2019 January/February "Men's" Issue by Pride Magazine Online

January-February 2019

The Men’s Issue

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

Who Are the City’s New Black Leaders?

Racism’s Effects on Health Know the facts

The Yolk’s Secret Ingredient Chef Talks Food and Humble Beginnings

CIAA Tournament

Calendar and special section

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Available for fixed-rate purchase loans with terms of 25 or 30 years and on primary residences only. Certain property types are ineligible. Borrower(s) must not have an individual or joint ownership interest in any other residential property at time of closing. Maximum purchase loan-to-value is 97% and maximum combined purchase loan-to-value is 103%. For loan-to-values > 95%, any secondary financing must be from an approved Community Second Program; ask for details. Homebuyer education may be required. Restrictions apply regarding co-borrowers. Maximum income and loan amount limits may apply. 2 Home Possible mortgage is available in 37 select markets, including Albuquerque, NM; Anaheim, CA; Baltimore, MD; Boston, MA; Charleston, SC; Charlotte, NC/SC; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Denver, CO; Detroit, MI; Durham, NC; Elgin, IL; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Jacksonville, FL; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; Miami, FL; Minneapolis, MN; Nassau, NY; New York City, NY/NJ; Newark, NJ; Oakland, CA; Orlando, FL; Oxnard, CA; Philadelphia, PA; Phoenix, AZ; Richmond, VA; San Antonio, TX; San Francisco, CA; San Jose, CA; Seattle, WA; St. Louis, MO/IL; Tampa, FL; Virginia Beach, VA; Waco, TX; Washington DC/VA/MD; West Palm Beach, FL. 3 Qualified borrowers must meet eligibility requirements, including, but not limited to, being owner-occupants, meeting certain qualifying income limitations, and purchasing a home within a certain geographical area. The America’s Home Grant Program is a lender credit and not eligible to be used for down payment, escrowed taxes or homeowner’s insurance. No cash back to borrower. The maximum borrower/co-borrower annual qualifying income limit is 80% of Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) Area Median Income and subject to change without notice. The home loan must fund with Bank of America. Bank of America may change or discontinue the America’s Home Grant Program or any portion of it without notice. Not available with all loan products, please ask for details. Freddie Mac, Home Possible and CreditSmart are registered trademarks of Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC), known as Freddie Mac. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Affordable Loan Solution, Connect to Own, Life/Better Connected, Bank of America and the Bank of America logo are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2018 Bank of America Corporation AD-09-18-0353 | ARH98LLK | 10/2018 1

A PLACEâ&#x20AC;Ś filled with light where each and every heartbeat begins where connections are made bringing health, hope and healing

FOR ALL

Carolinas HealthCare System is

Our Secret to

Keeping Black Men Healthy MIND, BODY, SPIRIT & RESOURCES Our VHB men raise the standard for healthy living in Mecklenburg County. They are leading by example through fitness, awareness and key lifestyle changes.

Men’s CPR

Before

Working Out at Freedom Park

Family Field Day

Health Screenings

Mitch Teaches Chair Aerobics

After VHB Kick Oﬀ

Arthur Jones Lost Over 200 lbs

Chair Aerobics

Saturday Morning Walks

L I F E E X P E C TA N C Y I N M E C K L E N B U R G C O U N T Y W h i t e s – 8 2 . 3 Ye a r s B l a c k s – 76 . 7 Ye a r s Black men have shor ter lives and die sooner than White men

B l a c k Me n – 7 0 . 7 Ye a r s

VHB Pastors

H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E Black Men Die Early and Frequently Struggle Against Access to Healthcare Due to No Insurance.

J O I N O U R FA I T H - B A S E D M OV E M E N T T O B E H E A LT H Y ! V H B C O M P E T I T I O N S E A S O N 7 B E G I N S S AT U R DAY, JA N . 19 , 2 019 @ M L K PA R A D E

For questions contact Cheryl S. Emanuel, Mecklenburg County Public Health, at Cheryl.Emanuel@mecklenburgcountync.gov or 980 314 9027

W W W. V I L L A G E H B . O R G

W W W. FAC E B O O K . C O M / V I L L A G E H E A R T B E AT /

@VILL AGEHB

PRIDE AWARDS 2019 Join the Charlotte community as we focus on a poignant issue impacting the workplace and beyond. Keynote speaker Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. will deliver a compelling address on bias, privilege and leadership. Weʼll honor our outstanding nonproﬁt winner with a monetary donation, under written by Wells Fargo and present the prestigious Pride Award to its founder.

KEYNOTE: Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW!

THURSDAY, JANUARY 24 The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte

You may log on to PrideMagazineonline.com to purchase tables or tickets or call 704-375-9553 to reserve seating.

Elisa Chinn-Gary

2019 NONPROFIT FINALISTS AND FOUNDERS

Doors Open at 11:15 am • Lunch and Program at 12:00 pm • Attire is Business Casual

Elisa C Judge o North C 2014.

Reggie Singleton The Male’s Place

Educat (magna 1999; M

John Martin Elisa Chinn-Gary YBLAExperience:Race Matters forNorth Carolina G Attorney Advocate: Juvenile Justice Juvenile Defender: Council for Children’s Rights (fo

Administrator of the Mecklenburg Family Court 200 of Law 2010-2015.

PRESENTED BY:

SUPPORTED BY:

Since taking office in December 2014, the Honorabl improving workplace culture across divisions; qualit active staff promotion, cross training and salary ince racial/implicit bias analysis for more equitable outco with local charities.

Co-Chair of Race Matters for Juvenile Justice, the H institutional organizer and implicit bias lecturer, who and just systems of governance. Recipient of variou the 2014 Julius L. Chambers Diversity Champion by as a 2015 NAACP History Maker, recipient of the M and the 2017 Charlotte Mecklenburg NAACP Distin

Extraordinary “Wake Up Room” Experience! Special Performance by Charlotte Ballet! #PRIDEWAKEUPCLT2019

January – February 2019

Departments 10 From the Publisher 12 Notable Names 13 By Faith 14 The Mindful Parent 15 Family Notes 16 Book Review

39 Scene and Seen 46 Events Calendar

Health 42 W hat’s Killing

Our Kids Adolescent deaths are back on the rise

43 R acism and Health

The conversation continues

Business 44 FYI

Log on to pridemagazineonline.com for more features including our weekly calendar of events.

News & Notes

45 N ovant

Health & M&F Bank Partner to help small businesses

PRIDE

January-February 2019

| JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 | THE MEN’S ISSUE

The Men’s Issue

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

Features 17 M eet

the Male New Leaders of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Spencer Merriweather, Taiwo Jaiyeoba, Garry McFadden, Reginald Johnson, John Lewis

20 A

League of Their Own Minority males at majority white universities

24 The

Yolk’s Secret Ingredient Meet Greg Collier

Who Are the City’s New Black Leaders?

29 C laflin

President Henry Tisdale Brings visionary leadership and focus on academic excellence

33 2019

Pride Awards Luncheon Honoring an outstanding nonprofit

www.PRIDEmagazineonline.com

Racism’s Effects on Health Know the facts

The Yolk’s Secret Ingredient Chef Talks Food and Humble Beginnings

CIAA Tournament

Calendar and special section

35 Face

of Manufacturing Gaston College Program aims to make changes

On the Cover

37 Photographer

New Black Male Leaders of CharlotteMecklenburg (L) to (R) Reginald T. Johnson, Garry McFadden, John M. Lewis, Jr, Spencer B. Merriweather, III, and Taiwo Jaiyeoba.

41 New

Alvin Jacobs Doesn’t shoot for ‘likes,’ he shoots for change Year, Better You Tips for seniors January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

PROUD TO GIVE BUSINESSES A LIFT CATS is proud to provide opportunities for businesses to create local jobs through the advancement of transit projects. CATS also seeks to create an environment that gives small and socially or economically challenged local businesses the opportunity to compete for publicly funded contracts by participating in the Small Business Opportunity (SBO) and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Programs. To date, 11 DBE firms have been awarded contracts of over $13 million to help build the CityLYNX Gold Line Streetcar. As the major provider of public transportation to Charlotte and the surrounding region, CATS relies on the communities we serve to build and operate the service every day. By working together on these new opportunities, we can all keep our communities moving in the right direction. For more information, visit ridetransit.org.

CATS. YOUR RIDE IS HERE.

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

CEO/Publisher Dee Dixon

Editor-in-Chief

Lashawnda Becoats

Copy Editor Polly Paddock

Lead Writer Angela Lindsay

Design & Production SPARK Publications www.SPARKpublications.com

Creative Director Larry Preslar

Junior Art Director Genna Hardgrove

Distribution Watch Dog Entertainment®

Account Executive Nikelle Fesperman

Public Relations Nepherterra Estrada

Subscribe to Pride

$13.25. Please subscribe online at www.pridemagazineonline.com, mail to P.O. Box 30113, Charlotte, NC 28230 or call 704- 375-9553

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Please send an e-mail to info@pridemagazine.net fax to 704-375-9550 or mail to Pride Magazine 402 W. Trade St., Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28202 www.pridemagazineonline.com

Copyright© 2019 Pride Magazine All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited. Pride Magazine reserves the right to deny any advertisement, listing or feature that does not meet Pride Magazine standards or that is outside the scope or mission of our magazine. Pride Magazine assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

FromTheCEO

Let’s Jump Right in With Two Very Important Items to Kick Off the New Year

By Dee Dixon

Kick off the New Year.

oremost, Pride Awards 2019. Many thanks to our sponsors: Atrium Health, Bank of America, Food Lion, Premier, V101.9, Wells Fargo and WCNC. We’ll be at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel on Thursday, January 24, for a luncheon, themed “Is This America?” focusing on unconscious bias, this year’s program should prove to be quite extraordinary. We are using our platform to “wake up Charlotte” regarding the root cause of the opportunity gap existing in our city for people of color. Since we have learned that Charlotte is segregated by wealth, poverty, race and ethnicity from the Opportunity Task Force findings, we hope to begin to understand the cause of our systemic economic mobility issues, with implicit bias being front and center. If you are planning to attend the luncheon, come with an open mind. The event will be much more than eating a meal — it will be an experience. • Test your bias “wokeness” in our networking Wake-Up Room at 11:15 a.m. • View (with the option to purchase) the amazing works of local artist John Robert “Trey” Miles III. • Brace yourself for the program to begin at noon. • Discover which local nonprofit was chosen to receive $12,500. • Enjoy a special performance by Charlotte Ballet. • Listen to keynote Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr., and ignite your mind. • Take in a few surprises in between. Seating is limited. Reserve your space now at www.prideawards.net.

ANNOUNCING THE “E-EDITION” OF PRIDE MAGAZINE.

