October 2012
COGNITION MAGAZINE
K
ALI RED:
A Socialite for a Better Society
Schizophrenia
Q. Bleu Photography & The Girl Behind the Lens
What Blacks Should Know
N E W O ICK L L HA SS TR . E IDE‌ N T FI INS P PEE
CONTRIBUTING
Writers Darrin L. Harris Deanna Theriot Dr. Ada C. Roberson Shawniece “QB� McMillan Lyiena McMillain Gentelle Pedescleaux
For Advertising Information contact
Founder/CHIEF EDITOR Malcolm M. Armstrong Jr. Cognition Magazine, LLC is a thought provoking digital magazine dedicated to the new age mind, body, and soul of black America with emphasis on wellness and psychological well being. Cognition Magazine touches on subjects that we all can relate to such as Love & Relationships, Health & Fitness, Entertainment, and Travel & Leisure. The goal of this magazine is to highlight the significant thoughts and mental strategies used in all of our daily activities and life events. Cognition Magazine is intended to be a publication that exposes our thoughts and innermost feelings on various topics that appeal to the African American community. Cognition Magazine is distributed monthly and is
available in digital format.
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Cognition Magazine, LLC Phone: (504) 208-0704 Email: advertising@cognitionmagazine.com
Website: www.cognitionmagazine.com
Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited, Cognition Magazine is a product of Cognition Magazine, LLC . The information within this publication is believed to be accurate but Cognition Magazine does not guarantee accuracy. Cognition Magazine, LLC will not be held responsible for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication.
CONTENTS
4 Editors Note 6 Entertainment & Fashion 10 “Be for Real”
12 Ask Dr. Ada 18 Health & Fitness 22 What blacks should know: Schizophrenia 29 Love & Relationships
Thoughts after Dark w/ QB
Cover Story
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KaLi Red and her way of putting an end to violence
Featured Article 14 Quinn Gordon of Q. Bleu Photography takes us behind her lens
31 Be Inspired: “WHY”
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R
From the Editor
eaders it is officially Fall, my favorite time of the year. Fall is more than the shedding of leaves, pumpkin spice latte’s and festivals, it’s a time of transition and preparation. The word Harvest doesn't just apply to farmers. We all are reaping what we sow during this time of the year so what have you sown? Have you given your all and expecting a bountiful harvest or are you preparing to do things better for next harvest season. Cognition Magazine is now officially apart of the New Orleans community since our debut in April 2012 but we are now recently seeing the fruits of our labor and loving it! Looking back on past issues and the rapid growth, I've noticed that we put in WORK, so we are indeed expecting a great return from our readers and community members. For Cognition Magazine, LLC our expected harvest is healing and health. If you don't do anything else this season, be healthy and seek healing...is that too much for us to ask? The month of October is also a month of much awareness and consciousness of ills that deteriorate our society such as Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence. If you have been affected by any of these issues it is important that you take a stand and let your story be heard. Your very own testimony can motivate someone that was in your position to push forward. Let your harvest be one of inspiration to those that were once in your shoes. I humbly ask that you enjoy this issue and pass on to as many people as possible because knowledge, health and healing is no good if its not shared. Think Mind, Think Body...Think YOU!
ng Jr.
mstro o l m Ar
Yours in #WELLNESS, Malcolm M. Armstrong Jr. Founder & Chief Editor marmstrong@cognitionmagazine.com Follow us on twitter: @cognition_mag Facebook.com/cognitionmagazinellc
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Malc
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Are C– Breezy & Ri Ri back on??? Army Wives Get Naked…
Entertainment & Fashion
D S T P for
Does this mean their club hookup wasn't just a one-off fluke? Notorious ex-couple Chris Brown and Rihanna were reportedly spotted together at a Jay-Zshow in Brooklyn Wednesday, where the two seemingly got cozy with each other.
A group of military wives are baring their bodies (discreetly) to help support their patriotic spouses through the “Battling Bare” campaign. The women grew tired of “staying silent” about the issue of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and created a media campaign to educate Americans about the affects PTSD has on the entire family, The Blaze reports. The military wives PTSD awareness campaign is a private organization in the process of securing nonprofit status. The primary goal of the project is to empower “silent supporters” to “battle back” and provide resources to help returning veterans heal.
Read more at: http://www.inquisitr.com/263599/army-wives-get -naked-for-a-good-cause-battling-bare-ptsd-awareness-campaignvideo/#mPKPWiLq0IVxY85S.99
The concert coupling comes just a day after the tempestuous duo were caught making out at a Manhattan nightclub, amid rampant reports that the 24-year-old Barbadian songbird might be giving Brown, 23, another chance. On late Wednesday night, Rap Radar editor Elliott Wilson tweeted a photo of the duo sitting next to each other at the VIP area of Barclays Center in Brooklyn, where Jay-Z performed.
J. Cole and Diggy Beef Continues (Tyrese Adds His 2 Cents) This has to be the funniest rap BEEF ever! Diggy drops a track to respond to J. Cole's BET's Music Matters freestyle where he rapped, The game needs balance, woke up this morning to the rumors of ni**as wildin’. Picture me hating on a young ni**a with talent, album flopped but it’s cool he caked up on his allowance .”
