Abrakadoodle Mobile Art Program For Children Opens in Northwest Arkansas

By Terri Walker

 

"Creative art is for all time and is therefore independent of time. It is of all ages, of every land, and if by this we mean the creative spirit in man which produces a picture or a statue is common to the whole civilized world, independent of age, race, and nationality..."
-Alma Thomas, 1970

Alma Thomas 1891-1978
BS Fine Arts 1924 Howard University
Masters Art Education 1934 Columbia University

Alma Thomas was an African American artist who showed artistic skills and interest as a child, making sculptures and puppets at an early age. Today, her artwork is exhibited in the Obama’s private residence of the White House and she has been featured in Abrakadoodle’s creative art program for children. That’s why we’re excited to host a free demo art class by Abrakadoodle on Saturday, July 13th, from 3-4pm at the Bentonville Arts and Recreation Activity Center. This will be a fun opportunity for children and their parents to experience first-hand the award-winning art education program that is now available in our community. For detailed information on the event, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ebonykids.

 

Abrakadoodle is a mobile art education program for children ages 20 months to 12 years old.  The art classes, camps, and parties are offered at schools and community locations convenient to children and families. It has been in existence in the US since 2003. In the art classes, children learn to paint, sculpt, draw, design, sketch, and imagine- all in a fun atmosphere.

Earlier this year, Abrakadoodle opened its first franchise unit in Arkansas under the ownership of mother/daughter duo Cora and Joy Davis of Fayetteville. They will be providing a wide range of art programs including visual art classes, camps, workshops, in-school field trips, special events, and art parties at schools, community centers, faith-based locations, and other sites that serve children throughout NWA.

   

Joy Davis (left) and Cora Davis
 

Cora Davis, Director of Abrakadoodle NWA, is married to Paul Davis; she is a mother of three and grandmother of two young children.  She has 15 years of experience teaching kindergarten, and is currently working on her PhD in Public Policy and Education at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville.

Joy Davis, who has a BS in Biology and a Masters in Operations Management, discovered Abrakadoodle while reading a feature article about it in a business magazine, and she recognized a fit with their creative concept. She approached her mother, Cora, with the idea of operating the franchise and, fortunately, she enthusiastically agreed. They began the business in March of 2013.

Abrakadoodle-NWA Student

For more information about Abrakadoodle-NWA art programs, visit www.abrakadoodle.com/AR01 or contact Joy Davis at jdavis@abrakadoodle.com or via phone at 479-856-6651.

*It deserves mentioning that Abrakadoodle is a member of MinorityFran, which is an organization that was created to increase the awareness (and numbers) of franchising within minority communities.

The Umoja Soul Northwest Arkansas Writers Group- Representing the African American Writing Community

By Terri Walker

"If there is a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, you must be the one to write it."   Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison's quote may seem easier said than done, but it's not impossible! And there are many who not only feel the same way, but have put in the time and dedication to do just that. I'm impressed with the group of writers who make up a local writing group, Umoja Soul; not only are they successful published authors, but they focus on additional goals that support literacy, connect community, and affirm the African American culture. Read on to learn more about this group.



From left: Ms. Jones, Michael Lafears, Jr., and Rhonda Holmes at the Fayetteville Public Library's Umoja Soul NWA Author Event (8/18/12).

OVERVIEW

The Umoja Soul Northwest Arkansas Writers Group encourages unity, participation, and outreach throughout the African American NWA writing community. These published authors, poets, and writers have joined together to promote literacy in young people, consult with new authors, host book discussions throughout the community (local libraries and bookstores), and deliver speaking presentations in schools and community organizations. By empowering minority writers in NWA and promoting diverse voices and ideas, Umoja Soul seeks to strengthen and enrich the literary voice of NWA through their message of unity, inclusion, and literacy.

HISTORY

Umoja Soul was founded in June of 2012 by Leora Jones. (Her real name is Leora Jackson, but for performances or stage productions, she uses the name F.L. Jones)  At the time, she was trying to locally promote her book and was curious about what other local African American authors had done for promotion. Starting a search, she didn’t find much diversity in book clubs at the local libraries or within the community. She was referred to local published authors Michael Lafears, Jr. and Rhonda Holmes. The two of them agreed to join Ms. Jones and become the first members of Umoja Soul NWA Writers Group.
*The word umoja is Swahili for "unity."