Ladies and gentlemen, we are happy to inform you that beginning with the current January, 2019 issue, we will offer a full digital edition of Pride Magazine to the Charlotte community. NOTE: This is in ADDITION to our customary print distribution. WE WILL CONTINUE TO PRINT AND DISTRIBUTE HARD COPIES OF THE MAGAZINE as usual, but will complement this with a digital distribution. As Charlotte grows by leaps and bounds, we want to make the magazine available to as many people as possible. Our solution is simple. We’ll begin building a Pride subscription list, from which we will email a full digital copy each time the magazine is published. (Remember, we will continue the print version for those of you who are like me and want to feel the paper as you read and turn the pages.) IN ORDER TO BEGIN RECEIVING THE FREE DIGITAL “ E-EDITION” OF PRIDE MAGAZINE, EMAIL YOUR REQUEST TO INFO@PRIDEMAGZINE.NET. Call Tye Feimster at 704-375-9553 with any questions. Let your friends know about this new, exciting offer. #ESUBSCRIBETOPRIDE. In closing, we are sincerely grateful for ALL of the support from our advertisers, sponsors and the community, who have made it possible for us to continue to have a voice in 2018. Let’s keep pressing on. Thank you, and have a blessed New Year.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

N O C R UNDE N O I T STRUC

N O C R E D N U N O I T C S T RU N O I T C U R T S N O C R UNDE DEC 01 N O I T C U R T S N O C R AUG 18 UNDE C ollag

in t M M e h T m o e fr

THROUGH

o r f e g a l C ol

useu

m u e s u M t n i M e h mT MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN

Exhibition organized by The Mint Museum. Romare Bearden. Guitar Magic, 1986, collage and watercolor on board. Gift of Bank of America. 2002.68.6. Â© 2018 Romare Bearden Foundation / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society

NotableNames By Ryan Kouame

MARJILETTE BROWN

WILLIAM BLOUNT

DONALD MICHAEL, JR.

LORI GEORGE BILLINGSLEY

Marjilette Brown was named the new director of certification of the CarolinasVirginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC). The CarolinasVirginia MSDC is a nonprofit corporation that enhances business opportunities for minority-owned businesses, by developing mutually beneficial networking opportunities with corporate members. The council oversees the certification process for minority businesses, and supports corporate members through purchasing, supplier development and supply chain management throughout the Carolinas and Virginia. “Through certification with CVMSDC, minority business enterprises have access to corporate supplier diversity champions, buyers and procurement professionals through our events and corporate services introductions,” Brown says. “Serving as director of certification allows me to step into a role of leadership that gives me the platform to initiate, develop and implement processes that add value to the certification process.” P

Blackboard, Inc. awarded the first Diversity and Inclusion Program scholarship to the information technology services senior program director at Central Piedmont Community College, Donald Michael, Jr. The Diversity and Inclusion scholarship program addresses the critical need for diversity in perspectives, opinions and professional development in the workplace. Michael’s passion for and dedication towards improving digital inclusion in the Charlotte area earned him the scholarship to attend the DevCon + BbWorld conference in Orlando. “Blackboard can play a major role in providing a direct digital tunnel to connect a community of learners living in defined areas known as ‘food deserts’,” says Michael. “With the exposure from attending BbWorld, my dream of connecting more people to public accommodations such as the internet has now become a greater possibility. I am feeling humble but confident that what I will learn from this worldwide event can provide solutions to problems caused by the lack of digital literacy training.” P

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

The Corporation for National and Community Service named William Blount, founder and creative director of the Academy of the Gifted, as recipient of an the honorary doctorate in humanitarianism. The honorary doctorate is awarded to a student in the Global International Online School and Awards program who has completed at least 500 hours of community service. Blount founded the Academy of the Gifted as a music and arts enrichment program, focused on helping children discover themselves though self-expression in the arts. The nonprofit provides hands-on instruction in drums, guitar, piano, theater, digital arts, music production, visual arts and cosmetology. Blount received a Lifetime Achievement award from former President Barack Obama in 2016. He also received a Grammy and Soul Train award through working with famous artists such as Tyler Perry, Monica, Outkast, Goodie Mob and R. Kelly. P

Lori George Billingsley was named the new chief diversity and inclusion officer at The Coca-Cola Company. Billingsley previously served as the vice president of community and stakeholder relations for CocaCola North America, where she led community engagement, stakeholder relations, issues management, employee volunteerism, community board placements, disaster relief and CCNA’s 5by20 women’s initiative. Her new role encompasses leading the company’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, as well as the Diversity, Inclusion and Workplace Fairness teams for North America. Before joining The Coca-Cola Co., Billingsley served as vice president at Porter Novelli, a public relations firm in Washington, D.C. and started her own consultancy, LG Communications. She also serves on the board of directors of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Inc., Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, ColorComm, NAACP, Arete Executive Women of Influence and is an ordained minister, as well. Billingsley holds a BS in public relations from Howard University and a master’s in public communications from American University. P

ByFaith

A Perfect Leader By Rev. Dr. Dwayne Bond

ur nation is in a leadership crisis, but that’s old news. Unfortunately, this crisis is most evident in the White House. Shamefully, we are witnessing political leaders poorly model the meaning of true leadership. At the same time, there seems to be minimal accountability for dishonesty, bigotry, racial bias, slander, accusatory language, narcissistic behaviors and an unbridled tongue. This is exposing our vulnerability as a nation and our desperate need for true servant leaders who are humble, kind, thoughtful and gracious. But is it too late? Has irreversible damage already taken place? Can something be done to prevent this generation from becoming jaded and disinterested in aspiring to lead? Although our president is riddled with flaws and deficits and has an undeniable track record of making poor choices as he engages with people and leads our nation, a resurgence of true leadership awaits. Poor leadership doesn’t have to set the trajectory for the development of future leaders. We can learn from the mistakes of others. Thankfully, there exists an opportunity for men to develop, mature and grow into dependable and honorable leaders. Now is our opportunity to demonstrate the essence of true leadership to this generation. Our families need men who serve, sacrifice and lead their families. We need husbands who love their wives and children well, and fathers who train, nurture and spend adequate time with their kids. Our churches need men who aren’t self-serving celebrities, but instead men who walk with integrity, live the truth that they preach and serve their people with the hearts of a shepherd. However, people aren’t born leaders; they are equipped and trained in how to lead.

How do we equip this generation of men to lead? Organizations and businesses that have as their mission to teach men how to lead are wonderful and much needed. Big Brothers and other mentoring programs that give emphasis to training men to lead are invaluable. However, one who aspires to develop into a solid leader must peer into the scriptures and learn from Jesus Christ. He was a man’s man who is worthy to learn from and emulate. What can we learn from Jesus’ leadership? Jesus models responsible leadership, engaging leadership, loving leadership and selfless leadership. First, Jesus responsibly lived before those who needed his leadership. He was blameless. His motives were pure and benefited those who needed his leadership. Too many people want to lead others, but don’t desire to be held accountable to lead and live responsibly. It’s not enough to be called a leader. It’s necessary to lead responsibly. Secondly, Jesus lived among and engaged with common people of all ethnicities and social groups (John 1:14). He engaged the poor, weak, diseased, outcasts, murderers, harlots, proud, ethnically-ostracized and socially estranged (John 12:1-8). He wasn’t secluded in an ivory tower and compelled by popularity (Matthew 8:14-17). True leaders aren’t distant from those they are called to lead. Husbands shouldn’t lead their wives from a distance; they should engage their

wives. Fathers can’t lead their children from a distance. There must be deliberate time invested whereby the father interacts and respectfully appreciates his children’s lives. Thirdly, Jesus was a loving leader. His sole purpose and motivation for coming to the earth was his love for people. The centerpiece of his mission was fueled by love. It’s hard for men to lead if they don’t love the people that they are called to lead. If a man doesn’t love those that he leads, then his leadership becomes conditional. A man must lead with unconditional love. Lastly, Jesus was a selfless leader. He led by giving his all. Ultimately, he sacrificed his life, which was the clearest demonstration of selflessness. Today, many men want to lead for selfish reasons, rather than selfless reasons. Selfish leaders make everything about themselves. Selfless leaders make everything about those who they serve. We need men who do more giving than taking. Our families, communities, churches and nation need men who are big givers of their time, energy and resources for the good of others. In addition to reading books about leadership development and mentorship, consider studying the life of Jesus Christ. Consider following his example of leadership. Allow Jesus to reignite your interest in leadership development. Whether in a family, church, community, organization or the corporate world, Jesus is the only leader truly worthy of emulating. He was a perfect leader. May we find a renewed calling and passion to pursue his heart, life and word for this generation and generations to come. P The Rev. Dwayne Bond is the lead pastor of Wellspring Church.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

TheMindfulParent

By Shavonda Bean

Parents, Don’t Let Anxiety Rule Your Child

n places where children gather, it can be commonplace to hear phrases such as, “Be careful,” “Watch out!” or “Don’t do that or you’ll get hurt.” Parents have the innate desire to protect their children, but are they really in danger each time? There is no denying that today’s society and media provide numerous and repeated images and messages of fear, and unfortunately, in some communities, fear is a reality. Managing that fear and avoiding worsening fears and anxiety while parenting the child you love can be a task. Anxiety itself is a normal reaction to stress and can actually be beneficial or give us an extra boost of energy during a performance. Worrying about day-to-day stressors, grades or finances is not unusual and does not necessarily indicate a problem. When anxiety becomes excessive, is difficult to control, interferes with daily life and is

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

associated with anticipation of a threat, muscle tension, vigilance or avoidance of situations or places, it has possibly become a problem. Anxiety has many variations and is one of the most common mental illnesses in America, affecting approximately 40 million adults. Twenty-five percent of 13 to 18-year-olds and one in eight children will experience some diagnosable level of anxiety (adaa.org, nami.org). Most anxiety begins in childhood and can persist if left untreated. So what are the chances that being an anxious, overly cautious or overprotective parent could be associated with anxiety that goes awry? Parental stress and anxiety have been known to impact a child’s overall mental health and well-being. Can an overprotective parenting style lead to an overanxious child? Like many mental illnesses, there are few clear answers about the etiology of anxiety.

We do know that anxiety is associated with several factors, including genetics, biological factors that influence brain chemistry, an overactive auto-response system, trauma or significant changes and learned behavior. The learned behavior could involve a child who grows up in an unpredictable or dangerous environment in which risk is prevalent, and being alert and aware are important for safety. Understanding your child’s temperament is also important, since children who are more inhibited and concerned about negative evaluations from others are often more susceptible to anxiety. However, a child growing up in a family in which anxious and fearful behavior is taught can display anxiety. The child is likely paying attention and learning how to handle his or her own fears from parents. There actually are correlations between social anxiety and specific phobias/fears and the overprotective parenting approach. Anxiety has also been linked to parents who lack warmth and reassurance. So, while the cause of anxiety does not necessarily lie in the hands of the parent, I believe the parent can play a key role in providing an environment that minimizes fear and potential anxiety. It would be one that models healthy coping skills, encourages children to walk toward their fears to conquer them, avoids fearful messages such as, “be careful” and instead encourages children to “have fun,” or reminds them that they will be OK when minor incidents occur on the playground, allows children room to explore and make mistakes, minimizes stressors and provides opportunities for open and honest communication about feelings. Remember, anxiety is one of the most treatable conditions, yet only a small portion of people seek help, and many wait years before they do. If you notice your child struggling with fears or becoming increasingly anxious, help is available and the outlook can be bright again. P Shavonda Bean is a licensed psychological associate and owner of Essential Assessments & Behavioral Health. Visit Essentialhealthnc.com for more information.