Actor/Singer
There, Breezy could be seen putting his arm around the back of Ri-Ri's seat as they reportedly sat behind Beyoncé and Rita Ora.
that Diggy is the lil homie and J. Cole needs to be stopped. LOL!
Lyiena or La from A Dose of LA gives you the news with a twist for Cogntion Mag. Not only does she bring you the news to keep you informed, but she writes pieces to inspire and uplift her readers. She's a Writer, Rapper, Blogger, Public Speaker and a Socialite. You can catch her at a hip hop show, promoting events, updating blogs, volunteering in her church and evangelizing in the community. Follow her on Twitter @lanino_brown Intel courtesy of : adoseofla.blogspot.com
Earlier in the evening, the duo were also snapped making separate exits from Manhattan's Gansevoort Hotel in seemingly the same outfits they were wearing at the Jay-Z show, with Rihanna stepping out moments after Brown. Meanwhile, Brown's girlfriend, Karrueche Tran, posted a terse, cryptic tweet Wednesday night, simply writing: "Bye baby." (Courtesy of eonline.com)
Tyrese added his 2 cents via his Twitter.com page. He says
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HIS FALL 1) Tommy Hilfiger Plaid Top– Plaid is definently in
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this fall and this shirt will go great with a pair of chinos.
6 2) Cable Knit Turtleneck Sweater – White wool sweater by Balmain Ecru. 3) Sneakers – Denim Fashion sneakers by WeSC Men's.
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4) Classic Rucksack – Leather backpack by Will
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Leather Goods. 5) Driving Cap – Brown driving cap with earflaps by
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Johnston and Murphy. 6) Skull Muffler Scarf – 100% wool double sided knit muffler scarf with a skull print by Alexander McQueen.
(Courtesy of www.getwhitit.com) 1) French Connection Navy Toulouse Stripe 3/4
HER AUTUMN
Sleeve Top 2) ALMOST FAMOUS Womens Bootcut Jeans –
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Almost Famous bootcut jeans. Contrast stitching. Zip fly. Button waist. Five pocket styling with button flap closures and heavy stitching at back.
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3) H&M Boots – Knee-high riding boots in imitation leather with a decorative metal buckle and a zip at the
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side. 4) Proenza Schouler PS1 Extra Large Leather –
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Birch – Leather flap front bag with metal foldover closure, double leather straps, top handle and removable/adjustable shoulder strap.
3 5) Swell Triple Threat Earrings – Three cascading feathers Gold chain with gold bead accents.
7 (Courtesy of www.fashionistatrends.com)
6) Acne Large Wool Scarf – Large wool fringe scarf from Swedish label Acne known for its Scandinavian expression with a touch of Japanese minimalism.
***HAPPY WHO DAT SEASON *** FROM MISS BEHAVIN’ BOUTIQUE
VISIT US FOR YOUR “WHO DAT DIVA” APPAREL 8
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Be for Real
FALL LOVE...OR SOMETHING LIKE IT
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allows them to engage on a mature, intellectual level. Meeting up at a bar with a gang of people does not count as a date. Light conversation between orgasms does not count as a date. All that fun stuff your moms and pops used to do ell kids, it’s that before they got married like going to movies, shows and the time of year again. park? Those were dates. Also, that shit you do with your All the trees are shedding their green duds for golds, oranges and best friend WOULD be a date if you both were reds. There’s a light chill in the air romantically inclined toward one another but of course we know you’re not. (That one was somewhat judgmental, I and Starbucks is geeked up on admit, but, in my defense, I meant for it to come off that pumpkin spice. Yes sir—it’s officially Cuffing Season and boo way. Step into the light children.) One thing I’ve noticed about people these days is that actual dating has fallen by thangs all over are getting scooped up like so many fallen the wayside. I’m not chastising anyone because I am more leaves. After a fleeting yet competitive Choosing Season, than guilty of it too. All I’m saying is a date would help us cut buddies are transitioning from temp to hire with the better assess who we might be getting involved with so the threat of colder nights and +1 parties from now until January but what I want y’all to be for real about this month sudden and inconvenient realization of “This dude/chick is a damn fool” doesn’t have to slap us clean across the face in is whether you’ve cuffed as wisely as you chose. a public setting. I’d hate to see any of you embarrassed at Zulu Ball because you spent the whole summer bed-hopping with the fast, free Furthermore, if you decided to forego the dating process altogether, did you ever introduce the would-be cuff to your and unfamiliar only to be forced to make a cold snap friends? (I don’t mean your favorite bartenders either.) One decision in October that you lived to lament in February. Personally, I’ve never had to deal with that regret first-hand thing that may help the non-discerning gage the quality of because I don’t cuff ‘em. I catch ‘em, drain ‘em and release their chosen boo is the by observing the reactions of their them back into the unforgiving wild. This of course doesn’t closet and most valued homies. True we can’t allow our mean that I haven’t born witness to a slew of figurative yet friends to pick our significant others, but if they meet your potential mate and he/she is received with a chorus of painful social deaths brought on by (you guessed it) the “What the hells,” you may want to take a second look at poorly chosen cuff. Now, I’m not saying that maybe some of you don’t genuinely adore that hood rat who behaves in that thang. Just a thought… public as though she’s never experienced the wonders of indoor plumbing or that whoadie who’s mind is