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CYHMAGAZINE.COM

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HOLIDAY/WINTER 2007

THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE THAT CELEbRATEs YOuR HERITAGE

EDDIE LEVERT Reflects on the life of His Son a Year Later

HERITAGE LIST 2007 Move to Action: People Using their lives to Impact and Make a Change

Maurice Green: The 2008 Olympics, Marion Jones, and his Desire to Help Children us $3.75 CANADA $4.95

Holiday Delights

Home Decor, Food, and Fashion

Jena 6: A Chronology of a Conflict

Genocide of the Shan: Southeast Asia’s Dirty Little Secret

VIsIT us AT WWW.CYHMAGAZINE.COM www.cyhmagazine.com

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2007

features cyh

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ontents S P E C I A L H O L I D AY SECTION: Holiday Delights

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Home Decor, Food, and Fashion

E AT U R E S

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Maurice Green A True Champion, Running With Pride

46 Jena 6

Chronology of a Conflict

49 Heritage List People Making a Difference

Asia’s 61 Southeast Dirty Little Secret Genocide of the Shan

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O V E R

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Sky Blue Pinstripe Button up Shirt: H&M. Cardigan Vest: American Apparel.

White Skinny Tie: Vintage. Ring: Models own.

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Gerald Levert: Eddie’s Got Your Back On the cover: Eddie and Gerald Levert Cover Photo courtesy ©DwightCarter.Com

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C U L T U R E & H E R I TA G E Happenings 13 Heritage A Human Rights National Convention Heineken Independent Achievement Award

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Your Heritage 16 Celebrate People sharing how they celebrate their heritage and culture and what’s important to them.

LIFESTYLE

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Spotlight

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On The Rise

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Health

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Beauty

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Fashion

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Style

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Book Fair

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Food File

Denise Boutte

Jabari Gray: Rising Star

Breast Cancer: A Journey Of Hope Binge Eating: Are You At Risk?

Beauty Tips

Celebrate Autumn

Styling For The Sexes

Give A Gift That Inspires

Recipes For The Soul

EYE ON WEALTH

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IN EVERY ISSUE

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05 Memory

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Are You Financially Fit? A Checklist For Shaping Up Your Personal Balance Sheet

FHASecure The New Refinancing Product

06 Letters

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08 Editorial 09 Contributors 11 Uplifiting

SPORTS

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Baseball, Courage, Country

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The Intuitive Athlete

The “Make-Up” of Kendry Morales

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FALL 2007

Ene D. Taylor Publisher/Editorial Director

Dr. Amiso George Editor at Large

Martina Marriette Contributing Editor

Fran Sherman Creative Director

Donise Lemnah Fashion Coordinator

CONTRIbuTING WRITERs Leeza Davis Deborah Burke Deric Samuel Iyalla Walcourt, African Bureau Shelia Highsmith Geoffrey Harper Jonnyba Abili: Intern

CONTRIbuTING PHOTOGRAPHER Gerald Harper

ADVERTIsING Darice Laffoon Marketing & Advertising Director Armenious Patterson, Jr. Advertising Consultant 404 372-1458

PubLIC RELATIONs Nicole Newsum M2O Email: nicolem320@gmail.com

subsCRIPTION subscribe@cyhmagazine.com 1800 399-0823 Mailing Address CYH Magazine.com PO BOX 7242 Orange CA 92863 Website: www.cyhmagazine.com CYH Magazine is a publication of CYH Media Inc. 714 537 0293 Fax 714 281 5981 Copyright 2007 CYH Magazine. All rights reserved. CYH magazine is a quarterly Magazine published

by CYH Media Inc. Those sending manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other materials to CYH Magazine for consideration should not send originals unless specifically requested to do so by CYH MEDIA INC. in writing. CYH Media assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, manuscripts or other materials including but not limited to drawings or transparencies. unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other materials must be accompanied by self addressed overnight delivery, postagepaid envelope. Reproduction in any manner in whole or in part is prohibited.

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e do this in memory of the African men, women, and children who died enslaved while crossing the middle passage...

CYH will always dedicate its efforts to You.

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“Action!”

Sex Trafficking Slave Trade ON THE

By Deborah Burke

Photograph By Stephanie Hager

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www.cyhmagazine.com

A Filmmaker Takes Action on the sex trafficking slave trade I had no idea how little I knew about sex trafficking slave trade until I read “A Filmmaker Takes Action on the sex trafficking slave trade.” I always thought that sex trafficking does not happen in the United State. I am shocked to find out that it does. Thank you for giving me this knowledge.

Emily Garnier Gary, Indiana

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? We always love to hear from you and encourage you to submit your opinion.

Address your letters to: Letters, CYH Magazine P.O. box 7242 Orange, CA 92863. send email to letters@cyhmagazine.com.

Please include your name and phone number.

Letters chosen may be edited for length and clarity. Al submissions become the property of Eritein, Inc. Letters will not be returned.

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Mission Impossible It is really exciting to know that people like Michael Cory Davies and Aaron Cohen do what they do. What an incredible read, “Mission Impossible” brought new awareness and appreciation on life. Their commitment to bring hope to hopeless children is to be applauded. We should all find it in ourselves to rescue children in need and stop trafficking.

Tina Thomas Macon, Atlanta

A Precious And Courageous New Beginning I was deeply touched by the article “A Precious And Courageous New Beginning” Her story resonate with many young girls put in that situation. I commend her for sharing the details of her story.

James Peterson Los Angeles

A Real Estate Mogul I appreciate the story on “A Real Estate Mogul.” I thank Mr. R Donahue Peebles for sharing how he broke the glass ceiling in the real estate business to become successfulPassion.

I will apply his principles to see how effective they are.

Kiada Lawrence Los Angeles

Taking Care Of People I have really enjoyed this issue. It has broadened our worldviews and I’m gradually seeing things clearer. As a black man, I have always found it difficult to have any interest in what happens outside America but since I started reading Celebrate Your Heritage Magazine, I am beginning to see why they say, the world is small and what happen in other parts of the world can affect us here in America. Reading the “Cursed Oil” in Nigeria has given me a different perspective and I hope that this Black Country will rise up and take care of its people.

Kimberly Massy Texas

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sk him what he’s most passionate with Face to Face Bulgaria are, and why you are existing on about and he’ll look you deep in (www.facetoface.bg), an anti-traf- this planet, you are always going to the eye and say, “humanity.” ficking non profit organization, to be a victim, even if you are not a Michael Cory Davis, 29, is an create his directorial debut Svet- victim of trafficking.” independent filmmaker, Holly- lana’s Journey. Michael’s eyes Back in Hollywood, Svetlana rewood actor and activist who wants brighten, “It was a Godsend. It was ceived exposure from CNN, ABC, to expose the dark underworld of like the Spirit said, ‘I’m gonna NBC and KTLA. It won “Best sex trafficking to the world. show you your true purpose Short Subject” at the 2005 HollyKnown as modern day slavery, sex through this movie if you allow wood Film Festival. Some auditrafficking is when a person is yourself to be selfless.’” ence members were surprised, taken across borderlines and used The film struck a chord with the unable to pigeon-hole the bold, to perform commercial sex acts by nation as 2.7 million people, al- eloquent black filmmaker, “They force, fraud or coercion. 27 million most half of Bulgaria’s population, may have thought I could make people are trafficked around the watched a 40-minute short of Svet- Shaquanda’s Journey but not Svetworld annually. But, only four lana being gruesomely cap- lana’s Journey,” he laughs. years ago, Michael didn’t even know this epidemic existed.

“If you don’t value yourself, if you don’t know who His eye-opening experience began in you are, and why you are existing on this planet, 2003, when he was you are always going to be a victim, even if you hired by the Sci-Fi channel to shoot are not a victim of traffickiing.”

“Raptor Island” in Sofia, Bulgaria. Success hit and he became an instant tured, tortured, manipulated and The movie is currently being celebrity. That’s when he met the raped by the pimp couple who used by the FBI to train agents on girl who changed his life, 13-year claimed her. Michael then toured what international sex trafficking old Svetlana, who was kidnapped through schools; role-playing the actually looks like. and sold into prostitution. When trafficker/victim and delivering a she told him her story he was hor- powerful message “to scare kids Cargo: Innocence Lost rified. “I took a stance within my- straight” from being drawn into But sex trafficking isn’t only hapself,” he says firmly, “Something this ugly world by their “lust for a pening in far-away Bulgaria. Durneeds to be done.” After a stint in better life” and hunger for valida- ing a national tour of Svetlana’s the States as a Hollywood bouncer, tion.

Journey, Michael was shocked to Michael flew back to Bulgaria “If you don’t value yourself,” he find it’s thriving in America. (with little money) and worked said, “if you don’t know who you Houston, Texas is “the sex capi-

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f you don’t stand for something, chances are you will fall for anything.

I have always stood for the struggle to end all forms of slavery and have always admired those committed to using their lives to help others. As one who has joined the struggle to eliminate human trafficking and the horrors associated with it, it pained me to learn that under our nose, not far from Southern University, Louisiana, where I attended school, the specter of Jim Crow still exists in the form of a lynching tree. Thousands of miles away, in Southeast Asia, brutal lynchings, more horrifying than we have seen in recent times have become so blasé that they are not even newsworthy.

Have we become so comfortable and disassociated from the horrors of segregation in America that we believe it could never happen again? Has the world found this horrible segment of our historical past to be the model for terrorism? I wonder. That’s why we put together a sobering photo journal of the march on Jena, The Chronology of a Conflict (page 46). Stand up for stopping the lynching that have become so passé in Myanmar (formerly Burma). You may ask, why far away Myanmar? Well, what you may not know is that Myanmar produces a third of the drugs that destroy some of our inner city youth in America. Read Genocide of the Shan: Southeast Asia's Dirty Little Secret (page 61).

Or perhaps you would like to make a difference in other ways like the people in our special 2007 annual Heritage List (page 49). It’s inspiring and encouraging knowing that these people are using their positions and knowledge to transform our world.

And, speaking of inspiration, we are proud to feature a real down home interview with Eddie Levert, of the O’Jays who opened our eyes to what it truly is to love a son. A year after the death of his son Gerald (page 66), we caught up with Eddie at this year’s Heineken Independent Achievement Award Ceremony. Eddie and his wife were a joy to talk with.

And as you read on, don’t forget our Holiday Delights (page 26) and for more inspiration, pick up one of the books in our Bookfair section (page 48). Get a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, relax and have a happy reading as you develop a passion for change.

And this holiday season, let’s make an obligation to our humanity, our communities, our friends and most importantly, to our families and ourselves. Make it a point to be other peoples center and remember, “You are a collection of what you love.” [Quote from writer, R. Lee Walker]

from the editor

Let’s DO this!

contributors cyh

The unquenchable love for a son continues even after death. In Eddie Levert Reflects on the life of His Son a Year Later, page 66, our own D. Martina talks with Eddie on love, fatherhood and his memories of Gerald. When asked what he thought was the greatest gift he had given his son he replied, "I gave him life." And what a life he gave! Martina also interviewed His Excellency Prince Hso-Khan Pha (pronounced Sur Khan Fa) of Yawnghwe, head of State of the Shan State, Burma in the article, Genocide of the Shan: Southeast Asia's Dirty Little Secret, page 61. He talked about the atrocities inflicted on the people, especially women and children.

Our contributing photographer Gerald Harper did not know what to expect when he arrived in Jena, Louisiana (Chronology of a Conflict, page 46). The recent justice march involved Mychal Bell, one of six African-American students charged in connection with a school fight and the first one to be convicted. To his surprise, an estimated 50,000 protesters attended the march.

