Catawba Care observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

http://www.nationalblackaidsday.org

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, black people account for 44% of the new infections. As a way to educate blacks about the disease and promote testing, the nation recognized the annual Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on February 7. Community organizations and groups gathered to share information with the community about the disease, the importance of early testing and safe sex practices.

In Rock Hill, Catawba Care hosted an annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event in observation of the national initiative to encourage Blacks to “get educated, get tested, get involved, and get treated” (CatawbaCare.org). This year’s free event featured food, door prizes, entertainment, health screenings and HIV testing for the Rock Hill and surrounding area communities.

Catawba Care serves a little over 500 patients, the executive director Anita Case, LMSW said.

Case explained the importance to get tested regularly.

The earlier individuals are tested, the more likely they are to live a healthy life, she said.

The event featured various community organizations who shared educational information to the attendees. One of the organizations attending the event was StatusBoiz, in collaboration with StatusGurlz, is an organization that provides “HIV prevention and education program in North and South Carolina for Black men and Transgender Women.” The organization’s goal is “to work together to find effective ways to HIV prevention” (StatusBoiz.com).

The project director Darrin Johnson said their main purpose is to reduce the infection rates in the community. This is similar to Catawba Care’s purpose, who the organization has partnered with in the past.

Back in July, Always PHREA featured Catawba Care Prevention Specialist Alton Murray, who is one of the planners of the program, held last Saturday.

Murray explained during his PHREAdom Leader interview that the reality is people are having sex which makes safe sex education necessary. Therefore, it is important to reach out into the community and educate black people.

For more information about Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day or Catawba Care, please visit http://nationalblackaidsday.org and http://www.catawbacare.org.

Always PHREA founder Crystal Starkes, left, with her soror supporting the event.
Sigma Gamma Rho has a national HIV/AIDS initiative called A3 for Life.

Burr, it's Cold Outside: Tips to Enjoy a Snow/Ice Day

Burr, it’s cold outside and I’m not going outside unless it’s necessary. I have a free day off from work, and I don’t have to use my vacation time (grown up issues) so I’m going to enjoy every bit of it. Unless you are an extreme outdoors person, you can do so much in your home during a time like this. If you are twiddling your thumbs trying to figure out how to spend your snow/ice day, here are some ideas:

1)      Make it a Movie Day.

Pop some popcorn, pour a glass of your favorite wine, and watch all of your favorite movies. When was the last time you’ve seen the unedited version of Love Jones or Love & Basketball, this is the perfect day to watch it.

2)      Read a Book.

Have you read a good book lately? I personally have at least four books that I purchased from Goodwill a few months ago to read and now is a great time to do so. As a matter of fact, if you want a quick yet great read, you should check out my sorority sister Britni Danielle’s novella called Turn It Loose.

3)      Chat with some old friends.

When’s the last time you talked to old so and so from years ago? This is a great time to reconnect with friends or even talk to your close friends.

4)      Write it out.

This is for my fellow writers. If you are trying to find the time to write your latest masterpiece or even think about it, why not use the time that you are stuck in the house composing your latest work. I’m definitely taking advantage of it.

5)      Do absolutey nothing.

We all need a day to just do nothing. Turn off your phones, tv, computers and just relax. There’s nothing wrong with it either.

Be safe out there friends!

Starkey

PHREAdom Leader: Brandon Thomas

Brandon Thomas

It’s your birthday, the day you celebrate another year of life and existence in this world. You receive Facebook notifications, text messages, phone calls and gifts from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Your birthday is the time to commemorate you. However, the first PHREAdom Leader of 2014 chose otherwise.

On January 8, Winthrop University alum Brandon Thomas celebrated his 28^th birthday. When people asked him what he wanted, he said he felt like a jerk because he didn’t need anything and knew there were people who were without clothes, shelter, and food. It was then when he realized what he wanted for his special day.

Thomas, an academic advisor at the University of New Hampshire, decided he was going to raise awareness for the homeless veterans of the United States. He remembered attending a conference two years ago when one of the speakers shared information about the number of homeless United States veterans.

“The stats were amazing because these are the people who fought for us and [we] kind of swaddled them. They get out of the military and struggle to get back into society,” he said.

The current New Market, New Hampshire resident always knew he wanted to do something different. He wanted explore new places and meet new people. He wanted to challenge himself.

GoFundMe birthday for the homeless

With the help of social media and crowd funding, Thomas created a challenge to fast for 24 hours and raise $300 on his birthday. The member of Omega Psi Phi shared his challenge with his thousands of social media friends and network to join in on the cause.

His last meal was at 10 p.m. on January 7, and he didn’t eat again until 8 a.m. the following morning, he said.

He told himself that if he was going to create the challenge then he was going to go all in. He wanted to experience what it felt like to not be able to eat.

