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Vol. 9 No. 1

Table of Contents... 8

Positive Influence:Dikembe Mutombo

What Makes a People Strong

Lost in Diversity: African Americans Under the Radar

The Role Model Summit: Inspiration for Our Time

Yoga is for EveryBody

Book Remarks

SHIFT: Changing the Game

Liquid Assets Records

Bending Light: The Automotive Art of Aaron Vickery

by David Olver

by Dr. Algie C. Gatewood

by Charlene Williams

by Fawn Aberson

by Rev. Wren Marvel

by Fawn Aberson

by Chris Ilagan

by Dan Townshend

On our Cover: From an ordinary childhood to a member of a royal family, Al Joyner speaks candidly about his life, trials, tribulations and successes on page 14

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Letter From the Editor: Its spring in Oregon which makes me remember the first time I passed through these parts coming from California in search of a new life, hope and opportunity. I felt as if it were still the days of the great wagon trains when large groups of people left the cities of the East with visions of striking a claim for land or gold. I distinctly remember driving through Oregon, as the pink and white blossoms of the trees seemed so befitting for the time of the year; signaling the beginning of a new cycle of life. After being here some years now, I truly value the flowering trees because they seem to come at a time when you just can’t take another dark day of winter rains. After being in darkness for such a long time you start to think dark thoughts. Then one day, you notice the cherry blossoms flying about you, signaling that change is coming; giving hope for a better day. That day is here! I have worked in social services for many years and this question continues to reveal itself, “why do people find it is easier to live down to their lowest

“Why do people find it is easier to live down to their lowest standards, than to live up to their highest expectations?” standards, than to live up to their highest expectations?” Not all people want good consciousness or a better way of life. We have carried out these wrong actions, behavioral patterns and thought processes for so long that we have accepted them, refusing to let go. The mind seems to substantiate its way of thinking; good or bad, healthy or unhealthy. We see people all around us in positions of authority drunk on a sense of power, leading our schools and programs towards a way of life that no longer exists. Family units have broken down, schools are ﬁghting to stay open, and the staff are contemplating whether or not they should carry a gun to class for protection. In this issue we aim to shine a light on this subject through introducing valuable role models to our youth. With Obama in ofﬁce, a young, African American male role model is able to pierce through the darkness of the past years with a new era. When the

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electoral vote was counted and that man emerged to the center stage, it hit me: now I have the freedom to exhale, a freedom that had been long deferred. Lincoln may have freed the slaves, but that day gave me a true sense of an ancestral, spiritual freedom that can now be mine. Obama is a visible symbol of this freedom and his message is a call to action to those men and women who have held the front line; to those people who have walked the talk; the father who has made a difference; the teacher, the coach that held their ground even though it wasn’t popular and to the grandparent that said, “Hold on, there is change a’comin’.” This issue of Flossin is dedicated to role models. It didn’t take us long to round up a group of very special people to get the party started. Our message of hope needs to be reinforced with vigor as it is worth ﬁghting for those systems and environments that inspire people to their greatest potential. That’s why we have made it our number one goal to bring readers information and programs that reﬂect times rich with hope and inspiration.

John Washington

Warmest regards, Editor-in-Chief

Vol. 9 No. 1

CONTRIBUTORS CEO/Editor-in-Chief John Washington Executive Director Fawn Aberson

WHO AND WHAT IS FLOSSIN MEDIA?

Creative Director Wren Marvel

Flossin Media is a powerhouse that owns and operates within Print, TV, Epic Events, Street Teams, Recording, Graphic, Apparel and Digital Web Production Outlets. Flossin Media is an integrated marketing communications company specializing in strategically marketing to businesses and consumers in the multicultural market place.

Graphics and Layout Director SpiderSquid MediaLab www.spidersquid.com Staging Director Events Randal J Faber Contributing Writers Dr. Algie C. Gatewood Chris Ilagan David Olver Dan Townsend Charlene Williams

Flossin as an evolved urban term is: A reflection of your inner-self, demonstrated in your outer world. Its mission is to bring to light and existing formula for good living. It is an awakening, spiritual in nature; its essence is to educate and inspire our readers and viewers through highlighting the diversified lifestyles of successful people.

Cover Photography Heather Drake Contributing Photography Erika Dean Heather Drake Dikembe Mutombo Foundation Peter Kim Adam Rindy Dan Townsend Board of Directors Jeﬀ Belle Terrell Brandon

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FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Education

Positive Influence by David Olver

There’s an African proverb that says a tree is known by its fruit. In other words, people will judge you by your actions. NBA star Dikembe Mutombo, tree-like in stature at 7’2”, has brought many charitable possibilities to fruition. This is not an article about his African philanthropy, his $30 million hospital, his work with orphans, sufferers of Tuberculosis, Malaria, Aids, or even blocked basketball shots, but rather about a positive role model in our world. You may pass this article off as a syrupy puff piece about a celebrity. But as I write this, I’ve just checked the website of a major newsource. Thirteen of the ﬁfteen headlines involved torture, serial killers, child abduction, an earthquake, and other events on the grocery list of tragedy. It’s time that we, as a culture, recognize the imbalance of negative media, and how vital it is, (and newsworthy), to hear a story about someone we feel proud to tell our children about.