absolutely More important than your courtship “process”, when you blown by wine that’s corked in lieu of being accessed via a chose your cuff what were your motivations? Were you scorned in the last boo draft have been determined to have twist cap, but for those of you who feel like being for real, your comeuppance ever since? Have your most clutch of you KNOW you don’t wanna show up to your company Christmas party with THAT mutha fucka. I don’t care how patnahs acquired full-time bed mates to keep them busy ALL NIGHT LONG, leaving you to prowl the streets for good the lovin’ is. Not much will help you recover from some strange all by your lonesome? Have your siblings being the laughing stock of the Accounting Department. (And if THOSE cats can laugh at you, you know you down been telling your folks all about “The One” who the family is finally going to meet this Christmas and you simply BAD, baby.) Naturally being the non-judgmental person refuse to be run through a gauntlet of degrading and invathat I am, I won’t sit here and pretend to know all of your individual mating proclivities or romantic needs, but I will sive queries such as: “Where yours at?” “How come you never bring anybody home?” “Are you gay or just too help you ask yourself the right questions about who you fucked up in the head to keep some damn body?” I’ve been cuffed and why. through all the same scenarios but none of them are good reasons to make a hasty decision in a moment of First of all—how did you spend your Choosing Season? Were you outchea in these streets head first while taking no desperation that could easily last you a lifetime. (Y’all inventory of whose DNA you engaged or did you make eye know unplanned pregnancies are a mainstay of Cuffing Season, right? Yeah… right.) Your cuff shouldn’t be picked contact with a couple people long enough to assess their character? Did you perhaps try going on an actual vertical, based on some yearning to be in step with your peers or to live up to the stringent expectations of your family fully-clothed, honest-to-God DATE with ANY of these members. The easiest way to find yourself in a bad situation people? Ah yes—a date. Some of you may not remember that you can’t find your way out of in one sound piece is to what that is but a date is when two people who kinda dig go in the situations with your own true desires on the each other decide to get to know each other by having backburner. So don’t be pressed if you look up and it apconversation in the midst of a joint activity (not sex) that pears that everybody you know is cuffed this year. If your 10
Most importantly, if you happen to be one of the lost souls who have recently been run through the emotional ringer, I beseech you to not lean on the next most willing participant as a crutch to get you through this, your Cuffing Season of discontent. Loneliness can and will find you even within the confines of a committed relationship, shug so it would most certainly NOT behoove you to settle just because you’re using the oldest and most ineffective trick in the book to soothe an aching heart. I know you’ve probably heard this before, but let me reiterate that time spent alone doesn’t have to be filled with woe and lament. Whether we be serial monogamists or have just experienced a flash in the pan heartbreak, time with oneself can be truly rewarding. There’s no better way to figure out exactly what it is that you need out of this life than to learn it from YOURSELF. They say life is the best teacher but as sometimes co-dependent creatures, we want someone else to do the learning work for us. More oft than not that surrogate takes the form of a significant love interest. When Cuffing Season rolls around, it’s difficult to resist the allure of companionship even with a broken,
battered sense of self and a fucked up perception of love but please keep that ish to yourself. Nobody deserves the lack of trust, sincerity, attention that you’re able to provide in this delicate state and you don’t deserve to torture yourself by making the hollow attempt. Sometimes, we’re just not ready for what we want and in the lean times we must prepare for the harvest even when the yield doesn’t bode abundance. If there be any lovesick sports fans out there you should know that an offseason is every bit as important to an athlete as playing the game itself. The offseason is primetime for conditioning and strategy. If you can manage to stay fit in the offseason, you may be in just the right shape to take home that ring when it’s all said and done. So if this Cuffing Season you find yourself seemingly out in the cold, don’t even trip off that, shug. You’ll just have more time to get this whole self-identity ish right and put yourself in the best position to cuff the right one. And if you really don’t care to heed these many suggestions I’ve made and simply MUST have a warm body to bring to that Halloween/Thanksgiving/ Christmas/Mardi Gras/Valentine’s Day event, I’m sure you have a solid regular that you can call upon in the lean times (who’s more than willing to settle for being a mere ornament). Cut buddy = Cuffing Season Late Draft Pick. Ain’t no shame in it, love… warranted that you can at the very least be for real.
IMAGINE YOUR BUSINEESS HERE ADVERTISE WITH US! GREAT RATES & GREAT CIRCULATION Contact: advertising@cognitionmagazine.com
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Be for Real
friends didn’t read this column they may find themselves lonely once again come Choosing Season 2013 and y’all will be back at it like you kids were never apart. And who cares if the little bro/cousin/successful overachieving sister caught ‘em one? Moms, Pops and G-Moms will have to do their very best to go on living WITHOUT all the melodrama circulating around your relationship status. They’ll get over that dumb shit. I promise. If they find themselves unable to chill on the subject of your love life, bring the hood rat/whoadie to dinner at the house and see if they ever bother you about getting married again. CASE CLOSED.