Around 5 or 6, he experienced the hunger struggle and knew he had access to food. He felt bad because there were some people who don't have a meal to eat, he said. 

While Thomas fasted, many supporters were making donations towards the cause.  He reached the goal by 12:45 p.m. the next day.  A total of $502 was raised for the Homeless Veterans of Dallas, which has one of the highest numbers of vets living on the streets.

“I was really impressed,” he said. “Some people shared with their friends and I receive donations by people who don’t know me.”

Thomas’ initiative wasn't about the money. 
"It was about raising awareness," Thomas said. 

The purpose of the challenge did not end after his birthday. He wants people to feel the impact of his work and dedication towards making a difference.

“Because of me, 20 people are able to eat another day,” Thomas explained. “If I can be selfless for 24 hours to give to someone else…on a day special to me…[his birthday] meant more.”

Passion to help others

The academic advisor is passionate about helping others through different facets including his service and meeting new people.

You never know someone’s struggle, but just by interacting with them can make a difference, he said.

The smallest thing that someone does change another person's day, he said. “I want to change the world one day at a time.”

Hope to spread care to the next man

Oftentimes, individuals get caught in the moment, but fail to care about the next man, the 28-year-old explained.

“I can think of 1000 people, I owe a lot of what I do to them,” Thomas said. “They were hard on me, but it prepared me for today.”

Respect is culturally different

Thomas believes that respect is culturally different depending on the person. Respect is about paying homage to those that came before you, he said.

Growing up, the Winthrop graduate’s family always told him to make sure he made them proud. Everything he does is a reflection of that message instilled in him at a young age growing up in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“Respect is not really about you, but those around you,” he said.

Empowered to teach young people

Thomas, who received his bachelors’ degree in English and masters’ in Sports & Fitness Administration, became empowered to teach young individuals. While obtaining his graduate degree, he served as a graduate assistant at Winthrop University for two years. He loves the university atmosphere and connecting with people. This led to his current role as a advisor and ultimately a role model to young people.

“I gotta be a good role model,” Thomas said. “I need to be a walking example.”

He was empowered by the people who impacted his life because they actually care.

“I realized that people actually gave a shit and they didn’t have to,” he said.

Emptying pocket of ambitions

Everyone has some type of ambitions, and Thomas is no different. Although he tries not to think too far ahead, he wants to make a difference in the world and keep a smile on his face. He wants to eventually start his doctorate program and go from there.

“I got a list of goals in my pocket,” he said.

One of his favorite quote is “life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you deal with it,” Thomas said meaning that “no matter what happens you can overcome it and see the brighter side.”

Happy Birthday Zora!

Source

In a subdivision of New York City called Harlem, Blacks migrated to the North from the South in 1919. They sought a place to settle and develop self-identity as the New Negro (http://www.infoplease.com/spot/bhmharlem1.html). Through art and creative expression individuals birthed the Harlem Renaissance. The Harlem Renaissance introduced many writers, poets, singers and leaders who would leave a mark in today’s society. These individuals include: Langston Hughes, Jean Toomer, Madame C. J. Walker, Marcus Garvey and my favorite Zora Neale Hurston.

Today is her birthday. I decided to recognize her and her great works like Their Eyes Were Watching God. According to an article by Noah Rayman, the novel is recognized as one of the top novels of the 20^th century (http://newsfeed.time.com/2014/01/07/zora-neale-hurston-google-doogle/).

Hurston faced many adversities as a young black writer who moved from Eatonville, Fla. to Harlem in 1925. It didn’t stop her. My favorite quote is “My eyes and my mind keep taking me where my old legs can’t keep up.” My depiction of this quote is that her thoughts moving a thousand miles per hour. Although she died in poverty, I truly admire this woman because regardless of her struggle, she didn’t let anything hold her down. She left home at 14. She worked odds and ends jobs until she was able to find something that worked for her. In an article by Amy Hubbard, she referenced Carla Kaplan from a piece on the Los Angeles Times who said, “Hurston was, in her own terms, ‘bodacious’ – bold, pioneering, and always brave about stepping into the public sphere.” Boldness takes strength, and Hurston was that. She didn’t give up on her dream, and neither can I.

I thank women like Hurston who helped paved the way for writers like myself to continue fulfilling the dream of creative expression through words. Happy Birthday Zora!

Always PHREA: Year in Review

If I could describe 2013 in one word, I would say it was purposeful! I realized going into the year that this would be monumental, but it was just the beginning. I had four main goals this year: 1) expand my blog, 2) build my network, 3) switch careers and 4) find a church. I can truly say I was able to experience each of those goals this year! 

Always PHREA is my breath of fresh air! 