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Dikembe Mutombo told Flossin’ Magazine about his journey to the United States on a scholarship to attend school at Georgetown University. It wasn’t an athletic scholarship, but a USAID scholarship. Dikembe was intent on becoming a medical doctor. His dream was to return to Africa to “change the living conditions of [his] people,” and “see that change happen in my lifetime.” He told us how young people today watch television, see wealthy celebrities who don’t have an education. And

Education

how that distorts their vision of accomplishment. Take basketball as a microcosm of this distortion. With glamorized stories like a teenaged Lebron James signing a $90 million Nike contract before playing a single NBA game (or college game, for that matter), it’s easy to understand where the get-rich American dream lives. But what’s not shown is the hard work and practice that led up to that lucrative contract. The example of hard work is where a healthy role model like Mr. Mutombo leads by example. When Dikembe arrived in the states, he barely spoke English. He told me he would go to an uncredited English class from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then take his college classes in the afternoon. He tape recorded most of his classes in the ﬁrst two years of college, and would listen to them several times that day, to fully understand what his professors were saying. He had to push himself, but he knew that it was essential to his success. “Everything we earn will come from our sweat.”

grew up in. The most important thing in life is what you want to be tomorrow. I took that very seriously.” Coach Thompson acted as a father ﬁgure to Dikembe, and helped him in his progression. He credits these role models as paramount to his accolades in the NBA. Now the progression of positive emulation has passed to Dikembe. He’s currently working on the Big Heart campaign, a beneﬁt to help women and children at his Biama Marie Mutombo Hospital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. If you are interested in learning more or donating, please visit www.dmf. org.

“Everything we earn will come from our sweat.”

In a time when our newspapers too often report the crimes and mistakes that sports ﬁgures make, instead of their charity and benevolence, it’s important that we have a role model like Dikembe Mutombo.

His words for the next generation are obvious, but important. “Many things can give you great success if you have an education. For you to succeed, you have to go to school.” He said that “In America, life is much better than in other parts of the world,” and that “we should be thankful for what we have,” not for what we could have. Beyond education, Dikembe said that patience and a quiet perseverance were key characteristics for your life’s journey. “Everything cannot happen in one day. Life is something that’s full of many doors. And it’s not just that because you opened your ﬁrst door and didn’t see nobody sitting in the conference room, that don’t mean that when you go to the next door, there will be nobody either. So it’s just of matter of when was your time?” His role models were his parents, and his Georgetown basketball coach John Thompson. He says his parents taught him “the road to church, to success, and to become somebody, despite where you come from. It doesn’t matter what kind of poverty you

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Become a part of the movement where sustainable economic growth and small business development are always in fashion.

The City of Portland is looking for small business owners of professional consulting and construction firms. Need to learn a trade first? We can help.

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Education

What makes a people strong? By Dr. Algie C. Gatewood

Don’t worry – it’s a trick question. There are literally dozens of answers, and many of them have merit. There is one factor, however, common to virtually every strong, cohesive, and vibrant culture – they have all learned to build on their past successes, and learn from their past mistakes.

you can talk to and learn from is one of the best ways for an individual – and by extension, a culture – to build on past successes and learn from past mistakes. If a role model lives in a place where a young brother or sister wants to reach, a mentor is the one that will help him or her get there.

But how does this happen, exactly? Like the ﬁrst question, this one has many answers. Certainly, a culture is strengthened by institutions and traditions which encourage and foster justice, fair play, community, and compassion. And just as certainly, individuals who manage to accomplish great things are held up as examples for others to emulate – role models, in other words.

Of course, there is no reason that the part of role model and mentor can’t be played by the same person. Indeed, if a mentor is worth listening to and learning from, he or she is also likely to be someone worthy of admiration and respect. What makes a mentor, though, is the relationship – the trust and understanding built from time spent together in constructive pursuits, whether it’s on the court, in the classroom, or even in the home.

The importance of role models can’t be underestimated. They are the people whose success is viewed as a benchmark, and against whom others’ achievements are measured. But in my mind, a role model is only one side of a coin, and the less important side at that. While they are rightly admired and respected, role models – especially celebrity role models – are often distant, aloof examples of what someone can accomplish with drive and talent. For a young person trying to ﬁnd his or her way in the world, there are people who are more important than role models – and they are called mentors.

This is how a people become strong. This is how a culture builds on its successes and learns from its mistakes -- the lessons of experience, the stories of triumphs and failures, all passed along from one generation to the next through individual relationships.

Let me give you an example of the difference between the two. Let’s say there’s a young brother who dreams of becoming a basketball superstar. He may have players he looks up to as role models – say, Brandon Roy or LaMarcus Aldridge or Greg Oden – and these players might say all the right things about the importance of staying in school, working hard, or playing fair. But who’s there for our aspiring hoops star when he’s struggling with school or a relationship, or learning what it is to be a man? This is where mentors come in. It’s not enough to have a distant ﬁgure to look up to and emulate, although this is important, as I mentioned earlier. Having someone in your life, close to you, that

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So, when you see that kid down the street who wants to be the next Brandon Roy – you can help him along the way. He may not make it to the NBA, but with wisdom and guidance, he’ll end up a better man, and all of us will beneﬁt from it.

Algie C. Gatewood, Ed.D., is president of Portland Community College – Cascade Campus.

Education

Lost in Diversity

African Americans off the Radar by Charlene Williams

Today’s diversity conversation has diluted the pressing needs of the African American community. The term “diversity” has become nothing more than a buzz word for academics, politicians and opportunists looking for entrance into certain circles. Meanwhile, the issue of race, speciﬁcally African American, once central, is barely peripheral if in the conversation It is not that gender, ability, religion or biases of any kind do not warrant deliberate focused and immediate attention. Nor do I want to discredit the work of those who use the term diversity to affect meaningful change in their communities. Today people are given the liberty to deﬁne what diversity means individually and operate accordingly. In the meantime, children of color still lag behind their peers academically and economically. I am disgusted with diversity posters, trainings and assemblies that only check the box for federally funded programs while African Americans in those same environments remain underemployed, undereducated and generally ignored. PC changes as often as PCs change. When the term diversity was used during the civil rights era it originally meant racial diversity. It has evolved to include various disenfranchised groups that have surfaced as society continues

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to evolve. Well-intentioned citizens find themselves in the crossfire of heated debates or verbally accosted by the more astute as awareness of terms and injustices change. One thing that has not changed is the fact that African Americans are generally left fending for basic needs and rights. African American males, in particular, fall significantly behind in the education and employment arenas. The diversity conversation’s original intent was to close the socioeconomic gap between White America and racial minorities. The gap remains and I wonder where we would fall on Malcolm X’s scale as outlined in the quote, “If you stick a knife nine inches into my back and pull it out three inches, that is not progress. Even if you pull it all the way out, that is not progress. Progress is healing the wound, and America hasn’t even begun to pull out the knife.” My true beef? The gross underrepresentation

