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By: Cheryl Smith
January 10, 2007
People have said a lot of things about comedian David Chapelle, especially after he decided to turn down a cable television deal estimated to be for at least $50 million. While some ridiculed him, others applauded his actions, as he took off for a trip to Africa, what was referred to as a rest and relaxation period.
Dr. Terry Flowers of St. Philip’s School and Community Center has nothing but kind words to say about Mr. Chapelle, who he considers to be extraordinary. “Dave Chapelle is a genius,” said Mr. Flowers during a recent interview. “He’s enlightening and humorous.”
Mr. Flowers went on to talk about how he has respect for Mr. Chapelle, because the comedian knows how to draw the line. Referring to attempts to control the direction of his show and comedic efforts, Mr. Flowers said he is proud when he sees people stand up for what is right. “He (Chapelle) drew the line when he wouldn’t make fun of Katrina victims,” explained Mr. Flowers. “He realizes that there are some situations that just are not humorous.”
Mr. Chapelle will bring his own brand of humor to Dallas later this month for a performance benefiting St. Philips and featuring Dallas’-own Erykah Badu. Praising Ms. Badu, Mr. Flowers talked about how despite her worldwide recognition, the award-winning songstress is committed to numerous causes and continues to have a strong presence in her home town.
“Her involvement in the community and with youth is exceptional,” he noted. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in “Sunny South Dallas,” St. Philip’s is more than just a school. Touting academic excellence, Christian principles and “compatible community services, Mr. Flowers said he is especially proud that so many of the graduates go on to high school and then to college.
“Ninety-seven percent go on to graduate high school, while 88 percent go on to college,” he said proudly. With such impressive numbers, it’s no wonder that parents are clamoring to get their children into the school.
Although the school serves children from Pre-K3 through sixth grade, a bond is established that has graduates coming back years later, keeping in touch with other alumni and former teachers. At a recent alumni chapel service Mr. Flowers said the graduates were invited back and they expect to be involved because during their St. Philip’s experience they are taught to come back and “give back.”
Mr. Chapelle’s performance will hopefully provide more resources to the school enabling it to continue with many projects as the school focuses on development inside and around the school with everything from entrepreneurial projects like KidKo’s (a copy center run by the students) and helping the students to excel educationally, athletically, spiritually and socially.
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