Dogs are truly man’s best friend. There’s no greater joy than basking in the love from a four legged animal that trusts you and relies on you for comfort, warmth, safety, and food. Even when they are misbehaving, you can’t be too harsh on them because they are so cute, cuddly, and fiercely loyal. Some dog breeds like pit bulls have received less than favorable stereotypes over the years because humans have negatively exploited their strength and abused them. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on how pit bulls have always been in the hearts of Americans as a favorite dog breed, despite their polarizing reputation.

I’ve always heard that if you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything. It’s applicable in today’s society as well as historically, since oppressive regimes have been overcome by brave people standing up for themselves. Having the gall to put your livelihood, family, or even your life on the line is an intimidating, but vital part of fighting for change in society. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the Creole Mutiny of 1841.

Some things are so bad, you just can’t look away. It’s like watching a plane crash and being completely stuck in place from shock. Some movies and shows are like that and as much as you want to just completely erase it from your mind, something has you hooked so well that you have to see it through. One of the series that has lived rent free in my mind as of late is Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black.

Change often comes with revolt. From the beginning of history, change is usually brought on not only by tyrannical regimes, but also by unfair and inequitable social situations. From slave revolts to George Floyd protests, Black Americans are no strangers to putting their lives on the line to fight for better treatment and conditions. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the New Orleans Black workers’ strike, which became one of the very first integrated strikes in American history.

Power is often determined by financial strength in society. The famous saying, “Money talks” has always been a way to justify special privileges just based on a person’s wealth. For centuries, Black Americans were denied the liberties to make their own money, buy property, operate businesses, and were even forced to pay different prices just because of their skin tone. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Capital Savings Bank, the very first Black-owned bank in the United States.

During the 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement was heating up and many different organizations were formed to fight for and advance the rights of Black Americans. Ideals ranged from nonviolent protests to more direct methods of confrontation. Almost all of the organizations that were designed for change were infiltrated, undermined, and outright targeted by the government, which ultimately stalled forward progress. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on the Black Panther Party, one of the most well-known revolutionary organizations of its time.

All work and no play is literally no fun. Taking a vacation, hopefully more than once a year, can help reset your mind and effectively break you out of your stale daily routine. It allows you to experience brand new things like cuisines, events, games, and scenery all while making life-lasting memories. Recently, my husband and I took a much needed trip to Nashville, Tennessee and got to rest, relax, and explore the Music City.

When his active basketball days were officially behind him, Michael Jordan didn’t just fade into obscurity. Timely business moves led to lucrative endorsement deals that ultimately helped push him even higher and higher as a celebrity. He’s one of only a handful of other players who have bridged over from a professional athlete into a successful business man with various investments. Join me as we conclude the Historical Spotlight Series on Michael Jordan and dive into just how he cemented himself into a popular, household name.

Like most legendary players, Michael Jordan wasn’t satisfied with just one win. He wanted to stay at the top for as long as possible and relied on his drive, work ethic, and competitiveness to keep improving towards success. While he faced some challenges along the way, he continued to persevere to play the sport he loved. His performance on the court was a testament to all the sacrifice, training, and time he put in to be number one. Join me as we continue the Historical Spotlight Series on Michael Jordan. 

Basketball is a sport enjoyed by millions around the world. It requires practice, time, dedication, and oftentimes sacrifice to become one of the elites who continue to spark debates well past their retirement. From layups to jumpshots, players work hard to make themselves known for their athletic ability. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight Series on one of, if not the best, basketball player in the world, Michael Jordan.