Education

of people of color in higher education – spe- in the room – white privilege. Everyone has cifically in the state of Oregon. Oregon is to acknowledge their role in the racial game known for its commitment to the environ- and how it continues to perpetuate institument and flair for social justice. Justice is tionalized racism – those who operate with not distributed appropriately when protect- the power and those who acquiesce to it. ing the endangered species is at the forefront Implications: The diversity conversation while supporting the African American col- needs to return to its inaugural roots and lege graduate, also endangered, lacks the ensure that people of color have access to same sense of urgency. Where is the justice “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” represented in a state where African Americans make up I am disgusted with diversity posters, 2% of the population, just over 1% of the Oregon University trainings and assemblies that only check System and almost 10% of the the box for federally funded programs prison system? Tell me where are the protestors when over while African Americans in those same 50% of the children of color environments remain underemployed, fall behind in reading and mathematics in 3rd, 8th and undereducated and generally ignored. 10th grade? Why aren’t we up in arms about that? We are in the infor- In the context of education this means that mation age and still live in a society where resources need to follow educators who scores of minorities lack the preparation have high standards for all students and and guidance to successfully transition into have clearly defined and proven means for higher education. Of the ones who make meeting those standards. Universities and it into the ivory towers of higher education Colleges need to work closer with schools only a small portion complete with degrees and local businesses to align theory with and an even smaller number obtain employ- practice and set up culturally responsive ment in a related field. networks aimed at the retention and graduThe work of Critical Race Theory has cre- ation of minority students. State legislators ated a resurgence of the race issue. Critical need to assure voters that resources acquired Race Theory addresses the connection beat the expense of those falling through the tween race and property and explores how cracks aren’t spent on buckets to catch stuinstitutionalized racism perpetuates inequi- dents but on resources to repair the breaches. ties in education and in the accumulation This will lead to an equitable distribution of of wealth through property ownership in resources and a citizenry responsive to the this country. Glenn Singleton, Critical Race needs of ALL community members and its Theorist, and others are working diligently environment. Education is not a panacea, with school districts around the country to but I believe it plays a significant role, if not narrow the education gap. Such presenters the most important role, in addressing the pull no punches as they address the elephant diversity question.

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Education

The Role Model Summit by Fawn Aberson

The next few pages will outline a few of the speakers from Flossin’s Role Model Summit. The summit is a three-day series of motivational, inspirational and educational speeches delivered to struggling high school and college students. We chose these people to deliver the message because at some point in their lives, each one of them decided to embrace challenges and set the highest of goals. They made difficult decisions without self-destructing. They learned from mistakes, owned up to short-comings, demonstrated dedication and displayed courage when confronted by fears. They never quit and they simply chose to believe…passionately…. that they were winners.

SERVICE SSG (P) Eric Hielscher When asked how the 12 years of his service in theUS Army [including four tours in Iraq and Afghanistan earning a him the Purple Heart and Bronze Star], has inﬂuenced his life, without missing a beat, Staff Sergeant Eric Hielscher states, “They turned me from a follower to a leader.” SSG Hielscher joined the military when he was seventeen. “At that time I had no plans and no structure. My recruiter was a positive inﬂuence and is still one of my biggest mentors. He not only gave me some good advice, but he showed me exactly what I would be getting into if I joined. When I went in, that was exactly what I got.” His decision has allowed SSG Hielscher to travel the world, attend and pay for college, while serving his country. “No matter what the call is, I am going to be representing the United States with a code of honor that the Army has given me: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage.” SSG Hielscher knows that many young people are hungry for structure and guidance just like he was at that age, which is why he has taken time out to participate in Flossin’s Role Model Summit.

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Education

FOCUS Al “Sweetwater” Joyner Al Joyner is part of the first family of track and field. In the 80s, he was an Olympic gold medalists in the triple jump. His late wife, the incredibly fast and flamboyant, Florence “Flo Jo” Joyner and his sister, Jackie Joyner Kersey were also Olympic gold medalists time and time again. This pretty much makes Joyner an expert on what it takes to be a winner. He has all of the qualities of a modern day hero right down to his nickname. He earned the name in high school as a lifeguard at the community pool after saving a little girl who was drowning. “Every time she saw me after that she would always say, ‘there is that sweet man by the water’ Everyone started calling me Sweetwater.” Growing up in a tough neighborhood in East St Louis, Joyner was born into poverty to teenage parents who both battled addiction to drugs and alcohol. “A lot of my friends had similar stories and I’d say 70% of the guys I grew up with ended up either dead or in jail,” stated Joyner. Despite his upbringing, Joyner made several key decisions early in life that turned his fate from one of despair to that of triumph. He stayed close to the one member of his family who encouraged him, his grandmother. He had crazy childhood friends who wouldn’t alow him to be crazy with them because they knew he was something special. He also had a high school coach who guided him to focus on winning goals. Because of these influences, he stayed above the bad ones. In College he turned down opportunities to smoke weed knowing that at any given moment, success could be sidetracked. He used temptations like these to exercise fortitude. Today Joyner trains future champions as a track and field coach at the U.S Olympic Training center in Chula Vista, Ca. He mentors young athletes everyday guiding them on the characteristics of real success. “Too many people want it [success] instantly. They want microwave success, the kind you throw in a cup and stir over. This type of training will not sustain you. True success still comes by using the old school principles. Meaning, it takes hard work, dedication, believing in yourself, respect for yourself and other people around you. You end up being around a lot longer doing things the correct way.” Al Joyner could have easily taken another path, but with focus, he was able to silence external voices of disparity and listen to his internal voice to become a winner. Today in East St. Louis, you can drive down Al Joyner Drive, a street recently named in his honor, and know that roads can lead from disparity to victory; you just have to follow the right path.

