The Charlotte Post

THURSDAY,Li DECEMBERf 17,e 2020 SECTION! B Consortium aims to foster racial healing FAMOUS TOASTERY Justin and Kim Griffith, owners of a Famous Toastery franchise in Center City, rebounded from laying off 30 employees due to By Ashley Mahoney the pandemic when customers responded to their call to action in support of their Black-owned business. [email protected] Charlotte’s colleges are striving to rewrite the narrative around race. Johnson C. Smith University, Queens University and UNC Charlotte were awarded a $20,000 one-year Outpouring of support grant through the Association of American Colleges & Universities as a Truth, Racial Healing and Trans- formation Campus Center to create the Charlotte Ra- cial Justice Consortium. Johnson & Wales University and Central Piedmont Community College joined in keeps restaurant serving the summer. “It is our way as the academic institutions, which Customers step in to help Black-owned eatery weather the pandemic are cornerstones in the community, to rewrite the narrative around race in this city, to reimagine what By Ashley Mahoney you get to see the other side of it fiths selected an option on Yelp race can look like and to provide a [email protected] and coming back down to reality. that identified the restaurant as pathway for us to pull in other in- I lived in a world where when you Black-owned. Yelp sent a sticker, stitutions to begin creating that Justin Griffith knows how to get went to the airport you had police which they made visible on a win- On The Net change to create equity and ready for high-pressure situ- escorts and your hotels were dow and also posted on Instagram taken care of, but when March hit, https://diversity.unc true social justice across our ations, but 12 years in the Na- on June 4. At that time, civil un- reality set in and you saw real life c.edu/charlotte-ra- community,” JCSU Master of tional Football League could not rest was spreading across the na- cial-justice-consor- Social Work program director prepare him for 2020. things where people were de- tion after George Floyd was killed tium Melvin Herring said. The former fullback played for pending on that next paycheck to by police in Minneapolis, Minne- The schools created the Char- the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland (now make it happen.” sota. People demanded more than lotte Racial Equity Fellows Pro- Las Vegas) Raiders and Seattle Sea- Griffith, like many business lip service and statements from gram, which consists of 24 students, at hawks from 2003-09 and went on owners, had to furlough employ- companies about the value of least four from each campus. Students went through to coach with the Raiders. In 2018, ees – 30 total. To-go orders did Black lives. Many an application and interview process, and the vision he and his wife Kim became Fa- not produce the same profit to re- made economic is for the inaugural group fellows to mentor the next mous Toastery franchisees at 330 tain the entire staff. moves, delib- On The Net class. S. Tryon St. Their restaurant is “The only thing I could correlate erately spending www.insta- “The ultimate goal is that these students are going conveniently located on one of with that was as a coach, watching their dollars at gram.com/fa- to do this work wherever they end up, because it has the busiest streets in Uptown, players who did not make the Black-owned moustoasteryu to be continued,” JCSU communication and theatre with frequent foot traffic from football team walk out of the businesses like ptown professor Cindy Kistenberg said. “It’s not just a one- people heading into work, grab- locker room,” Griffith said. “They Griffith’s Famous shot. We know that. We have 400 years of systemic bing a bite with friends and had to put everything in a trash Toastery. racism in our society that is not going away, but we family, or enjoying a meal before bag and move on with their lives, “We saw nearly a 50% increase in have to find a way to change things. The universities a Carolina Panthers game. or try to make a different team.” sales on the weekends, where now are a great place to start this work, and then to go Then COVID-19 created a drasti- Griffith felt the weight of having we had people waiting in line on out into the community. We don’t have an ulterior cally different look in Charlotte’s to upend the lives of his employ- the weekends,” Griffith said. “We motive. We are about educating people. That is it. previously bustling center city. ees. miss our customers. We want to That’s why this is such a great group and a great “That was devastating,” Griffith “The letters are coming in the be right here when everything is place to start to try to heal the city and eventually said. “Kim and I love people. We mail where I had to confirm that back to normal.” help heal our nation, because God knows it needs it.” love our employees. We had a this employee was laid off at this Throughout the pandemic, the The 13 leaders are actively seeking out additional really good system going. I have time and hired at that time so they Griffiths donated meals to first re- grant funding to sustain the program to provide been blessed throughout my life can receive appropriate benefits sponders and the needed. They training for their fellows, create community events, to have the opportunity to play in from the federal government, that also partnered with Freedom bringing in experts, purchase necessary equipment the NFL for eight years and I was was a reality check,” Griffith said. House Church to provide meals to and create a website, which is currently housed by also blessed and fortunate “We were dealing with something a local women’s shelter. UNCC. Fellows also receive a $2,000 stipend which enough to coach for four years. that was way more than I had ever As 2020 winds down, the goal is Twelve years of my life I had the experienced in my life.” to take it one day at a time while Please see COLLEGE | 2B opportunity to be part of the NFL. They have since been able to re- still enjoying the holiday season Sometimes you get caught up in hire 23 employees. with their sons Brody age 10, the bubble that you are in and The business also saw an in- Dylan, 7, Logan, 4, and Ethan, 2. Avoiding the your professional career and then crease in support when the Grif- holiday blues By Alphonso Gibbs Jr. Tea bar a space to unwind and commune FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST The six weeks encompassing Thanksgiving, Christ- By Ashleigh Fields mas, and New Year’s—collectively called “the holi- FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST days”—are for most, a magically unique The Pauline Tea Bar Apothecary is time of year, filled with holiday carols, a space that embraces every soul reunions, displays of colorful lights, that enters with savory tea and love, and affection, often expressed soothing therapy upon request. through gift giving. It is a place where every emotion For the better part of 2020, we have evoked is welcomed to be ex- all been impacted by the Covid-19 pan- pressed, which was the goal of demic, the stresses brought on by racial owner Sherry Waters. Gibbs tensions, and the political dramas of the The bar was named in honor of 2020 election. Now, we have to make Waters’ grandmothers, Pauline and hard decisions on whether to gather with our loved Lena, whose peaceful presence al- ones for the holidays, or continue to socially dis- ways seemed to offer transfor- tance from them until we get the all clear. mative restoration. In part because For some, the holidays bring hurt. Caused by fac- of their steadfast spirits which drew tors such as those already mentioned, along with the strength from the Bible. weather (seasonal depression); extended separation, Like the Pauline circle of friends death, financial stress, unemployment, unrealistic that the Apostle Paul encounters expectations, hyper-sentimentality, guilt, or over- throughout his ministry the tea bar spending. Holiday depression—also called the “holi- was structurally created to be an SHERRY WATERS VIA TWITTER day blues”—can zap the merriment out of even the open invitation for communal fel- Sherry Waters is owner of Pauline Tea Bar Apothecary. most wonderful time of the year. Now, one must lowship with God, engaging in acts gatherings it also accepts much An Asheville native with a bach- make hard decisions on whether to visit, whom to of hospitality and love. While the needed conversations at the Pauline elor’s degree in communications visit, and how to prepare for the visit—such as get- space has been used to host bible fellowship table which almost al- from UNC Chapel Hill, a certification studies, birthday parties, and artist Please see AVOIDING| 4B ways include Waters. Please see TEA| 2B