Gerald has been taking photos for the National Baptist Voice Magazine and numerous local and national newspapers.

On page 18, Geoffrey Harper lets us in on what makes Maurice Green tick. In his article, A True Champion, Running with Pride, Geoffrey talks with Maurice about what matters to him in Track and Field, Marion Jones and the duping situation. An avid writer, Geoffrey’s true passion is sports. He is interested in the psycho-social and economics impact that sports have on society and culture.

Our freelance writer, Shelia Higsmith on page 54, gives us a peek into the life of a young man who has persevered to make his dream a reality while helping others. Shelia lives in New Jersey and enjoys working with children.

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uplifting cyh

To cultivate the sense of the beautiful is one of the most effectual ways of cultivating an appreciation of the divine goodness.

—Christain Bovee

If you have anything really valuable to contribute to the world, it will come through the expression of your own personality…

--Bruce Barton.

Begin with the end in mind We are more in need of a vision or destination And less in need of a map Leaders create their own destiny by following their internal compass.

They make their life a mission, not just a career.

--Anonymous

The courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest to the grateful and appreciating heart.

–Henry Clay www.cyhmagazine.com

Boutte

spotlight

Denise

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ON HER BREAKTHROUGH ROLE

By Leesa Davis

Denise Boutte is still amazed by the kudos she’s received since playing the role of Trina in the Tyler Perry movie, Why Did I get Married?, based on the play of the same title. “My manager submitted me for the part. The casting director called me in for an audition and I was shocked when Tyler Perry was sitting there in the room” says the Maurice, Louisiana native.

Boutte never imagined she would be a face on the big screen starring alongside a mega-talented cast. Shortly after graduating from Louisiana State University, the starlet worked as an account executive in Dallas, TX where she represented brands such as Fossil and Pampers. It was during her time scheduling photo shoots for clients that Boutte was asked to participate as a model and she soon developed an appetite for on-camera work. While still working as an account executive, Boutte eventually signed with a talent agency. She immediately began to book print ads in addition to landing appearances in commercials for the Texas Lottery.

“It got to a point where I had to make a decision. I liked what I was doing as an account executive but I didn’t love it” says Boutte. Determined to be taken seriously as a performer, the budding actress took a few acting courses in Dallas and shortly after, moved to Los Angeles. Boutte has since appeared in several episodes of the daytime drama series, Days of Our Lives in addition to

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the well received independent film, Sister’s Keeper.

Boutte’s breakthrough role as Trina, the home wrecker in Why Did I get Married? is evidence of her undeniable onscreen presence and versatility.

A Southern belle at heart, Boutte is happily married and is the total opposite of the character Trina. For Christmas, it’s routine for Boutte and her husband to spend time with family in Louisiana. “My brother and his kids, we all go to Maurice. I love to cook stuffed catfish. My mom is also an amazing cook,” Boutte gushes.

A woman with a big heart, Boutte recently hosed the Arc Mid-Cities’ 55th Anniversary where she was Mistress of Ceremony. The ArcMid-Cities is a non-profit organization that provides services for developm e n t a l l y disabled citizens.

With a magnetic personality and gusto for her craft, Boutte has clearly demonstrated that tenacity and selfbelief certainly pay off. CYH

heritage happenings cyh

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a human rights national convention 2

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1: (from left) Dr. Touya Moua, Hmong Leader Gen. Nguyen Khanh, Lawyer Nguyern Khac Chinh, Tony Nguyen Huu Chanh, Aaro Cohen, Jim Kraus, General Pichai, The Khan Prince, Admiral Lam Nguon Tanh

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2: Mr. Kerry Decker, Rapha House Minister 3: Gen. Nguyen Khanh 4: (front) Dr. Toyer Moua 5: Gen. Pichai and Wife 6: Nguyen Dai Ngu, one of the MC’s

Photos courtesy Gerald Harper

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heineken independent achievement award 1: (from left) back row: Jason Orr - Heineken Independent Achievement Award Committee member, Eddie Levert - Award Recipient from Gerald Levert, No i.d. Award Recipient, Antonio “AD THE VOICE” Degado - Award recipient, Madison bedard - Heineken Rep front row: Kenny burns - Heineken Independent Achievement Award Committee member, Raheem DeVaughn Heineken Independent Achievement Award Committee member 2: Jason Orr and Glender Haskin 3: Male model Marcus Hill and friend Paula 4: Mrs. Felton 5: No i.d. - Producer, Heineken Independent Award recipient 6: T.K. - producer statik Entertainment, Antonio “AD THE VOICE” Delgado Award Recipient 7: Eddie Levert (accepted award for his son, Gerald Levert), No i.d. - Award Recipient Antionio “AD THE VOICE” Delgado Award Recipient, J. Carter Award Recipient W. Elington Felton

Photos courtesy CYH Magazine

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on the rise cyh

Jabari Gray:

By Leesa Davis

In Swahili the name “Jabari” means valiant and that’s exactly what the 32 year-old Jabari Gray demonstrated when he left his full-time job as an attorney to pursue a career as a recording artist and actor. Born to Jamaican parents, Gray spent some of his childhood in Kingston, Jamaica.

Gray got his start in acting through a television commercial and has since had recurring roles in both Guiding Light and Law &Order Special Victims Unit. His television and film accolades also include independent films. “My ultimate goal is to do major motion picture work as well but I love it all. And everything has its place and its purpose.”

In his spare time, the 6’2” actor and model enjoys mentoring family and friends and training in mixed martial arts.

Photos courtesy Jabari Gray

RISING STAR

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elebrate YOUR HERITAGE HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE YOUR HERITAGE? I celebrate my heritage by staying grounded in who I am, and where my ancestors came from. I read magazines, newspapers, and watch the news both local and abroad to keep abreast of all that is going on in Latin America. I am a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Alumni and an Alancia Latina Excelencia award winner. I want to make it a point in my life to visit the ruins of my ancestors; the Inca ruins of Manchu Picchu in Peru, the Mayan ruins of the Yucatan, the museums in Puerto Rico where one can find ancient artifacts of the Puerto Rican Taino Indians, and so on. I plan to make it a point that when I start my family, teach my children who they are and where they came from. I plan to ensure that they understand the Spanish language fluently and are proud of who they are and the heritage they so wonderfully inherited.

WHAT DOES THE WORD HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? To me the word heritage means something that comes or belongs to one by reason of birth. I feel that I inherited my culture and feel honored to be Latina!

WHAT NOTABLE FIGURE/CELEBRITY BEST REPRESENTS YOUR HERITAGE? There are many Latinos that I look up to and admire. There are far too many notable figures that I feel represent the Latino heritage and culture to name them all, but at the same time naming just a few would be an injustice to all the others.

Kim Castillo, Domincan and Puerto Rican, age 22

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE YOUR HERITAGE? There is no actual way to celebrate the Haitian heritage except through traditions that are practiced in Haiti as well as by some older generation elders here in the U.S.

WHAT DOES THE WORD HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? Being Haitian represents pride, community, and humility and independence

WHAT NOTABLE FIGURE/CELEBRITY BEST REPRESENTS YOUR HERITAGE? Toussaint L'ouverture, the first leader of the Haitian Revolution Spencer Casseus, Haitian, 32

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE YOUR HERITAGE AND DISTINGUISH YOUR HERITAGE FROM OTHERS? When I was younger, I celebrated my African heritage by wearing, reading anything and everything "African" however, as I got older, I began to understand that Africa is in how we treat each other. I try to celebrate what it means to be African by how much love I can express in the face of hostility.

WHAT DOES THE WORD HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? Heritage to me means your root and how much you respect the past while looking forward to the future.

WHAT NOTABLE FIGURE/CELEBRITY BEST REPRESENTS YOUR HERITAGE? I have to say that my dad, Dr. Amatokwu, Ezozo and right now Jerry John Rawlings, and Nana Rawlings, former President Montiero, Ambassador Barnes and Dr. Barnes are great representatives of Africa.

Buashie Amatokwu, African

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HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE YOUR HERITAGE? I speak with my grandmother about her time as a child to try to better understand my lineage and heritage.

WHAT DOES THE WORD HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? It means where I came from.

WHAT NOTABLE FIGURE/CELEBRITY BEST REPRESENTS YOUR HERITAGE? All Puerto Ricans doing something positive.

Gina Torres, GTorres Media Prsident, age 23

If you have a moment... let us know how you celebrate your heritage.

What is your passion? What is the most beautiful thing about your heritage? What is your greatest accomplishment?

Let us know how you Celebrate Your Heritage, what your heritage means to you and what notable figure best exemplifies your heritage.

Email us at heritage@cyhmagazine.com with your name, age, city where you live and a photo of yourself.

cyh Magazine Presents

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Understanding the African Diaspora: What Divides Us? A Serious Look at African and African American Relationships

ou are invited to participate in the 1st Annual Conference on the status of African and African American Relations in 2008, Los Angeles, California. (Date to be announced). We are looking for papers, articles, and speakers who can express new and feasible ideas for building better relationships.

Some of the issues to be addressed:

• universities that seek to enroll black immigrants instead of African Americans • How we view and relate to each other professionally, personally, and sexually • Doing business with Africans, Caribbeans, and others of the Africa Diaspora • Overcoming stereotypes Deadline for submission of proposals is February 8, 2008. selected articles will be considered for publication in a future issue of CYH Magazine.

Check out our web site at www.cyhmagazine.com for more conference details.

Maurice Green

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A TRUE CHAMPION, RUNNING WITH PRIDE

By Geoffrey Harper

i Photography by Stephen Dummit www.stephendummit.com Art Direction: Morgan Pharo First Photo Assistant: Jenette Paredes

n the world of track and field to be the best is to be the fastest. Not many people can actually say, with any validity, that they are or were ever the fastest in the world. One person however can — Maurice Greene.

Maurice Greene was the hero of the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia. It was here where he reached the apex of his sport by winning the gold medal in the 100 meters and 4 by 100 meter relay. The year prior Maurice officially earned the title of “fastest man in the world” by setting a world record with an unbelievable time of 9.79 seconds in the 100 meter dash. An elite level track and field performer for the past decade, Maurice has made the 2008 Summer Olympics in China his goal. He is also driven by his commitment to give back to kids.

Maurice has posted more sub-10 second times in the 100 meters than any person in the history of the sport. This is an unbelievable example of his sheer speed and consistency. He is truly an athletic anomaly because he has performed at such a high level for so long. When I asked him what his secret to success was, he replied, “… remaining humble, having a detailed plan of action to stick to, good work ethic and being persistent.”

The youngest of four, Maurice grew up in Kansas City. His older brother Ernest was his role model and the driving force that helped him to develop his passion for track and field. Ernest was more than just a big brother. He taught Maurice how to think, act, walk, and talk like a world-class athlete. Ernest knew that Maurice had the potential to be great, but in order for him to maximize his ability he would have to teach him as only a big brother could. Ernest took Maurice to all of his track meets as a youth, let him attend workouts, and even introduced him to his first track coach, Al Hobson.

Hobson helped mold Maurice into the person he has become. His tutelage ran deeper than training the supremely gifted Maurice to explode out of the starting blocks. Hobson served as a role model and mentor for Maurice since he began coaching him at the age of 8. He introduced Maurice to the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), a mainstay organization in American athletics. This group instilled competitive spirit, developed his passion for track and field, and induced him to his current desire, to give back to children.

Maurice has made the most out of his God-given ability and superior work ethic.

One of the most impressive things about him is his spotless reputation in a sport that has been under immense scrutiny as a result of doping allegations and confessions.

