregated South. She was expected to marry a Black doctor from there and raise a family. Instead she married a Tuskegee Airman. After the war, they move to the city. The story follows mom’s life a lot but it is more glamorized. n More about When We Were Colored that had show dates Mar 20, 2019 - Apr 28, 2019 sactheatre.org/shows/when-we-were-colored-a-world-premiere-play

THE HUB: Was it difficult to get backing for the play? Rutland: A little, I did it five years ago in my church. I tried to get professional theaters to do it, so I rewrote it with tension between me and my parents. That made it inter-generational. I also added a debate expanding Ginger’s role. I went to the | 5 1 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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DID YOU KNOW? | ARTS & CULTURE

The Future of Fathers By Contributing Writer, Donna Michele Ramos

Rick McPhearson wrote and published his first book; “The Future of Fathers” and had a successful book signing at Underground Books.

was the most difficult place to write but not Starbucks, my writing flowed there. THE HUB: What message do you hope people will take away from your book? McPhearson: I especially want non fathers to see this is a real pandemic, men not stepping up to their fatherly duties. Fathers have a major bearing on our futures. I really want people to join me in the fight and cause. The struggle is real. I work with kids with no fathers. I know these kids can’t make it. I made it because I had people to help me. I want to start a Facebook Live Future Fathers Friday. We’ll show dads how to put together easy meals, how to deal with homework, how to find and use resources as well as where to locate free programs to help your child be successful. It’s a large daunting task, but I won’t shy away from it.

THE HUB: Growing up who were your role models? What did you learn from them? What do you hope to impart to your readers? McPhearson: I had no dad in the house, but I had two older brothers 11 and 12 years older than me. Ron Harrison, my high school wood shop instructor, was like a dad to me. I introduced him as my dad at my book signing. THE HUB: What is your current career? What are your future plans? McPhearson: I work for the State of California but I worked for a nonprofit Sacramento foundation, working with youth for 20 years. My love is working with nonprofits, saving children. I have decided to create my own nonprofit. So the future goal is to find and connect to funding with a hand from man and a heart from God to support our future endeavors. It will be wraparound programming, wrapping around not just the youth but the entire family. THE HUB: What inspired you to write your book “The Future of Fathers”? McPhearson: I was having problems with my daughter and our relationship. She had problems working through her mother and I getting divorced. A female mentor turned me on to the book “Strong Fathers and Strong Daughters”. I decided men needed something like this, something they can understand. Since the book I read was very useful for me, my book can help some dads who are failing, turn around. THE HUB: How long did it take to write your book? McPhearson:14 months but 4 of those months I did no writing, I lost my comfort zone. I had writer’s block and found myself not wanting to write. I realized my home | 5 2 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

THE HUB: How was your signing at Underground Books? Was it your first book signing? Do you have more scheduled? McPhearson: Oh my goodness! It was so rewarding. I had such a good support group with 30 – 40 people who showed up and 30 people purchased books. Some had already purchased the book. This was my first book signing and I have a few scheduled in the Bay Area, which is where I’m from. In May I had a signing at Overfelt High School, it’s my old high school. In April I had a signing at Barnes and Noble in Cupertino. I also had a radio interview on Station 96.5. I’m from San Jose and my friends are trying to get me on TV, on San Jose Channel KNTV11. I have two more books being edited: “The Future of Families” and “The System: 5 Phases for Living a Meaningful Everyday Life.” Schools should have The System in it, it teaches kids how to be meaningful students. THE HUB: Anything we haven’t covered that you would like to add? McPhearson: My mom Jessie Mae was a strong women, she raised her 6 boys and 1 niece and 1 nephew all by herself. She used to say, “I’m more woman than you will ever need and more man than you will ever meet!” n

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Connect with Rick at facebook.com/rick.mcphearson.52