Ask Dr. Ada
Dr Ada, How do I deal with others that annoy the crap out of me in workplace? -The annoyed worker
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on’t surrender your power to others! Too often, we allow the actions of others to dictate our moods, our actions, our feelings. This is especially true when dealing with people with whom we may not see eye to eye. You already know before you get into the office, that you work with someone that is annoying right? Well, why would you allow yourself to be negatively affected by someone who is behaving just as they are expected to behave? “If you choose to walk in love and happiness, Let me explain…envision that you go sit by a pool one hot discontent and annoyance can’t touch you” summer day, someone dives in the pool, and splashes water on you. Do you choose to get upset and begin yelling at the person for jumping in the pool because you got wet, or do you smile to yourself and say “Well, I guess I should have expected that, I am sitting my butt right by the pool.” The first scenario will leave you aggravated and unhappy, while the second scenario would likely leave you feeling just as good if not better than you felt when you sat by the pool because now, at least you’re cooled off a bit by that water. The only thing that has changed is the way you choose to view the situation. If you choose to walk in love and happiness, discontent and annoyance can’t touch you. Try it! Dr. Ada, Why the hell does it take so long for someone to come out of a parking spot when they know darn well you are waiting for it. This always baffles me and I think it's ridiculous!
- Mario
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ave you ever heard the saying “patience is a virtue”? The ability to wait for something without getting angry or upset is a valuable quality in a person. While we can’t change everything that happens around us, we can choose how we react to what happens around us. I would suggest that you work on your patience, give yourself adequate time to be someplace so that you aren’t anxious when it takes a few minutes longer than you expected to find a parking space, and focus on the things that you can change, while accepting the things that you can’t. Hope this helps :) 12
Dr. Ada, Is it better to live together before you commit to marriage? -Regina
Ask Dr. Ada
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he short answer to your question is no, however, before you begin jumping to conclusions, let me explain. Anyone who tells you that you should live with your significant other before you commit to marriage is just as wrong as the person that tells you that you should not live together before marriage. Confused yet? Well…the reality of the situation is that the decision to live with your mate should be made by two people, you and your mate. There are lots of reasons that people choose to live together before marriage, including financial, convenience, necessity, etc. The more important thing to consider is whether or not you’re truly ready to share your life with someone. There is no relationship that is perfect, this includes the marital relationship. If you are prepared to give more of yourself than you sometimes receive, to take the high road even when you feel that you are wronged, to commit to putting your wants behind those of your mate, and living with someone that you may not like all of the time but are dedicated to always respecting, then you may be ready to take the leap into the marriage pond. Relationships are just like we are, living breathing things that grow and evolve. You cannot avoid the ups and downs of a marriage by taking a test run at living together first. But, there’s no reason not to live together if you and your significant other feel that it is the right thing for you.
Dr. Ada Craig Roberson is a dedicated wife, mother and advocate for those in need. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker within the state of Louisiana and holds a Doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology. Ada has a wealth of experience in working with disadvantaged individuals and has taken the term “Life Enhancement” into a whole new meaning within the social services industry. Her ability to truly understand human behavior has allowed her to transform the lives of many individuals, some of which were hopeless in the eyes of society. She loves a good piece of fine chocolate, a good challenge and stimulating activities. If you have an issue you would like to bring to Dr. Ada’s attention please email askdrada@cognitionmagazine.com or make a post on the Ask Dr. Ada page on www.cognitionmagazine.com
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Behind the Lens …. Quinn Gordon of Q. Bleu Photography Interview by: Malcolm Armstrong Jr. Images courtesy of Q. Bleu Photography
CM: Tell us about the photographer
putting them in albums. After the storm,
restricted and I felt myself going in
Quinn Gordon.
we were the few lucky ones that didn’t
another direction. I wanted to try
QG: If I had to sum myself up in a matter
lose photos. It was then that I realized the
different things but I couldn’t. I left in
of words, I am an artist chasing my
importance of memory, how it’s captured August 2008, and in that same year, I
dreams. I was born in Landstuhl, Germany and preserved. Hurricane Katrina was
bought my first SLR Camera (Canon
but I’ve lived in major cities across the U.
devastating on many different levels: an
Rebel XSi). I started practicing on family
S. (Denver, L.A., and New Orleans to
entire way of life disappeared in a matter
and friends. It was then that the doors to
name a few). I currently reside in San
of hours. You can relocate and start over
photography began to flood it’s way into
Antonio. I’m a complex individual but I
anywhere, but losing pictures - that is
my life. Photography by itself is an art
choose to live a very simple lifestyle. I
something that can never be replaced.
that can never be perfected. It continues
spend my days listening to different types
When I came back to New Orleans in
to grow as technology advances. There are
of music, practicing yoga, meditating,
2006, I applied for a position at Sears. The several different aspects of photography,
reading, writing and my favorite pastime,
Sears Portrait Studio called me instead. I
and over the years as I taught myself new
taking pictures.
was given formal training and I developed
things, I felt that this was what I was
an interest in photography then. Sears is
meant to do. When I’m shooting,
limited in it’s creative capability because
everything around me stops and I’m
of the corporate aspect. It’s kind of like
completely drawn into the moment of
going to a Red Lobster where no matter
the image that I’m capturing. I love
what Red Lobster you go to, the biscuits
photography, I can’t see myself not doing
are going to taste the same. It was very
it.
