Bring on the Bogos. Nothing Beats a Great Deal

The Charlotte Post Life! THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021 SECTION B

NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION Singer and entrepreneur Rihanna’s worth is estimated at $1.7 billion, according to Forbes magazine. GETTY IMAGES Pop singer tops Parents should catch up on doctor visits and vaccinations for children to lower the risk of communicable disease. $1 billion mark Missing wellness visits in net worth put kids more at risk for By Stacy M. Brown NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION You can call her Ri-Ri, wear her Savage X lingerie or Fenty perfume. And Rihanna wouldn’t mind. communicable diseases But the pop superstar and business mogul prob- ably doesn’t mind anyone calling her a billionaire. By Nadia Ramlagan from communicable diseases such child on track to stay healthy and According to Forbes magazine, the 33-year-old Bar- NORTH CAROLINA NEWS SERVICE as measles. safe. badian beauty has achieved billionaire status. RALEIGH – Parents should catch “Vaccines are absolutely impor- “The pediatrician will make sure With an estimated net worth of $1.7 billion, the their kids up on missed doctor tant for kids of all ages,” Hudgins that you’re up-to-date on your vac- Grammy winner now counts as the wealthiest female visits, and in some cases, vaccina- asserted. “And they are a great cines, but will also check in on musician globally. tions, to protect themselves and way to keep kids safe, in school growth and development and The “Work” singer only trails Oprah Winfrey as the their communities before they re- and out of school.” your child’s mental health, and world’s richest entertainer. turn to school, according to a new The report showed visits to pro- make sure that chronic diseases “A lot of women felt there were no lines out there report by the American Academy viders’ offices fell by 58% for all are taken care of,” Beers said. “So, that catered to their skin tone. It was light, medium, of Pediatrics and the Georgetown age groups in March of last year, there’s lots and lots of reasons to medium-dark, dark,” Shannon Coyne, co-founder of University Health Policy Institute. and visits for toddlers dropped get back to your pediatrician consumer products consultancy Bluestock Advisors, Earlier this year, the Centers for 75%, the largest decline by any age now.” told Forbes. Disease Control and Prevention re- group. Some parents don’t immu- According to the North Carolina “We all know that’s not reality. She was one of the ported orders for all non-influenza nize children for religious rea- Area Health Education Centers, first brands that came out and said, ‘I want to speak childhood vaccines had decreased sons, while others worry about some pediatricians have allowed to all of those different people.’” by around 11 million doses, a di- potential health risks of some vac- sibling well-child visits, so parents Born Robyn Rihanna Fenty on February 20, 1988, rect result of fewer pediatric visits. cines, although those are reported only have to come into the office in Saint Michael, Barbados, the performer delivered Elizabeth Hudgins, executive di- to be extremely rare. once instead of twice or more, and Please see RIHANNA |2B rector of the North Carolina Pedi- Dr. Lee Beers, president of the have implemented more consis- atric Society, said it could put American Academy of Pediatrics, tent schedules for telehealth visits Campaign touts the more kids at risk for becoming ill explained well visits can set a and in-person follow-up. effectiveness of doctor visitation Research finds widening educational BRANDPOINT Best known for his roles in “Roots” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and helming “Reading Rain- inequality in year of COVID learning bow,” actor, director and longtime health advocate LeVar Burton strongly believes in using his voice and NATIONAL NEWSPAPER pre-pandemic trends. passion for storytelling to help others. PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION • 2020-21 outcomes Recently, Burton, who has spent much of his career PORTLAND, Ore. — were lower relative to his- bringing stories to life, has taken on a new role. He Northwest Evaluation As- toric trends. Gains across has teamed up with Incyte on a timely health initia- sociation — a not-for- 2020-21 were at a lower tive called “You Have to Go to Know,” which aims to profit, research and rate and students ended elevate the voices and stories of people living with educational services pro- the year with lower levels and impacted by myeloproliferative neoplasms, a vider serving K-12 stu- of achievement compared group of rare, chronic blood cancers. Burton hopes dents — has released new to a typical year, with to encourage the MPN community to put their health research that highlights a larger declines in math (8 first by seeking the care they need. challenging year in educa- to 12 percentile points) "When I learned people have been hesitant to visit tion with most students than in reading (3 to 6 per- their healthcare providers during the past year and making lower-than-typical centile points). NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION a half, I felt compelled to use my voice. In particular, learning gains in math and • Achievement was lower The pandemic has widened learning gaps for U.S. students. I learned that people with rare blood cancers called reading. for all student groups in myeloproliferative neoplasms or MPNs, may have The research examined 2020-21; historically un- and its impact on every more likely to receive vir- been particularly impacted and could benefit from MAP Growth assessment derserved students (e.g., facet of our lives, this new tual instruction but less re-prioritizing their health and visiting their health- scores from 5.5 million American Indian and Alas- research from NWEA illu- likely to have access to suf- care providers," said Burton. U.S. public school students kan Native, Black, and La- minates just how devastat- ficient broadband and de- The three most common MPNs are polycythemia in grades 3-8 between fall tino and/or students in ing the academic vices necessary to access vera, myelofibrosis and essential thrombocythemia, 2020 and spring 2021 and high poverty schools) were consequences have been virtual learning — have which combined affect about 200,000 people in the found: disproportionately im- for our nation’s children. borne the brunt of the pan- U.S. MPNs can affect people at any age but are more • On average, students pacted, particularly in the While all students have suf- demic’s academic burden. common in older adults. They are progressive dis- across most grades and elementary grades that fered from interrupted in- It is vital that policy- eases, meaning they can change or worsen over time, subject areas made learn- NWEA studied. struction, students of color makers, school leaders, and the best way to manage an MPN is through reg- ing gains in 2020-21, but at “As our nation continues and students from low-in- and educators act on this Please see CAMPAIGN | 2B a lower rate compared to to grapple with COVID-19 come families — who are Please see LEARNING | 2B

