Publisher & Managing Editor

Gwen Pierce

ContributorsLula Hunter

Ernie McCrayDr. Shirley Sprinkles, Ph.D.Danielle Adefeso (Queen D)

Artress CornmesserDr. Amanda Goodson

Amber Williams Sherry D. Jordan

Shametra McGregor

Graphic ArtistShanda Pierce

For advertising contact:Barney h. Murray at 520-390-4723

For Subscriptions and Back issuescall 619-507-9327

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news@thechocolatevoice.comwww.thechocolatevoice.com

The Chocolate Voice is Published monthly, January

through December.The publisher assumes no

responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed

are not necessarily those of thepublisher, its staff or advertisers.

ISSN 1944-7698

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher.

©2009, The chocolate voice All rights reserved.

CHOCOLATE VOICETHE

4| Remarks from the Publisher

5| In Ernies Mind

6| Despite the times by Amber Williams

7| Table Talk and Recipes

8| Traditional Ira’s

9| A Proposed Destiny

11| In The Spotlight

12| Goals, Habits - Accountability

13| Letters to the Publisher

14| October Events

happy holidays!

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Betsey Johnson $ 30.00earrings leopard heart Bow

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in My heart Bracelet collection: Breaded leather collection

Macy’s $295.00Regina Flap hand

Gap $59.50 Puffer vest

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February 2010

4 | The chocolaTe voice

During most of elementary, middle and high school being the only black kid in 99.9% of my classes was quite overwhelming for me at times, particularly during history. as enthusiastic as i was to learn about my heritage, at times it was quite painful to hear teachings exclusively on slavery. Back in the late 1960’s through early 1970’s the only textbooks that i recall seeing were filled with imagery of chains, lynch mobs, beatings and, what made matters worse was whenever the instructor began to teach on the subject, it never failed that all of the white kids heads would spin around 90 degrees and, all eyes would focus on me. i vividly remember those faces looking at me as if to say, honestly, during those times whenever the subject of race came up in class, my first thought was to cover up my head, or better yet skip class all together.

Receiving attention of that sort was especially trying during adolescence when to begin with, most kids are not comfortable in their own skin and, to be made to feel different in front of peers just wasn’t cool.

Sadly, growing up in my hometown Tucson, there were very few african americans and, it was quite common to be known as the “black or colored girl or boy” not only in class, but in the neighborhood.

i will never forget 2nd grade moving into our neighborhood, making friends on the block and how our new playmate Steve, introduced us to his mother. he said, “Look Mom, I made friends with the colored kids.” Today, looking back on those days and being introduced in such a manner is quite humorous and, on that note, like the slogan says, “We’ve come along way baby!

i guess you can say, this is one of the reasons why the month of February, also celebrated as black history month has special significance for most of us. During this month, media outlets and educational institutions inundate us with positive information on contributions that african americans have made throughout history.

in this month’s issue of The Chocolate Voice, iris Dewitt Journalism senior at The University of arizona takes us on a fascinating journey with one of the first black air Traffic controllers for the Faa, Richard huff. We also had the opportunity to chat with lama choyin Rangdrol, the only african-american teacher of Buddhism recognized by the First conference of Tibetan Buddhist centers in North and South america, convened by the office of

Tibet and attended by the Dalai lama. los angeles writer Frances Washington shares her moving story, hoNoRiNG MYSelF aND MY NeiGhBoRS on page…

in addition to learning about the fascinating lives of those two people, we had the chance to party with PRvcY Premium for a purpose, breast cancer awareness.

lastly, how can i forget the sweetest holiday, valentines Day February 14th. enjoy the article on the history of chocolate on page … by Griffin Mershon, culinary student at le cordon Bleu college of culinary arts in Scottsdale aZ. in this month and every month we’re honored to have the constant support of our featured articles by our dedicated and faithful contributing writers, ernie Mccray, Dr. Shirley Sprinkles, Dr. amanda Goodson, artress cornmesser and Barney hilton Murray and we hope you find inspiration and enlightenment in their brilliant writing.

The chocolaTe voice | 5

Six years ago i moved into a senior complex in downtown los angeles. i had given no thought to what ethnic population my neighbors would be; however, i was surprised to discover that the majority were South Korean and spoke little or no english. There were also Filipino, hispanic, african american and caucasian. i’m mentioning ethnicities because i was now among people of cultures i’d not lived with on a daily basis—Filipinos and Koreans.

i found Filipinos to be friendlier and quicker to initiate conversation; although puzzling and annoying when i’d be asked, “Where you going…going shopping?” or “Where you been…been shopping?” i often wanted to say, “None of your business”. i didn’t want to promote the image of being rude…so, i’d go with a smile and a “Yes”.