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Education

DEDICATION Nate Burleson Growing up in South Seattle, Nate Burleson felt blessed. He had two loving parents and three brothers. Burleson’s house was the hub of the block and he knew he was lucky. Many of his friends didn’t have that kind of family support, especially from strong male inﬂuences. “My dad was at home, I could touch him, he was real to me and he could hug me. He was there to scold me when I was doing wrong and pat me on the butt when I was doing right. He was a man, doing a job, feeding his family and loving his kids.” Years later, Burleson now holds the job of wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks and he credits his family and community for his success. “Sports in my community really hit stride in the 1990s. People were latching onto youth sport teams and associations with real support. Many parents and people from the city were directly involved in these programs. “They showed up, gave us high ﬁves and words of encouragement. That gave us something else to look at besides what was going on in the streets. It wasn’t about individuals it was about the team.” Burleson practices the team way of life as a husband, father and community leader. He donates money to those organizations that helped shape is success and more importantly, he donates his time in direct contact with young people who need his encouragement.

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Education

OPPORTUNITY

Larry Miller Larry Miller has been around the business of sports for a long time, heading up some of the most recognizable brands in Oregon and the world. He has gone from being president of Jatzen Inc, to being the president of the Jordan Brand at Nike, to his present position as the president of the Portland Trailblazers. When asked what characteristics he had that made companies recognize him as a leader, he said, “I have learned to develop the ability to listen so that I can ﬁgure out how to enhance an organization with the information I have learned.” By applying this formula, Larry continues to motivate and inspire his organization and community to live to their greatest potential.

INSIGHT

Isaac Dixon Discernment is a gift. Being able to put the right people in the right place at the right time can make or break any given project. Isaac Dixon has developed this gift. He recalled a moment while working at a small staffing company when, “I went out to their parking lot which was full of cars, shoe boxes and long haired hippies and I thought, ‘what is going on?’ It turned out the be the company Nike and I would later be hired to run their human resource department. Needless to say, I continued to watch them grow. Sending them people who I thought would love what they were doing.” When asked how he picked good employees, Dixon stated, “I look for people who were smart and passionate. Sometimes they didn’t even have the skills for the job at the time, but I knew that if I didn’t get them, my competition would. Eventually we would find the right role for them and the company was always the better for it.” Currently Dixon serves as the Regional Director, Office of Diversity for Providence Health and Services (Oregon) located in Portland, Oregon.

PASSION

Geoff Hollister Long before rappers were selling cds out of the trunk of their cars, Geoff Hollister would climb into his little sunbeam, loaded with a trunk full of shoes and travel the state of Oregon. He was working closely with two aspiring entrepreneurs, his track coach Bill Bowerman and a young man named Phil Knight. Geoff only made two dollars per pair of shoes sold, but he didn’t care. “It was never about the money,” Stated Hollister, “we all had a passion for what we were doing.” Hollister spent the next thirty three years with Nike, watching it grow from a wild group of runners to a world wide cultural experience. In his wild tale of interactions with professional athletes like Steve Prefontaine, all the way up to Michael Jordan, he has laughed, cried and embraced every emotional lesson that following your passion can bring. After retiring from Nike, he found the time to piece these experiences together in a book he titled, Out of Nowhere, How Nike Marketed the Culture of Running. He currently travels world inspiring others to follow their passion.

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Health and Wellness

Yoga is for EVERYBODY by Reverend Wren Marvel

It doesn’t matter what your ﬁgure looks like or how old you are; anyone can do yoga! It helps with healthy living at any age; babies to elders, children to teens and young adults to middle age. Yoga is a simple philosophy based on proper exercise, strong breath, relaxation, a healthy diet, mindfulness and meditation. It is the ancient art of wellbeing. Although Hatha Yoga has only recently come into vogue in the west, it has been developing in India for thousands of years. The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “union.” Yoga teaches us how create this union by instilling the harmony evident in nature within the individual. It works to unite the body, mind and spirit through physical stretches and mental stimulation. Yoga is a complete system designed to maintain wellness through focusing on all aspects of health. The practice of yoga provides everything the body needs with poses designed to activate the practitioner. Touching each muscle and joint, yoga brings a balance of strength, ﬂexibility, relaxation, and stamina without negative impacts. It synthesisizes all the actions of an individual helping to correct habitual movements. In each class at The Lotus Seed, you will be lead through a routine of postures specially

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designed to release tension, strengthen muscles and tone the body. These postures help to relax the mind, improve concentration, stimulate circulation and oxygen flow, prevent illness and promote self-introspection. It is unfortunate that the yoga has become so expensive in this country, making it difficult for low-income practitioners to have exposure to this great knowledge. It is our birthright to access the health education that yoga offers. Between work, home and all of the demands and stresses of life, it’s easy to lose touch with our true selves. Yoga stimulates awareness and sensitivity in the practitioner so that they can remove the physical or psychological blocks that keep us from maintaining a healthy life. Through the particular techniques taught in Yoga, we can learn to calm the frenzy and get back in touch with ourselves. Patanjali, one of the great sages, said, “Yoga stills the fluctuations of the mind. Then the true self appears.”

Yoga Classes M-Th 10 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Drop In: $5-10 sliding scale Unlimited Membership $55/month $85/family May Intro Special ~ $25/ month

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Health and Wellness

Happy Feet for Diabetics by David Olver

In the days of the Ancient Greeks, Socrates used electric eels to treat arthritis. Fortunately for us, technology has evolved beyond such Flintstonian methods. We no longer have a Woolly Mammoth standing outside our kitchen window to use its trunk to hose off our dirty dishes. We have the dish washer. And we can leave the electric eels in the wild, now that we have Neurocare’s Electronic Muscle Stimulator. Fighting arthritis pain is but one of many of the medical beneﬁts of using the muscle stimulator.