«RIDES Volkswagen ID.4 an electrified challenger in the SUV market By Winfred Cross new, well sorted out and oramic view of the road. quick for an electric car, SPECIAL TO THE POST has a range of about 260 Speaking of the road, I however. The ID.4 has one miles before needing a was pleasantly surprised electric motor making 201 Volkswagen’s foray into charge. That would be how well the ID.4 drives. horsepower. Most electric full-electric vehicles didn’t enough to trounce the I’d never experienced an cars have electric engines go over very well. memory of the e-Golf but all-electric vehicle before, on the front and rear The e-Golf had an unim- Volkswagen didn’t stop and I had the perception wheels and are front wheel pressive run from 2015- there, thankfully. The ID.4 they drove like golf carts. drive biased. The ID.4 is 2019 before fading from is quicker to 60 miles per Yes, I’ve driven a golf cart, rear wheel driven but does- memory. Its predecessor, hour, comfortable both but I can’t remember why. n’t have that sports car the ID.4 won’t share the front and back and has lots Anyway, the ID.4 drives feel. same fate, it’s an afford- of storage space. pretty much like a regular The ride quality is good, able electric SUV that The ID.4 is also an attrac- car. The difference is how but soft. On smooth roads pushes most of the right tive SUV, not just a hatch- it accelerates. Push the gas the car cruises along like a buttons. back. It’s nearly as roomy pedal and the ID.4 just luxury vehicle. Hit a big So, what’s the differ- as the company’s Tiguan goes and goes quickly. It bump and you get a roller ence? The e-Golf was a Golf despite being smaller. The can sprint to 60 in less than coaster effect. Yet, the car with an electric engine and ID.4 is also easy to exit and 8.0 seconds which is quick stays on course without VOLKSWAGEN limited range. The ID.4 is enter and has a nearly pan- for a small SUV. It’s not Please see VW’S | 2B Volkswagen’s ID.4 electric. Bring on the BOGOs. Nothing beats a great deal. That’s why we have lots of BOGOs on nearly every aisle! publix.com/BOGO 2B LIFE | The Charlotte Post Thursday, August 12, 2021 VW’s ID.4 challenger in electric SUV market Rihanna tops $1 billion Continued from page 1B scribed Rihanna’s rise this way: Continued from page 1B the door as you approach. the driver’s seat even hit after hit with songs like “Um- “When Robyn Fenty, known to the major deviations. Move the steering wheel in offers a massage mode. brella,” “Rude Boy,” and “Diamonds.” world as Rihanna, launched Fenty The ID.4 handles predict- tilt or telescope mode and Yes, you can ask for more With well over 100 million social Beauty in 2017, she sought to create a ably. It doesn’t inspire spir- the crystal-clear gauge power, which is coming in media followers, Rihanna’s fans have cosmetics company that made ited driving, but it is at cluster moves as well. The a 301 hp all-wheel drive pleaded with their idol to deliver new “women everywhere (feel) included.” least interesting. It’s also touch screen looks HD and model, but as is, the ID.4 is music. A perhaps unintended consequence: quiet. Wind and road noise responds to touch quickly. easily an everyday driving But with her Fenty and Savage X The beauty line has helped her enter is muted which helps the My test vehicle was the candidate. Fenty business white-hot, Rihanna ap- one of the world’s most exclusive so-so stereo system sound First Edition which was a At $45,405, the first pears to have settled in as an entre- ranks: Billionaire.” better. limited production model, edition model isn’t cheap, preneur and business magnate. Berge concluded by providing com- The ID.4 comes with It’s the Pro S trim and gra- but it's cheaper than some Cutting deals with Puma in 2014, mentary from Coyne, the consultant. about every current dient package with the ad- other EVs. Volkswagen is Dior in 2016, Fenty Beauty in 2017, “She is creating a brand outside of driver’s aid available as dition of a tow hitch, white offering free high-speed Savage X Fenty in 2018, and Fenty herself. It’s not just about Rihanna. standard. The adaptive interior accents and brake charging for two years at Skin in 2020, Rihanna kept her busi- Even if you don’t like her music, she’s cruise control worked the and accelerator pedals Electrify America charging ness-focused. created a real style in the fashion and best for me but all the aids marked pause and play. stations and two years of Forbes writer Madeline Berg de- beauty space.” were unobtrusive in opera- My biggest complaint free maintenance. The tion. about the ID.4 is the latter is mostly a feel-good Not all of the ID.4’s tech owner’s manual. Charging effort considering there was straightforward. Low- for the first time was an ex- isn’t much maintenance ering the rear windows was perience. The manual kept needed on EVs. tricky. Two switches con- referring me to different Pros: trolled both front and rear pages, then back to the ini- • Affordable family EV Learning gaps widen across US windows, depending on tial page. Once figured out, • Silent operation how hard each was charging was a breeze and • Roomy interior Continued from page 1B the pandemic, including demic, a particular focus pressed. The infotainment far cheaper than buying • Lots of tech crucial research to ensure investing in school coun- must be on ensuring that system used gestures for gas to take me 260 miles. • Plethora of driving aids that students who need the selors and nurses to ad- students can succeed re- certain functions but the Volkswagen hits most of • Free high-speed charg- most support receive it,” dress mental health and gardless of their racial/eth- lag time between execution the right buttons with the ing said Marc H. Morial, pres- social-emotional well-being nic and economic and operation was too ID.4. There is room for five Cons: ident and CEO of the Na- of students, tutoring and background. As we prepare long. adults and 30 cubic feet of • Some overthought tech tional Urban League. extending instructional for the upcoming school But some things are inno- space for their stuff. The • Need power boost NWEA’s research high- time, professional devel- year, it is critical that our vative. Sit in the driver’s interior is minimalist with- Email Winfred Cross at: lights national trends from opment geared at meeting leaders prioritize invest- seat and you turn the car out looking cheap. The [email protected] this past year, but local the needs of diverse ments in our schools so on. The key fob unlocks seats are comfortable, and context matters. NWEA en- learners and redesigning that our students are courages communities to state accountability sys- equipped with the support dive deeper into their own tems to better align with and resources they need to data and insights to under- recovery plans. succeed. Only then can we stand the ongoing impact NWEA is not alone in this continue to make progress of the pandemic on their advocacy. Like minded, in bridging the achieve- students. The experiences equity-focused organiza- ment gap.” of individuals will differ tions and voices are speak- “There is a lot of work for from the national average, ing up even louder now to us to do going forward,” and communities must support our educational said Sal Khan, founder and look beyond just academic community in the long CEO of Khan Academy. indicators to understand path ahead. “NWEA’s research confirms the impacts. Attendance, “These data show in very how deeply students of school engagement, social- stark terms just how much color and students from emotional well-being, the pandemic took a toll on low-income communities family environment, com- learning for all students, have