Black History Corner

VIRGO August 23 - September 22

- by Adelaide Abdur-Rahman

VIRGO The Perfectionist Dominant in relationships. Conservative. He always wants the last word. Argumentative. Worries. Very smart. Dislikes noise and chaos. Eager. Hardworking. Loyal. Beautiful. Easy to talk to. Hard to please. Harsh. Practical and very fussy. Often shy. Pessimistic.

The Sapphire is the stone for the month of September

An ancient Persian legend states that the earth rests on a large sapphire and the blue of the sky comes from the gem's reflection. Medieval priests and monks wore sapphire believing they would prevent evil impulses and thoughts. It was once thought that, if a poisonous snake were put into a container with a sapphire, the rays from the gem would kill it. Sapphire was believed to turn evil sorcery and negative spells back against the sender and provide advance warning of hidden dangers. Ancient writers claimed the Ten Commandments were written on sapphire, making this gem most sacred. Sapphire has long symbolized truth sincerity and faithfulness. If its luster dulled when worn by a spouse, it was believed that person had been unfaithful.

September 12

You are methodical, thorough, faithful, and diligent in your work. You are generally quiet and reserved, and possess a subtle and amusing sense of humor. When aroused, your temper is intense but short-lived. You make your home pleasant and attractive and are demonstrative in your love.

1735 Prince Hall, a formerly enslaved person, writer, and founder of Black Free Masonry in the United States, was born in Barbados.

1840 Mary Jane Patterson, the first African American woman to receive a B.A. degree, was born in Raleigh, NC.

1883 Gus Cannon, a blues musician, was born in Red Banks, MS.

1893 S.R. Scottron was awarded patent 505,008 for a supporting bracket.

1913 (James Cleveland) Jesse Owens, the winner of four gold medals in the 1936 Olympic Games, was born in Oakville, Al.