FamilyNotes

On Dreams, Passion

Compiled by Kayla Becoats

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

National Children’s Dental Health Month February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Here are some helpful tips to get your children brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay (Courtesy of NationalToday.com).

1. Spread the word

The American Dental Association and Crest + Oral B provide a comprehensive list of ways to publicize National Children’s Dental Health Month. Parents might want to send a letter to the editor of their local newspaper or organize an event at their local elementary schools.

— Harriet Tubman, an American abolitionist and political activist also known as the Moses of her people,” was born into slavery. After her escape from a plantation in Maryland in 1849, she returned to rescue dozens of enslaved people using the Underground Railroad — a network of fellow abolitionists and safe houses. She is revered for her strength and fierce leadership as one of the most famous “conductors” along the Underground Railroad.

2. Work on arts and crafts projects with kids

The ADA website (ada.org) has lots of fun things to do regarding National Children’s Dental Health Month. You can download puzzles and coloring pages for the kids directly from the website.

3. Brush and floss together

Make brushing and flossing a regular part of daily activities with your children. After all, kids learn best when they have an adult to show them the right way.

Under the Sea The ocean is a mysterious place, full of life that has yet to be discovered. At the Sea Life Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, it is a part of its mission to showcase ocean life and educate visitors about the beautiful and rare creatures that inhabit our oceans. Every Tuesday, families can experience interactive exhibits featuring stingrays, tropical fish, giant pacific octopus and many other marine animals. In fact, there’s even have an exhibit where you can touch some of the animals. On Toddler Tuesdays, one child is free with the purchase of a $15 adult ticket. Additional tickets for children three -12 are $5 each. For more information, visit visitsealife.com

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Legacy In commemoration of what would have been Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 90th birthday, the Levine Museum of the New South holds its annual tradition of honoring his legacy. On January 21, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration will be held. It includes performances and activities that exemplify Dr. King’s vision of unity and equality among people of all races. To be a part of the remembrance, visit museumofthenewsouth.org. Ticket prices range from $6-$15, and admission is free for children under the age of five.

‘Three Little Birds’ The Children’s Theatre production of “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds” is proof of the timeless impact the late reggae superstar has had. Inspired by his music, this reggae-infused musical transports audiences to the island of Jamaica for an adventure full of laughs, thrills and even a little voodoo. The show is perfect for children ages six and older. Grab your family and join Ziggy and Nansi for an enchanting coming-of-age journey at the McColl Family Theater from February 8 to February 24. Tickets start at $15. For more information and show times, visit ctcharlotte.org

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

BookReview

By Angela Haigler

Start the New Year Off with Some History, Goal-Setting and Poetry Children’s Book:

“How Long til Black Future Day? Stories”

“Wild Beauty: New and Selected Poems”

By N.K. Jemisin

What better way to celebrate the literary life of Ntozake Shange than with her most recent poetry collection, “Wild Beauty: New and Selected Poems.” The poems provide a sampling of her previous work, along with new works, and includes a Spanish translation. Crafted in her usual style that incorporates raw emotion with an inner jazz beat, she continues her work as a truth-teller of the Black feminine condition. The result is perfect for introducing new readers to Shange, and for helping those familiar with her work feel at home. Best known for her groundbreaking choreo-poem, “for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is enuf,” Shange passed away on October 27, 2018 at the age of 70. During her lifetime, she made countless contributions to the arts as an award-winning poet, novelist and playwright.

Hachette Book Group In the speculative fiction genre, there’s few authors as prolific as Hugo Awardwining and New York Times bestselling author,N. K. Jemisin. “How long til Black Future Day?” is her first short story collection. Prepare yourself for fully imagined otherworlds whose melaninpoppin’ characters have survived the apocalypse and invite us to visit a while.

By Ntozake Shange Simon and Schuster, Inc.

“The End of White World Supremacy: Four Speeches” By Malcolm X

“New Kid”

Simon and Schuster, Inc.

By Jerry Craft

Malcolm X will go down in history as a revolutionary leader who instilled pride and courage in Black people in the sixties. He was known for his strong opinions that were often in opposition to the teachings of another civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. Though he was killed in 1965 on the stage of a Harlem theater, his words and his voice live on in this new collection of his major speeches, which includes “Black Man’s History,” “The Black Revolution” and “The Old Are you rea dy for change Negro and the New Negro.” in your life? Tired of livi ng up to

Harper Collins “New Kid” is a graphic novel about a seventh grade boy’s struggle to move in two worlds, one his more familiar apartment home in Washington Heights and the other the world of his new school in an upscale neighborhood. Kids will be drawn to both the images and the message, as Jordan makes the best of things at his new school, disappointed that his first choice, an art school, was denied him. Can he also maintain his neighborhood-inspired culture?

A YEAR

others expecta Forget what tions? other people think. You get to

AND SOME CHANGE

decide. In A Year and Some Chan ge: Revealing and Perspectiv Your Full Poten e, Reginald tial through Bean challenge additional mon Purpose s you to take ths to look at the next year yourself, explo and from life, and a few re what you and answer expe the question, ct from your on my comm self “What grea unity and fami t contribution ly?” He enco will I have life, community urages you , or social circle to pick one area to change and a series of resol of your explains how utions, pers to onal do it. Through anecdotes, and Bean will guid creative exer e your way to revealing cises, Reginald your full poten tial.

“A Year and Some Change: Revealing Your Full Potential through Purpose and Perspective” By Reginald Bean | SPARK Publications

“A Year and Some Chan ge is a great to maximize inspirational their potential roadmap for and to creat those seeking e change in their comm OHONME, unity.” cofounder,

– EMMANU EL “MANNY”

Central Interc commission er of ollegiate Athle tic Association the (CIAA

) “Reggie provi des an innov ative and resou your purpose rceful appr while creating oach to disco – MATTHEY the change vering “CHEWY” TORR within emer ging adults.” ES, Radio One on-air

About the Author

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

personality , entreprene ur & speak er

Growing up in Detroit, Reginald Bean down to the saw his peers expectatio (and himself ns of his neigh change his at times) living borhood and mind, his locat society. He ion, and his friends to discovered circle of create the how to life he want executive ed. Now an with the large st Coca-Cola company in bottling the country, Reginald share lessons and s the techniques he’s learned emerging with adults acros s the coun try.

reginaldbea n.com

REGINALD C. BEAN

Revealing Your Full Potentia Purpose an l through d Perspectiv e

CEO, and presid

ent of Sama “Reggie force ritan’s Feet s self-reflect ion, ownership one step, one , and action day, and mayb to make a differ to influence e one year at change. A Year ence and Some Chan a time in areas of our together these life ge does a mast principles to erful job of weav create an insig ing htful playb – JACQIE MCW ook.” ILLIAMS,

The New Year is the perfect time for introspection, goal-setting and internal challenges. That’s exactly what we get from Charlotte’s Reginald Bean in “A Year and Some Change: Revealing Your Full Potential through Purpose and Perspective.” Bean challenges readers to examine their self-expectations in this combination book/workbook. Bean encourages us to pick one area of our lives, community or social circle to change, and explains how to do it through a series of resolutions, personal anecdotes and creative exercises. Angela Haigler explores the literary world at www.angelicmusings.wordpress.com and on Twitter @angelicmusings

A YEAR AND SOM CHANGEE Best Better

RE24 GINA25 LD C. 26 BEAN27

Meet the City's New Black Leaders By Tonya Jameson

n the last two years, Charlotte has experienced a transition in government leadership. Several of the city’s key leaders are African American men. They will decide the future direction of the city, in everything from transportation to the overall safety of this community. These leaders shared their insights on everything from handling the stress of work to their goals for their departments.

Mecklenburg County District Attorney

Spencer B. Merriweather III District Attorney Spencer Merriweather, 40, became the first African American elected as district attorney of Mecklenburg County last November. Biggest challenge your department will face in 2019: Changing perceptions and building trust. There are communities in Mecklenburg County that don’t believe the justice system works for them. I want to connect with those communities, show them our values and work together to ensure we build a system that works for everyone. How has your office begun preparing for the Republican National Convention in 2020 (RNC 2020)? My office will work with law enforcement and community organizations to ensure that all people – whether they’re attending RNC events, protesting or going to work as usual uptown – are safe and treated fairly. What’s your go-to stress reliever? Cooking. I rarely make the same recipe twice, but I’ve got a great recipe for Jamaican Rundown Seafood Stew. What’s your favorite way to break a sweat? Swimming. It involves not thinking about anything outside the pool. If you do, you drown.

Podcast you recently finished? The podcast ‘Slow Burn,’ the story of how the Watergate conspiracy led to President Nixon’s downfall. I loved it because it reminded me how, if other levers of government work as they are supposed to, with time and pressure, ultimately no one is above the law. What’s your go-to music genre when you feel stressed? Definitely jazz. I’m not talking elevator music. I mean the greats like Charlie Parker, Louis Armstrong, Charles Mingus and Miles Davis.

What is your favorite era of Prince music? The era before ‘“Purple Rain’” and post-Warner Brothers era. There are a lot of comparisons here between Prince and early Miles Davis. At their best, both artfully mixed elements of hard soul and innovative chords without abandoning them in the spirit of experimentation, as both were prone to do at times in their career. And, yes, I’m a nerd.

Comfort food? When done right, gumbo.

What TV show or movie most realistically portrays the job of a DA? ‘Law & Order’ isn’t perfect, but they put out so many episodes. they can’t help but get it right every once in a while.

If you had time to binge-watch TV, what show would you watch? ‘West Wing’ and ‘A Different World.’