fort), but puts out 440 volts, which is enough to contract muscles. It’s even enough to get disused muscles to move. The benefits of such stimulation are numerous, from my writer’s carpal tunnel syndrome, to diabetes and spinal cord injuries. As two-thirds of diabetics have some form of nerve damage, this treatment is especially exciting. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes affects 23.6 million Americans. The lack of circulation in many diabetics, along with impaired nerve sensation, is ultimately responsible for the 40-70,000 amputations performed on diabetics in America every year. When you can’t feel something, like your foot, you’re more likely to bump it on something and not notice the damage. A doctor I spoke with said he always checks the feet of diabetics, especially after he discovered a thumb tack stuck to the bottom of a woman’s foot. It had been there for weeks, and was infected. As less blood flows to an area in the body, it can lead to infection, sores, and other nasty things, like Gangrene. Neurocare’s EMS is a treatment to help prevent and cure these problems. The electric current from the EMS forces muscles to contract, like a super-charged nerve impulse. In this case, you’re not picking up this magazine, but just twitching. More powerful than the zap you get from licking a battery, and not dangerous like sticking a fork in the toaster, it’s strong enough to reach the small muscles of the foot, and other places. Blood flow increases, bringing a host of healing properties. Increased white blood cells and platelets, as well as an increased flow of lymphatic fluids, helps to prevent or reduce infections that can lead to limb removal.

“It was the only thing that did work, and is still working”

On ﬁrst examination, it appears to be the muscle-building gimmick with which Bruce Lee was enamored. Although similar to these common devices, Neurocare’s product has at least one key difference. It uses alternating current, or AC. The other muscle stimulators on the market use Direct Current, or DC. The DC stimulators hinder length and frequency of treatments because of the user’s pain threshold. In other words, they hurt. As most folks stop treatment at ten milliamps and 30 volts, it’s not enough to really get the muscles twitching.

A Clackamas, Oregon man, Pete Bargar, had scheduled the removal of one-third of his foot, due to diabetic complications. Almost a week before the removal, he started treatment with Neurocare’s product. Within a few days, the affected foot began to improve so much that he cancelled the appointment. A Podiatrist examined the foot after the Neurocare treatment and said the foot should not be amputated. The infection had been reduced, blood ﬂow had increased, and he started to feel the bottom of his foot again. Mr. Bargar described his experience with the EMS. “I was hoping something would help. It was the only thing that did work, and is still working.” Besides helping with infection and sores, Neurocare’s stimulator can reduce swelling, reverse neuropathy (nerve problems), increase range of motion, eliminate night pain, and other health problems diabetics’ face. It sounds pretty fantastic. I don’t know if diabetes spokesperson and actor Wilford Brimley knows about this product, but maybe he should. Don’t take my word for it, check it out yourself at www.neurocare.com.

Neurocare’s use of AC allows only 4.4 milliamps, (so much less discom-

Neurocare: providing breakthroughs in the treatments of diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and more. For More information contact us at (503) 371-6605 or TollFree at (877) 571-3599 or log onto www.neurocare.com Located at 6252 Skyline RD. South Salem, Oregon 97306 FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Health and Wellness

Book Remarks This issue of Flossin Magazine’s top picks for great reads are books that inspire us to push from our perceived limits to unending limits.

“We know that books are not a way of letting someone else think in our place: on the contrary, they are machines that provoke further thought.” Umberto Eco 1932.

Out of Nowhere: The Inside Story of How Nike Marketed the Culture of Running By Geoff Hollister

In his book, Hollister has managed to capture what passion and desire look like in writing. As you read, you might find your heart rate increasing with each page you finish. You can almost hear the pounding of runner’s feet and the panting of their breath, as the story takes you through the remarkable journey of how Nike came pouring sweat, tears and heart into our world. A page from Hollister’s book takes a comical approach to his first meeting with Phil Knight and seals his fate for a lifetime working around his first and greatest love, running. It reads, “After knocking on the door, Phil “Buck” Knight and I walked down to the corner Dairy Queen for a cheeseburger and a milkshake. He had a proposal for me. I would be allowed to travel the whole state of Oregon with a load of Onitsuks Tiger shoes and sell them directly out of the trunk of my car to coaches and athletes. He’d pay me $2 per pair and I’d have to pay my own expenses. We left the Dairy Queen and I distinctly remember paying for the hamburger and milkshakes, as Buck forgot his wallet. Back home, Mom stood in the corner of the kitchen eying Buck, I suspect trying to determine a level of trust. After he left with instructions that I could pick up my first inventory at his parents’ house in Portland, she unloaded her apprehension with, “you better get your teaching certificate, ‘cause this shoe thing just isn’t going to work.” The book is available for $19.95 US $21.95 Canada. HYPERLINK “http://www.m-m-sports.com” www.m-m-sports.com

The Key Poses of Hatha Yoga: Your Guide to Functional Anatomy in Yoga Volume II By Ray Long MD FRCSC featuring illustrations by Chris Macivor Dr. Long has studied Hatha yoga for over twenty years, travelling to India on numerous occasions to study intensively with B.K.S Lyengar and other leading yoga masters. His book is a physical truth and visual demonstration of how the body is impacted by the yoga poses. Technical in its approach, both novice yoga practices and experts can find ways to intensify their astangas. A more esoteric description of the book is best summed up in the forward page with a quote from the late Brazilian race car driver, Ayrton Senna, who was considered one of the greatest drivers in the history of Formula One. It reads, “On a given day, a given circumstance, you think you have a limit. And you then go for this limit and you touch this limit, and you think, ‘Okay, this is the limit.’ As soon as you touch this limit, something happens and you suddenly can go a little bit further. With your mind power, your determination, your instinct, and the experience as well, you can fly very high.” Anyone who touches their toes in a forward bend can attest to this statement when remembering their first attempt to touch their toes. The book is available for $42.00 plus shipping and handling HYPERLINK “http://www.bandhayoga. com” www.bandhayoga.com

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Where Naked Won’t Get You Noticed

BY FLOSSIN

There Is a time to be solemn and a time to celebrate. As a community, we learn to give the former its short, but due respect and stretch

the latter as long as possible.