been affected by the munity support, unem- especially for students of pandemic. The road ahead ployment rates, evictions color and those living in is an opportunity to focus and other factors should poverty,” said Deborah De- on personalized, mastery- all be looked at holistically lisle, CEO of the Alliance based learning — and to to inform actionable plans for Excellent Education. give every student every- that are specific to the “Congress is making an where the chance to fill in BRANDPOINT needs of communities. historic investment in edu- gaps.” Actor and health advocate LeVar Burton is lending his voice on a You Have to Go to Know, an ini- “It’s important to re- cation with COVID relief “Our purpose in sharing tiative to elevate the voices of people living with and impacted by a group of rare, chronic blood member that academic funding. It’s time for this research was not to tell cancers. achievement is only one states, districts, and teachers how challenging dimension of students’ schools to use that money this last year was. They un- education, and these data to create systemic changes derstand better than Campaign touts effectiveness of alone cannot paint a com- that impact students now anyone what it was like for plete picture of how young — and for generations to students and what they people fared this past come — and make our edu- need to do when they enter advocacy for doctor visitation year,” said Karyn Lewis, cation system more just those classrooms this fall,” senior research scientist at for every student who said Chris Minnich, CEO of Continued from page 1B they need," said Burton. test results, asking ques- NWEA and lead author of walks through our doors.” NWEA. “Our call for radical ular visits with a healthcare Burton is sharing what he tions, sharing health con- the study. “For instance, “It comes as no surprise collaboration is directed at provider to monitor the has learned from his concerns, reviewing and our results cannot speak to that the shift to distance those who work in support disease to identify any versations with patients tracking changes in a dis- the many ways students, learning proved challeng- of educators. We must re- changes. with MPNs to help inspire ease. families, and teachers have ing for many students, par- move any barriers in the Over the past year, ho- people within the MPN • Be your own health ad- shown incredible resilience ents, and teachers, but the way of effective instruc- wever, many people have community and others vocate. Advocating for and adaptability in the face eye-opening numbers from tion, apply resources avoided visits to their with chronic conditions to your own care can help of immense challenges the NWEA study show the where teachers need them healthcare providers due once again seek the care you actively participate in that completely upended true extent of the impact the most (and that means to health-related anxieties. they need: decisions being made normal life.” on student learning, par- truly listening to what they In fact, nearly 41% of U.S. • Schedule an appoint- about your health. Keep an One thing is clear from ticularly on underserved need) and ensure there is adults surveyed in 2020 in- ment with your healthcare ongoing list of questions the national data: students students,” said Janet Mur- support beyond this next dicated they didn't feel team - and keep it! Make for your doctor and don't of color and/or those ex- guía, president and CEO of year because that unprece- comfortable visiting their and keep regular care ap- be afraid to ask for ad- periencing poverty were UnidosUS. “While many La- dented federal funding will healthcare provider in the pointments. Also, ask your ditional details or clarifica- impacted at greater levels, tino households continue run out long before we’ve months following the healthcare team which ap- tion. Track and share all of exacerbating pre-existing the struggle to recover reached that education onset of the pandemic. De- pointments need to be in- your symptoms as well. inequities and calling for from the effects of the pan- transformation.” laying or avoiding medical person visits, and which The more you share about urgency in focusing re- care can lead to serious can be telehealth (virtual) how your symptoms are sources. health implications, espe- visits to potentially save changing and affecting “The data sets from the cially for people with time and energy driving to you, the better your health- NWEA study confirm the « The Charlotte Post chronic conditions like and from appointments. care provider can help you profound impact COVID- cancer. • In-person visits for pa- to manage your MPN and 19 had on families and stu- HOUSES OF WORSHIP "While I am not per- tients with MPNs: Physical stay on track with what is dents. They also highlight sonally impacted by an exams, blood tests, bone right for you. the stark inequities that ex- MPN, I am reminded of my marrow tests, genetic tests • You have to go to know. isted before March 13, BAPTIST mother and her growing and imaging scans require When you miss appoint- 2020 — the pandemic health challenges as she in-person visits. ments, you also miss out grossly exacerbated the got older. She sometimes • Telehealth (virtual) ap- on essential conversations. disparities we see in the skipped her required doc- pointments that patients MPNs are progressive dis- education sector,” said Mi- tors' visits and follow up with MPNs can consider: eases that require constant chael Conner, Superinten- appointments, and I saw Each healthcare profes- monitoring. dent of Middletown Public first-hand the negative im- sional differs when it Go to www.voice- Schools in Middletown, pact it had on her health. comes to what can be dis- sofmpn.com to learn more Connecticut. “However, My hope is that this cam- cussed during virtual ap- about MPNs and explore the data sets also call for paign encourages the MPN pointments but typically resources available to as- the holistic redesign and community, and others the following can be dis- sist with scheduling and transformation of an oper- with chronic conditions, to cussed virtually: address- making the most of doctor ating model that can finally once again seek the care ing symptoms, reviewing visits. ground the principles of innovation, creativity, and equity in every fabric of How parents can help children our schools. At this junc- ture, we have permission to be bold, creative, inno- build and refine social skills vative, and experimen- FAMILY FEATURES tine,” said Taunya Banta, the feelings of characters tative for acceleration and While adults may joke inclusion services manager in books, to help them recovery. There has not about needing to relearn for KinderCare Learning learn to identify emotions been a time in our industry how to be around others in Centers. “Parents can set and appropriate ways to where we can reimagine a post-pandemic world, their children up for suc- address those feelings. For the traditional industrial children can also benefit cess when school starts example, “I’m sad, but I model that historically from a refresh of certain again in the fall by helping know a hug will help me marginalized students. soft skills – especially them work on these soft feel better,” or “I’m mad This is the opportunity young children who may skills in relaxed settings and that’s OK. It’s not OK where systemic change in not remember pre-pan- like family gatherings and