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Jacqueline “JACKIE” JOYNER-KERSEE

 

This American athlete’s name should ring a bell. She’s won three gold, one silver and two bronze Olympic medals in the course of four different Olympic Games. She’s ranked among the all-time greatest athletes in women heptathlon as well as the women’s long jump. Her name is Jackie Joyner-Kersee and she has since retired but joined the Board of Directors for USA Track & Field (USATF).

Born in East St. Louis she attended East St. Louis Senior High School and later starring in both track & field and women’s basketball while attending the University of California at Los Angeles. Throughout the years she has graced various sports pages, including Sports Illustrated and honored with countless awards.

In 1986 Jackie married her track coach Bob Kersee and two years later she founded the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation. It provides athletic lessons & resources to families giving more attention to her hometown of East St. Louis.

At the 2000 track & field competition Jackie took her final bow. In 2007 various athletes joined forces and founded the ‘Athletes for Hope’. Muhammad Ali, Alonzo Mourning, Lance Armstrong and Warrick Dunn are some athletes just to name a few.

 

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DID YOU KNOW? Jackie had severe Asthma but was one of several athletes to overcome it.

For Black History Month we like to Salute Jackie Joyner-Kersee for her contributions she has given us.

Photo: Urban Crush    

Arts Events Successful Journeys

Multi-Talented, One to Watch

My good friend Sharika Mahdi-Neville is really making moves. We’ve been friends for many years and I’ve interviewed her before but if you missed it, click here. She is so fun loving and a sweetheart that I had to update some ‘new’ accomplishments she now holds under her belt. Recently I was invited in her home and the weekend of my visit was an eventful one for her. She was working and taking part in the 2013 ESSENCE Festival all weekend long at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Sharika has always remained diligent in her work but when ESSENCE took notice to honor her with their very first annual Art Marketplace Award (along with a nice check) you know things just got real, lol. There were plenty of creative work showcased but even more meaningful when ESSENCE only honored four people, not only was she the youngest but the only female as well. It came in such a shock because she was totally unaware of the accolade.

Sharika posing for Urban Crush before being presented with her ESSENCE Award 

 

When I visited her home, I instantly fell in love with the creative colorful artistic loft where she resides. Sharika gave a tour of her studio where she creates her masterpieces, but this was just a portion of what she owns. Her studio had a NOLA jazz/musical vibe flowing all around. I couldn’t wait to see the rest of her work at the Convention Center.

I’ve learned that the building occupies many talented musicians, other visual artists and many others involved in the performing arts. There was a production in progress taking place while I was there (cameras, stage, huge screens etc.). The hallways were filled with so much art deco from many artists. It was a nice vibe and great inspiration for those in the field.


Sharika (lower right) All in a days work! (pic: UrbanCrush)

 

S/O to actress Satin Mitchell who stopped by to Congratulate Sharika on her award (pic: Urban Crush)

The much talked about movie ‘The Butler’ set to open in theaters August 16, 2013 is another experience she recently had. Being on the set with Oprah Winfrey, Terrance Howard and just an amazing cast would make anyone cherish the moment. We’ll keep an eye out to see if she makes the final cut. Click here for more info and to watch the movie trailer. And it was a pleasure meeting Satin Michell who recently worked on another filming project with Sharika that's in the works. We'll keep you posted as it develops.


Showing various angles of the Art Bangles and love the Art coin purse. CUTE! (pic: Urban Crush)

Before I go I just have to show this beautiful custom-made Art Bangle along with this cute colorful Giclee Art coin purse. There were many styles and colors to choose from. They will be coming soon but click here --> www.artbysharika.com for more of her work and items. Order one or several (as a gift) you’ll love it!

My hat’s off to you lady and Congratulations again. Thank you (and Carlos) for being such gracious hosts, love ya,lol. By the way, love this one too,lol.