Merriweather and his wife, Lila, have a mischievous, but loveable dog named Luigi.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Director, Charlotte City Planning Design and Development Department

Taiwo Jaiyeoba

Taiwo Jaiyeoba, 50, will celebrate his oneyear anniversary as director of the Charlotte City Planning Design and Development department on January 16. Biggest challenge your office will face in 2019: The rollout of the expedited Land Development Permitting office; public kickoff of the Charlotte Future 2040 (our 20-year comprehensive plan); and adoption of the new Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Ordinance. How has your office begun preparing for RNC 2020? Making sure that the department’s community engagement activities do not conflict with major events leading up to and during the RNC 2020. The department will provide support to the City’s efforts to prepare for the convention. How do you anticipate the convention impacting the work of your office? Potential impacts include the unanticipated use of staff resources to support the event, as well as the potential for RNC activities to distract from our regular activities and ultimately impact project schedules and adoption processes. During a speech last year, you referenced Wakanda (from the movie ‘Black Panther’) as an example of intentional city planning. Can you explain that reference? What did the fictional Wakanda do correctly that we could model today? In the movie ‘“Black Panther,’” there were two different types of communities in the fictional country of Wakanda and its capital city, Birnin Zana. One was a community with modern, sophisticated urban development. It had high-rise buildings complete with water features, rail transit, access to modern medical facilities and community gathering places, where people of diverse backgrounds could hang out. The other community was one where houses had traditional looks of mud and thatched roof, with animals moving about freely in open fields. It was a city that embraced the new and modern while preserving the old and traditional, thus reducing the tension in their relationship. Wakanda also had a ‘why’ to it, and its inhabitants would do anything to protect that ‘why’…There must be a ‘why’ to us as a city. Why would people move to Charlotte and

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want to stay here? Our ‘“why”’ could be found in availability of jobs, investment in a robust transit network, accessibility to affordable housing for laborers and employees, the best medical facilities in the world, inclusivity and a network of accessible open spaces and plazas. Wakanda is the new urbanist’s best dream. What’s your go-to stress reliever? Being home, chilling with my wife or reading a good book. Current or last podcast or book you recently finished? I read my Bible daily, so it’s got to be that. It gives me insight and wisdom daily. Another book I recently read is ‘“An Effective Life”’ by Stephen Covey…I like it because it’s a short book (only 110 pages) and can be finished over a weekend! Seriously, though, I like it because it focuses on how to increase self-awareness, nurture relationships and see the benefits in our differences. What’s your comfort food? Fries. Lots of fries (don’t tell my doctor). If you had time to binge-watch TV, what show would you watch? ‘Law & Order – ‘Special Victims Unit’ (it used to be ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ or the original ‘“MacGyver”’). Jaiyeoba and his wife, Ronke, have seven daughters, ages nine to 24, and a Maltese.

Mecklenburg County Sherriff

Garry McFadden

Garry L McFadden, 58, became Mecklenburg County’s first African American sheriff when he was elected in November. Biggest challenge your office will face in 2019? The transition of my vision and my leadership style, while addressing the true needs of the community. What will your office do to prepare for RNC 2020? Educate the community, provide additional training for deputies and staff. How do you anticipate the convention impacting the work of your office? I anticipate long work hours and stressful situations. Since your election, you’ve traveled internationally and nationally, looking at best practices. What are

some programs or policies that you would like to implement here? • Discontinue solitary confinement for juveniles and certain rules for adult solitary confinement. • Create programs and policies that will allow incarcerated citizens to retain their dignity. • Create communications platforms designed to open the line of communication between the staff and incarcerated citizens. • Create policies for the incarcerated LGBTQ-I citizens. • Secure employment opportunities for returning citizens. • Create opportunities for incarcerated citizens and their school-age children to work on projects and school assignments together. What’s your go-to stress reliever? Shopping for suits and Happy Socks. What do you listen to while working out? I work out while listening to a little Limp Bizkit or Parliament Funkadelic. Book you recently finished? ‘Conflict without Causalities.’ Reading it allowed me the opportunity to assist others in understanding what it takes to deal with confrontational situations. If you had time to binge-watch TV, what show would you watch? ‘Law & Order;’ a close second being ‘Naked and Afraid.’ McFadden and his wife of 30 years have three adult children.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Fire Chief

Reginald T. Johnson

Reginald Johnson has been Charlotte’s fire chief for seven months after working for 25 years at Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia. Biggest challenge your office will face in 2019: Reviewing every aspect of the department and implementing positive change where required. How has your office begun preparing for RNC 2020? We will work with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and other partners. We will be busy in aspects of preparation, response and recovery, post RNC. Book you recently finished? ‘Building

High-Performance Local Governments’ has good methods to change culture and implement change. What’s your favorite thing to do to break a sweat? Stair machine. If you had time to binge-watch TV, what show would you watch? ‘Fear the Walking Dead.’ Johnson and his wife have a one-year-old and two-year old.

Chief Executive/Transit Director Charlotte Area Transit System

John M. Lewis, Jr.

John Lewis, 52, has been chief executive/ transit director Charlotte Area Transit System for the past three years. What has been the response to the implementation of Phase 2 of Envision My Ride? We began Phase 2 on October 1, 2018, with CATS’

schedule change. The first month’s ridership numbers were encouraging, because there was significant improvement. CATS will continue with the Envision My Ride initiative as we work to reverse the national trend of declining ridership. What’s the next phase and when will that be implemented? CATS will make significant changes to its North Mecklenburg express service that will benefit the community, because they will provide reliable travel time and frequent, direct service from Park and Rides to uptown utilizing the I-77 express lanes. Look for changes to the 48X-Huntersville Express, 53X-Northlake Express and 77X-North Mecklenburg Express, and the implementation of a new route – 63X-Northcross Express – once portions of the I-77 express lanes open. Ultimately, we want to increase frequency. We don’t want any rider to wait more than 30 minutes for a bus, rather than the current hour. CATS’ busiest routes currently operate every 15 minutes or more frequently. Biggest challenge your office will face in 2019? Developing a funding strategy that will enable us to add more bus frequency and build the remaining rail corridors in the 2030 Transit Corridor System Plan.

What has your office begun doing to prepare for RNC 2020? Coordinating with partners both nationally and locally, to ensure that we provide the highest level of mobility options with top-notch security. How do you anticipate the convention impacting the work of your office? There will be a lot of work leading up to the convention, and high levels of coordination. CATS will be required to move visitors who are coming for the convention, while still providing quality day-to-day service for the community. What’s your go-to music genre when you feel stressed? Classical. Do you work out? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do to break a sweat? Crossfit. Current or last podcast or book you recently finished? “When Hell’s Foundations Quiver” by David Weber. What’s your comfort food? Chicken and waffles. If you had time to binge-watch TV, what show would you watch? “Game of Thrones” Lewis has three daughters and a dog. P

A community is only as strong as its weakest links. If you’re like us, you believe in helping your neighbor. To make sure they are safe from harm, that they can get back on their feet, and they can make something of themselves and beyond. It’s why we offer working people connections to safe, affordable housing, financial literacy education, services that help families build assets, and even a path to possible home ownership. If you’d like to help us in that endeavor, learn more at CommunityLinkNC.org.

601 East 5th Street, Suite 220, Charlotte, NC 28202 704.943.9490 | 1.800.977.1969 CommunityLinkNC.org

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Charlotte Black Males at Ivy League Universities and Majority White Colleges By Angela Lindsay

or those high school students wishing to attend an Ivy League college, the hard work begins long before high school graduation. Getting into Ivy League schools is an impressive achievement and involves a very selective process. The eight “Ivies” had a total of 281,060 applicants for the class of 2021. Of those applicants, less than 10 percent got admissions offers, and Harvard had the lowest acceptance rate, at just five percent, USA Today reported in 2017. That same year, Black students accounted for just nine percent of freshmen at Ivy League schools, according to a New York Times (NYT) analysis. So, what exactly does it take to gain an Ivy admission? An article from USA Today offers several suggestions, including the most obvious criteria: exceptional grades and test scores. However, a high GPA and SAT/ACT score is just the beginning. Students need to stand out in other ways, such as participating in athletics, the arts, community service, academic clubs and gaining intangible skills such as time management, leadership, teamwork and discipline. Students should focus on their passions and what qualities they can bring to the campus, as these universities are also interested in students’ lives and talents outside of the classroom. Additionally, more and more universities are looking for a “genuine” applicant who is a “good person” who will “give back.” So, being nice isn’t just a lesson learned at the kindergarten level. Writing a really good essay is one of the best ways for students to illustrate, in their own words, exactly who they are, from their interests to their life experiences. Applying early decision/early action (ED/ EA) can boost chances of acceptance, as well, and getting professional help from admissions

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

consulting firms can help applicants get ahead of the competition. While Black enrollment in colleges and universities has skyrocketed over the past 20 years, according to The Atlantic, the share of Black students at top-tier universities in the United States has dropped since 1994. Even after decades of affirmative action, Black and Hispanic students are more underrepresented at the nation’s top colleges and universities than they were 35 years ago, the NYT analysis found, particularly Black males. “African American men face great adversity and many disadvantages in today’s social and geopolitical climate. The level of excellence that they are exposed to at these very competitive institutions prepares them with the leadership, social and academic skills necessary not only to do well, but to excel in life,” says Kevin Henry, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Extended Stay America, whose son, Tyler, is enrolled at Henry’s alma mater, Cornell University. “These young people are our future social capital leaders, political influencers, entrepreneurs and innovators, CEOs, doctors and lawyers. In a word, they are in fact our future, and I believe our future is very bright with them at the helm!” Several local young men of color have risen above the down-trending statistics and joined the ranks of many other accomplished Black males who are also graduates of Ivy League schools and other prestigious universities, such as actor/author Hill Harper (Harvard Law School), singer/songwriter/actor and EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) awards recipient John Legend (University of Pennsylvania), Black Entertainment Television (BET) cofounder and former Charlotte Hornets (then Charlotte Bobcats) owner Bob Johnson (Princeton

ED/EA ACCEPTANCE RATES VS. REGULAR ACCEPTANCE RATES: BROWN

21.9% compared to 9% COLUMBIA N/A for early decision/ action; regular acceptance rate was 6.04%

CORNELL

25.6% compared to 12.5% DARTMOUTH

27.8% compared to 10.4% HARVARD

14.5% compared to 5.2% U. PENN

22.0% compared to 9.2% PRINCETON

15.4% compared to 6.1% YALE

17.1% compared to 6.9% *The Ivy Leagues’ classes of 2021 (Business Insider)

University) and, of course, former president Barack Obama (Harvard Law School). We invite you to meet a few of these outstanding future Black male leaders from the Charlotte area:

Bryce Anthony Daniel, 19 Providence Day School, class of 2018 Dartmouth University, class of 2022 Students at Dartmouth do not declare a major until their sophomore year; however, Bryce is currently interested in business. He is a member of the Dartmouth men’s baseball team, playing as an infielder. Although he has just started his first semester of college, he is “really happy with (my) decision and looking forward to four great years, both in the classroom and on the field.” While at Providence Day, Bryce was a varsity baseball player for four years, a student ambassador and a leader and active member of the Running Works group, a local foundation that helps homeless men and women through running.

Ikenna Eruchalu, 19 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2017 University of Pennsylvania, class of 2021 Ikenna is currently on a finance track and exploring opportunities to combine business/finance and music/media after college. At U. Penn, he is involved in swimming, as well as a new hobby of DJing, which stems from his love of music. He is also heavily invested in social media content that is related to success and improvement, and is interested in learning more about investing his own money in the stock market.

