Golden Publication Magazine -Golden Publication is designed for this millennium, focusing on accentuating the very best in femininity. Our articles and features seek to inspire, motivate, and advance women in the areas of health, beauty, business, and finance all being important in the development of the greater you. We delve in the areas of love, hope, and faith, even touching those taboo subjects other magazines refuse to discuss. We embrace sisterhood and the power of unity, understanding our prime positioning women have in today's society, it’s important we learn to use this advantage wisely through sharing our cumulative knowledge and wisdom with women everywhere which is the very intent of our Publication. www.goldenpublication.com
Submissions If you are interested in submitting your writing, recipes, designs, or stories to be highlighted in Golden Publication Magazine please email us at goldenpublicationmagazine@gmail.com All material must be formatted in Microsoft Word. Images must be in HD with a 300DPI.
Advertising Our business is your business. With that being said we offer several sizes of advertising slots starting at 150.00 and up. The Cover and Back Cover are also available for purchase. We offer business card size, quarter page, half page, whole page, and 2 pages. We have packages that can fit any of your business needs and budget. Please contact us today.
Models We are looking for Models of all sizes and ages. Men, Plus Size Men, Women, Plus Size Women, Children 5 and Up, and Senior Citizens. If you feel you have what it takes to be a feature in our Magazine please email us your name, age, size, height, city and state, phone number, and 2 photos (One Head Shot and One Full Body Shot). *Registration fee to Model with
Golden Publication Magazine is a nonrefundable fee of 150.00. This fee covers your application fee, first make over and various future photo-shoots. This is a onetime fee and you will not be asked to pay anymore fees or payments once you are selected as a Golden Publication Freelance Model. We are located in Houston, TX and cover the Greater Texas Area as well as Louisiana. All Shoots will take place in Texas or Louisiana unless we are doing a casting call in your city and state. Please email all submissions to goldenpublicationmagazine@gmail.com
Disclaimer Golden Publication is not responsible for the ideas and opinions of any of our bloggers, writers, or feature stories. We believe in “Freedom of Speech”, and although we may not always agree with the opinions of others, we understand everyone is entitled to their own thoughts and opinion and we give them an unfiltered platform to express themselves. However, if any material or articles directly violates you are your character please email us immediately and we will remove the article and will post a retraction in our next Volume. Visit us online @ www.goldenpublication.com
Jaymee Harrison “Strong Heart” By, Amanda Nicole
with tears running down my face. A million thoughts running through my mind at the same time I couldn’t keep it in any longer. I broke down and I prayed. I asked God to fix this, I asked why what have I done, I asked so many questions. The doctor made an appointment for Jaymee at Texas Children’s Hospital Cardiology. Jaymee was diagnosed with complete atrioventricular canal defect (CAVC). The definition according to www.heart.org is a large hole in center of the heart affecting all four chambers where they would normally be divided. When a heart is properly divided, the oxygenrich blood from the lungs does not mix with the oxygenpoor blood from the body. A CAVC allows blood to mix and the chambers and valves to not properly route the blood to each station of circulation. They did Jaymee’s surgery on May 31, 2012. It was the longest day of my life. All the doctors, all the sick babies, all the other worried parents are images I will never be able to get out of my mind. Having the feeling of not knowing what’s going to happen after they take your child from you is a feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone... I was scared... And I'm not afraid to say it... I found out who my real friends were and who really cared about me. We stayed in the hospital for almost two weeks due to a few complications. Jaymee had to have a blood transfusion, due to excessive blood loss, she also experienced pneumothorax, which they treated by giving her more oxygen.
On July 23, 2010 I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I was told she was perfectly healthy and it was one of the happiest days of my life. 3 months later the following October we went to the doctor for a regular checkup and her doctor was concerned with how fast her heart was beating. She scheduled an appointment with a cardiologist just to be safe. Jaymee was 3 months old and she seemed perfectly fine so as a mother I didn’t let myself get worked up about it. I honestly felt like it was a false alarm, but just like any mother would I went to the appointment. The doctors decided to do an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart). As the nurse was doing the echo I noticed a change in her demeanor. She immediately got up and went to get the doctor. He came in, examined the echo for a few minutes and the he looked at me and told me very calmly that Jaymee has a heart condition and would need an open heart surgery in order to live. At that moment it was as if my entire world came tumbling down all at once. You know it happens all the time, you know it’s possible, but as a mother you never think it can happen to your child. I stood there fighting to hold my composure
Our last day in the hospital the doctor came back and said that one of the valves in her heart had started to slowly bleed out again. I cried instantly for my child because I can't imagine as a mother putting her back through that again... But to be honest she was stronger than I was and
she held me together. Jaymee is an amazing kid and doesn’t let anything hold her back. I think the surgery made her a much stronger person. Today Jaymee takes medicine to monitor her blood pressure so that she doesn’t bleed out too much but I let her be a normal kid. Jamyee gets to do gymnastics, dance and cheerleading all, which she loves and we just watch her close for any signs that something may be wrong. She keeps all her doctor visits and she knows her own limitations. She has not let her struggles hold her back at all!!! She’s an amazing child who is stronger than most adults and I love her so much.
