Elucid Magazine Summer 2018 - Scandals

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/ Fashion / Attitude / N e w Yo r k

Elucid Magazine is New York, bringing our readers genuine beauty guide, inspiring fashion designers along with the complete attitude of New York City.

Welcome to the movement of Elucid Magazine - the different NY experience.

Contact: info@elucidmagazine.com Mail Elucid Magazine 51 west 8th street New York, NY, 10011 www.elucidmagazine.com

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FEATURED ARTICLES / The Streets of New York / Supporting Locally is Supporting Our Communities / Is the “Big Apple” a Big Deal?

Assumptions Surrounding NYC / Ayurveda Yoga and the Chakras / The Importance of Your Morning Routine / The Streets of New York: The People’s Runway / SPOTLIGHT : DESIGNERS & BOUTIQUES YOU SHOULD KNOW

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Our Sto

Photographer: Natasha Gerschon Stylist: Liese Victoria Model: Hannah Tribolet - LA Models Model: Kate Noel - No Ties Model Mgmt MUA: Selina Bautista Hairstylist: Stephanie Pierce Hairstylist: Nea Muller Designer: Oseas Villatoro T-Shirts: Killem With Chic

SUPPORTING LOCALLY IS SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY : Kelly Mills

We’ve all heard the slogan ‘Buy Locally and Go Green’. In translation, this memorable phrase simply means that it’s important for us to decrease our carbon footprint by supporting small businesses. For one thing, we want to encourage economic prosperity and social preservation in our communities. It’s necessary that the distinctive character of each business is reflective in the people that support one another and its architecture.

In a world that’s becoming increasingly homogenized, we continue to support corporations that promote the same sales signs alongside the same products. Whether we are conscious of it or not many institutions are increasingly dictating our personas by determining the way we dress, where we shop, and the food we eat. This makes it more imperative that our communities continue to reprocess themselves and provide us with the best tools for social networking.

Thus, we must remain optimistic by developing healthy forms of competition that will inevitably encourage lower prices and a more diverse market. Unlike corporations that do not consider the individual, smaller businesses always do and can develop personal experiences by understanding what their clientele desperately wants and needs. This form of customer obligation encourages more creativity, empathy, and diversity, and subsequently displays the values of the consumer and not those seated at a corporate board meeting.

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As a consequence, each dollar we spend locally recycles itself right back into the community.

Money well spent increases the wealth of its people and ensures their history and sociopolitical values. More than corporate arenas, local environments can ultimately retain a physical character that will encourage jobs and the natural conservation of society’s design.

It has been proven that world tourism connects people socially and bridges people together who in other circumstances would have never spoken or publically met. Thus, people from all over the world will flock to see history, people, architecture and their financial support is just another additive to the community.

We are the true leaders of our world and people’s personalities must be reflective in the places that they choose to live and work. Local support strengthens us and brings cohesion to our communities and social relationships. We all want to be less of an environmental hazard by creating a healthy society where people walk more and require a bicycle rather than a car for transport. We save time, energy, and money by supporting something small to enhance growth. So, overall we are the proprietors of change and by making conscious decisions we can influence the places we share, develop jobs, support and reuse. As a conscious person, our ‘Yes We Can’ attitudes will extend beyond a political slogan and back into our own cultural habits.

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“ONE HECK OF A FUN RIDE!

strictly limited engagement thru jan 28

Fantastic - A Winner!” - Broadway World

four women. forty years of friendship. one afternoon that could end it all.

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From the Soundtrack of Your Life

A high energy celebration of women featuring Top-40 songs like RESPECT, Stand by Your Man, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, These Boots are Made for Walkin’, I Will Survive, Greatest Love of All…

St Luke’s Theatre, 308 West 46th Street - Telecharge.com 212-239-6200 ELUCID MAGAZINE 14

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AYURVEDA, YOGA & THE CHAKRAS ARTICLE BY : PAAVANI Ayurveda

Today, the Vedic Sciences of yoga and Ayurveda as well as the chakra system are being taught in the West at an increasing rate. People are looking to alternate forms of healing to cultivate balance in an ever changing and stress inducing world. According to yoga and Ayurveda, proper management of prana or life force energy is essential in order to not experience burn out, overwhelm, fatigue, anger and/or depression. When prana is managed and maintained, individuals can then focus on their dharmic or spiritual goals. In this article, we will take a look at the basic principles of Ayurveda and how this system is connected to the chakras.

Ayurveda literally means the knowledge of life and originated in India as the traditional medical system over 5,000 years ago. It works both as a preventative & curative medicine.

According to Ayurveda, we create our state of health based upon how we interact with our environment. By making choices that support our inner nature we can live harmoniously and in balance.

