durham skywriter—march/april 2012

March –April 2012

vol 10, no 3

Covering events up to april 20

Famed writer Amiri Baraka helped Darrell Stover celebrate the release of his latest book of poetry, “Somewhere Deep Down When” at the Hayti Heritage Center.

Other performers included Kimberly McCrae, Morton Brooks, Kenneth Carroll, Brevan Hampden, Logie Meachum, Thomasi McDonald, the Street Genie Trio,

and Darrell’s kids, Darius and Imani Stover.

(photo by patricia A murray)

“Durham’s online community paper”

March / April 2012 — The Durham Skywriter 32 The Durham Skywriter — March / April 2012

We’ve all seen fire trucks barrelling down the street on their way to do battle, and I’ve often wondered what it’s like to put yourself in danger in order to help people you don’t even know. To learn more about fire fighters, I stopped by Durham Fire Department headquarters on W Club Blvd and had a conversation with public affairs specialist Sierra Jackson and fire fighter Jeremy Mebane from Station #1.

Durham has 16 fire stations and they’re situation so that no matter where a fire takes place, the city’s fire trucks have a three to four-minute response time after 911 is called. The 911 operators know which station to call; the closest one to the fire is called and the Durham, Parkwood, Bethesda, Bahama fire departments all work together to make sure that the County is covered.

Each station has a captain, and each crew that answers an emergency fire call consists of the captain, one driver, and one or two fire fighters. Right now the Durham Fire Department has 273 fire fighters.

Durham’s first fire department was created in 1872, and within a few years the department operated with a total of 33 volunteers By the late 1880s, an all African-American station was set up on Pine St (which is now S Roxboro St). The volunteer fire fighters did a decent job at first, but as time wore on it became apparent that the department, which was pretty disorganized, couldn’t continue without

(continued on page 4)

All fired up patricia A murray

So glad to be back!

Look for the Skywriter every month—it will be up-loaded around the 15th of each month.

… and don’t forget to listen toRadio Skywriter

every Saturday from 8:30 to 9amon WNCU / 90.7fm and wncu.org.

For more info and to be a guest on the show, get in touch with me (see contact info above).

I’m always on the lookout for positive and useful news and information. If you have news, would like to be interviewed,

or want to advertise, call 809-9682 or send email to [email protected].

leadership. There were some serious downtown fires in the early 1900s, and the business owners started asking for paid, professional fire fighters. Then City Hall burned down in 1909. That did it. The Durham Fire Department switched over to a paid staff shortly thereafter.

The Durham Police and Fire departments developed separately, but for some reason, they were merged in 1970. The police officers and fire fighters were cross-trained and called “public safety officers.” What often happened was, a emergency call would go out and one driver would hop in a fire truck and rush to the scene of the fire. Then, the police would arrive and they’d run around to the trunks of their squad cars and pull out their fire-fighting gear. Yes, they’d change their clothes right on the spot.

After some years, the two departments separated again and lots more personnel had to be hired to fully man both staffs.

Durham fire fighter helps out at the Children’s Independence Day celebration

in Durham Central Park

Sierra Jackson, who in addition to being Durham Fire Department’s public affairs specialist, she is also the public education coordinator. She described how today’s fire fighters have solid knowledge of the “science of fire.” There’s a lot more to putting out a fire than simply throwing water on it. Fire fighters are trained to look for fire in void spaces—places most people wouldn’t think of checking. Smoldering fires can spontaneously recombust hours after the 911 call has gone out. That’s why fire fighters sometimes have to chop holes in walls and roofs.

Part of Ms Jackson’s job is to educate the public on various topics regarding fire prevention. If you or your company has just bought a fire extinguisher, and can’t figure out how to operate, she’ll make sure that someone shows you how it works.

The Start Safe program is for young children up to the 2nd grade. They visit a fire station, meet the fire fighters, and

learn how to determine when something gets dangerously hot. They’re also taught how to “Stop, Drop, and Roll” and “Get Out, Stay Out.” The Smoke Trailer is often taken to special events. Kids (and adults, too) are invited to enter the trailer, which is set up to simulate a real fire, and to find two safe ways out.

The Jr Fire Marshal program is offered in conjunction with

Durham Parks and Recreation and is for

4 The Durham Skywriter — March / April 2012 March / April 2012 — The Durham Skywriter 5

The Durham Skywriter is published monthly (midmonth to midmonth) and is distributed via the worldwide web from Durham, North Carolina to every-one who wants to learn about and keep up with the Bull City. We bring infor-mation to our neighbors while looking at our city’s positive side. If you have any ideas, comments, suggestions, or want to advertise with us, please write to us at:

The Durham Skywriter1910 Capps St

Durham, NC 27707

Call us at 919-809-YOU2 (9682)

Or send email to:[email protected]

patricia A murray, publisherSkywriter logo by John Pinkney

©2012 NCskywriterAll rights reserved.

(continued from page 3)

all fired up

Just when I thought life was crazy … that’s right. It got crazier. But in a good way.

After several years of essentially being out of work, I got a part-time contract job with Blueprint NC, a progressive nonprofit organization.Blueprint NC works with other nonprofits across the state and helps them ‘frame’ their messages. Imagine several agencies working in the same area, say workers’ rights. Instead of having 30 different messages being sent out by at the same time, Blueprint NC works with them to release the same message for maximum impact.

My job is to recruit senior volunteers (age 55+), who are interested in getting spokesperson training so that they can talk comfortably on television and radio on issues that are important to many older Americans, such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, the creation of caregiver job, and decent pay and pathway to citizenship for paid caregivers.

I got to go to Washington DC for a training session for communications personnel from progressive nonprofit agencies across the country. Wow, what an opportunity! I always wondered who the crafters of policy messages were, and I got to meet some of them. We were briefed on (and even wrestled with) the power and meanings of words, how to use active instead of passive phrasing, and how to streamline the message so that it can be grasped quickly and easily.

Publisher’s pitch

I’m enjoying my new job! It’s great to have a job that really means something and that directly helps people.

If you’re age 55 and over and thinking that you might be interested in spokesperson training, pay a visit to www.caringacrossgenerations.org. Feel free to contact me if you’d like to sign up for the free training (plus the opportunity to attend a conference on senior issues free of charge).

As “DJ Piddipat” I threw my first dance party at Blue Coffee Café. It was really fun, and I’m thinking of putting on regular parties for the “older set.” If you have any ideas, shoot me an email. I think that a dance- party series for people over age 40 could be successful and I’m mulling over ideas before planning to put on the next one. The easiest way to keep up with future events is to subscribe to my tweets at www.twitter.com/djpiddipat and my tumbles at http://patriciaamurray.tumblr.com (which covers both DJ Piddipat events and Durham Skywriter news). See you next issue!

— patricia A murray ([email protected], 919-809-9682)

This is the Occupy Washington DC tent headquarters. They have a number of tents in McPherson Square, and

they even have their own full-color newspaper! Take a look at it at http://owt.occupydc.org.

I would have thought that Washington DC would be all built up by now. Clearly they’re not done yet. This construction

site was not too far from my hotel near Avenue H.

young people ages 11 to 15. During the four-day program, they’ll learn about fire prevention, how to put out fires, the fire fighting profession, and they’ll also take a Drunk Driving Simulution Test. While wearing special goggles that simulate what one would feel while impaired, the students then try to drive a golf cart. The experience is designed to help them make the right choices when they get older. Each student then graduates as an “ambassador,” with the hope that they’ll help their families and friends stay safe with the information they have learned. The program is offered free of charge, but there’s an application process. You can fill it out online at http://durhamnc.gov/ich/op/Fire/Pages/jr_fire_marshal_form.aspx (the deadline is April 6).

The Remembering When program targets seniors. Sierra Jackson visits senior groups, and while she and the seniors talk about fond memories, recipes, and funny stories, she weaves in lessons on fire prevention.

Chief Bruce Pagan is excited by the new Com- plimentary Home Evalua- tion program. Fire department staff goes door to door and asks homeowners if they’d like a free home evaluation. They often end up pointing out poten- tially dangerous practices such as overloading an electrical outlet strip, placing a throw rug over an electrical cord, frayed cables and wires, and dis- connected smoke alarms.

In the Alarm for Life program, the Durham Fire Department gives smoke and CO (carbon monoxide) alarms to low-income residents and seniors, and advice on the best places to install them. Every home or apartment that has a gas appliance should have a CO alarm.

Ms Jackson has a Spanish-speaking inspector or fire fighter with her when she meets with Hispanic groups. The Durham Fire Department works with El Centro to promote its fire-safety programs to the Spanish-speaking population. They’re also available to visit apartment complexes with fire-safety information in English and Spanish.

Contact Sierra Jackson at 560-4233 x19242 or [email protected] for scheduling your group to take part in any of these free fire-prevention programs.

the Durham Fire Department’s “smoke house”

Durham Fire Department Chief Bruce Pagan hits one off the wrists at the celebrity softball game during the grand opening festivities of

Durham Athletic Park in 2009


discover Durham County Library

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Monday–Friday 7:30am–5pmSaturdays 9am–1pm

Blue Coffee Café

Dine in/Take out • Full expresso barBreakfast & Lunch (vegans welcome!)

$5 breakfast specials!Tasty baked goods • Phone in your order

Wireless Internet • WiFi Gwen Mathews, proprietor

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Monday–Friday 7am–5pm • Saturdays 9am–5pm

Ask about our special events, including jazz programming and book signings

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Monday–Friday 8am–6pm

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Car alarms • Car audio • Car detailingCar TV • DVD & navigation

Wheels & accessories • Window tinting

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$125 special: Window tint$125 especial: Polarisado de autos (pregunte por Oscar)

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High Strungviolins & guitars

also banjos • mandolins • ukulelesviolas • cellos

Sales • Rentals • RepairsJams • Workshops • Accessories

Ask about our Teen Music & Service BoardCheck our website for our workshops & jam sessions!

1116 Broad St • Durham286-3801

www.highstrungdurham.com

Retail Store and Art GalleryCreative Reuse Center – new items daily 50–75% off

Open 7 days a week at our new location!

923 Franklin St Durham688-6960

www.scrapexchange.org

The Palace Internationalrestaurant and catering

1104-A Broad St Durham416-4922

Lunch Tuesday–Saturday 11am–4pm Dinner 5–10pm

Friday & Saturday Bar Open until 2amSunday Brunch Buffet 11am–4pm $9.99

Vegetarians welcome

We provide catering services 7 days/week for all types of functions & occasions

Call Caren Ochola, manager

Signed Photographs • PostersCustom Framing • Photo Printing

303 E Chapel Hill Street • 687-0250between the Marriott & the Post Office

Tu–Fri 10:30–5:30 • Sat 10:30–4:00www.ThroughThisLens.com

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University BP

Tony & Evelyn Henderson

1101 University Dr Durham490-1265 or 489-7692 shop

489-0732 home • 919-8169 cell

Brake jobs • Used tiresEngine work • Transmission work

NCI inspections • Tune-ups • Towing

Remind your friends that they can read the Durham Skywriter online!

www.durhamskywriter.com

Jareh Healthcare, Inc

Certified by the State of NC / BondedCall 919-957-3354 or 877-361-3354 for more information

Medicaid • Insurance • Private Pay

Respite care, CAP services (adult/child), HIV case management, MR/DD case management

Providing compassionate anddependable in-home care like family 24/7

Free initial home conference

CNA-1 Training

Chicken Hut

Fried Chicken • Fish • Home-cooked vegetablesHomemade desserts • Dinners cooked to your liking:

Baked Chicken, Beef Liver, Chitlins, OxtailsRibs (beef and pork)

Lemonade & Sweet Tea by the gallon/half-gallon

Take Out • CateringEat-in lunch 11:30am–2:30pm weekdays

3019 Fayetteville St Durham682-5697

Monday–Saturday 10am–6pm


WORD … WORD … WORD … R from the American Red Cross—Central North Carolina Chapter, 4737 University Dr, 489-6541, http://cncredcross.org/:

Be prepared for emergencies by taking classes offered by the American Red Cross. You can visit http://cncredcross. org for class descriptions:

• Cat and Dog First Aid—Monday, March 26, 9am–1pm; $70 (classroom). • Standard First Aid with CPR/AED–Adult and Child + CPR–Infant—Tuesday, April 3, 9:30– 11:30am; $110 (web-based & classroom). • Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED— Saturday, April 7, 9am–3pm; $110 (classroom). • Babysitter’s Training—Saturday, April 7, 9am– 3:30pm; $85 (classroom). • Pediatric CPR/AED—Wednesday, April 11, 5:30–8:30pm; $70 (classroom). • Adult First Aid/CPR/AED—Wednesday, April 18, 9am–2:30pm; $90 (classroom). • Standard First Aid with CPR/AED–Adult and Child + CPR–Infant—Wednesday, April 18, 5:30–7:30pm; $110 (web-based & classroom).