«RIDES Presto, change-oh! Kia redesigns Optima into the sporty K5 By Winfred Cross All K5s at least look like quietly. The eight-speed trim pieces that are a bit SPECIAL TO THE POST my test car. Aside from a transmission is buttery and chintzy. Overall, it gets an color that looked like kicks down quickly when A-, being stylish and com- What’s in a name? Not primer instead of paint asked. It does not drive as fortable. The cloth and much if you are Kia. (which is popular with the sporty as it looks but also leather seats are easy on It’s redesigned the very young folk) it’s a stunning doesn’t disappoint. the body and offer good popular Optima so much design. You will not get this Steering and braking are support if you want to do it’s unrecognizable – in- car mixed with anything good but with the AWD the some mildly aggressive cluding the name. It’s now but another Kia. The roof- handling is a bit better than driving. The dash is config- the K5 with bold sporty line slopes like a hatchback average. It handles wet urable and features live styling that keeps the com- coupe but it is a comfy five weather as nicely as well as camera shots on the left pany’s winning streak passenger sedan. The de- dry. It can help bail you out and the right when you put going. sign screams sleek, sophis- if you get a bit too aggres- on corresponding turn sig- The K5 is available in five ticated GT. sive as well. nals. And yes, there is KIA trim lines which include My test car was the GT- The K5 is quite on the blindspot indication as The 2021 Kia K5 is a redesign of the popular Optima. the LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX Line which I’m hearing is road, delivering a comfort- well. All K5s come with for- because of the roof. The Apple CarPlay and Android and GT. My test car was an the most popular trim. Its able and pleasant ride. It ward collision mitigation, panoramic sunroof option Auto, rear cross traffic alert amalgamation of all of looks are more sporty, but takes a good bit to dimin- lane keeping system and makes headroom even and keyless entry with these, even including the the vehicle doesn’t get the ish ride quality so gen- driver attention warning. tighter but the view is spec- pushbutton start. optional all-wheel drive 290 horsepower engine erally, you should be This feature senses if you tacular. The options list on my which should be available from the GT. Nope, you pleased. appear fatigued. The K5 comes with a car seemed to be generous art the time of writing. My have to settle for the stan- The interior looks famil- Five folks fit comfortably, plethora of standard fea- as well. One of my favorites car was part of a press in- dard 180 horsepower 1.6- iar because it is very close but rear passenger may tures which includes 18- is smart cruise which main- troduction, so features are liter turbo which gets the to the Hyundai Sonata have to negotiate the slop- inch wheels, fog light, tains a set distance be- not necessarily available job done nicely. The engine which was also revised. ing roof to enter and exit. leather-wrapped steering tween cars, slows down for purchase grouped as delivers its power The level of refinement is Headroom could also be a wheel, USB ports in the with traffic and comes to a such. smoothly and fairly high but there are a few problem for tall passenger rear, keyless entry, wireless Please see PRESTO| 2B 2B LIFE | The Charlotte Post Thursday, December 17, 2020 College consortium fosters racial healing Continued from page 1B said. does not come from the initial grant The fellows will also explore Char- funding lotte’s history of racism and how it “This is about changing your envi- pertains to each institution. The ronment that you are in,” Herring spring semester will culminate in stu- said. “The thing that we are teaching dent-led projects intended to foster the students at this point is the way racial healing and transformation. you change is to start change in your “What I’m looking forward to is just space. You have to have these skills to interacting with different people,” be able to do that. If we are all chang- said Seward, a political science major. ing our space, then our spaces are “I feel like we all collectively stay in going to connect at some point in our own little circles to where every- time.” one around you agrees and believes JCSU sophomore Isys Seward and with everything you, because that is BRANDPOINT junior Kenneth Hagler II are among just human nature—you go toward Simple skin care activities can prevent damage during the winter. the school’s six fellows whose year- people who are like you. It’s more long fellowship began with racial heal- about putting yourself in uncomfort- ing circles during the fall semester. able positions to where you can think The circles are group interventions outside the box.” Five simple tips to keep the designed to create spaces where The goal is to expand the work bey- people share experiences, using sto- ond the current cohorts to include rytelling to encourage racial equity community members and administra- glow in skin during winter and healing. Students have been tions of each