I love where my blog is and where it is going. On May 29, I went on a quest to begin interviewing young leaders or individuals who are making a difference in the lives of others. The PHREAdom Leaders took off with my soror Jessica Ross, who is a multiple sclerosis survivor. I wasn’t sure what to expect from my readers, but I knew that because of my work and belief in giving back I needed to feature individuals who shared a common value. Needless to say, I finished this year with 10 PHREAdom Leaders! I truly have to thank those leaders who gave me the opportunity to share their story. They were: Ross, Shantelle Igiozee, Ashley Nash, Alton J. Murray, John Harris III, Curtis Walls, Brittany Yates, Ashley Gonzalez, Daniel D. and Austin Smith.

Last year, I blogged 8 times. However, this year I blogged 22 times!! I wanted to expand my blog to offer more, and I was able to do just that! I’m really excited to see where Always PHREA and I go next year! I’m continuing to discover the endless possibilities and Bee PHREA!

Network makes the Dream Work

I can honestly say that I’ve always been a relatively shy woman. I didn’t socialize much with people outside of my normal circle. However, I considered it a challenge to build my network. I was very apprehensive, but I knew it was necessary. I started attending different events on my own. I joined two groups (the #GOALDiggers Project and Bloggers Like Me) on Facebook, which has definitely helped me to grow as a writer, blogger and businesswoman. Next year, I want to network more and meet new people.

One Door Closes

In September, I received word that my company was closing the Charlotte office. I could say that I was upset, but I really wasn’t. I was trying to find a way to leave there, but I am such a loyal worker that I didn’t know how to do so. Isn’t it funny how God works? He knew the only way I would leave to find something better for me is by forcing me out. I spent 60 days job searching and went on six different job interviews. I was determined to not be jobless when I left there, and I wasn’t. I received my job offer the day before my last day at my old job. I am so thankful because I found a career. I love every bit of this new opportunity. It’s truly a perfect combination of Crystal – the server, the writer and the educator.

Spiritual Feeding

There’s something about a spiritual feeding that just does your body good! I’ve been in Charlotte for the almost four years now, and I can finally say that I’ve found a church that fits me perfectly.

I was searching for purpose this year, and I believe I’ve found it in different ways. I can’t wait for 2014 to arrive so that I can make more moves because the best is yet to come. #BeePHREA

<3 Starkey

PHREAdom Leader: Austin Smith, Founder of Nitsua Creations

In six days, Austin Smith will wrap up his undergraduate career and walk across the stage to receive his bachelor's degree in Digital Information Design with a concentration in Digital Commerce. This moment almost didn't happen. Smith said he was focused on the wrong things his freshman year at Winthrop University and his grades suffered.
“It was a wake up call,” Smith said.
He contemplated enlisting in the military instead of returning back to complete his college degree. However, after consulting with his parents, he thought it was worth another shot to try another year with a different attitude and perspective.
Smith changed his major from graphic design to fit the new market of digital information and changed his entire mindset. This was his second chance so he treated his sophomore year as if it was his freshman year all over again, he said. The Lexington, S.C. native used his past situations and circumstances to push forward towards his goals and future.
The Leader & Mentor
As a young leader, he became actively involved in different student organizations including The Gentlemen’s League which is a male service oriented group where he served as a re-charter member, NAACP, Student Alumni Council and student improv Skin Deep.
“In order to be a leader, you also have to be a follower,” the past vice president of The Gentlemen’s League said.
Smith was influenced by Winthrop University alumni Kambrell Garvin and Ted Jones.
“Kambrell Garvin was a big influence in my life,” he said. “He taught me that people are always watching.”
Ted Jones, graduated last year, but he encouraged Smith to get involved.
This made it easy for Smith to mentor young members of The Gentlemen's League and York County youth at Ebenezer Academy. The 22-year-old said he thought outside the box when he mentored young individuals.
“I asked them to set five goals,” Smith said in both life and education because “college ends quick and reality hits you.”
Nitsua, the mindset of a king
Smith always had an interest in graphic design since high school. He wasn't quite sure how he would be able to continue utilizing those skills after changing his major. The program focus on a combination of media, social media and internet marketing, he explained. He finished a capstone course with The Hive in Rock Hill where he and his other classmates created Web sites for local organizations and developed experience using search engine optimization and Google ad words. 
However, he realized there were other ways to use his gift from God. He started serving as the co-chair then later the chair of the public relations committee for The Gentlemen's League where he designed the organization's new logo, t-shirts and promotional materials. His graphic experience led to more opportunities for him to expand his skills into a freelance graphic designer. This year, he created Nitsua Creations which specialize in developing the creative needs of clients through logos, t-shirt designs, flyers and other promotional items within the Winthrop University community and surrounding areas.
Nitsua is Austin spelled backwards because he wanted to put a twist on his Twitter, Instagram and ultimately his brand, he said.
"You find something different by making it and creating it (to be) your own," the designer continued.
The logo is a crown because he believes that he has the mindset of a king, but not in an "If I rule the world" Curtis Blow type of way. It's about creating a standard.
"You have to set yourself to a standard," Smith said. 