DID YOU KNOW? | ARTS & CULTURE

WHO’S WHO IN NEW TRANSIT TECHNOLOGY? By Contributing Writer, Donna Michele Ramos

exter Vizinau is doing groundbreaking work in new transit technology. He is the President of CyberTran International, a company that created and manufactures alternative transportation vehicles. THE HUB: In 2008 you came on board with new transit technology. As the current president of CyberTran International, what is your goal for CyberTran vehicles? Vizinau: I joined CyberTran in 2008 as they had been working on commercializing tech since 1994. It’s been a long journey. They were my client before I came on board. Our goal has been for full scale demonstration, deployment and getting funding to do it. I learned quickly when it comes to transit and innovation, everyone wants to be second, no one wants to be first. We have solar and electric cars. Uber and Lyft are moving towards autonomous autos. There’s a 60-year backlog in the transit market and domestically because it costs so much money for transit. Even though it’s more affordable and lots of communities want and need transit but they don’t have money for it. They have to pass measures and it takes a long time to do this and get the needed funding to implement change. Communities that have money play it safe and do the same thing again. But why would we plan our future with yesterday’s tech? THE HUB: I understand the CyberTran system has been built and tested. Any idea when it will be operational? Where in the East Bay will it operate? Vizinau: We’re encouraged about where we are now and I believe by fall there will be good news. There are two prototypes; one is operating at the U.S. Department of Energy Idaho Mall lab. It’s been taken to 60 mph and can climb a 10% grade; like going over the Grapevine where other companies have to go through with tunnels. Low cost isn’t an incentive in transportation, so governments go to the taxpayers to get measures passed. It typically costs $100-500 million a mile and they can’t get it to go where they want it to go. Transit inherently loses money, | 5 3 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

that’s why government has to do it, because they have the funding. There is a $78 billion backlog in U.S. transit maintenance because it doesn’t pay for itself, over time. Our system could not only break even but also pay for itself. We don’t have engineering problems; we have political problems. Engineers see all the applications. It’s similar to what Steve Jobs did with the phone, computer and camera. He combined them and made the smartphone. Jobs took existing tech and made it work better. We have buyers and are ready. THE HUB: This will help traffic congestion immensely. Is there any study yet that provides the amount of time that will be cut off of a commuter’s trip to work? Vizinau: Studies have not been done around specific details. Idaho Lab is the size of Rhode Island and they wanted a transit system to get around their campus. They put it out for bid and got sticker shock. They decided to do it themselves, reduce costs, add safety and efficiency. Commuting now you deal with finding parking, trains that make numerous stops, you may have to transfer to another line and take a bus or Uber. Hopefully you won’t have to and you can walk far getting off at your stop. We eliminate transferring and stops. You only stop where you want to stop. We’re on demand, people boarding the vehicle with you are going to your destination, so it takes you where you want to go nonstop, anywhere in the network. We build out network systems, our medium and high-speed vehicles go around town at 35 mph, 55 mph on freeways. Cars go up to 85 mph, the rate of speed depends on our location. It is like Uber on rails, except you are not stuck in traffic. You call our network transportation via the internet and it arrives to take you to your destination. THE HUB: Will CyberTran eventually replace diesel-fueled rail systems that have been used since the 1930’s? Vizinau: This is disruptive technology. It’s like being a horse rancher in the 1800’s and then the automobile comes; because it’s going to change everything about how we travel. The public wanted the automobile but horse ranchers put lots of pressure on leaders to resist autos because jobs would be lost, etc. But the public demanded autos. Where would we be if the government didn’t put in roads? This is a perfect example of a public/private partnership. We’re providing vehicles but the government has to put in rails. In every major city in the world, people are stuck in traffic daily. We have to do something different, what we’re doing today doesn’t work. Adding more lanes only adds more traffic. We need to focus on innovations, that help the people that need them the most. n

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cybertran.com

WERE YOU THERE?

“DEAR MAMA: A LOVE LETTER TO MOM”

VH1 SPECIAL EVENT AT THE THEATRE AT ACE HOTEL ON MAY 2, 2019 IN LOS ANGELES, CA

Luke James, mother

Shia Douglas, Tina Douglas, Ashanti

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Grandmother Gladys, Ciara, Jackie Harris

Anthony Anderson, Doris Hancox

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Monica Brown, Laiyah Shannon Brown

Carmen Surillo, La La Anthony

Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas and Kevin Jonas

Saweetie and Quavo

Offset & Cardi B

2019 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS HELD AT THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS ON MAY 1, 2019