institution. meeting via Zoom due to the pan- “You have to know how and when to BRANDPOINT efficacy you and your skin ducts you put on your demic. Hagler, a social work major, is engage people in this information, be- Plummeting tempera- crave, for less. skin. Dewy skin starts from working to hone his skillset. cause if you engage people in this in- tures and whipping winds Check out these tips to within - after all, your skin “It’s the skill, it’s the language and formation in the wrong way and they are here for much of the keep your skin healthy and contains 64% water. Drink- then it’s also being sensitive to the are not ready for it, you are going to country, and no matter glowing on a budget all ing plenty of water helps moments, and understanding that push them off, and you are going to where you live, cooler and winter long, including sug- minimize dry skin that be- there are moments, but you just have create more adversity to the process,” drier winter air can really gestions from board-certi- comes more noticeable to be cognizant and strategic about Herring said. “Being skillful at that is wreak havoc on your skin. fied dermatologist Dr. when it gets cold outside. how to enter into those moments going to be a major thing that is going When humidity is lower Sabrina Fabi. As a rule of thumb, you when they become available,” Hagler to help us change.” and indoor heat is on full 1. Find a glow serum at should drink at least half blast, your skin gets the drugstore your body weight in stripped of the moisture it Sometimes a moisturizer ounces of water every day. needs, causing dryness is just not enough. "When To make your fluid intake and dullness. your complexion is dulling, more enjoyable, try adding All these factors can ex- adding a lightweight serum sliced fruit to your iced Presto, change-oh! Kia turns acerbate the visible signs with vitamin C to your rou- water, or having a mug of of aging, from loss of elas- tine can give skin the boost hot tea when you're feeling ticity to lines and wrinkles. it needs to rebuild glow chilled. Optima into the sporty K5 There are natural oils al- and instantly look more lu- 3. Cleanse, don't strip Continued from page 1B keep an eye on this com- • Comfortable ride ready in healthy skin that minous," says Fabi. After a cold or long day, complete stop if necessary. pany. This is a family • Quiet cabin help create a protective RoC Multi Correxion Re- you might be tempted to Once traffic starts to move, sedan that aims to put the • Buttery transmission barrier, but this time of vive + Glow Daily Serum is hop into a long, hot so do you. competition in its rearview • Lots of options year, extra TLC is essential a new option that helps shower. It'll warm you up, Kia has another hit on its mirror. Cons: to combatting both aging with radiance and firm- but it won't do your skin hands. Standard equip- Pros: • Low rear roof line and the changing elements ness, with the bonus bene- any favors. "Hot water ment is generous across • Bold, contemporary • Bigger engine only - and you don't need to fit of reducing fine lines breaks down barriers in the trim lines and the ex- styling available on GT spend a fortune to make and wrinkles. your skin and takes away ecution of this revamp is • Great interior Email Winfred Cross at that happen. "What I like about this moisture," says Fabi. nearly flawless. Honda, • Generous standard [email protected]. Your lightweight mois- serum is the potency of the Aim to get in and out of Toyota Mazda and even equipment turizers and oil-free vitamin C. It has a 10% Ac- the shower as fast as you Ford and Chevy need to • Polished handling cleansers work well in tive Vitamin C + Peptide can, using lukewarm water. summer, but winter blend and it works fast, de- Skip the soap or try a gen- months call for a refresh if livering both instant re- tle cleanser. As soon as you want to maintain a sults and longer-term you're done, pat dry and glowing, youthful com- benefits after four weeks apply a moisturizing Tea bar makes space to unwind plexion. Whatever ele- of using it," Fabi adds. "You cream immediately to pre- Continued from page 1B therapy that she keeps things peaceful. ments you're facing, now is can easily find it at vent your skin from itching in nonprofit management from Duke Uni- Those looking for a chance to woosah a good time to re-examine Target.com for under $25, and flaking. If you're still versity and a master’s degree in practical amidst a busy life can certainly find ref- your skincare shelf and up- and I think the results rival feeling dry, consider in- theology/pastoral counseling from uge within the walls. date daily habits. You can if not exceed some of the vesting in a humidifier to Pfeiffer University, Waters brings an ex- The tea bar is located at 2326 Arty Ave. swap in cost-effective solu- other expensive vitamin C add moisture to your tremely diverse perspective. However, it in Camp Greene. tions that offer the luxu- options out there." home's air. is through herbal tea, prayer and aroma- rious experience and 2. Hydrate from within 4. Moisturize and protect It's not just about pro- Please see FIVE | 4B