Muladhara Chakra (Root Center)

Svadistana Chakra (Sexual Center)

Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Center)

The Muladhara Chakra is located at the base of the spine and it contains the quality of the earth element and kapha dosha. The Muladhara energy encourages stability, grounding and connection with community.

If you are filling disconnected with your loved ones or having difficulty staying focused, chant the bija mantra, “Lum” to increase the earth element and the pranic energy of Muladhara Chakra.

The Svadistana Chakra is just above the pubic bone and it houses the water element and aspects of kapha dosha. The Svadistana energy cultivates devotion to humanity, healthy sexual energy and unconditional love. If you are experiencing feelings of anger, resentment or feeling numb in your relationships, chant the bija mantra “Vum” to increase the water element and your loving devotion.

The Manipura Chakra is located just above the belly button, at the solar plexus, and the fire element as well as pitta dosha are predominant here. The Manipura energy cultivates logic, focus and the ability to pursue one’s dreams. If you are feeling a lack of motivation, dull and uninspired, chant the bija mantra “Rum” to increase the fire element and pitta dosha. vv moving with heart centered energy rather from the space of the ego. If you are having a difficult time taking the “I” or “me” out of your service to the world, chant the bija mantra “Yum” to re-center and balance.

There are 3 constitutions or doshas in Ayurveda: vata, pitta & kapha. These three doshas are comprised of the elements: ether, air, fire, water & earth. Vata is comprised of ether and air, pitta is made up of fire and a little bit of water and kapha is created from water and earth.

Everything that is alive has the 5 elements within it and all 3 doshas; however, every living being has a unique blend of the elements and thus the doshas.

The chakra system is responsible for storing prana or life force energy within the subtle body.

Chakra is translated as “wheel”. You can think of the chakras as circular wheels that spin at different frequencies. The different frequencies determine an individual’s state of awareness as well as their emotional and mental tendencies.

The daily lifestyle choices we make effect the frequencies at which the chakras spin. For example, if we are eating healthy, exercising, meditating and have a harmonious daily routine, the quality of prana passing through the chakras make the chakras function at optimal levels; thus, the body and mind will a more profound experience of peace and harmony.

Below is a list of the seven principle chakras and how you can use the science of yoga and Ayurveda to bring greater balance to each energy center.

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Anahata Chakra (Heart Center) The Anahata Chakra is located at the heart center and it contains the qualities of the air element and vata dosha. The Anahata energy encourages a healthy unattachment to one’s actions, or in other words, a person is moving with heart centered energy rather from the space of the ego. If you are having a difficult time taking the “I” or “me” out of your service to the world, chant the bija mantra “Yum” to re-center and balance.

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Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Center)

Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Center)

Sahasra Padma Chakra (Head Center)

The Vishuddha Chakra is at the throat center and it houses the ether element and aspects of vata dosha. The Vishuddha energy cultivates healthy form of expression and ability to speak one’s truth. If you are experiencing the inability to share your uniqueness and voice your opinion, chant the bija mantra, “Hum” to increase the ether element and speak your truth.

The Ajna Chakra is located at the point between the two eyes, at the third eye center. Subtle ether is predominant here as well as vata dosha. The Ajna energy is how one sees the world. If you are feeling closed minded with the inability to understand other cultures and ways of being, chant the bija mantra, “Kshum”, to increase subtle ether and a greater state of awareness.

The Sahasra Padma Chakra is considered the thousand petal lotus at the crown of the head and causal ether is situated here. When there is a heightened state of awareness moving through this chakra, one experiences satchitananda, existence, knowledge and bliss.

In other words, one experiences a connection with the universe and no feeling of separation.

It is beneficial for people of all constitutions: vata, pitta and/or kapha, to chant the mantra “Om” to increase causal ether in the physical, mental and emotional bodies. If you are however, feeling depleted and fatigue, limit the amount of chanting performed in order to maintain your ojas or immunity.

The time honored complex sister sciences of yoga and Ayurveda as well as the chakra system are interwoven and connected. They all inform humankind on how to live optimally and honor our highest selves. To begin bringing these healing modalities into your life, just start with chanting a bija mantra that connects with your current state of being. Sit in meditation for 5 minutes per day every morning. This practice will begin to bring peace and calm into the mind and will ripple out into your daily life.

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IS THE “BIG APPLE” A BIG DEAL? ASSUMPTIONS SURROUNDING NYC ARTICLE BY : Nina J Robinson

Photographer : Richard Cordero Stylist : Lauren Abbondola Hair artist : Payton Holbrook Make up artist : Dunia Ghabour

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/ FEATURED ARTICLE

THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS Rushed commuters, subway stations and all-night coffee shops.

New York hosts such attractions as t h e S t a t u e o f L i b e r t y, M a d i s o n S q u a r e Garden, and Central Park.