On the heels of Marion Jones' admission of guilt for using steroids, the sport’s credibility has taken a major hit.

One of the most impressive things about him is his spotless reputation in a sport that has been under immense scrutiny as a result of doping allegations and confessions.

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When asked about Marion Jones’ steroid use and her alleged lies, Maurice answered, “Her records need to be adjusted. Any time an athlete cheats to gain an unfair advantage, prior awards or records have to be corrected.” Maurice is so passionate about his sport, that he takes reports, allegations, and innuendos of rampant cheating as a personal attack. He knows that everything he has achieved and earned in life has occurred as a result of hard work, sweat, and sacrifice.

Maurice is not a proponent of ‘3 strikes’ and you’re out of the sport. He believes that if a person is ever caught cheating to gain an unfair advantage, they should be banned from the sport for life after the first offense. Maurice does not feel however, that steroids are rampant in track and field as some media reports suggest. The various governing agencies that police track and field subject all athletes to rigorous randomized drug testing. At the end of the day, Maurice believes that there are more honest hard working athletes like himself that want to be the best naturally without the aid of steroids.

Maurice sees repairing the tarnished image of track and field as the greatest challenge that exists today. He knows that it will take time, but he is confident that people will once again be interested in seeing world-class sprinters, runners, and jumpers compete nationally and internationally.

When asked how he would suggest improving the image and heightening the awareness of track and field, he pointed to American professional sports leagues. “Track and field needs to take a page from the NBA, and NFL. We need to market our athletes and obtain more made for television competitions.” He suggests creating a professional league that would form teams of elite track and field athletes that would represent the entire country, and compete like the NBA and NFL, with a championship at the end of the season. This is an atypical idea that would no doubt be met with skepticism, but could create a positive influx into a sport that is in need of positive media attention.

Maurice also believes that his fellow track and field athletes have a moral responsibility to give back to the community and society on the whole. “As track athletes, we should all find a way to help someone to make it in the sport,” To that end, Maurice has created the, Maurice Greene Finish the Race Youth Foundation. This group is responsible for instilling the basics of track and field to at risk youths. He will teach them to do this the way he always has—with a plan of action, hard work and determination, and without cheating or cutting corners. He has created a track club for children modeled after some of the elite track and tennis clubs. He wants his club to be affordable to all children regardless of their socio-economic situation.

Maurice envisions this as a way to take a proactive role in teaching children that the only way to achieve success is through hard work and dedication. For the past 5 years, Maurice has been involved with Jerry’s kids and has helped raise money for Cure Autism Now for the past 2 years.

As Maurice prepares to extend his legacy as the “fastest man in the world,” in the 2008 Summer Olympics in China, he remains a man of principles whose desire is to be the best [athlete]. A true champion and world-class athlete, Maurice has an undying will to excel. He understands that to whom much is given, much is expected.

In Maurice’s eyes, his true success and legacy beyond his records and accolades will be based on how well he serves as a conduit for children to learn and develop in track and field while becoming outstanding human beings. CYH

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“As track athletes, we should all find a way to help someone to make it in the sport,” To that end, Maurice has created the, Maurice Greene Finish the Race Youth Foundation.

CYH Magazine is a cross-cultural resource for today’s men and women of color who are interested in International affairs and value their culture and heritage.

Every issue brings you compelling, relevant stories and information that will not only intrigue and inspire, but will provide you with day-to-day tips and tools for living a more fulfilling life.

Celebrate Your Heritage Subscribe Today! www.cyhmagazine.com

health cyh

Breast Cancer:

By Jonnyba Abili

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COURAGEOUS JOURNEY OF HOPE FOR A YOUNG WOMAN

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reast cancer is common among women over the age of 40, and a silent killer among younger women.

There are over 250,000 women under the age of 40 who are diagnosed and living with breast cancer in the U.S. 20% of them are African American. (The Young Survival Coalition).

Diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 28, Khadijah was living the life she thought God had intended for her.

Raised in Brooklyn, New York, she achieved success early in life. Khadijah received a B.S. in Management and worked several years at Morgan Stanley.

As a single mother, she started her own Marketing and PR firm, NuVibes, in 2002. She was also a singer in a band.

“One morning I noticed a lump in my left breast and I told a friend who said the cause may be my period.” Concerned, Khadijah scheduled an appointment with her gynecologist in January of 2003. During her visit to the gynecologist, the doctor dismissed the possibility of cancer but scheduled a sonogram anyway. When the results of the sonogram come back inconclusive, the radiologist scheduled a biopsy in March. “I still didn’t think anything after the biopsy” says Khadijah. In April Khadijah was called to come and review her results. “Sorry, I have bad news…you have breast cancer.” Khadijah shared the shocking news with friends and family members and shared very little details with her then six-yearold daughter.

While waiting to be seen at a treatment center, she noticed she was the youngest one in the waiting room.

Khadijah’s lump size had increased since its detection in April. She grap-

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pled with the decision to have mastectomy and chemotherapy.

Khadijah finally surrendered herself to a mastectomy. Fearing the loss of her hair, she saw chemo as a necessary way to begin the fight against her cancer.

Khadijah told herself, “I’m going to be okay, I’m not going to die I have too much to live for.” Once she began losing her hair, she decided to shave it off.

“When my daughter came in and saw my baldhead, she said mommy you look beautiful. Her reaction empowered me to be bald.” Four months into chemo khadijah was on her way to recovery and continued to run her firm and perform in her band.

She completed chemotherapy in November 2003, and her hair grew back in 2004. Khadijah was hired at the Young Survival Coalition in 2005 as the Diversity & Program Manager. Her job is to reach out to underserved women and provide them with health information and support.

One morning I noticed a lump in my left breast...I’m going to be okay, I’m not going to die I have too much to live for.

Because of inadequate testing for breast cancer among young women under the age of 40 many women are being diagnosed too late, Khadijah advises young women to know their body and if they notice something wrong, they should contact their doctor immediately.

According to the Young Survival Coalition, next year 11,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer under the age of 40 and will have screening for the rest of their life. (YoungSurvival.org).

Khadijah continues to use her voice to uplift and empower people. Her CD of Inspirational songs and poems titled This Day was released last October. In it, she sings about taking one day at a time and knowing everything will be okay. “I know spiritually God wants me to be on a whole different level. I told God to use me how he sees fit.” CYH

www.cyhmagazine.com

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are you at risk?

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By Trisha Gura

health

Binge Eating Disorder

veryone overeats once in a while. There’s the food feast at Thanksgiving, where you gorge yourself, unbutton your waistband, and sprawl on the couch. And the dinner party where you toss down one too many cocktails and nosh on far too many appetizers. But there’s a much more serious condition involving overindulgence. It’s called binge eating disorder, and it’s the most common eating disorder, affecting more people than anorexia and bulimia combined.

Binge eating makes people obese and the disorder can be life threatening. That’s why binge eating disorder has alarmed health officials and why it’s been hitting the news lately.

Here are six key questions that you can answer to help you decide whether or not you have binge eating disorder: 1. Have you ever eaten a huge amount of food in a short period of time (i.e., more than 2,000 calories in less than 2 hours)? People who binge do not graze continually. They eat a lot at once and feel helpless to stop until uncomfortably full. (And sometimes they still keep going.)

2. Do you ever shovel food down, barely chewing, barely tasting or savoring what you are eating? People who binge use food as an anesthetic for agitation, anxiety, anger or any uncomfortable feelings. When you binge, you’re psychologically stuffing down negative emotions and swallowing them, before they can reach the surface.

3. Do you sometimes, and perhaps often, eat alone in secret? People who binge feel woefully ashamed about their eating habits. So they tend to cut off social contact, relying on food as their best friend.

4. Do you ever find that your appetite craving is so strong that you eat frozen or scalding hot food? People who binge are so driven by the urge to binge that they can’t wait for food to thaw or cool down.

5. Have you ever mixed strange or unpalatable foods (e.g., adding chili peppers to ice cream)? People who binge do this as a tactic for preempting binge eating. One woman who regularly binged would drop her son off at preschool every day, return home and put all the leftovers from the night before into a pot with water. She’d combine fried chicken with salad and cake, stew the ingredients for 20 minutes, then eat the horrid concoction. She hoped the nausea from the mixture would keep her from binging. It didn’t.

6. Have you ever gone to great lengths to procure your “favorite foods,” which often are also your “forbidden foods” (such as chocolate, ice cream or junk food)? People who binge feel trapped in their heads, obsessing about and acquiring food. Willpower does not work to thwart a full-blown case of binge eating disorder. For example, a person who regularly binges might drive out to a convenience store at 2 a.m. to buy the perfect double chocolate brownie mix, make the dessert and eat the entire panful. As it is with a substance abuse problem, nothing short of shackles and chains will stop them.

If any of this is you, take heart. Binge eating is treatable, especially if you catch it early on. So don’t postpone getting help no matter how ashamed you feel. You are not alone. There are at least 4 million more Americans like you, nearly 40 percent of them men.

If you have binge eating disorder, you are not lazy or powerless. You simply need treatment, such as “cognitive behavioral therapy,” which works on both your behaviors and the feelings behind those behaviors. Remember: it’s your mind, your body and your life. And you can take charge. Today. CYH Trisha Gura is the author of Lying in Weight: the Hidden Epidemic of Eating Disorders in Adult Women (Harper Collins, May 2007). Visit her online at trishagura.com.

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beauty cyh skin care

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Just as you would change your clothes for each season, you should be changing your skin products as well. To keep the skin looking fresh against the coming cold, Makeup Artist Amanda Martinez recommends using a heavier moisturizer in the fall and winter, with an SPF. "Skin tends to dry out during the cold season, and if you don't have a healthy base to begin the beauty process, makeup will only intensify the areas you are trying to correct" Drink plenty of water and give your skin a little drink with a heavier moisturizer!

Beauty tiP Eye shadow added to the out edges of the eye can create a smoldering look for the fall season, perfect for any day or night adventure!! Using MAC eye shadow Print, Makeup Artist Amanda Martinez blends it into the outer corners of the eye, sweeping it a little upward. "Using a darker gray color will give you the mobility to work this look daytime or nighttime; anything darker would look too harsh."

A little blush and gloss, and you're ready for whatever the weather!!

hair tiP Hair can take quite the beating over the summer months from the Sun's UV rays, the beach and the pool. "We are all guilty of raking a comb through our tangled hair after a summer swim" says hair stylist and beauty expert, Melody White. She recommends starting fall and winter hair care with a great trim and conditioning treatment. "If your hair color is a little faded try deposits only (no peroxide) and color a touch darker or the same color as the ends of your hair to add richness." Always use a leave-in conditioner, like Sebastian Potion #9, before you use heat to style your hair. Flat irons, curlers, and blow dryers, get used more in the fall and winter months, so don't forget to moisturize and protect your hair. CYH

Art Director – Creative M’age www.creativemage.com Photography Mark Sacro Amanda Martinez www.amandarosemakeup.com 967 E. Broadway #2 Long Beach, CA 90802 512-797-9284 Melody White www.melodywhite.com The New Head Hair Spa 1842 Washington Way Venice Beach California 90291 310-827-0204

www.cyhmagazine.com

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oliday D E L I G H T S

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Interior of Artisance Laguna Beach, Oly wood candle sticks on table, Art Books 278 Beach Street, 949.494.0687, artisancelaguna.com

holidaydecor

Interior of Tuvalu 295 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, 949.497.3202, tuvaluhome.com glass ornaments, $16 glass trees, large $24, small $18 sand dollar ornaments, $12 On him: French cuffed Robert Graham shirt, $245, True Religion jeans, $284 On her: Solid Scrunch Scarf/ 48.00 Glitter Tube Bra/ 28.00 Metallic Dress/ 188.00 Cream Crochet Tights/ 50.00 Bronze Metallic Flat Boots/ 265.00 Menswear available at The Vault, 381 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, 949.376.4000, premiermen.com And at Melrose Place, 361 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5533 Womenswear available at LF Laguna, 278 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, 949.497.9194, LFstores.com Special thanks to Jonathan at Artisance Laguna Beach and Laurie Alter at Tuvalu.