CM: How and when did you discover that photography is your passion? CG: I’ve always been the keeper of photos in my home, arranging them by date and
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CM: Tell us about how you formed Q.
doubt and bad decisions
Bleu Photography, I’m sure it wasn’t
played a major role in the
easy?
evolution of QBP, but over
QG: Q. Bleu Photography has been in
time, I learned from my
the works for the past 6 years. I can
mistakes and became
compare it to metamorphosis. QBP is a
confident in my abilities as
result of several different stages of
a photographer and a
personal as well as professional growth in business woman. The the realization of my passion. I went
process wasn’t easy by any
from starting in a studio that wouldn’t
means, but it was worth
allow me creative freedom, realizing my
every moment. The name
potential, practicing on family and
Q. Bleu Photography came
friends, leaving my corporate job to start from personal aspects of my a photography company with a friend
life. My favorite color is blue, and bleu is In early 2013, I will be offering more
(which was freeing and terrifying at the
the French spelling of blue. I chose to
same time). When the business we
use the French spelling of blue because it the meantime, I specialize in Weddings,
formed didn’t work out, that was the
runs deep within my family in New
Commercial and Lifestyle Photography.
biggest test of all. So many thoughts and Orleans. When I started thinking of
For my Wedding Clients, I offer unique
questions ran through my mind before
different photography names, this one
wedding packages with various products,
the dissolution of the business: Had I
stuck because of the simplicity and the
including password protected on-line
learned enough to do it on my own?
rhyming. When I narrowed the list
galleries, Save the Date/Thank You Cards
Was I going to fail? What would I do
down, out of the 5 names I came up
or Magnets, Engagement, Bridal and/or
next if this didn’t work out? My answer
with, my family and friends helped me
Trash the Dress Photo sessions, Custom
to all of these questions ended with the
decide ultimately.
Albums, Canvas Prints and various print
same answer: I love what I do, and I will do anything to make it work. I took a leap of faith knowing I could do it, and I did. If I had to be 100% honest, self-
services and stock photos under QBP. In
products. For my Commercial Clients, I CM: It seems that your brand has expanded, why do you think this is (in your opinion)? QG: I often joke that a camera just needs to be a permanent part of my body. The reason that my brand is expanding is because I take pictures of literally everything. I get different ideas every time I try something new and I am constantly thinking of doing different things with the pictures I take. I’ve recently had to change the
offer Stock Photos of their products, Websites, Business Cards, Flyers, Logos, Marketing Management, Head Shots and anything else they may need for the expansion of their business. Lifestyle Photography is a little bit of everything outside of Wedding and Commercial Photography: Portraits (Family, Maternity, Graduation, Birth/Newborn, Milestones, etc), Special Events (Birthday Parties, Showers, Meetings, Concerts, etc). I also offer Announcements, Invitations and Holiday Cards, Print Products, Custom Albums and on-line galleries for these special occasions.
direction I was going in with my company because what I CM: What makes Q. Bleu photography offer is so broad and is
different from other photography
constantly changing.
companies?
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QG: I had an idea this question was going to come up lol. I
humble and incredibly talented, and when you get to really
am a one stop shop for all of your photographic needs, and
know him, he’s really funny and overall just a good guy.
then some. I don’t limit myself to just family portraits in the park. I work with several different people: business owners, models, artists and musicians to name a few. I provide everyone I work with an incentive to get their name out there. I center photoshoots around personalities and products, and then I brand and market them by giving them
CM: What is the most common response when a client views their images for the first time? QG: This varies, I’ve gotten huge shout outs on twitter, appreciative text messages and e-mails; I’ve even received a phone call where a client of mine was crying. That last one
custom photoworks that identifies each unique individual or blew me away and I had a sense of appreciation that I could product. Everything I come up with is typically one of a kind make someone cry tears of joy. that adds to the uniqueness of the project. What also makes me stand out is that I am a destination photographer, meaning I don’t limit myself to just working within my area. Wherever you need me to be, I will come to you.
CM: What is the most difficult aspect of being a young entrepreneur? QG: I think the most difficult aspect of being a young entrepreneur is probably getting your name out there.
CM: What is/are your favorite subjects to photograph (children, weddings, birthdays..etc)? QG: I personally enjoy shooting weddings and events. I like to consider what I do to be eye catching in a sense that it makes you feel with your being by what you’re looking at. There’s something about photos that make you feel the
Marketing is quite expensive and in my opinion, cost more than actually running my business. Social outlets such as twitter and Facebook help a lot as a free platform of marketing, but in order to get your name out there, you have to do a lot of footwork to spread the word when networking.
emotion within the image every time you relive the experience. Life isn’t black and white or something that fits into a box. Life is full of vibrant colors and energies and emotions. I view my photography as painting life with a camera and telling someone's story through my eyes.
CM: How can we find out more about your work and get booking information? QB: Visit my website qbleuphoto.com to view samples of my work or booking information Follow me on twitter/ Instagram/Pintrest @qbleuphoto Become a fan of my FB
CM: What is your most memorable photo shoot? QG: I shot a surprise birthday party last December, and
Fanpage facebook.com/qbleuphoto You can purchase Custom Photoworks society6/qbleuphoto
Marlon Jackson happened to be one of the guests in attendance. Needless to say, I was starstruck. I got something better than an autograph, I got to take pictures of Marlon Jackson.