R from the City of Durham / Office of Economic and Workforce Development, http://durhamnc.gov/ich/cb/oewd/Pages/Home.aspx:

Artists are invited to submit proposals for new works of art that will be displayed in indoor and/or outdoor public places. Preference will be given to works that will be displayed in the general downtown area and in areas chosen by the City’s Office of Economic and Workforce Develop- ment, including CCB Plaza, the Five Points area, the Durham Station Transportation Center, and along the Bull City Connector route. Monies have been set aside to fund each project, and each work of art must be designed for permanent display, unless the artist chooses to create a temporary community-participation project. The application deadline is March 29, 4:30pm; download the request- for-proposal form on the website listed above.

R from DATA (Durham Area Transit Authority), www.gotriangle.org: Phase 1 of DATA’s Designing Better Bus Service is done; suggestions for busline improvements were made over a period of a few months, and the suggestions were taken and collected. The next step is to have the DBBS Sound- ing Board go over the suggestions with DATA riders. If you’d like to participate in making sure that DATA bus service is the best it can be, come on out to the DBBS Sounding Board meetings:

• Tuesday,March27,5:15–7:45pm,attheDurham Armory (220 Foster St) • Tuesday,April10,(placetobedeterminedlater; check the website).

R from the Durham City-County Emergency Management Department, www.co.durham.nc.us/ departments/emgt/CodeRED/CodeRED.html:

Now you can sign up to get an automated warning whever severe weather threatens the area—individuals and businesses can register for the new CodeRED® Weather Warning Service free of charge. This opt-in weather warning service will send an automated alert to those in cases of drinking-water contamination, utility outages, evacu- ation notices and route information, missing persons, fires or floods, bomb threats, hostage situation, and chemical spills or gas leaks. When you register for this service, you can list your unlisted number, cell phone number, or other secondary phone number.

R from Durham Technical Community College/ The Small Business Center, 400 W Main St, 3rd floor of the SouthBank Bldg, 536-7241, durhamtech.edu/html/current/noncredit/ sbccseminars.htm:

Durham Tech’s Small Business Center offers classes and seminars in their new location to entrepreneurs who are planning or starting their own businesses. These particular

classes are being offered free of charge; check the website for additional classes and workshop series:

• The Most Important Legal Questions Facing Small Business—Tuesday, March 20, 6–9pm; free; learn the difference between proprietorship, partnership, “C” Corp, “S” Corp, “LLC”; learn about commercial leases, supplier and customer contracts; and get practical advice on minimizing business risks.

• Thinking of Starting a Business?—Monday, March 26, 3–5pm; free; an overview for business startups, with information on resources for entrepreneurs.

• The Competitive Edge: Fundamentals of Grant Writing (level 2)—Tuesday, March 27, 6–9pm; free; learn how to use the SMART method for putting together a grant proposal that includes a compelling needs statement and real-world budget.

• Basic Bookkeeping for Business Owners—Tuesday, April 10, 6–9pm; free; learn the basics: cash vs accrual, debits and credits, depreciation, assets and liabilities, preparing a financial statement, and preparing a balance sheet.

• Intro to Federal and Department of Defense Con- tracting Opportunities—Tuesday, April 17, 6–9pm; free; learn how to get registered and ready to bid for opportunities that are popping up as military spend- ing continues to grow in North Carolina.

• Good Customers Are Worth Their Weight in Gold —Wednesday, April 25, 11:30am–1:30pm; free; develop customer relations and your revenue by capi- talizing on referrals and learning to turn casual customers into loyal ones.

R from GlaxoSmithKline: In partnership with the Durham County Library system and the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, GlaxoSmithKline will be bringing the wonders of science to young people this summer. Science in the Summer enrichment programs will allow elementary and middle

school students to perform hands-on experiments and develop a genuine interest in science.

Three levels are offered: Level I for rising 2nd- and 3rd- graders, Level II for rising 4th- and 5th-graders, and Level III for 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-graders. Science in the Summer is a free program and will be offered at the following librar- ies:

• East Regional Library (211 Lick Creek Ln)—Levels I and II, June 18–22; Level III, June 20–22. • Main Library (300 N Roxboro St)—Levels I and II, July 23–27; Level III, July 17–19. • North Regional Library (221 Milton Rd)—Levels I and II, June 25–29; Level III, June 27–29. • South Regional Library (4505 S Alston Ave)— Levels I and II, July 9–13 and July 16–20; Level III, July 31–August 2. • Southwest Regional Library (3605 Shannon Rd)— Levels I and II, June 11–15 and August 13–17. • Stanford L Warren Library (1201 Fayetteville St)— Levels I and II, July 16–20.

Register online at www.durhamcountylibrary.org. This program is free and is first-come, first-served, so do it ASAP.

R from the Obama for America campaign office, http://my.barackobama.com/Obama-Biden-Sticker:

You can send for a free Obama-Biden 2012 bumper sticker if you visit the website listed above. All kinds of buttons, t-shirts, bumper stickers (including 10 bumper stickers for $1 or 25 for $2), signs, and posters are available at www.democraticstuff.com.

R Attention, nonprofit organizations and government agencies: Send us information on your programs and initia- tives for inclusion in the next issue of the Durham Skywriter.

WORD … WORD … WORD …


We add just the right accent for your special eventR&B (including old school) • rock/pop • jazz • classical

children’s music • world music (including salsa/tropical, bachata, Brazilian, and music from

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Call 809-YOU2 (9682) today!

Kids’ parties

all-clean, age-appropriate musicbirthday parties • school events

carnivals • casino nights • pep rallieslighting • giveaways • games

Nonprofit & Neighborhood Fundraisers

Wide range of background music for banquets (jazz, classical, and pop)

Music • Lights • MCing

Great music for dancing (old-school R&B, rock, country, and

clean versions of current hints)

Ask about our “Worldwide Dance Party” package

Join us on Friday, May 28 and June 25, 2 to 4pm, for the

Swingin’ Seniors Clubat the Durham Center for Senior Life

(406 Rigsbee Ave)

It’s free and for dancers age 55+!

Enjoy the refreshmentsCome dance or just watch

Jazz & Public AffairsSpecialty Programming

Tune in at 90.7fmListen to our podcasts at www.wncu.org

Morning Jazz • Afternoon Jazz • Evening Jazz

8-Track Flashback • Bonjour Africa • Bull City Blues

Close to Thee • Democracy Now! • Hallelujah Praise

Inside NCCU • Jazz Focus • Mastering Your Money

Radio Skywriter • Reggae Scene • Tell Me More

The Funk Show • The Loft

Radio Skywriteris now available via podcast!

If you can’t listen on Saturdays at 8:30am on

WNCU/90.7fm or wncu.org,

listen any time you want by listening to the podcast

on wncu.org!

Call 809-YOU2 to be a guest on Radio Skywriter!

Henderson’spaint • body • detail • towing

701 N Mangum St Durham688-1976 • 201-9712 cell

Monday–Saturday 9am–6:30pm

Anthony Henderson, owner


Zooom!The kids’ page

SEND US JOKES!SEND US RIDDLES!

SEND US SCIENCE FAIR IDEAS!

SEND US MONEY!(just kidding!)

Funny jokesof the

month

What happens when the smog lifts in California?

UCLA!

What’s the difference between weather and climate?

You can’t weather a tree, but you can climate!

What did one lightning bol say to the other?

Why, that news is shocking!

Try to say these three times fast:

77 benevolent elephants.

Willy’s real rear wheel.

We love funny jokes and riddles! Send us one—if we

use it, you’ll win a prize!

Earthquakes Planet Earth is not solid through and through. The surface is covered by at least 20 “plates” of thick rock that move so slowly that we can’t feel it. The plates’ edges sometimes move over each other, and sometimes they even push against each other. When that happens, tons of pressure are released as the crust breaks. These huge shifts under the Earth’s surface cause the ground to shake violently. When this happens under one of the oceans, the pressure that’s released can cause huge tsunamis (giant ver-sions of tidal waves).

Tell thetemperature You can actually tell what the out-door temperature is by counting the chirps of crickets. Count the num-ber of chirps that a cricket makes in 15 seconds, and then add 37. The answer will be really close to the temperature outside!

Betcha didn’t know that …

The next meeting of Durham Congregations in Action will be held at 11:45am on Tuesday, March 20 at McMannen United Methodist Church (4102 Neal Rd). DCiA’s mission is: To bring together congregations to promote understand-ing across boundaries of faith, race and ethnicity and build an inclusive community of justice and peace. Learn more about this 62-member organization at http://dcia.org. If you missed this meeting, the next one will be held on Tuesday, April 17, at Mt Calvary United Church of Christ (1715 Athens St). The topic will be “Faith Communities and End-of-Life Preparation.”

The Religious Coalition for a Non-violent Durham’s next Community Luncheon Roundtable will be held on Thursday, March 22, noon–1pm, in the Fellowship Hall of Shepherd’s House United Methodist Church (107 N Driver St; back entrance). The group will discuss why young people are attracted to gangs and the consequences that they face. You’re invited to help figure out how the faith community can best respond to and lessen gang violence in Durham.Contact Marcia Owen at 358-1113 or [email protected], or visit the website at www.nonviolent durham.org for more information.)

It’s not too soon to begin preparations for taking part in this year’s Durham CROP Walk. CROP Walk is a worldwide fun-draiser to eradicate hunger. Monies raised by participants in each city or town go toward hunger-relief efforts around the world, and a percentage is set aside for local programs. This year’s CROP Walk will step off on Sunday, April 1, 2:30pm at Duke Chapel (on Science Dr). Here’s how it works: You can decide to walk as an individual, form a team, or join an existing team (teams can be made up of church groups, coworkers, block clubs, or anyone else who likes to work together). Register online by going to www.durhamcropwalk.org. Then, ask your friends, relatives, neigh-

bors, coworkers, etc to sponsor you as a walker. Any amount is good—you can ask for $5, $10, $20, or more. If you can’t participate in person, you can make a direct donation online. More details are available at the website; Durham Congrega-tions in Action is the local facilitator. You can also call 688-3843 for more information.

Judea Reform Congregation’s Mitzvah Day is Sunday, April 1. Get involved by joining in on a commu-nity-service project. This year’s proj-ects include:

•Habitat for Humanity Building Proj-ect, 1103 Taylor St, 12:30–3:30pm (age 18+).

•Habitat for Humanity Refreshments/Hospitality—preparing sandwiches and snacks for the participants in the Building Project, 2:30–4pm (kids welcome).

•Help to Defeat Amendment 1—telephone banking/letter writing at Judea Reform, 12:30–3:30pm (please attend training at 12:30 and volun-teer for 2 hours that afternoon).

• Book Drive for Prisoners—going through books donated to Judea Reform (please volunteer for 2 hours)

• CROP Walk (see information above).

You can read more and sign up on-line at www.judeareform.org.

First Calvary Baptist Church’s 2012 Business Fair will be held on Saturday, March 24, 10am–1pm, in the church’s Fel-lowship Hall (1311 Morehead Ave).

Send information about your place of worship’s outreach activities, programs, and special events to us at [email protected].

thepraise pageThe greatest amount of rain to ever

fall in one day was 73.62 inches in Réunion on March 15, 1952. (Réunion is a French island in the Indian Ocean.

The greatest amount of snow to ever fall in one day was 75.8 inches in Silver Lake, Colorado on April 14/15, 1921.

The highest temperature ever recorded was 136°F at Al Aziziyah, Libya on September 13, 1922.

The lowest temperature ever recorded was -128.6°F / -89.6°C, Vostok Station, Antarctica, 21 July 1983.

What two states DON’T have record high temperatures any greater than 100 degrees? Answer: Alaska and Hawaii.