Tyler Alan Henry, 21 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2016 Cornell University, class of 2020 At Cornell, 21-year-old Tyler Henry is majoring in industrial and labor relations, with minors in English and law. He has ambitions toward law school, becoming an executive in human resources and nonprofit involvement. He is a member of Delta Chi fraternity (Alpha chapter) and the Minority Industrial Labor Relations Student Organization, and also serves as vice president of Civility, Diversity and Inclusion for Cornell’s Inter-Fraternity Council, as well as a Cornell Student Ambassador. Academically, Tyler earned Dean’s List and Order of Omega Honor Society distinctions and

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

University as a member of the school’s football team. He is also a member of “Black Men of Yale” and is currently considering his options for a career path after graduation.

was inducted into Cornell’s Order of the Omega Honor Society, which recognizes the top three percent of undergraduate Greeks on campus for scholarly, leadership and civic achievements. In addition, he played varsity sprint football during his freshman and sophomore years, walking on to the team.

Tobenna “Toby” Benedict Okwara, 22 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2015 Brown University, class of 2019 With plans to pursue finance or consulting in the business world upon graduation, Toby is an applied math and economics major at Brown. In between studies, he remains active on campus and in the community as the university relations cochair on Brown’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Executive Board; a member of the Brown football team leadership council; a math and economics tutor through the student-athlete tutoring program; a weekly volunteer in a special education classroom at Vartan Gregorian Elementary; a participant in the school’s annual Bench Press for Cancer fund-raiser to support the Cancer Survivorship Program for Young Adults at Miriam Hospital; and a participant in the Be the Match bone marrow donor registry drive. He has also appeared as a guest on the Brown University Football Phil Estes Show, as well as on the Ivy League Network. Proving high achievement to be a family affair, his older brother Obi, who graduated from Charlotte Latin in 2008, attended Harvard University (class of 2012) and Harvard Business School (class of 2017) and currently works as a consultant with Bain in Atlanta.

Melvin Rouse II, 19 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2017 Yale University, class of 2021 Though his major is not yet declared, Melvin is making a name for himself on the campus of Yale

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WHAT DOES IVY LEAGUE MEAN? Ivy League schools are traditionally delineated as such because they share a number of distinguishing factors, such as their reputation as prestigious centers of higher learning where selected students can receive a rigorous college education, access to an exceptionally rich array of resources, and perhaps eventually become some of the leading figures in the modern world. In addition, all of the Ivy League schools are located in the northeastern part of the United States and share characteristics of age and historical importance. All are extremely competitive in their admissions processes, have well-funded endowments and are generally considered to be among the most prestigious colleges in the United States and even the world. (CollegeVine.com)

John “Trey” Anderson Powell, III, 21 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2015 Cornell University, class of 2019 Trey stays active on the campus of Cornell as a member of the Alpha chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and serving on the Men of Color Council, a student and professional organization dedicated to formulating a cohesive network for supporting the overall development of men of color at Cornell University. He has interned at Extended Stay America and was a two-time participant in Alternative Spring Breaks, a service trip in Orlando in partnership with the Rosen Foundation. The human development major is interested in business development, as well as entrepreneurship, after graduation. He hopes to begin a career in human capital management and put himself “in a position where (he) can continue to uplift underserved communities.”

DeMarkes Morrell Stradford, II, 18 Charlotte Latin School, class of 2018

THE EIGHT IVY LEAGUE SCHOOLS: Brown University Columbia University Cornell University Dartmouth College Harvard University Princeton University The University of Pennsylvania Yale University

Harvard University, class of 2022 The recipient of such prestigious awards as the Carolina Panthers Players Sam Mills Memorial Scholarship Award and the Bronko Nagurski High School Student Athlete of the Year, DeMarkes had 21 offers from colleges and universities to play football, before making the decision to attend Harvard, where he is majoring in biomedical engineering. He plans to get involved with the Harvard Engineering Club during the offseason. After Harvard, he aspires to “build, construct and create things that will impact everyday society in a positive way in the field of bioengineering.”

Christien Spencer Williams, 20 Charlotte Country Day School, class of 2016 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), class of 2020 Over the past two years at MIT, Christien has partaken of many experiences “to grow as a leader and an engineer with the hopes of one day becoming an innovator and entrepreneur.” He has worked in research at MIT’s Media Lab and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab on projects ranging from autonomous vehicles to question-answering systems. He spent this past summer working at Facebook as part of a team that built an Android application. Outside of class/work experiences, he is member of MIT’s Sloan Business Club, which is organized into three initiatives: finance, consulting and entrepreneurship. During his sophomore year, he rose as a leader within the club’s entrepreneurship initiative. He is a cofounder of his own start up called Mixxr, and is leading market research and product development for that team. Finally, he is a captain on MIT’s men’s varsity basketball team. Majoring in computer science and minoring in business management, Christien would like to enter into product management for a few years following graduation, in order to gain experience building and launching products while looking through various lenses (engineering, marketing, sales, design, data science, etc.). Eventually, he hopes to found his own company or join a start-up in the realms of artificial intelligence or blockchain/financial technology.

Martin Taylor Winton, 21 Providence Day School, class of 2016 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), class of 2020 While at MIT, Martin has participated in a number of internships including: Lumos Networks as a software developer intern; MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab as an undergraduate researcher; Association of Marshall Scholars, Inc. as a software engineer intern; Computer Science Department as a teaching assistant; and a software engineer intern in the Facebook University Engineers Internship Program—an eight-week summer initiative. He is also a member of the National Society of Black Engineers and serves as vice president of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers/ Association for Computing Machinery. The computer science and electrical engineering major plans to earn a master’s degree in electrical engineering and computer science and pursue a career as a software engineer. P

A community exhibit organized by Levine Museum of the New South

CLOSING MARCH 26, 2019

200 E. 7th St. Charlotte, NC www.museumofthenewsouth.org Photo by Alvin C. Jacobs Jr. of To Speak No Evil

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Chicken and Waffles

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

GREG COLLIER is

The Yolk’s Secret Ingredient

Photo by Jonathan Cooper.

By Kayla Becoats | Photos by Shawn Cetrone

2 if By Land - Cheddar grits in a cast iron with two eggs and bacon.

n the midst of the Wednesday morning rush at 7th Street Market, Chef Greg Collier and his wife, Subrina, are nestled comfortably side by side sipping lattes in the new home of their wildly popular farm-to-table breakfast restaurant, The Yolk. This moment feels personal. Not only is it a testament to the duo’s hard work, individual expertise and personal sacrifices, it is a celebration of their core principles and Chef Collier’s humble beginnings growing up in Memphis coming to fruition. “Being in my granny’s house...The earliest kitchen memory I remember is sitting under a table on a green-and-white checkerboard floor with super dark, old cabinets ... And seeing flour drop on the floor,” Collier says. In fact, he credits his grandmother for the birth of his culinary passion: “What

There's Fire - Brown Butter biscuits with smoked chicken gravy and jalapeno jam.

I didn’t think at first was that there was any connection ... I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do for a long time. I got to a place where I realized it was cooking, then I got to a place where I realized I was going to be good, and then I got to a place where growing food became important in my mind. I started to find out these were some of the things she was doing. I think she was always trying to connect with me on a spiritual level.” Whether it was eating her famous butter rolls, a treat he likens to a cinnamon roll without cinnamon, or planting peach pits in the backyard together, Collier’s connection to his grandmother’s memory has yielded a harvest beyond his wildest imagination. “It just took me a while to realize that my childhood was already set up that way. My aunts, uncles and cousins were like, for

whatever reason, you were always in the kitchen ... I just think it’s because I was a fat kid ... I just wanted to be in the kitchen,” he continues. His rise to culinary acclaim is no coincidence. From his first kitchen job at a hot wing joint in Memphis, where he met his business-savvy wife, or his studies at the Scottsdale Community College culinary program in Arizona, Collier has mastered the art of cultivating his destiny, and The Yolk is his latest proof. It was formerly located in neighboring Rock Hill. The decision to move The Yolk to 7th Street Market was necessary for the Colliers’ mission to cultivate an environment that celebrates the benefits of a farm-to-table restaurant experience. For Chef Collier, it is important that his ideas are just as fresh as his ingredients.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Valley of the Sun - Chorizo chili topped with queso fresco corn tortilla and two sunny up eggs and salsa verde.

“We actually cook everything from scratch,” he says. “There aren’t any cans in the restaurant,” and his reasoning is simple: “I wanted to use everything local. I just felt like if we can support local businesses and have an ecosystem from the farm to what we were cooking, not only would my food be better, but I would be able to use different products and have a different game.” When he steps into the kitchen, he

operates with the same level of precision as an artist; the only difference is being his canvas. “We try to find a way to use everything ... I don’t think that thought process goes into a lot of breakfast restaurants ... The specials we do on the weekends, there might be grits and there might be eggs, but I don’t even look at them like breakfast. Like the pancake dishes that we do or the waffle dishes we do, we

look at them like desserts. So when we put stuff together, we’re putting flavors and concepts together versus saying, what kind of pancake can I do? What kind of waffle can I do?” His attention to detail is not only intentional, but also reflective of his penchant for nostalgia. One of his most popular dishes, the 2 If By Land, is the perfect example. “This place called Crystals (in Memphis) had a scrambler. It’s like a cheap Styrofoam cup with grits, cheese, egg and meat on top. I could not go to work without eating this.” His version, a cast iron full of yellow and white corn grits with cheddar cheese, a choice of bacon, sausage or ham and two local, free-range eggs on top pays homage to both his grandmother and his culinary journey. He continues by saying, “All the food that I cook puts me in a place, and I’ve been trying to see if I could get somebody else to be in a similar place, wherever that is.” The Yolk may be the new kid on the block, but Greg and Subrina Collier are confident. In awe of her husband’s creativity, Subrina says their food is “going to make you feel about breakfast the same way you feel about dinner,” and to that Charlotte says, challenge accepted. P

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MARCH 8-17 | KNIGHT THEATER

CHARLOTTEBALLET.ORG 26

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APRIL 25-27 | KNIGHT THEATER

704.372.1000

O H W !! T I YA W THE BATTLE CRY

When Livingstone says it’s a college of champions, it’s not just talk. The Blue Bears have won two men’s basketball championships; one women’s basketball; three football; seven golf; seven wrestling … and counting. We’re not just athletic; we win academically, too. So when we shout our battle cry, there is only one response of champions:

LC! “ ”

Don’t believe

the hype? Scan here

Livingstone College

LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE

www.livingstone.edu

Claflin President Henry N. Tisdale Brings

Visionary Leadership and Focus on Academic Excellence to CIAA

Claflin President Henry N. Tisdale (left) joins Athletic Director Jerome Fitch (far right) during presentation to senior student-athletes on the women’s volleyball team.