It carries the attribution of no rest, and many find possibilities are in l a r g e q u a n t i t y. I t ’s t h e t o w n t h a t makes dreams come true. But is this city overrated? Does this renowned town truly deserve its reputation? I discuss annotations associated with t h e “ B i g A p p l e ,” t o s e e i f i t ’ s w o r t h the hype.

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Land Of Opportunity Many people end up in New York with big dreams, and empty pockets. They hope this move will open doors, get them casting or modeling contracts, or help boost their musical aspirations. They intend to rub the elbows of the industry elite, and feel that shopping their demo, showing up for auditions, or even building their portfolios, will all be more advantageous here. I must admit that the connections and offices of pure cognitive genius, do reside in this east coast playground, and I find that such hopes do not fall dead if intending to use New York as a platform to expose your inner ambitions. Many have been discovered and found amazing return in this great city, so opportunity certainly does not fall short.

Celebrity Sightings Many have the notion of meeting, greeting, or bumping into celebrities. Whether they migrate their restaurants, or clubs, they hope to come face to face with their idols. They feel that this city provides a greater chance of engaging with the celebrities we follow and fancy, and take their chances at concerts, appearances, and heavily rotated venues. Celebrities love this city. Many have homes here, and find that many engagements, whether award shoes or television contracts, will find them gracing New York. It is a safe bet to feel chances are increased in the “Big Apple,” as “big players,” do reside, visit, and frequent NYC.

Fashion The fashion that follows this city is electric. The shopping that is made available is high end supremacy, and many use this town to splurge and visit such mentioned staples. Fifth Avenue hosts the exquisite doors of Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, for example, and many are reeled in to experience the same shopping agendas as those they admire. Fashion shows and front and center fashion credits (i.e. Vogue), are all produced in NYC, making this a dream capital of threads and trending.

Education This city hosts prestigious institutes of education. While some may venture here on a “wing and a prayer,” others come for the distinguished studies of Columbia University, St. John’s University, Cornell, Fordham, New York Film Academy, Juilliard, or the Fashion Institute of Technology, to name a few. The Ivy League education available is as magnificent as those centering on fashion or the arts.

One does not have to aspire to be “spotted,” as their educational credentials can easily be asserted, achieved, and recognized. It houses supreme vessels of reputable academia.

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NYC DOES NOT LEAVE MANY DISAPPOINTED. TOURISM IS CONSTANT, AND OPTIONS ARE IN LARGE NUMBER. I SAY IT SURELY MAKES ITS MARK, AND IS WORTH EVERY BITE. ELUCID MAGAZINE 28

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/SPOTLIGHT

BOUTIQUES AND DESIGNERS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ARTICLE BY : Kevin Johnston

American Two Shot This little gem offers books, magazines, scents, and cards, but the real finds are on the racks. With curated clothes from Alice McCall, Ganni, Lyz Olko, and Nanushka, you’ll find enough mix-and-match options to take up your whole afternoon. americantwoshot. com Fanaberie This store’s name is Polish for “fun stuff you don’t need but that you just have to have.” Ella Sikorski takes the theme a little further to focus on helping each client find an individual style. Maybe that is why they have to have it. The looks here move seamlessly between simple and chic, making this a boutique for the thinking woman who likes to take time to explore the possibilities. fanaberienyc.com Kirna Zabête This is a place to let your fashion imagination loose.

You can choose from Frame Denim’s “dressed up casual,” Adam Lippes tailored sportswear, Racil’s Lebanon-tinged designs, and Stella McCartney knits, fringe dresses, and blazers. This partial list barely skims the surface of the deep pool of designers you will find at Kirna Zabete. An afternoon in this shop could leave your senses reeling and your credit card smoking. irnazabete.com.

IfSohoNewYork This shop is no upstart. IfSohoNewYork dates to 1978, and has been a mainstay of the fashion scene in the city ever since. The vibe is definitely avant-garde, with handmade fashions and a carefully curated collection from designers such as Yohji Yamamoto, Martin Margiela, Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Comme Des Garcons, Ivan Grundahl, Paul Harnden, Elena Dawson, Guidi, Marc Le Bihan, and M.A+. Someone said that everything old is new again, and IfSohoNewYork embodies that spirit. It still has the same old cutting edge, fashion-forward feel from the artsy days of pre-1990’s Soho. ifsohonewyork.com 7115 by Szeki For the minimalist, 7115 is the place. Offerings include t-shirt dresses, drawstring dresses, and frayed-edge tops.

The jewelry maintains the sleek, simple lines found in the clothes. A person could find a fashion understatement here that will stand out at gatherings where so many are just trying way too hard to be trendy. 7115newyork.com Artists & Fleas The Chelsea Market location has art, jewelry, knick-knacks, and clothes from independent designers. On any given day, you will find as many as 30 artists and artisans selling here.

