Urban Views Weekly June 21, 2017

June 21, 2017

Scholar of the Week - Evan Luck

Keep the students’ minds engaged and productive throughout the summer

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Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

It’s not over: expanding the impact of Father’s Day We need more than a day to celebrate Father’s Day. It’s just gone too soon. It’s one Sunday and then we are back to the every day. Let’s expand Father’s Day by increasing its impact. We can do this by choosing to give to organizations that support boys, young men and fathers.

Your gift would touch lives and expand a father’s loving care across our communities and country.

community there are churches, civic and social organizations, and fraternities that are busy night and day providing athletics, mentoring, food, and friendship to boys and young men. Each would surely welcome the participation of you and your father.

“...think about putting in place a program that you can honor your father...”

Here are the facts: estimated spending on Father’s Day in 2017 is $15.5 million. That’s a lot of money and a lot of love for our individual fathers. Let’s honor dad and share our love by also giving to those organizations that help nurture the next generation. When we donate a portion of that $15.5 million to select nonprofits, we expand the impact of Father’s Day from one day to 365 days.

Boys and Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters are two high-profile organizations known across the country for making an impact on the lives of boys and young men. The same is true of the Boy Scouts, YMCA, the Urban League, and My Brother’s Keeper Alliance. In every

Here are a few things to consider as you expand the impact of Father’s Day.

1. Talk with your father – or the man in your life who you want to honor. Ask him which organizations he believes are changing futures for boys and young men.

Listen to what he says, and then make a donation in his honor. Consider making an automated monthly contribution – that will most certainly expand Father’s Day.

2. Check out their website to learn of opportunities for you and your dad – and your friends – to volunteer. You can volunteer on a regular basis, or when you have time. If you don’t see anything on the website, pick up the phone and ask a live person.

3. Place the needs

continues to page 11

Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com

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Health News

sponsored by VCU Health J. Chevonte’ Alexander

Men’s Health Month June 18th was Father’s Day - a day to recognize all the special men in our lives, but also the month of June is Men’s Health Month – a reminder that men’s health impacts us all. The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. On May 31, 1994, President Bill Clinton signed the bill establishing National Men’s Health Week. Women live an average of five years longer than men, and, in turn, are often affected by the poor health or premature deaths of their husbands, brothers and sons.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of all premature deaths among men are preventable. Currently, women make twice as many preventive care visits as men, so men have twice as many missed opportunities for becoming aware of their health risk factors, preventing disease, and identifying serious health conditions in the early, more manageable stages. It’s time for us to get those special men in our lives to the doctor and on a regular schedule to monitor their health.

Dr. J. Tyler Roseman, an assistant professor of urology at VCU School of Medicine comments that “Men can be very stubborn or even silent about their health issues, and often wait until significant symptoms develop before seeking out care.”

Alarming statistics show that men’s health is at great risk. The problem is that certain illnesses that disproportionately affect men (heart disease, prostate

One of the most common health issues in men is one to which many men often do not want to admit – erectile dysfunction. Early onset of erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Until one talks about it with their healthcare provider, they will not find out about all the options we have to help treat it.

Very often, we know that men are apprehensive to going to the doctor.

“Getting your loved one to the clinic for a check-up can be tricky.” comments Dr. Roseman. “Sometimes engaging his close family or friends can help push him to do the right thing. Other men may respond better to pointing to being able to enjoy important life events like a child’s graduation or wedding.”

cancer, diabetes, testicular cancer and colon cancer) often do not cause symptoms in early stages when they are easier to treat.

About a quarter million men this year will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and it is the most common nonskin cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death in men. This is especially important for African American men, as they have almost double the risk of developing prostate cancer and are about twice as likely to die from prostate cancer.

Knowing your loved one’s family history may also help you keep a closer eye out for potential issues as well. Men with a father or brother with a history of prostate cancer are at greater risk of developing prostate cancer and it is very important that they are screened.

Most men need to pay more attention to their health.

Compared to women, men are more likely to: • Smoke • Drink alcohol • Make unhealthy or risky choices • Put off regular checkups and

continues to page 11

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Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

3

ViewPoints

By Dr. T

… and JUSTICE For ALL? “People can cry much easier than they can change.”