W Henry N. Tisdale

hen Henry N. Tisdale graduated with honors from Claflin University in 1965, he had no idea that he would become the university’s eighth president. However, when he was offered the position while serving as vice president at another institution, the “Claflin Confidence,” which was instilled in Tisdale as an undergraduate and was now in his DNA, guided his belief that he was prepared for the challenge. Tisdale is in his 25th year of providing exemplary leadership at his alma mater. His tenure has been distinguished by unprecedented recognition toward achieving his goal for the university to

become a leading institution of higher education in the 21st century. Founded in 1869, Claflin is South Carolina’s first and oldest historically black college/university (HBCU). It was the first institution of higher education in South Carolina to admit students regardless of gender, race, religion or ethnic origin. The university is celebrating its 150-year anniversary of academic excellence and producing graduates who are transformative and engaged visionary leaders with global perspectives. Claflin officially joined the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) on July 1, 2018. The move to the CIAA January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

BOC 2019 Embracing the Future of Our Economy

By the year 2030, Artificial Intelligence will add $15.7 trillion to the global economy.

~Business Insider

Aug. 5-6

Virginia Beach, VA

2019

Make plans to attend the... CVMSDC 2019 Business Opportunity Conference Sponsored by:

▪Ferguson ▪Virginia Beach—Department of Economic Development

from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) represents Tisdale’s focus on increasing Claflin’s brand in regions north of South Carolina that are heavily populated by the university’s “Leal and Loyal” alumni. “We saw the CIAA as a great fit for Claflin University,” Tisdale said. “The CIAA’s footprint aligns with our strong collection of alumni in areas such as North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C. This also is an opportunity to strengthen student recruitment efforts in those locations. All of these variables – including the conference’s commitment to academic excellence and student success -contributed to Claflin accepting the invitation to join the CIAA.” Since Tisdale’s appointment in 1994, Claflin has steadily emerged as one of the nation’s premier liberal arts institutions. Prominent in a litany of Tisdale’s successes is the university’s successful capital campaign that ended in 2016 and raised $105 million. Tisdale has significantly increased enrollment, expanded undergraduate and graduate degree offerings, launched and achieved unprecedented fundraising goals,

strengthened the university’s technology infrastructure, implemented a plan that featured massive new construction and renovation, strengthened alumni relations and embraced sustainability. Most recently, he moved the university into the online environment, with online undergraduate and graduate degree programs. For 16 consecutive years, Claflin has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report: ranked in the Top Ten among HBCUs, as a Top Tier national liberal arts institution and a “Best Buy” among colleges and universities. Claflin has received similar recognitions from Forbes. com and the Washington Monthly. “We moved up two notches this year, to number seven on U.S. News and World Report’s Top 10 List of HBCUs,” said Tisdale, who is particularly proud of Claflin university’s enrollment, which has doubled and become more diverse during his tenure. Tisdale announced last spring that he will his retire effective June 30, 2019. His transformational leadership has garnered him numerous prestigious recognitions and awards, including the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian award, the Higher Education Leadership

Foundation Award and the I. DeQuincey Newman Humanitarian Award. He currently serves as chair of the United Negro College Fund Government Affairs Committee and as member of on the board of directors of the Orangeburg County Economic Development Partnership. He has received been conferred honorary doctorates from Hofstra University and South Carolina State University. Tisdale is married to the former Alice Carson, and they have two adult children, Danica Tisdale Fisher and Brandon Keith Tisdale, and two grandchildren, Asa and Anansa Fisher. “We are excited about competing in the CIAA and contributing to conference’s illustrious legacy of producing awardwinning student athletes and championship teams,” Tisdale said. “Our alumni, students, faculty, staff and other supporters are looking forward to cheering for our teams as Claflin begins a new era of intercollegiate athletics.” P

In Collaboration with Kayla Cato, Claflin University, 2019 and Dillon Parker, Claflin University, 2019.

Welcome to our city

Johnson C. Smith University is proud to be the 2019 CIAA Tournament hometown school. We welcome all the teams to our city, the Queen City, Charlotte, NC.

JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

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2019 Pride Awards Luncheon to Honor an Outstanding Nonprofit The Males Place

Founder - Baba Reggie Singleton

Each year, the prestigious Pride Awards event recognizes an outstanding nonprofit with a monetary donation. This year’s donation, underwritten by Wells Fargo, will be presented on Thursday, Jan. 24, to one of the following outstanding nonprofits serving our community. In addition, the founder of the winning nonprofit will be recognized for outstanding achievement. Go to www.prideawards.net for more information about the luncheon, the nonprofits and their founders.

The Males Place Inc. is North Carolina’s leader in mentoring. The organization was established to provide malecentered, African-centered and secular mentoring to young Black boys between the ages of 12 and 18 in Charlotte. For the past 25 years, The Males Place Inc. has equipped thousands of young men with the life skills needed to reduce their risk of violence, drug abuse, food insecurity and teen pregnancy. Through its core pillars of mentorship, agriculture and social justice, the organization provides the life skills and training necessary for appropriate manhood. The Males Place Inc. strives to inspire African American boys on the values of becoming not only future farmers and agriculturalists, but entrepreneurs, as well. The organization also uses practical strategies for self-sufficiency and sovereignty that will allow them to be full participants in Charlotte’s food system. Since 2009, The Males Place Inc. has been the proud leader in the production and distribution of clean, fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables along the Beatties Ford Road corridor. Additionally, the organization boasts a rigorous cultural immersion travel schedule to help expand the hopes, dreams and perspectives of its students. Previous cultural and educational trips have been to places including Selma, AL; Washington, D.C.; Charleston, SC, as well as internationally to Ghana and Belgium.

Young Black Leadership Alliance Founder – John Martin

The Young Black Leadership Alliance (YBLA) was first established in 2006 for young Black men as YBM (Young Leadership Alliance). In 2015, the organization expanded to include young women and was officially renamed YBLA. The organization is designed to empower young Black students to be future leaders through robust training in preparation for college, career and life. Its mission is to identify, educate and develop young Black leaders to have a positive impact in their communities and beyond. To help students reach their highest potential, young leaders are trained to mentor elementary, middle and high school students through leadership and service YBLA has two major programs, Ambassador and YLeaders. Each program is specifically designed to address the unique needs of today’s young leaders. YBLA has five signature events that showcase its young leaders and provide developmental opportunities. Over the past 12 years, YBLA participants have impacted more than 13,000 young people around the world through conferences, workshops, service projects and international mission trips.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

23234 x 9.875 4c

Race Matters for Juvenile Justice

Founder – Elisa Chinn-Gary

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Race Matters for Juvenile Justice (RMJJ) is a collaborative leadership group formed by the juvenile judges and court officials of North Carolina’s 26th Judicial District. The group seeks to mitigate the impact of implicit bias and institutional racism on children and families of color in the justice system. Founded in 2010, RMJJ brings together judicial officials, systems’ experts, service providers and community partners who strive to create a community where the composition and outcomes of juvenile courts cannot be predicted by race or ethnicity. The organization hosts a regional conference that brings together hundreds of leaders from different institutions to discuss disparities across various systems including juvenile justice, child welfare and education. These conferences equip attendees with tools and techniques to interrupt implicit biases within their agencies. In addition to its their regional conference, RMJJ also partners with a variety of community stakeholders to teach individuals about implicit bias and the history of racism in our country. The workshops provide attendees with a foundation for race analysis, and prepare them to provide a culturally sensitive and competent workforce to eliminate decisions, policies and procedures that lead to adverse outcomes for people of color. To date, more than 3,500 individuals have attended the workshops, and that number continues to grow. P

Gaston College Program Aims to Make Over the

Face of Manufacturing

Edgar Torres received his Journeyworker Certificate at the Apprenticeship 321 Signing Ceremony on Friday, September 14, at the Gaston College Center for Advanced Manufacturing. He apprenticed at KACO USA, an automotive parts manufacturer in Lincolnton, N.C., where he works in the set-up department. By LaShawn L. Hudson

dgar Torres says when he looks back, he was probably always destined for a career in advanced manufacturing. “When I was growing up, I used to help my dad fix things,” explains Torres, now 22. “I would always follow him around. I remember him allowing me to help him fix things around the house.” His fondest memories working alongside his father as a handyman finally evolved into a real career opportunity about three years ago. At the time, he was working fulltime as a machine operator at KACO USA Incorporated in Lincolnton, about 35 miles northwest of Charlotte. After a few months on the job, Torres says his employer presented him with the opportunity of a lifetime: Join a new program that would allow him to work full-

time while earning college credit for free. “The apprenticeship opened me up to new possibilities. It allowed me to do something that at first I didn’t think I would like, honestly,” he admits. His employer is one of 10 local manufacturers partnering with Gaston College for the Apprenticeship 321 program, launched in 2015. Jill Hendrix and Tanya Osbia oversee the apprenticeship program. Both say it was designed to produce and recruit the next generation of skilled workers in advanced manufacturing. “This program gives opportunity,” says Hendrix, who serves as the coordinator. “Our apprentices have the opportunity to retire as a machinist, maintenance technician or as an electrician, if that’s the career path they want to take. Our apprentices also have the opportunity to go into management.” Although each participating company

selects each apprentice, apprentices each must pass a placement test, maintain at least 2.5 grade-point average and maintain strong attendance at work and at school. The length of each apprenticeship depends on the chosen occupational pathway and could last from two to four years. Enrollees may choose one of five pathways: mechatronics technician, tool and die maker, machine set-up operator, chemical operator technicians or industrial maintenance mechanics. “The five occupations that are within the apprenticeship program are occupations that companies have expressed a need for,” adds Osbia. “These are positions which they can’t seem to fill. There aren’t enough people working in advanced manufacturing.” According to research published by the Deloitte Review in 2015, the demand for skilled workers will continue to surge as January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Left: (Left to Right) Apprenticeship 321 program supporters from Gaston College and N.C. Community College System. Dr. Dennis McElhoe, Vice President, Economic and Workforce Development for Gaston College; Jill Hendrix, Coordinator-Apprenticeship and Continuing Education Programs at Gaston College; Dr. Patricia Skinner, President of Gaston College; Kathryn Castelloes, Apprenticeship NC Director with N.C. Community College System; Tanya Osbia, Success Coach, Apprenticeship 321; and Eric Tillmon, Apprenticeship Consultant with N.C. Community College System. Right: (Left to Right) Tonya Osbia, Success Coach, Apprenticeship 321 Program and Jill Hendrix, Coordinator – Apprenticeship and Continuing Education Program at Gaston College.

baby boomers retire. More than 3.5 million manufacturing jobs are expected to open up by 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that manufacturing jobs were among the more than 250,000 jobs added to the U.S. economy in October of 2018.