Ella Mai

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Jennifer Hudson

Khaled

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Ciara

WERE YOU THERE? 2019 Black Physicians Forum speakers were 2019 BLACK PHYSICIANS The outstanding as they presented on: “Implicit Bias Awareness: Where Do We Go From Here?” at the UC Davis of Medicine in Sacramento. Leon McDougle, MD, FORUM ON MAY 3, 2019 School MPH (Chief Diversity Officer, Professor of Family Medicine, By Contributing Writer, Valarie Scruggs

The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center); Stacie L. Walton, MD, MPH (Retired Clinical Pediatrician Diversity Champion and Communication Consultant); Piri AckermanBarger, PhD, RN (Assistant Clinical Professor Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing); and MC/Host Flojuane Cofer, PhD, MPH (Women’s Health Epidemiologist & Senior Director of Policy at Public Health Advocates) gave the audience an incredible perspective and tools to address implicit bias operating in health care starting with the educational system and moving into the exam room. Often medical literature discusses the bias that contributes to health disparities among African Americans and other people of color. However, the impact of implicit bias on medical professionals of color whose job it is to provide care to all people is rarely included in the discussion. Medical professionals of color are subjected to bias from both patients and colleagues. Microaggressions such as patients assuming they are housekeeping staff, a patient refusing their assistance in delivering a baby for solely racial reasons, and colleagues who question their medical opinions more readily than other colleagues that are not of color are but a few of the examples shared. There is a role to play for everyone to begin reducing implicit bias in health care. Step 1 is checking to ensure that you are not the source of implicit bias. Being honest and asking where one’s ideas and perceptions come from is key. The assumptions we make when we’re not fully present or rushed can also have negative impacts on others. Step 2 if you’re the recipient of implicit bias microaggressions give yourself a break. It’s not always easy or necessary to respond immediately to these issues. Practice self-care, take time to gain perspective and heal. Step 3 if you are the innocent bystander witnessing implicit bias microaggressions, speak up. It may just be acknowledging that something off was said or didn’t feel right. The bystander can help to create an environment where these problems can be acknowledged and discussed which is key to moving past them. UC Davis Health is doing wonderful things to help address implicit bias. Working with medical students, providing mentors, and conducting training for staff are a few of the ways UC Davis Health Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is working to keep medical students in their programs and create a culture in medical care that offers high quality services to both staff and patients. n For more info on next year’s Forum, go to: http://www.sacculturalhub. com/black-physicians-forum/black-physicians-forum

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T H E H UB MAGAZI NE | 5 7 |

2019 SOLDIERS SPRING YOUTH SUMMIT

One of the attendees, Grace Cuffee who will be a 10th grader in the upcoming school year at Valley High School had this to say about the Summit: “I along with other teenagers participated in multiple anti-tobacco activities including creating our own anti-tobacco campaign and By Chief Editor, Pleshette Robertson posters. The summit was a great way to get teens together to learn the consequences of tobacco and the damages smoking tobacco does on a person. We learned that Investing in our future is paramount to educating our youth and building leadership skills to be health advocates flavored tobacco sales are typically sold cheaper and advertised more in black communities. The Summit was for their community. Approximately 35 teenagers and young adults gathered for its 2019 SOLdiers Spring Youth a fun yet educational event, it taught me that if you are Summit presented by Saving Our Legacy (SOL) for African doing it [e.g. – smoking, vaping], your younger sibling is Americans for Smoke Free Safe Places – The SOL Project 87% more likely to copy you. And, the Summit was a great turnout, great to hear opinions from others, and meet new on Saturday, April 13 from 10 am to 5 pm in Elk Grove. people.” n Elementary, junior high, high school and college students attended from Sacramento, Stockton and Mountain House. To learn more about The SOL Project, go to: www.thesolproject.com Guest speakers presented on the dangers of tobacco, vapes, and other smoking products and why messaging matters. Speakers included: Twlia Laster, Project Director at The SOL Project; Analyse Houston, Community Engagement Coordinator at The SOL Project; Leslie Ferreira, Youth Advocacy Training & Outreach Manager at Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids; Godfrey Ramos, Coordinating Specialist at The LOOP – Dept. of Social & Behavioral Sciences School of Nursing, UCSF. Project Director, Twlia Laster stated: “These brilliant youth learned about tobacco and vape industry targeting and why messaging matters when talking to decision makers to influencing policy change. I’m so excited about their leadership in becoming the first tobacco free generation!” Several student groups that participated included the Black Student Union of California in San Joaquin County, West2West, Sac Hub Youth Ambassadors, and Aspire Schools Black Student Union. Fun time for all participants in the late afternoon included: glow bowling, glow mini golf and laser tag. | 5 8 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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WERE YOU THERE?