March / April 2012 — The Durham Skywriter 1514 The Durham Skywriter — March / April 2012

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension has chosen the WD Hill Recreation Center to be the site for a new nutrition education program called Families Eating Smart and Moving More. This free program is designed to help families take their health into their own hands, and covers four areas:

Eating Smart at Home

Enjoying meals together as a family can lead to healthier liv-ing. Families can come to a consensus and plan their meals using more fresh ingrediants, fruits, and vegetables than they’d probably have if they ate at fastfood restaurants. Family mem-bers can collaborate on shopping lists and on finding recipes for simple, healthful meals that they can prepare together. Families might even discover that they’re talking more, which could lead to less TV watching, more homework help, more bedtime stories … the sky’s the limit!

Eating Smart on the Run

Nowadays, people are so busy that they end up eating at res-taurants and fastfood joints more often than they eat at home. If they’re not careful, their diets can consist of fatty, sugary foods, few, if any, fresh fruits and vegetables, larger-than-nor-mal portions, and high-calorie drinks. With thoughtful plan-ning, families can learn how to choose healthy meals when eating out.

To your health

Families Eating Smart and Moving More

Moving More, Everyday, Everywhere

Many adults spend most of the day sitting at their desks at work, and many students spend way too much time sitting as well. Families can learn how to find time for physical ac-tivity while they’re together. When driving to a destination, simply parking further away encourages more waslking. Every step counts. Taking the stairs instead of elevators and going on walks in the evening also contribute to developing a more active lifestyle.

Moving More, Watching Less

Many American families watch way too much television, and spend countless hours in front of their computers and video games. Stepping away and doing something physical—taking a walk, dancing, going bike riding can definitely elevate the heart rate and contribute to better health. Senior centers are buying sports-oriented videogame systems (like Wii and Ki-nect), as a way to reintroduce movement to their members, and families are also discovering the fun.

Erin Roberts, a nutrition educator with the Durham County Cooperative Extension, leads the weekly sessions at WD Hill (1308 Fayetteville St) on Tuesdays starting at 6:15pm. Families Eating Smart and Moving More is a free program; contact Ms Roberts at 560-7978 or [email protected] for more information. You can also visit www.eatsmartmove morenc.com and download a Weekly Dinner, Activity and TV Time Planner and information sheets covering menu plan-ning, shopping lists, and suggestions for physical activities.

Durham Tech has classes in fire pro-tection technology, but the Durham Fire Department has its own academy, which is pretty rare. The way it works here, you’re first hired by the City, then you attend a 6-month academy where you earn certifications in fire prevention and suppression, EMT, etc.

Q We’ve all seen the different Fire Department vehicles, like the ladder trucks and engines. Are certain fire fighters assigned to certain vehicles?

A No, we get training for all of the vehicles so that we’ll know what to do in all situations. The engine is the primary water source, then there’s the ladder truck (with a ladder that goes as high as 107 feet), and the squad truck (for rescue and life saving/support).

This month we spoke fire fighter Jeremy Mebane, who’s assigned to Durham Fire Department Station #1.

Q What are your duties as a fire fight-er?

A We’re trained to put out fires, but we’re also trained in life safety as EMTs (emergency medi-cal technicians). We’re first-respon- ders, so when someone calls 911, both the police and the fire department come.

Q Why did you decide to be-come a fire fighter?

A Career fulfillment. I’ve worked in sales service-oriented jobs, but I didn’t get the sense that I was contributing to the community. I was really looking for a job that meant something, and when I started considerat-ing a career in public safety, my wife said that she could deal with my being a fire fighter.

Q So how did you make the transition to becoming a fire fighter?

A Job openings are posted on the City of Durham website, and the application process is explained there. The minimum age to be a fire fighter is 18 and there’s no height or weight restrictions—you have to be medically able to perform the job.

ON THE JOB:fire fighter

Q Being a fire fighter isn’t a 9-to-5 job. What’s your typical schedule?

A We work 10 days a month, but we work 24-hour shifts for five days, then we take six days off. It’s dormitory-style living at the station, and a large station

can accommodate 13 people. We try to get our proper rest and keep the same eating pat-terns. And we also try to come to a concensus when it comes to meals because we eat together often.

Q You told me that you’ve been a fire fighter for less than a year. How do you deal with your fear when you’re just start-ing out?

A Well, that’s what train-ing is for. Someone might natu-rally be apprehensive, but the training and education prepares you. We learn the “science of fire,” we practice with simulat-

ed conditions, have ongoing fitness and classroom sessions, and we learn to have faith in our equipment and ourselves.

Q What do you like best about being a fire fighter?

A Fulfillment. Even though fires disrupt people’s lives, our job is to use our skills to put them out and minimize the damage and the turmoil that fami-lies go through.


Q News from the Durham Center for Senior Life, 406 Rigsbee Ave, 688-8247, www.dcslnc.org:

Watch movies in the DCSL theater on Fridays at 2pm (call to find out what movies will be shown in April): March 23—Changeling March 30—The Hurricane

If you’ve been wanting to participate in The Vol- unteer Center’s Community Walk on March 24, but didn’t have anyone to walk with, then sign up to join Team DSCL! (The Community Walk is the noncompetitive feature of the Great Human Race.) Runners participating in the 5k race pay a registration fee, but participants in the Community Walk don’t have to pay anything. Call or drop by the Center, and be sure to ask when everyone is supposed to meet up at Northgate Mall (1058 W Club Blvd, near Sears Automotive).

There’s going to be a Barber Beauty Workshop on Monday, March 26, 11am–noon, in the Upper Commons.

Q News from Durham Parks and Recreation, Mature Adults office, Walltown Recreation Center, 1308 W Club Blvd, 354-2710 or 560-4296, durhamnc.gov/departments/parks/senior_games. cfm:

The deadline for registering for the Durham County Senior Games is Friday, March 30! Men and women (age 55+) are invited to compete in various events,

including literary and visual arts, croquet, table tennis, basketball, and track & field. It costs $14 to register, $12 with a Play More card. You can pick up an application at the DPR main office (400 Cleveland St), Holton Center (401 N Driver St), Walltown (1308 W Club Blvd), WD Hill (Fayetteville St), Lyon Park (1309 Halley St), or you can download a form at www.dprplaymore.org.

Enjoy some Gospel Movement and loosen up for spring by moving to gospel music. Sessions will be held on Thursdays, April 19 to July 5, 12:30–1:10pm, at Lyon Park (1309 Halley St);Mondays, April 30– July 30, 10–10:40am, at the Holton Center (401 N Driver St); and Fridays, March 30–June 22, 9–9:40am, at Walltown Park Recreation Center (1308 W Club Blvd). The cost of each series is $12, but free with a Play More card.

Do you keep up with special events that are happen- ing around the state? Maybe you can give some suggestions for future trips. If you’re interested, be sure to call and ask about the Mature Adults Council.

Q News from Duke Medicine’s Department of Clinical Education and Professional Development, Teer House, 4019 N Roxboro Rd, 416-DUKE or 888-ASK-DUKE:

A seminar on Osteoporosis: Broken Bones and Falls will be given at the Teer House on Monday, March 26, 6:30–8pm. Sometimes, falls suffered by older adults lead to broken bones and the loss of the ability to live independentally. All are invited to this free lecture, and caregivers are welcome.

SENIORSCOPEHigh school artists are invited to compete in the Durham Arts Coun-cil’s 2012 Congressional High School Art Competition. Winners will have their framed artworks displayed for one year in a Congressional office in Washington DC. Art pieces can be in the form of paintings (oil, acrylics, watercolors), drawings (colored pen-cil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, char-coal), 2-dimensional collages, prints (lithographs, silkscreen, block prints), mixed media (use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, water-color, etc), computer-generated art, and photography.

Artists can read the guidelines and download applications and release forms at www.durhamarts.org. Sub-missions will be accepted at the Dur-ham Arts Council (120 Morris St) the week of April 9–13. Good luck!

The National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST) recently presented RN Harris Integrated Arts/Core Knowledge Magnet El-ementary School with the 2012 Na-tional Excellence in Urban Education Award. RN Harris, along with six oth-er American schools, were chosen to: “recognize and reward exceptional urban school educators and stu-dents; provide a benchmark of excel-lence that motivates reform efforts; and expand the knowledge base of best practices for promoting urban school transformation.”

Other local finalists for the award among the 27 schools from around the country included the City of Medicine Academy and the JD Clement Early College High School.

RN Harris received a monetary award in the amount of $2,500, a banner, a certificate, and later this year, Principal Carolyn Pugh and another school administrator will attend a national conference on urban education in San Diego, cour-tesy of the NCUSlT.

Donald Long, director of the City of Durham’s Solid Waste Manage-ment, visited one of our Sister Cities, Arusha (Tanzania) two years to help design a curbside waste collection service. He also served as a techni-cal advisor on a grant that Arusha administrators sought with Sister Cit-ies International and the Gates Foun-dation (the city was subsequently awarded $115,000). In another ges-ture of friendship, the City of Durham donated a new garbage truck to Aru-sha; most of Arusha’s fleet of garbage trucks date back to 1980.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded the City of Durham’s Com-munity Development Department

nearly half a million dollars to pro-vide housing for chronically home-less individuals and families who are ready to leave the streets.

Durham Housing Authority’s Goley Pointe Development (in northeast-central Durham), which was awarded $368,073, will build a mixed-income development that will provide hous-ing to chronically homeless families and individuals. Supportive services will help the new residents make the transition from the streets and shel-ters to permanent housing and on-ward toward school and work.

The Housing for New Hope’s Streets to Home Initiative was awarded $106,001. Ten chronically homeless individuals or families will get help making the transition into homes, with the aid of Housing for New Hope’s Homeless Outreach Team and its Assertive Engagement Team.

The City of Durham has its own gov-ernment channel, DTV8, on Time Warner Cable channel 8. The infor-mative program “CityLife” is aired periodically and can now be viewed online. Go to http://DurhamNC.gov/ich/pa/Pages/DTV8/CityLife.aspx and you’ll be able to select a recent epi-sode and watch it any time you want.

NeighborGoodies… neighborhood quips & tips …


the package with a code that you can remember (for ex-ample, “BackYard Crops,” “Front LawnShade,” or “Back-Lawn Sunny”). After you drop off your soil samples at the Durham County office, they’ll be sent to North Caro-lina State University in Raleigh for evaluation. You’ll get a report via email.

Call the Master Gardeners desk at 560-0025 for more in-formation and to make sure someone’s in the office so you can pick up your kits.

Preparing for springIf you didn’t get around to cleaning your garden tools at the end of the season, now’s a good time to tackle it before the next gardening season rolls around. Remove old, caked-on soil from shovels, hoes, and hand tools with steel wool BBQ grill scrub-

bing pads. Scrub the steel parts with soap and water, dry with paper towels, and then rub them with a bit of lubricating oil (like WD-40). Lightly sand the wooden handles with sand-paper or steel wool and then rub them down with linseed oil.

You can remove rust with a product called naval jelly (check hardware and home-improvement stores). Wear pro-tective gloves and liberally paint the tool’s surface with the naval jelly. Let it work for 10 minutes and then rinse the tool with hot water, which should remove the rust. Wipe the tool down with lubricating oil.

Sharpen your clippers, pruners, and shovels with a mill file (the 10-inch files are easier to control). Follow the bevel carefully so as not to ruin the edge.

Master gardenersMaster gardeners, who volunteer in the NC Cooperative Extension/Durham County office, can answer just about any gardening- and lawn-related question you can throw at them on weekdays from 9am to 5pm. They can make suggestions on what to plant this year. Call 560-0025.

Join a community garden!If you’ve been wanting to garden but don’t have the space, consider renting a plot at the new Briggs Avenue Commu-nity Garden (1313 S Briggs Ave, just south of the Durham Tech campus on Lawson St). The previously unused land was donated by XXX and the garden was created by a group led by North Carolina State Univer-sity and the Durham County Cooperative Extension Ser-vice office. Contact County Agent Michelle Wallace at [email protected] or 560-0026 to learn more about this beautiful garden and to reserve a space to grow your own fruits, veg-etables, and/or herbs.

SEEDS, a local suste-nance-education nonprofit agency, also rents spaces in their community garden. SEEDS is the home of the Durham Inner-City Gardeners (DIG), teens who sell fruits, vegetables, and flowers at the Durham Farmers Market that they’ve grown themselves. Their garden is across the street from the SEEDS office and the gorgeous community garden is right next to the office at 706 Gilbert St. Visit seedsnc.org or call 683-1197 for more information.