– James Baldwin Although Black Americans have grown accustomed to being disappointed by America’s justice system, we continue to have that small sliver of hope in the arc of the moral universe bending towards justice.

And yet, when we look at the evidence it often feels as though things will never change. Once again, we are confronted by yet another verdict of “Not Guilty.” How is it possible this time? We ALL say!

We watched with our own eyes, on July 6, 2016, Philando Castile being fatally shot by Jeronimo Yanez, a St. Anthony, Minnesota police officer, after being pulled over in Falcon Heights, a suburb of St. Paul, while the entire incident was streamed LIVE on Facebook. Literally, the world witnessed the murder of Philando Castile narrated by his fiancé and watched by her four-year-old child who was huddled in the back seat of the vehicle in which they were riding. Due to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Castile’s death and the cloud of witnesses present on social media, many believed that the police officer would surely suffer the consequences for his actions. If not deliberate manslaughter, then at least reckless use of a firearm. My God, there was a 4-year-old child in the back seat of that car! That small sliver of hope was quickly vanquished last Friday when the jury acquitted the officer of all charges. Again! No justice.

“It becomes clearer each time this narrative is played out that truly in America Black Lives Do Not Matter.”

What do we do with this? How do we digest the injustice of it all? Another Black Mother has joined the countless others who have stood at the podium before news cameras and cried out for justice for her murdered child and there was no justice to be had.

When will that arc start to bend? How many more

Black bodies have to bleed their blood onto the saturated soil of the American promise for equal justice for all before there are no more slivers of hope and no more patience to merely wait on the arc to bend? It becomes clearer each time this narrative is played out that truly in America Black Lives Do Not Matter. The consistency with which Black bodies continue to suffer violence in America is historic and finds its precedent within the slave narratives and not so distant accounts of public lynching, cross burnings, church bombings, dog chases, water hosing, brutal beatings and statesponsored terrorism inflicted on Black bodies throughout our struggle for freedom, equal rights, social justice and our God-given right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

I have seen people of all races weeping over these most recent events, but the outrage in the halls of justice and corridors where laws are made and policies implemented seem to be singularly focused on the shooting of a Congressman and several other “innocent” people as they practiced for a baseball game within sight of our nation’s Capital. There were those who stood before the podium and wept, shaken by the act of violence they had witnessed, although the only life that was lost was that of the deranged gunman. I heard them ask the nation to pray. I know that the two officers who were on the scene and seemed to have thwarted what could have been a massacre laid their Black bodies on the line in a heroic effort to save the lives Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. of those who have the power to legislate CHANGE. I have to ask, will that change actually come?

Founder and Artistic Director Unfortunately, Baldwin’s words remind me that people The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor can cry much easier than they can change.

Virginia Commonwealth University

DrT@Margins2theCenter.com | www.theconciliationproject.org

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The Deal

Could You Turn Your Hobby into a Career?

You can break personal finance into three broad categories: income, expenses and savings. Your personal cash flow statement lists your income and expenses and a common goal is to end each month with a positive balance — with money left over to put into savings.

experience, she has discovered several ways to attract her clients. Some people already have an active lifestyle and don’t necessarily need motivation. For them, she emphasizes her knowledge of fitness and health. She can craft a meal plan that aligns with their physical goals and work with them to improve their form and help prevent injuries.

We often tend to focus on how to make the most with what we have, but don’t forget the third category. With planning, dedication and an understanding of how your skill set could benefit clients, you could make the transition to a more entrepreneurial role and increase your income.

A friend recently shared her experience. She started working out while looking for a way to release stress. Soon, exercise became her hobby. And then her passion. Several years later, she got the necessary training and certifications to go into business for herself as a fitness instructor and personal trainer.

Others have similar experiences. A photography or coding course sparks intrigue, which leads to exploration as a hobbyist and an eventual career or part-time income source.

Or later in life you may decide it’s time for something different and start by exploring your interests and then setting off on an entirely new path.

Acknowledge that you may be giving yourself a new job.