to hit, but I can punch a pil- the context of policy, in- demic life. on the neighborhood play- low or stomp my feet to get vestments, and organiza- Building on these skills ground.” the feelings out of my tional practice can shift the can also help children pre- Consider these ways par- body.” As a family, try trajectory of every student pare for a successful return ents can help their children practicing some simple we encounter.” to school. In fact, data from build social skills. emotion regulation While these inequities are C.M.E. Mintel shows parents’ top Name emotions: Naming strategies like deep breath- not new, the level of fund- learning priorities for their emotions is an important ing. To help younger chil- ing now available to help children prior to entering part of learning how to reg- dren breathe deep, hold up address the need is, pro- grade school are how to ulate them. If your children two fingers and ask them viding a critical moment to play well with others (67%) don’t understand what to smell the flower as they support those com- and good manners (66%). emotions they’re experi- inhale (one finger) and munities most impacted. “Summertime is a great encing, they may be con- blow out the candle as they Along with the new re- time for families to help fused or upset by how they exhale (the other). search, NWEA released a their children focus on so- feel and that could amplify Play with other children: series of policy recommen- cial skills that may not the feelings and make it Play gives children an op- dations to advocate for de- have gotten much atten- more difficult to regulate portunity to freely express ploying the unprecedented tion this past year, particu- the emotions. their emotions and federal funding to com- larly if families were social Talk with your children thoughts, work out feel- munities and student pop- distancing or in quaran- about your own feelings, or Please see HOW | 3B ulations most impacted by 3B LIFE | The Charlotte Post Thursday, August 12, 2021

GETTY IMAGES Producing and eating sustainable and climate-friendly foods is good for the environment.

GETTY IMAGES Embrace sustainable eating Children can benefit from the reintroduction of soft social skills to help with their interactions with others. for a much healthier planet FAMILY FEATURES them into another meal. and savory notes including How parents can help kids Although good nutrition Avoid overeating, which cheddar, sea salt, choco- is essential for human life, has a negative impact on late and salted caramel. food production has a sig- your health, wastes food Processing and packaging build and refine social skills nificant impact on the en- resources and increases In general, foods with Continued from page 2B If disagreements or awkward mo- vironment. environmental impacts more packaging have a ings and explore relationships in a ments came up, help your children Taking a more sustain- from processing and trans- bigger impact on the envi- safe, lighthearted way. If you feel problem-solve ways they could ad- able approach to sustain- portation. ronment. comfortable and can follow health dress those situations next time. ing your body can help Buy climate-friendly foods While some degree of and safety guidelines, visit a play- “Most importantly, remember chil- protect the Earth and its Choosing snacks that packaging is necessary to ground or set up play dates with other dren of all ages have an incredible ca- climate. share your commitment to safely preserve and trans- children of similar ages then take a pacity for resiliency,” Banta said. “Just Food production ac- the climate can make a big port food, choosing op- step back to let the children play to- knowing they have a steady base to counts for more than one- difference. Not only does it tions with minimal gether. If your children aren’t ready to return to, a safe place where they’re fourth of all greenhouse help you feel better about recyclable packaging is a play with others, allow them to stay loved and appreciated for who they gas emissions, according the foods you eat, support- step you can take to help close to you until they feel ready to are, can give children the courage to a report compiled by ing brands that make the reduce how the food you join the other children. they need to face the challenge of a “Our World in Data.” Learn environment a priority can eat affects the Earth. Once the children are playing to- new or uncertain social situation with how you can fill your plate raise the bar for others. Know where it comes from gether, observe their interactions and self-confidence and courage.” with more earth-friendly One example is Airly Locally produced foods talk with your children (in the mo- For more tips to help your children foods by practicing these crackers, which are made travel a shorter distance, ment or later) about how they felt. If build or improve their social skills, sustainable habits: with 100% wholesome oats which means they require they had fun, ask what they enjoyed. visit kindercare.com. Grow your own food and grains, and grown less handling and trans- Gardening offers many through a farming process portation. That’s good benefits beyond the that removes carbon diox- news for the environment bounty of your harvest. ide from the air. The com- and it’s a simple way to Spending time outdoors in pany also invests in support your community, the sunshine is good for agricultural and forestry too. Back into ‘getting ready’ vibe the soul while the foods projects by purchasing car- Knowing more about the BRANDPOINT you raise provide a con- bon credits to offset its sources of your food goes venient source of nutrition. production and transporta- beyond eating local. You How long has it been Picking fresh produce tion footprint. can also make purchases since you got to indulge in from your backyard means The carbon footprint is from brands that promote your favorite getting ready you’re bypassing transpor- on the back of each box, so sustainable agriculture and routine before a fun night tation, packaging and you can see how many take meaningful steps to out? many of the other aspects grams of carbon dioxide protect the environment, For over a year now, of food production that are you are helping to remove animals and natural hab- many simple pleasures detrimental to the environ- from the air while satis- itats. have been put on hold - ment. What’s more, you get fying a snack craving. Learn more about foods like going out to places you to enjoy the satisfaction of Look for four flavor vari- that make a difference at love, celebrating special knowing you’re personally eties packed with sweet airlyfoods.com. occasions and even just responsible for the food on hanging out with your your plate. friends. You may have dis- COURTESY Reduce food waste covered that what you An estimated 30-40% of More people are “getting ready for nights out again. missed most of all was ac- the United States’ food tually the best part: getting perfect outfit to wow your be in the bathroom, but supply goes to waste each ready to go out. special someone. mentally you'll be gearing year, according to the U.S. With opportunities to so- Explore your mood up for an upbeat music Department of Agriculture. cialize beginning to open As you get ready for your festival. 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ASHLEY MAHONEY | THE CHARLOTTE POST “Excelsior” stands at Five Points Plaza in west Charlotte.