Despite the current economically challenging times, there are still proms to attend, graduations and weddings to celebrate and overall small miracles of life that bring people together in thanks. Across the world, we gather for these merriment occasions and acknowledge that part of the joy we experience comes from those who are skilled at setting the ambiance. Dress the Drink (www.dressthedrink.com), specializes in making an otherwise ordinary celebration, extraordinary. Be it mocktails for teens, cocktails for adults they have made it their life’s passion to enhance moments of celebration. Forget environmentally hazardous plastic toothpicks and tacky umbrella chachskys, Dress the Drink takes creativity to a higher consciousness. Their flagship product is the Ultimate Beverage Garnishing Kit. It is wildly popular and a tremendous value, priced at $49.00 as this collection of ingredients will enhance over 150 drink combinations. This treasure trove of delectable luxury teases all of your senses and includes, edible silver flakes, crushed red hots, rock candy pebbles, crushed toffee, toasted coconut flakes and two outrageous flavors of rimming sugars. These ingredients have a significantly longer shelf life and need much less maintenance. Founder and CEO of Dress The Drink, Cindy McClure, is making waves with her products everywhere from VIP award shows, to swanky restaurant and lounges, graduation parties to the simple backyard get together. “We showcased our product at a Sex in the City Premiere in Las Vegas with Greygoose Vodka and our “dressed martini” outsold the “naked drink” three to one!” This is the kind of product differentiation can give any brands a significant competitive and creative edge. Ever the eye for detail McClure’s company tops their kit off with individual serving spoons, fashionable drawstring bags, serving suggestions and a product brochure stored in the lid. Blasé naked drinks and uninspired party throwers everywhere take heart, with dress the drink, stylish transformation is but a silver flake away.

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Music

SHIFT CHANGING THE GAME by Chris Ilagan

It was awkward from the start, as they walked into the Six Ultra Lounge in Salem, Oregon. This local rock band, Shift, stood out like a neon sign in a crowd of soul and hip-hop hopefuls at the Second Annual Flossin Media/Liquid Assets Rise Up Musical Talent Search auditions. “We were wondering if we were in the right place,” said Dan Bodi, lead vocalist of Shift. “Was somebody playing a joke on us? Everyone there was hip-hop.” It has not been easy for this band, which began its journey in 2001. After countless personnel changes, the pieces fell into place and they were ready for their climb to stardom.

“Shift made a statement with fearless determination and a spectacular performance.”

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Music

The Rise Up competition, which originally catered to the R&B/soul, hip-hop and rap genres, took a bold step in its evolution by incorporating the rock category. Despite their underdog status, Shift persevered doing what they do best. They simply ROCKED. One of the judges even made the comment, “I could have SEX to that music!” As Shift advanced to the grand finale, little did they know that they would change the dynamic of Rise Up forever. The grand finale on November 14, 2008 was an amplification of the auditions held throughout Oregon. There were a handful of participants in the rock category, but a majority of the finalists were on the urban side. In all ways, it looked like a hip-hop show down to the highly touted judges, Hollywood producer James DuBose and music producer Bob Robinson, who both had successful hiphop backgrounds. Shift sat in the corner of the Bossanova Ballroom as the performances went on. Quietly and patiently, they waited their turn and began wondering, how could they possibly win this contest? “They all had a lot of talent, which is what we expected to see,” states Wes Fisher, Shift’s drummer. While there were some stellar vocalists and electrified lyricists, Shift made a statement with fearless determination and a spectacular performance. They came prepared with an energetic following of Shift fans, which turned the place into a rock concert. When it was all said and done, all those years of hard work – the blood, sweat and tears – paid off. Shift proved to the judges, the crowd and most importantly themselves that they belonged in the competition, taking top honors. “It was a culmination of everything we have been trying to do,” explains Bodi.

“We have competed in a lot of battles, where we lost and felt we should have had them. When we won this one, we felt like we deserved it. We earned it, and to have somebody finally recognize that made us feel really good about what we do.” As they say, “to the victor go the spoils”. Included in the grand prize was a free trip to Tampa, Florida. Needless to say, the guys had a great time keeping in high spirits and taking a break to acknowledge their accomplishments. “It finally sank in that our hard work paid off,” said Bodi. “We were on an airplane, going to Florida and not paying a cent for it. That made all the pitfalls that we have been going through absolutely worth it.” Now, Shift is setting their sights on a bright future with a renewed sense of will power and a sharper focus. Bodi sums it up with some final words: “Adversity creates inspiration. It’s the adversity that makes you want to be different and continue to be different. Don’t conform to what everyone thinks you should be doing.” They are a prime example that reminds us we can overcome seemingly unsurpassable odds. We will never realize our true fate unless we try. We can achieve and overshoot our goals and aspirations. And as victors we too can enjoy the spoils. If you think you have what it takes, get prepared for the Third Annual Rise Up Musical Talent Search coming your way in November of 2009!

Shift from L to R:ßß Nick Madderom- Guitar, Wes Fisher-Drums, Dan Bodi- Vocals, Tony Necas-Bass, Damon Nelson-Guitar