Definitely a hot spot for those in the know, it is also a place where you could walk out with the outfit that no one, but no one has. artistsandfleas.com

Opening Ceremony Carol Humberto set the tone for boutique décor with the do-it-yourself ethos of this shop. Visit here if you want to travel the world without leaving the city. The international labels represented range from Madame X -Girl to Courrèges, with stops along the way at Nicopanda and Nehera. The house brand remains essential to city dwellers who want to flirt with artsy and deliberately-undeliberate fashion. openingceremony.com

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SPOTLIGHT -Darkest Fox’s mission is to celebrate sensuality by empowering individuals through bold, elegant aesthetics. We challenge the convention of externally worn lingerie in private settings by transforming this intimate piece of undergarment to be something that is worn discreetly (or not so discreetly) internally in public settings, as a reminder to the wearer that beauty and self-love starts from within.

In service to our mission, Darkest Fox curates emerging designer brands of cutting edge, elegant lingerie. We started business in the spring of 2016, working with local fashion designers in New York City to offer high quality intimates and accessories for the modern sophisticate. Our lingerie exudes sexiness and allure while honoring the body – which means no uncomfortable underwire bras nor tight straps and waistbands that leave marks on the skin. The end result is a collection of carefully selected pieces which all feature innovative designs that adjust to fit perfectly, expertly crafted garments with detailed stitching, and sumptuous cuts that accentuate the beauty of the human form.

Photographer - Crystal Cox Model - Candice Lam Lingerie - Darkest Fox

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Designer Marcia Arnsparger Santiago says: “Fashion, as defined in simplest form, is a manner of doing something; synonyms depicted as a mode, method, or manner.

Well, if this is fashions’ definition then my picture should be listed as a reference. My entire compass of life ,while inspired by others, was determined solely on my own comprehension of self and style. I live with the beat of my own drum and exude this character to further inspire individuality amongst all .I love to embellish my clothing, use different patterns, distress, etc. I realized young that my style was appreciated by others and led me to follow my dream of being a clothing designer.

My brand is a modern frontier of the fashion world. Since it’s conception, our motto has been “don’t fit in, stand out” which is a motto my team carries with them on a daily basis. My clothing isn’t made to fit the right man or woman but the right soul no matter who you are We work hard at KlosetSlayer to create styles that will be bold for any and everyone.

Labels are not accepted here, unless they are the ones on your clothing. Our goal is to make sure everyone feels like a Slayer in our clothes. Which is why we search around to find fabrics and prints that are unique that makes you feel just like you should:expressive.”

Photo: Matt Blackburn Photo Model: Nelli Model: Sharron Townsend Hair Artist: Rashida Bishop Make-Up Artist: Melisa Rosalez Agency: Couture Models

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SPOTLIGHT -New York based artisan and designer Rose Bergerdoes not fit into the role of a traditional fashion designer. While her work is as labor intensive and intricate as a lot of couture houses, she does not work with traditional modes of jewelry design or dressmaking.She works with metal, chain links, jump rings and rubber rings. Her work for all intensive purposes falls into the spectrum of functional and wearable art.

Rose’s love of jewelry stems from the role it plays in propagating aesthetics while being an intricate vehicle for all human cultures. And that underlying realization prompted her to create designs that are more than just accessories they are “wearable art” pieces, functional by design but philosophically close to a performance statement. In other words a form of functional couture.

Photographer: Marcus Isaac Model: Dezirae Bey MUA: Chrissy The Creator www.elucidmagazinecom

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Dur Doux (hard, soft) officially launched in 2013, is an “affordable luxury lifestyle brand” offering women’s ready to wear. Dur Doux style mixes and delicately balances contemporary, edgy, sophistication and innovation. The brand competes with established luxury fashion brands, to provide women luxury, unique but well constructed garments at sensible retail prices. The label reflects a fresh perspective and refined vision of trends in the fashion world.

Dur Doux clothing look and feel like luxury with a touch of Avant-Garde sensibility. Inspiration from the line comes from the blending of fashion cultural diversity into a “global fashion look”. The typical Dur Doux woman is strong, self assured, sexy but classy and elegant.

Photo: Joe Nunez Model Left: Cyrene Renee Model Right: Briy Gilgeous Hair Artist: Helen Marie Make-Up Artist: Jenna Scavone Stylist: Toshka Kroshka

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SPOTLIGHT --

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/ SPOTLIGHT

JORDAN PARK COUTURE

THE JORDAN PARK “Female” IS CONFIDENT, SMART, SEXY, SPIRITED, FLIRTY, SOCIAL AND ELEGANT. SHE LOVES TO EXPERIMENT WITH NEW LOOKS AND IS CONSTANTLY REINVENTING HERSELF.