The founder of the company is uncertain its future because he doesn't want to speak too far ahead. However, Smith believes that God gave him the gift of graphic design, therefore, he plans to keep pushing until it stops.
"I'm going to keep my foot on the pedal," he said. 
Smith would like to explore different branches of Nitsua Creations to include music and photography which are all centered around a philanthropy.
Passion found through failures
The failures or unfortunate circumstances fuels Smith to keep moving. He believes in the cliche` expression that everything happens for a reason. Smith use those situations as fuel to succeed in life. 
As a high school basketball player, Smith learned that "it takes those failures to succeed," he shared. He was cut from the team his junior year of high school and broke his foot that same year, however, he made the team his senior year. 
Overall, Smith believes he is a truly passionate person. 
"It's not always through your words, but your actions as well," he said.
Hope to fulfill purpose
In life, the future alumnus hopes to reach his full potential and be successful at it. He also hope to fulfill his purpose and provide service to others.
He realized that everything he's received, it is through the support of others, Smith said.
Most importantly, he hopes to take care of his family - the one he will build in the future as well as his parents and brother who is currently a sophomore in high school.

"Respect yourself"
Smith's parents, who have been married for 27 years, taught him and his little brother to say yes sir and yes ma'am as a form of respect, but he doesn't see it in the younger generation. He believes that sense of respect is lost. 
Respect as a whole is huge, he said. "You always hear respect others, but you must also respect yourself."
They both tie together, he continued. 
In order to gain respect, one must create and set standards, Smith said.
Empowered through service
Smith is empowered by the ability to serve and mentor other individuals. 
"I am empowered by knowing I can help people," he said. "And knowing the impact is felt."
Ambitious for happiness
"I just want to be happy," Smith said. His happiness lies through developing his career, creating a family and impacting lives.  
After graduation, he would like to find a job that he loves going to everyday. He would like to focus on the social media, internet marketing, and e-commerce side. He doesn't want to be complacent when it comes to his career path because he understand there are seasons. Smith said that you have to keep pushing forward through those moments. He currently wants to continue residing in the Rock Hill/Charlotte area, and plans to give it his all. 
The family-oriented young man is ambitious about building his family with a complimentary person. 
"It's important to remember who I'm doing it for - my family," he said.
In everything Smith does, he wants it to be full of impact. This is evident through his brand Nitsua Creations, his civic work and his humility as a man. 

Find Austin Smith

Web Site: http://nitsuacreations.bigcartel.com/

Facebook: Austin G. Smith

Instagram: NitsuaCreations

Twitter: NitsuaCreations

Tis the Season to Give

Source

November and December are my favorite months of the year besides March. While others may enjoy these months for the variety of food, family gatherings, gift wrapping and holiday shopping, I enjoy the opportunity to give. You often hear it’s better to give than it is to receive, and I believe this is true. There’s something about the power of giving that just makes me feel like I made a difference in the lives of others afterwards.

I believe sometimes we become so wrapped in the cosmetics of the holidays that we forget about the small values and lessons learned through giving. The act of giving can be completed so effortlessly, but it can touch a magnitude of people. For instance, last year, I volunteered as a gift wrapper for Orphans to Ambassadors during the holiday season. This Saturday afternoon, I will be volunteering to provide a hot meal to the local area individuals who are in need. I know regardless if I volunteer for an hour or two, someone’s life will be impacted by the gift of service.  

If you are looking for ways to serve or give during this season, here are a few ideas:

Adopt-A-Family

You are able to provide them with food, purchase presents, or make a monetary contribution to assist them in their needs.

Donate your Winter Wear

Do you have a jacket that you or someone you know can no longer wear? Or did you find gloves on sale for $.50 during Black Friday this year? Can you crochet? This would be a great time to donate jackets, gloves, and scarves to those who cannot afford to on their own.

Visit a Senior

According to the Senior Source, the majority of senior citizens in nursing homes never get visitors. If you are unable to visit a senior, send him or her a holiday card.

Toy Drive

The Marine Toys for Toys and similar foundations collect gifts for children from financial hardship families. You can simply purchase a new toy especially during Black Friday for less than $5 and donate towards the cause. If you want to be really charismatic, you can orchestrate a toy drive at your local church or school to collect donations for children in need. They are also always looking for volunteers to assist in the sorting and filing process.

Adopt-A-Pet

Animals need love too! There are ways for pet lovers to give to these fun creatures. You can volunteer at an animal shelter working in the kennel, donate animal food, or even adopt a pet.

The gift of giving goes a long way. If you are interested in learning more about it, check out http://www.volunteermatch.org for more opportunities.