CM: Do you have any “high profile” clients? If so, describe working with them? QG: I’ve had the pleasure of working with Rantz Davis over the past year and a half. It started out doing behind the scenes for his video shoots to shooting his concerts and more recently, actually directing his photoshoots. We recently went to Miami and had a blast. My experience with working with Rantz has always been a fun. He is extremely
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S S E
l a F
N T I e F tell l B
en G y
F
all is typically the season where the weight gain begins. You have Halloween where you get all the candy & sweets and then Thanksgiving where you have almost everything there is to eat. Cognition Magazine and P.E.D.S. NOLA is going to help you tackle the weight gain one holiday at a time starting with Halloween. Grab those trick or treat pumpkins from the kids and try these exercises with us.
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3. SQUAT
Place legs shoulder length apart with frozen pumpkins weights in hands as shown and squat.
Health & Fitness
1. FILL
Fill plastic pumpkin up with water past its eyes but an inch below the top. If there is a hole at the bottom of the pumpkin, tape the hole over from the inside using packaging tape.
2. FREEZE Place the water filled pumpkin in the freezer overnight to ensure a solid freeze.
4. LIFT
Lift the pumpkin weights to shoulder length and feel the tension in forearms. To increase calve muscles, arch feet as shown above.
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5. HIGHER LIFT
Lift the pumpkin weights higher so that they are level with your ear or higher if possible to increase muscle in arms. Repeat exercise.
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Schizophrenia chizophrenia is a mental illness that can be said to be one of the most dramatic and misunderstood. Individuals suffering from this disorder often have trouble conducting activities of daily living due to its disturbing symptoms. Currently there is no cure for Schizophrenia but medical developments are being made to minimize the symptoms and to help these individuals live normal lives. (Information courtesy of www.theroot.com, www.nyaprs.org, and www.health.am)
Symptoms
Other Facts Relevant to African Americans
Auditory hallucinations or hearing things that other people do not such as “Hearing Voices.”
Visual hallucinations or seeing things that other people do not.
African Americans (especially males) are more likely to receive a diagnosis of schizophrenia.
African Americans experience hallucinations at a greater rate than Caucasians.
African Americans commonly experience higher rates of misdiagnosis of Schizophrenia due to cultural factors.
Schizophrenia is the most misinterpreted and misunderstood mental illness for blacks.
Schizophrenia is strictly biological. There are no correlations to ethnicity or gender.
In the 1960’s Schizophrenia played a major part within the civil rights movement. Civil Rights activists were described as having “Protest Psychosis.”
Studies have proven that African Americans are more supportive of family members suffering from Schizophrenia than Caucasian families.
Delusions occur where the individual is not logical and believing things that may be unrealistic or bizarre.
Disorganized thoughts exist where the individual cannot organize their thoughts or ideas.
Agitated body movements such as Catatonia where the individual does not move or respond to others.
Flat affect or lacking expression Loss of interest in pleasurable activities Difficulty understanding and using information Poor personal hygiene Have trouble paying attention
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f you or anyone you know has been exposed to any of the above events, its crucial that treatment should be sought as soon as possible so that healing can begin. African Americans are known for resisting psychiatric treatment but we must realize that our bodies not only need medical care but mental care as well. Treatment is 100% confidential and you will find that talking to someone unbiased can be comforting. Look at it as having someone designated just for you to place your discomforts on without judgment. Being strong alone can only carry us so far, Its about time we let someone help us carry the load. We’ve been a strong people for the longest and it has won us a lot of progress but it is also exhausting. Self care is so important and we need to give our minds a break. Don’t be afraid to reach out when things get too tough mentally. Seeking help can only benefit you in the long run.
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Health & Fitness
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What Blacks Should Know
In the Red Zone with ‌.