Publix helps alleviate hunger. See how Publix, our customers, and Publix Charities help the hungry in our communities at publix.com/goodtogether. 3B LIFE | The Charlotte Post Thursday, December 17, 2020

Moving forward as a community The pandemic and humanitarian crisis has brought us together with intensified passion and resilience. At Bank of America, we remain focused on supporting the well-being of our teammates, providing the essential financial services our clients need and helping local communities across the country move forward.

Here in Charlotte, we’ve donated masks to local partners to distribute to those most at risk. We’ve provided lending to local small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help strengthen our local economy. And we continue to partner with local nonprofits and organizations that are working to advance racial equality and economic opportunity in the communities we serve.

We’re grateful for our employees, who have worked tirelessly to support our clients. And we are especially grateful to the healthcare and essential workers who have helped Charlotte recover.

My teammates and I remain fully committed to the work to come in 2021 and beyond.

Charles Bowman Charlotte Market President

Working together Grateful for our partners in Charlotte who gave our community support when it needed it most. More than 1 million masks distributed through state and Mecklenburg County resources, as well as part of a broad community effort with Atrium Health, the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council (CELC), and other local organizations. 4,526 PPP small business client loans totaling $295 million Bank of America employees

To learn more, please visit bankofamerica.com/community

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. 4B LIFE | The Charlotte Post Thursday, December 17, 2020 Avoiding the holiday blues Five simple tips to keep requires attention to details the glow in winter skin Continued from page 1B do or don’t need from history, meaning, and sig- ting a COVID-19 screen them. Most people truly nificance of holiday cele- Continued from page 2B gentle exfoliation is also crucial to get- prior to the visit. want to help but they often brations. Step back, slow Moisturizing your skin starts with ting your glow. Buff away flaky dead The "holiday blues” only don’t know what to do or down, and refocus on tran- finding the right product. Swap your skin cells so new ones have a chance seem to get worse as we say. scendent, eternal matters. summer formula for a thicker, more to shine. Chemical exfoliators with near the end of the year. 7. Bury the hatchet. Per- Rededicate yourself to hydrating consistency. There's no alpha hydroxy acids also help im- Holiday depression af- fect families don’t magi- spiritual pursuits, such as need to spend money on several ex- prove the effectiveness of your mois- fects one million people cally appear during the church attendance, church pensive products. Look for an all-in- turizer. When those dead skin cells every year. Men and holidays, but family con- work, prayer life, and other one formula with ingredients like aren't in the way, your skin will absorb women, young and old, all flicts can. Letting go and disciplines. Regain the hyaluronic acid to draw water into the and retain more moisture. fall victim to feelings of forgiving can help heal focus originally intended skin, and glycerin or dimethicone to Winter is here, but your skin doesn't sadness, loneliness, anx- past wounds. by this time of year. help retain moisture and protect it have to pay the price. Follow these iety, guilt, and fatigue dur- Additionally, family Every day, veterans who from the elements. tips to stay within your budget and ing this emotionally feuds can be deliberately served in the Army, Marine 5. Gently exfoliate achieve the glowing, more youthful charged time. set aside until after the Corps, Navy, Air Force, and In between all that moisturizing, look you desire. Men’s Health Network high-tension holidays in Coast Guard connect with offers the following 10 order to facilitate every- proven resources and ef- suggestions to help you one’s peace and enjoyment fective treatments for de- identify and ward off—or at this special—but chal- pression and find solutions at least better cope with— lenging—time. that improve their lives. It potential sources of holi- 8. Start your own tradi- can be difficult to handle day depression. tions. Families and tradi- depression on your own, 1. Acknowledge that tions both change with so talking to your family you’re hurting. Others may time. (Every tradition had and friends can be a first expect certain attitudes to start somewhere, right? step. You can also consider and behaviors from you Rather than reminiscing connecting with: that you may not feel. The over the good old days,ac- • Your doctor. Ask if your retail industry’s “holiday cept the fact that change doctor has experience hype” presents an overly may be necessary, grasp treating Veterans or can sentimental, nostalgic, and the season as it is now, refer you to someone who even