There was dead-pan indifference in the Korean face. i got the sense that i was physically seen, but that i didn’t matter in the scheme of their world. This made me most uncomfortable. i like my presence acknowledged and i’m happy to acknowledge yours.

That feeling reminded me of an encounter i experienced much earlier in life.

i was 14 years old when circumstances provided that i walk home alone from church one Sunday afternoon. The church was on 8th and Towne, in los angeles and i lived on South hooper avenue and 89th Street. That’s 81 blocks, not counting the “places” and “drives” in between. let’s say, it was a long walk home.

i chose to go down central ave, a street that was full of juke joints blasting blues and jazz sounds. hustling men and women were hanging out in front of bars and small hotels…jaw-jagging and shooting craps.

i strolled along, in and out of the “Five and Dime” stores and fashion boutiques. i enjoyed feeling the fabrics of clothing and analyzing the quality of stitching in the seams and hems of dresses like my mother had taught me to.

i had just come out of a store still smiling to myself about that nice, grown-up suit that i liked and knew would fi t me perfectly, when i saw

5 men standing in front of a bar. This group made me uneasy. as i approached them, they all turned in my direction and began to smile and talk about me, i was sure.

i nervously gathered my handbag up across my breast, which was too big for my comfort at this time. i held my head high, set my eyes straight ahead and quickened my step. When i got in front of them one man said, “Good afternoon pretty little lady”. i was shocked because i really expected to hear something vulgar come out of his mouth. Something like what my grandmother always told me that these “kind” of men said to women on the street. “Don’t give them the time of day,” i heard her voice loom in my head. i walked faster. “hey, little Miss lady. Who do you think you are? can’t you speak when spoken to?” The closeness of his voice said that he was following me and was not happy about my attitude. “hey! little girl, i’m talking to you. haven’t you been taught to speak when spoken to?” “Why, yes.” i thought to myself, “i’ve always been taught to speak.” My grand

mother had also said, “The truth shall make you free.”

i turned and saw him retreating to his group. “Good afternoon sir, how are you today?” he returned my smile saying, “Why i’m just fi ne, little lady. and you are a nice, fi ne young lady.” They all waved and resumed their conversation.

i began skipping along happily swinging my pocketbook as i felt his words resonate joy within my soul.

To this moment, i feel good…i feel free when i simply share a smile and a nod.

Regarding my neighbors, i decided to be comfortable with myself and just speak, without attachment to whether or not or how my greeting would be received or returned. i did it…consistently. i began to get a grunt and now i receive a full-blown, smiling “hi”… often times before i say anything. i have one Korean neighbor, who hugs me practically every time we see each other.

Wow. i am so pleased i chose to be true to myself. look what i’d be missing if i had not. life is truly good when you honor yourself and your neighbors.

by Ernie McCray

6 | The chocolaTe voice

Six years ago i moved into a senior complex in downtown los angeles. i had given no thought to what ethnic population my neighbors would be; however, i was surprised to discover that the majority were South Korean and spoke little or no english. There were also Filipino, hispanic, african american and caucasian. i’m mentioning ethnicities because i was now among people of cultures i’d not lived with on a daily basis—Filipinos and Koreans.

i found Filipinos to be friendlier and quicker to initiate conversation; although puzzling and annoying when i’d be asked, “Where you going…going shopping?” or “Where you been…been shopping?” i often wanted to say, “None of your business”. i didn’t want to promote the image of being rude…so, i’d go with a smile and a “Yes”.

There was dead-pan indifference in the Korean face. i got the sense that i was physically seen, but that i didn’t matter in the scheme of their world. This made me most uncomfortable. i like my presence acknowledged and i’m happy to acknowledge yours.

That feeling reminded me of an encounter i experienced much earlier in life.

i was 14 years old when circumstances provided that i walk home alone from church one Sunday afternoon. The church was on 8th and Towne, in los angeles and i lived on South hooper avenue and 89th Street. That’s 81 blocks, not counting the “places” and “drives” in between. let’s say, it was a long walk home.

i chose to go down central ave, a street that was full of juke joints blasting blues and jazz sounds. hustling men and women were hanging out in front of bars and small hotels…jaw-jagging and shooting craps.

i strolled along, in and out of the “Five and

Dime” stores and fashion boutiques. i enjoyed feeling the fabrics of clothing and analyzing the quality of stitching in the seams and hems of dresses like my mother had taught me to.

i had just come out of a store still smiling to myself about that nice, grown-up suit that i liked and knew would fit me perfectly, when i saw 5 men standing in front of a bar. This group made me uneasy. as i approached them, they all turned in my direction and began to smile and talk about me, i was sure.