Photography Courtenay Nearburg www.nearburgphoto.com Beauty Styling by Michelle Lee Taylor www.michelletaylorphotography.com

holidaycocktails

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olidays bring seasonal cheer, snowy days, mistletoe dreams and, last but not least, parties. It’s time to pull out festive clothes and start preparing for the whirlwind of get-togethers. Celebrate this season with some new tasty cocktails that are bound to keep spirits bright.

HENNESSY HAY RIDE 2 oz Hennessy V.S 1 oz Triple Sec 1 oz fresh lemon juice 1 twist of orange peel MARTIN MILLER’S SUGAR & SPICE MARTINI 2 oz. Martin Miller’s 2 oz. Apple Cider oz. Fresh Orange Splash of Brown Sugar Simple Syrup Shake with ice. Serve in Martini glass that has been rimmed with a mixture of cinnamon, superfine sugar.

ZEN ZEN is America’s first super premium green tea liqueur and makes a wonderful and unique gift that is sure to catch attention. The tea leaves used in Zen are grown in Kyoto, Japan by Marukyu-Koyama-En, a company set in tradition that has been cultivating Japanese tea for over 300 years. ($29.99)

What better way to ring in New Year than with a glass of champagne – that is if you can make it until midnight. Ballatore Champagne has just the thing! The Champagne has recently been enjoyed by celebrities such as Jermaine Dupri, Janet Jackson, Steve Aoki, Quincy Jones, Robert Rodriguez, and Zoe Saldana.

BALLATORE CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL One Glass of Ballatore Splash of Redbull / Oso Splash of cranberry Mix in a champagne flute.

The drink is that simple and just as delicious.

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MIDORI MISTLETOE PUNCH 1 part SKYY Vodka 1 part Champagne 1 part Midori 2 parts Pineapple juice 1 part Soda water Prepare in a punch bowl or any bowl 5lt+, pour over ice. Garnish with Mistletoe or candy cane.

28 •£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£

holidayfeasts MAKING HOLIDAY MEMORIES Holiday entertaining is all about making memories for family and friends, creating new traditions and revisiting those you look forward to year after year. Even the busiest person can host a holiday gathering to remember - with a little help from Life and Style expert, Sandra Lee. As a television host and best-selling author of 13 cooking and entertaining books, Lee offers a time-saving, "Semi-Homemade" approach. Lee's formula of 70 percent readymade items and 30 percent custom touches makes holiday entertaining eminently doable, from elegant tablescapes to signature drinks, do-ahead main dishes and celebratory desserts.

BOURBON HONEY-GLAZED HAM Servings: 10 to 12 Prep Time: 15 minutes / Cooking Time: 1 hour / Stand Time: 20 minutes

1 2/3 1/2 1/3 1 1/8

cup clover honey cup bourbon or other whiskey cup orange marmalade (100% fruit) cup molasses whole (5-pound) bone-in smoked ham, fully cooked cup whole cloves

1. Preheat oven to 350∞F. 2. In medium saucepan over low heat, heat honey, bourbon, marmalade and molasses 15 minutes or until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

3. With sharp knife, cut diamond pattern into fatty part of ham. Stud whole cloves in center of each diamond. Spread half of bourbon glaze over ham. Roast, uncovered, 30 minutes. Baste occasionally with remaining glaze and continue to roast another 15 minutes. Let ham stand 20 minutes before slicing.

Tip: When measuring honey and molasses, spray measuring cup with nonstick cooking spray to easily remove from cup.

•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£•£• CROWN ROAST WITH SOURDOUGH DRESSING Servings: 10 to 12 Prep Time: 30 minutes / Baking Time: 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours

Crown Roast 5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 packet (1.2-ounce) green peppercorn marinade mix 1 packet (1-ounce) zesty herb seasoning mix 1 pork crown roast (7- to 8-pound)

Sourdough Dressing 1/2 pound Johnsonville Italian sausage 1 packet (0.9-ounce) onion mushroom soup mix 1 can (16-ounce) fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth 1 can (10-ounce) condensed golden mushroom soup 6 cups sourdough croutons 1/3 cup chopped, fresh Italian parsley leaves 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried marjoram Salt and pepper

1. Preheat oven to 325∞F. 2. For crown roast, in shallow roasting pan, combine Worcestershire sauce, green peppercorn marinade mix and herb seasoning mix. Place crown roast, bone ends up, in pan. Wrap bone ends with aluminum foil to prevent browning too quickly. Using pastry brush or spoon, coat entire meat surface with sauce mixture. Transfer pan to oven and roast, uncovered, 20 to 25 minutes per pound of meat (2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours).

3. For sourdough dressing, in large nonstick skillet over medium heat, brown sausages.

Add soup mix, broth and soup. Stir in croutons, parsley, thyme and marjoram. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

4. Remove roast from oven about 45 minutes before it is done. Fill cavity with sourdough dressing. Return roast to oven and cook remaining 45 minutes. Transfer roast to platter and remove foil from bone ends.

Tip: Bake any extra stuffing in a separate dish alongside roast for remaining 45 minutes.

Photos and recipes courtesy Sandra Lee Family Features

holidayfashion

Gold Dress: Michelle Jonas.

Gold Spangle Vest: Studio RC. Thick Gold Chain with Black Strap Necklace: Studio RC. Red Stone Necklace:Safiaday.com.

Leather Charmed Wrap Bracelet: Tommassini.

Photography - Olesja Mueller www.olesjamueller.com Make-up, hair - Erika Harding www. architexturesalon.com Styling - Lisa Bae Assistant Stylist - Heather Marie Bassett Location - courtesy of Glen Muse mansion, Ojai, CA

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Braided Balloon Dress: ROJAS. Titanium and 14K Gold Chain link Bracelet: Tommassini.

Multi Button Necklace:Studio RC. Metallic Snake skin shoes: Stylists own.

www.cyhmagazine.com

Sky Blue Pinstripe Button up Shirt: H&M. Cardigan Vest: American Apparel. White Skinny Tie: Vintage. Ring: Models own.

Silver Metallic Dress: Studio RC. Dangle Ruby Necklace and Bracelet: Tommassini. Shoes: Stylists own.

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Button down Jean Cotton Shirt and Wool Vest: Torison.

Black Tie: Club Monaco.

Rings: Models own.

Sheer Lace Top: Single.

Red bra with Lace Trim: Victoria's Secret.

Satin High Waisted Pencil Skirt: Studio RC. Wooden Torus Chain link Necklace: Studio RC. 14kGold Swarovski Crystal Bracelet and Ring: Tommassini.

Suspenders and Heels: Stylists own.

www.cyhmagazine.com

fashion cyh

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BeBe black and white scoop neck top; Anne Klein skirt can be purchased at Nordstrom; black strappy sandals from Nine West; earrings by BeBe and necklace by MyLittlePretty.com

Art Director – Creative M’age www.creativemage.com Photography Mark Sacro Make Up and Hair by Amanda Martinez www.amandarosemakeup.com

fashion cyh

Banana Republic Plaid Pants BeBe Cashmere Sweater Brown Pumps from Colin Stuart which can be purchased at www.victoriasecret.com

Anne Taylor Suit with Anne Taylor Sleeveless Cashmere Sweater Ann Marino t-strap shoe

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Dress by Single, earrings and necklace

by La Bella Gem, nude pump by Carlos Falchi

spring into

fa ll

Dress by Single, wrap bracelet

by La Bella Gem, brown peep toe pump by Carlos Santana

Photographer: Lucinda Wedge Images All Ways www.lucindawedge.com Retoucher: Richard Wedge 310.600.6374

Bebe black halter dress; Bebe black cutout cuff; Nordstroms's wedge sandals.

Photo Assistant: Renard Kemp prosquire@yahoo.com Make-up Artist: Jennifer Thorington www.jenniferthorington.com Hair by Francisco Pinto Wardrobe Stylist: Chris Mannor chrismannor@yahoo.com

Dress by Single, neck pendant by Safia, strap wedge by

Models: Mala Ownes for BMG Models Katherine Bookout for NOTIES Management in San Diego Anastassia Sendyk

www.cyhmagazine.com

fashion cyh

Salmon halter dress

by Li Cari, round toe bowed pump

by Nine West

White back tie dress

by Li Cari, Silver Sandal

by Aldo

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Pink ruffle collar dress by Li Cari, nude pump by Carlos Falchi

Floral print deep V dress by Y Apparel, jewelry by La Bella Gem, round toe bowed pump

by Nine West

White babydoll dress by Rubber Ducky, peace sign necklace by The Last September, cuff by Charles Klein, earrings and bracelet by La Bella Gem, black peep toe pump

by Delicious

Navy and white polkadot flower print dress by Y Apparel, jewelry by La Bella Gem, yellow bag

by Addore and brown peep toe pump by Carlos Santana www.cyhmagazine.com

fashion Hair Stylist: Alyson Black www.AlysonParadiseBlack.com Wardrobe Stylist: Valerie Fowler www.klozmode.com Make up Artist: Nakeah Fuller www.allaboutface.net

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Bebe black satin capri; Bebe black silk bustier; Bebe black satin sandals with silver platform; Bebe silver triple hoop earrings; La Bella Gem black bead cuff.

Arden B. black satin dress with sheer overlay & silver metal yoke; Nordstrom’s clear heel wedges

www.cyhmagazine.com

style cyh

S T Y L I N G F O R

By Leesa Davis

Spruce up your work wardrobe with form-fitting blazers and pieces that can transition from a day to night look!

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T H E

exes

Sephora Super Shimmer Lip Gloss Price: $10 www.sephora.com

Silk Skirt Price: $495 www.burberryusaonline.com

Hollywood Style Price: $49 Available at Gordman’s/ DSW Stores

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Silk Chiffon and Cotton Poplin Shirt Price: $475 www.deneishalatoya.com

THE PROFESIONAL

WOMAN

Style&Co. Three-Quarter Sleeve Boxy Suit Jacket Price: $99 www.macys.com

ON THE GO

Levi’s 440 Boot-Cut Jean Price: $40 www.levis.com Giani Bernini Medium Hobo Bag Price: $52.50 www.macys.com

Live Luxe by Jennifer Lopez Women’s Collection Price: $25-52 www.macys.com

www.cyhmagazine.com

style cyh

THE PROFESIONAL

MAN ON THE GO

This year’s fall shows that grey is indeed the new lack. Layering is also a cool way to accentuate a casual look while maintaining a sophisticated style.

By Leesa Davis

Movado Museum Stanless Steel Quartz Watch Price: $214.99 www.overstock.com

Impermeable Suede-Touch Jacket Price: $99.50 www.rochesterclothing.com

Kenneth Cole EDT Spray Price: $45 www.rochesterclothing.com

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Sterling Silver Gray Cufflinks Price: $170 www.macys.com Three-Piece Suit Price: Varies www.overstock.com

Alfani River Stripe Tie Price: $24.99 www.cyhmagazine.com

Photography By Gerald Harper

Center photo: The march on Jena September 20, 2007.