Iconic salute ASHLEY MAHONEY | THE CHARLOTTE POST Stephen Hayes (left) and David Wilson of Durham will make their curatorial debut at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African to westside American Arts + Culture with “Visual Vanguard: An Exhibition of Contemporary Black Carolina Artists.” past, present Exhibit highlights By Ashley Mahoney [email protected] Art tells the story of Historic West End at Five Points Plaza. “Excelsior” stands at Five Points Plaza, contemporary artists where Beatties Ford Road, Fifth Street, West Trade Street, State Street and Roz- zelles Ferry Road intersect. The public Gantt Center’s ‘Visual Vanguard’ a collection of Black Carolinas talent artwork pays homage to the historic Ex- which pieces would appear in the celsior Club on Beatties Ford Road, a By Ashley Mahoney of sculpture at Duke University: “Just [email protected] show and installing them in the gal- hub for Black social and political life in thinking about what they are trying leries. Charlotte for over 75 years. Stephen Hayes and David Wilson to communicate and who they are “It’s been that organic process from Arts & Science Council oversaw the will make their curatorial debut this trying to connect to in the audience.” the beginning,” Wilson said. “We are project, as it manages public arts pro- month. Vanguard is defined by Oxford Lan- going to carry that all the way grams funding for the city of Charlotte The duo, both of whom are practic- guages: “a group of people leading through to the end.” and Mecklenburg County. Charlotte’s ing artists based in Durham, are the way in new developments or Hayes and Wilson have curated Public Art Ordinance allocates 1% of guest curators at the Harvey B. Gantt ideas.” The intent of the exhibition is their own solo shows, but this is the total construction budgets for eligible Center for African American Arts + to play off the word. first time they have managed the capital projects for such work. Culture this month for “Visual Van- Hayes insists “Visual Vanguard” is work of other artists. They learned “The city in particular said they guard: An Exhibition of Contempo- just a beginning, as they intend to very quickly people have different wanted this piece to be tall, they wanted rary Black Carolina Artists,” which create what he described as “a move- concepts of time, which they chuck- it to be iconic, they wanted it to be opens on Aug. 14 and runs through ment of artists who are doing big led about together at the Gantt. something that definitely grabbed your Jan. 17. They assembled 26 artists things and trying to create another “‘You need it Tuesday or can I give eye when you came to Five Points across multiple mediums to explore way of recognizing them.” it to you Wednesday or Thursday?’” Plaza,” artist J. Stacy Utley said. how the Carolinas is woven into the “When we assembled this show, we Hayes said while Wilson laughed next Utley was the artist selected for the work of each artist through their were definitely looking at artists who to him. “‘No, I need it Tuesday.’” project, with assistance from Edwin method, being born and raised here, are at the forefront and leading a Said Wilson: “It is a learning pro- Harris, co-founder and design principal family or school. movement going into the future,” cess. As artists, we think in different of Durham-based architecture firm “Somehow that North Carolina- Wilson said. concepts of time from those who are Evoke. Both were mentored by architect South Carolina influence has found The goal is for the 2021 artists to not artists. Once you are creating, Phil Freelon, who designed the Harvey its way into their process or into the lay the foundation for a biannual you kind of get in the zone, and be- B. Gantt Center for African American theme or the content of their work,” show, regardless of the show’s fore you know it, three hours have Arts + Culture and the National Museum Wilson said. theme. passed, and you don’t even know of African American History and Cul- Work from the artists will be dis- Where it began until someone calls. Time is all rel- ture. played across two gallery spaces on Gantt President and CEO David ative. It teaches you how to shift “[Freelon] was a mentor to both Edwin the third floor. It will call on the role Taylor reached out to Hayes and Wil- from artist mode to administrator and I,” Utley said. “What an honor to be the past played in the artist’s journey son to see if they knew of any cu- mode.” working on Five Points with Edwin and and the southern experience. rators who could put together such a his team. It’s been like a full circle mo- “Having that contrast and that com- show. Immersive experience ment.” plementary aspect of southern her- “We started talking and Stephen While the show itself runs for five months, Hayes and Wilson did not Historic West End transition itage and background, how that is was like, ‘why can’t we just put it to- want to leave it at that. The Gantt will Utley said it was important to rec- woven into their work,” Wilson said, gether?’” Wilson said while laughing. offer programming surrounding the ognize the transition Historic West End “how it harkens back to other dec- “I was like, ‘why can’t we?’ As prac- exhibit, such as their Open Air talks is undergoing. ades of the past, maybe through ticing, exhibiting artists, fine artists to bring one-on-one conversations “For anybody who lives in Charlotte, stories from family members and and also public artists, I guess we with the artists in-person and vir- you know what Historic West End community members, sociopolitical didn’t think of ourselves as curators tually. A documentary component is means to the city of Charlotte,” Utley movements, all of that is what we are to an extent.” also underway, which is being filmed said. looking to capture and put on full Wilson said curating their own by videographer Michael Betts, as The city of Charlotte included the display to the audience.” work has woven into their process. Beatties Ford Road corridor as one of six Said Hayes, an associate professor They selected the artists, chose Please see GANTT | 6B areas in its Corridors of Opportunity program, a $24.5 million initiative launched last September. Among the projects slated for the corridor is the Five Points Public Plaza, where the artwork sits and includes a water feature «MOVIE REVIEW and amphitheater. It is also adjacent to the Gold Line streetcar, which extends public transportation options in the neighborhood. While these elements Jennifer Hudson puts ‘Respect’ on Aretha bio bring optimism about economic opportunity, they also signal concerns low-in- By Dwight Brown come residents will be pushed out due NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION to gentrification. Utley wanted to en- “They want to hear you sing,” says sure the artwork acknowledges the Rev. C.L. Franklin (Forest Whitaker) to community as it is now, not what it may his 10-year-old daughter Aretha (Skye become. Dakota Turner). “When we were awarded the project, And she did. Eventually singing her- one of the things that we really wanted self into 25 Grammys, a posthumously to do was to make sure that we did a awarded Pulitzer Prize Special Citation piece that was respectful to the com- and the history books. munity and also told the story that has How Franklin became the Queen of a narrative of the community, espe- Soul and loved by millions is the sub- cially the history of the community so ject of this fairly detailed and very en- that whether you've been there for tertaining biofilm that charts her rise either four months or 40 years this from childhood to 1972 and her mak- piece resonates with you,” Utley said. ing of the classic, live-recorded album, “We firmly believe that when it comes Amazing Grace. This project stars Jen- to public art, it belongs to the public nifer Hudson, the singer who was and the public has to be involved in handpicked by Franklin to play her. some level of input for the project. Like a Queen anointing a princess, True, you can't always make someone Franklin deemed: “I've made my deci- happy, but I think people always want sion, and it is you, young lady, who I to be heard.” want to play me.” That endorsement MGM Creating a quilt makes this Respect the quintessential They held community engagement Jennifer Hudson plays “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin in “Respect,” a biography about Franklin biodrama and any others, not the singer’s early years. sessions to gather input from neighbor- so much. hood residents, which led to the vision Detroit 1952, 10-year-old Aretha is a White (Marlon Wayans), C.L. is peeved: Misérables,” and that directive gives for two pieces within the larger scope precocious musical prodigy lauded by “You are not leaving this family for that the performances and recreated of the project. The two pieces within her dad C.L., loved by her grandmother piece of trash!” Yet this is when Aretha recording sessions an authenticity that “Excelsior” are “Ever Upward” and (Kimberly Scott, “The Abyss”) and en- finds her stride. She develops her own enhances the artistry. “Even Higher,” the Latin definitions of vied by her siblings. Years later as a brand of soul music, which starts with Whitaker, Hudson, Turner and Audra excelsior. The artwork pulls off the im- young adult in the 1960s, Franklin the gospel/blues tinged “I Never Loved MacDonald as the mother belt out agery of a quilt, weaving different (Hudson) tours churches with her a Man,” recorded with the Muscle songs. Titus Burgess as Reverend Dr. pieces of history together. father who watches her like a hawk, Shoals Rhythm Band on Atlantic James Cleveland, Franklin’s musical “If you look at how West Trade Street warding off suitors. C.L. helps his records in 1967. The rest is soul music mentor, Saycon Sengbloh as the adult turns into Beatties Ford Road, there are daughter land a recording contract with history. sister Erma, Hailey Kilgore as sister Car- so many different communities that are Columbia Records in 1960, and Frank- Director Liesl Tommy and the film’s olyn and Brenda Nicole Moorer as attached to that thoroughfare,” Utley lin releases jazz/pop-orientated al- producers made a smart decision when Brenda harmonize well. Their voices said. “It is almost like a thread that ties bums to little success. When she hooks they had the entire cast sing live. It’s a are heavenly, making the songs feel Please see EXCELSIOR | 6B up with hustler turned manager Ted strategy that worked wonders for “Les Please see JENNIFER | 6B 6B A&E | The Charlotte Post Thursday, August 12, 2021 Gantt showcases Black Jennifer Hudson puts ‘Respect’ on Aretha Franklin biopic contemporary artists Continued from page 5B ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. The Ted White. His perform- eye-catching clothes (Clint ance is tepid and shallow. Continued from page 5B richer. Classics like “Dr. music while creating the work, par- Feelgood,” “Think,” “Ain’t Ramos, “Lingua Franca”) A real pro, like the late they hope the show will travel after its ticularly gospel music that had fea- No Way,” “Chain of Fools” suit the characters and the Chadwick Boseman, would run at the Gantt. tured strong themes surrounding and “Sweet Sweet Baby times; their only imperfec- have taken this opportu- Artist highlight water and being steadfast in faith. (Since You've Been Gone)” tion is that they often look nity to turn White, a pivotal Utley’s work titled “Water” is com- “What you have is a collage of the resonate so much the too new, not lived in. character, into a mem- prised of found material and mostly history that water plays in the com- music carries the film over Most of the ensemble orable, menacing persona. tissue paper. His use of tissue paper munity from the Middle Passage any rough spots. performances are strong, Wayans does not. is very intentional based on how it (when Africans were enslaved and The script by playwright- with Hudson as the anchor What’s on view is so fas- transforms when it gets wet — it can forced to cross