imaginary notion of look forward to the future, does. If you feel comfort- the holidays (usually to try and create your own family able enough with your to sell you something). Sill, traditions that can be en- physician, he or she may feelings of sadness, loneli- joyed and even preserved be able to help you find ness, or depression don’t for future generations. tools to manage loss of in- automatically vanish just This is the year of Zoom terest or pleasure even because it’s the holidays. meetings, online parties, without direct experience Acknowledge your pain, be and other virtual gath- with veterans. open and honest with erings. They are much • A mental health profes- others, refuse to feel guilty, cheaper, safer, and easier sional, such as a therapist and get help if necessary. to organize than traveling. • Your local VA Medical It’s OK to laugh. Don’t be 9. Keep your alcohol in- Center or Vet Center. VA afraid! You won’t be struck take low. Don’t pour gaso- specializes in the care and by a bolt of lightning for line on a fire. Remember, treatment of veterans. laughing. Remember, a alcohol has a depressive • Spiritual or religious closed mouth won’t get effect on your nervous sys- adviser fed. tem and your mood, so if Resources and helplines 2. Have a plan to deal you’re experiencing the Substance Abuse & Men- with your feelings. Try to holiday blues, drinking too tal Health Services Admin- surround yourself with much alcohol will make ev- istration people who care about and erything worse. 800-662-HELP (4357) support you—family, 10. Rededicate yourself www.samhsa.gov friends, or church to your spirituality. The National Suicide Preven- members. Exercise pro- “reason for the season” is tion Lifeline grams (aerobic activities often swallowed up by 800-273-TALK (8255) such as walking, running, maddening materialism www.suicideprevention- cycling, etc.) are rec- that can distract from the lifeline.org ommended because of their mood-elevating abil- «OBITUARY ity). If necessary, see your doctor or therapist. And Bobby Joe Cornett learn to say “no.” Others’ August 30, 1948 – expectations are not a rea- December 9, 2020 son for your own mental Born and raised in Louisville, KY. health to suffer. Bobby retired from Philip Morris 3. Set realistic expecta- USA-Lvl (Altria) with 32+ years tions. Keep your expecta- of service and then relocated to tions realistic rather than Charlotte during the summer of perfectionistic. Prioritize 2000. and reduce self-imposed Bobby was a substitute math GETTY IMAGES holiday preparations. Del- egate responsibilities. Real- teacher and golf coach at James Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream. istically plan your budget, Martin Middle School. In 2005, spending, and shopping. he and his wife opened The UPS Do less and enjoy more. Store at Concord Mills. For a short time, they also owned a Celebrate the holidays with Obsessing over endless de- second UPS Store in Davidson, but closed it in 2011. tails is bound to change He was a proud member of Friendship Missionary Baptist this long-awaited, once-a- Church. He leaves behind to cherish his memory: a wife, year season from a time of Karen Cooper Cornett; daughter, Erin Rose Cornett-Strewe a delectable gingerbread exuberance to one of ex- (Christian); son, Dondi Joe Cornett; two sisters, a niece, FAMILY FEATURES 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, among muffin cups, filling haustion. Make it a point to two nephews and a host of cousins and friends. be honest with yourself, With so many traditions softened each about 3/4 full. Bake In lieu of fl owers, the family requests donations be made and if necessary and pos- and ways to celebrate the 2 teaspoons vanilla ex- 30 minutes, or until tooth- to American Heart Association or American Diabetes sible, limit the time and sit- holiday season, the op- tract pick inserted in center cup- Association. uations/people you want tions are nearly endless for 4 cups powdered sugar cake comes out clean or to be around. When you’ve The funeral will be held in Louisville, KY, Friday, Dec. 18., families looking to spend 2-4 tablespoons heavy with moist crumbs. Let had enough of either, make noon. Contact the AD Porter Funeral Home, 1300 W. special moments together. whipping cream cupcakes cool 10 minutes sure that you have a way to Chestnut St. or visit www.adporters.com for details. One of the tastiest and 1 pinch salt then transfer to wire rack leave or step away. most enjoyable activities cinnamon, for topping to cool completely. 