Osbia says one of the biggest challenges she faces as a success coach is trying to change the stereotypical, outdated narrative about what it is like to work in advanced manufacturing. “We are trying to get young people to understand that it’s not the same type of

manufacturing that your grandparents did back in the day,” she says. Currently, there are 19 apprentices enrolled in Apprenticeship 321. They hail from diverse backgrounds; at least three are women and at least two are Hispanic. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, each participant is awarded a nationallyrecognized certification and an academic credential from Gaston College. “The goal of Apprenticeship 321 is to graduate students so that they can complete their selected pathway and earn journeyworker’s card,” explains Hendrix. “It’s very much a triangle. We have the student at the heart of it and the success coach and the mentor at the base of the triangle, who support the student, helping them to successfully complete the program.” As for Torres, after juggling work and school for nearly two years, in December of 2017, he completed the program and was promoted to a process technician’s job. He now fixes the same machines that he once operated. He is currently taking online classes and is working toward earning his associate degree in advanced manufacturing and engineering. “My boss stuck his neck out to make sure I was successful.” he explains. “It was the right moment and it was the right time. And I didn’t let the opportunity pass by; I took advantage of it.” P For more information about Apprenticeship 321, you may send an email to: apprenticeships@ gaston.edu

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

Alvin Jacobs

Doesn’t Shoot For ‘Likes,’ He Shoots For Change By Tonya Jameson

Photo by Xenaissance Photography

hotographer Alvin Jacobs is finding his rhythm. Nearly two years after his work was featured in the Levine Museum of the New South exhibit “K(No)w Justice, K(No)w Peace,” the 44-year-old is turning his eye to Charlotte neighborhoods. Jacobs has exhibits in the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts+Culture and the Levine Museum of the New South, and he’s working on new projects for both institutions. He also has a residency at the Gantt Center. Charlotte Magazine named him a Charlottean of the Year in 2018, and the now defunct Creative Loafing named him Photographer of the Year last year. Jacobs reflects on his career trajectory with wonder. He initially wanted to become a famous celebrity photographer. “I wanted to be in the magazines. I wanted to be around the rappers,” he said. “I went from trying to get an image with a thousand ‘likes’ to wanting to build a legacy.” After Trayvon Martin’s murder in 2012, Jacobs’ focus changed. Capturing rappers and athletes didn’t seem so important, in the wake of what was happening in the country. Jacobs decided to document the movement that was just beginning at the time. He wanted to tell our stories the same way Gordon Parks and others documented the Civil Rights Movement. Black Lives Matters was this generation’s movement. Jacobs first came into the local spotlight in 2017, when his work documenting the protests surrounding police shootings was featured in the Levine exhibit, which closes in March. “K(no)w Justice, K(no)w Peace” set record attendance at the Levine Museum, said Levine staff historian Willie Griffin. “The photographs he took for ‘K(No)w Justice, K(No) Peace’ have been iconic in telling the Black Lives movement,” Griffin said.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

Slap Box, Alvin C. Jacobs Jr., 2018

Water World, Alvin C. Jacobs Jr. ,2018

Jacobs is working with Griffin on the latest museum exhibition, titled “#HomeCLT,” which examines economic opportunity issues facing Charlotte through the stories of city neighborhoods. The project includes oral histories, capturing the diverse voices of present-day Charlotteans; a series of on-site and pop-up exhibits and community programs. The first phase of “#HomeCLT” opens in February. A few blocks away from the Levine, Jacobs’ works are on display in the Gantt Center’s “Welcome to Brookhill” exhibit, which documents the last of the residents to move out of the 67-year-old Brookhill Village community. Jacobs spent three months documenting the residents’ lives, as they prepared to leave the housing development that will be torn down. The exhibit opened last September and will kick off a season of new activist-themed exhibits at the Gantt Center. It closes in September. Jacobs’ work on Brookhill lead to a residency at the Gantt Center, which gives him a freedom that he relishes. “I have the autonomy to move, to get what I need and give what I have,”

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he said. “And it’s appreciated.” As part of his Gantt residency, Jacobs does weeklong guest lectures at CMS schools. The idea that he is shaping young minds is not something he takes lightly. “It’s another level of responsibility,” Jacobs said. “Now, I have to take everything I’ve done more seriously.” One of those things is his work for the Gantt Center on “For Freedoms 50 State Initiative.” It is a nonpartisan, nationwide program that uses art to facilitate public discussions on civic issues and core values. Jacobs spent part of the 2016 election campaign season documenting the voices of voters throughout the city. He hopes his works will help people, especially young people, understand that they must work to help create the city they want to live in. Posting on social media isn’t enough. It starts with voting, holding elected officials accountable and attending meetings, he said. Charlotte welcomes the hard questions, he said. The city is ready to do the work. And Jacobs will be there to capture each step of the movement – the good and the bad. P

SceneandSeen

African Print Fashion NOW! V.I.P. opening celebration at the Mint Museum-Randolph.

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

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11/21/18

3:36 PM

New Year, Better You Tips for Seniors

By Kayla Becoats

ging and New Year’s resolutions have a lot in common. For one, they’re both considered rites of passage, with age perhaps bringing wisdom and the New Year presenting a sense of rebirth. However, according to Business Insider, nearly 80 percent of people (of all ages) fail to maintain their resolutions for more than six weeks. As daunting as that percentage may seem, here’s a thought: In 2019, replace “New Year, New You” with “New Year, Better You.”

Here’s how: Keep your mind sharp

It’s true that when you age, your mind does, too. Having difficulty retaining new information or remembering all the ingredients in your famous macaroni and cheese is natural sometimes. Just like your physical body, it is critical that you exercise your mind. Harvard University recommends prioritizing your brain usage. For example, “If you don’t need to use mental energy remembering where you laid your keys or the time of your granddaughter’s birthday party, you’ll be better able to concentrate on learning and remembering new and important things.” Furthermore, the key to retaining information is repetition: “When you want to remember something you’ve just heard, read, or thought about, repeat it out loud or write it down.”

Learn to love technology

Technology can be a lot of things— intimidating, life-changing, overwhelming and perhaps even all of the above. However, the truth is that no matter how you feel about it, technology is only going to continue advancing and reshaping the way we do simple things, such as communicate. You don’t have to become an expert, but learning how to video chat or joining a social media network such as Facebook allows you to keep in touch with friends and family, by creating a sense of community despite any physical barriers. Stay ahead of the curve by challenging yourself to explore different ways of using technology. It can be as simple

as learning how to download your favorite songs, or finding apps that make reading text on digital screens less straining on your eyes.

by the process.” Remember, organizing your space now saves your loved ones the trouble later.

Stop hoarding things that no longer serve a purpose

Anger, hatred and guilt are all heavy burdens. During a time in your life when your energy should be spent on maintaining a comfortable quality of life, holding grudges will certainly detract from that. How bad can holding a grudge be? According to the Mayo Clinic, grudges can “Bring anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience” and can even cause you to “become depressed or anxious.” On the other end of the spectrum, forgiveness can lead to “less anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improved heart health,” among many other benefits. When it comes to forgiveness it may help to think of it as a journey. The first step is to “Recognize the value of forgiveness and how it can improve your life.” P

Sure, nostalgia is a beautiful thing, but sometimes it manifests itself into piles of clutter that just take up space. While there is no shame in holding onto those items that remind you of sentimental moments, such as family vacations or milestone birthdays, in between those significant reminders are often where clutter lurks. A good indication of whether an item is long overdue for removal from your space is if your children or friends don’t want it. When it comes to de-cluttering, professional organizer Nicole Anzia tells ApartmentTherapy.com you should, “Spend a few hours — 2 or 3 — on one project or space. This way you’ll feel motivated to do more, not be burned out

Forgive

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

PrideHealth

What’s Killing Our Kids?

After years of decline in childhood and adolescent deaths, the numbers are back on the rise By Eren Simpson

reduction in deaths caused by infectious diseases contributed to a decrease in the death rate for children and adolescents in the United States beginning in the 1990s, but injury-related deaths have taken its place and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in June that injuryrelated deaths for children and adolescents, ages 10-19, is on the rise. The number one cause of death in this age group is unintentional injuries: mainly motor vehicle accidents, drowning and poisoning. These injuries accounted for 85 percent of all unintended injury deaths in 2016. After unintentional injury, suicide and homicide are the second and third largest cause of death for children and adolescents. All three — unintentional, suicide and homicide — contributed to the recent increase in total injury deaths. Unintentional injury and homicide numbers began to increase in 2013–2014 after years of decline, whereas the suicide rates began their climb earlier in 2007. The CDC reported the increase in suicide rates is reflective of data from emergency department visits for nonfatal, self-harm

injuries requiring treatment, which has been shown to be a precursor to suicidal behavior. And while homicide rates for adolescents aged 10–19 declined by about one-third during 2007–2014, they’ve since reversed and have continued to rise through 2016. Firearms are the leading method of homicide, accounting for almost nine in 10 deaths, and the firearm-homicide rate increased by about one-quarter between 2014 and 2016. The CDC report stated that the findings in the report could be off, and numbers actually higher, because authors of the report believe suicide is often underreported, and that may be especially true in suicides involving drug overdoses. Although progress was made in reducing injury deaths among 10–19-year-olds during 1999–2013, the recent upturn shows that persistent as well as emerging challenges remain. The CDC report stated that while deaths were reduced from some of the leading causes of injury death, such as motor vehicle deaths and homicide, further reductions will require renewed focus and effort. These results also document the increases in poisoning deaths (primarily opioid drug overdoses) and suicide in this

young population, which may inform public health prevention efforts. Nearly 45,000 suicides occurred in the United States in 2016 — more than twice the number of homicides — making it the 10th-leading cause of death. Among people 15-34, suicide is the second-leading cause of death. The most common method used across all groups was firearms. In North Carolina, the suicide rate increased to 13.39 percent, slightly higher than the national average of 13.32, with the opioid crisis contributing to the numbers. The American Center for Suicide Prevention estimates that one person dies by suicide every six hours in North Carolina, and more than twice as many people die by suicide in the state than by homicide. If you are in crisis, call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential. Or visit the North Carolina Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force website at http://www.itsok2ask.com/ for local resources. To see more about the CDC’s report, visit https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr67/ nvsr67_04.pdf. P

PrideHealth

Racism and Health: The Conversation Continues By Deborah J. Walker, PhD

“

wo steps forward and one step back” is a phrase that often is used to describe the dynamics of racial progress in this country. On the one hand, African Americans and other people of color (Hispanics/Latinos and Native Americans) have pushed to have our country fulfill its goal of “one nation under God,” while at the same time trying to counteract the effects of racial inequities on our health, as well as other aspects of our lives. Thus, this “two steps forward, one step back” conflict invites continual conversations, conversations about the ultimate impact of inequities on both our individual health and the health of our nation as a whole. Anjum Sultana, in “Racial Justice Matters: Why Racism is a Public Health Issue,” says: “One of the fundamental reasons for combating racism, in all of its forms, is because when one group is unjustly targeted, not only is that an infringement on their human rights, we all also lose our collective potential to be a vibrant and inclusive society.”