the Atlantic Ocean), turned-screenwriter Tracey and her singing as her cinating and the storyline be destroyed, or it can create a thing from slaves escaping against the river Scott Wilson, doesn’t miss strongest asset. While her so involving and con- of beauty. He uses this contrast to ex- headed north, from the civil rights much in the star’s forma- acting cannot match that sequential that when the plore the narrative water plays in the movement to [Hurricane] Katrina to tive years: Franklin’s often of a trained thespian (Viola film ends at Franklin’s fa- Black community. Flint, Michigan,” Utley said. “You have strained relationship with Davis, Angela Bassett) and mous church concert, you Utley said he listened to a lot of all these [consequences] in there.” her domineering dad, her accent seems to waver wish there was more. This tween and teenage preg- at times, she does convey is where a traditional theat- nancies, White’s notorious the emotional trauma the rical film format is lacking. spousal abuse and the star experienced in some The Queen of Soul had a singer’s bouts with alco- very impressive scenes. life so rich and long it ‘Excelsior’ an iconic salute to holism. The latter two plot Her interpretation of could fill a miniseries and points provide some of the Franklin, when she sings, still not touch all the break- film’s highest drama, mo- mimics her walk and ges- throughs, influential mo- the westside past and present ments when Aretha was tures and displays that ba- ments and endearing times Continued from page 5B University and “the road “The strength of ‘Excel- scarred for life, humiliated dass attitude captures the that made her such an aura just right. Scenes in icon. in the different patches of upward” leading from sior’ is the manner in in public and facing inner which Hudson wears an Still, her legacy has been a quilt together. Each one Trade Street in Uptown to which it honors the history demons that put her on a Afro wig and revels in her captured in her records, a of those patches has a JCSU’s Biddle Hall and the of the community in which path of self-destruction. militant “Young Gifted and bio book “Respect: The Life story.” “the prayers upward” as it is sited while inspiring That human frailty is bal- Black” phase are the ones of Aretha Franklin” and “Ever Upwards” consists the area changes. hope for its future,” ASC anced by the exhilarating when she looks most like now in a film that captures of folded laser-cut metal “Even Higher” consists of Vice President of Public Art moments (recording her Franklin. her essence and dispenses panels found at points on three metal panels, show- Todd Stewart said in a first hit), shows of courage Whitaker as the overbear- it through the vocal pipes West Trade Street on the ing images of the Excelsior statement. “Stacy and (civil rights activism with ing father who tests his and the acting prowess of southwest side of I-77. The Club, Biddle Hall and Edwin excel at creating MLK and supporting daughter is appropriately the one woman Franklin four 7-foot abstract forms Counts. The panels range landmarks that are rooted Angela Davis) and creative irascible. Everyone who herself deemed worthy of represent four elements: from 18-28 feet tall, one of in place. The communities breakthroughs (watching plays the sisters, young telling her story. The entire “The walk Upward” Doro- which features a reflective around Historic West End the scenes where she ar- and old, sings and acts production is reverential, thy Counts took integrat- finish, designed to make Charlotte have contributed ranges songs with the band well. Marc Maron as the but Jennifer Hudson ing public schools in viewers feel reflected in greatly to our city for gen- is magic). legendary record producer should be particularly Charlotte, “The Charge Up- the work. Together, they erations. ‘Excelsior’ cele- The characters, large and Jerry Wexler is sufficiently proud. She has done her ward” taken by every stu- form a torch, which is illu- brates that in a very small, are well drawn with animated while Burgess as job. She should take a bow. dent passing through the minated at night by LED inclusive way.” depth and dimension. The the musical director Rev. The Queen of Soul knew arch of Johnson C. Smith spotlights. dialogue floats safely above a soap opera-ish Cleveland shows just the what she was doing. feel. Mom to her daughter: right sensibility as Frank- Visit NNPA News Wire “Your daddy does not own lin’s emotional foundation. Film Critic Dwight Brown at ‘The Suicide Squad’ opens soft your voice.” If there is a weak link it is DwightBrownInk.com and Marlon Wayans as the trou- BlackPressUSA.com. By Jake Coyle For two hours and 25 mi- nutes, tight editing (Avril bled and abusive husband THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Beukes, “Queen Sugar”), a NEW YORK — Moviego- constant influx of histori- ing, once expected to be cal moments, rousing con- Finally! Satellite Internet closer to semi-normal cert performances, No Hard Data Limits! levels by now, continues to interactions with famous With be battered by the pan- And FREE Standard Installation!2 people (Dinah Washington Limited Time Offer. Restrictions may apply. demic, the delta variant of played by Mary J, Blige, the coronavirus and in- Clara Ward by Heather “You can get home streaming. The latest Headley and Smokey Rob- High-Speed Internet casualty: James Gunn’s inson by Lodric D. Collins) wherever you live!” Plans starting at “The Suicide Squad,” a crit- and Franklin’s life journey ically acclaimed, carnage- will keep you entranced. MO. ridden would-be smash The production design for 24 Mos. that disappointed with (Ina Mayhew, “Queen $26.5 million in estimated WARNER BROS. PICTURES CALL This image released by Warner Bros. Pictures shows, from left, Sugar”) aptly recreates the TODAY 1-877-313-1415 ticket sales. HughesNet is a registered trademark of Hughes Network Systems, LLC, an EchoStar Company. Restrictions apply. Call for details. David Dastmalchian, John