Established in June 2016, Jordan Park Boutique is a division of Jordan Park Inc. They strives to transform its customers into Fashion Insiders.Their team works tirelessly, sourcing around the world to bring front row access to the highest fashion and latest trends at competitive and affordable prices. They not only carry “ must have” fashion items, cutting through the industry’s fashion static, but also carry everyday fashion essentials and special occasion pieces to make Jordan Park Chic a one stop shop.

Photo: Matt Blackburn Model Left: Bailey Lyons Model Right: Hair Artist: Rashida Bishop Make-Up Artist: Insha Mira ELUCID MAGAZINE 40

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A brand that not only cultivates arts but emotion through pieces.

With versatility and poise expression. Every look in the collection get more bold and unforgiving. Bring to the table more then just high fashion or an urban look in the clothing, it goes to dramatics and conceptual points. Using fashion as an armor to face every day battles and perseverance through each and every piece of clothing.

Break Bread Fashion is not only reaching one type of beings but fits each and every persons style to bring it full force. To learn more on Break Bread Fashion journey and evolution there are several platforms that has shown the growth in the brand.

Photo: Crystal Cox Model: Daria Shevchenko Hair Artist: Style By Nini Make-Up Artist: Yereniza Martinez Agency : Couture Models

SEX FOR SALE ?

A rancid epidemic is the sexual cycling of individuals, with the rendered intent of profit. The exploitation of sexuality is unfortunately a reoccurring tragedy, with the likes of both adults and adolescents, serviced and misused for monetary gain. The fight against sex trafficking is real, and its cause needs to remain obnoxious and redundant, to provoke change.

People being sold into the world of sex exchange is unrelenting and many become exposed to the greed and capture as young children. Sex trafficking is an example of modern-day slavery, and involves the resistance of a tortured many. People are held against their will, while being drugged, controlled, and punished, all with the result of spun compliance. They are forced to engage in commercial sex, under the guise of fraud or coercion. There is no viable escape, and those imprisoned in this life of sordid abuse and inhumane trade, are promised little chance to escape.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline, www. humantrafficking.org, provides an avenue of information and help, is available 24 hours a day, either by phone

Unethical, yet Trendy?

The hoopla around fashion is the freedom to wear.

The ability to illustrate self-expression, among the stare, adorations, or critiques. Whether a fashion statement is ridiculed is not necessarily a deviating factor, as many relish in the “funky fun,” no matter the take on forbidden choice. There are certainly lines that are crossed, blurred, and tested, when some decide to include their fashion forward style, but many people ignore the insult, and instead flourish in the individuality suggested or popularized item introduced.

(1-888-373-7888), text (“HELP” or “INFO” to 233733), or chat via the website. It is confidential, and an effective way to start an end.

Fur and leather are big concepts to consider when defining an “unethical,” wear, as many revolt against its use and capture in clothing trending and marketing. The suffrage of animals involved is emphasized and glorified, as such groups as PETA, use celebrity models to raise awareness and deject participation, yet many refuse the alternative. People take the staple of wearing a real fur or leather as luxurious and grandiose, and have very small intent on removing its inclusion in their closet. Is it right?

Should we be more careful on what trends we appear careless towards? Or is the walkway our own personal runway, in which our preference is justifiable?

Is Fashion our “Free Meal?”

Physical appearance has long been an overused bartering tool. Whether successful or not, immoral or not, ones’ beauty has always seemed to pave the way to their furnishings and rewards. Many feel that the “beautiful,” have very little pains, in the world of want and desire, and have begun to contribute such fancies to wardrobe. Dressing in the most lustrous fabrics can certainly raise an eyebrow, or turn a head, but can it also feed an extended hand? Has the glamour of a nicely dressed individual, begun to intrigue the masses, to the point of millions? Are we quick to spend and act splendor, when we see someone stylish or seductively dressed?

Many consider being fashionable as an easy ticket to whatever is lusted for. Presenting oneself either dripping in diamonds, or scantily dressed, has become a bargaining tactic, a conversation starter, or simply a personal advertisement. If you “dress the part,” then you reap the rewards. Many achieve trips, dinners, gifts, affections, all due to the way they determine their lay. This is also true in the realms of any profession. You waltz in a board room with a 3-piece collection, or enter a bank with suitcase and trench coat, you invite a stigma to surround you, and you see the reactions of others become a bit more attentive and assured in your worth. If you adorn yourself collectively, then you are adored entirely. There just may be a connection between thread and getting ahead.

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Some interesting statistics:

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62% of victims are tricked into trafficking by someone they know and trust (boyfriend/girlfriend, best friend, ect.).

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unexplained absences from school,

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35% of victims are sold into human trafficking by their own family.

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inability to attend school,

I have been with the Michigan State Police for twenty years. I have been in my current role as a Community Service Trooper /Recruiter for almost five years. I have been involved with Human Trafficking awareness for about the last four years. My partner, Trooper Amy Belanger also works in this field and is heavily involved with human trafficking. We have been partners for about three and a half years.

