July 12, 2016

Three very different discussions were undertaken at this morning’s Forum. Some of it was dignified and organized. Some was as raw and contentious as the nation’s mood in these days after police shootings in Minnesota and Louisiana, and the killing of five police officers in Dallas.

Bernice Feaster presented on her work as The Scholar Mom advising parents and their high-school children how to put themselves in the position as high school seniors to be offered major scholarships to colleges.

Christopher Dennis, Wali Molina and Michelle Mattison explained the community work of Community Dream Builders supporting the Lakewood neighborhood and promoting wellness programs for all.

Finally, the Forum opened the floor to those who wanted to address issues raised last week by police shootings of African-American males in Minnesota and Louisiana, and the Dallas shootings of five police officers. Thomas Moore led the body in a verse of “God Bless America” and there were a number of spoken comments.

All of it is on the video below. Viewer discretion is advised.

Christopher Dennis led a team from Community Dream Builders in a discussion about a Charlotte Wellness Expo on July 28 and the AvidXchange Music Factory 5K Rock ‘N Run on Saturday, Aug. 13. Their handouts are here. They also showed the following video:

Bernice Feaster used the following video from her website during her presentation:

 The last word for this session will go to Frances Hall, with her comments about the longterm trauma of dealing with violent death of loved ones.