4. Take time for yourself. you can engage in with Adjust oven rack to To make whipped vanilla Why is it called holiday de- family and friends is to lower-middle position and buttercream: In large bowl pression? Because, for team up and create sweet preheat oven to 350 F. Line of stand mixer, beat butter people who suffer from it, eats in the kitchen. muffin pan with cupcake on medium-high speed the negative feelings don’t Whether you’re a choco- liners. Set aside. until light and fluffy, about occur at other times of the late lover or prefer tradi- To make cupcakes: In 3 minutes. Add vanilla and, year. Remind yourself of tional seasonal flavors like medium bowl, whisk flour, with mixer on low, slowly what you enjoyed during peppermint and ginger- ginger, cinnamon, cloves, add in powdered sugar, the previous months, then bread, you can turn to nutmeg and salt. cream and salt, scraping continue those things dur- these Gingerbread Cup- In large bowl of stand down sides of bowl as ing the holidays. Make cakes with Whipped Va- mixer, cream butter and needed. Once incorpo- yourself a priority! Instead nilla Buttercream from sugar until light and fluffy, rated, whip frosting at least of a “Discount Double Milk Means More to tingle about 3 minutes. Add mo- 3 minutes on medium-high Check,” give yourself an taste buds while bringing lasses and beat until incor- or high speed. If frosting is “Emotional Double Check”. everyone together. porated. Beat in eggs, one too thick, gradually beat in Give yourself permission Find more ways to cele- at a time, then beat in va- additional cream. Pipe on to feel what you feel—just brate the season with nilla. Add flour mixture top of cooled cupcakes and don’t stay there too long. sweet eats at milkmeans- and mix on low speed until sprinkle with cinnamon. Getting enough rest, eating more.org. just combined. Source: United Dairy In- and drinking in modera- Gingerbread Cupcakes Divide batter evenly dustry of Michigan tion, exercising, and con- with Whipped Vanilla But- tinuing other favorite tercream activities can maintain nor- Recipe courtesy of Megan malcy, routine, control, Gundy of “What Megan’s and predictability. Making” on behalf of Milk * Rich In 5. Consider that your de- Means More FREE Shipping & 33% OFF Vitamin C pression may actually be Prep time: 10 minutes caused by this time of year. 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Place your classified ad today! BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! www.thecharlottepost.com/ We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip Submit_CLFD flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 877-898-3840 The Charlotte Post a&e THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2020 PAGE 6B Gantt adds homegrown executive By Ashley Mahoney [email protected] ASHLEY MAHONEY | THE CHARLOTTE POST December is a homecoming of sorts A mural in Historic West End is part of “Intergalactic Soul’s” Afro-futuristic expansion across the city. for Sophia Matthews Partlow. The Charlotte native grew up attend- ing camps at the Afro-American Cul- tural Center in First Ward, which moved to Second Ward in 2009 to a new facility and is now the Harvey B. ‘Intergalactic Soul’ Gantt Center for African- American Arts + Culture. She assumed the role of vice president, communi- cations and technology in- novation at Gantt Center moves to West End on Dec. 1. “I credit the Afro-Ameri- Partlow can Cultural Center with Charlotte-born Afro-futuristic movement adds murals to artistic portfolio putting me down my artistic pathway,” graming and community engage- Partlow said. “I did a mural in high By Ashley Mahoney and Woodberry live by. ment and augmented reality and “You want them, in some way school and paintings that won state [email protected] music is really exciting.” awards, and all of that came from shape or form and as much as pos- “Intergalactic Soul” evolved into The grant was from 2018, and due classes I took and lessons I had from the sible, to feel that they own the art, murals. to streetcar construction in the area, Afro-American Cultural Center. It was and that it is theirs, which it is,” Since its creation in 2014, Char- Kiser was concerned the project amazing to see them grow with me in Woodberry said. lotte-based artists Marcus Kiser and would not be completed. J’Tanya that as I continued on in my creative While Woodberry Jason Woodberry’s Afro-futuristic ex- Adams of Historic West End and space with marketing and graphic de- and Kiser were cre- On The Net ploration of contemporary cultural, Charles Thomas of Knight Founda- sign, and to see them move into a beau- ating the first political and social themes has ap- tion were key in helping the project www.intergalac- tiful new building and continue to grow mural, a group of peared in creative spaces across the get back on track. ticsoul.com and become more modern and profes- girls at a birthday globe as well as Goodyear Arts, Har- “A bunch of things happened to fall sional like I did was really nice. party came out of a vey B. Gantt Center for African-Amer- into place in the last month or two,” “To come full circle back to this or- neighboring home. ican Arts + Culture, McColl Center for Kiser said. ganization that did so much to shape They asked to paint, but Arts + Innovation, and Duke Energy The first mural will feature aug- me is incredible.” because the mural is behind a fence Theatre at Spirit Square. mented reality through interactive Partlow, an Independence High School on an abandoned building and re- It includes physical creations, Afrofuturistic text. Their text was alumna, has been involved with Char- quired a lift, the artists could not let