Editors comments: Jaymee is currently healthy and strong. She is a freelance children’s Model for Golden Publication Magazine as well as a cheerleader. She also participates in gymnastics. She is a strong little girl that has captured my heart. You can follow Jaymee’s progress and her sister Amiyah on Instragam @jaymee_amiyah
Photo provided by J.Golden Photography
I’m so nervous! This is the day that I have been waiting for since my teenage years. It’s th September 26 , 2014 and I am at First Hospital waiting for the surgery to begin. I am shaking inside; trying to put on a brave face for my mother, my husband, my son and all of my supporters who have spent countless hours talking to me about the benefits of the surgery. My mind is flooded with questions such as, "Will I be okay? How will they look? Is the pain really bad?" And then it happened. "Kerisha Mark!" the intake person yells and at this moment, my heart drops. I start to pray and my journey to my “new normal” begins. Countless days I lived in agony from the weight of my breasts; from the backaches, muscle spasms, chronic headaches, numbness in both arms, tingling in both arms and the crushing weight on my chest from falling asleep on my back. Yes, my sides were my best
friends. I will never forget the time that I thought I was having a heart attack. I panicked and drove myself to the emergency room where they pumped me with aspirin, only to find out that I pulled a muscle in my chest wall when I removed my bra. Or the time when I went to see my neurologist because I had a migraine for three straight weeks only to be told that maybe if I considered getting a breast reduction, it would take the pressure off of the nerve. I was prescribed medications of all kinds to help with the pain, from muscle relaxers to seizure medication for my headaches. Nothing seemed to relieve me, but I was determined not to go under the knife. Fear had taken over and - as a matter of fact - it consumed me. I would cry about the way I looked behind closed doors, but I would put on a full suit of armor to face the world. Sure, I was confident, but it was the agony of knowing that once I reached my destination, the whole conversation of my breasts would begin. I knew that I was a 36NNN, but the world reminded me daily that I was different. The constant stares, the insults and just wondering if I chose the right outfit would haunt me all the time. I would buy larger tops as well as garments that stretch and cardigans were my all-time favorite. I did a great job of masking the pain mentally and physically. Then, the day came when I noticed a lump under my arm. I was really frightened and
scared that it was cancer, but I made the appointment and awaited my results. As the day grew closer to find out, I told no one because at last this would be my opportunity to get the surgery and now I had a real reason other than vanity, so I thought to go forward. "The results are in, Mrs. Mark. What a relief!" the nurse says. "It’s only breast tissue that had nowhere else to go." The time had come for me to do something. I was over the pain, the embarrassment and just the sheer fact that my breasts had controlled my life for the last time. I had talked to several friends about the surgery and everyone had encouraged me and given me the names of their
Debbie Porter Photography
doctors, but one person stuck out in my mind and it was Jordan Dixon. I reached out to her because she too had suffered some of the things I was going through. You see, Jordan had
given me the name of her doctor (Dr. Franklin Rose) three years prior but I was scared, confused and had been denied by my insurance before. It wasn’t until I heard the same doctor's name again that I solidified my decision. I know, right? So many people, so many doctors, but this was a big decision for me. I went to visit Dr. Rose and (to my surprise) he was in pure shock when he saw me for the first time. He couldn’t believe I was able to carry that amount of weight on my chest with my small body frame. He asked several questions and decided he would take care of the surgery and also threw out the idea of contacting the media. I wasn’t concerned about the media; I was just shocked that someone wanted to help me. Dr. Rose scheduled the surgery as soon as possible but the fact that he had never operated on someone my size in over 30 years of practice (and he mentioned that I suffered from a rare condition called “Gigantomastia”)resonated with me. I had heard of the word before because my husband and I had researched the condition and (to my amazement) I looked like one of the women in the pictures. Gigantomastia is a rare medical condition that consists of breast connective tissue. Its indicator is breast weight that exceeds 3% of a person’s body weight. This condition caused my breasts to grow excessively at a rapid rate. I went from a 36H cup to an alarming 36NNN in a matter of three years. I
assumed that it was from a sudden weight gain and (unlike others) I gained my weight in my breasts. That was partly true, but unbeknownst to me it was due to a hormonal imbalance. It is easy to blame everything on genetics, but as women we must learn our bodies and start to take notice when things are changing. As women, we have learned to suffer in silence, but if you can relate to my story or have any symptoms mentioned above, you must seek professional help. Start to report and record all symptoms and research doctors that are educated in this field. Ask a ton of questions about your recovery time and how long the actual surgery is, and get family members to dedicate time to help you once you start your journey. Doctors will write letters on your behalf to ensure that you receive the best care and that you are recommended to the top medical professionals to obtain the best results. Remember that it can also take a toll on your mind as well. We only think of the physical change, but mentally (when you have a surgery where your entire look changes) it can affect you. It affected me because I was not used to looking down and not really seeing my breasts. It was like a bad/good divorce; I missed them but wanted them gone at the same time. My urge to shop left me because I wasn’t mentally prepared for the small clothes or the reaction from others. At 10:30 a.m., I was being prepped for surgery; the
news crew was in the room, my loved ones, my son, my husband and Dr. Rose. I made up an excuse to go to the bathroom and on my knees I went. The tears began to flow and the prayer started out like this: “Lord, please let this surgery go well and guide the surgeon's hands. Please let this surgery be a blessing for me and please let it inspire others in a good way. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen." Boy did my prayers get answered because I have never felt so good in my life. It was the best decision that I ever made and I am so grateful that I had such a strong support system of family and friends who loved me enough to pray for me and push me toward the pending goal I had on my list for years.