KaLi Red
Philanthropist, Young Entrepreneur, and Community Activiist are a few words that describes this New Orleans native and her plans to reduce violence in Louisiana. Cognition Magazine takes a closer look into this womans life to highlight her efforts and initiatives. Dont let the beauty fool you, this woman is really on the move and about business. Join us as we enter the Red zone. Interview by: Malcolm Armstrong Jr 23 Images by: Cognition Magazine, LLC & The Kali Red Experience, LLC
deal of patience and faith, to keep a leveled mind CM: Give us a brief description of who KaLi’ Red is. KR: I am an intelligent, strong, smart, loving, supporting, a diva frame to stay encouraged. that is full of ambition, and I am the first official socialite of New Orleans. CM: How do you support social issues while being a CM: What is the KaLi’ Red Experience LLC? socialite? KR: The “Kali’ Red Experience, LLC” is what I like to call my KR: The way that I “Red Empire.” One night I had a dream about creating my own organization…due to a personal experience in my life a few years support social issues while ago, not only did I have to deal with a few organizations for being a socialite is survival reasons, but I also saw several loopholes in processes whenever I am being made and a few other negative glitches. I have also had the opportunity aware of a particular issue, to work with many major organizations as well, and I was able to I always listen to the experience the behind the scenes activities on how they are ran. details with an open mind So with me having a deep passion for Leadership and of course while taking in all the my ultimate FAVORITE field of all, Marketing…I decided that I would create my own organization/company that will be ran the specific details and way that I want it to be. I would make sure that it will always viewpoints. Nevertheless, STAND OUT vividly from the others. After doing some because I am aware that brainstorming, I realized that it would be a great idea for me to some social issues may attach my “Socialite” image to my organization and use the revolve around conflicting viewpoints and tensions, I always try “Kali’ Red Experience” as the open umbrella to be the main to remain neutral until I am able to see all aspects clearly. cover of my foundation and any other entities that I will add in the future. CM: We understand that anti-violence and anti-domestic CM: What were some of the difficulties you experienced violence is your platform. Have you been personally affected by any of these issues? while establishing the KaLi’ Red Brand? KR: Some of the difficulties that I have been experiencing and KR: Yes, I have been personally affected by domestic violence. I still experience to this day while establishing my “Kali’ Red” was a victim and a survivor of domestic violence. I experienced brand is having people not take me seriously. First I guess it is the entire journey. I was a resident of a battered women’s shelter because of the “RED HAIR”, and second is because I am doing in Texas for two and a half months, (but homeless for a total of something totally different than how some people are accustomed five months while trying to finish my second tenure of college). I to seeing them be done…due to me marketing my image in a unique diverse way, which some may find strange. However, the can honestly say that it was the worst time of my life. It was very fact of the matter is that they are missing out on a great person hard to deal with on every level, especially by being in another that can be an asset to them by pre-judging someone’s outer state with no family around to lean on for support. characteristics. That (prejudging) is something that has been going on forever CM: Apart from your anti-violence platform, are there any that needs to stop. We are other social issues that you are passionate about? all individuals, we all have KR: Yes, the other social issues that I am very passionate about our own uniqueness of are Poverty, homelessness, equality, and discrimination. I hold character and image traits, two of the mentioned issues close to heart because I have we are who we are, and we are all FREE to be personally experienced and made it through both issues before. If whatever we want to be in I can make a difference in with any of those issues, it is like food life. Another main for my soul. difficulty that I am experiencing is that, by me doing things all on my own CM: What are some of the latest projects that your organiza…handling the business tion is working on now? and trying to secure the KR: Some of the latest projects that my organization is working funds out of my own on with other organizations are planning a huge International pockets to get important Humanitarian Law event for undergrad college students in the things taken care of…it City and planning to launch a Measles Initiative with the Ameritakes a lot LONGER to get can Red Cross (I am an International Services Committee things done. It takes a great Member with the Southeast Louisiana chapter of Red Cross). I 24
am attending the “Community Leadership Institute” University without Walls with TCA (Total Community Action, Inc.) to strengthen my leadership skills to become a GrassrootsCollaborative leader in the City. I Just recently joined Evacuteer.Org where I attended my first training session at City Hall. I will soon be assisting in the planning of a “Domestic Violence Awareness Day” with TCA staff members, I have also hosted another “STV” (Stomp the Violence – Stop the Violence) movement event, and of course I am working on my never-ending project of strategically planning the launch of my “Kali’ Red’s Initiative: Take Your Life Back Foundation” for battered women. I sat on the official CrimesStoppers- Q93FM First NBC Bank "Teen Peace Summit 2012" planning Committee. I have just been accepted into the "Public Leaders Fellowship" a program of Puentes New Orleans, Neighborhoods Partnership Network, and Committee for a Better New Orleans.
CM: Is the lovely KaLi’ Red on the market for eligible bachelors? KR: LoL!!! Well, I do not really like to use the term “on the market”…although I am SINGLE. Right now, I am not ready for a committed relationship, because there are still some things that I want to do, things that I want to improve on my inner self, and also because I don’t have the extra time to cater to a relationship at the moment. However, once I get my organization’s foundation and myself, fully together, I will be READY to take on some eligible bachelors! But as of now, I am single and I just mingle.
CM: What is your best piece of advice you can offer to empower individuals whom are currently struggling with some of the issues that you have overcome? KR: The best piece of advice that I can offer is...put GOD CM: What was the most memorable experience that the FIRST in everything, DO NOT give up, and KEEP your head KaLi’ Red Experience, LLC has ever….well….experienced? held high through it all. KR: My most memorable “Kali’ Red Experience” that I have had so far is seeing President Barack Obama in the flesh and CM: What do you use to motivate yourself to empower hearing him speak while being in the same building!!! It was AWESOME and very MOVING at the same time… it will be an others? (books, videos, church etc.) KR: I actually use self-motivation. I am a firm believer in never experience that I will NEVER forget! going backwards. I use my past to motivate myself, because CM: What was your life like prior to establishing your company? KR: My life prior to establishing “K.R.E” was actually dull, I was very unhappy, and I was on a constant emotional rollercoaster. I had no life. I mostly made attending two colleges back to back my pastime and a way to keep my dignity and pride going. I was not free to be myself…to give a more brief detailed description…six years before “The Kali’ Red Experience, LLC”; I was LOST in a town that did not really know how to fully accept me. Post hurricane Katrina, I was alive but I had no life and I was not living to my full potential. CM: We are not afraid to speak on how beautiful you are and we are sure that men go crazy when they see you in business mode. Does your outstanding beauty image ever conflict with your business? KR: First, I would like to say “Thank You” to that comment. And to answer your question…Yes, my image of being a beautiful, full figured woman with curves…does conflict with my business a whole lot. It is a shame, but it does. Nevertheless, I am use to it now, and I have learned how to handle it a lot better. However, I would have to say, that RESPECT from both males and females with huge egos was the hardest conflict so far. But once they see and hear for themselves that I am TOTALLY ABOUT BUSINESS, and at the end of the day… whatever business we came together to handle, WILL GET DONE. Time is precious, I value it, and it is not to be wasted on nonsense. Therefore, after they experience my mindset, they will get to see that a woman can be SMART, SEXY, CLASSY, JAZZY, and VIBRANT all at the same time while handling her business.