CORE MEMBERS

Ms. Jones

Ms. Jones has published a poetry book entitled Candy Apple: A Diverse Collection of Poems. Romantic love, inspiration, black history, and deep spirituality are all displayed throughout the book. These poems will allow you to look deeper into the situations of life told through the eyes of a poet who has an excellent gift of perception. She enjoys writing articles about children's issues, disability issues, spirituality, romantic love, teenage problems, and current events. Her second book of poems, Cotton Candy: Sweet Poems for the Entire Soul, is available for purchase on amazon.com.

Mrs. Rhonda Holmes



Rhonda Holmes and her husband, Tracy Holmes



Mrs. Holmes is an inspirational writer and speaker. Her first book, The WORD Diet, is filled with affirmations and prayers that she refers to as tools that guide readers in turning struggles into victories by using their own words. The Word Diet is a winner of the Self Published Author - Christian Book Award and is endorsed by Kathy Ireland and the late E. Lynn Harris, among others.

Other publications in which her writing has been included are: African American Perspectives Magazine, Remembrances in Black: Personal Perspectives of the African American Experience at the University of Arkansas, and Reclaimed Inheritance Newsletter.

Purchase the new version of "The WORD Diet" at www.createspace.com/3943328 

"Like" at - www.facebook.com/TheWordDiet

Read More About "The WORD Diet" at:

www.theworddiet.blogspot.com
www.theworddietbook.com

Michael Lafears, Jr.

Author Michael Lafears, Jr, is originally from Alexandria, LA and currently lives in Bentonville, where he has resided for the past 6 years. His first book is Words From a Speaking Soul - Life's Unheard Cries. His poems are inspired by relationships, religion, love, loss, and politics. As a self-published African-American author, he hopes to inspire his readers and provide a positive spin on negative subject matters. In his book, Michael tells the story of life from various perspectives in order for the reader to truly hear the cries often unheard within the soul of a man.

His second book was recently released; an ebook entitled No Fears Fitness…Mind, Body, Spirit, which was written to inspire readers to live a better lifestyle by combining biblical principles and basic health facts.  Michael’s books can be ordered at amazon.com or authorhouse.com. 

CONTACT

For more information, you may contact the Umoja Soul NWA Writers Group at umojasoulnwa@yahoo.com.

Dr. Adesua Wejinya- Treating Allergies in NWA

by Terri Walker

I recently had the opportunity to briefly meet Dr. Wejinya, an Allergy and Immunology specialist located here in NWA. In the spirit of connecting community, I wanted to profile her on this week’s post.

 

 

Dr. Wejinya moved to NWA a little over a year ago from Madison, Wisconsin.  She attended undergrad at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas and she completed medical school at the University of Texas Southern Medical Center in Dallas.  It was during her fourth year of medical school during her rotations that she discovered her enjoyment in taking care of patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, eczema, hives, and autoimmune diseases; therefore, she chose to specialize in Allergy and Immunology.

Dr. Wejinya treats children, as well as adults, at Hedberg Allergy and Asthma Center, which has offices in both Rogers and Fayetteville.  “The residents of Northwest Arkansas experience significant more allergies than some other states so I enjoy most being able to make a difference in the lives of my patients when their symptoms are under control. On a personal note, I enjoy the friendliness of the residents of NWA.”

She is married to Dr. Uche Wejinya, a professor at the University of Arkansas. They are newly married with no children yet. “We love to travel, and our most fun life experiences so far have been zip-lining in Costa Rica during our honeymoon and climbing the Great Wall in Beijing, China.”

Look for Dr. Wejinya’s ad in the upcoming Black Business Directory of NWA set to debut this spring!!

How Are You Celebrating Black History Month in NWA?

By Terri Walker

 

“I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.” President Barack Obama

The above quote from Barack Obama was taken from his proclamation of February 2013 as National African American History Month. View the entire Proclamation here, which was released by the White House on January 31, 2013.

 

Having lived in NWA for the past four years, I must admit that I am feeling the absence of the NWA Black History Showcase this month! How are you celebrating? I have noticed ads in the local e-newsletters for a few Black History Month celebrations. (You can get on the listservs for NWA Black by sending an email to nwablack@gmail.com, and the University of Arkansas African American Resource Group Community Calender by by sending an email to dlw11@uark.edu.) Before we  (NWA Ebony Kids) decided to present an event for this month, I did my own search for celebrations specifically for kids and it came up sparse. I did find that Crystal Bridges is hosting an art-based weekly celebration, which is great. However, their program takes place during the school day which limits its participants to homeschoolers. If you're out there homeschoolers, I have placed the details below.