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WERE YOU THERE?

ENTREPRENEUR’S EDGE CONFERENCE ON MAY 20 AT SUTTER CLUB By Chief Editor, Pleshette Robertson Presented by NWABO Sacramento Foundation - one-day, oneof-a-kind, women-focused event bringing professional women together for interactive, intimate round-table discussions across multiple professions and areas of expertise geared to help individuals succeed in your career and business. n More info go to: nawbo-sac.org phototia.com Tia Gemmell

phototia.com Tia Gemmell

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phototia.com Tia Gemmell

WERE YOU THERE?

BREAKING RECORDS AT THE MASTERS CLUB CELEBRATION by Chief Editor, Pleshette Robertson AWESOME celebration event at the California State Railroad Museum Foundation on April 18, 2019 honoring new members into the Masters Club Sacramento Association of Realtors. CONGRATS to Terrelle Keys, aka T.Keys, on placing in the top 9% of sales of all Sac Real Estate Professionals in Sacramento County in his 1st year. CONGRATULATIONS also goes to the G.O.A.T. Black woman Zoritha Thompson (Broker & Owner of Goree & Thompson Real Estate) for being inducted as a Presidential Member of 25 years in top 9% of sales of all Sac Real Estate Professionals in Sacramento County. Zoritha Thompson stated: “It was symbolic that Terrelle was entering his first year and me my 25th year in the “Masters Club”, reminded me so much of my late business partner, Carolyn Jean Goree, who spurred my real estate career early on and now I’m doing that with Terrelle...it was an incredible night of gratitude and reflection!” n sacrealtor.org/members/masters-club

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JUST SOME OF THE STUFF RAMBLING AROUND IN MICHAEL P COLEMAN’S HEAD FROM TIME TO TIME…CHECK OUT DOCO! By Contributing Writer, Michael P Coleman Up until recently, I’d exclusively experienced Sacramento’s Downtown Commons area, known as DOCO, via the Golden 1 Center for a variety of concerts. The first one was either Bruno Mars or Janet Jackson…I can’t remember. Anyway, as impressive as that facility is, I had not taken the time to check out the rest of DOCO’s offerings. It was always in, a concert, and out. That changed when my nephew Adam visited Sacramento for the first time, earlier this year. He wanted to experience some of Sacramento’s flavor, so my husband and I took him downtown on a Friday night for dinner and a little nightlife.

Aroc did a hell of a job cleaning my head up and getting me ready for the excellent, light dinner we had at Tiger. My family and I kept dinner light because we’d also planned to check out Coin Op, which offers throw-back video games and some of the best pizza I’ve had this side of Chicago.

Say what you want about former mayor Kevin Johnson, and many have had quite a lot to say about his storied tenure running the city, but he accomplished a lot with the Golden 1 Center. If you’ve not been there, to see the Kings lose (don’t come at me!) or for an exciting concert, you should check it out. And in line with Johnson’s vision, getting the arena up and running drew a diverse set of businesses to a downtown area that had been neglected for far too long.

With the recent talk of the renewed riverfront and Old Sac areas, Sacramento is poised n Connect with Aroc the barber at DOCO Mall Suite 140 (Golden 1 Arena), or call him at 408-420-4108. Tell him Mike with the formerly raggedy-ass taper fade sent you. Connect with freelance writer Michael P Coleman at michaelpcoleman.com or follow him on Twitter: @ ColemanMichaelP

One of the plethora of DOCO retail offerings is a barber shop. Yes, an honest-to-God black barber shop. If I never believed in a higher power, I certainly did that Friday night, after having hidden my raggedy-ass former taper fade under a Golden State Warriors cap all day. (Yes, I realized the irony of me hanging out in the shadow of the Sacramento Kings home in that ball cap!) | 6 2 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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WHY AM I LOSING MY HAIR?

