‘Follies’ Good Time

Date posted: April 20, 2024

More than a half-century after arriving on Broadway, a legendary production marks its Las Vegas premiere

The “FOLLIES” will have six performances April 11-14 2024 at the Access Showrooms at Aliante Casino & Hotel.

With a mammoth cast and crew of over 80 talented professionals, FOLLIES will include a mind-blowing collection of 45 dazzling performers, a dozen legendary showgirls, a live 26-piece orchestra and many of Las Vegas’s best singers, dancers and performers.

“FOLLIES” will feature special appearances by Tony Award nominee and Broadway legend Andrea McArdle, in her “FOLLIES” debut. “Tonight Show” icon and comedian Pete Barbutti; singer, songwriter and quintessential entertainer Grammy nominee Clint Holmes and his wife, the sensational singer/performer/comedian Kelly Clinton-Holmes; four-time Grammy winner (and First “Pip”) Merald “Bubba” Knight; internationally renowned opera sensation Frederica von Stade; Broadway legend Ted Chapin; and an introduction by legendary impressionist Rich Little.

“FOLLIES” will bring a dozen legendary Las Vegas showgirls back into the spotlight — including 97-year-old legend Anna Bailey, the first African-American showgirl on the Strip. Dancers who toured with the incomparable Gypsy Rose Lee and the immortal fan dancer Sally Rand will also be included.

The score for “FOLLIES” features many of Stephen Sondheim’s most brilliant theatrical creations, with iconic songs such as “I’m Still Here,” “Broadway Baby,” “Losing My Mind,” “Waiting for the Girls Upstairs,” and “Beautiful Girls.” It will be brought to life by the 26-piece JOI Jazz Orchestra with Strings, headed by music arranger and head of UNLV’s Jazz Department, Dave Loeb, as musical director.

The cast of “FOLLIES” features a plethora of magnificent entertainers, including Michelle Johnson (Las Vegas’s First Lady of Jazz, appearances with Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney and Elton John), Randal Keith (“Les Miserables,” “Spamalot,” Steve Wynn’s Showstoppers), and Sam Holder (“Oklahoma,” “Grease,” “South Pacific”) in lead roles.

This production of “FOLLIES” will also star a bevy of amazing singers and actors in standout roles, including the electric Skye Dee Miles, beloved Las Vegas performers Denise Rose, Linda Woodson, Tim Molyneux, Katy Monroe, Gabriella Versace, Michelle Marshall, Jenny Malcomb, and opera and musical theater vocalist Kate Kinhan.

Eight multi-talented Las Vegas dancers of today — all with vibrant performance backgrounds — will help to round out the 45-person cast, including former “Jubilee” principal dancer Brooke Brown, Rebecca O’Hara (“Jubilee”), Jennifer Jordan (“Vegas the Show”).

Also featured will be 97-year-old Anna Bailey, the first African-American showgirl ever to appear on the Las Vegas Strip. Ms. Bailey also performed at the legendary Moulin Rouge and with the incomparable Pearl Bailey.

Lou Anne Chessik commented, “As founder of the Showgirl Legacy Foundation, I’m thrilled that this production of ‘FOLLIES’ is going to feature a dazzling collection of some of Las Vegas’s most legendary showgirls. The showgirl was — and continues to be — the heartbeat of the city. Having an onstage reunion of these incredibly talented women who brought so much excitement, glamour and happiness to millions of Vegas visitors over the years is going to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience to everyone who attends ‘FOLLIES.’”

Tickets are now available at ShowgirlsComeHome.com, AlianteGaming.com or Ticketmaster.com. For additional information, please visit ShowgirlsComeHome.com

Beyond The Divide

Date posted:

By Kimberly Smith

African-Americans in the United States exhibit the lowest homeownership rates nationwide, highlighting significant economic disparities within the community. Homeownership plays a crucial role in building generational wealth, and the disparities observed may underscore broader socioeconomic challenges faced by African-Americans.

Comparatively, homeownership rates among other racial and ethnic groups illustrate varying degrees of disparity. White Americans typically experience higher rates of homeownership, ranging between 50% to 81%. Similarly, Asians exhibit homeownership rates ranging from 28% to 76%, while Hispanics fall within the range of 27% to 67%.