First, consider whether you really want to turn something you enjoy into a financial pursuit. Some people find that the transition can “ruin” their hobby in a way — it could feel like a chore or job rather than an enjoyable outlet. As long as it doesn’t require a substantial upfront financial investment, testing the water before diving in fully could be a good idea.

With the proper clearance, you can stay at your current role and start a small side business or offer your services as a freelancer to see what the experience will be like (and how much money you can make). You might find that a profitable, or cost-covering, hobby is enough.

Identify ways to make your offering uniquely yours.

No matter how hard you try, you can’t will money into existence. It will take a lot of work to make a business succeed and even with a driven entrepreneur at the helm, many businesses don’t make it past the first several years.

But whether you’re creating and selling a physical product or offering a service, you bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. Try to figure out how these can www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

By Nathaniel Sillin

With clients who are struggling to get started, she emphasizes the value of having an accountability partner.

She takes the planning and worry out of working out; they just need to show up.

distinguish your offerings or add a unique twist that will help potential customers meet their goals.

Businesses succeed for a variety of reasons. They might create something entirely new, figure out how to make something less expensive or more luxurious, put their efforts into customer support or figure out a fun and creative way to advertise their product.

Figure out who your target customers are and what they like. If you’re going to make money you’ll want to identify a target market. Generally, this will be a group of people who want and can afford your offering. Both qualifiers are equally important.

Be brutally honest with yourself. There isn’t always a profitable market, and some hobbies don’t make great businesses.

Working within a proven market — selling something that people already buy — can be a good thing because you know there’s at least some demand. From there, you can figure out the best way to find customers who like the twist or extra touch you’ve put in.

Drawing on my friend’s

Are you ready to take action? Managing spending and saving are essential elements of any financial life. With some thought and planning you could grow another essential element — your income — while doing something about which you are passionate.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs.

To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ PracticalMoney This article is intended to provide general information and should not be considered health, legal, tax or financial advice.

It’s always a good idea to consult a legal, tax or financial advisor for specific information on how certain laws apply to you and about your individual financial situation.

TanyaFree.com/ Urban Views Weekly Poll There has been an apparent unwillingness of those in politics and in the media to label the Congressional Republican Baseball Team shooter as a terrorist.

What’s Your Take? Do you consider the shooting an act of domestic terrorism?

Check out the story and respond to this week’s poll at TanyaFree.com and the Urban Views Weekly FACEBOOK Page. Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show Wednesdays @ 2pm on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com. You can now watch us LIVE at TanyaFree.com and ustream.tv

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

5

School’s Out!

Richmond Public School Teachers As the school year comes to an end, students and teachers alike anticipate the start of the best time of year: summer break.

It’s truly a time where the year’s accomplishments are celebrated, mainly by mentally checking out until fall begins and a new year commences. But what about those Ryan James, Richmond weeks in-between Public Schools Teacher of the final school bell the Year, 2016 (top), Ryan and the sound of James with students on a the first morning trip to Washington, DC. announcements of the new year? So often, students check out, doing nothing to keep their minds fresh in preparation for the next step in their academic career. The truth is, though, that in order to keep our students’ minds sharp throughout the summer, both parents and students share a responsibility to keep their minds engaged and create productive habits.

Ryan James and VanNeisha Johnson, teachers at Richmond’s Lucille Brown Middle School, stress the importance of making summer break one of productivity. For them, it’s not about unplugging and disconnecting from everything school-related, but rather exploring their passions, engaging their mind, and developing life skills. And they fully understand the role of the 6

parent or guardian in the student’s lives, encouraging all parties to work together as they prepare for the new milestone that begins come fall. So, how can students enjoy their summer break while also equipping themselves with tools to succeed?

First, read, read, read! “Even if it’s not your favorite pastime, you can make reading more enjoyable by finding books that pique your interests,” suggests Johnson.

Many students claim to “hate reading” because it’s usually mandatory, and the topics aren’t as engaging. But try taking the time to explore topics that interest you, whether it’s science-fiction or your favorite public figure’s autobiography. Enjoy the freedom that comes with getting lost in a book, and you’ll see how far your imagination is stretched and how sharp your mind is when the new school year starts.