Free soil-sample testsIf you’re creating new planting beds—either for flowers/orna-mentals, edible plants, or for lawns—now is a good time to get the soil in your yard or garden evaluated. Did you have prob-lems last year trying to get certain fruits to develop properly or getting flowers to bloom or grass to grow? Get your soil tested and learn what amendments can be added to create the ideal growing environment. The North Carolina Cooperative Ex-tension Service offers free soil-testing kits through its Durham County office (721 Foster St). Most counties are charging for this service, and we’re fortunate that here in Durham County we can have our soils evealuated free of charge.

Pick up a couple of kits and follow the directions: Col-lect soil samples from your yard and make sure to label

thegardenshed

Emily Polanco, from the Latino Credit Union, poses with Wool E Bull at the Marry Durham event.

Mike Woodard, who’s running for the NC Senate, has fun at the 1st anniversary of Marry Durham with wife Sarah.

photos by patricia A murray — see more pix at flickr.com/photos/durhamskywriter

Mayor Bill Bell and Katherine O’Brien at WNCU; they talked about Marry Durham’s 1st anniversary

celebration on Radio Skywriter.

Omarius Credle’s beautiful bass/baritone voice could be heard far and wide as he rehearses for the National Anthem tryouts at Durham Bulls

Athletic Park. The talented 16-year-old is a junior at Durham School of the Arts.


•Get some exercise by signing up for the Heels in Motion mall-walking program at the Streets at Southpoint (6910 Fayetteville Rd). Monday– Saturday the doors open at 8am and 11am on Sundays. Sign up at the customer service desk (across from Williams-Sonoma).

On Wednesday, March 28, UNC Health will provide a free breakfast and exercise session for the mall walkers at 8am (meet at Chick-fil-A). Call 572-8808 for more information.

•Take the kids to the DAP (historic Durham Athletic Park, at Morris and Corporation) to see some North Carolina Central University Eagles baseball. The games are free!

There will be a couple of afternoon games on March 24 and 25, and then a nice long homestand in April (4/4 night, 4/7 doubleheader, 4/8 afternoon, 4/11 night, 4/14 doubleheader, and 4/15 afternoon).

Visit www.nccueaglepride.com for more info.

Walk & run for your communityThe Volunteer Center’s annual Great Human Race 5k Run and Commu-nity Walk raises funds for local non-profit organizations on Saturday, March 24, 8:30am. The registration fee is $30, $25 in advance (register online at www.greathumanrace.org), and free for participants in the Community Walk. Meet and sign in at Northgate Mall (1058 W Club Blvd, near Sears Automotive). For more info, contact Tammy Dorfman at [email protected] or 632-5613.

The Fool’s Gold 5k Run/Walk, a 5k run and walk to raise awareness and funds for affordable housing, will take place on Sunday, April 1, 1pm. Meet at the Al Buehler Cross Country Trail at NC 751 and Science Dr. The registration fee is $15, $10 for students. To get a registration form, send an email message to foolsgold [email protected].

Basketball ClinicA Basketball Clinic series for younger players (ages 6–13) who want to get started by learning the fundamentals and rules of the game will be held at Walltown Park Recreation Center (1308 W Club Blvd) on Saturdays, March 24–April 14, 10am–noon. Fees are $22, $20 with the Play More card.

Register at the Durham Parks and Rec-reation office at 400 Cleveland St. Call 560-4355 for more information.

SPORTS SHORTS

SPORTIN’ LIFE

Teen Basketball Skills ClinicTeens ages 13–18 can sign up to work on their dribbling, defense, shooting, and team play at the Teen Basketball Skills Clinic, which will be held at Lyon Park (1309 Halley St) Monday–Friday, April 9–13, 1–5pm. It’s free, so sign up now!

Register at the Durham Parks and Rec-reation office at 400 Cleveland St. Call 560-4355 for more information.

Tennis, anyone?Tennis players at all levels are invited to sign up for United States Tennis Asso-ciation play—there’s the NCTA Singles League, USTA Adult Mixed Doubles, USTA Adult Recreational, USTA Senior Leagues, USTA Senior Mixed Doubles, USTA Super Seniors 60s, and USTA Su-per Seniors 70s. Get more information and sign up online at http://national.usta.com.

Duke University baseballThis year, Duke’s Blue Devils baseball home games will be played at the DBAP (Durham Bulls Athletic Park, 409 Black-well) and Jack Coombs Field (101 Whit-ford Dr). For more information, go to www.goduke.com.

Surfing the Internet is fun, but it can cause you to lose track of time. So, in the interest of science and in saving you precious time, I thought I’d tell you about some fun sites I’ve encountered while gallantly giving up some of my own precious time.

dmarie.com/timecap/step1.aspThis website can really come in handy for class and family reunions. Enter a birthdate and the dMarie Time Capsule will create a page that shows the top headlines, celebrity birthdays, TV shows, top songs, popular toys, book bestsellers, Academy Award-winners, and typical consumer prices for that date. You can use this website to create “Did you know?” or trivia games for special events.

freeshipping.orgThose who enjoy online shopping can now get their orders sent to them free of charge, even if free shipping isn’t listed on the website. You can identify stores by category (electronics, toys, books, etc) or by store name (hundreds and hundreds of stores, including Home Depot, Sam’s Club, and Barnes & Noble). After you’ve made your order, you can then type in the tracking num-ber and follow your package while it’s en route by way of UPS, FedEx, or the US Post Office.

nurseryrhymes.comSometimes it doesn’t hit you until you’ve had your first child or are in the midst of adopting or fostering a child, that you realize that you’ve forgotten the words to some of the nursery rhymes you grew up with. Now you can visit nurseryrhymes.com and reacquaint yourself with Knick Knack Paddy Whack, John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, Kookaburra, Oh Dear What Can the Matter Be, and hundreds of additional nursery rhymes.

high-techhijinks

hiphopgrams.comThis superfun website helps you send special greetings to fam-ily members, friends, and coworkers free of charge. You can even personalize the hiphop messages by choosing the name of the recipient from a pulldown menu (they have a wide choice, including Spanish and Muslim names). Available categories include Happy Anniversary, Congratulations, Best Friends, Break Up, Flirt, Sorry, Birthday, Get Well, Thank You, Holi-day (various), Wedding, Mad, and Sympathy. The beats are tight and the messages are delivered with an authentic sound.

writecomics.comIf you’re not a consummate artist, you can still create your own comics with help from this website. Dou-ble-click on elements—characters, background, speech balloons, and props—to set up your comic. You can add panels as you go along and create an actual comic strip.

snapbubbles.comIf you’ve always enjoyed popping bubble wrap, now you can do so anywhere you can get access to the Internet. Click on each bubble and listen to it pop. Keep in mind that you might be driving everyone with-in hearing range crazy while you sit around casually popping these bub-bles.

mysticalball.comType a Yes or No question, click on the “submit” button and get the answer from the online magic mystical crystal ball.

guessthecity.comTest your knowledge of the world’s big cities. Look at the pho-tos and guess the city from the four choices given for each photo.


File your own visitation or custody lawsuit North Carolina Central University’s Family Law Clinic holds monthly File It Yourself Clinics at the Legal Aid of North Carolina office (201 W Main St, Suite 400). Attend- ees will learn some basic family law and how to file their own visitation or custody lawsuits. A mediator can offer free help in getting you what you want without having to go to court. Call 530-7169 to reserve your spot; the cost to attend is $15 (cash or money order). Visit nccu. edu/law/clinic/index.html to learn about NCCU’s various legal clinics, and call 530-7169 to sign up for the Wednesday, April 18 File It Yourself Clinic.

Kids & computersFor years and years, parents have been content to place TVs in their kids’ bedrooms so that everyone in the family could watch their favorite shows. Doing the same with computers, however, can lead to trouble. Here are a few tips for keeping children safe when they’re on the Internet.

• Set up your computer in an open area, where you can see what your child is looking at without making him or her feel as if you’re spying or snooping. A good spot would be the kitchen, family or living room, where you can place the computer on a small cart or computer desk. Avoid placing the computer in an out-of-the-way area like your child’s bedroom or the basement.

• Teachyourchildtoneversharepersonalinformationon the Internet, such as their name, address, telephone number, age, name of school, or other personal information. Discuss the fact that people often lie about who they really are, and to let you know immediately if anybody says or does anything strange or questionable. Don’t let your child create a FaceBook, MySpace, or Twitter account without your knowledge.

LEGAL EASE• Research and purchase/download filters that can block pop-up ads and questionable/inappropriate materials, including pornography. Some filters are available through your Internet Service Provider or search engine like Google. Be sure to read about popular trends; some teens have learned to get around filters by typing keywords in foreign languages. You might want to consider getting a filter that searches for keywords in English plus several other languages.

• Learntorecognizesignsofyourchildbecomingaddicted to the Internet. It’s fun to explore the world online,

but don’t let your child sit for hours during the day and too late into the night. Break the Internet’s hold on your child with outdoor activities and trips to places like the library, the park, and museums.

• You can actually monitor your child’s activities by purchasing/dowloading monitoring (sometimes called “spy”) software. It’s not against the law to check your child’s email every now and then. If you get password capturing software

(also called child safety monitoring software), you can find out your child’s email and social-networking website(s) (MySpace, FaceBook, etc) passwords without having to ask him or her.

• Youcan’tforceyourchild’sfriendstofollowthesamerules in their homes that you have in yours, so be sure that your child understands that the rules you impose are for their own safety and not just because you’re a nosy parent.

• Bealert toyourchildgettingphonecalls,mail,orgifts from people you don’t know; find out what’s going on immediately and tell your child not to go somewhere to meet someone he or she has met online under any circum- stances.

For more information, subscribe to the CyberTipLine at CyberTipline.com or visit NetSmartz411.org.


LET’S GO! music students and guest artists, led by John Brown, bassist and director of the Duke Jazz Studies Program, let loose on most Wednesday nights when school is in session. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages are served. It’s all free! Call 684- 3814 or visit studentaffairs.duke.edu/mlw/ programs-services/jazz-programs for more info.

Í English Country Dance sessions are held every Thursday, 7:30–9:30pm, at the Freedman Center of Beth El Synagogue (1004 Watts St). Be sure to take soft, non-street shoes or dance in your socks. $5 suggested donation; beginners are welcome. Visit ncfolk.net/contra for more info.

Í The Durham Central Park Pavilion at 502 Foster St is the home of the Durham Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Winter hours, 10am to noon, are in effect until April 7; then the market will be open from 8am to noon. You can buy fresh pro- duce, free-range eggs, honey, cheese, hand- made soaps, flowers, homemade yummies, and you can even order antibiotic and hormone- free meats. Check www.durhamfarmersmarket. com or call 484-3084 to find out what’s in season.

Í The outdoor Art Market at Vegas Metals is held on Saturdays, 10am–noon, in front of the shop at 214 Hunt St, right around the corner from the Farmers Market. Call 688-8267 for more info. Start- ing April 7, the hours will be 8am to noon.

Í The next District 1 PAC (Partners Against Crime) meeting will be held at the Holton Career & Resource Center (410 N Driver St) on Satur- day, March 17, 9:30am. Find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about City/ County services.

Í The Marry Durham–1st Anniversary Celebra- tion will be held on the 700 block of Rigsbee Ave on March 17, 2:30–5:30pm. There will be a parade,

MARCH 17–25

Í You can drop off Household Hazardous Waste on Tuesdays and Wednesdays noon to 6pm, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 7:30am to 3pm, at 1900 E Club Blvd. They’ll take paint, used motor oil, pesticides, fertilizers, pool cleaners, strong cleansers, stains, varnishes, and fluorescent bulbs. If necessary, wrap the containers with newspapers to absorb spills and place them in cardboard boxes for safe transport. For individuals only—commercial users are not allowed; call Durham One-Call at 560-1200 or visit http:// durhamnc.gov/ich/op/swmd/Pages/Hazardous- Waste.aspx for more info.

Í Overeaters Anonymous meetings are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30–1:30pm, at First Presbyterian Church (305 E Main St, 2nd floor of the Christian Ed Wing). Call Robin at 683- 3013 for more info. Meetings are also held on Saturdays, 10–11:30am, at Westminster Presby- terian Church (3639 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Youth Hut). Call Harriette at 596-9543 for more info. Sunday meetings are held at 10am for newcomers and 10:30am for regulars at the Structure House (3017 Pickett Rd, Room 220). Call Judith at 929-9891 for more info.