I can finally say, "Goal accomplished."
J.Golden Photography
Breast Cancer
Survivor Story: Bonnie Mitchell Sharing my story as a four time breast cancer survivor was not a consideration at this time last year, but then I was asked to do so as an encouragement to others. In 1985 was when my fight had truly begun when I learned that I was diagnosed with SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus), a mysterious autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This coupled with the news that my body had been further assaulted in the form of breast cancer was devastating. Either of these conditions are debilitating but being forced to accept this while getting back into the swing of motherhood 18 years after my first child was born required strength I did not know I had. My husband and I were raising our 4 year old daughter while I dealt with trying to address my Lupus flares. Times became difficult when flares sent me to the hospital. It was heartbreaking, that this disease was changing me on the outside and I was becoming unrecognizable to my own family. The cancer added another layer of concern as I struggled to accept it. But through it all, my husband, mother and son
were there to assist with my medical needs and caring for my daughter Kara. I was always the woman who was proactive about my health. I had a routine mammogram which I just knew would be just that, routine. But my life changed drastically when it was much more than that. I was told that I had carcinoma insitu. To be frank, I was not familiar with the terminology so, being the researcher that I am I wanted to know exactly what that meant. I remember going to the computer typing “carcinoma insitu” in the search box. All was blurred when I saw CANCER! I remember yelling out to my mother, “Ma! I got cancer!” How? Why? Those were my questions. The doctor ordered a biopsy and with the results he said that it could be monitored. He was rather nonchalant about it. I was so devastated and frankly disgusted that a medical professional would be so heartless and cold in giving this type information to a patient. Needless to say, I took my records so that I could get another opinion. I refused to listen and trust the opinion of the previous doctor. I contacted my Houston rheumatologist who was treating me for Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis and he referred me to two of his colleagues, an Oncologist and a surgeon. He immediately called both and I was seen within a week. The overwhelming concern was like night and day from what I received prior. After much consideration it was the consensus that I would have a partial mastectomy and auxiliary node dissection and thirty two lymph nodes were removed but the cancer had not spread. Some of the best information that I received from my doctor was of a personal nature. He advised me to never allow anyone physician or lay person to minimize my health concerns. At the end of the day I directed my treatment. I was encouraged by my rheumatologist, he had become a trusted counselor and friend. Accolades go to him for his support and the very knowledgeable and caring specialist that he referred me to.
While trying to understand the seriousness of my health issue I was trying to cope, accept and grieve the death of my only son just months prior. I was struggling emotionally at this point in my life. I was crying myself to sleep, when I would wake, and during the day. I was an emotional wreck. I remember snapping at my mother saying that she didn’t understand what it felt like to lose a child, when indeed she had; she had that experience with the demise of my brother not many years before. Seems I was never going to stop the grieving process, but I had to get up and fight for my life and not let the diagnosis of breast cancer take over me. Over the next few years, I continued routine mammograms every six months, but in 2002, unusual findings were discovered and the cancer had returned in the same breast. However, I opted for a complete mastectomy; no questions asked. This time, I couldn’t question it, be angry and depressed because there simply was no time. People often ask, even to this day, “How did your husband feel?” Why did you not have
love dearly never once, questioned my decision but was supportive and it never changed how he felt about who I am and what I mean to him.