i nervously gathered my handbag up across my breast, which was too big for my comfort at this time. i held my head high, set my eyes straight ahead and quickened my step. When i got in front of them one man said, “Good afternoon pretty little lady”. i was shocked because i really expected to hear something vulgar come out of his mouth. Something like what my grandmother always told me that these “kind” of men said to women on the street. “Don’t give them the time of day,” i heard her voice loom in my head. i walked faster. “hey, little Miss lady. Who do you think you are? can’t you speak when spoken to?” The closeness of his voice said that he was following me and was not happy about my attitude. “hey! little girl, i’m talking to you. haven’t you been taught to speak when spoken to?” “Why, yes.” i thought to myself, “i’ve always been taught to

speak.” My grand mother had also said, “The truth shall make you free.”

i turned and saw him retreating to his group. “Good afternoon sir, how are you today?” he returned my smile saying, “Why i’m just fine, little lady. and you are a nice, fine young lady.” They all waved and resumed their conversation.

i began skipping along happily swinging my pocketbook as i felt his words resonate joy within my soul.

To this moment, i feel good…i feel free when i simply share a smile and a nod.

Regarding my neighbors, i decided to be comfortable with myself and just speak, without attachment to whether or not or how my greeting would be received or returned. i did it…consistently. i began to get a grunt and now i receive a full-blown, smiling “hi”… often times before i say anything. i have one Korean neighbor, who hugs me practically every time we see each other.

Wow. i am so pleased i chose to be true to myself. look what i’d be missing if i had not. life is truly good when you honor yourself and your neighbors.

hoNoRiNG MYSelF aND MY NeiGhBoRS

Frances Washington

Frances Washington is a freelance writer living in Los Angeles, CA

chocolate is one of the most versatile ingredients in baking. it was created 4,000 years ago in the amazon, by the Mayan culture. in the 1500’s it was used as currency in some areas of the world and, was even prescribed for stomach issues and fatigue. The aztecs actually believed that it could be used to give their warriors strength for battle. The europeans also believed in using chocolate as a form of medication for bowel syndromes.

Today, chocolate is even used to make some liquor. Without the discovery of chocolate we wouldn’t be able to enjoy many of the things we have today. Just think about it, how many glasses of hot chocolate have you drank during cold winter nights?

Scientists have innovatively developed a chocolate diet where you can actually lose weight. additionally, there have also been studies done that prove how chocolate can help in the muscle recovery. The evolution of chocolate seems endless, as in the case of a chocolate massage. instead of a hot tub or mud bath, you actually bathe in chocolate. it’s believed to help exfoliate the skin.

how chocolate is made is that you must fi rst harvest the beans. Next, open the pods to extract the grains and white sticky substance that surrounds it. Then, ferment the harvest which usually takes place within the fi rst week. lastly, you dry and store them.

The premier chocolate makers are Godiva, lindt and, Scharffenberger is vastly revered as well. Manufacturing is started by tempering (or chopping up) the chocolate. Then you must heat and melt. While stirring, heat your chocolate up

to 115 degrees and then let it cool. Now, briefl y reheat your chocolate to about 85 degrees for 15 seconds and your chocolate is tempered. There are different ways to use your chocolate. For example, mold your chocolate, which is to let it harden in a pre determined form. The other would be to dip your chocolate, meaning to dip a certain product into your chocolate to create a small chocolate shell.

My mother’s store Paradigm Gifts and Repackaging in Grandville, Michigan, distributes mainly Ghirardelli, lindt and Godiva. her biggest seller is truffl es by lindt. She began her company about 8 years ago and, started the design fi eld of it as well. Therefore, she not only distributes the chocolate, but creates labels for large

companies. The product line ranges from Ghirardelli squares with raspberry fi lling to giant Scharffenberger bars. Truffl es and chocolate animals are designed and catered to each holiday, such as valentines Day. however, their main product is gift baskets which she designs herself. The company does business nationwide with prices that vary among the vast products. The gift baskets are from $60 to $75 retail but about $20 to 30 wholesale, depending on the chocolate used. chocolate bars are about 3 dollars a piece, while truffl es go for 8 dollars a box. Products are made elsewhere but packaged on location. They also do not display products at the warehouse. Mainly companies come to them already knowing what they want, and that is, delicious chocolate.

in celebration ofValentines Day, February 14th,

an inside look on Chocolate Delicious chocolate by: Griffi n Mershon

Griffi n Mershon is currently a student at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Artsin Scottsdale, AZ

ScRiPTURe: . . Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself Matthew 22:39

This is the second commandment and a foundational pillar to abundant life for God’s people. Unfortunately it is consistently overlooked!

Did you catch it? God’s command for us to love ourselves.