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Only 3% of victims are kidnapped.

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runs away from home,

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Every year, 300,000 children in the U.S. are at risk for commercial sexual exploitation.

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makes references to frequent travel,

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Every minute, two children become victims of sexual exploitation.

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sudden changes in behavior or material possessions,

What are you passionate about?

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A trafficker/pimp will know within seconds of contacting their victim if they “got them”.

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makes reference to sexual situations that are beyond ages specific norms,

I would say I’m very passionate about my job, especially the work I am currently doing with the community. One message I want the world to understand is there is no such thing as a juvenile prostitute! If they are under age, it is trafficking!

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It takes as little as 8 minutes for a trafficker to win over his/ her target.

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drug addiction,

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90% of all the children trafficked for sexual purposes are American children.

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signs of physical abuse,

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There are as many as 2.8 million runaway children each year in the U.S.

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Avoids eye contact,

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Within 48 hours of a child being on the street, 1 in 3 will be approached by a sex trafficker.

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fearful of authority figures.

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The most common approach is the “lover boy” approach.

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This is where the trafficker will appear interested in a romantic relationship while gradually coercing the victim into prostitution.

How long have you worked in this field?

What does Human Trafficking look like and how does it affect American Youth?

Human Trafficking Awareness Interview with Michigan State Police Trooper Steven Kramer of Flint Post Steven A. Kramer, age 44 is a community Service Trooper of Michigan State PoliceFlint Post. For over the last four years, Trooper Kramer has pledged to do something to change the dynamics of the way human trafficking is viewed and dealt with in Flint, Michigan. Flint is well-known as the city drowning in so many other problems and fighting so many difficult obstacles. Studying online recorded the racial make-up of Flint consists of 57% black; 37% white while 42% of Flint residents live below the poverty line. The average household income is only $39,000.

Flint has ranked as one of America’s most dangerous cities for several years based on FBI crime statistics of violent crimes per capita.

Human Trafficking is just one more nightmare this city is trying to combat.

Human trafficking is both sex and labor trafficking. It is a form of modern-day slavery that occurs around the world and in the United States. It involves an act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring, or receiving a person through the use of FORCE, FRAUD, or COERCION. ANYONE can be a victim of human trafficking and ANYONE can be a trafficker. Flint and Michigan State Police are hoping to bridge the gap with Flint neighborhoods.

Some warning signs of a victim include:

This is a tough question to answer, because it can look like so many different things.

Human trafficking is a crime that affects victims of any age, gender, race, or immigration status. Human trafficking occurs in all parts of this country – from cities, to suburbs, to rural areas.

Traffickers/Pimps are constantly coming up with new ways to lure our youth into this lifestyle. They prey on desperation, curiosity, and naivety.

IT CAN HAPPEN ANYWHERE !!

Men like Steven need to be recognized for all they do to help open eyes and bring awareness to the crisis of human trafficking in Flint, Michigan and around our country. Together as a community and as a country we can make small steps to help bring awareness and support to those affected by human trafficking.

Pimps/Traffickers can be girls, women, boys, young men, and older men. Many kids are runaways at the time of recruitment. Between 100,000 and 200,000 of United States Children are taken into trafficking each year. The desired starting age is twelve to thirteen for girls and twelve years old for boys.

What motivated you to become a state trooper and more importantly what inspired you to get involved with bringing awareness to human trafficking?

My main motivation to become a State Trooper was my father. My father worked for and retired from the Detroit Police Department as a Detective Sgt. For as long as I can remember, being a police officer is all I ever wanted to be. I look up to my father and have much respect for him. I guess I wanted to follow in his footsteps. It was his suggestion to join the Michigan State Police if I really wanted to be a police officer.

What steps did you take to begin bringing awareness and getting involved?

I am a member of the Genesee County and Shiawassee County Human Trafficking task forces. I give presentations on human trafficking awareness at: churches, schools, community action groups, neighborhood associations, Law enforcement, Fire stations, EMS, Medical professionals, and anyone who requests one.

What advice would you give to parents of youth?

Monitor your children’s activity!!! I can’t stress that enough. Kids today have cell phones, tablets, computers with basically unlimited access to the Internet. Parents are too trusting of their kids. We should be keeping tabs on what our kids are doing!

I would say the more I learned about human trafficking and how it happens everywhere, I became interested in seeing what I could do to help.

There is no such thing as violating your kids privacy when they are under 18!! You should know what your kids are doing online including: Who they’re talking to, Apps on their phones, Online places visited.

I joined the Genesee County Human Trafficking task force and began to learn more about it. I also attended presentations from victims speaking about their experiences.