About this time my mother suffered a massive stroke. This was the second stroke and it did much damage in that there was paralysis and her speech was impaired. Even though I knew I had not fully recovered from surgery, I had to get up and with the minimal strength I had would need to care for my mother. I was determined to get well so that I could maintain my role as her primary caretaker. My husband and niece were there also to aid in caretaking. My daughter, Kara was away at college, but during her visits home, she helped her grandmother as well. These were some of the most trying years. There were days when I was physically weak, overwhelmed emotionally, and said I couldn’t do it anymore. After years of caring for my mother in our home, it hurt so deeply but I had no choice but to admit her to a facility as the Lupus flares were and arthritis had begun to take a toll on my body. In 2006 my mother passed away. The pain of losing a parent then is no comparison to physical pain. However, I knew that God had not given up on me and that I had a story to share of His goodness. After my routine mammograms and oncology visits, I was a proud seven year survivor of breast cancer. Sadly my seven year survivorship came to an end and in 2008 cancer was discovered in the other breast. I elected to have a lumpectomy, continued monitoring and did not allow it to beat me.
J.Golden Photography
reconstruction? And politely but in true Bonnie Mitchell style my response is “these are not his breasts and not his body.” My husband, whom I
While living and loving life, I still had to battle Lupus with a smile even though the days seemed too much to bear. I had to try different medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and pain pills as I continue to fight. In 2014 I was cancer free for six years. My daughter was not in agreement with my decision to leave the physicians in Houston as she still had animosity from the early days of diagnosis. I sought doctors here in Beaumont and again she was supportive. In April of this same year during the mammogram, ultra
sound, and biopsy I would have to hear the word cancer for a fourth time and surgery was performed in May. My faith in God never wavered. Kara had a difficult time accepting my diagnosis but I knew that I had to keep her lifted and focused. I am so thankful for her being so attentive during this time. When she was unable to travel for the consultations she demanded to be face timed. She was however, with me for the surgery and treatments. These treatments were new to me and they were tiring, tedious and overwhelming. I was terrified, but I kept going. My husband and daughter were with me every day, all day and never left my side. Even in the midst of this time they were planning a surprise dinner to celebrate my turning 70 years old. The outpouring of love and support not only from them, but my family (from near and far) and many friends I received was unmeasurable. On October 1st I read Kara’s post on face book post said “Today kicks off breast cancer awareness month. This is special month for me because of my mother. Many know that she was a three time survivor over the years. But there are many who don’t know she is now a FOUR time survivor. She amazed me of how much of a fighter she is and she still kept her head up even though I couldn’t say the same. She was encouraging me and it was supposed to be the other way around. You never know how strong you really are until it’s time for you to take care of your parents. I am thankful that she is still here, cancer free once again and able to share her story.” God is good!!!” I am no longer in treatment but I am monitored closely and on a regiment of oral anticancer drugs. I am also thankful that Kara was tested due to my history and there were no mutations detected. This means that the abnormalities believed to be responsible for hereditary susceptibility to cancer have been ruled out. I give all praise and honor to God. He has brought me through so many times and not because I’ve been so good and kept his commandments but by His grace and mercy. I encourage all women to
be proactive treatments.
towards
early
detection
and
Bonnie Mitchell & Daughter Kara Mitchell
Donovan Ross “FASHION SAVANT”
Have you ever thought about your purpose and how it impacts your life? Born on August 6, 1974 in Houston, Texas. I was the youngest of four. My love for fitness unlike fashion came at very young age. Living in South Park (Sunnyside) Houston, Texas my mother made it a point for us to be active in sports. Although my Mother and stepfather did not have the time nor the financial resources to place me and my siblings in organized sports we knew that we were not like the average kids in the neighborhood. My siblings and I would compete with other children at any and everything that had something to do with sports. However, when it rained or I was wasn’t allowed to go outdoors, I would find refuge in Art. My brother and I would watch Saturday morning cartoons and would draw what we saw on the television. However, when there were no more cartoons we would wait for the T.V show Soul Train to come on. Watching them dance down the Soul Train line we would look at the outfits they wore and get excited. The Dancers on Soul train and the way our fancy and oh so fabulous Mother dressed opened my eyes to a whole new world. Yet, I still wasn’t interested into fashion. On Sundays we would visit my grandfather who would always tell my brothers and me how important it was for young men to look clean. He also said as we get older, we need to own suits and ties. My grandfather would take my brothers and me into his room and show us his suit, tie and shoe collection. My grandfather was from Louisiana and traveled often, many times to New