Music

Soul P. Born and raised in Seattle, Soul P. has been through the struggle and is ready to share his musical vision with the world. Growing up in The Yesler Terrace neighborhood, Soul P. came face-to-face with the harsh realities of the streets at an early age. These experiences influenced his music, giving Soul P.’s lyrics and rhyming an authentic flavor. Soul P. began his solo career by independently releasing two critically acclaimed albums, Simpy Soul and The Soul Affect. Both albums are noted for their gritty street-influenced production and meaningful lyrical content. These records established Soul P. as a serious contender in the underground music scene. In the summer of 2005, Soul P. recorded the street banger “5 Fingers” for a prominent underground mixtape series helmed by DJ Morphiziz. This project led to a close working relationship with Beatmart Recordings, a young Nashville-based hip-hop collective. Soul P. eventually signed an official record deal with Beatmart Recordings which resulted in the debut of Soul P.’s album, The Premiere. During this time, Soul P. started his own label called King’s Empire. Soul P is without a doubt a hip-hop afficianado with his roots from the streets. As a spiritual man, he also keeps a deep personal faith in God. In his own words, Soul P. explains. “My relationship with God is one of the main messages in The Premiere. I want people to understand that after everything I’ve been through, that album was like my message of hope to those who’ve dealt with their own struggles. To those who are going through something, keep believing ’cause you will have a premiere too.” His relentless work ethic and intense flavor grabbed the attention of Liquid Assets Recordz. Within months of inking a deal with Liquid Assets, Soul P. was hard at work on a mixtape Back at it Again including hits such as “West Coast Blues” and “Money Money Money.” His lyrics cut to the chase over pounding rhythms, Soul P. waxes poetics about life on the streets of the Northwest. As listeners clamor for more, Soul P. and Liquid Assets are already preparing Soul P.’s CD release, The Layover in the summer of 2009. “I’ve been through a lot,” declares Soul P. “Now I’ve got to go for the top. There is a huge need for creativity in the genre right now. I want to help change the idea of how it should be done. Liquid Assets and I are here to make hot, hot music. I want the world to know that you can’t put hip-hop into one little box.”

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Music

Twisted Insane Twisted Insane is not a man you want to play games with. Some people might say that he has passed the point of no return; his persona is a combination of hard work and plain insanity. Don’t try and stare Twisted Insane down, you are guaranteed to flinch first. “I’m lethal, I’m Twisted Insane,” he laughs, and you can see a flash of steel in his eyes. Hip-hop music has been a natural pursuit for Twisted Insane since a young age. Born and raised Michael Johnson in the southeastern neighborhoods of San Diego, it wasn’t long before he traded in his childhood identity for his powerful alter-ego. Twisted spent years perfecting his lightning-fast verbal delivery until he possessed one of the quickest flows in the game of hip-hop. You could also say that his music possessed him; there was never a doubt in his mind about what he wanted to do with his life. Twisted Insane’s music is a reflection of his personality. One hit of his music will leave you reeling from the aftershock and still craving more. Over hypnotic West Coast beats, Twisted spits rapid-fire tales of madness and mayhem. His tongue is the automatic rifle and his words are the ammunition. This potent arsenal attracts followers. His tireless efforts have landed him in front of crowds well over 3,000 screaming fans; opening for acts like Bone Thugs N Harmony and CBo. Liquid Assets Recordz, an upstart label hailing from Portland, quickly signed Twisted on to their team, eager to work with his explosive talent. Before signing to Liquid Assets, Twisted Insane independently released the appropriately entitled album Shoot For The Face. This killer debut features his signature anthem, “Twisted Insane”. Over menacing strings and a plodding bass line, he triumphantly declares his entry into the hip-hop arena, instantly setting himself up as a viable contender. Twisted Insane and Liquid Assets are currently in the lab, hard at work on the re-release of Monster In The Dark featuring hit single “Stack it Up.” Due to drop summer 2009, Monster In The Dark promises listeners the full fury they have come to expect with a touch of the mainstream. From the psychedelic “Evergasing Gobstopper”, to the frenzied “Khakis And Househoes”, Twisted Insane doesn’t pull any punches. His West Coast roots can be clearly heard on tracks like “The Gang”, a blunted cut that transports the audience to the ruthless streets of San Diego. His unique style can be felt on every track. When it comes to hip-hop, it’s either certified insane or it’s not. There’s no compromise. “Monster In The Dark is about me versus my inner demons.”

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Music

Lil’ Syck Over the course of his career, hip-hop artist, Jon Jordan, A.K.A “Lil’ Syck,” has shared the stage with some amazing talent. Performing for crowds of 7,000 and greater, he has opened for the grammy award winning group, Bone Thugs & Harmony, multi-platnum recording artist Young Buck, the Ying Yang Twins, Jadakiss, E-40, Spice-1, Cool Nutz, Twisted Black, Tum-Tum, Big Tuck, and Southern Soulcat, just to name a few. “My swagger is polished.” tells Lil’ Syck. “Traveling all over the nation has helped me keep my chucks and Air Force 1’s laced. It has allowed me to stay a step ahead of the competition. My upbringing made me more business oriented than the average musical artist.” Born and raised in San Diego, Lil’ Syck was largely influnced by his father, a film director and his mother, a gospel singer. After college, he spent a few years as a teaching aide for special needs children, but continued to feel the calling of his passion: hiphop. Heeding this call, Lil’ Syck began to promote his music and from 2002 to 2007, he released a total of four albums, moving over five thousand copies without the help from a major label. In 2004 his street anthem, “I’m a Hustler,” garnered notable respect via Sirius and Internet radio stations. This hustle peaked the interest of Liquid Assets Recordz and Lil’ Syck formed a strategic aliance with the label in 2007. The mixed tape, Strapped Wit Game, Volume 1 was released in Winter 2008, followed by his much anticipated Strapped Wit Game, Volume 2 “Lost in the Matrix,” recently dropped in May 2009, available now. This summer just might give Lil’ Syck the biggest exposure of his career to date. With the release of his new CD, Laced And Polished will come the video and hit single “Froze Wrist” featuring Soul P. Laced And Polished includes the intense street anthem “Savaged Goon,” and the classic feel good summertime barbeque banger, “Could It Be.” He also mixes R & B into the grown and sexy joints, “Fly Like Me,” and “Don’t You Say No,” songs are sure to resonate with the mature hip-hop fans. “Much of my music is for the sexy women who love hip-hop. Whatever the ladies like the fellas are sure to follow.”