Í Home schooled students ages 5 and up are invited to join the Kids Guitar Ensemble on Wednesdays, 9:30–10:30am at High Strung (1116 Broad St). Ukulele, mandolin, and violin players are also welcome. Lorna Collingridge will teach the young musicians how to play music that’s arranged for groups. It’s free! Contact Ms Collingridge at 599-9372 or lcollingridge@gmail. com for more info.

Í Attention, jazz lovers: Check out Jazz at the Mary Lou on Wednesdays, 9:30pm–12:30am, at Duke University’s Mary Lou Williams Center in the West Union Bldg (off Science Dr). Duke and NCCU

LET’S GO! live entertainment, and concessions provided by the popular local food trucks.

Í Phillips Saylor will lead an Intro to Clawhammer Banjo workshop at High Strung Musical Instru- ments (1116 Broad St) on Sunday, March 18, 2–3:30pm. Learn the basic right-hand techniques and left-hand fretting. Bring your own banjo (short-term rentals are available). The cost is $15; call 286-3801 or check www.highstrung durham.com for more info.

Í Preservation Durham’s Spring Fundraiser will be held at Stone Bros and Byrd (700 Washing- ton St) on Friday, March 23, 5–8pm. Enjoy the live music; Stone Bros and Byrd will donate 10% of sales to Preservation Durham. Call 682-3036 or visit www.preservationdurham.org for more info.

Í Auditions for TeenFest 2k12 will take place on Saturday, March 24, 1–4pm, at B&D Behavioral Health Services (249 E Hwy 54, #320). TeenFest is the culmination of a year-round program to steer young people away from drugs, to think twice about committing acts of violence (including domestic violence), and to practice abstinence when the time comes for them to make a choice about beginning sexual activity.

TeenFest 2k12 will be held on Saturday, April 14 at the North Carolina Museum of History (5 E Edenton St in Raleigh. It’s a talent showcase where young people ages 14 to 19 compete for cash prizes. They’re encouraged to come up with original works, including spoken word, skits, and dance routines based on one or more of the TeenFest themes—anti-substance abuse, anti-violence, and pro-abstinence. First- place winners take home $1,000; 2nd-place winners get $500; and 3rd-place winners receive $250. There’s no registration fee; download the application at www.teenfest.org/teenfestonline and call 630-7227 for more info.

Í Singers, instrumentalists, and spoken-word artists are invited to showcase their talents at an Open Mic on Wednesday, March 21, 8pm at the Broad Street Café (1116 Broad St). Original music is preferred and all poetry and spoken- word pieces must be pg-rated. Free admission; call 416-9707 for more info.

Í Danny Gotham will lead a Playing Chord Melody–Style Ukulele workshop at High Strung Musical Instruments (1116 Broad St) on Sunday, March 25, 1–3pm. Learn how to play this style, which is usually associated with jazz guitar. Bring your own ukulele (short-term rentals are available). The cost is $20; call 286-3801 or check www.highstrungdurham.com for more info.

MARCH 26 – APRIL 1

Í Local historian and author Mena Webb, who’s 96 years old, will give a free talk about Durham’s history at the Hillcrest Convalescent Center (1417 W Pettigrew St) on Monday, March 26, 6pm. Call 286-7705 for more info.

Í The Little River Community Complex presents the Durham County Fair from March 29–April 8 at Durham County Memorial Stadium (N Roxboro and Stadium or Duke St and Stadium Dr). The hours are 5pm to closing Tuesday–Friday and 1pm to closing on Saturday and Sunday; please note that the fair is closed on Monday, April 2. Free admission and free parking; you can purchase a ticket for unlimited rides for $20, $18 with coupon.

Í Learn to eat a little less, a little better, and enjoy food a little more at a lecture, Mindless Eating: More Than You Think, which will be given at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro St) on Thursday, March 29, 6:30–8pm. It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.


LET’S GO! ter (1058 W Club Blvd, in Northgate Mall). Call 354-2748 for more info.

Í The Rougemont Ruritan Club presents the 9th annual Rougemont Easter Parade and Festival on Saturday, April 7. The kids can take part in the Easter Egg Hunt, jump around on the three moon bounces, and play games starting at 9:30am. The parade starts at 11am, and the festivities will continue with live bands and entertainment. Free parking will be available; watch for the signs on N Roxboro Rd. The parade will start on Cham- bers Rd and will proceed down Bacon Rd and across 501 (N Roxboro Rd) to Red Mountain Rd. Call 471-4773 for more info; download the Parade Entry Form at www.rougemont-ruritan.org if you want to participate in the parade (there’s no fee).

Í RTP Community Church (1727 Ed Cook Rd) will have an Easter Eggstravaganza on April 7, 11am–4pm. They’ll have an Easter Egg Hunt, bounce house and obstacle course, giveaways, and a visit from the Easter bunny. Chick fil-A will provide lunch. It’s free; call 596-4352 for more info.

APRIL 9–15

Í The next District 2 PAC (Partners Against Crime) meeting will be held at the Durham Public Schools’ Resource Center (2107 Hillandale Rd) on Monday, April 9, 6pm. Find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about City/ County services.

Í If you like science, check out Periodic Tables, which are monthly talks about science in an infor- mal setting (sponsored by the Museum of Life and Science), at the Broad St Café (1116 Broad St, 416-9707, www.thebroadstreetcafe.com). The next one will be held on Tuesday, April 10, 7pm; Dr Greg Sawicki, a biomedical engineer- ing professor at NC State University and UNC–

Í Durham Parks and Recreation will hold two Egg Hunts—at Campus Hills Park (2000 S Alston Ave) and West Point on the Eno Park (5101 N Roxboro Rd)—on Saturday, March 31, 10am.

Í More than 15 thousand books will be on sale at Durham Academy’s Used Book Sale on March 31, 8am–2pm and Sunday, April 1, noon–2pm. Most books will cost between $1 and $5; cash only. Durham Academy is located at 3116 Acad- emy Rd; call 267-3958 for more info.

APRIL 2–8

Í Work on a fun art project with your child in a Parent/Child Clay Workshop on Monday, April 2, 10–11:30am at the Durham Arts Council Clay Studio, in Northgate Mall (1058 W Club Blvd). Use stamps and color to decorate a clay Easter Egg. Because the clay projects need to be fired, your Easter egg won’t be ready for pickup for two weeks after the workshop. The cost is $15 per child; send email to ltannenbaum@durhamarts. org to register.

Í The Durham-Orange Genealogy Society will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, April 4, 7–9pm, in the Duke Homestead Tobacco Muse- um’s visitors center (2828 Duke Homestead Rd, 477-5498). Visit www.ncgenweb.us/dogsnc for more info.

Í Sometimes people who are out of work get all run down as they make the rounds dropping off resumés and trying to score interviews. At a free workshop, Personal Well-Being Workshop for Job Seekers, job-seekers will be encouraged to develop and maintain healthy bodies and minds and to adopt a positive, winning attitude. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, April 4, 5:30–6:30pm, at the Durham JobLink Career Cen-

LET’S GO! Chapel Hill, will talk about The PoWeR of Wear- able Robots.

Í The next District 5 PAC (Partners Against Crime) meeting will be held in City Hall’s Committee Room on the 2nd floor (101 City Hall Plaza) on Thursday, April 12, 5:30–7:30pm. Find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about City/County services.

Í Durham Parks and Recreation will hold a Com- munity Campfire at Maplewood Park (1507 Whitcomb St) on Friday, April 13, 7–8pm. Feel free to take your own ingredients for s’mores (graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marsh- mallows); take your acoustic guitar and create your own Kumbaya moments.

Í The next District 3 PAC (Partners Against Crime) meeting will be held at Lyon Park (1309 Halley St) on Saturday, April 14, 10am. Find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about City/County services.

Í The next District 4 PAC (Partners Against Crime) meeting will be held at IR Holmes Sr Recreation Center at Campus Hills (2000 S Alston Ave) on April 14, 10am. Find out what’s going on in your neighborhood and learn about City/County services.

Í The Music Explorium (5314 Hwy 55, Suite 107) will hold its Family Rhythm Jam for kids ages 3+ and their parents/guardians on April 14, 10–11am. The cost is $10/family. The Commu- nity Rhythm Circle, which is for teens and adults only, is from 8 to 9:30pm. All abilities are welcome; bring your own instrument (percussion, wind, stringed, found/sound), or borrow one from the store. Donations are accepted; call 484-9090 or visit www.musicexplorium.com for more info.

Í Go on an Urban Hike and learn about the history of West Durham with guide and local history buff John Schelp. The hike’s three-mile loop starts at historic Oval Park (Ninth and Green Sts) on April 14, 10am. (You can take your dog as long as he or she is well behaved and on a leash).

APRIL 16–20

Í Flit from venue to venue downtown during Third Friday on April 20, 6–9pm (depending on the venue). Enjoy art displays, live and recorded music, and snacks; participating spaces include the Durham Arts Council/Durham Art Guild, Bull City Arts Collaborative, Through This Lens, The Scrap Exchange, Durham Arts Place, Exotique, Claymakers, The Carrack Gallery, Golden Belt, and others. Check thirdfridaydurham.com for more info.

DURHAM COUNTY LIBRARY There’s more to the library than books! Join in some of the activities listed below—they’re all free! Visit the library’s informa-tive website at durhamcountylibrary.org for even more events and info.

Í MAIN LIBRARY, 300 N Roxboro St, 560-0100; Children’s Unit 560-0130; register for events at www.durhamcountylibrary.org Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm; Sundays 2–6pm.

• Lapsit Storytime (up to 23 months)—Mondays 10:30–11:30am; stories, fingerplays, and music; call to register. • Toddler Storytime (age 2)—Wednesdays 10:30–11:30am; stories and music; call to register. • Saturday Morning Storytime (up to 1st grade) —Saturdays 10:30–11:30am; call to register. • Drawing with Tom Czaplinski (ages 6–12)—


LET’S GO! • French Storytime (preschoolers)—March 21 and April 18, 10:30–11:30am; stories, music, and dance in English and French. • Gaming @ Bragtown (teens)—March 21, 3:30–5pm; play Wii games. • Family Fun Friday—March 25 and April 13, 3:30–5:30pm; play board games, watch a movie, read a book. • Celebrate Easter (preschoolers)—April 4, 10:30– 11:30am; bring a basket and search for the prize- filled egg; watch a movie; call to register. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 9, 10:30– 11:30am; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship. • Neighbor to Neighbor (adults)—April 13, noon–1:30pm; create a flower pot/planter; call to register.

Í EAST REGIONAL, 211 Lick Creek Ln (off Holloway/Hwy 98), 560-0203; Children’s Unit 560-0214 Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm; Sundays 2–6pm.

• Baby & Toddler Storytime (up to age 2)— Tuesdays 10:30–11am; stories, music, and rhymes. • Preschool Storytime (preschoolers)—Wednes- days 10:30–11am; books, songs, and crafts; call to register. • Over 50 Crowd (age 50+)—Tuesdays 10am– noon (except April 17); enjoy good conversation and food. SPECIAL DATES • Durham Voices (adults)—March 20 and April 3 and 17, 6:30–8:30pm; discuss and get feedback on your creative-writing project. • Resumé and Job Search Help (adults)—March 22 and April 19, noon–1pm; use the Learning Express’ Career Accelerator. • Teen Creative Writing Group—March 22 and April 5 and 19, 6:30–8pm; work on your stories and poems.

learn sketching techniques; call to register. • Tutoring with Casey Gabriel and Gwen Burney (elementary school–age)—Saturdays 10am–1pm; call to register for help with math, reading, and research projects. • Game Day (teens)—Tuesdays 3:30–5pm; play board- and video-games. SPECIAL DATES • Reading Rocks Book Club (teens)—March 22 and April 19, 4–5pm; talk about your favorite teen fiction books. • Latin American Music and Stories with Alex Weiss (all ages)—March 24, 10:30–11:30am; call to register. • Anime Adventures Club (teens)—March 29, 4–5pm; watch anime movies and talk about anime, manga, and graphic novels. • A Bunni-licious Easter Special (preschoolers)— April 4, 10:30–11:30am; Easter fun: stories, music, crafts, and a treat; call to register. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 12, 10:30– 11:30am; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship. • Earth Day Special (preschoolers)—April 19, 10:30am–noon; watch the movie Fern Gully; call to register. • Neno Na Muziki (Spoken Word and Music) (adults)—April 19, 6:30–8pm; open mic event: sing a song, read a passage, or play a musical selection.