“Read something motivational,” encourages James. “There are so many books out there that speak to your personal interests and can even help you map out the right career path for you. I tell my students all the time to start new hobbies, but I challenge myself and all adults to do the same, and that hobby for me is reading.”

VanNeisha Johnson with Mayor Stoney

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

In that same vein of hobbies, Johnson

“...in order to keep our throughout the summer, b share a responsibility to ke encourages students to try the free classes offered at local libraries and recreation centers.

What you’ll find are sewing, dance, yoga, and jewelry classes, just to name a few.

You name it, you can guarantee there’s a center that offers it, and you’ll not only end your summer with a new set of skills, but the friendships you’ll make are priceless.

In addition to reading and picking up new hobbies, James stresses the importance of using this free time

! Now What?

s’ Guide to a Productive Summer

By Janna M. Hall

idea of what the process entails.

Find a mentor who will help you through it; seek out someone who can be a positive force who’ll guide you as you make major life decisions.”

r students’ minds sharp both parents and students eep their minds engaged...” to map out your future. Grade school is the foundation, sure, but there are so many other milestones we all aspire to reach that require the proper guidance.

“Find a mentor,” he advises.

“Especially when it comes to researching careers and/or college options. Many of my students will be first-generation college students, and although they say they want to go to college, they have almost no

Whether you’re heading straight to college or entering into the workforce, use the summer months to set yourself up for the future you want. If your plan is a community college or four-year institution, focus on your GPA. The grades and study habits you create in high school will undoubtedly help or hurt you as you move on to the next phase of your education. As dreadful as it sounds, consider the possibility of attending summer school. VanNeisha Johnson enthusiastically encourages students to enroll if they’re looking to get ahead.

“By taking summer school courses, you’re able to get ahead as you prepare for the year to come,” she says. “Not only that, but you’ll have the chance to improve your GPA, which is especially important if college is in your near future.

Turn your weaknesses into strengths! And look on the bright side: summer

school is only one month long; in that time, you’ll advance, improve, and set yourself up to be in a better position for the upcoming year.”

For those entering into the workforce, get a head-start on your professional career by getting—or creating—a summer job. Not only will you earn extra money to keep in your pockets, but you’ll also develop real life skills that will set you up for a promising future.

Skills like professionalism, social interactions, respect, and responsibility aren’t inherent.

They’re taught, and those skills get stronger and become second-nature with practice. A summer job allows you to take inventory of which interests you have and help you hone your abilities.

Johnson suggests taking advantage of the offers available through Richmond City. The city offers summer jobs to youth through the Mayor’s Youth Academy, where you’re able to work as a camp counselor. Other programs, such as Church Hill Activities & Tutoring (CHAT) also hire young adults.

This also teaches financial independence and money management, skills we often learn far too late in life. If you don’t have a job, Johnson suggests creating one yourself.

“If you’re too young to be hired by a company, create a job!”

Johnson exclaims. “Babysitting, lawn care, housework…there are so many options for those looking to Continues to Page 11 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

7

Scholar of the Week

By Janeal Downs

As a little girl, Evan Luck heard stories about her greatgrandmother who advocated for the importance of education.

Her great-grandmother’s dedication encouraged Evan to give back and ultimately influenced her to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Recently, Evan decided to major specifically in nursing. “That’s what I enjoy most. Nurturing people and carrying for them,” Evan said. In middle and high school, Evan always participated in science related programs and was accepted into two health science initiatives. Now, as college approaches, she is even closer to working in the field.

Scholar0

of Richmond Community High School GPA: 3.84 College of Interest: Hampton University Major Community Service: Autism Society, Children’s Museum of Richmond, the Virginia Homes, etc.

Strong Interests: Nursing and pediatrics Favorite Activities: Volunteering, cheerleading, reading and dancing

Business

After Hours

WEDNESDAY

Perfect Pitch June 28, 2017 Networking Session 8

This fall, Evan will attend Hampton University to pursue her nursing degree. Not only did the school’s nursing program attract her to the university, but also its welcoming atmosphere and friendly environment. One lesson from high school that she will take to college is “to always do your best and not to procrastinate.”