I see how it happens and how it affects our communities. I felt that helping to educate the community was a great way to help.

If anyone is interested in contacting you further what would be the easiest way to reach you?

The best way to contact me is via Email: KramerS1@michigan.gov

One person that has been personally impacted by his actions is Rebecca Huey. I’ve spoke with her many times. She’s a phenomenal person.

She had the privilege to meet Michigan State Police Officer Trooper Kramer, Flint Post when she was a special guest speaker as a Christian Actress for a Human Trafficking event held by the Genessee County Medical Society Alliance in 2015.

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Now as an Entrepreneur, Actress and Motivational Speaker, Rebecca Huey’s life has been changed for the positive by being able to share her story with Trooper Kramer which gave her the opportunity to begin to heal. Over time, she was able to share with Trooper Kramer her story and journey and how she is overcoming and excelling today.

Rebecca is an American actress known for her award-winning role Store Clerk “Best Cast” in redemptive romance feature film Providence that came to theaters in February of 2016. She was nominated and chosen Top 10 and Top 3 in 2015 and Top 1 in 2016-2017 by fans from across the world and Faith Flix Films, Tennessee for her press release interview.

Faith Flix Films released her interview in 2015 and it has traveled around the world bringing many others hope – the only hope that can be found in Jesus Christ.

Rebecca is also a female business entrepreneur that holds a business degree from a private college and is the owner of Education Creation LLC with Trademark Cursive Kidz™. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm8830953/

So in her words concerning Trooper Kramer: “ He is a voice for me and so many others that don’t have the strength to speak right away.

He has gone above and beyond his job. He deserves to be honored and recognized for his sacrificial hard work, tireless effort to help others, superior dedication to combat human trafficking and for being a loyal trusted voice for those that don’t have the strength to speak.

He is doing so much to help so many others in human trafficking in Michigan. He has helped me more than he will ever know and he deserves to be recognized for all he is doing.

-Rebecca M. Huey “

Written by Author Laura Aranda who published her first novel titled, Pushing Back the Darkness in April 2017. This novel brings awareness to human trafficking in America.

You can find the book on Amazon or at her blog: Www.authorlauraaranda.com

For speaking engagements email: lauraaranda@owlofhope.com

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ARTICLE BY : SAHARA ROSE

THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR MORNING ROUTINE Photographer: Natascha Lindemann Model: Julia Wulf Make-up: Shari Kramer using MAC and Inglot cosmetics Hair: Shari Kramer Assistent: Robert Monka Retoucher: Steven Hoschek

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Every day you rise, you are given a new chance to create your ideal day. In Ayurveda, the world’s oldest health system, it is believed that the way you start your day is how you will feel for its duration. If you start your day stressed and rushed, you’ll subconsciously feel hurried and agitated for the rest of the day. If you begin your day with inner peace and tranquility, you will take on that mindfulness for the day’s duration.

Ask yourself:

In my book, Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda with foreword by Deepak Chopra, I share ways you can set up your morning routine to maintain that blissed-out feeling all day.

With some simple practices, you can cultivate balance, detoxify your body, increase your energy levels, stimulate your metabolism, enhance your digestion, and prevent cravings so you can go through your day with awareness and presence. All it takes is adding 30 minutes to your morning to reap these benefits and have a more productive and centered day.

What things am I doing that I could cut back on?

The Importance of Your Morning Routine

How much time do I spend on social media or other distractions?

How many hours do I devote each week to watching TV or movies?

What can I shorten or get rid of in my nighttime ritual so I can make time for my morning ritual?

Your daily routine is called dinacharya in Sanskrit. Din means “day,” and acharya means “to follow” or “close to.” As mentioned in Chapter 9, you should follow the rhythm of the sun to best support your body’s natural functions. The early morning hours are most essential for setting the tone for the rest of the day.

After a long night’s rest, you must awaken, open, and activate each channel of your body so you can begin your day on the right foot. If you do not take the time to stimulate your senses and detoxify your body in the morning, you will carry heaviness and toxicity for the rest of the day.

Morning routines have countless mental and physical benefits. The benefits of a morning routine include increased energy, enhanced digestion, improved mood, a detoxified body, increased productivity, a more centered mind, enhanced awareness, an ability to focus, less mental fog, and decreased stress levels. Many successful people, in all industries, credit their success to a morning practice. You can, too. No matter how busy you are, carve out some time in your schedule for a morning practice.

What If You’re Not a Morning Person?

It’s not difficult to become an early riser, even if you’ve always been a “night owl.” All it takes is practice. The number-one thing is to get to sleep earlier. No matter how hard you try, you’ll never be a morning person if you’re going to sleep late at night. Prioritize your morning versus your night activities. Was it really worth staying up until midnight to watch that TV show? Did you use your time productively before heading to bed? How many hours did you spend on social media the day before?