Í BRAGTOWN LIBRARY FAMILY LITERACY CENTER, 3200 Dearborn Dr, 560-0210 Hours: Monday–Friday 2–6pm

• Homework Help (kindergarten–high school)— Monday–Thursday 3:30–5pm. • Boost Your Reading Skills! (kindergarten– elementary school)—Tuesdays 4:30–5:30pm; call to register. • Boogie Woogie Storytime (preschoolers)— Wednesdays 10:30–11:30am; stories, movies, movement, and crafts. SPECIAL DATES

LET’S GO! • College Foundation of North Carolina (high schoolers and their parents)—April 2, 6:30–8pm; get an overview of CFNC services and learn about financial aid. • Easter Craft (kindergartners)—April 4, all day; drop in and make Easter crafts. • Becoming a Foster Parent (adults)—April 9, 6:30–7:30pm; get info from the Durham County Department of Social Services. • Just Dance for the Whole Family (ages 6–12 and their families)—April 14, 2–3:30pm)—dance party; call to register. • Kinect Games (teens)—March 21 and April 11, 3:30–4:30pm; play videogames.

Í McDOUGALD TERRACE BRANCH, 1101 Lawson St, 560-0240 Hours: Monday–Friday 2–6pm

• Elementary Story Hour (grade schoolers)— Thursdays 4:30–5:30pm; enjoy stories and crafts. • Homework Help (elementary school–high school)—Monday–Thursday 4–5pm. • Science Mondays (kids)—Mondays 5–6pm; UNC students share stories and science experiments. • SMART Collective (middle schoolers)—Fridays 3:30–5pm; get academic support through fun activities in science, math, and research technology (visit smart-concepts.org for more info). • Teen Tuesdays (teens)—Tuesdays 5–6pm; hang out, talk about books, and play videogames. SPECIAL DATES • Sacrificial Poets Workshop (up to age 17)— March 19, 4–5:30pm; workshop for poets, rappers, and spoken-word artists. • Etiquette Workshop #2: What Not to Wear (up to age 17)—April 11, 4–5:30pm; learn how to “dress to impress” and take part in a fashion show. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 13, 10:30– 11:30am; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship.

Í NORTH REGIONAL, 221 Milton Rd, 560-0231; Children’s Unit 560-0232 Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm; Sundays 2–6pm.

• Baby Lapsit Storytime (up to age 2)—Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10:30–11am; stories, songs, rhymes, and fingerplays. • Teen Time (teens)—Monday–Friday 2:30–4pm; play games and participate in fun activities. • Wii Wednesday (teens)—Wednesdays 2:30–3:30pm (starting April 4); play Wii games. • Chess Club (all ages)—Saturdays 2–4:30pm; all skill levels welcome to join the North Durham Library Chess Club (a member of the US Chess Federation). • Riichi Mahjong (adults)—Mondays 1–4pm; play this game of strategy and luck. • Intermediate Bridge (adults)—Tuesdays 7–8:30pm; play this classic card game. • Knitting Club (adults)—Thursdays 6:30–8:30am; take a pair of size 8 bambbo needles and a skein of light-colored worsted-weight yarn. SPECIAL DATES • Cartooning with Casey (grade schoolers)— March 21, 4–5pm; learn how to draw fantasy art (dragons, castles, etc). • North Book Club (adults)—March 27, 10– 11am; read Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf. • Women’s Breast Wellness Patient Navigator Program Support (adults)—March 31, 10am– 1pm; bilingual (English and Spanish) breast cancer support group. • Mystery Book Club (adults)—April 9, 7–8:30pm; read Christine Falls by Benjamin Black. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 11, 11am– noon; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship. • Meet the Author: Alice Wisler—April 15, 3–4:30pm; inspiration fiction writer will discuss her books and writing in general.


LET’S GO! 15, 2:30–3:30pm; get tips from Master Gardeners of Durham County. • Teen Thursday: Spring Fling—April 19, 3:30– 4:30pm; compete in the peep-throwing contest.

Í SOUTHWEST REGIONAL, 3605 Shannon Rd, 560-8590; Children’s Unit 560-8592 Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm; Sundays 2–6pm.

• !Ayuda con la Tarea!/Homework Help! (grade schoolers)—Thursdays 6–8pm. • Movement and Music (preschoolers)— Thursdays 9:30–10am; dance moves to children’s music. • Baby Lapsit Storytime (up to age 2)—Wednes- days 9:45–10:15am, 10:30–11am, and 11:15– 11.45am; stories, songs, and rhymes. • Mah Jongg (adults)—Mondays 6:30–8:30pm and Thursdays 9:30–11:30am; play this game of strategy and luck; take your tiles and cards. • Down South Shuffle (adults)—Mondays 7–8:30pm; learn the latest line dances. SPECIAL DATES • Kids Comics Club (ages 7–12)—March 20 and April 17, 4–4:45pm; learn how to draw comics and create a comic book; call to register. • Beyblade Club (ages 7–12)—March 23 and April 20, 4–4:45pm; bring your beyblades and stadium. • Crazy Science! (ages 7–12)—March 27, 4–4:45pm; fun with science experiments; call to register. • Cascarón Hunt—April 2: 1–2pm for babies, 4–5pm for ages 6–12; fun egg hunt in the Mexican Easter tradition; call to register. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 10, 6–7pm; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship. • Gluten-Free Baking (adults)—April 10, 7–8pm; learn how to make tasty, gluten-free snacks. • African Writers Book Club (adults)—April 17, 2:15–4:15pm; read One Day I Will Write About This

Í SOUTH REGIONAL, 4505 S Alston Ave, 560-7409; Children’s Unit 560-7441 Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm; Sundays 2–6pm.

• Lapsitters (6–23 months)—Wednesdays 10:30– 11am; fingerplays, songs, rhymes, and stories. • Rhymetime (age 2)—Mondays 9:30–10am and 10:30–11am; songs, rhymes, and fingerplays. • Family Storytime (preschoolers)—Mondays 7–7:30pm; stories, songs, and crafts. • Homework Help/Tutoring (grades 6–12)— Mondays 3:30–6pm; help with science, math, social studies, and language arts. • Spanish/English Conversation—Saturdays 3–4:30pm; brush up on your Spanish while helping native Spanish-speakers work on their English. SPECIAL DATES • 6th–8th Grade Book Club—March 24, 2–3pm; read and discuss books; sign up online and pick up a book at the Information Desk.

• Tag: Teen Advisory Group Meeting— March 24, 3–4pm. • Container Gardening: Growing Veggies, Herbs & Blooms on Your Porch—March 25, 2:30–3:30pm; gardening tips from Master Gardeners of Durham County. • Teen Thursday: Game Day—March 29, 3:30– 5pm; play Mario Kart, Wii, X-box Kinect, Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Hero, Madden, and old-school boardgames. • Wii Night for Adults: Bowling—March 29, 6–8pm; enjoy Wii bowling and refreshments; call to register. • Teen Thursday: Recycling Crafts—April 5, 3:30–4:30pm; celebrate Earth Day. • Celebrate National Library Week with Puppets to Go (all ages)—April 12, 7–8pm; enjoy Jeremy’s Jungle Adventure, a story of friendship. • Outsmarting the Critters: Dealing with Deer, Rabbits, Squirrels, Moles & Voles—April

LET’S GO! Place by Binyavanga Wainaina. • Spring Gardening Fun! (ages 4–8)—April 19, 4–4:45pm; plant seeds and watch them grow; call to register.

Í STANFORD L WARREN BRANCH, 1201 Fayetteville St, 560-0270 Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am– 9pm; Wednesdays 9am–6pm; Fridays 2–6pm; Saturdays 9:30am–6pm.

• Preschool Storytime (preschoolers)—Mondays 10:30–11:30am; stories, crafts, and movement. • Storytime with Miss Trish (preschoolers)— Wednesdays 10:30–11:30am; music, dance, reading, and crafts. • SMART Collective (middle schoolers)—Tuesdays 3:30–6pm; get academic support through fun activities in science, math, and research technology (visit smart-concepts.org for more info). SPECIAL DATES • Sacrificial Poets: Spoken Word Workshop— March 21, 4–5:30pm; workshop for rappers, poets, and spoken-word artists. • Game Day (up to age 17)—March 26, 2–4pm; play board- and video-games. • Anime Club (teens)—April 4, 4–5pm; pre- view movies and talk about your favorite anime, manga, and graphic novels. • Teen Book Group (teens)—April 9, 4–5pm; NCCU students will lead discussions on teen books. • The Toasts & the Signifying Monkey—April 12, 7–8:30pm; Dr Bruce Bridges will discuss and perform “toasts” and the humor tradition in African-American music.

DURHAM PARKS & RECREATION These are just a few programs (and not all of the parks are listed). Pick up a “Play More” newspaper at most parks or call the DPR office at 560-4355 for more info. If you get a Play More card, you can save money on classes and afterschool programs! PlayMore card prices: $20/individual, $35/two people, $10/teen.

Í EAST DURHAM NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER, 2615 Harvard Ave, 560-4278

• Project TEAM (Teach, Empower, Achieve, Motivate) (ages 13–17)—Monday–Friday 3–5pm; academic achievement, life skills, team exercise, and community service; $12, free with Play More Card (course #6592). • In da Basement (ages 13–18)—Fridays 5–11pm; develop leadership and communication skills; free (course #6597).

Í EDISON JOHNSON RECREATION CENTER, 600 W Murray Ave, 560-4270; Aquatic Center 560-4265

• Zumba (ages 16+)—Tuesdays 6:15–7:15pm; move and exercise to Latin and world music; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7213). • Aerobics High/Low (age 16+)—Tuesdays 6:15– 7:15pm; workouts with cardio work, body- weighted exercises, and abdominal exercises; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7217). AqUATIC CENTER • Recreational Swim (all ages)—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 1–3pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays 1–3pm; $4, $3 with Play More card. • Lifeguard Training Course (age 15+)—April 20– 29, Fridays 5:30–8:30pm, Saturdays 9am–5pm, and Sundays noon–6pm; $190, $175 with Play More card (course #7327).

Í HOLTON CAREER & RESOURCE CENTER, 401 N Driver St, 354-2750

• African Movement and Relaxation (age 13+) —Tuesdays 6–7pm; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7150). • Open Gym/Basketball (age 13–17)—Thursdays 6–9pm, Saturdays 10am–1pm, and Sundays 1–4pm; free (course #7152). • Resource Center (age18+)—Mondays and Thurs- days 11am–1pm; a place to work quietly on special projects or job/school-related work in the


LET’S GO! 1–5pm; $4, $3 with Play More card. • Lifeguard Training Course (age 15+)—March 23–April 1, Fridays 5:30–8:30pm, Saturdays 9am– 5pm, and Sundays noon–6pm; $190, $175 with Play More card (course #7260). SPECIAL DATES • Safe Sitter (ages 11–13)—March 26, 8am–5pm; learn all about babysitting: behavior management, health and safety, and game/activity ideas; $22, $20 with Play More card.

Í (COMMUNITY FAMILY LIFE & RECREATION CENTER AT) LYON PARK, 1309 Halley St, 560-4288

• Project TEAM (Teach, Empower, Achieve, Motivate) (ages 13–17)—Monday–Thursday 4–6pm; academic achievement, life skills, team exercise, and community service; $12, free with Play More Card (course #6593). • Resource Center (ages 13–54)—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 6–8pm; a place to work quietly on special projects or job/school- related work in the computer lab; free (course #6616). SPECIAL DATES • Jr Fire Marshall (ages 10–18)—April 9–12, 9am– 2pm; learn about fire safety and the fire-fighting profession; free (course #6619).

Í TA GRADY, 531 Lakeland St, 560-4280

• Project TEAM (Teach, Empower, Achieve, Motivate) (ages 13–17)—Monday–Friday 3–6pm; academic achievement, life skills, team exercise, and community service; $12, free with Play More Card (course #6594).