Evan plans to always do her best and stay focused. She thanked her teachers and principal for preparing her for college through a variety of lessons. “Continuing my education will only lead me into better things,” Evan stated in an essay. “This experience will help shape me into a better person and expand my social skills.” ™

With organizations like the Children’s Museum, the Virginia Homes and the Autism Society, she has been able to give back to others as a volunteer. “I really enjoy helping people and I think that’s one of my talents,” Evan ek said. “It just makes me feel better of the We Along with her educators, Evan to know that I’m able to help credits her grandmother as one of people that may not be able to her biggest motivators. “Since day receive help at home and it just one, she’s always pushed education makes me feel better about what on me and told me that it was very I’m doing.” While volunteering is her favorite thing to do outside important, ” Evan said.

“I really thank her for that. She always tells of school, Evan also enjoys cheerleading, reading and dancing. me to follow my goals and that I can do it.”

Other places she has volunteered with include Hands on Greater With her grandmother and family’s constant support, Evan plans Richmond, Girls for Change and Higher Achievement. With to also advocate for the importance of continuing education. “As many of these programs, Evan has been able to work with an independent thinker and a problem solver, I am certain I will children, something she loves to do. Because of her passion for follow through with my plans and achieve all my goals,” Evan working with children, Evan plans to become a neonatal nurse stated. practitioner or become a nurse with a pediatric focus. She is also

Evan Luck

6:00pm-8:30pm

a member of Delta Gems, Future Business Leaders of America, Sisters with an Intuition and the Key Club. With all of her extracurricular work, Evan worked to maintain a 3.84 GPA.

Building the perfect pitch

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce

Southern Kitchen

1726 East Main Street | Richmond, VA 23223 Free for Members | Non-Members $10.00 RSVP online at www.CVAACC.org Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce Email: Info@CVAACC.org • Phone: 804-823-7745 Join the chamber by going online to www.CVAACC.org www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

SAVOR

Family Features Courtesy Smithfield

Get Grilling Like a Pitmaster Summertime meals are all about the grill.

This year, give your grill and your family a break from hamburgers and hot dogs, and heat things up with the flavor and versatility of fresh pork.

From tender Sweet Sriracha Pork Skewers to Memphis-Style Dry Baby Back Ribs, the possibilities are endless. Make your cookout the best on the block with these tips and recipes from world champion pitmasters Tuffy Stone and Darren Warth: Start with a fresh and high-quality meat like fresh pork, which is available in a variety of cuts and seasonings perfect for any cookout occasion.

Don’t lift the lid of your grill unless you are checking for doneness or turning the food to avoid letting the heat escape or interrupt the cooking process.

Check for proper doneness with a meat thermometer and use tongs to turn the meat instead of a fork. Cutting into the meat can cause flavorful juices to escape.

If you’re short on time, try a pre-seasoned option of marinated fresh pork, so that the prep work is already done for you.

Find more great grilling tips, videos and recipes at www.SmithfieldGetGrilling.com.

Memphis-Style Dry Baby Back Ribs

Sweet Sriracha Pork Skewers

Recipe courtesy of Pitmaster Tuffy Stone Prep time: 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes stand time Cook time: 4-6 hours Servings: 2-4

Dry Rub: 1/4

cup brown sugar

1/4

cup kosher salt

2

teaspoons chili powder

1 1/2

teaspoons dry mustard

1

teaspoon black pepper

Recipe courtesy of Pitmaster Darren Warth Prep time: 15 minutes, plus marinade time Cook time: 15-20 minutes Servings: 4

1

teaspoon celery salt

1

fresh pork tenderloin

1

tablespoon soy sauce

2

slabs fresh pork back ribs, membrane removed

1/2

cup agave nectar

1

tablespoon rice vinegar

1/4

cup prepared yellow mustard

2

tablespoons Sriracha sauce

pint fresh pineapple chunks

apple juice or water, in spray bottle

1

teaspoon minced garlic

wood skewers, soaked in water

barbecue sauce (optional)

To make dry rub: In small bowl about 30 minutes before grilling, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, chili powder, dry mustard, black pepper and celery salt; mix well.