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1. Lead attorney, Louis Scott, preparing case 2. Anthony Reed, District Attorney of La Salle Parish conducting news conference 3. Al Sharpton about to go live on CNN 4. Local minister discussing case 5. Some of approximately 50,000 who attended ralley from across the U.S.

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6. ML King III and sister Bernice greeted by Al Sharpton 7. Melissa Bell, mother of Mychal Bell, leaving court after her son’s bail was denied.

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the chronology of a conflict

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ook FAIR

THIS HOLIDAY GIVE A GIFT THAT INSPIRES. GIVE SOMEONE A BOOK. BOOKS ARE ALWAYS THE PERFECT GIFT. HERE ARE A FEW OF MY PICKS FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

ENJOY!

THE PEEBLES PRINCIPLES R. Donahue Peebles Peebles, an African American real estate entrepreneur with a net worth of more than a quarter of a billion dollars, shares the secrets of his success. He provides readers with the 12 principles he used to become successful. This book is an easy read and gives a step by step approach to building wealth through real estate. For those who aspire to become wealthy, this book is a must have.

Available for $24.95 at major bookstores

I GOT YOUR BACK: A FATHER AND SON KEEP IT REAL ABOUT LOVE, FATHERHOOD, FAMILY AND FRIENDSHIP

EMERGING FROM THE DUNGEONS OF DESPAIR: POEMS AND REFLECTIONS E. W. Ford Ford spent thirty years in prison, or as he states, thirty "callous years of confinement". He wrote most of his poems during 'lock-down'.

His work reflects prison life, the sixties, love, relationships, family and his encounters with racism. Brutally honest and surprisingly gentle, this book is a must have! The perfect gift for the discriminating reader.

In addition to being a writer, Ford is an actor and recovering heroin addict. He is currently working on a proposal for the city of Los Angeles to cease gang violence.

Available in Paperback $14.99 Order online at amazon.com or www.booksurge.com

THE WOMEN WHO RAISED ME Victoria Rowell Written as a memoir, Victoria shares her experiences as a foster care child. This book is a tribute to the many women who raised her. She was born the child of a schizophrenic mother and an unknown black father. Rowell chronicles the experience of being a foster care child and the circumstances that lead to her advocacy for children in foster care.

Available in hardcover at major bookstores $29.95

Gerald and Eddie Levert This father and son collaboration is a touching and candid account of the love and challenges of two of the biggest icons in R&B. Especially touching is the prologue entitled "A Father's Reflection". In it, Eddie, member of the O'Jays, gives his touching account upon receiving the news of Gerald's death. A good read for those who enjoy the O'Jays, Gerald Levert, and good family values.

The book is available for $18.95 in hardback at major bookstores

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PASSION FOR LIFE, REASON TO LIVE R. Lee Walker This eclectic collection of poems, maxims, and anecdotal stories is written to entertain and inspire. Taken from scriptures, folklore, and the writer's own pearls of wisdom, this easy to read book contains answers to many of life's challenges. In addition, the writer includes personal worksheets and journals at the end of the book for self improvement. Makes for a great gift for others or for you to enjoy.

R. Lee Walker, PhD is a motivational speaker with advanced degrees in Social Science.

Paper back $17.00 Available on line at amazon.com or rleewalker.org

special section

H THE

ERITAGE L I S T

People who are impacting and inspiring others to take action

The 6 people we have chosen, while united by their quest and passion for change, are widely different in their aims, and in the environments in which they work. They are using their lives to enrich and inspire other lives. So we celebrate them.

By our contributing editor, D. Martina, and freelance writer, Debbie Burk

Victoria Rowell

By D. Martina

ADVOCATE FOR FOSTER CARE REFORM No one seems to understand the circumstances of being a foster child more than Victoria Rowell, foster care advocate and award winning actress from the cast of "The Young and the Restless". Over 500,000 children in the U.S. currently reside in some form of foster care, and approximately two-thirds of that population consists of African American children (American Academy of Adolescent Psychiatry 2007).

By her own account she was the product of a schizophrenic mother and an unknown African American father, and was born a ward of the state of Maine. So, in 1990, she founded The Roswell Foster Children's Positive Plan {RFCPP}, an organization that provides fine arts classes, athletic training, and summer jobs for foster children in Los Angeles and Boston. She is also a national spokesperson for UPS's Annie E. Casey Foundation.

In a recent interview Victoria shared her personal experience in the foster care system and took time out to discuss her memoirs in her recent book, The Women Who Raised Me. The book chronicles her life through the foster care system and the women who served as her mentors throughout this experience. The book seems more of a tribute to her mentors who consisted of mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and teachers.

I asked Victoria if her situation was atypical and she responded, "Not at all. There are many foster children who share my experience. Of course, there are many who don't."

I was curious to know what recourse a child has when confronted with challenging issues. She replied, "When you are challenged, go deep into your re-

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Victoria Rowell with Senator Hillary Clinton.

Victoria is currently campaigning on behalf of Senator Clinton.

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Photos Courtesy Victoria Rowell

‰ Victoria receiving an award from now Mayor Villarosa, several years ago for her work on foster care.

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The experience can sometimes leave a child in a difficult and stressful situation— searching for self, for the pieces one needs to be whole. As she states in the last chapter of her book, “The Women Who Raised Me is a quilt and each woman gave me a piece of herself to sew together to make me whole.”

Victoria with Governor John Baldacci of Maine, during the opening of the Portland Freedom Trail in June 2007. This permanent walking trail consists of 13 historic sites, marked by granite posts, which illustrate the role that Portlanders played in the Underground Railroad and the effort to abolish slavery in the United States.

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Victoria also actively supports the Grandparents Care Giver Act because many children today are awarded to their grandparents. She admits that reform is constant with foster children and that with being a foster child comes a complex list of other issues such as healthcare and the issue of independent living.

As an advocate for foster care reform, Roswell has been active in Hilary Clinton's presidential campaign and champions the rights of all foster care children.

A mother of two, she seems to balance her life between taking care of her two children and managing RFCPP. Victoria is very dedicated to foster care reform. The experience can sometimes leave a child in a difficult and stressful situation— searching for self, for the pieces one needs to be whole. As she states in the last chapter of her book, “The Women Who Raised Me is a quilt and each woman gave me a piece of herself to sew together to make me whole.”

‰

serve and pray. Find someone to have a relationship with. Try to find someone to trust." She explained that often times foster children may be given a contact number to call, or the name of the supervisor to contact in case of a crisis.

She also suggested that depression is often a major issue with foster children.

According to AACAP {American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry} 30% of foster children have severe emotional, behavioral, health, or developmental problems and struggle with: • blaming themselves and feeling guilty about removal from their birth parents • wishing to return to birth parents • feeling unwanted if awaiting for an adoption for a long time • feeling helpless about multiple changes in foster parents over time • having mixed emotions about attaching to foster care parents • feeling insecure and uncertain about their future • reluctantly acknowledging positive feelings for foster parents

Victoria with her children, Maya and Jasper. www.cyhmagazine.com

John Hope Bryant THE FINANCIAL REVOLUTIONARY

By Debbie Burke

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John Hope Bryant, an economic revolutionary, has single-handedly empowered lowincome communities across America through Operation HOPE. After witnessing the gross injustice of the Rodney King trial, John created Operation HOPE to educate families on financial literacy. He calls it “a radical movement of common sense.”

Raised in Compton, Los Angeles, John became homeless at 18. But, he says, “I was never poor. I had a mother telling me she loved me everyday.” Strong self-esteem, instilled by his father, enabled him to launch a business and become a social entrepreneur, raising over $400 million to eradicate poverty. He says “broke is economic. Poor is a disabling frame of mind.”

Today Operation HOPE runs in 30 major U.S. cities and South Africa.

In 1996 John launched Banking on Our Future, a program teaching finance to inner-city kids. Passionate about changing our education system he lobbied President Bush for six years. Recently Bush agreed to institute financial education into the school and work force.

The obstacle to fiscal literacy in America is “people are too ashamed to admit they don’t really understand money.” When it comes to underserved communities, John speaks with fire.

“We gotta radicalize the definition of Black folks. What we don’t know that we don’t know is killing us.” A serious problem is many African-Americans haven’t learned about real wealth-building as shown by the materialism in inner-city communities. “We’re renting rims!” he says. “[This is] slavery of mind and spirit.”

Still, John believes in the brilliance of his people here and in the Diaspora. “While I’m ringing the bell of concern, I am hopeful for the future. You can’t have a rainbow without a storm.”

Leading the Silver Rights Movement, John’s goal is to teach 5 million children here and abroad courses on dignity, entrepreneurship and starter saving.

To that end, in November Operation HOPE will be expanding its current Johannesburg, South Africa Banking on Our Future program to the cities of Capetown and Wellington. “We are sitting in a moment of history; we can’t afford to languish in indifference.”

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Photos courtesy John Bryant

Dottie Laster

By Debbie Burke

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD CONDUCTOR Armed with an enigmatic personality and lively laugh, she seems more like a Mrs. Fields who bakes cookies for a living rather then one who rescues victims from the harrowing jaws of human trafficking -modern day slavery. But that's just what Dottie Laster, Orange County Human Task Force Administer and Human Rights Activist, does. "As a kid, I imagined what I'd do in the time of slavery,” she says eyes twinkling. “Would I have helped in the Underground Railroad or bought slaves and given them a better life?"

Slaves come to her from brothels, message parlors, homes, restaurants and even church choirs. When she receives a victim, she coordinates law enforcement and social services, provides training to professionals and community members in order to move the victim from slavery to self-sufficiency. The traffickers “strip the soul so that the body can work,” says Dottie. “[Victims] need a social structure around them; education, work authorization, doctors, religious organizations, friends and places to live.” Dottie feels humbled by those she has worked with, “As strong as I am they’re stronger.”

Preparation for Dottie’s life’s work began early. She grew up in a volatile Texas home and faced a

Photos courtesy Gerald Harper

bully in high school who tried to rape her. Instinctively she knew the one thing that saved her life, “Don’t show fear.” From her experiences, she has compassion for her victims. Dottie’s children and horseback riding keep her motivated. “I understood freedom from them,” she says.

Dottie has only been in Orange County for a year, but she feels she has “definitely increased awareness [of human trafficking] in a way that’s not scary but engaging. “The amount of social wealth here is tremendous.” Still “we need more awareness. We need people to understand this exists.” She thinks what stops many Americans from knowing is “we were told slavery ended in the 1800’s.”

Dottie’s dream is to get as many T-Visas (work authorization for trafficking victims) as possible. She has teamed up with Larry Gassin, an Orange County based business executive and leadership author, to provide global consulting services on slavery and human rights abuse to governments, non-profits and multinational corporations. “I have a vision that combating exploitation and achieving profit are attainable in the same organization. I want to do more to help change people’s lives.”

Deon Bullard

By Shelia Highsmith

SURVIVOR WITH A VISION Long before Beyoncé popularized “Survivor” a real life situation tried to imprison the spirit and soul of an abandoned child in far away Bahamas. This once destitute young man, Deon Bullard, persevered through life’s obstacle to reach his dreams and vision of making it in real estate.

Deon Bullard was born in the Bahamas to Rhondalee Marshall and Hilton Bullard Hilton, a struggling accountant and Rhondalee, a stay at home mom lived an endurable existence. Deon witnessed domestic violence at the hands of his frustrated father who could not provide for his family. Unable to tolerate her perilous environment and the constant abuser, Rhondalee left Deon and Hilton and moved to Miami, Florida.