However, the homeownership rates among African-Americans lag significantly behind, ranging from 15% to 55%. This disparity of homeownership rates indicates a substantial gap in wealth accumulation and access to economic opportunities within the African-American community.

Various factors contribute to these disparities, including historical injustices such as redlining, which limited access to housing and mortgage loans for African-Americans. Additionally, systemic barriers like income inequality, discriminatory lending practices, and disparities in educational and employment opportunities further exacerbate the challenges faced by African-Americans in achieving homeownership.

Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive efforts, including policies aimed at increasing access to affordable housing, combating discriminatory practices in the housing market, promoting financial literacy and homeownership education within the African-American community, and fostering economic opportunities to narrow the wealth gap.

By addressing the root causes of economic disparities and implementing targeted interventions, policymakers and communities can work towards creating a more equitable society where homeownership is accessible to all, regardless of race or ethnicity.

I proudly guide my clients through a comprehensive education which makes for a delightful experience. Let’s explore available down payment assistance programs and funds. You will have to qualify for the programs. Take action today for a brighter real estate journey!

Homeownership is possible! Please call me, the Queen of Real Estate! Kimberly Smith | 702-291-7098 | www.kimberlysmith.realtor | NV.Lic. No. BS.146388

Helping families achieve dreams of higher education

Date posted:

BLACK EXCELLENCE: DR. TYA R. MATHIS-COLEMAN

Dr. Tya R. Mathis-Coleman currently serves as Deputy Treasurer overseeing the College Savings Division of the State Treasurer’s Office. Responsible for helping Nevadans plan, save, and pay for post-secondary education, Dr. Mathis-Coleman is proud to work for an organization with the same values as her own. Believing in the tremendous impact that adults can have on young people, Dr. Mathis-Coleman strives every day to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

A native of Las Vegas, Dr. Mathis-Coleman is a proud product of the Clark County School District and the Nevada System of Higher Education. She received her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno and she received both her master of public administration and doctor of public policy degrees from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Named “40 Under 40” by Vegas Inc. in 2017 and “Far-West Soror of the Year” in 2019 by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she has received several other awards for her commitment to public service. Dr. Mathis-Coleman’s most rewarding experience comes from serving as a part-time instructor at UNLV. She enjoys working with her undergraduate students each semester.

Serving on the Board of Directors for CASA, L.I.O.N. and the UNLV Alumni Association, Dr. Mathis-Coleman also volunteers with BCON, Les Femmes Douze débutante program, and the Junior League of Las Vegas.

KNIGHT MOVES | April, may it be a delightful month

Date posted:

BY CRAIG KNIGHT

What a hectic month April is already turning out to be! It brings springtime, tax season, the start of the second quarter, April showers (though we’ve got more than our fair share), allergy season (ah-choo! God bless you), even the culmination of March Madness. Thrilling!

We also celebrate a few awareness months in April: Autism Acceptance Month, Stress Awareness Month, Earth Month, Alcohol Awareness Month, and Arab American Heritage Month are the five that typically garner the greatest media coverage.

April Fools’ Day is a popular day. Regretfully, we also honor soul legend Marvin Gaye, who was tragically shot and killed by his own father 40 years ago on April 1, 1984 — one day short of his 45th birthday. I remember it was some time before people believed he had died, because it happened on April Fools’ Day.

We commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 assassination on April 4. Traditionally, many in the Black community observe the moment by driving with headlights on during the day.

We honor the 50th anniversary of a very significant event in American sports history on April 8: the day in 1974 that Major League Baseball legend Henry “Hank” Aaron smashed Babe Ruth’s previous record of 714 home runs! We were living in Manhattan at the time; I was nine years old and was lying on the floor with my hands supporting my head while watching television. I vividly remember being present for this momentous occasion! And why did I find this so fascinating? There was news that Mr. Aaron was getting death threats while he was getting close to breaking Ruth’s record; racism was still a problem during that era. Even as young kids, we were made aware of what was going on, and wondered if Mr. Aaron would give up and not jeopardize his life by stopping at 713 home runs. Many of us were inspired to be great at all costs by his daring in tying the record at 714 and then smashing it with his 715th home run! Still, it’s no surprise to me that bigotry, stupidity, and tomfoolery can still be found in 2024, 50 years later.