Take a moment to concentrate on this extremely important love relationship – YoU loviNG YoU!

You can not love God if YoU don’t love YoURSelF. You are made in his (God’s) image and in his (God’s) likeness (Gen 2:27). So if you can’t look in the mirror and love who you are – how can you love the one who created you?

The time for loving you is now. Not with material things but by truly honoring the “love code” found in (i corinthians 13:4-8): be longsuffering, kind, gentle, gracious, honest, generous, and patient to yourself, do not envy, be arrogant, rude, get angry or overbearing with yourself.

Stop talking bad about yourself and associating with people who don’t like you. By the way if you have people that constantly speak negatively about you and cover it by saying “i am joking” i suggest you re-evaluate these people. Many cover up true feelings with sarcasm and inappropriate humor. haters of self hate others. When you love yourself, it shows and you show others how to treat you by what you allow them to do or not do.

Never allow people to, treat you as if you are worthless, no good or cuss you out. if you love yourself you will stop the madness and the bad behavior of others towards you.

i am not a doctor or a therapist but it does not take one to fi gure out that you hate yourself when you hang out with people that disrespect you, talk bad about you, and do not support you in purpose, vision, life or ministry.

To be loved and respected are basic needs of all humans. Would you allow your own children to hang out with other kids that throw them in the dirt and kick them? i pray not! Find new friends that respect you, lift you up encouraging you to be the best you can be.

lack of love for self can lead to destructive behaviors including drinking, drugs, sexual promiscuity, adultery, murder, violence, abuse of self/others addictions and more.

if you look at your self and truly don’t like who you see ----- chaNGe YoU ----YoU are the one that makes the decisions for yourself – God says good things about you. he knows what is really on the inside. So get rid of the garbage that has been poured into you and uncover who God created you to be.

Twelve years ago it became evident to me that i hated myself! coming out from under 30+ years of abusive behavior that included; rape, abuse, name calling, rejection, abandonment, and beatings was not easy at fi rst. i had learned to be “tough”, “independent”, “strong”, “selfi sh with an “i don’t care” or “ “gotta get mine” attitude. These things only alienated me more, causing me to hurt myself and others by my attitude

and actions. Remember “hurting people hurt people” (Joyce Meyers).

as i learned the truth of how God created me i became loving, kind, caring, giving, forgiving, honest, faithful, beautiful respectful, and respectable.

When a person is ready to change they must learn to exchange bad behavior for good. every sin against yourself is rooted in a lie about yourself. connect with the Spirit of God and learn who you really are. he loves you so who are you not to love yourself.

i now know that love is my main ingredient. if you are like i was i pray you join in learning how to love YoURSelF. if you know someone that is a hater – give them a copy of this article.

Question: “Will i ever fi nd true love?”answer: True love is: love God fi rst, yourself second and your neighbor as yourself third.

ambassador Brown – Stepping out!With the ones i love.

email me:RS3@ambassadorbrown.mysite.comor ebonytucson.ning.com/profi le/ReginaBrown, or write me at P.o. Box 17594, Tucson, arizona 85731

Walking in My ShoesWearing Rainbow Jeweled pumps… ready to discuss

“The importance of loving Yourself.”

8 | The chocolaTe voice

Honoring the Strength of Survivors! A Tribute Clothing Line for those Aff ected by Breast Cancerwww.myba ldhead .me

Hello, my name is Pam Scroggins, a Breast Cancer Survivor since 6/29/05 and I understand the importance ofLooking Good and Feeling Good, as well as wanting to give back to research and see an end to Breast Cancer.

I’ve created a new line of clothing called My Bald Head and it features a Custom Designed Jacket. The jacket is not-too-casual and not-too-formal, a great new classic piece for survivors and non-survivors to purchase while at the same time donating to valuable Breast Cancer research and support groups. My plan is to participate as an exhibitor and/or vendor in Breast

Cancer events and conferences nationwide. Please visit my website to view my custom designs and my story at: http://www.scrogginscreations.com • Pam Scroggins- Owner/Designer-404*405*7281

My Bald Head Signature Jacket

Black Stretch Twill (fully lined)

Light Pink Sateen Contrasting Shawl Collar and Cuffs

Pink Covered Button at waistline.