Hilton, unable to care for then two year-old Deon, sent him to live with his grandmother, Rhoda Bullard, and five other grandchildren. She earned a living as a maid cleaning hotels. Deon was shuffled around until he was four years old before his mother and father reunited in the Bahamas.

Several traumatic events made lasting impressions on his life. One of his uncles was shot and he witnessed the death of another one to an overdose of cocaine. Still, another was hit by a car in the presence of Deon.

When he was nine years old his mother moved him with her to Miami. She enrolled Deon in a private Seventh Day Adventist school. He often asked about his dad who rarely showed, but, when he did, he would sometimes give Deon money.

Better days and good fortune were ahead. In high school Deon excelled and was awarded a partial basketball scholarship to a University in Washington. Unfortunately, he was unable to enroll because he couldn't afford to pay the balance of his tuition.

Down but not out, he enrolled in Middlesex County College in New Jersey. While at Middlesex College, Deon worked part time at Lowes and Home Depot. His strategy was to learn as much as he could about building, appliances, and real estate.

At age 21, he bought his first home with the help of Mutual Funds and stocks from his investment in Lowes and Home Depot. At 23, he purchased his second home.

His goal now was to own five homes by the age of 28—a mission successfully accomplished.

Deon’s vision was to empower and encourage others to buy property and to become investors. He has helped many people purchase homes by providing financial services for them or directing them to places where they could capital.

One of his most rewarding accomplishments was helping a co-worker purchase his first property, a condo for his bride. Mr. Ramos was an ex-substance abuser who acquired a certified alcohol and drug certification (CADC) an accomplished goal. With Deon’s help, he was able to acquire a $350,000 dollar grant to open a facility in Newark, New Jersey to treat substance abusers and alcoholics. Unfortunately, Mr. Ramos was very ill and died un-expectedly on his birthday, November 2006.

At age 31, Deon has accomplished more than he could dream. He is now the CEO and Founder of Telnet Information Service, Inc. also known as TIS ZERO (www.tiszero.com). The company provides live operators who provide information such as driving directions, telephone numbers, local weather, and stock information to job listings to callers.

Deon’s ultimate goal is to provide jobs and stock options to college students by giving them financial opportunities and security for the future. Deon, a father of two children, is happily married to Judith, an early childhood teacher, for 10 years.

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Photo courtesy Deon Bullard

Dr. Dawn Cooper Barnes AURORA–DAWN OF THE DANCE

By Deborah Burke

L I S T

Photo courtesy Gerald Harper

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“What’s my passion? Images of Africa,” says Dr. Dawn Cooper Barnes who uses African dance to create community in both America and Liberia. “I’ve been a dancer at heart. As a young child I would respond to music and drumming.”

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Dawn received her Masters in theatre and PhD in film. As Associate Professor of Performing Arts at Howard Community College in Maryland, she established the Aurora Dance Company, a multi-cultural dance troupe that promoted African culture, spirituality and true expression in the community. Dawn directed Aurora (which means ‘dawn’ in Latin) from 1995-2002 emphasizing the need to honor your ancestors. “People were in awe. In African culture there is no such thing as a person who can’t dance, just one who is dishonest.”

Desiring to further highlight the connection between African-Americans and Liberians, she wrote, directed and produced films including The Cry of the Pepperbird. Though the films were well received in America, love convinced her that she would have to go back to Liberia to experience that true connection for herself.

In 2000, Dawn, a product of Marcus Garvey, went to Liberia on a permanent basis with her husband, Nat, to try to re-build Liberia’s ravaged nation. She founded The Aurora Foundation in Africa where her troupe performed throughout the country while giving out micro-credit loans ($50) to women who wanted to start a business and supported the Jesus Christ Orphanage.

“The first time we went home [in 1980] we were full of hope,” she says. But after the first government coup, we were totally interrupted because war broke out again.” At this time, President Charles Taylor had committed war crimes leaving Liberia in devastating poverty. Dawn and her husband backed President Ellen Sirleaf. Her husband soon became the Finance Minister of Politics, while Dawn produced theatre, comedy series and pursued TV programming.

Currently, the couple is stationed in New York as diplomats and can be called back to Liberia at any time. Juggling being a diplomat’s wife and a producer, Dawn collaborates with Good News Broadcast Network restoring images of Liberia to the world. Of all the places in the world the continent of Africa has the most negative image. “We have to clean it up to invite people.” To that end Dawn is marketing a pilot on Liberia to PBS and starting a Couture African fashion line. “I’m almost 50, I’m urgently trying to do everything on my checklist [and] I’ve always been crazy about clothes.” Dawn is optimistic about the state of Africa. “If all 53 states speak with one voice Africa can be powerful in the world. I see it happening in my lifetime.”She urgently reaches out to those who have a special passion for Africa. “Don’t be overwhelmed. Whatever your gifts are, Africa is only a plane ticket away. We’re not God, but do your part. Make a choice to make a difference.”

www.cyhmagazine.com

Dr. Erieka Bennett DIASPORIANS UNITE!

By Deborah Burke

L I S T

Dr. Erieka Bennett, 57, celebrated activist and diplomat, just flew into New York. She is traveling between the States and Accra Ghana where she lives and serves as head of the Mission African Union. Her mission is simple, “to connect Diasporians to the motherland so that [they] know they have a home.”

To Erieka “Diaspora” means all global peoples with roots in Africa. Born in South Carolina she “saw the tremendous need of people who wanted to come back to Africa but didn’t know how to do it.” So she launched the Diaspora Africa Forum, a large African-American community and information center in Ghana built on the WEB Dubois Memorial. It includes a Sankofa Wall where African-Americans display the names of their ancestors. “It’s very emotional,” she says.

To connect our scattered peoples, Erieka combines politics and media. Through the African International Media Summit (AIMS), which she founded, she works to “rebrand Africa.” “People think war, famine and AIDS. In order to attract Diasporians we gotta change the image.” As Vice Chair of the African Communications Agency Erieka showcases the continent’s incredible resources and business opportunities. One of her most successful ventures has been the publication of The Legacy, a photo book chronicling Bill Clinton’s legendary trips to Africa.

When it comes to politics, Erieka has worked with some of the most powerful leaders in the world.

Besides her friend Bill Clinton, she has also impacted President Ellen Sirleaf of Liberia and the King of the Ashanti. She sits on the Ghanaian Presidential Council and has been knighted by Laurent Gbagbo, President of Cote d’Ivoire, for her efforts. But her proudest honor came from the Conference on African Women, where she was awarded for making a remarkable impact. “Women in Africa are powerful. They control their societies. The African woman has mastered how to balance being a mother, wife and minister. I tend to feel in [American] society my sisters are forced to allow their masculinity to take over their femininity and lose the balance of it.”

Some of this balance can be restored economically through African-Americans starting businesses in Africa instead of just coming for tourism or validation. “It’s wonderful that we want to connect emotionally, but we need to see it as a business. Africa is virgin territory. It doesn’t need money. It needs skills and the right spirit. It has the highest return on investment in the world.

Every other ethnic group is doing business in Africa except African-Americans.”

Her son, only 25, would agree. He’s going back to start a diamond company. Erieka encourages her 10 adopted children to connect to Africa by instilling in them the “tremendous sense of self” that her mother instilled in her.

And that is what keeps her motivated. “We are the hopes and dreams of our ancestors. We come from the best of the best.” With the spirit of a lion mixed with the honey of a grandmother’s voice she asks, “So, when are you coming to Africa?”

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Websites to check out: www.theafricanmediasummit.com www.diasporaafricanforum.org www.acapublishing.com

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eye on wealth cyh

are you

Financially

Fit?

A checklist for shaping up your personal balance sheet

YOU KNOW IT'S IMPORTANT TO GET REGULAR PHYSICAL EXAMS AND TAKE YOUR CAR IN FOR OIL CHANGES AND TUNE-UPS. BUT WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO MAKE SURE YOUR FINANCES ARE IN GOOD SHAPE, TOO? THE START OF A NEW YEAR IS A GREAT TIME TO GIVE YOUR FINANCES A CHECKUP, BUT IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY OR TOO LATE TO MAKE SURE YOU'RE PROPERLY MANAGING YOUR MONEY. HERE'S A CHECKLIST FOR CONDUCTING A SIMPLE YET THOROUGH FI-

1

NANCIAL SELF-EXAMINATION.

PERIODICALLY

REVIEW YOUR ACCOUNTS.

"Talk to a customer service representative at your bank to make sure you're signed up for the accounts and the features that best fit your needs, especially if your financial situation has changed recently," said Janet Kincaid, FDIC Senior Consumer Affairs Officer. "For example, if you tend to carry a balance on your credit card, find out if you can qualify for a card with a lower interest rate. Or, ask if your bank offers special deals if you maintain certain balances or use additional services, such as direct deposit of your paycheck."

At the same time, compare your bank's products and services with those of competitors. "Don't be afraid to shop around," Kincaid said. "If nothing else, you'll want to know that the rates, fees and services at your current bank are at least comparable to what's out there in the marketplace for the services you need and, most importantly, that the services you are using still meet your needs."

2

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE – AND HAVE READ – THE MOST RECENT

"DISCLOSURES" ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNTS.

3

These descriptions of your account are like a contract with your financial institution.

Knowing the features, fees and options as well as limitations – before you open the account and later as you conduct business – can prevent misunderstandings and costly mistakes. "We are continually encouraging consumers to read the disclosures," Kincaid stressed. "Make sure you know exactly what you are getting and paying for and what you are not."

For example, your credit card may automatically include, at no extra charge, extended warranties on purchases and insurance for car rentals. These kinds of features can save you money – but only if you know they exist. Similarly, your card may offer bonus points toward airline travel or products and services, auto club memberships, and other extras – some free of charge, some for a fee. You need to read the disclosures to understand the rules, restrictions and potential costs, which may greatly reduce the value of these offers.

GET A FREE COPY OF YOUR CREDIT REPORT.

These reports, prepared by companies called credit bureaus, summarize your history of paying debts and other bills. If you apply for a loan, insurance or a job, or you want to rent an apartment, chances are your credit report will be reviewed for information about your financial reliability.

But you should be reviewing copies of your credit report, too. One reason is to correct errors or omissions, which could damage your credit rating and, in the case of a loan or credit card application, cost you hundreds of dollars each year in interest or other charges. Also, by monitoring your credit reports you help guard against identity theft because you can look for signs that a fraudster has opened credit cards or other accounts in your name.

The three nationwide credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian and TransUnion – issue their own reports and they sometimes differ, so it's smart to see what each one is saying. By law, you are entitled to one free copy of your report each year from each of those three companies. For more information and to order free credit reports, go to the Web site established by the three credit bureaus at www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call toll-free 1-877-322-8228. Although you can ask to receive copies from all three credit bureaus at the same time, you also can spread out your requests throughout the year to get periodic updates.

(Continued on page 50)

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LOOK AT HOW YOU'RE SPENDING MONEY – AND HOW YOU CAN DO A BETTER JOB.

FHASecure: President George W. bush recently announced that HuD's Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will help an estimated 240,000 families avoid foreclosure by enhancing its refinancing program effective immediately. under the new FHASecure plan, FHA will allow families with strong credit histories who had been making timely mortgage payments before their loans reset-but are now in default-to qualify for refinancing.