(In other April news, how fascinating it is that we will see a solar eclipse on that same day, April 8.)

Lastly, April 12 will be mom’s 82nd trip around the sun! Happy Born Day Queen Mary of NY!

Until next time: educate yourself and share the knowledge with others! God bless you!

YOU! HAVE THE POWER | Self-Empowerment: A Journey You Want to Explore

Date posted:

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

In today’s world, there are many external influences dictating how we perceive our future. Self-empowerment is a force that can serve as a beacon of light to guide us toward a path of true goal achievement, confidence and happiness.

Self-empowerment leads us to the goals we seek — which may include re-discovery of goals, resilience, and both personal and professional growth. It is a journey that results in changing the vision of personal power from waiting on others to “if it is to be, it must be ME.”

The belief in ME becomes your own ability to navigate life’s challenges, make choices aligned with your own personal values, pursue your own aspirations with unwavering determination and develop a profound sense of self-awareness. We gain clarity about our values, goals, and aspirations — which lays the foundation for meaningful growth and transformation. This process is not always easy; it requires courage. We must confront limiting beliefs, past traumas, and even society’s expectations. It is through this journey of self-exploration that we can unlock our true potential.

Self-empowerment also involves taking ownership of one’s choices and actions, recognizing it as the key to creating the desired outcome. Instead of being passive bystanders, the self-empowered actively participate in shaping their reality by being proactive. This sense of ownership empowers individuals to set meaningful goals, develop action plans, and persevere in the face of challenges — knowing that they have the power to create positive change in their lives.

Building your self-empowerment is not a solitary journey; it thrives in communities of support, collaboration, and encouragement. Surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who uplift, inspire, and challenge is essential for sustaining momentum on the path to self-empowerment. Whether through mentorship, coaching, or peer support groups, seeking guidance and encouragement from others can provide valuable insights, accountability, and perspective along the journey.

In conclusion, self-empowerment is a transformative journey. It allows you to create and develop the parts that culminate in personal achievement and fulfillment. By embracing authenticity, cultivating resilience, and taking ownership of choices, you unlock true potential that creates the life you envision. Empowered individuals not only uplift themselves but also inspire others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. In a world where external influences abound, the power of self lies within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.

Dr. Ellen Brown enjoys sharing YOUR stories and writing on topics that encourage, enlighten, and invite discussion that leads to Action. Ellen welcomes your ideas and stories on how you use your Power! Ebrown.nci@gmail.com

HEALTHIER YOU: Putting a focus on Black maternal health

Date posted:

BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN

Black Maternal Health Week is recognized each year from April 11-17, bringing attention and action to improving the health of Black mothers.

Each year in the United States, hundreds of people die during pregnancy or in the year after. Thousands more have unexpected outcomes of labor and delivery with serious short-or long-term health consequences. Every pregnancy related death is tragic — especially because more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. are preventable. Many pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented by recognizing urgent maternal warning signs, providing timely treatment, and delivering respectful, quality care.

Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. Multiple factors contribute to these disparities — such as variation in quality healthcare, underlying chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias. Social determinants of health prevent many people from racial and ethnic minority groups from having fair opportunities for economic, physical, and emotional health.

In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, here are some tips to support pregnant people in your life in reducing factors that contribute to pregnancy-related complications and death:

● Talk to a healthcare provider if anything doesn’t feel right or is concerning about one’s pregnancy.

● Know and seek immediate care if experiencing any of the urgent maternal warning signs, including severe headache, extreme swelling or hands or face, trouble breathing, heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge, overwhelming tiredness, and more. These symptoms could indicate a potentially life-threatening complication.

● Share recent pregnancy history during each medical care visit for a period up to one year after delivery.

● Connect with healthcare and social support systems before, during, and after pregnancy.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but treatments are available for the symptoms and problems it causes. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options or call Innovative Women’s Care at (702) 413-7740.