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Bending Light by Dan Townshend

Combining the hard-hitting rhythms of African American rap and Latino legend, the Matador, lowriders take a form resplendent in swirling bursts of color and unexpected movement. “Bajito y Sauvecito” (“Low and Slow”) has long been the rallying call of the Chicano lowriders cruising up and down Whittier Boulevard in East Los Angeles. This call has resonated through the hip hop movement, not only in America, but, world wide as well. Today, the lowriding scene is diverse, infusing many different cultures, vehicle makes and visual styles. Considered one-off master pieces, lowriders comprise an art form requiring the skill of a master craftsman and the vision of an artist-symbolizing the artisan’s take on the hip hop culture on his part of the globe. The beauty in these machines is more than

the dazzling finishes, as every part of the vehicle is disassembled, examined, repaired or remanufactured before any finish is applied. The mechanical demands of hydraulic engineering must be addressed and incorporated into the design as well as a modified electrical system, which is required to provide the energy to power the hydraulic pumps. The most sought after candidates for restorations include vehicles from the 1930s-1960s while newer Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and Pontiac Grand Prix and their 1973-77 relatives are also popular. The very essence of lowridng, and the most sought after restoration candidates are the 1961-64 Chevrolet Impalas. This car defines the art. Walking through Vicious Custom Auto with owner Aaron Vickery, it is easy to imagine how the investment in some of these lowriders can run in excess of $100,000. AV, as he likes to be called, started with a single car garage ten years ago, working his way to the multiple projects in his Fairview based shop today. ‘Show winning restorations start here’ he tells me as his hands absently trace the lines of a restored and finished frame. ‘Factory welds are ground smooth, metal straightened, damaged areas replaced or rebuilt, then we apply the finish.’ This is the mantra that applies to the entire restoration: find, restore and build better then new. AV is nonchalant as he walks me through the steps required in building one of his cars; as if we all have the skill to totally disassemble a G–

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

series G.M., let alone transforming each part into a master piece in it’s own right; metal flake and clear coat sparkling in a deep luster. It is a lot of work for a part of the car that is seen by few, but that doesn’t faze AV. After a moment of reflection, he continues, stating that he hopes his cars are driven, the restorations are built with that in mind. I cringe a bit thinking of how a little road rash could seriously ruin your day in a car like that.. Catching my eye, a Chevy finished in a deep irradiant blue metal flake reveals another finishing technique, referred to as an L.A. style pattern. “A finish like this, with custom graphics, pin stripping and such might take upwards to three months to prep.” On top of that, he tells me, “putting it all together in the paint booth can be an 18 hour marathon in itself”. The result of his labors are apparent: the finish deep and rich with the illusion of depth complete enough to sink your hand through the metal all the way up to your elbow. It’s not for the faint of heart, as a job like this may put you back $10,000 or so. Not all of AV’s work incorporates frame up restoration, his finishing skills are in demand for a wide variety of pieces, such as custom

choppers and helmets for the Rolls Royce of the air, the multimillion dollar Gulfstream G-3 executive jets. Painting transcontinental jets cannot be easy I suggest. A slight shrug of his shoulders, ”Not a problem”, he states. I am struck again with his quiet conﬁdence and modesty, an artist completely at home with his medium. Time passes and with each question answered, ten more rise up to take their place. I check out the small block Chevy, tricked out with chrome and accessories and spotless enough to eat off of; and wheels, small gold or chrome spoke, Astro Supremes, Cragers, Tru spokes, Crowns, Daytons and Zeniths all with 5.20 tires-able to tuck beneath the wheel well and allow the lowest ride height. I ask about the hydraulics, 2 pumps or 4, the batteries, the custom interiors, and more radical changes-scissor and suicide doors. AV patiently answers my questions; schooling me, taking me for a ride through hip hop-Northwest style. If you live for hip hop, have the bucks and want a lowrider, you don’t need to travel to L.A. to ﬁnd one, give AV a call and get on his list. You will have the ride of your life.

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Education

Liv Strong By Fawn Aberson

Photo by Laura Domela Make-up and hair by Tabiba Styles Sexy and soulful, Liv Warﬁeld is one of the most polished recording artists to come out of the Paciﬁc Northwest. Born into an athletic family and a track star in her own right, Liv’s powerful voice might not have ever been heard had she not dared to break formation and pursue a singing career. Her album, Embrace Me, pays homage to this decision. “I want people to embrace the real me, the one who’s been hiding for so long. I come from a long line of athletes, where there were no artistic people. Music changed my life. It showed me how to be a woman; it showed me how to express myself being a woman; it made me a lot stronger as a person. As a writer and lyricist, it opened doors and opened my mind.”

I’ve been lucky to have several in my life; two that come to mind are recording artist Linda Hornbuckle and the CEO of Rumbleﬁsh, Paul Anthony. These two changed my life.”

Regarded as a role model in her own right, Liv knows how important it is to have mentors. She shared with us some of the things she values in a mentor. “I look for a person who has respect and humility and most importantly trust. A mentor should be someone that’s patient and willing to take the time to listen to you. They help correct yourself or the mistakes you’ve made without creating judgment.

Working with Prince has strengthened her conﬁdence and open up amazing frontiers, including performing with the artist on his farewell tribute to Jay Leno as The Tonight Show host. Liv is moving forward on touring and new projects but always keeps a particular quote of advice in her head, “Crowd your life with positive like-minded people and you will see the reﬂection of yourself”.

FLOSSIN’ MAGAZINE VOL. 9 NO. 1

Living strong and living her dream, Liv made huge strides this past year when she got the call of a lifetime to sing backup for musical icon, Prince. “I was referred for the job by a good friend. When I got the chance to audition in front of him I was trippin out. It was like going through a Spike Lee movie where everything is moving in slow motion. When I was done and got the job, I thought ‘oh my God I can’t believe this is really happening.’”

Vocals: Amanda Price Jenni Price Guitar: Josh Wuerth Bass: Chris Chard Drums: Rod Nightingale

Acoustic Minds

voted Band of Year at the Portland Music Awards myspace.com/acousticminds new record to be released on iTunes in June 2009

Stepping Stone Cafe

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Sit anywhere that’s clean! Just remember when you show up -- customer service can’t cover shoddy food. And when you have food like ours, served ala Stepping Stone Café attitude, well, let’s just say that we’re confident you’ll be dreaming of the next chance you can get to tear into our cookin’. You’ll love our food and the space we’re in. Hours of Operation:

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