Orleans. He would say, “Real men know how to stay clean and dress”. As the years went by I saw how my siblings invested both time and money into their image and I began to observe the attention that they were getting especially my brother, who was or thought he was a fashion icon. Throughout the years my family battled through both drug and alcohol addictions. We moved around a great deal. Eventually, I moved with my grandmother. While living with my grandmother she would tell me stories on how both my biological father and grandfather were the two cleanest men around. My mother would confirm the story and always add the statement “Clean shoes, clean teeth and clean clothes makes for a good man.” We didn’t have the financial means to purchase what we wanted via fashion, so I took the hand me downs from my brothers and started creating my look. My sister had a summer job and would tell me “Frog (nickname) you should dress better, because it just looks better. Being that my sister and I were only 10 months apart, her friends were my friends, so I listened. Stylist Donovan Ross, Photos by J.Golden Photography
By the time I became a junior in high school, image became vitally important and I got into the fashion scene (Cross Colors, Addidas, Jordans, and etc.) Now that I was senior I had the desire to become a Designer and my dream was to get into either Savannah College of Art and Design located in Savannah, Georgia or stay here and attend The Art Institute of Houston (AIH). My continued education was a must for me, however, the money was scarce and I had an important decision to make. I decided to join the military. However, I didn’t want to join any service branch I wanted to join what was considered the best. Therefore, I joined the United States Marine Corps. I liked the Marine Corps because I can look sharp in uniform, stay fit, travel the World, and last but not least pay for my own education. This was perfect. In June 93’ I joined in The U. S. Marine Corps. I remained in The U. S. Marine Corps for 20yrs. Throughout that time I traveled to over 10 countries, multiple states, but most importantly I was able to see fashion from different aspects, demographics, cultures. I started taking notes (before cell phones, internet, Google etc.) on the different styles that I saw rather I liked or disliked them. I stayed into fashion and even took on a second job working at Ralph Lauren where I obtained the love of being neat and organized. While working there we had a dress code, much like the military where as we had to were Ralph Lauren/Polo products. Throughout my career in the military I received orders to train Reservists in my hometown. I returned to Houston, Texas in April 2006. My return to Houston meant that I could follow my passion and enroll into the AIH, so I did. Although I was following my dream to attend school, I still wasn’t pursuing my purpose. I enrolled into school but not into the Fashion program it was for Interior Design. I was super excited about starting my classes. Due to military commitments I was unable to complete my studies.
After multiple moves, missions and operations I decided to step out on Faith and pursue my passion(s) of both obtaining a degree in Art as well as being a Fitness Trainer. In November. 29 2012, I decided that it was time to have Faith and allow God to order my steps, and He did just that. I quickly enrolled into the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) and after multiple conversations with my Mother, close friends and relatives I retired from the U. S. Marine Corps. Exactly one month after I retired my mother passed away and I could her saying “Real men trust in God, take care of themselves, their families and stay sharp both physically and mentally”. Therefore I decided that I was going to begin by making difference to both self and others. Although it was difficult and somewhat extreme I remained enrolled into both the ISSA program and the Art Institute of Houston. I enrolled in AIH Jan 2014, but this time under the Design and Technical Graphics program which quickly changed it Fashion Design. After multiple sessions of pressed palms and scratched knees I was given the answer and the vision. I decided to merge my two Worlds and get the same results, which were peace and purpose. After 20+ years I was finally right where I need to be and at the right time. I was pursuing my purpose and walking in Faith.
Cultivating Courage Houston area organization ‘Cultivate Courage Project’ empowering women and spreading the message of hope By, April Treadwell When Lisa Denae, R&B singer and founder of The Cultivate Courage project, reached out to her friends on social media asking for volunteers for a campaign she had in mind, she had no idea what an outpouring of love she would receive. One connection, in particular, being a close friend. Latonya Kizzee, native Houstonian and retiree, felt a tugging at her heart to be of service to others. Lisa’s call for help with this project would be an answered prayer for both women. Kizzee, Program Director of Cultivate Courage, has always felt that helping people who are distressed was her true calling in life. “I am very passionate about assisting others to change a bad situation into a positive one.” Kizzee enjoys empowering others through motivating them to find courage from within. Cultivate Courage was born of Lisa’s desire to help herself as well as through her utilizing her gift for writing as a form of release. “After having my children, I discovered that in order to break the cycle of violence in my life, I had to deal with my past once and for all.” Lisa began to write in her journal. “When I wrote, it gave me a sense of freedom. I understood that this story is mine and I don’t have to hide it. I don’t have to be ashamed of it. I can use my story to help someone else.” This led to Lisa’s first published work: ‘The Cultivate Courage Journal’. This journal is meant to be used to give hope to domestic violence victims with its inspirational quotes, as well as be used as a tool for journaling their own thoughts and stories to help inspire the courage to overcome.
Image by Don Mills
Along with Kizzee, Lisa launched the ’65 in 365’ campaign. “In this campaign we will visit 65 domestic violence shelters in 365 days to offer hope, encouragement and love to the women and children residing there.” However, for Lisa and Latonya, it isn’t just about spreading the message, it is also their goal to help women to rebuild. “I want to show these women that, not only can they survive but they can thrive!” Lisa states with a sparkle in her eyes. As part of the campaign, they will be speaking, as well as giving domestic violence shelter residents copies of ‘The Cultivate Courage Journal’.