spoken word and music with fellow first displayed at Portal Charlotte, lotte’s creative scene for years. Her time them. Instead, they found a way to creative Quentin Talley. Now a and later at UNC Chapel Hill’s Ack- at the Afro-American Cultural Center in- include them by painting four stars – Knight Foundation grant allowed land Art Museum in “Project LHAXX.” cluded jazz band, which inspired her to representing each child – so that

Kiser and Woodberry to create the Adams wanted a quote from a histo- continue with music. every time they pass the mural, they first “Intergalactic Soul” murals off ric Black figure, and the AR will reveal “Even after I got out of school, I still can look at it and see a reflection of West Trade Street across from a quote from James Baldwin reading, continued with rap music and singing,” themselves. Johnson C. Smith University’s Arts “not everything that is faced can be “ she said. “That made my day,” Woodberry Factory. changed, but nothing can be changed Partlow previously spent seven years said. “Maybe it’s also me being a “‘Intergalactic Soul’ is like our until it is faced.” with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, father, but I just thought it was the baby,” Kiser said. “To see it be able Public art as a service to the com- most recently as director of digital out- coolest thing ever.” to morph into public art and pro- munity it resides in is a code Kiser reach. Then she decided to job hunt during a pandemic, which she ques- tioned herself. Yet Partlow felt her skills ‘Intergalactic Soul’ is like our baby. To see it be able to morph into and education – a bachelor’s degree in public art and programming and community engagement and marketing and master’s in informatics from UNC Charlotte – could be better augmented reality and music is really exciting. utilized than they were at CMS. She saw an opening at the Gantt Center for a Artist MARCUS KISER marketing director, which is what she initially applied for, but when center leaders saw her resume, they thought she would also be a good fit for technol- “ ogy innovation based on her experience with data science and analytics. Ho- Kurtis Blow recovering from heart transplant wever, Partlow’s heart was in market- ing. By Stacy M. Brown After three interviews for the market- NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION ing position, Partlow underwent ad- Hip-Hop icon Kurtis Blow recently un- ditional interviews for the technology derwent heart transplant surgery in Los role as well. Angeles, his wife of four decades told “Basically, I interviewed for two jobs,” Black Press USA. Partlow said, laughing. “I am very happy “We give all glory to God for the per- they felt confident that I could maintain fect heart and transplant,” Shirley both responsibilities and that is when Walker said. they decided to put the two jobs to- On Dec. 7, she texted, “He is out of gether. It’s been phenomenal thus far.” surgery. Keep the prayers and praises The COVID-19 pandemic forced cul- up. God does all things well.” tural institutions like the Gantt Center The rap star, whose real name is Kur- to close for months, leaving them to ex- tis Walker, has a history of heart ail- plore new ways to create engagement in ments. virtual spaces. The Gantt leveraged dig- After recovering in 2019 from sur- ital media to engage and inform the gery to repair an aortic artery, the Black community as it was hit harder by music pioneer was rushed back onto the disease economically and physically the operating table for a second proce- NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION by introducing a series called “Un- dure. Hip hop legend Kurtis Blow is recovering from heart transplant surgery. masked” on YouTube live. They took Shirley Walker said she believed the the same approach when civil unrest surgery went well, as she remained at Blow was honored for video innova- classic. spread across Charlotte over the the hospital with her husband. tion with an MTV Monitor Award in The icon is also responsible for rap summer in response to police brutality. A true legend, Kurtis Blow was just 20 1985 for his hit, “America,” an album hits by The Fat Boys and Run DMC, The Gantt Center is open again, but when he became the first rap star that included the huge single, “If I whose lead star, Joseph “Run” Sim- Partlow’s role will encompass navigat- signed by a major label. Mercury re- Ruled the World.” mons, began his career as “The son of ing the lingering ramifications of the leased “Christmas Rappin,” and it sold A short time later, Blow and Dexter Kurtis Blow.” pandemic. more than 400,000 copies and became Scott King were selected to coordinate Recently, Blow has worked to help “They are in a place where they are an annual classic. the song “King Holiday,” to celebrate Rocky Bucano, former Def Jam Pres- looking to ensure that they are prepared Its gold follow-up “The Breaks” Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday. The ident Carmen Ashhurst, and others for the things that are coming,” she helped ignite a still?spreading inter- Mercury/Polygram single co-produced with work on the Universal Hip Hop said. “Even though we have vaccines national “Rap Attack.” by Blow included Whitney Houston, Museum, which breaks ground this coming out, it might still be a very long He released 10 albums over 11 years, New Edition, Stephanie Mills, El De- month in New York. time in which we have to operate digi- including the self-titled “Kurtis Blow,” barge, James “JT” Taylor of Kool & the “Prayers work,” Shirley Walker said, tally and virtually. They felt it was really “Party Time,” “8 Million Stories,” “AJ,” Gang, The Fat Boys, and Run DMC. noting that she’s optimistic for her hus- important to not only be able to navi- and “Basketball.” It also has become an annual holiday band’s recovery. gate that space very proficiently, but they wanted to also again be prepared for the future.” Partlow will focus on helping the Gantt expand its reach as a community, ‘Leaving Neverland’ fight heads to arbitration corporate and educational space. She is By Andrew Dalton largely shielded from public view, had performed their parts of the agree- focusing on programs to start, and one though Jackson attorneys said in court ment. HBO has also more generally de- THE ASSOCIATED PRESS goal is to create a discussion board for filings that they would like for them to fended “Leaving Neverland” as a valid parents raising Black children to foster PASADENA, Calif. — A federal appeals be as open as possible and sought pri- and important piece of documentary a sense of community, while also cre- court ruled Monday that a lawsuit filed vate arbitration because it was the only journalism. ating a captive audience. by the Michael Jackson estate over an way available to sue under the contract. HBO representative Karen Jones did “Whether you are Black yourself or HBO documentary about two of the late The decades-old agreement to put a not immediately respond to an email not, it really does not matter,” Partlow pop star’s sex abuse ac- Jackson concert on HBO required that seeking comment on the decision. said. “How do we create a village cusers can go forward in the cable