Library District Breaks Ground on New 40,000 square-foot West Las Vegas Library

Date posted: March 25, 2024

State-of-the-art library doubles the size of the existing branch, and will serve as a new hub for literacy, learning, and community.

The West Las Vegas Library has served as a community anchor to the Historic Westside for 50 years. The Las Vegas-Clark County Library District announced that the West Las Vegas Library’s role in the community is expanding — with a new 41,178 square-foot, state-of-the-art branch.

A groundbreaking celebration was held February 27 at 1861 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, the location of the new library. It is slated to open in Fall 2025.

HEALTHIER YOU: Living with endometriosis

Date posted:

BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Endometriosis is when tissue like the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It may affect more than 11% of American women between 15 and 44. It is especially common among women in their 30s and 40s, and may make it harder to get pregnant.

Several different treatment options can help manage the symptoms and improve your chances of getting pregnant. Symptoms of endometriosis can include:

● Pain, which is the most common symptom. Women with endometriosis may have various kinds of pain, including:

● Very painful menstrual cramps

● Chronic (long-term) pain in the lower back and pelvis.

● Pain during or after sex

● Intestinal pain

● Painful bowel movements or pain when urinating during menstrual periods.

● Bleeding or spotting.

● Infertility

● Stomach (digestive) problems

YOU! HAVE THE POWER | The love story of Medgar and Myrlie Evers

Date posted:

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

EVERYTHING! That is what love has to do with it.

MSNBC personality Joy-Ann Reid came to Las Vegas on Feb. 17 for a discussion of her bestseller “Medgar and Myrlie” — a powerful, true love story set against the backdrop of s tumultuous, dangerous time for Black America.

Reid was the keynote speaker for the 111th Year Founder’s Day of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., hosted at the Sahara Hotel by the Las Vegas Alumnae Chapter (Dr. Rebecca Rogers, President). An honorary Delta, Reid shared gifts of knowledge and power about the work and commitment of Medgar and Myrlie, who helped create a stronger foundation of love at a time when hate threatened to consume America. “The ReidOut” host spoke about focusing a lens of truth on the civil rights legends, whose stories did not begin and end when Medgar was assassinated in 1963 at the age of 37. Even though truths behind this hateful act have emerged over the past 61 years, it can never be enough or forgotten.

In her book, Reid documents how common it was for whites to kill Blacks and face a system of justice that looked the other way. Unequal economics, assassinations, “separate-but-equal” education, lack of voting rights, unequal economics and more led to Mississippi being labeled as the most terrorized state in the country. An eye-opener in Reid’s book is her commentary on how Blacks always had to “move out” to find justice and safety.

At the center of it all, though, is a love story. Myrlie wanted to be a housewife and a mother. Her love for her husband, his civil rights work, and safety for their children compelled her to do what women do: get involved to protect her home and family. When Medgar was assassinated, Myrlie realized even more the significance of supporting the movement. A widow with three children at the age of 30 Myrlie could not ignore the wrongs and would not move to another place.

Not totally sure their agenda lined up with hers — and angry with a system that led to her husband being assassinated and leaving behind a wife and three children — she joined the movement of the NAACP. Myrlie committed herself to the civil rights movement providing for her the common platform needed to affect change to this day. Myrlie continued her love story with Medgar as she learned how to become a civil rights widow.

Reid masterfully shares how her own love story of justice, freedom and hope works for her. It is centered on a belief that every human being is entitled to first-class citizenship, freedom, and hope. Rev Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in his 1963 “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” wrote, “Freedom is never given voluntarily by the oppressor. You must demand it, for it will not be given freely.”

Fostering Hope: Court Appointed Special Advocates Volunteers Making A Difference

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By Dr. Lisa Morris-Hibbler

In a world where hardships are commonplace, one of the most tragic facts is the existence of kids who wind up in the foster care system. These young people are already dealing with difficulties that most adults would find incomprehensible, and now they have to endure the turbulent trip through the unknowns of foster care. The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers are a beacon of love and hope in these turbulent waters, giving children the precious gift of quality time and, most importantly, an opportunity for a better future. CASA volunteers have professional careers such as teachers, nurses, lawyers, realtors, business and government leaders, and retirees.