Front pockets

Left Chest Pocket with Pink Lining

Survivor can be embroidered on the left sleeve per request Sizes XS-XL

Partying for a Purpose

The chocolaTe voice | 9

Music oftentimes is referred to as the universal language by musicians and non musicians alike. There’s something about the power of music regardless of style that touches the soul. Take the blues for example, artist from that particular genre use music as a means to tell stories about ones heartbreaks and sorrows or, jazz when the sound of an instrument is used creatively as a voice to tell a story musically.

in December of 2009, The chocolate voice had the opportunity to attend one of the most inspiring events which took place at Beso’s in hollywood, california, celebrating the launch of the appropriately titled, Lives Inspired Book and United We Cure CD. The event sponsor, PRvcY Premium Denim a high end denim jean company whose mission is to contribute a portion of their sales to fund breast cancer awareness, truly brought the phrase alive, partying for a purpose.

The venue, Beso’s was transformed beautifully into a spirit fi lled party full of talent, swag and style from some of the most brilliant neo soul and smooth jazz artists on the planet, including hill St. Soul, lalah hathaway, Rahsaan Patterson, eric Darius, Brian culbertson, Mindy abair and Paul Taylor just to name a few. in addition to the constant fl ow of music, models were seen on the runway struttin their stuff in PRvcY denim.

invitees, artists and survivors all partied together under the same roof for the sake of honoring beautiful people who were affl icted with breast cancer and, those who vow to help fi nd a cure. incidentally, the fi rst cut off the cD, titled The

cure is one of those tunes when you hear it, let’s just say immediately you can’t help but to get into the groove. Performed as a duo by two Neo Soul greats, lalah hathaway (daughter of the late Donny) and Rahsaan Patterson, with catchy lyrics and an upbeat tempo which include; Yes there’s a cure for this, Gonna fi nd a cure for this, Love is a cure for this, Don’t worry we’ll fi nd it, had the entire place moving and grooving all, honoring those who have had the misfortune of battling the fi ght of their lives.

in addition to artist mentioned the masterful cD also includes the brilliant work of leigh Jones, Norman Brown, Will Downing, Gail Johnson and the late great Wayman Tisdale.

The cD’s executive Producer, Rhonda Kilpatrick who is also executive vice President of the company and a smooth jazz fan since the age of 19 writes, “This was a great concept to spread the word of fi nding a cure through music, and participating in this project has brought me a tremendous amount of joy.”

carolyn Jones, ceo and founder of PrivacyWear and PRvcY Premium Denim, created the clothing line in tribute of her late mother, Mrs. Jean James who lost her battle to the disease. During her mothers last days she encouraged her daughter to fi nd a career with passion and, along came the very successful brand PRvcY pronounced privacy.

The company has been responsible for funding free mammograms to women across theUnited States.

in addition to the cD, the company has published the book, Lives Inspired: Portraits of Breast Cancer Survivors, that include stunning color and black and white photography of survivors mostly women of all ages and, one male who along with his daughter lend their voices and faces on how they turned the negative of being dealt a bad hand into a positive by choosing to overcome and triumph in an unwarranted circumstance.

The cD and the book is truly a testament to the passion, dedication and commitment that publisher and ceo Jones and executive Producer Kilpatrick put forth in doing whatever it takes to make sure that lives are inspired even in the face of adversity.

“lives inspired: Portraits of Breast cancer Survivors” and the United We cure cD is available at www.privacywear.com and soon at online retailers and various bookstores.

CD and BookLaunch Party“Lives Inspired:Portraits ofBreast CancerSurvivors”& UnitedWe Cure.Reviewed byGwen Pierce

10 | The chocolaTe voice

While walking through the doors of Banner estrella Medical center in Phoenix ariz., most people do not know anything about the man who is often behind the information desk other than knowing he will greet them with a smile if they have any questions. little do these people know that the man that sits before them has had such an amazing journey that has led him to where he is today. Richard huff gives back to his community and volunteers weekly at the medical center, but before devoting his days to community service, huff was one of the fi rst african-american air traffi c controllers in the U.S.

Born Jan. 2, 1937, in a hospital in chicago, huff experienced a life of discrimination, which was common for the majority of black men in the 1930s. The fact that huff was even born in a hospital was groundbreaking, because during that time, a midwife usually delivered black babies, huff said. Starting at a young age, huff aspired to be successful. “as a child i always had a job,” he said. huff obtained his fi rst job at a grocery store in Detroit, where he, his older brother and father, Gilbert, resided after his parents divorced. his mother and two sisters remained in chicago. he was 6 at the time. huff passed by the grocery store everyday on the way to school and back. “i do not why the store owner asked my dad if i could work there,” huff said. “all i know is that my dad said it was ok.” The fi rst big-ticket item he purchased with his earnings was a bicycle. “My dad said ‘if my son can save up for

half of the cost of the bike, then i can pay for the other half,’” huff said. huff was also determined with his studies. however, when he moved to Detroit and transferred to a primarily white school, he was put back a year, because the children were so far advanced. “We were learning about Shakespeare in the third grade,” huff said. “They taught us everything. That’s why i went back a year: i didn’t know anything.”