NWA Black History Month Celebrations for Kids

Bentonville Public Library on February 23^rd  12-3pm

"Black History Month Celebration"

NWA Ebony Kids is pleased to help present the Create-A-Craft segment of the program at 1pm!!
Check the Bentonville Public Library's website for more details.

Bentonville Public Library

 

Crystal Bridges Museum

Fridays, February 8, 15, 22, 2 to 3:30 pm
"Homeschool Friday Fun/Celebrate Black History Month"
Two age groups are offered: 5 to 9 and 10 to 13.
For more information, visit their website.

 

**Email or comment if you know of any other localBlack History Month celebrations for kids.

 

A BRIEF HISTORY ON BLACK HISTORY MONTH

• Black History Month was originally “Negro History Week”, celebrated during the second week of February because that week marks the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
• It was founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson along with the Association for the Study of Negro Life in 1926.
• In 1976, the federal government acknowledged the transition from Negro History Week to Black History Month.
• Black History Month is also federally recognized and celebrated in Canada since 1995 (in the month of February), and in the UK since 1987 (in the month of October).

 

Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson 1875-1950

 

Cool iPhone Apps for African American Children

By Terri Walker

All three of my kids (ages 3, 5, and 7) can maneuver through an iPhone or iPad like nobody’s business. Is it an innate ability with this younger generation? They require almost no instruction on these gadgets, just give it to them!  Well, if you’re like me, you have plenty of apps downloaded specifically for your kids– to keep them preoccupied, when necessary.  Although some of my apps are educational, most are not.  Because of this, I went on a quest to find apps that are not just fun and educational, but are cultural, as well. In the spirit of Black History Month, I wanted to share some of the cool apps for kids that I discovered which celebrate our culture AND help to build a positive self-image.

Black Inventors Match Game with Myles and Ayesha

Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, $0.99

This app specifically targets kids in teaching a portion of African American History by celebrating African American inventors. The match game consists of pictures of the inventions. If you tap the “read more” button on the detailed screen of each invention, you will see descriptions and actual patent drawings for each invention, signed by the inventor. Also, I discovered that the publisher of the app, Uplift, is a nonprofit organization founded and headed by an African American woman.

 

A Song for Miles

Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch $4.99

Written by Dr. Tiffany Simpkins Russell, A Song for Miles is the first African American digital storybook in the App Store that is written, illustrated, scored, narrated, and developed by African Americans.  With colorful illustrations, interactive musical instruments, and optional background music, this can be an enjoyment for children.  As you read the story from a parent’s point-of-view, you will discover that there are valuable lessons being taught, such as perseverance, confidence, and respect- to name a few.  The real treat to me is the fact that the beautiful dialogue takes place between a young African American  boy and his father.

 

Ashti Meets Birdman Al

Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch $0.99

I am truly glad I found this app, which is actually an e-book. Written by Carmen Rubin, a singer, author, and speaker, this book was inspired by Al Jarreau– the Grammy award winning jazz singer. Similar to A Song for Miles, this book has great illustrations and interactive animation, although a little bit more sophisticated in this book. There’s also a game to play while reading the book, in which the child is challenged to find 22 peppermints hidden throughout the book. You’re sure to fall in love with Ashti, and her mother as well, who by the way has a graceful and ethnic style with her clothing and hair. Kids and parents not only get a lesson on giving back, but also learn about famous musicians, singers, and instruments.

 

Black History Facts

Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch $0.99

This app contains over 500 quick facts about people of color from all over the world. Mainly for older kids and adults, this app encourages you to dig a little bit deeper into our history.  I guarantee you’ll discover something you didn’t know from our history, and you’ll be amazed. You can save facts as a “favorite,” or you can share facts via social networking or email.

 

Have you discovered any other great cultural apps for kids?  