Í WALLTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER, 1300 E Club Blvd, 560-4296

• Open Gym/Basketball (age 13–17)—Sundays 2–4pm; free (course #6937). • Zumba (ages 16+)—Wednesdays 6:15–7:15pm;

computer lab; free (course #7206). • Open Gym/Basketball (age 18+)—Tuesdays 6–8pm and Sundays 4–6pm; $3, $2 with Play More card (course #7149). SPECIAL DATES • Intersession Camps (ages 6–12)—March 26–30, 7:30am–6pm, $132, $120 with Play More card (course #7112); April 2–5, 7:30am–6pm, $132, $120 with Play More card (course #7113); April 9–13, 7:30am–6pm, $132, $120 with Play More card (course #7114). • Sunshine Garden Club (age 13+)—April 7, 10:30am–12:30pm; free (course #7181). • Sustain! (age 13+)—April 14, 10:30am–12:30pm; interactive workshop that explores reducing energy use and cost, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and learning to reuse and recycle; $1, free with Play More card (course #7178).

Í IR HOLMES SR RECREATION CENTER AT CAMPUS HILLS, 2000 S Alston Ave, 560-4444; Aquatic Center 560-4781

• Open Gym/Basketball (age 13–17)—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 2:45–4:45pm; Sundays 2–4pm; free (course #7161). • Wellness Center for Teens (ages 13–17)— Thursdays 2:45–4:45pm; guided workouts; free (course #7147). • Zumba (ages 16+)—Mondays 6:15–7:15pm and Fridays noon–1pm; move and exercise to Latin and world music; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7166). • Aerobics High/Low (age 16+)—Wednesdays 6–7pm; workouts with cardio work, body- weighted exercises, and abdominal exercises; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7217). • Wellness Center (age 18+)—Monday–Friday 11:45am–2:45pm, 4:45–7pm, and Saturdays 9:30am–1pm; separate facility with treadmills, recumbent bikes, free weights, medicine balls, and stability balls; $5, $4 with Play More card. AqUATIC CENTER • Recreational Swim (all ages)—Monday–Friday 10am–noon and 1–4pm; Saturdays and Sundays

LET’S GO! move and exercise to Latin and world music; $5, $4 with PlayMore card (course #6930). • Open Gym/Basketball (age 18+)—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 8:30–10:30am; Wednes- days 7:30–9pm; and Sundays 4–6pm; $3, $2 with Play More card (course #6934). • Hula Hoop Fitness (age 18+)—Mondays 6:15– 7:15pm; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #6938). • Resource Center (age18+)—Mondays 6–9pm and Saturdays 10am–1pm; a place to work quietly on special projects or job/school- related work in the computer lab; free (course #6989). SPECIAL DATES • Jr Majorette: Beginner Twirl Sensations (ages 5–14)—Saturdays 10–11am, March 24–April 28; $17, $15 with Play More card (course #6981). • Jr Majorette: Intermediate Twirl Sensations (ages 5–14)—Saturdays 11am–noon, March 24– April 28; $17, $15 with Play More card (course #6982). • Open Gym/Basketball (age 13–17)—March 26 (Teach Workday), 11am–2pm and 2–4pm; free (course #6941). • Campus 2 Campus College Tours (ages 13–17) —April 9, 8am–5pm (course #6971); April 10, 8am–5pm (course #6972); April 11, 8am–5pm (course #6973); April 12, 8am–5pm (course #6974); April 19, 8am–5pm (course #6975); build your resumé, work on your college application(s), and tour colleges and universities across the state; free. • Job Readiness Program (ages 13–17)—April 9– 13, 9am–2pm; learn about “dressing for success,” work etiquette, resumé writing, budgeting/ money management, and preparing for a job interview; free (course #6976).

Í WD HILL RECREATION CENTER, 1308 Fayetteville St, 560-4292

• African Movement and Relaxation (age 13+) —Saturdays 11:15am–12:15pm; $5, $4 with Play More card (course #7346).

• Open Gym/Basketball (age 18+)—Saturdays 4–6pm; $3, $2 with Play More card (course #7347). • DSCL Lunch (age 60+)—Monday–Friday 9am–1:30pm; stop by anytime after 9am for socializing, games, or exercise, or arrive at 11:30am for a nutritious lunch; donation accepted ($2 recommended).

Í WEAVER STREET RECREATION CENTER, 3000 Weaver St, 560-4294

• Project TEAM (Teach, Empower, Achieve, Motivate) (ages 13–17)—Monday–Friday 3–5:30pm; academic achievement, life skills, team exercise, and community service; $12, free with Play More card (course #6595). • Resource Center (age18+)—Monday–Thursday 1–2:30pm; a place to work quietly on special projects or job/school-related work in the computer lab; free (course #6608). SPECIAL DATES • Cooking Workshop (age 15+)—April 12, 6:30– 7:30pm; learn how to cook tasty dishes; $1, free with Play More card (course #6889).

Í WEST POINT ON THE ENO PARK, 5101 N Roxboro St, 471-1623

• Spring Break Trip: Hike (ages 10–14)—April 9, 7:30am–5:30pm; explore Hill Forest, which is used by NCSU as a demonstration for its students; $13, $12 with Play More card (course #6737).

• Spring Break Trip: Lake Michie (ages 10–14)— April 10, 7:30am–5:30pm; go canoeing and hike along the Lake Michie Recreation Area; $13, $12 with Play More card (course #6738).

• Spring Break Trip: Upper Flat River (ages 10– 14) —April 11, 7:30am–5:30pm; go canoeing and hike along the Flat River where it meets Lake Michie; $13, $12 with Play More card (course #6739).


LET’S GO! www.witherspoonrose.com; free gardening workshops with an emphasis on their specialty: Roses. Call to sign up:

• Fertilizing: A Jumpstart for Your Roses — March 17, 10am. • How to Plant a “Premium” Rose Garden— April 7, 10am.

Í See old homesteads, mills, graveyards, and Indian trading paths while going on a Winter Hike along the Eno River on Sunday afternoons. It’s free; call 620-9099 to find out where to meet at 2pm.

Í Enjoy a hike through the forest at West Point on the Eno City Park (5101 N Roxboro Rd) looking for Animal Tracks on Saturday, March 24, 10am– noon. It’s free; call Chris Shepard at 471-1623 to register.

Í Enjoy a Bird Walk in an area around Ellerbe Creek on March 24, 2–4pm. Meet guide Robert Meehan at 17-Acre Wood’s main entrance at the corner of Perennial Dr and Albany St. It’s free; send email to [email protected] with any questions.

Í The next Morehead Planetarium–sponsored Skywatcher Session will be held on March 24, 8–10pm, in Jordan Lake State Park (Ebenezer Church Recreation Area). If the weather’s just right, you can expect to see Venus, the Moon, Jupiter, and Mars. However, if weather conditions cause you to think that the session might be cancelled, call 962-1236 to check. Call the same number for directions, or check the website at www.moreheadplanetarium.org.

Í Learn all about vermicomposting at The Scrap Exchange’s Worm Bin Workshop at their new space, 923 Franklin St (at Golden Belt), on Thurs -

• Spring Break Trip: Eno River (ages 10–14)— April 12, 7:30am–5:30pm; explore the Eno River by canoe and take a hike in the woods; $13, $12 with Play More card (course #6740).

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Í Sarah P Duke Gardens, 426 Anderson St, 684- 3698, hr.duke.edu/dukegardens; gardening workshops are held in the Doris Duke Center; call 668-1707 or 1708 to reserve your spot:

• The Master Gardeners’ Extension Gardening Series: Container Gardening—March 18, 2–4pm; free, but call to register. • Durham Garden Forum: Herb Gardening— March 20, 6:30–8pm; $10, free for Friends ($25 annual membership). • Cherry Blossom Festival—March 25, 11:30am– 2pm; $10, $5 for kids and Friends. • Early Spring Jewels: Field Studies—March 31, 9am–1pm; $18, $15 for Friends. • Historic Gardens Color Walk—April 5, 9–11am; $5, free for Friends. • Walk on the Wild Side—April 5, 11am–noon; tour the Blomquist Garden of Native Plants; $5, free for Friends. • Spring Pruning—April 7, 10am–noon; $25, $20 for Friends. • Bird Walks—April 7, 8–10am; $5, free for Friends (call to register). • The Triangle Orchid Society will meet at the Doris Duke Center on Monday, April 9, 7:30pm. Check www.triangleorchidsociety.org for more info. • Spring Flower Walk in the Arboretum—April 13, 10am; $5, free for Friends. • Durham Garden Forum: Vegetables as Orna- ment—April 17, 6:30–8pm; $10, free for Friends ($25 annual membership).

Í Witherspoon Rose Culture, 3312 Watkins Rd (off Hwy 15-501), 489-4446,

LET’S GO! day, March 29, 7–9pm. Delight your kids by making your own compost with the aid of hungry worms. The cost is $40; visit www.scrapexchange. org for more info.

HEALTH

Í Free, confidential HIV tests are administered at the Lincoln Community Health Center (1301 Fay- etteville St) on Mondays, 5–7:30pm, in the Spe- cialty Clinic. They use OraQuick, an oral mouth swab, and results are available in 30 minutes. No appointment is necessary; send email to durham [email protected] for more info.

Í The next Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Can- cer Support Group Meeting will be held on Tuesdays, 2–3:30pm, in Duke Clinic (Trent St, off Erwin Rd), conference room 1993. Family members are welcome; call 684-4497 for more info.

Í The next Leukemia, Lymphoma, Multiple Mye- loma Support Group Meeting will be held on Monday, March 19, 11am–12:30pm, in Duke Clinic (Trent St, off Erwin Rd), conference room 1993. Family members are welcome; call 684- 4497 for more info. (Additional meetings will be held on April 2 and 16.)

Í Learn how to treat your headaches (including migraines) with medications, exercise, and supple- ments at the My Head Is Killing Me seminar on Monday, March 19, 6:30–8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í Discuss treatment and risk factors at the Pancrea- tic Cancer Basics seminar on March 19, 6:30– 8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í The next Crohn’s and Colitis Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 20, 6pm, in the Steadman Building Library on the Center for Living Campus (3475 Erwin Rd). It’s free; call 489-1950 to register. (Another meeting will be held on April 17.)

Í Learn about medications and lifestyle changes for Keeping Your Blood Pressure Down, at a lecture given on Thursday, March 22, 7–8:30pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í Hear about clinical trials and new treatments for Peanut Allergies at a lecture given on Monday, March 26, 6:30–8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í The next Alzheimer’s Patient/Caregiver Sup- port Group meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 27, 10:30am–noon, at Grey Stone Baptist Church (2601 Hillsborough Rd). Contact Lisa Gwyther at 660-7510 or [email protected] for more info.

Í The next Breast and Gynecologic Cancer Sup- port Group Meeting will be held on Wednes- day, March 28, 3–4:30pm, in Duke Clinic (Trent St, off Erwin Rd), conference room 1993. Family members are welcome; call 684-4497 for more info. (Another meeting will be held on April 11.)

Í Help your neighbors by donating blood at Duke University Hospital Blood Drive, which will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 9:30am–3pm, in the Medical Center Library of the Seeley G Mudd Building. Visit http://duke.givesblood.org to schedule your appointment.


LET’S GO!Í Learn about ways to decrease back pain and improve flexibility at a lecture on Posture: Align- ing for Good Health, which will be given on Wednesday, April 11, 6:30–8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). It’s free; call 416- DUKE to register.

Í Lots of folks join the Heart & Sole Mall Walkers Club and walk at their leisure in Northgate Mall (1058 W Club Blvd) anytime between 7am and 9pm Monday through Saturday and between 9am and 6pm on Sundays. Stop by Chick-fil-A at 8:30am on Tuesday, April 10 for the free monthly breakfast, free health screenings, and health talk before starting your morning walk. Call 286-4400 for more info.

MUSEUMS • GALLERIES • EXHIBITS

Í Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St, http://durhamarts.org Gallery Hours: Monday–Saturday 9am–9pm and Sundays 1–6pm; free admission:

A new exhibit, Screened: New Work by the Printmakers of North Carolina, will be on display through April 15 in the Allenton and Semans galleries.