There can be enough time in the day to do the things you want to do. You just need to cut back on the things that are keeping you from having time for those tasks.

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Everyone’s morning routine will look a little different, but here are some general Ayurvedic guidelines to help you establish yours: •

Rise before the sun.

•

Take a few moments to recall your dreams and express your gratitude.

•

Rise from bed and gently stretch your body.

•

Go to bathroom to evacuate.

•

Splash your face with warm water six times.

•

Brush your teeth and scrape your tongue.

•

Swish oil in your mouth while you’re getting ready and boiling water for tea.

•

Spit out the oil, and rinse your mouth with warm water.

•

Drink your tea and meditate.

•

Practice yoga.

•

Eat a warming breakfast.

When you’ve pinpointed your time-wasters, choose one that you will shorten by 15 minutes. Then, go to sleep 15 minutes earlier and wake up 15 minutes earlier. The following week, take another 15 minutes away so you can go to sleep and wake up another 15 minutes earlier. Continue doing this each week until you’re getting to sleep by 10 p.m. and waking by 6 a.m. By following this gradual process, you can become a morning person easily and without any drastic changes or force. You first must create space to add the things you need. By removing 15 minutes of activities that aren’t serving you well, you can add 15 minutes of things that are.

Keep in mind you do not exactly have to follow this order, but this gives you an overview of what your morning should look like.

Mornings are a time to release toxins through evacuation, tongue scraping, and oil pulling, as well as rev up your agni with hot tea, yoga, and a warming breakfast.

You could add other practices to your morning routine such as nasya nasal drops, which is applying oil to your nasal passages, as well as abhyanga, or self-oil massage, which I also discuss in my book Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda.

The way you start your day is how you’ll feel for the rest of the day so set your tone right with an Ayurvedic morning routine!

Sahara Rose Ketabi is the bestselling author of Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda and host of the Highest Self Podcast. Discover your mind-body type with her free quiz at iamsahararose.com and follow her for daily Ayurvedic wisdom at @iamsahararose.

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THE STREETS OF NEW YORK THE PEOPLE’S RUNWAY ARTICLE BY : Nina J Robinson

Photo: kristin brynn costello Model: Sianna @ Fenton Models Hair & Make-Up Artist: Stephanie Paulino Stylist: Nora Russell

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FANCY THAT When people consider the fancy of New York City, one can name the endless tourist locales, or the restless aura notoriously attached. However, a big concept that will continue to be a recognizable staple is the fashion that carouses these slumber-less residents. Among the elbows we bump by, or the arms that hail the cabs we migrate, are the stitches of the fashion forward. Whether we score the latest threads from print, or we can enjoy and endure the creativity of one person, we are introduced to the flamboyancy we have come to love, loathe, and list as “fashion trending.”

New York remains a fashion staple. It hosts fashion week, and brings together the fashion elite. The ones who can price it, buy it, and wear it, are no different than the ones who are able to mock it, mimic it, or thrift it. The inspirations we see on corporate America, the surviving artist, or the boisterous celebrity, all birth our inner compassion for style and suitability. Stylistic elements have come to consume our intrigue, hence the commencement of such accolades like “on fleek,” or “lit,” all demonstrative of society and their affliction towards all things lovely, gregarious, and urbanized. New York highlights the “wealth of the wearer,” and the emphasis of labels, tags, and street swag.

The diversity this city brings remains a distinctive concept of “ready to wear,” and introduces the styles otherwise considered “unfitting.” Consider athletic wear with a leather corset, of the feather down, bubble coat, paired with Timberlands and the effortless “white tee.” This fashion capital holds no bounds, and limitations seem to surrender to the masses. Celebrities flock, and we anticipate what will be revealed under the color fur or sitting front row, but more than that we keep our eyes much lower. The urban concepts that flourish from the sidewalks, meet and greet their way to the television stars, and the music entrepreneurs, all fans of the simplistic pairing of jeans and a graphic tee.

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We are hypnotized by the “foot wear,” as we witness the contagious pairing of Nike Jordan’s with leggings or a dress, or perhaps the promise of some Adidas hard shells, or Nike Huaraches. Boots and fur stay a cemented winter ornament, or the shorts, sneakers, and scarves we see embezzled or worn with crew socks and a fitted. The pattern mixes are unforgiving. The ingenuity is endless, and we’re hooked. The street hustlers bring a practicality to the threads and fits we lust after. Not only are the celebrities adorning what we consider chic, but the streets are buzzing with the collective creations that continue to populate the nearest shopping spot.

We have the options of clothing splendor that adorns Fifth Avenue, or the solace of our living room or nearby novelty shop. This city sweeps with boutiques and high-end couture, and if the media attention is not enough to captivate our closets, the celebutante lifestyle showcases the very essence of what to wear, and how to wear it.

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