Racism’s Effects on Health

Racism is defined as having negative racial prejudices/biases and the institutional power to discriminate. Race, racial prejudice and race discrimination still disproportionately shape the health experiences of African Americans, as well as Hispanics and Native Americans, despite decades of work to erase their personal and community effects. The structure of racism, the “implicit bias” or “unconscious unthinking discrimination,” continues to inflict serious health tolls. Some examples of impact are: • African American teens who experience racial discrimination in adolescence are more likely to develop stress-related health issues that could put them at risk for chronic disease later in life. • African American and Latino youth who experience racial bullying can suffer from depression and behavioral problems, often leading to dropping out of school. • African American women being labeled as angry and harsh ensures that they

aren’t seen as real human beings with a full range of emotions, including fear, fragility and vulnerability. Kimberly Seals Allers, an award-winning journalist and former senior editor of Essence magazine, notes: “Yes, we are angry, and we are exhausted. It’s physically painful and can be detrimental to our health to be constrained by such stereotypes.” • Premature death still arises from disproportionately experiencing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and obesity, both in men and women. • Internalized racism — believing the negative messages and stereotypes about one’s racial identity, and trying to mediate against them through stress-coping behaviors such as substance abuse.

redress and to energetically participate in anti-oppression movements.” Mary Travis Bassett, former commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Hygiene, noted in a speech at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “The data is clear. If we fail to explicitly talk about racism in health, especially at this time of public dialogue about race relations in this country, we may unintentionally bolster the status quo and enable the perpetuation of health inequities even as society is calling for change.” “Two steps forward and one step back” doesn’t have to define our health legacy in this country. We all are in this together. Let’s continue the conversation. P

Healing the Brokenness — Steps to Combating Personal Impact of Racism

Increasingly, African Americans are acknowledging the continuing impact of racism and are unashamedly seeking mental health services. They also are increasingly conscious that they don’t have to go it alone — that racism is a killer, and that they need to take active steps to ensure their physical, emotional and mental health. This will help ensure that future generations will have the tools and skills to combat the ongoing effects of racism.

Racism and Society’s Health

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” famously noted: “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Roberta K. Timothy, in “Racism Impacts Your Health,” also noted, “When we fail to address the real impact of racism on Black communities’ health, we not only lose our community members to often preventable disease, illness, institutionalization and ultimately death, we also lose our opportunity for January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

PrideBusiness

FYI News & Notes Compiled by Robin W. Pearson

Bissells Give $2 MILLION to Help After-School Program

Atrium Health Named CHIME HealthCare’s Most-Wired 2018 For the 15th consecutive year, the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) just named Atrium Health as “CHIME HealthCare’s Most-Wired 2018.” This designation is based on Atrium’s success using technological systems to efficiently and effectively improve patient care and experience. Based in the Southeast, Atrium Health was formerly Carolinas HealthCare System. It opened in 1940 as Charlotte Memorial Hospital. Today, more than forty hospitals and 900 hundred centers make up the nationally topranking health care provider. To make its decision, the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives evaluated Atrium Health’s practices and strategic use of information technology. It considered Atrium Heath’s enhanced online patient portal and mobile applications, its integration of IV pump data into the electronic health record and Atrium Health’s implementation of a secure text messaging system, among other technologies it has developed over the past year. Atrium Health has ranked in the 99th percentile, compared to similar healthcare systems. This makes it the only organization in North Carolina ranked in the top 10 nationally.

Explore Charlotte in “100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die” Authored by local writer Sarah Crosland, “100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die” is full of fun, quirky and adventurous ways to connect with the city and nearby surroundings. The second edition highlights easy-tofollow suggestions for family-friendly festivals, cultural stops, top shops and can’t-miss dining destinations, as well as insider tips and itineraries. Check it out for all the cool things to do this winter. Available wherever books are sold. $16.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

More than 40 years ago, when George E. Battle Jr. pastored the Gethsemane A.M.E. Zion Church, he recognized a need: a kind, safe environment for the community’s at-risk children to retreat to after school. In 1975, he founded an enrichment program in the church’s basement to meet that need. Today, the “safety net” Bishop Battle began is known as the Greater Enrichment Program (GEP). It serves as Charlotte’s longest-running afterschool program. The five-star Greater Enrichment Program welcomes pre-kindergarten to fifth-grade students and their parents. Volunteers and staff focus on the program’s core values of “Courtesy, Cooperation, Care and Consideration” to build literacy, develop leadership skills and tutor and mentor students. It also provides limited transportation services to families in need. More than 10,000 students have been helped at four Charlotte-Mecklenburg locations, including the Movement charter school, Thomasboro Academy, Ashley Park Elementary and Merry Oaks Academy. All this work takes time—and money. And like Bishop Battle, Howard C. “Smoky” and Margaret Bissell also saw a need, when reductions in city funding threatened the continuation of the Greater Enrichment Program. Smoky Bissell is a local developer and chairman of Bissell Companies. His wife, Margaret, is a retired CMS educator and former head of school of Charlotte Country Day School. They responded to the need they saw by donating a $2 million matching gift, which will be used to create a $4 million endowment. The Bissells’ donation is a gift that will keep on giving. Their act will sustain and grow GEP for generations to come.

PrideBusiness

Novant Health and M&F Bank Partner to Help Small Businesses

By Robin W. Pearson

ovant Health does not just tend to the physical well-being of the individual. Mechanics and Farmers Bank (M&F Bank) does not just invest in one’s person’s financial success. Both companies believe in supporting the entire community’s welfare. And to further their shared aim, they partnered to form the Diverse Supplier Community Reinvestment Program (DSCRP) in March 2018. The success of their program hinges on their focus on two ideas: diversity and inclusion. “We recognize that small and diverseowned businesses still encounter difficulties securing the financial resources necessary to grow their businesses,” said Kevin J. Price, senior director of supplier diversity and performance at Novant Health. And these businesses have long been the focus of M&F Bank, chartered by North Carolina in 1907. The bank’s partnership with Novant contributes to its history of “serving all facets of the community” including the people and skilled labor of the African American community. In their combined effort, small, diverse owners in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia must first have a working relationship with Novant Health. Qualified

companies can apply for and receive working capital in the form of guaranteed loans from M&F Bank. They use this capital to help sustain and grow their businesses. Using this funding, these small business owners can then compete with larger companies in the supplier market. But the support does not stop there. Novant Health knows successful business owners need more than capital; they also need training to manage it, so they can thrive in the competitive marketplace. According to Price, “Small and diverse businesses are given the opportunity to attend the Building a High-Performing Minority-Owned Business program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.” These businesses do not have to be Novant Health suppliers. Tuck’s faculty works to educate, train and equip minority business owners. Its curriculum helps students build value in their companies’ products and increase profitability. Mario Mendigaña benefited from both, attending the Tuck School and taking part in the Diverse Supplier Community Reinvestment Program. When he arrived in the United States from Ecuador in 2002, he could not speak English and had little in the way of financial resources. Yet today, he is the president and owner of Elite Touch

Cleaning Services, Inc., a booming small business. Charlotte recognizes the importance of investing in this segment of the market, small and Mario Mendigaña diverse-owned businesses. In February, the Queen City was ranked as the third-best location in the United States in which to start a small business by Wallethub. Such recognition attracts individuals, companies and other services, growing and enhancing the community. So, when large companies such as Novant Health and M&F Bank work together to invest time, energy, education and money, they not only help smallbusiness owners; they also help themselves. They help the communities who will need health care and banking services. According to Mary Charlotte Cannon, the public relations specialist with Novant Health, this partnership represents “holistic care and truly demonstrates our commitment to our mission of improving the health of our communities, one person at a time.” P

January-February 2019 | Pride Magazine

EventsCalendar

Mark Your Calendar Compiled by Shawn D. Allison, II

January 5 Learn how to create transcendent worlds such as Wakanda in a oneof-a-kind Comic Book Creation Workshop at The Gantt Center with artist Marcus Kiser. Best known for his futuristic creation, “Intergalactic Soul,” he will demonstrate the techniques to develop artistic storylines with your favorite characters, using digital and traditional media. $5. 11 a.m. Ganttcenter.org

of the Cotton Club. $28. Theatrecharlotte.org

January 13 Come celebrate MLK Day at The Gantt Center, featuring an entire day full of art, music, dancing, spoken word, lectures, children’s activities, film screenings and more. Free Admission. 9 a.m. 551 S. Tryon St.

February 15 – 17 Alley-oops and slam dunks fill the air as the QC hosts the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend. Come out, see your favorite current stars, NBA legends and more with a wide host of parties, games and interactive events. allstarweekendcharlotte. com Various times, places, costs.

January 18 The Deltas of Charlotte Foundation presents its 16th Annual Legacy of Black Women Film Showcase this evening at Spirit Square. This showcase will feature short films of both local and national independent Black women filmmakers, fellowship and fund-raising for scholarships. 7 p.m. 345 N. College St. carolinatix.org January 25 Comic book fans, come assemble for this live, actionpacked, legendary battle to defend the universe from evil at Marvel Universe LIVE: Age of Heroes. This allnew multimedia show unites some of Marvel’s greatest superheroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk and Black Widow, against some threatening victims.

February 13 Make your Valentine’s Day an unforgettable one with Patti LaBelle performing live. The Philly songbird comes to the QC in a special concert, performing her greatest hits in an evening full of powerful vocals, infectious energy and Ms. Patti’s signature shoe kicks. Tickets start at $24.50. 7:30 p.m. 704.372.

Save The Date! PRIDE AWARDS 2019! We are set for another out-of-the box, exclusive luncheon on THURSDAY, JANUARY 24 at the RitzCarlton. For more details, log onto pridemagzineonline.com

Tickets start at $20. 7 p.m. Ticketmaster.com

in the QC area. Free. 1 p.m. 8927 J.M. Keynes Dr.

January 25 – February 16 Enjoy a riveting concert showcase modeled after one of the most tragic events in American history at Nina Simone: Four Women. The velvet-throated “High Priestess of Soul” hypnotized audiences with her signature renditions of standards from the American songbook, and here’s your chance to experience it through four multitalented vocalists. Carolinatix.org

February 1 Enjoy an evening of love at The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art as it presents a special edition of “Jazz at the Bechtler” entitled, Jazz for Lovers, featuring the beautiful and melodic Toni Tupponce on vocals. It’ll be sure to set the mood for love. 6 and 8:15 p.m. 420 S. Tryon St. Bechtler.org

January 26 Join the Single Saved & Serious Movement as it hosts its Second Annual Kingdom Networking Meet & Greet. Come hear inspirational stories, network and experience the creative liturgical gifts of several ministers and parishioners

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February 1 – 17 Theatre Charlotte invites you out for a swingin’ good time as it proudly presents Ain’t Misbehavin’: The Fats Waller Musical Show. This sassy, sultry musical celebration of the legendary jazz great features jumpin’, jivin’ swing music that evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of the golden age

February 21 The QCs native son, Adrian Crutchfield, celebrates the smooth sounds of the legendary groove master, saxophonist Grover Washington Jr., in a special edition of The Jazz Room. Crutchfield and his band will perform music from across Washington’s career. $16-60. 6 and 8:15 p.m. Carolinatix.org February 26 – March 2 Come and get your HBCU courtside cheer on at the 2019 CIAA Tournament. Our beloved institutions all congregate in the QC for another week full of games, fellowship and events for the entire family. ciaatournament. org Various times, places, costs.

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