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There are many things you can do to make your banking, bill paying and other financial chores easier. Examples include: • Organizing your personal and financial papers to make sure you and your family can quickly find what you need • Getting rid of the papers you're sure you don't need • Looking into consolidating accounts or concentrating your business with fewer financial institutions • Signing up for direct deposit of your pay and benefit checks and other regular income• Having a certain sum automatically transferred each month to a savings or investment account • Arranging for an automatic withdrawal from your checking account to cover a recurring expense such as a mortgage loan or utility bill; and • Exploring banking and bill paying by phone or online, which not only saves time and money (instead of writing and mailing checks) but also can help you monitor your account more efficiently than waiting for monthly statements in the mail. $

cyh

It's easy to overspend in some areas and neglect other priorities such as reducing high-interest debt, saving for a down payment on a car or a home, or putting money away for your retirement. That's why you should use your periodic financial checkup as an opportunity to see where your money has been going and make adjustments in your spending and saving plans for the future.

We suggest you try any system – ranging from a computer-based budget program to hand-written notes – that will help you keep track of your spending each month and enable you to set and stick to limits you consider appropriate. "You might be surprised how much you spend, even on small, incidental things such as snacks or specialty coffee," Kincaid said. "You also might be surprised at how keeping track of your spending can make a big difference in achieving your goals."

When reviewing your spending, also make sure you have enough insurance to protect your family – such as disability insurance to replace lost income during a serious illness, life insurance in case a wage earner dies, home owner's or renter's insurance, and health insurance to cover medical bills.

FIND NEW WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR FINANCIAL LIFE.

eye on wealth

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(Continued from page 47)

To learn more, read the FDIC Consumer News at www.fdic.gov/consumernews.

THE NEW REFINANCING PRODUCT

In addition, FHA will implement risk-based premiums that match the borrower's credit profile with the insurance premium they payi.e., riskier borrowers pay more.

This common-sense, risk-based pricing structure will begin on January 1, 2008.

"Many hard-working American families who were able to make their mortgage payments under the initial teaser terms of the exotic loan are now struggling to make ends meet because their

rates have doubled or tripled," said HuD secretary Alphonso Jackson. "FHASecure will bring stability to the housing market and give eligible families who were in good financial standing before their loans reset a chance to keep their homes." $ For more information, visit www.hud.gov

SOUTHEAST ASIA’S DIRTY LITTLE SECRET:

Genocide of the Shan

By D. Martina

is Royal Highness Prince Hso-Khan Pha (pronounced Sur Khan Pa) of Yawnghwe is a pleasant looking man whose kind face betrays the horror he has seen. Today, as Head of State and President of the Federated Shan States, (part of what was once the Union of Burma), he is the keynote speaker at a conference on human rights abuses in Myanmar (formerly Burma)—in a hotel directly across from Disneyland, the "happiest place on earth".

We meet in the lobby after the break and he introduces his associates, three British ex-patriots, with apprehensive looks, who operate the Shan Relief Foundation, an organization dedicated to "protect the Shan men, women and children from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity by providing humanitarian aid and safe havens for refugees whose lives, homes and families have been torn apart and destroyed."

We discuss the human rights abuses: war crimes, rape, forced labor, incarceration of political prisoners, and slave trafficking. Words like egregious, atrocity, and horrible are used to describe the victimization of the Shan people by the military junta. These are terms that reduce human rights abuses to academic issues. But, when these terms are associated with a name or a face, the severity of the crisis is fully realized.

I am handed a picture of Sai Al, a 35 year-old Shan farmer. At first glance it is difficult to ascertain what I am viewing—there is no face. I am told this was a human body and I am quickly reminded of Jasper, Texas1 when I learn that Burmese soldiers tied his neck with a rope, dragged him 100 meters and beat him with sticks. According to their reports he was burned first, then beheaded. Not only did the soldiers force the villages to watch this event, but they also disemboweled his body and forced the villagers to consume his intestines. One account goes so far as to suggest that the soldiers fried the man's liver and washed it down with liquor.

Eerily reminiscent of slavery in the U.S, his entourage presents more disturbing

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In 1998, a black man by the name of James Byrd, Jr., was tied to the back of a car, then dragged several miles until his head and body parts were severed.

This event took place in Jasper, Texas, and several men were charged with his death.

Photos courtesy Gerald Harper

www.cyhmagazine.com

The so-called lucky ones are those who flee through the perilous jungles to Thailand and eventually end up as victims of human trafficking.

This woman is nursing a baby and scraping the opium out of a poppy. Golden Triangle, Shan State, Myanmar-Burma. Photo: Courtesy USIM

photos of victims of the military junta that rule Burma. The 46-page document contains photos of rape victims—young girls and women gang-raped, some for two days, killed, thrown in mass graves andeven burned. Photos of faces slashed by bayonets, people suffocated and

Map of Shan region

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beaten, and children shot by soldiers illustrate the atrocities, the egregious acts of violence, the horrible plight of the Shan.

The so-called lucky ones are those who flee through the perilous jungles to Thailand and eventually end up as victims of human trafficking.

Prince Hso-Khan-Pha refers to them as "Refugees, classified as illegal migrants, are fending for themselves as best they can and becoming open to human trafficking, extortion, cheap labor, and prostitution, fearful of deportation." He goes on to state that those who can, blend into the Thai population, but if they are deported back they are usually killed by the military regime.

Prince Hso-Khan-Pha's eyes widen and connect squarely with mine. He is no stranger himself to the atrocities of the present regime.

"The violent military coup in 1962 killed many people. My father, who was the former President of the

Union of Burma, along with other state leaders, was taken from our home and arrested. He was imprisoned and died under the brutal Burmese military. My brother died defending our home from Burmese soldiers."

Prince Hso-Khan-Pha is quick to reprimand me when I suggest the Shan are Burmese, or that they are somehow related. "The name Shan comes from the Burmese mispronunciation of Siam, or Siem which is derived from the Pali word, Syam, which means Sky. This is the name the Cambodians called the Tai or Thai speaking clans. We Shan call ourselves "Tai", which is a dialectical variation of Thai, or Dai in China. In 1957 the Premier Chouen-lai said to my parents that there were then some 100 million Dai or Tai speaking people in the People's Republic of China." According to Prince Hso-Khan-Pha, the Shan are culturally related to modern Thai-

land and Laos. Other accounts suggest that Shan is a Chinese designation for the Tai group. They are called Tai, Tai Luang (luang means greater, or main), or Tai Mao. His Royal Highness is from the Federated Shan State and represents the Shans, one of the many ethnic minorities that comprise Burma— which is located south of China and borders Thailand and Laos on the east. Rangoon, the former capital, sits on the Bay of Bengal. The new capital of Naypidaw, built by the ruling military junta of Burmese Generals of the State Peace and Development Council {SPDC}, is located 300 kilometers to the North of Rangoon, and is closely guarded by the Burmese military. Supposedly, Burman is the major ethnic group and consists of approximately 68% of the 47,373,958 population. Shan, the next largest group only consist of 9% of the population. (His Royal Highness suggests these figures are manipulated by the Burmese.) Buddhism is the major religion while a small percentage of the population is Muslim and Christian.

(CIA World Facts) Historically, the Shan are an ethnic group who migrated from China thousands of years ago and, according to most historical accounts, had substantial control and power until the Burmese became the dominant rulers in 1604. Although some of the Shan territories were under Burmese control, some existed as independent. In 1922, the British, through agreements with the ruling Shan Princes, founded the Federated Shan States. According to Prince HsoKhan-Pha, the Shan self-ruled with full autonomy in their internal affairs under the Governor of British Burma.

During World War II the Shan States were occupied by the Japanese. In 1947 the Shan rulers signed the Panglong Agreement and Prince Chaopha Shwe Thaike of Yawnghwe became president. Under the terms of that agreement they would have been free to secede from the union; however, in 1958, under the direction of Burman General Ne Win, this effort was frustrated and ultimately resulted in the 1962 military coup responsible for the arrest and assassination of the Shan rulers, and resulting holocaust.

In 1988, the military refused to recognize the election victory of opposition leader and Nobel laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi. Prince Hso-Khan-Pha points out that her futile attempts to utilize non-violence to secure her position of authority resulted in her being placed under house arrest and a political prisoner of the military junta. The Federated Shan States declared independence from the Burmese in 2005, but are still under occupation by Burmese forces.

The Shan region is rich in natural resources—oil, natural gas, iron, silver, uranium, and most importantly, opium.

Opium production is important to the region and according to the UN, the major ethnic region of the Shan States is one of the world's greatest producers of opium. In fact, it is the second largest producer of illicit opium and heroin, and, in 2001, produced over two thirds of the world's production. It is this production of opium, according to His Royal Highness, that is the impetus behind the continued military government control of the Shan States region.

He claims that the Burmese government is profiting from the illicit drug trade at every level ranging from producing opium, manufacturing heroin and related drugs, and transporting drugs, to taxation and protection of this trade.

I ask Prince HsoKhan-Pha why no major effort exists to support Shan independence and why there is no UN intervention. He explains that the UN doesn't recognize the Shan as refugees and that although a resolution was presented it was vetoed by China and Russia. According to the UN, the resolution recently presented by the US and the United Kingdom would have called on the Government of Myanmar to release all political prisoners, cease military attacks against civilians in ethnic minority regions, and begin a political dialogue that

“The refugees, classified as illegal migrants, are fending for themselves as best they can and becoming open to human trafficking, extortion, cheap labor, and prostitution, fearful of deportation.”

Photos this page: Busload of children hiding from the government

www.cyhmagazine.com

He claims that the Burmese government is profiting from the illicit drug trade at every level ranging from producing opium, manufacturing heroin and related drugs, and transporting drugs, to taxation and protection of this trade.

Photos this page: Hiding from the government

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would lead to a genuine democracy. Although China and Russia acknowledged the problems in Myanmar, the resolution was vetoed because they felt the problems in Myanmar do not constitute a threat to international peace and security.

The UN also reports that US Ambassador Alejandro Wolff expressed disappointment at the council's failure to adopt the resolution. Prince Hso-Khan-Pha says, “Of course, both Russia and China are the main arms suppliers to the Burmese SPDC armed forces. Why would they not veto such resolutions? The situation is too lucrative for them�

Prince Hso-Khan-Pha maintains that problems associated with the present regime do in fact present a threat to international peace and security. Specifically, he sites the mass exodus of unrecognized refugees to nearby Thailand. Because they are classified as "illegal migrants" they are subject to exploitation and human trafficking. If they are returned to Shan States they are executed. According to him, granting refugee or human trafficking victim status to those fleeing the Shan States mitigates the dangers to which they are exposed—it makes them less vulnerable to those who are predators of illegal immigrants. Furthermore, he states that the massive opium production in the region, forced and protected by the Burmese military, is used to produce street drugs such as methamphetamines and distributed worldwide. His government is pledged to completely eradicate this illegal drug trade once freedom from Burmese oppression has been recovered and peace, human rights, and democracy is restored.

As we conclude the interview I notice the apprehensive looks have now turned into nervous hopeful smiles. His Royal Highness, Prince Hso-Khan-Pha requests that support be given to the Shan Relief Foundations in humanitarian aid and to end the human trafficking of Shan refugees. He also appeals to the governments of the West for sovereign recognition of the Federated Shan States, which would permit the flow of much needed humanitarian aid into the region, something which the Burmese military government has absolutely refused to permit. Finally, he requests the West petition G-8 nations to support the Shan government's drug eradications campaign.

If you are interested in supporting the Shan you may do so by contacting the Shan Relief Foundation, Inc. at shanrelief@shaw.ca. CYH

Today I’m invisible...

Help make me visible.

Stop human trafficking. www.USIMhUManrIghtS.org

www.cyhmagazine.com

Eddie’s

Gerald Levert:

Got Your Back

Photo courtesy ©DwightCarter.Com

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by D. Martina

T

his summer Heineken honored the hottest and most hard working stars for demonstrating the "hustle, integrity and drive to succeed while inspiring others along the way."