channel not disparage Jack- Jackson’s estate and family have said around all of our Black children and see private arbitration. son, which the lawsuit says it did by the documentary’s allegations are false how we can better support them A three-judge panel of airing the molestation allegations of and came from two men who pre- through better parenting and more in- the 9th U.S. Circuit Court Wade Robson and James Safechuck in viously told authorities they were not volved parenting. You will have a re- of Appeals agreed with “Leaving Neverland.” molested. source to see how other parents are two lower courts and “In the court’s own words, HBO In separate cases, Safechuck and Rob- navigating parenting.” ruled in favor of the Jack- ‘agreed that it would not make any dis- son sued two corporations created by Partlow hopes that the Gantt Center son estate in its decision paraging remarks concerning Jack- Jackson over their allegations. Jackson will off the same opportunities to create on “Leaving Neverland.” son,’” estate attorneys Howard Safechuck’s lawsuit was dismissed a sense of love and appreciation for the Unless there are further Weitzman and Jonathan Steinsapir said last month. arts in her daughter, Cloud, whom she appeals, the case will go to a private ar- in a statement. “It’s time for HBO to an- “Leaving Neverland” director Dan and her husband Chris are in the pro- bitrator, which the Jackson estate swer for its violation of its obligations Reed has been filming the hearings in cess of formally adopting. They have argued was required by the 1992 con- to Michael Jackson.” those cases for a follow-up documen- been her foster parents since she was tract at the center of the lawsuit. HBO had argued that the provision tary. Please see GANTT CENTER | 7B That means the proceedings will be was no longer valid because both sides Jackson died in 2009 at age 50. 7B A&E | The Charlotte Post Thursday, December 17, 2020 «OUT & ABOUT PHOTOS BY DANIEL COSTON | FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST Gantt Center adds Partlow as homegrown executive Continued from page 6B York who worked with Center is named. Sonja two days old. filmmaker Spike Lee. Gantt’s experience was the “I would love it if she had In addition to coming same—her father was also opportunities to come and from a family of creatives, the first Black student to meet other kids,” Partlow Partlow’s grandfather is attend Clemson University. said. “As the discussion Charlotte Civil Rights activ- “Because of their nature, group gets off the ground, ist Reverend William Wors- you end up learning about that could be like a set ley, Jr., who served at First them from other folks or playgroup for her.” Presbyterian on Seventh outside people, and that is She is also working on Street for decades. Her exactly what it was like her debut novel, “Frac- grandfather was also a Ma- growing up in my house tured,” with the intention rine during World War II, too,” Partlow said. “It puts of turning it into a five- which was segregated at an onus on me to carry that book series. The genre is that time. He served with mantle a little bit, and to science fiction, and the the Montford Point Ma- have the same level of care Quentin Talley was among the performers at the Acoustic Grace show, held at the former series is intended for rines, who received the and stewardship of the Grace AME Zion Church in the Brooklyn neighborhood on Dec. 10. adults. The goal is to finish Congressional Gold Medal works they have done. At the first book before 2022. in 2011 from former pres- the same time, it is hard to “I feel like I have a really ident Barack Obama. get that story from them. I good pedigree when it “Nobody ever really let am really excited to maybe comes to writing,” said you know just how much meet Harvey Gantt one day Partlow, whose mother he had done, just because and try to make some sort Marie Worsley Matthews is of the type of people they of effort so that when you a published poet and Eng- are—they are so humble,” walk into the Gantt Center, lish teacher at Independ- Partlow said. that’s the first thing you ence High School. Partlow recalled reaching see, is who is this building Partlow’s younger out to her friend Sonja named after and why?” brother, Chris Matthews, is Gantt, executive director of On the Net: author of “Finding Your Re- the CMS Foundation and www.ganttcenter.org lationship Fix.” Older daughter to Charlotte’s For more information brother Dazzell Matthews first Black Mayor Harvey about her novel: is a videographer in New Gantt, for whom the Gantt www.fracturednovel.com Jay-Z’s new role: Publisher By Hillel Italie oir, criticism and biogra- and literary chroniclers — phy. to create beautifully THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Future releases will in- written and produced Tyler McKenzie, a Charlotte native recently seen in the national touring company of Hamilton, clude a book by Meek Mill works that will entertain NEW YORK — A decade returned home to be a part of an all-day theater class and performance at Spirit Square on after publishing his mem- on “criminal justice and and enthrall readers, but Dec. 12. oir “Decoded,” Jay-Z is survival,” memoirs by also illuminate critical is- forming a more lasting rappers Yo Gotti and Fat sues,” Jackson, who pub- partnership with the book Joe and fantasy fiction lished “Decoded” and has industry. from rapper Lil Uzi Vert, worked with Ta-Nehisi Roc Nation, the entertain- along with everything from Coates and Ibram X. Kendi ment company founded by cookbooks to children’s among others, said in a the rapper, is starting an stories. statement. imprint with Random Roc Lit 101 will be led by Fleishman said in a state- House called Roc Lit 101. Chris Jackson, the pub- ment that “There are so In a joint announcement lisher and editor-in-chief of many untold stories and Tuesday, Random House the Random House imprint we consider it a true privi- and Roc Nation promised One World and a recent re- lege to be able to amplify “books at the dynamic in- cipient of a lifetime diverse voices while ex- tersection of entertain- achievement award from ploring the uncharted ment and genre-defying the Center for Fiction; and worlds that are about to literature.” Among the ini- Jana Fleishman, executive open to us.” tial releases for next vice president of Roc Na- Random House declined summer: “Till the End,” a tion. comment when asked if memoir by the retired “Our aspiration for the Jay-Z himself might pub- pitching star CC Sabathia; imprint is to create books lish a book through Roc Lit and music journalist Da- that draw from the best of 101, or if Beyoncé might nyel Smith’s “Shine Bright,” pop culture— its most publish through the new a story of Black women in imaginative and talented imprint. music that combines mem- storytellers, innovators, Popular local R&B singer Cyanca performed a livestream concert at Neighborhood Theatre on Dec. 2.

Make Sunday Dinner special. Find new recipes to perfect your meal at publix.com/sundaydinners. 8B A&E | The Charlotte Post Thursday, December 17, 2020

When every day can be a challenge, we’re here to give you strength.

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