In Clark County, there are more than 3,000 children placed in foster care due to circumstances beyond their control. These children struggle with the uncertainties of their future while carrying the emotional scars of their past — be it abuse, neglect, or other unfavorable circumstances. For them, the presence of a CASA volunteer, like me, is frequently the first sign of stability in an unstable environment. The Eighth Judicial Court- CASA Program has 400 volunteers that represent nearly 1,000 children annually. The goal, of course, is to have enough CASA volunteers to ensure that every child can be assigned an advocate.

CASA volunteers have a real impact on the lives of the children they serve. Studies have shown that children with CASA volunteers are more likely to be reunified with their families and placed in permanent homes sooner.

A Glimpse into the Lives of Foster Children

Before I share my story, it is important to understand the difficulties and complexities that foster children face. These kids are frequently exposed to terrible events and are suddenly thrown into an unknown and frightening world. They could feel abandoned and lost since they are cut off from their homes, family, and everything they once knew. Their emotional and psychological well-being may be seriously impacted by the emotional turmoil and instability they experience.

Many foster children are shuffled from one placement to another, which disrupts any sense of consistency in their lives. It is not uncommon for these children to change schools frequently, making it difficult for them to form meaningful relationships with peers or teachers. This lack of stability can have a lasting impact on their educational and emotional development.

Moreover, the foster care system itself can be a daunting labyrinth of bureaucracy and legal proceedings. For a child, navigating this system can be overwhelming and confusing. This is where the CASA volunteers come in, offering a steady hand, consistent presence, and a caring heart to guide these children through the challenges they face.

Case Assignments: My Experience as a CASA Volunteer

Upon finishing my CASA volunteer training, I was immediately assigned a case. My nerves started setting in as I thought about the first meeting. Would the children accept me, would they want to meet yet another stranger? Our training prepared us for this day — but now, I would be put to the test. When I accepted my first case as a CASA volunteer, I was assigned an African-American sibling group of three. They had been placed with a family member. I was so glad the children were able to stay together and keep their bond intact. So often, siblings are separated when a suitable placement cannot be readily identified. As their CASA advocate, I was determined to provide the consistency and support they so desperately needed.

Our first meeting began with snacks and a conversation. I learned about their favorite hobbies, their dreams, and fears. We spent time doing homework, going to fun activities, playing sports, video games, and eating at various restaurants. Through these seemingly ordinary moments, I began to see beautiful personalities flourish and bright smiles emerge.

Over time, I saw the positive impact that my consistent presence had on this family’s life. They began to open up, sharing their thoughts and feelings more freely. Their confidence grew, and they started to believe in their own potential. I attended school meetings and academic conferences to ensure the children were on track and accessing the resources they needed. By the time the case was closed and their relative became their legal guardian, the children were in a stable and loving home, involved in extracurricular activities, and academically doing well.

Two years later, I was assigned to my second case advocating for an African American sibling group of four. The children are not Nevada residents and I am working with Family Services to get them reunited with family in another state. Weekly, I make visits to Child Haven to check on the children. Child Haven is a specialized campus that provides congregate care to children who are placed in protective custody or awaiting placement and keep siblings together.

Serving as a CASA volunteer is undoubtedly rewarding, it is not without its challenges. There were moments when I felt frustrated by the complexities of the foster care system, the education system hurdles, and the heart-wrenching stories of the children I encountered. However, these challenges only fueled my determination to advocate for the best interests of my CASA kids.

My personal experience as a CASA volunteer has been a profound and life-changing one. I have learned that with dedication, empathy, and unwavering support, we can be the catalyst for positive change in the lives of these vulnerable children. The smiles, the moments of laughter, and the remarkable resilience I’ve witnessed in the children I have served have been my greatest rewards. Every day, I am reminded of the importance of having a consistent, caring adult in the life of a foster child. I have seen firsthand how being that one significant person can make all the difference, offering hope, support, and the promise of a better future.