These women are reaching out to shelters in order to fulfill their campaign’s goals, but are also taking requests. If your shelter or organization would like to be a part of the 65 in 365 campaign, they would like to hear from you! “Confidentiality is extremely important to us. We will never give out information about specifics of shelters we visit, their locations nor information about any of the women and children we come in contact with.” states Latonya. For more information or to find out how you can help Cultivate Courage you may contact:
LaTonya Kizzee, Program Director Email latonyakizzee@yahoo.com Phone: (832) 892-7676
Brian K. Walker, founder of Brian Keith Productions, is one of Houston’s most creative and innovative Celebrity Event Producers. Brian has brought his considerable talents to corporate and high-end social events. In addition, he has lent his expertise to an array of fall festivals, premier fashion and hair shows, and weddings. With over 10 years of experience in event planning, Brian brings his own unique sense of style and his knowledge of the latest industry trends to each event he presents. His seasoned, youthful and dynamic team of professionals collaborates to seamlessly make each event an unforgettable experience. He credits his business success to his sensitivity to his clients’ needs and his desire to make every event an unforgettable experience. Brian Keith Productions business clients include: M.E.N. Inc., Let The Fashion’s Begin; Men of Style, Breast Cancer Survivor Make-Over Photo Shoot; Celebration of Life, Pop Recording Artist; Kat St. John, Fidelity National Title Agency, Gospel Recording Artist; Regina Murff, ALC Church, NFL Offensive Tackle; Russell Okung, Author; Dorothy Okung and Author; Kim Bady just to name a few.
Photography by LeWebster Lacy
Brian has also had the opportunity to work with Dwight Eubanks; Housewives of Atlanta, Funky Larry Jones; Majic 102, JJ Simmons; 97.9 The Box, Vivica A. Fox; Actress/Producer, LAMIK Beauty and The International Risotto Festival amongst other’s. Brian Keith and Brian Keith Productions have been featured in Beautifully Said Magazine and Houston Style Magazine. At Brian Keith Productions, their goal is to make each clients’ “dream a reality.” Website: www.briankeithproductions.com Email: Info@briankeithproductions.com Phone: 281-739-9399 Social Media: Facebook – Brian Keith Productions Photography by Priceless Photos
Karen Gooden Pazazz Accessories & Handbags
has officially been in business for approximately one year. Karen was actually introduced to the Traci Lynn Accessories collection over three years ago at the Houston Black Expo. Karen was initially only interested in the distinct fashion accessories and eventually became interested in becoming a consultant. Notable facts are that Traci Lynn Accessories are bold and comprised of cubic zirconia, Austrian crystals and rhodium plating and price point that ranges from $28.00 through $60.00. Traci Lynn is also a black owned business with consultants throughout the US and also a member of the DSA (Direct Selling Association). This line of accessories is extremely popular on the East Coast as the owner, designer and CEO is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Karen currently does vendor events, fashions shows, catalog sales and in home parties featuring Traci Lynn fashion jewelry. Traci Lynn offers a full line of accessories to compliment any women’s business or casual attire. Everyone that you meet is your potential customer and wearing your jewelry is your easiest selling tactic. If you choose to join Traci Lynn you can work the business as a full time consultant or part time. If you choose to host an in home party or catalog party you can earn free accessories.
You can view the line of accessories via www.tracilynnjewelry.net/14400. If you have questions regarding a specific item please contact Karen Gooden via 281-799-1176. Access to the private Facebook group “Pazazz Accessories & Handbags” is available upon request.