Trim skin off pork tenderloin and cut into 1-inch cubes.

To make marinade: In bowl, combine agave, Sriracha sauce, garlic, soy sauce and rice vinegar, and whisk thoroughly.

Spread both sides of ribs with yellow mustard and sprinkle dry rub on top. Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Heat charcoal or gas grill to 250 degrees F for indirect cooking.

Pour marinade into re-sealable bag and add cubed pork tenderloin. Marinate for up to 24 hours in refrigerator. Place tenderloin and pineapple chunks on skewers, alternating so pineapple is tight against tenderloin.

Place ribs, meaty side up, over drip pan and cook 4-6 hours until tender. Spritz ribs occasionally with water or apple juice using spray bottle.

Heat charcoal or gas grill to medium heat. Grill skewers, turning every 5 minutes, until all sides are grilled. Cook until tenderloin chunks have reached internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

If using charcoal grill, add about 12 coals approximately every 45 minutes to maintain heat. Let ribs stand 10-15 minutes before serving. If desired, serve with barbecue sauce. www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

9

How to Guide

Family Features

How to Choose a Foundation Repair Company The foundation is probably the most important part of your home. It anchors your house. Without a strong or solid foundation you don’t have a home.

When your foundation needs repair, it is essential that you choose an experienced, high-quality contractor.

The structure of your foundation and the type of work required will determine which contractor is best for you.

Another thing to consider is whether your home has a basement. If your basement is finished, you may need additional services after the job is completed. You may require a contractor to help with floor laying, carpentry and finishing. If the basement is rough or unfinished, then the level of work will be substantially less.

Your foundation may consist of cement blocks or granite slabs depending on the location and time your home was built. More modern foundations consist of poured concrete slab.

In addition, you will need to know if the problem is related to cracking or leaking, as these problems require different repair work. Some foundation repair companies specialize in fixing leaky foundations. They typically will install pumps and drains. Other companies fix architectural aspects of the damage. They perform repairs by pouring concrete, replacing blocks and installing jacks.

Choose a company that will help you with your foundational needs. If your foundation has several issues, then select a company that will provide various services.

10

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

Your first step is to contact contractors to inspect the damage and give you a written estimate. You should receive estimates from at least three different companies in order to compare prices. During these meetings, make sure the contractor understands the required repairs and the time frame it will take to complete the work.

Also, be cautious about using contractors who give you estimates that are far lower than the rest. The low cost may be due to poor quality of materials or lack of experience by the contractor. Ask the contractor about the types of

materials he will be using and whether those materials are long-lasting.

If you know anyone in your social network who has had foundation work done, ask them about contractors. Were they happy with the service? Is the work holding up?

Would they use the contractor again? Referrals will help you determine which contractors are best. If your friends give rave reviews to a company, then look closely at their services.

Before any work starts, the contractor should provide you with a current insurance certification. You need to verify that the contractor is covered for any accidents involving workers or damage caused to your home. Otherwise, you may be liable. If the contractor cannot provide you with this certification, check with their insurance company to find out what they cover. If the contractor is uninsured, begin searching again. Professional contractors are always covered by insurance.

While it takes time and effort to research contractors, it will save you time and money in the long run. You will feel comfortable with the knowledge that your foundation is in good shape, and the rest of your home or office will be stronger.

www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

FUNdraising from page 2

of boys and young men of color at the center of your giving. Look for those organizations that prepare boys and young men of color for leadership, college, careers, fatherhood, and the opportunity to live out their dreams.

4. Look at the Ujima Legacy Fund as an example of what you and those close to you can create. This is a group of 40 men who pool their giving to support nonprofits that have a positive impact on underserved youth and young adults in central Virginia. Members meet to discuss grant applications and collectively vote on the final grant recipients. This could be you. Talk to your friends, contact

your Community Foundation and get something started.

This is a time to get past the ugly ties, socks and outdated shirts that are too often offered to fathers. Instead, think about putting in place a program that you can honor your father and help the community in an ongoing way.

Copyright 2017 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of four books on fundraising available on Amazon. com. For help growing your fundraising visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

School’s Out from page 7

make money over the summer. Instead of spending your time on social media for free, look into creating and managing pages for local small businesses. Use the skills you already have to pay yourself.”