There are so many factors that can cause hair loss. There are two types of thinning hair in women: hereditary and nonhereditary hair loss. Knowing which type you have is the first step to regrow thicker hair. HEREDITARY Hair loss is genetic for most people. Almost every woman eventually develops some degree of female pattern hair loss. It can start any time after the onset of puberty, but women tend to first notice it around menopause, when hair loss typically increases in predictable patterns Hereditary hair loss starts with a progressive shortening of the hair’s growth cycle and a gradual shrinking of your hair follicles so they eventually no longer produce new hair and lead to a general thinning of hair. Hereditary hair loss doesn’t happen overnight; women will gradually experience a general thinning of their hair across the scalp. But if you spot the signs early, you can regrow thicker, more beautiful hair faster.

STRESS, DIET, HORMONAL IMBALANCE Non-hereditary temporary hair loss, telogen effluvium, happens when stress, diet, hormonal imbalance, or a traumatic event causes hair follicles to remain in a resting state, increasing shedding and temporarily thinning hair. Any girl or woman can be affected by hair loss. However, it is usually more common in: • • • •

Women older than 40 Women who have just had babies Women who have had chemotherapy and those who have been affected by other medications Women who often have hairstyles that pull on the hair (like tight ponytails or tight braids) or use harsh chemicals on their hair.

When you don’t understand why your hair loss is happening, it can lead to improper treatments and further damage. Certain prescription drugs can cause hair loss, along with potential side effects. Types of medication that can potentially cause hair loss are blood thinners, vitamin A supplements, some arthritis drugs, antidepressants, gout medication, medication for certain heart problems, blood pressure medication, Thyroid Disorders, and birth control pills.

Tracy Brown Professional Hair Stylist and Co-Owner of Another Look Hair Salon (916) 688-7704

www.anotherlookhairsalon.com Book your appointment now 916-688-7704 | 6 3 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO GO

For more events in Sacramento and beyond, go to www.sacculturalhub.com and list your event for free online. | J U LY |

INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS CELEBRATION AT CAL EXPO IN SACRAMENTO JULY 4 4:30 PM Doors open at 4:30 pm and fireworks start at 9:30 pm. Bring the family, enjoy free activities, have a picnic and see the best fireworks show in the city. calexpo. com/calendar-events/ CELEBRITY GOLF - AMERICAN CENTURY CHAMPIONSHIP AT EDGEWOOD TAHOE GOLF COURSE JULY 9-14 A week of fun, action and excitement at Beautiful Lake Tahoe as 80 pro athletes and Hollywood celebrities compete for their share of a $600,000 purse and the coveted American Century Championship Cup. americancenturychampionship.com

CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR JULY 12-28 Featuring the popular Toyota Concert Series on the Golden 1 Stage with a starring line-up of celebrities that include: TLC on Sun-7/14, Sean Kingston on Fri-7/19, and Tony! Toni! Tone! on Fri7/26. castatefair.org 19TH ANNUAL ART & SOL FESTIVAL JULY 27-28 12 – 6 PM in Downtown Oakland. Music, dance, food and family fun. artandsouloakland.com 102.9 KBLX WELCOMES THE FEMME IT FORWARD TOUR JULY 20 7 PM - 11 PM Concord Pavilion. Featuring: Brandy, Monica, Mya, Amerie, Keri Hilson and Lil Mo.

102.9 KBLX WELCOMES JILL SCOTT JULY 26 The Fox Theater in Oakland. kblx.com/concerts | AUGUST | HUSKYSHOWS PRESENTS DAVE KOZ AND FRIENDS SUMMER HORNS - FEAT. GERALD ALBRIGHT, RICK BRAUN, KENNY LATTIMORE, AND AUBREY LOGAN AUGUST 2 McClellan Conference Center in Sacramento. huskyshows.com SUPER SOUL FEST AUGUST 3 5:30 PM Thunder Valley Outdoor Amphitheater.Featuring the soulful sounds of The O-Jays, The Whispers, Loose Ends feat. Jane Eugene, O’Bryan, Club Nouveau and more! worldonepresents.com 102.9 KBLX WELCOMES 50TH ANNIVERSARY CONCORD JAZZ FESTIVAL AND ART & WINE EXPO AUGUST 3 4 PM TO 9 PM Concord Pavilion. kblx.com/concerts THE WIZ AUGUST 6-11 Wells Fargo Pavilion broadwaysacramento.com