Bullying Ends Now!!! My name is Olevia Henderson, founder/CEO of B.E.N. (Bullying Ends Now) I'm a mother of seven - five girls and two boys. My family moved to Houston, Texas over 8 years ago from Shreveport, Louisiana. It was a good judgment call for my kids’ education-wise and job stability for myself. Since being in Texas, a lot has happened - some good and some bad - I believe the worst being November 19th, 2013 when my daughter was lured to the apartments by our home and viciously attacked and beaten by a socalled friend. That assault was recorded by a group of kids and the video of my daughter being punched in the face and kicked in the eye went viral. As a mother, no one wants to see their child hurt. My daughter thought of these girls as friends as they had been to our home and hung out together, but who knew that she would become a victim of bullying from different levels? See, from that video, she was not only bullied and made fun of in the neighborhood, but she was cyber-bullied as well and called all kinds of names by kids and adults. All this because a young man bought my daughter some candy and her friend liked him which made her feel betrayed. The Bullying has gotten to be on another level because my daughter has been mocked online; in schools; by local rappers, celebrities and even comedians joined in making fun of the assault. She was forced to leave school and attend home schooling. Still to this day I ask myself, "What did someone find funny about that?" My child was hurt and could have lost her eyesight. I knew I had to do something. I stayed on the police and the DA. We did many television interviews, one being with the Huffington Post. I did not stop until she was arrested and justice was served. However, I ask the question daily, "Was justice served?" I felt it wasn't because she only received 2 years' probation and had to attend anger management classes, but she didn't have to apologize for her choices or actions. Now, the other young lady that actually lured my daughter there was never arrested or charged even when she admitted to her part. I knew this was only a slap on the wrist, so I knew I needed to do more. I have started my paperwork to become a
501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation, but in the meantime B.E.N. (Bullying Ends Now) will continue to help those in the community. Our goal is to bring awareness and solutions to end this problem. Many are blinded by this, but here are some proven facts about bullying in America (taken from nobullying.com*): Bullying is a problem in U.S. schools, but just how much of a problem is it? The latest bullying statistics of 2014 reflect bullying in “real life,” as well as cyber bullying. The numbers related to any bullying statistics are both shocking and disheartening. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) anti-bullying website, Stopbullying.gov, bullying is defined as “intentionally aggressive, usually repeated” verbal, social or physical behavior aimed at a specific person or group of people. Some bullying actions are considered criminal (such as harassment or hazing), but “bullying” alone is not illegal and recent news stories abound with tales of cyber-bullying – where the target is harassed through social media or other technology – that have unfortunately resulted in victims’ suicides. The majority of bullying still takes place at school; one in three U.S. students say they have been bullied at school, according to the DHHS. More shocking bullying statistics for 2014 follow: According to a UCLA psychology study, bullying boosts the social status and popularity of middle school students. Psychologists studied 1,895 students at 11 middle schools, where students were asked to name the students who were considered the “coolest." According to Jaana Juvonen, the lead author of the study,
ones
who
are
(cool)
bully
“The more”
• Twenty percent of U.S. students in grades 9-12 reportedly have experienced bullying or are feeling bullied, while 28 percent of students in grades 6-12 report the same. Experts agree that most incidences of bullying occur during middle school. • According to one study cited by the DHHS, 29.3 percent of middle school students had experienced bullying in the classroom; 29 percent experienced it in hallways or lockers; 23.4 percent were bullied in the cafeteria; 19.5 percent were bullied during gym class and 12.2 percent of bullied kids couldn't even escape the torture in the bathroom.
• Most of the students in the study reported namecalling as the most prevalent type of bullying, followed by teasing, rumor-spreading, physical incidents, purposeful isolation, threats, belongings being stolen and sexual harassment. Surprisingly, cyber-bullying occurred with the least frequency. • 70.6 percent of teens have seen bullying occurring in their schools – and approximately 30 percent of young people admit to bullying themselves. With so many students seeing what goes on, one has to wonder why bullying proliferates – especially since the DHHS reports that bullying stops within 10 seconds 57 percent of the time when someone intervenes. Juvonen found in her study that “a simple message, such as ‘Bullying is not tolerated,’ is not likely to be very effective” and that effective anti-bullying programs need to focus on the bystanders who can step in and stop the behavior. Unfortunately, children and teens who are considered “different” from their peers are the most frequent targets of bullies and are constantly bullied. Special needs students; lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students; students who are overweight and students who are perceived as “weak” are the most likely targets of bullying by others. Nine out of ten LGBT youth report being verbally bullied because of their sexual orientation, while 55.2 percent of those students reported being cyber-bullied. Of special needs students who report bullying, the majority of those who are victimized are students diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome and students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Our kids are starting to feel that now they have nowhere to turn and no one to help so they feel that taking their life is their only option. In recent years, a series of bullying-related suicides in the US and across the globe have drawn attention to the connection between bullying and suicide. Though too many adults still see bullying as "just part of being a kid," it is a serious problem that leads to many negative effects for victims including suicide. Many people may not realize that there is also a link between being a bully and committing suicide. The statistics on bullying and suicide are alarming: • Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people, resulting in about 4,400 deaths per year according to the CDC. For every suicide among young people, there are at least 100 suicide attempts. Over 14
percent of high school students have considered suicide and almost 7 percent have attempted it. • Bullying victims are between 2 to 9 times more likely to consider suicide than non-victims, according to studies by Yale University • A study in Britain found that at least half of suicides among young people are related to bullying • Ten to 14-year-old girls may be at even higher risk for suicide, according to the study above. • According to statistics reported by ABC News, nearly 30 percent of students are either bullies or victims of bullying and 160,000 kids stay home from school every day because of fear of bullying. Bullying-related suicide can be connected to any type of bullying including physical bullying, emotional bullying, cyber bullying and sexting or circulating suggestive or nude photos or messages about a person. This is why I feel my foundation will make a difference. Our plans are to educate parents and kids as to what to do in the event of being bullied and show our kids how to respond to and handle the situation, and teach others how to help those they see in need if being bullied. My overall goal is to get a bill to Congress that states if a child takes their life, then the person that caused it should be held accountable and charged. Most importantly, though, we plan to try to help the bully and see what it is that they are going through and why they feel the need to hurt others. See, I feel that if someone had taken the time with my daughter's bully, they would have known that she came from a broken home where her mother stated repeatedly that she didn't care what happens to her, so I would say she lashes out to hurt others. At the end of the day, I couldn't help her. I thank God for keeping my daughter. Although it's been over a year now, she has graduated from school and tries to live a normal life as much as possible. With God, I plan to help others and from becoming united with others that believe in my cause, I will be able to help get a step closer to ending bullying so that no one's child ends up like my daughter did. I can say that I forgave the bully; that is what keeps me going, knowing I learned about forgiveness. I owe that to God.