James, though he sees the benefits Johnson lists above, believes that a summer job helps keeps our youth honest, off the streets, and out of trouble.

“Find a part-time job,” he advises. “Chick Fil A, for example, hires at 14. With a part-time job, you’re not only getting set up for adulthood with the added level of responsibility, but it keeps you out the streets.”

Unfortunately, a common problem we’re seeing in our communities is the amount of youth who engage with the wrong crowds and causing themselves and others irreparable damage. We can all work together to help our youth see the options available so that they’re using their summer breaks to be constructive.

“Summer break is 10 to 12 weeks, but life is long,” explains James. “Be aware and cautious of the decisions you make. Too many people live for the moment without www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

thinking about how their actions have a reaction and/or consequence. Summer’s nice, but before you know it, you’re back in school. Do you really want the decisions you make in the summer to have negative impacts on your future?”

This is where the mentors, positive friendships, and a strong grasp on future aspirations lie. It’s that foundation that keeps our youth grounded and on the right path.

Lastly, Johnson encourages students to use the summer break to make what she calls “epic memories.” Create a bucket list, and do things you’ll be proud of when reflecting back on the past 10 weeks.

“Use the first week of summer to relax and relish in the success of the school year, but also compile a list of things you want to complete before summer’s over” she says.

“Volunteer, camp out in your yard, try new recipes, perform Random Acts of Kindness, attend a concert—the possibilities are endless! Whatever you do, do something worth remembering. When you do summer right, the memories—and the effects—will be wonderful and long-lasting.

Classifieds

PUBLIC NOTICE The Tri-Cities Area Metropolitan Planning FY 2018 Unified Transportation Planning Work Program is ready for review; written comments on the Transportation Improvement Program should be addressed to Crater Planning District Commission, P.O. Box 1808, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 or by email at dhyder@ craterpdc.org and should be received within the review period ending June 25, 2017.

PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 134 and 135; 49 U.S.C 5303 and 5304, the Tri-Cities Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) hereby provides area citizens an opportunity to review and comment on the Transportation Improvement Program.

This transportation plan has been developed by local and State agencies represented on the Tri-Cities Area MPO. A copy of this draft document has been made available for public viewing during regular visiting hours at public libraries in the Tri-Cities Area during a 30 day public review period beginning May 28, 2017 and ending June 25, 2017.

One public meeting will be scheduled to receive comments on this draft plan on June 22, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m (During the MPO Policy Committee Meeting) at the Petersburg Multi-Modal Station located 100 W. Washington Street in

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

Petersburg, VA. Persons in need of special accommodations to participate in these public meetings are requested to forward this information either by contacting the Crater Planning District Commission at 804-861-1666 or by email using the address listed below one week prior to the meeting date.

Persons with a hearing impairment may contact the Virginia Relay Center at 1-800-828-1120 to forward information to the Crater Planning District Commission and Tri-Cities Area MPO. A copy of this draft plan and other information related to the Tri-Cities Area MPO has been made available in electronic format located http:// craterpdc.org/transportation/mpo. htm The Crater Planning District Commission and the Tri-Cities Area MPO assure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, handicap, sex, age or income status, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent nondiscrimination laws, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of , or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. Written comments on Transportation Improvement Program should be addressed Crater Planning District Commission, P.O. Box 1808, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 and or sent email dhyder@craterpdc.org and received within the review period ending June 25, 2017.

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Health News from page 3

medical care The good news is that you can start taking better care of your health today.

How can you take charge of your health?

See a doctor for regular checkups even if you feel fine. This is important because some diseases don’t have symptoms at first.

Plus, seeing a doctor will give you a chance to learn more about your health.

You can also take care of your health by:

• Making sure you are up to date on important shots

Sell it fast and easy with a • Watching out for signs of health problems like diabetes low-cost or depression classified • Eating healthy and getting activead.

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• Getting screening tests that are right for you

Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

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YOUR CELEBRATION USE YOUR SCHOOL COLORS

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Urban Views Weekly | June 21, 2017

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