Introducing Local Professional (and Mom), Loria Oliver

By Terri Walker

 
If you have lived in NWA for any amount of time, then you are familiar with Peekaboo magazine- a local, monthly family and parenting publication. There hasn’t been an issue yet (since I have lived here) that I have not picked up and read. What (or who) you may not be familiar with is the PR specialist that plays a significant role in the brand– her name is Loria Oliver.  Loria is responsible for Public Relations and is also a contributing writer for the magazine.  One of her columns, “I Don’t Know How She Does It,” is about women in business. She recently profiled the owner of the Press Room.

Loria Oliver

 

Last year, Loria co-founded a new company, Peekaboo Media Group, with two business partners. She serves as Director of Public Relations & Special Events. Peekaboo Media develops and distributes relevant and creative content, connects brands with audiences, and produces events that bring women (and moms) together around products and services that make their lives easier, more fulfilling, and fun!

Her business has worked with multi-million dollar companies, such as Hasbro and Tyson Foods, Inc. Recently, they hosted a “Mom’s Night Out” Event sponsored by Evenflo and gave away thousands of dollars in merchandise.  The Peekaboo Media Group also has a morning news segment the focuses on parenting, fashion, marriage, children and more! Moms- you can watch it on Thursday mornings on KNWA/NBC and KFTA/FOX!  Their last two were focused on New Year resolutions and post-baby weight loss.

Loria has been married for almost four years and has two sons, ages 21 months and 2 months. (Yes, she’s a busy woman!) They moved to NWA almost three years ago. She is originally from Maryland and has lived in Atlanta, New York, and Houston.  She is also a board member at the Rogers Public Library and has served as a Marketing Chair for the Children’s Museum of Northwest Arkansas’ annual fundraiser.

Fun Facts:

“I honeymooned in Nantucket, MA and did a 20-mile bike ride around the island with my husband.”

“My favorite local date night spot is Ruth’s Chris in Rogers.”

“I love the chai vanilla honey latte at the Press Room in Bentonville.”

Creating Community While Surrounding Our Kids With Positivity

NWA EbonyKids First Informational 3/10/12

    

By Terri Walker

Welcome blog readers from Northwest Arkansas and beyond!

Thank You for caring about and connecting with the mission/interests of this organization!

HOW WE BEGAN TO FULFILL A DESIRE…

Soon after moving to NWA with our families, Leah Williams and I were culture-shocked!!   Because of the disproportionate population of African Americans, as compared to other areas of our nation, in conjunction with many persons and families not benefiting from having extended family in the area, a desire to develop an African American social support network (for the benefit of our youth) was born.

We, more than ever, wanted our children to continue to develop positive self-images, especially in a community where they often would not see others who look like themselves.

So in January of 2012, Leah and I joined forces to create an organization with the following MISSION:

Ø  Purposefully bringing African American children and families together, and

      Ø  To utilize resources that we have within our own community.

HOW, WHY?

Ø  To provide social and cultural events which will display positive historical and current figures that can give and support positive self-image and discipline in our children. 

OUR PASSION:

      Ø  To actively be advocates for the African American youth in NWA, so that they can stay encouraged, and to avoid opportunities for them to feel isolated or racially inferior. 

We would love to receive phenomenal support
from the community while attempting to fulfill this desire.



NWA Ebony Kids Mad Science Party 4/14/12

 

FAQs:

How do I join?
Ebony Kids is not a membership organization, therefore, there are no membership dues or fees. The organization exists to serve as a community of love, support, and cultural awareness for African American youth.

Is Ebony Kids an official organization?

Yes, Ebony Kids was formed on January 22, 2012 and became a 501(c)(3) corporation on April 5, 2012, as declared by the State of Arkansas.

 Is participation limited to a specific age group?

Not at all! All kids, regardless of their age, are always welcome to attend any of the events. If you have children of a particular age group and feel that some of the events are not catered towards them, by all means- PLEASE- share ideas to initiate an event for that particular age group.

What can I do to help?

We’re glad you asked! We encourage you to be supportive in any way you can, and there are so many ways! Offer ideas or suggestions for events; host an event; volunteer to be a mentor; provide food, items, or supplies needed for an event; create or share a cultural lesson. We need the support of the community, and welcome suggestions from all.

Are the events for African American youth only?

Absolutely not! Children of all ethnicities are welcome. In the process of building a positive social support network for African American youth, we honor cultural diversity. Cultural awareness is a benefit for all.

Thank you for visiting today-check back often for news, events, resources, guest bloggers, etc!!