*The Essential Guide to Bullying Statistics 2014 and recent bullying percentages. (2014, December 14). Retrieved March 2, 2015, from http://nobullying.com/bullying-statistics-2014
Diva Chronicles “Color Blind” - Golden Diva As an African American Woman I know the dilemmas of straying away from my African American Kings, mainly because of loyalty and respect for my culture and race, even when our Kings pick other races of Women to be their Queens. I never strayed because I saw my Dad, a black Man, raise and provide for me and my sibling as well as be a good Husband to my Mother, a black Woman. I grew up seeing how two African Americans can love each other and teach us the fundamentals and traditional aspects of being “Black” in America. The songs, the dances, and the heritage is the main reason I wanted my future children to be raised by two African American Parents. But what if your dream is deferred or altered? As I grew older I realized quickly my ideal Man did not see me as his Ideal Woman. I would hear I was too thick, too bossy, and sometimes to “Black”. What does that mean? I was also told I was too aggressive, too head strong, and had too much an attitude which seems to be the definition of being “Too Black”. Lol…Although I am very head strong the right Man will appreciate it and love me for being the bossy, attitude having, head strong Black Woman that I am. I dated many Men in my lifetime and I must say I had an amazing 10 year marriage to a Black Man. He was a great person, but at the time I was still searching for who I was and what I wanted to be, so I left him to find me. After my divorce I meet Him while walking into the grocery store. I didn’t notice him, but he noticed me. He looked at me in such a way it made me blush and uncomfortable at the same time. He walked up and introduce himself as Tobias. I must admit Tobias was the type of Man that grabs your attention instantly. He had this swag about him that turned me on, but I had to catch myself because I didn’t want to be so attracted to a White Man. Yes, Tobias was Caucasian and wanted me. He asked for my number and I reluctantly gave it to him, but before he walked away and said “You are so beautiful”. Tobias and I starting dating and it was one of the most caring, loving, and respectful relationships I’ve ever experienced. I remember for the first two weeks of our relationship he would leave a dozen roses on my porch with a note that said “Go buy you something nice” and inside that
card was 2 one hundred dollar bills. This was the beginning to a very expensive, yet endearing
©mocker_bat/Fotolia.com
Color Blind (Continued) Friendship and Relationship. Dating Tobias taught me a lot, but most of all it taught me that love is color blind. Love doesn’t care what race you are. Love is an emotion, a feeling, and it’s also an action. When you have emotions for a persons you develop feelings and put into action your forms of Love. These forms of love are shown with the way you treat a person, the little things you do to make them smile, as well as being there for the good and bad times. When you truly love a person you don’t care about the little things that nag you with someone else. Love tends to make you blind to that person’s annoying flaws. Being in Love makes you see only the heart and not the color of the skin. Tobias introduce me to my very first Baseball game and many other things I had never experienced. It’s funny because he tried to show me all kind of new things, he even tried to make me taste squid for the first time and I almost passed out, but he had a backup plan and told them to fry it and instantly I was a Calamari fan. Today Calamari is one of my favorite appetizers. If I didn’t meet Tobias those many years ago I would have never known my choices to be happy could extend outside the “Black Box”. Although, I didn’t marry Tobias are still very good friends and speak on occasions. I really wish black women
© Monkey Business/Fotolia.com
can see past color and look at the heart, the character, and the Man. We as Black Woman are so loyal to the Black Man sometimes to a default. We are the highest percentage of single Women/Mothers in America. Don’t you think it’s time to venture out past your own race and just see if you can finally find what you are looking for? Currently, I’m in love with a Nigerian Black Man and he’s loves me back, but it took a white Man to show me that I am beautiful just the way I AM and it will take a Real Man to recognize that and Love me unconditionally. I have found that with a Black Man.
ARE YOU READY TO GO COLOR BLIND? (Black Men Have Been Color Blind for Years) ______________________________________________
Diva Chronicles “Color Blind” Written by, Golden Diva