huff did not let his inferior chicago schooling hold him back for long and eventually skipped fi fth grade altogether. huff returned to chicago to live with his mother and stepfather during the sixth grade. he obtained his second job as a paperboy in the seventh grade. “The reason why i took the job is because i was looking for something to do. School was not a challenge for me whatsoever,” huff said.

according to huff, he did not receive what he received in Detroit until his senior year in chicago. Most of huff’s teachers were white and he considered it a form of oppression that he along with his classmates was not challenged. “The black instructors didn’t teach me anything, because they felt i knew it all,” huff said. “The whites would shield me from knowledge, because the only thing a black male was receiving was a hanging.”

Racial tensions were high during this era. The civil Rights act was not passed until 1964. “We were expected to pay taxes as fi rst class citizens but were not treated or

allowed to function as fi rst class citizens,” huff said. “The most productive jobs for a black person in chicago were either at the post offi ce, the steel mills or the cattle yards.” Though the situation seemed bleak for huff in chicago, he continued to strive for excellence. he has always been known for his professional appearance. “i simply always had it in me to look nice,” huff said. The money he did not save always went to clothing and dry cleaning expenses. after ending his paperboy stint, he began working for another grocery store. his stepfather offered to give huff his extra tip money from his job so huff would not have to work, but huff preferred to work for his own money. Right after huff graduated from high school in 1955, he married high school sweetheart Barbara Jean ingram who was 16 at the time and had a baby on the way. huff needed to fi nd a new job so that he could support his new family. “i was not interested in learning a trade.” huff said. “i wanted to earn a living with my head, not my hands.” however, with a family to support, huff went to a trading station and discovered that given his membership in the Reserve offi cers’ Training corps in high school, he was eligible to be second lieutenant in the army. he did not want to do this because as a black man, second lieutenant would probably just land him a position as a cook, huff said.

however, they fl ew him to Dallas, did not allow him to go home and he was offi cially placed in service. he was then

in theSPoTliGhT

The chocolaTe voice | 11

transferred to San antonio where he was one of two black men in his battalion. huff immediately began to experience the similar discrimination he had received in high school when restaurants would refuse to serve him and when his technical instructors were outraged at the fact he was selected as squad leader. huff took his job as squad leader very seriously and made sure that everyone in his squad completed their work. Shortly thereafter it was time for career day for the men in his battalion. it was on this day that the results of the career aptitude test they had taken several weeks prior were revealed. huff spoke with the counselor and was advised to be an air traffi c controller given his results.

an air traffi c controller was a highly desired position by many men and training openings were very few. at that point in time, only one position was open. “it was a job of the future,” huff said. huff then traveled to Mississippi where he was to receive his air traffi c controller training. Men who were sent here all did manual labor until they were lucky enough to be selected to enter the air traffi c controller

school. Though huff had made it past one barrier, he had yet another one to face.

in no time at all, the fi rst sergeant got huff a position in night school for air traffi c control. Upon his arrival he had met a tired airman who was on duty and spoke with him all night to keep him company and help him stay awake. When it came time for huff to meet the fi rst sergeant, the airman mentioned what huff had done for him, and the fi rst sergeant expressed his gratitude for keeping his airman awake by immediately enrolling huff in the night school. “i guess i was in the right place at the right time,” huff said. The school lasted for about 12 weeks and huff graduated. The top three students in both the day and night class combined got to go to New York and begin working at an air traffi c control center. huff was among the top three. “it was not customary for a black to be amongst the top three,” huff said. When huff stood to gain his recognition, they immediately withdrew their statement and stated that only two men were to go to New York. “They sent me to Scott air Force Base to work in ground control approach instead,”

huff said. “Why after fi nding out i was in the top three they decided to send me elsewhere is something i still don’t know.”

after serving his time at Scott, he was transferred to the Wright air Force Base where he received an honorable discharge in July 1959. after serving his time in the air Force, he moved back to chicago where he heard the chicago Transit authority was now hiring blacks. he fi nished his test faster than everyone else who was applying to be a bus driver. While approaching the window to submit his test, huff said one of the white men behind the counter said, “i can’t help you with your test.” after informing the men that he had completed it, the men were so shocked that they decided to grade his test on the spot and were surprised that he had actually passed, huff said.

huff landed the job and was such a great employee that the manager wanted him to be supervisor. however, at that time, huff was also offered a job for the chicago air Traffi c control center located at chicago Midway airport. huff accepted the position as air traffi c controller and continued to work for the Federal aviation administration for over 34 years in various cities. “We used to call him caption Kirk because he has gone where no black man has gone before,” huff’s daughter Dionne huff said. Throughout the years huff has been quoted and profi led in many newspapers and magazine including ebony Magazine. he was an avid supporter of getting more minorities hired in his profession and was even a part of the panel that helped create the equal employment opportunity commission. “he also fought for women to be a part of the Faa,” Dionne continued. “My Dad always told me that women had to be three times better than everyone else just to be considered average or acceptable. i believe that statement still stands today.” huff also made sure that his family had experiences and opportunities that were not offered to him.