Í Museum of Life and Science, 433 Murray Ave, 220-5429, www.ncmls.org Hours: Monday–Saturday 10am–5pm and Sundays noon–5pm; admission: $10.85 for adults; $8.85 for seniors (age 65+) and active and retired military (with proper ID); $7.85 for kids ages 3 to 12; and free for kids age 2 and under. Group rate is $7 each for 10 or more. Wednesday is free day after 1pm:

The museum’s new Math Moves! exhibit allows kids ages 6 to 12 (and their families) to create 3D

Í The next Daughters Concerned for Aging Relatives Support Group meeting will be held on March 28, noon–1pm, in the Duke Clinic Bldg (formerly Duke Hospital South) (in Room 3512 in the Blue Zone). You can park in Parking Deck I on Trent Dr; call Bobbi G Matchar at 660-7510 for more info.

Í The Low-Carb Support Group will have its next meeting on Tuesday, April 3, 6:30–8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Roxboro Rd). Learn how to take the low-carbohydrate or low-glycemic approach to diet (plus exercise and stress management) to stabilize and improve your cardiovascular health and lose weight. It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í Sometimes people who are out of work get all run down as they make the rounds dropping off resumés and trying to score interviews. At a free workshop, Personal Well-Being Workshop for Job Seekers, job-seekers will be encouraged to develop and maintain healthy bodies and minds and to adopt a positive, winning attitude. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, April 4, 5:30–6:30pm, at the Durham JobLink Career Cen- ter (1058 W Club Blvd, in Northgate Mall). Call 354-2748 for more info.

Í Learn about strategies for taking care of and improving your voice at an Overcoming Hoarse- ness lecture that will be given on Thursday, April 5, 6:30–8pm, at the Teer House (4019 N Rox- boro Rd). It’s free; call 416-DUKE to register.

Í The KidsCan! Support Group is for young people ages six through 18 whose parent/caregiver has been diagnosed with cancer. The next one will be held on Monday, April 9, 6–8pm, in Duke Clinic’s Morris Bldg on Trent Dr, off Erwin Rd. Call 684-4497 or email [email protected]. edu to register.

LET’S GO! objects with blocks and to use their bodies as units of measurement. They’ll also learn about ratios and proportions and get an early intro- duction to algebra.

In the Flip It, Fold It, Figure It Out! section of Math Moves!, you can use arithmetic and geometry to learn the folding art of origami, figure out how quilts are made, and experience seeing ordinary household items in a new way.

Get close-up views of bugs at the Bayer Crop- Science Insectarium, which is inside the Magic Wings Butterfly House. Watch large spiders, poison dart frogs, and check out the live caterpillar “munch-cam,” which allows you to experience a caterpillar eating a leaf up close.

Í Nasher Museum of Art, 2001 Campus Dr, 684-5135, http://nasher.duke.edu museum Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 10am–5pm; Thursdays 10am–9pm; Sundays noon–5pm; $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 non-Duke students with ID, free for young people age 15 and under; Thursdays 5–9pm is free for everyone (except for special ticketed exhibits); parking is $2/hour:

A new exhibit, Alexander Calder and Contempo- rary Art: Form, Balance, Joy, features the colorful sculptures and mobiles of Calder and young artists including Martin Boyce, Nathan Carter, Abraham Cruzvillegas, Aaron Curry, Kristi Lippire, Jason Meadows and Jason Middlebrook. Alexander Calder and Contemporary Art will be on display through June 17.

Angels, Devils and the Electric Slide: Outsider Art from the Permanent Collection is an exhibit that features untrained artists who incorporate found objects and materials in their work. Angels, Devils and the Electric Slide is on display through July 8.

Í North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, 715-5923, www.ncartmuseum.org museum Hours: Tuesday–Thursday and Saturdays 9am–5pm, Fridays 9am–9pm, Sundays 10am– 5pm; free admission to museum and the permanent collection; $$$ for special exhibitions and some programs like concerts, films, classes, and performances:

Presence/Absence is a collection of photographs that hint at the human experience. No humans appear in the pictures, but their presence is implied in the photos of abandoned buildings and objects left behind. Presence/Absence is on display through May 27.

Reflections: Portraits by Beverly McIver is a collection of paintings that explore the range of human emotion. McIver is an African-American artist who’s known as one of the subjects of the documentary, Raising Renee (Renee is her mentally disabled sister). Reflections is on display through June 24.

Í North Carolina Museum of History, 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, 807-7900, http://ncmuseumofhistory.org museum Hours: Monday–Saturday 9am–5pm, Sundays noon–5pm; free admission:

See Richard Petty’s race car, Arnold Palmer’s Ryder Cup golf bag, and Meadowlark Lemon’s Harlem Globetrotters basketball uniform at the North Car- olina Sports Hall of Fame. You can also see arti- facts from other members, including Dale Earn- hardt, Russell Blunt, Roman Gabriel, Jim “Catfish” Hunter, Sam Jones, Christian “Sonny” Jurgensen, Coach Mike Krzyzewski, John Lucas Jr, Gaylord Perry, Wallace Wade, LeRoy Walker, and Kay Yow.

Í Through This Lens, 303 E Chapel Hill St, 687-0250, http://throughthislens.com Hours: Tuesday–Friday 10:30am–5:30pm,


LET’S GO! Saturdays 10:30am–4pm (Third Fridays until 9pm); free admission:

A new exhibit, Industrial Blues, consists of photos that celebrate the vibrant colors that can be found in unexpected places. Brightly colored bridges, stairways and fences might be quickly noticed and then forgotten, but Gunther Cart- wright gives us a chance to stand back and admire his vision of the industrial landscape. Industrial Blues is on display through April 18.

THEATER • FILM • DANCE • RADIO • TELEVISION

Í WNCU/90.7fm, North Carolina Central University; listen online at wncu.org:

Be sure to listen to Radio Skywriter every Satur- day from 8:30–9am on WNCU. Durham Skywriter publisher Pat Murray and her guests talk about community issues and let you know what’s hap- pening in the Bull City (and beyond). Don’t forget your pen and paper—we might have just the information you need! If you miss the broadcast, you can go to wncu.org from the following Tuesday for at least a week and listen to the podcast.

Í North Carolina Central University’s Depart- ment of Theatre, University Theater, Farrison- Newton Communications Building, 530-6242, box office 530-5170, www.nccu.edu/academics/ sc/liberalarts/theatredrama/:

The choreopoem “For Brothers & Sisters Who Chose Life—When Death Was Not an Option” will be performed on April 13, 14, 20, and 21 at 8pm, and April 15 and 22 at 2pm.

Low- to moderate-income residents can get help with filing income-tax returns free of charge at these following Volun-teer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites:

• DPSStaffDevelopmentCenter (2107 Hillandale Rd, in the Cafeteria) – call 667-1000 to set appointment or go to nc-tac.com Hours: Monday–Friday 3–8pm, Saturdays 9am–2pm.

• CityHallBuilding (101 City Hall Plaza) – call 667-1000 for appointment or go to nc-tac.com Hours: Monday–Friday 9am–3pm.

• DurhamCountyDSS (300 N Duke St) – call 667-1000 for appointment or go to nc-tac.com Hours: Monday–Friday 9am–3pm.

• LatinoCommunityCreditUnion (100 W Morgan St) – call 530-8800 for appointment Hours: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm. • NorthRegionalBranchLibrary (221 Milton Rd) – no appointment necessary Hours: Mondays 5:30–8pm.

• DurhamRescueMission/Women’sResidence (507 E Knox St) – call 688-9641 for appointment Hours: Mondays 5:30–7:30pm.

• LyonCommunityandFamilyLifeCenter(1313 Halley St) – no appointment necessary Hours: Tuesdays 1–3pm.

• NCLegalAid(201 W Main St, Suite 400) – call 688-6396 for appointment Hours: Tuesdays 1–7pm.

• DurhamCountyMainLibrary(300 N Roxboro St) – no appointment necessary Hours: Saturdays 5:30–8pm; March 31 and Apr 14, 10am–1pm.

• DurhamRescueMission/Men’sResidence (1201 E Main St) – call 688-9641 for appointment Hours: Tuesdays 5:30–7:30pm.

LET’S GO!

NOW HEAR THIS!

Durham/Triangle/Triad–area artists: Send us your latest CD and information if you want to be featured in the Skywriter.

Yolanda Rabun, longtime vocalist with smooth jazz saxophonist Stanley Baird, has stepped out on his own with a nice collection of celebratory songs about real love. The musicians—Stanley Baird, Chris Evans, James Perry, Chris Thompson, Cedric Hardin, Bobby Caddell and Felicia Wright, Raymond Watkins, John Howard, Lamar Cherry, Clifford Cotton II—are topnotch. Rabun’s voice is both soulful and sultry, and she sounds as if she means exactly what she says. “So Real” will appeal to fans of R&B, smooth jazz, and heartfelt love songs.

READ ALLABOUT IT!

Durham/Triangle/Triad–area authors: Send us your latest book and information if you want to be featured in the Skywriter.

This is the book of poetry that Amiri Baraka told Darrell Stover to write. Literary activist, cultural historian, story- teller, and poet Stover celebrates icons both faraway like Chaka Khan, Oscar Brown Jr, and Tupac Shakur and local like Baba Chuck Davis and Raleigh’s Helping Hands Mission Marching Band. Sprinkled throughout the book are flyers and programs from special events that Stover led and participated in in Washington DC and Durham. After seeing Darrell Stover and Amiri Baraka perform their works in person, I suggest that you read the poems from “Somewhere Deep Down When” out loud. The words are more delicious that way.

(available at the Regulator Bookshop, and at www.scipoet.com in mid-May)

Darrell “SciPoet” Stover / “Somewhere Deep Down When”

• WDHillRecreationCenter(1308 Fayetteville St) – no appointment necessary Hours: Wednesdays 1–3pm.

• SouthwestRegionalLibrary (3605 Shannon Rd) – no appointment necessary Hours: Thursdays 4–7pm.

• DurhamCenterforSeniorLife (406 Rigsbee Ave) – no appointment necessary Hours: Fridays 10am–1pm.

• DukeUniversityFederalCreditUnion (2200 W Main St, in Erwin Square Plaza) – call 684-6704 for appointment Hours: Fridays 11am–5pm.

• NCCUSchoolofLaw (640 Nelson St) – walk-ins OK; call 530-6011 for appointment or go to nc-tac.com Hours: Fridays 4–7pm and Saturdays 9am–3pm.

• ElCentroHispano (201 W Main St) – call 687-4635 for appointment Hours: Saturdays 10am–2pm.

• InternationalHouse (2022 Campus Dr) – email ihouse@duke. edu for appointment (foreign nationals/students/scholars only) Hours: Saturdays 10am–2pm.

Services provided: Federal (1040s) and North Carolina tax returns for low- to moderate-income taxpayers, including retirees. Be sure to take the following items with you:

• anytaxformsandotherinformationreceivedfromtheIRS • lastyear’staxreturns • wageandearningstatement(s)formW-2,W-2G,1099-R • photoidentification • SocialSecuritycards(yours,yourspouse’s,anddependents) • birthdates(yours,yourspouse’s,anddependents) • childcareproviderinformation • interest,dividend,tuition,andmortgageforms1099and1098 • bankroutingnumberandaccountnumberfordirectdeposit.

YourreturnswillbecompletedbycertifiedvolunteerswhoareallcertifiedbytheInternalRevenueService(IRS).Returnscanbefiledelectronically.Allinformationiskeptconfidential.

Yolanda Rabun / “So Real”

(available at NCCU’s campus bookstore (705 E Lawson St, 530-6445), soon at EagleLand (2501 Fayetteville St, 956-5393),

cdbaby.com, and iTunes)

Guest spotlight

The Durham Skywriter 1910 Capps Street Durham, North Carolina [email protected] 919-809-YOU2 (9682)

Send us your poems, cartoons, commentary, photos, artwork, etc if you’d like to be in our “Guest spotlight.”Keep it positive, and keep in mind that we can’t return what you send us (so don’t send your only copy).

— darrell “scipoet” stover

Want to write me a Coltrane PoemA poem that hits starsShattering into rains

Of sound comingDown all aroundShouts, screams

Bebop yells Bohemian

BlackBlows BEYOND

Want to write us a Coltrane poemA poem snatching hearts

Into a Love SupremeCooperativeCollective of

Our favorite thingsChillin’

Absolute CoolProfound Cool

Out there

Want to write Coltrane a Coltrane poemA poem sending thank you’sTo you whenever wherever

You are played in brainIn the great on and on

Take us

colt

rane

poe

m

durham skywriter—march/april 2012

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