Among this year's honorees was the late R& B singer, Gerald Levert, who grew up under the wings of his father, Eddie Levert, Sr. of the O'Jays. He was only 40 when he died on November 10, 2006 from a fatal heart attack as a result of the accidental combination of prescription and over-the-counter medications. He was an accomplished vocalist, producer, songwriter, and, most importantly, a friend and son.

It was this father-son relationship that brought Eddie Levert to Hollywood to accept the award on behalf of his late son, Gerald. In a concert headlined by Common, Chrisette Michelle and DJ Nice, he was posthumously awarded and recognized for his hard work behind the scenes.

Eddie's warm smile and paternal nature embraced the other recipients at the awards banquet as they paid homage to both father and son as R&B icons. Like only a father who had loved a son could do, Eddie made everyone feel comfortable— a talent obviously inherited by Gerald, hence the name "Teddy Bear".

Don't push them, let them show you." He spoke of the need for fathers to be more consistent in the lives of their children. It is pleasure to know, that in a time when father-son relationships are considered "endangered", the love of a father for his son is noteworthy.

Eddie and wife Photos courtesy CYH Magazine

www.cyhmagazine.com

I gave him life. I taught him [Gerald] that a job cannot be done until it is done. I taught him to focus and to get to the end of a project. I gave him the drive when he got to the end of a project.

Left to right: Gerald Levert, Lyah Beth LeFlore, Eddie Levert Photo courtesy ŠDwightCarter.Com

As a child, Gerald was greatly influenced by his father's involvement with the O'Jays. He formed the trio Levert with his brother, Sean, and close friend, Marc Gordon, as a young adult. Their first single, "I'm Still", stayed on the Billboard R&B charts for weeks, and, "Casanova" was a hit single for the group.

"Baby Hold on to Me" was a duet sung with him and his father.

As a vocalist, producer and songwriter, Gerald has written for an impressive array of artists— The O'Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, Patti La Belle, Stephanie Mills and Barry White to name a few. In 1997 he formed the group LSG with Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill and produced "My Body". Later he produced several albums: Do I Speak for the World, Gerald's World, G Spot, and Stroke of Genius. Most recently he produced the album, Levert, and co-wrote the book, I Got Your Back with his father, Eddie.

According to Eddie, the next move for Gerald would have been the movies and possibly

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the purchase of a jet plane. He pointed out that he and Gerald shared dreams. I also asked Eddie what he thought was the greatest gift he had given his son. His lively charismatic demeanor sobered only for a moment as he contemplated his answer. " I gave him life. I taught him [Gerald] that a job cannot be done until it is done. I taught him to focus and to get to the end of a project. I gave him the drive when he got to the end of a project."

His beautiful wife, Raquel, gazed respectfully as he spoke.

When asked about the greatest gift Gerald ever gave him, he did not hesitate. His eyes connected with Raquel's as he recounted how they met. "Gerald called me one day and asked me to come celebrate his birthday in Kansas City. At first I didn't want to go, but he said, 'Dad, you need to get out and have some fun', so I went. When I got there I had a great time. I danced with these good-looking twins and at the end of the party, I saw this fine Asian woman from behind. I tapped her on

her shoulder and when she turned around to say hello, I knew she was a sister!" Eddie let out a contagious laugh and before we knew, a small but curious crowd began to form.

Eddie also took the time to discuss his views on fatherhood and parenting. His advice on parenting children, "Don't push them, let them show you." He spoke of the need for fathers to be more consistent in the lives of their children. It is a pleasure to know, that in a time when father-son relationships are considered "endangered", the love of a father for his son is noteworthy. Gerald would be proud to know that his father has his back.

The O'Jays are on tour and still performing.

A new movie," Your Arm's Too Short to Box With God", [the film version of the play] is on the horizon, and the book Eddie co-authored with Gerald, I Got Your Back, published by Doubleday, is currently on bookshelves. CYH

sports cyh

baseball, courage, country.

THE “MAKE-UP” OF

KENDRY MORALES

by Geoffrey J. Harper

i

n the world of baseball pundits, the term make-up, is not used to describe the latest Mac or Lancôme cosmetics that women wear. Make-up, is the term that defines a baseball player’s true athletic value, ability and that intangible it. Kendry Morales is one of the most touted baseball talents to ever come to America from Cuba. His make-up, and flair for dramatic baseball heroics are true gifts that are not seen every day. In his Cuban amateur career, Morales batted .330 with 37 home runs, 170 runs batted in (RBI), and 60 doubles—astounding statistics. In his rookie season with the Cuban national team, the Industirales, he broke rookie records with 114 hits, 82 RBI, and 21 home runs. Morales’ flair for the dramatic was evident when he took his first at bat while on the Angels’ entry-level minor league team.

To set the tone, Morales had only been in the United States for about 16 hours, when he very calmly hit the first pitch that went over the fence for a majestic awe-inspiring home run.

For those diehard baseball fans, like yours truly, you may have heard Morales’ unbelievable story. Many would argue that he is already the best player to ever come out of Cuba. He has been a star on Cuba’s national team since his early teen years. The intrigue of yearning to test his baseball make-up, on the highest of all stages in Major League Baseball is what drove him to defect from Cuba.

Morales took his fate and destiny in his own hands and defected from the clutches of Communism to take his talent abroad and get a chance to live the American Dream. Morales’ story of fleeing on a small boat and seeking refuge in the Dominican Republic to establish residency so that he could live and work in the USA is well chronicled. The patience he had to implore while navigating through the legal visa process, persisting

Photos courtesy Geoffrey J. Harper

www.cyhmagazine.com

sports cyh

It is evident that Morales is a man on a mission who has sacrificed a lot to experience his American Dream.

through Major League Baseball (MLB) application procedures for foreign born players, learning a new language (English), and familiarizing himself with cultures and customs adds even more to Kendry’s unbelievable make-up.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down and get Morales’ perspective on baseball, his incredible journey, and what it is like to be a person of color in Cuba. Morales, who currently plays for the Salt Lake Bees, the Angels’ AAA affiliate, is the 1B/3B prospect on the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The topic of race, took him by surprise.

Cuba, as in many Latin American countries, does not have many of the racial divisions that we experience in America. In order to understand this phenomenon, it is important to take a look at the history of the African influence in Cuba. In 1762 the British took 10,000 slaves to Cuba to provide manpower to fuel the new economic moneymakersugarcane. It is estimated that 95 percent of the African slaves transported to the New World from the 15th to the 19th century were sent to Latin America and the Caribbean.

Once slavery was abolished in Cuba in 1886, something amazing happened. Afrocubanismo (Afro-Cubanism) was born. This culmination of African culture, food, rhythm, religion and dance resulted in the birth of a beautiful blend of the African and Spanish cultures that spurred an unbelievable renaissance. Because of this “marriage” of cultures, Morales was quick to say that the major race is Cuban or Latin. The Spanish language bridges these cultures together. When I asked Morales what he missed most about home he told me, “being with family and an authentic Cuban meal. I have sacrificed a lot for this opportunity,”.

It is evident that Morales is a man on a mission who has sacrificed a lot to experience his American Dream. His ultimate goal is to make it to the Angels, have a productive career as a ballplayer, and, most importantly, to be reunited with family. When asked what lesson he has learned from baseball in America, he replied, “The players are strong in America. The talent is great, but what I have gone through in life has prepared me to perform,”.

Morales is currently hitting .340 for the Salt Lake Bees, and has had 3 stints on the Angels’ major league roster. All of the scouts say that his talent is top rated. He definitely has what it takes to be a great player in the league for years to come. My conversation with Morales reinforced that people of color have more in common than not. Being with family over a meal to discuss life, dreams, and goals is not uniquely Spanish, Cuban or American. It is a deep rooted custom that people from all over the world share regardless of the language they speak, the music they listen to, or where they are in the world. Morales’ make-up in regards to baseball skills is unquestionable. But the person that he is, where he is from, and the courage that he has shown to get him to where he is today is the actual testament as to what his make-up, truly is. CYH At press time, Kendry has been promoted to the Los Angeles Angels and is batting .364 with 1 home run and 6 RBI. He also recently had a game winning hit to defeat the Cleveland Indians.

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70

Geoffrey J. Harper and Morales

intuitive ahtlete

the

by Geoffrey J. Harper

hen the game of football is mentioned, images of bruising, muscle-bound athletes who rampage the field with reckless abandon tends to come to mind. Football players in this country have been placed on a pedestal and perceived as modern day gladiators whose main purpose is to entertain us by providing bone-crushing collisions regardless of the short and long term physical outcomes they may incur. Because of this “gladiator-mentality” that we place on football players, we seldom get to know or even care what makes them tick. We also are often guilty of stereotyping these modern day behemoths by failing to even remotely believe that deep intellectual insights and pearls of wisdom can be gleaned from them.

CYH caught up with Ovie Mughelli, starting fullback for the Atlanta Falcons, who completely dispels the unfair stereotype.

Ovie’s story is not a typical one. He was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He is the son of Nigerian parents who were extremely strict during his upbringing and always expected excellence. Mediocrity was not an option. Both of his parents are highly successful; his father is an OB/GYN. Ovie’s parents always stressed the importance of education and how this was his ticket to ultimate success and enlightenment. He went to a highly regarded boarding school in South Carolina, PorterGaud, during his formative educational years that challenged him intellectually and opened his mind to think about life beyond football. While in high school, Ovie excelled both on the football field and academically.

He earned several awards in football and was elected student body vice president by his peers during his senior year in high school.

While his grades were always at the top of his class, Ovie’s athletic talent also became impossible to overlook. He credits playing soccer and even gymnastics as a youth as sports that helped him to develop his passion and skill in American football. Ovie is not your typical football player.

He received a full scholarship to Wake Forest University, one of the top academic universities in the country, definitely not viewed as a football powerhouse. In four years of playing fullback and tight end at Wake Forest, he earned 2nd-team All-American honors as well as being an All-Atlantic Coast Conference performer. Ovie’s favorite class in college was organic chemistry and cell biology, and had the NFL not called, he would most likely have followed his father’s footsteps and become a physician. In fact, on draft day, Ovie was studying for the MCAT (the required entrance exam for medical school) as a back up plan.

When asked what he wants his life’s legacy to be Ovie says, “I want to be seen as a good person first and foremost.” To that end, Ovie has founded the Ovie Mughelli Project. This is an organization that encourages and provides a way for underprivileged children to participate in ed-

Photo courtesy Ovie Mighelli

ucational workshops, health fairs, sports initiatives, and environmental education. Another example of Ovie’s commitment to help enrich youth is evident through his work with the National Education Association.

This group targets Caribbean American and African parents in the U.S., and encourages them to maintain close involvement in their children's activities and education. Another function of this group is to help the children understand that education is the key to realizing their dreams. Ovie was appointed to serve as “Ambassador” to the African community for this organization based on his passion for helping children excel.

After his playing days are over, Ovie would like to work to further provide educational and athletic opportunities for young children in Nigeria, and possibly help to develop a hospital there.

When we discussed the state of the NFL, I asked Ovie if he were Comishioner Roger Goodell what would he do? He replied, “I realize that image is important in any business. However, I would try to do more to educate athletes on the importance of good citizenship, and seek to rehabilitate those whose misstep as intensely as we seek to punish.”

Ovie is no doubt a deep intellectual thinker who is about more than just football. He is the new athlete whose story needs to be told. Society will then see that many athletes are morally conscious, concerned about their fellow man, and desire to make a difference in this world beyond sports. CYH

www.cyhmagazine.com

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