Cena, Idris Elba and Daniela Mel- The Warner Bros. film, choir in a scene from "The Suicide Squad." which was released simul- taneously on HBO Max, could claim one pandemic opened with $133.7 mil- Globally, it has totaled record: the top R-rated lion in the U.S. and Canada, $122 million. That doesn’t opening. But “The Suicide eventually grossing $745 include the $30 million Squad,” featuring the million worldwide.) In part Disney said “Jungle Cruise” “Guardians of the Galaxy” because of fan backlash to made in its first weekend director’s first DC Comics DC titles like “The Suicide in “early access” purchases film, had seemed poised to Squad,” Gunn was brought on Disney+. (Disney didn’t be a bigger hit — and may in to set a more irreverent share updated streaming have been if the delta vari- tone. revenue in the movie’s sec- ant wasn’t keeping a lot of Gunn’s movie, a sequel- ond week.) moviegoers home. reboot that returns some If COVID-19 cases don’t Jeff Goldstein, distribu- cast members but not drop soon, studios will be tion chief for Warner Bros., others, drew good reviews faced with the difficult acknowledged the recov- (92% fresh on Rotten To- question of what to do with ery is taking longer than matoes), already has a upcoming tentpole re- anyone hoped. series spinoff starring John leases — especially distrib- “We always knew the Cena upcoming and was utors that aren’t as ramp-up would be two largely endorsed by mov- tethered to streaming plat- steps forward and one step iegoers with a B+ CinemaS- forms. Eyes will be on how back,” Goldstein said. “But core. The film stars Idris MGM handles the James when we’re living it, it’s not Elba, Margot Robbie, Viola Bond film “No Time to Die” great.” Davis and Joel Kinnaman. (Oct. 8) and whether Sony As recently as a month Not back: Will Smith or holds with “Venom: Let Prepare for ago, the outlook for movie Jared Leto. There Be Carnage” (Sept. theaters was brightening. “The Suicide Squad” cost 24). Paramount recently Marvel’s “Black Widow” set about $185 million to postponed the release of power outages a pandemic-best mark with make, but the current state “Clifford the Big Red Dog” a $80 million domestic of the box office doesn’t citing the rise of the delta debut. Now, that movie’s offer much of a chance for variant. with a Generac hybrid release is the focus profitability for movies at “Currently, this is an un- of a bitter legal battle be- that scale. Warner didn’t forgiving market,” said tween star Scarlett Johans- release any streaming or David A. Gross, who runs home standby son and the Walt Disney subscription data related the movie consultancy Co. that has larger ramifi- to the “The Suicide Squad,” firm Franchise Entertain- cations for the economics but Goldstein said that ment Research. “The last generator of big-budget movies in every release has seen “a couple of big movies have the streaming era. proportional response” on been flawed. Under normal More importantly, COVID HBO Max that correlates to conditions, a strong mar- cases in the United States its popularity in theaters. If keting campaign can over- have since rocketed — it’s a hit in theaters, it’s a come a few drawbacks and from a few thousand daily hit on streaming. generate a good weekend. infections to more than Paul Dergarabedian, sen- Under current conditions, 100,000. That has led ior media analyst for data that isn’t happening.” REQUEST A some to curtail indoor ac- firm Comscore, said that Goldstein said that if not tivities and some states to while he believes day-and- for the streaming half of its consider changing regula- date releases can hurt a releases, Warner Bros. FREE QUOTE! tions. New York is planning movie’s box office, the wouldn’t likely be opening to make vaccination a re- dominant variable is still films like “The Suicide quirement for indoor din- the pandemic. Squad.” 844-805-2431 ing and other venues, “Today is a very different “We’ve definitely de- including movie theaters. marketplace than it was clared that a day-and-date “I think avid moviegoers even just a few weeks ago, strategy with HBO Max is have returned to theaters, which makes any kind of not our plan and it’s not and they show up first long-term proclamations what we’re going to do in night and through the as to what’s going on with 2022. But if we didn’t do weekend,” Goldstein said. the movie industry or this in 2021, we couldn’t FREE “But what we’re not seeing movie theaters very chal- afford the marketing, let 7-Year Extended Warranty* is the casual moviegoers — lenging,” Dergarabedian alone it would have been those who were interested said. “The desire for going ridiculous to put the A $695 Value! and would have gone in a to the movies is there, but movies out,” Goldstein pre-pandemic context. the marketplace is in flux.” said. “It’s definitely a com- Limited Time Off er – Call for Details Right now, they’re not Last week’s top film, Dis- plicated time.” quite there.” ney’s even pricier “Jungle Some independent films The result for “The Sui- Cruise,” also opened softer have still found relative cide Squad” — strong re- than expected, collecting success. Tom McCarthy’s views, underwhelming $34 million in the U.S. and “Stillwater,” starring Matt Special Financing Available opening — is a kind of in- Canada against a reported Damon, added $2.9 million verse to 2016’s “Suicide budget of $200 million. to bring its two-week total Subject to Credit Approval Squad,” which was lam- While most titles this year past $10 million for Focus basted by critics but also have fallen fast after re- Features. David Lowery’s *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install lease, “Jungle Cruise” held “The Green Knight” made a lot of money. The and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for film, directed by David reasonably well, dropping grossed $2.6 million to Ayer (who has since called 55% in its second week bring its two-week gross to a full list of terms and conditions. the film “not my cut”), with $15.7 million. $12.2 million.