“he always made sure we were in integrated areas so we could be exposed to people of all races and cultures,” Dionne said. “he wanted us to learn to judge people by their character and efforts, not by their culture, color of their skin, or religion.” huff also made sure to locate his family near universities so his children could be brought up near people who were seeking education, Dionne said. huff has received awards and recognitions from various public offi cials including former President Bill clinton for his work with the Faa. huff is now remarried to Glorya huff and has fi ve children and seven grandchildren. “i am proud to have a husband that has made a difference in so many people’s lives,” said Glorya. “i believe much of my success and ability to progress in society during a time where racial tensions were so high is because the majority of society didn’t consider me a minority because of my intelligence level,” huff said.

12 | The chocolaTe voice

Mark worked in a local church cafeteria in D.c. he scrubbed pots and pans, waited tables and served food in the established soul food cafeteria. Patrons would leave a couple dollars on the table for Mark after eating fried or baked chicken, catfi sh, ribs, greens, yams, cornbread, rolls (umm-the list goes on). as Mark cleaned, he would marvel at the fact that he had received a tip; for even the smallest tip reminded him of how thankful he was that he had a job.

ann and Myron (two regular, tipping, patrons) stopped Mark and asked him what made him so special. Mark shrugged his shoulders and replied, “i don’t know, i was supposed to be a millionaire by now.” he continued, with sullen enthusiasm, almost questioning his own response, “i wasn’t destined to work in a cafeteria.” i always thought i would be out there helping people and living large.”

his answers had peaked their curiosity so ann and Myron listened intently as Mark continued with his story. Mark said that he had once owned a business with a friend. a business that provided hard to fi nd but desperately needed services for the elderly and children with special needs. he and his partner would provide the service as fi nanciallyeconomical as they could to their customers, then the government would reimburse the company. Mark and his friend had gone into the business together under a verbal commitment and shared the proceeds. after several months in business, Mark’s friend betrayed him and took all of the money and the business. Mark was left with nothing.

Mark needed to work, so he took the job in the cafeteria working for his church. he was angry that he had been treated so poorly by his friend and he also seemed angry with God for his predicament. he wanted a better life. he wanted a way back. Mark told his story thinking it might help others appreciate the things they had (such as jobs that allowed them to eat out now and then and to tip their favorite waiter handsomely).

Within months of telling his story to all who would listen (hoping they would learn from his experiences) Mark received a call from a new friend offering him a better job with great pay and opportunity for success. ironically, it was the same type of business that he had previously owned. Mark agreed. God was in the process of restoring Mark back to the position that God had for him.

God wanted Mark to be thankful for all he had, no matter the circumstances. God wanted Mark

to know that he was loved and very special to the Kingdom of God.

Waiting on your millions? look inside. look around. Maybe you already are a millionaire. how much would you pay for eyes to see if you didn’t have eyes? how much would you pay for legs if you couldn’t walk? how much would you pay for hands, hearing, or a tongue? You get the point. You are already God’s millionaires. You are purposed to be great. God wants us to see greatness in a different way sometimes. Yes, i believe we should live in abundance. i also believe that God will supply all our needs according to his riches.

So all of us are missionaries made by God which makes us worth millions. change the way you think and see far greater than the natural eye can see. Seek God as your authority in all things by staying in constant contact and communion with him. although hard times may come, continue to make your requests know to God. he promises to • Hear you, • Protect you, be merciful to you and give you happiness, • Teach you, and • Give you a sign for good. (Reference: Psalm 86)

Prayer: Father God, in this New Year, You deserve more than ever to be worshipped by all people and by me. You are a unique worker of miracles and i believe you are good and forgiving. Your love for me is great and you are merciful and gracious to us all. i am a missionary for You which is worth millions in Your Kingdom. i look forward to be made by You. in Your name i pray. amen.

Dr, amanda Goodson is Pastor of both Phillips chapel and Trinity Temple c.M.e., churches and, President of Never The Same Ministries in Tucson, aZ. For more information please visit phillipscme.com and ntsministries.org.