MARY J. BLIGE & NAS AUGUST 14 8 pm to 11 pm Shoreline in Amphitheatre Mt. View. kblx.com/concerts ELK GROVE MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL AUGUST 24 Elk Grove Reginal Park. elkgrove.org STRAUSS FESTIVAL OF ELK GROVE AUGUST 25-28 Elk Grove Regional Park. straussfestival.com NELLY / TLC / FLO RIDA AUGUST 30 7 PM TO 11 PM 102.9 KBLX and Live Nation welcome Nelly, TLC and Flo Rida to the Shoreline Amphitheatre. kblx.com/concerts REWIND | FUNK ‘N SOUL AUGUST 31 5:30 PM Thunder Valley Outdoor Amphitheater. Featuring live performances by: Morris Day & The Time, The Pointer Sisters, Midnight Star, Jody Watley, The Original Mary Jane Girls - Maxi & Cheri. worldonepresents.com | SEPTEMBER |

4TH ANNUAL BLACK WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS CONFERENCE (BWHWC) AUGUST 10 9AM – 3PM UC Davis School of Medicine in the Education Building, 4610 X Street in Sacramento. BWHWC’s motto is “A Healthier You! A Healthier Me! A Healthier We!”. Register at bwhwc.org or call (916) 538-0725 10TH ANNUAL BANANA FESTIVAL “BANANA INTERNATIONAL” AUGUST 10-11 SATURDAY 10 AM TO 7 PM AND SUNDAY 10 AM TO 5 PM William Land Park in Sacramento. sacbananafestival.com KIRK FRANKLIN – THE LONG LIVE LOVE TOUR AUGUST 14 8 PM TO 11 PM The Fox Theater in Oakland. kblx.com/concerts

HUSKYSHOWS PRESENTS WEST COAST JAM W/ RICHARD ELLIOT, PETER WHITE, AND DW3 SEPTEMBER 7 McClellan Conference Center in Sacramento. huskyshows.com V101.1’S BIG BLOCK PARTY ON SAT-9/7 AT THUNDER VALLEY AMPHITHEATER STARRING: KEITH SWEAT & BOBBY BROWN SEPTEMBER 7 with special guests Ma$e, Kid Capri, and Troop. worldonepresents.com BLACK FOOD FEST SEPTEMBER 14 12 – 8 PM 2251 Florin Road in South Sacramento. Come out and celebrate US. Our culture is rich and vast with regard to our music, dance, art, literature, and yes our FOOD. Bring the family out as we celebrate the end of the summer and our culture. Vendors welcome. E-mail BlackFridaySacramento@gmail.com

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JANET JACKSON – A SPECIAL 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF RHYTHM NATION SEPTEMBER 21 8 PM TO 11:30 PM Chase Center in San Francisco. kblx.com/concerts FARM-TO-FORK FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 27-28 at Capitol Mall Greens. farmtofork.com STOCKTON JAZZ FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 28 Weber Point Waterfront in Stockton, CA. smaent.com | ONGOING | OPEN MIC AT MAHOGANY URBAN POETRY SERIES every Wednesday night inside Queen Sheba Restaurant located at 1704 Broadway in Midtown Sacramento (at 17th and Broadway). (916) 446-1223 BOOK SIGNINGS, LECTURES, ART EXHIBITS, AND POETRY/ SPOKENWORD EVENTS AT UNDERGROUND BOOKS, 2814 35th Street in Oak Park, Sacramento. (916) 737-3333 or underground-books.com ART EXHIBITS, OPEN MIC POETRY, WORKSHOPS at Brick House Gallery, 2837 36th Street in Oak Park Sacramento. (916) 475-1240 or thebrickhousegallery.net SACRAMENTO AFRICAN AMERICAN MARKET PLACE on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month located at 2251 Florin Road (nearest cross street is 24th) in South Sacramento – open from 10 am to 5 pm. For more info go to facebook.com/SacramentoAMP or call (916) 730-6386.

Building a strong community of leaders by EDUCATING, PROMOTING, and INSPIRING individuals to pursue their personal, academic, and business goals.

THANK YOU to all those individuals who supported Sac Cultural Hub Media Foundation with donations for 2019 Big Day of Giving (BDOG)! We are so grateful and appreciate all of the BDOG donors. Not only did you raise money for your favorite nonprofit organization, but you were part of the communitywide movement that generated $8.4 million dollars in 24 hours (5/2/19) for nonprofits across the capital area.

www.sacculturalhub.com/media-foundation

SAVE THE DATE!