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only I know what I have been through, and where it is that I want to go in the future. CM: If you had one wish for the city of New Orleans what would it be? KR: That our City can be a safer a place to raise our children.
book pages at https://www.facebook.com/ kalired504DiVa and https://www.facebook.com/pages/ The-KaLi-Red-Experience-LLC/209985905730288. For all booking/hosting requests and inquiries send an email to KaliRed504@gmail.com, follow me on Instagram at KaLi_ReD_504Diva, follow me on Twitter @KaLiReD504Diva and now you can also connect with me on the Linked-In network.
CM: What is your ultimate guilty pleasure? KR: My ultimate guilty pleasure is indulging in to fresh fruit and cream “Tullie Basket” pastries that are only made at the Whole Foods market, and I love eating LOTS of pasta too. CM: So apart from red, what other colors do you like (if any)? KR: Actually, my ultimate favorite color is BLUE (all shades). I just use red as my symbolic color for my organization. CM: What is/are your goal(s) for yourself and the KaLi Red Experience, LLC for 2013? KR: My goals for Kali’ Red Experience LLC, and myself are: to become an emerging leader in the City, start gathering needed information to write my very first grant (on my own) for my “Kali’ Red’s Initiative” foundation for battered women, and to have a fully detailed outline of my foundation’s launch to the City.
CM: How can our readers find out more information about the KaLi Red Experience, LLC? KR: To find out more information about the “Kali’ Red Experience, LLC”, you can subscribe to both of my face
IMAGINE YOUR BUSINEESS HERE ADVERTISE WITH US! GREAT RATES & GREAT CIRCULATION Contact: advertising@cognitionmagazine.com
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Our cover girl meets a new friend, “Titus� during photo shoot!
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lot of times people will have sex and say it was the best that they ever had but everyone has different measures for what makes sex the best. I wanted to know what is the consensus among the people that participate in QBAfterDark so I posed the question, "What makes sex better to you?" The key words in the statement are "to you," because I got a lot of different responses. Here are a few that I received:
When it comes to real life sex
questions, there are many things that some people wonder whether or not they are normal happenings during sex. I host a weekly sex discussion session on Twitter giving people the opportunity to answer some questions and submit questions they may have wanted to ask but didn’t want to seem weird. I’ve asked everything from “Is a bad kisser a turn off to you?” to “Ladies, do you swallow?” The responses to the questions can be off the wall! If you have any questions that you might want submitted, follow @QBAfterDark on twitter.com and submit your questions. The discussion sessions happen every Monday at 10pm sharp. #QBAfterDark
Love & Relationships
Thoughts after Dark ” B Q “ h t i W
@SwerveMusic: "Body Language" @JsTrueLies: "Random place, random tyme @ one spot, then round 2&3 at home" @Ablondebomb: "CHEMISTRY" @2Koolie: "actually having real feelings for a chick" and @jeanis100: "Passion,wetness,touching,oral,endurance, competition!!" I think the best answer came from @SheSeauxSaditty with simply saying, "Love."
The reason I say that is because I whole heartedly agree that sex is better when love is involved. When there's really love there, you'll experience intensity from the passion, emotions running wild, body heat, chemistry, competition, wetness, everything. It will all just flow together because of the love there. Love makes sex better to me as well. 29
dimage4u@yahoo.com
(985) 686-5109
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What is Your “WHY” When you understand and believe in your “why” you will be able to motivate and inspire others toward loyalty and action. Why is only the genesis and a starting point. In order for your “why” to become authentic you must prove it by what you do.
In fact, knowing your “why” is not only a way to gain success, but it is the only way to sustain a lasting success. In addition, everything you say and do should line up with what you believe in, something in which we refer to as authenticity. Authenticity cannot be realized or achieved without clarity of “why.”
The “why” is the belief, the “how's” are the actions we take to prove our “why” and the “what's” are the results of those actions. At the end of the day the only way people will know what you believe is by what you say and do. If you are inconsistent in word
The “why” provides a context for everything else. Having clarity of your “why” requires you to be disciplined and accountable to your own guiding principles, beliefs and values.
By: Darrin L. Harris
and deed, no one will know what you believe.
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Be Inspired
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ne of the greatest mistakes that an individual can make is to not understand their “why.” Having a clear sense of “why” brings meaning and purpose to what and how you do what you do.
e s i t r e v ! s Ad U
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Cognition Magazine, LLC Phone: (504) 208-0704 Email: advertising@cognitionmagazine.com
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