MillioNaiRe in the MaKiNG

Dr, Amanda Goodson

PHILLIPS CHAPEL CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

By JONNIE HOPKIN-MATHE

85 YeaRS! ThiS olD MaJeSTic BUilDiNG haS STooD.

oPeNeD DooRS, have GiveN ShelTeR To MeMBeRS, viSiToRS, aND To STRaNGeRS PaSSiNG BY.

ThiS ReMaiNiNG PillaR, ReFleXeS; a leGacY oF MaNY,

FRoM WiThiN ThiS NeiGhBoRhooD...iF iTS WallS coUlD SPeaK; WhaT a

hiSToRY TheY WoUlD RelaTe,

oF hoW The chURch haS BeeNNURTUReD aND MaiNTaiNeD, BY a

FloW oF DeDicaTeD MeMBeRS,MiNiSTeRS, PaSToRS, MiSSioNaRieS

aND PRelaTeS.PReachiNG The WoRD, While

SeRviNG The NeeDY; all oF TheM; GUaRDiaNS, Who

have STooD aT The GaTeS.

ToDaY We GaTheR, iN The NaMe oF oUR “FaTheR”, UP aBove;

FoR, iT haS BeeN ThRU hiS GUiDaNce, hiS BleSSiNG aND hiS

love;ThaT FoR 85 YeaRS oUR chURch

haS STooD.

GRaND aND hUMBlY, iT coNTiNUeS To STaND;

RePReSeNTiNG, a PeaceFUl SaNcTUaRY, WiThiN

ThiS olD NeiGhBoRhooD.

The chocolaTe voice | 13

lettersPublisher

lettersPublisher

To The

Big DealBy: Carrie L. Howell

What about a peanut butter sandwich sharing wheel.

a man almost approaching the steel millanticipating how much he can steal.

Madam it is only one more day, then the fi ght will end.

We all will realize who really pretends.The one who win will face the trend.Secured safely and chosen to serve.

Knowingly he cannot fi x all unnerved.Worldly treasure he deserves.

The means and ways of correctinga whole world full of reckoning

Many ways set forth already workingProblems created by an expansion of time

Some critical issues solved by nine.Sitting in selected groups of twain

Swim or sinkNever will he stink

Flashing a handsome bright eyed winDow Jones

Failed to bare bonesSnatched from those who owned

investments taken paid to oneDow Jones lost their tone

The song they sang was not wonit is mixed

could not be fi xedPeople were tickedTry as they mightall into the night

everyone fi rstFrom the White house

Stood a handsome spouseProudly standing like Ms. Rouse

in the middle of millionsexpressed to many about trillionsFailed to come up with the zillions

Runaway to meet with BushSweating hard in a great big rushNothing gained from all the mush

This is an excerpt from a epic poem written to my dear Mother about the election won by our

President, Barack obama.

Dear chocolate voice

The ebony Fashion Fair, the traveling show of haute couture fashion that has been presented in Tucson for more than 30 years, has been suspended by Johnson Publishing co. inc., the producer the annual show. The Tucson alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority inc. was the local sponsor of the show.„For more than 50 years, ebony Fashion Fair has helped sustain the important efforts of community organizations, as we worked together to raise more than $55 million in support of local charities. With the untimely death of Mrs. eunice W. Johnson, ebony Fashion Fair’s producer and director, we have arrived at a most diffi cult decision to suspend the spring 2010 season,“ said linda Johnson Rice, chairman and ceo of the publishing company, in a message posted on the ebony Fashion Fair Web site.

Chyrl Hill Lander

14 | The chocolaTe voice

Out and About in February

JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 14, 2010Tucson Fossil and Gem ShowTucson Convention Center100 S Church Ave.

FEBRUARY 3 - 6The University of Arizona Hanson Film Instituteand the School of Media Arts presenta four-day Symposium at The University of Ari-zona

FEBRUARY 6African American Student Parent Conference9am – 2 pmOtay Ranch High SchoolChula Vista, CA619-585-7800

FEBRUARY 13 @ 7:30 PMValentine’s Homecoming ConcertDiane SchuurTwo time Grammy winning vocalistWestin La PalomaTucson, AZwww.azentertainmentandevents.com520-429-9803

February 16Mardi Gras in the Gaslamp6 pm – MidnightSan Diego619-233-5227

February 217pm-10pmMy Little Black DressDunbar 325 W. 2nd St. Tucson, AZTicket Price $10.00R.S.V.P. by 2/16/10520-882-5004

February 27Heritage Day Parade and FestivalSan Diego, CA619-262-0334

February 28th, 2010African American Alumni AssociationLos Angeles Chapter * Scholarship CommitteeART AUCTION2:00 PM Viewing 3:00 PM Bidding BeginsRegency West3339 West 43rd Street in Leimert ParkLos Angeles, CARSVP: 323-295-0888

(520) 790-0038