Big Day of Giving, Thursday, May 7, 2020

What is Big Day of Giving? A program of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s initiative to grow local philanthropy - Big Day of Giving is an annual 24-hour community-wide movement that unites the region’s nonprofit sector to help raise unrestricted funds for the organizations that strengthen the capital area. Since 2013, the giving day has generated nearly $40 million for more than 600 local nonprofits! | 6 5 | T HE H U B M A G A Z I N E

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ADVERTISER INDEX OF HUB PARTNERS To advertise inTHE HUB Magazine, e-mail contact@sacculturalhub.com or call (916) 234-3589

ANOTHER LOOK HAIR SALON www.anotherlookhairsalon.com COLEMAN COMMUNICATIONS www.michaelpcoleman.com CROCKER ART MUSEUM www.crockerartmuseum.org

SACRAMENTO COUNTY CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES www.dhhs.saccounty.net/CPS

CRYSTAL’S HAIR SALON 916.549.8972

SACRAMENTO COUNTY DIVISION OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES www.StopStigmaSacramento.org

DOUBLE TAKE HAIR GALLERY www.facebook.com/tavia.jenkins

SANDRA DEE’S BBQ AND SEAFOOD www.sandradeesbbq.com

DR. EPHRAIM WILLIAMS FAMILY LIFE CENTER www.flcsac.org

TERRY SPEED, D.D.S. www.terrispeeddds.com

FORTUNE SCHOOL www.fortuneschooL.us GOT MUSCLE HEALTH CLUB www.got-muscle.com HAIR BY MS. CHERRY (916) 549-9276 JAMES THE BARBER AND STYLIST (916) 514-2539 MIXED INSTITUTE OF COSMETOLOGY www.mix-ed.com

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MONDAVI CENTER AT UC DAVIS www.mondaviarts.org

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THE GOSPEL VINE www.thegospelvine.com UC DAVIS ucdavis.edu/admissions/undergraduate UC DAVIS HEALTH ChooseHealth.ucdavis.edu UC DAVIS OFFICE OF CAMPUS COMMUNITY RELATIONS http://occr.ucdavis.edu

To advertise your business in THE HUB Magazine, call 916-234-3589 or e-mail advertise@sacculturalhub.com.

Crystal’s Hair Salon Specializing in extensions, precision cut, color, natural hair, relaxer, silk press.

WALK–INS WELCOME

Contact Salon Owner and Sacramento’s SILK Press Queen/Stylist

Relaxer Weave/Bonding Straightening Cut & Colour Braids & Twists Natural Hair

CRYSTAL WHITEHEAD @hair_by_crystal

Another Look Hair Salon 7826 Alta Valley Drive Sacramento, CA 95823

AnotherLookHairSalon.com

Schedule an appointment today!

(916) 688-7704

STRAIGHT

916.549.8972 OUT

H O L LY W O O D Specializing in new urban cuts, colors and natural hairstyles BRAND NEW JAMES HAIRSTYLIST & BARBER

U N I O N S A L O N | 1 7 4 S D E L A C E Y AV E N U E , PA S A D E N A , C A 9 1 1 0 5

MOBILE: 352.497.5763 | SALON: 626.793.7745 @BRANDNEWJAMES

916.451.4600

1007 12th Street Sacramento, CA 95814

WALK-INS WELCOME

The Tavia Jenkins Experience

@taviajenkins

W W W. D O U B L E TA K E G A L L E RY. C O M

THIS IS WHO WE ARE. Valencia Scott ’19

Anthropology and International Relations Transfer from American River College Sacramento, California I am a proud Black Aggie working toward a career in human rights/reproductive justice law. I was nervous about how I would get involved at UC Davis as a transfer student, but the campus and community support have given me amazing experiences: • • • •

Chancellor’s Undergraduate Advisory Board member Black Pre-Law Student Association president AB540 and Undocumented Student Center intern Imani Legal Clinic Director

Opportunities like these have shaped and reinforced my passion for community service.

YOUR FUTURE AWAITS AT UC DAVIS. ucdavis.edu/admissions/undergraduate