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AFRICA USA TODAY MAGAZINE

Politicosocionomics of World Peace

www.africaustodaymag.com 312/880-7016 November/ December 2017 U.S.- $4.99 Canada- $5.99 London- 3 Pounds

Babyface wows Urban League’s Annual Dinner Fundraiser

Chicago Urban League Fellowship Dinner Africa News Congressman Davis 7th Annual Congressional Awards Gala Doing Business in Africa: Corporate Council of Africa

Events

Book & Media Club Kwanzaa Celebration

NENA Media PRESS KIT 2017

NENA COSMETICS

Lorena "NENA" Mondonedo-Perez Talented, imaginative and a whole lot of heart and soul, Lorena "NENA" Mondonedo-Perez is a spirit that touches every person that she meets. Known to her friends and family as “Nena”, she is the founder and CEO of Nena Cosmetics by Nena Brands, Inc.—the first ever born and raised Filipina-owned cosmetics line in the United States.

It is ultimately Nena’s endearing qualities that have allowed her to pursue a lifelong dream, one that has taken ten years to come into fruition.

Nena’s exposure to business and a life of privilege was because of her father’s entrepreneurial spirit, and her mother’s positive impact on the family.

Her late father, ROBERTO L. MONDONEDO, is a mining engineer, Founder/President of MIDEX Phils and USA, a five star multimillion dollar drilling contractor company and sole owner of Apple Gold Mines in Baguio City, Philippines. While her mother, LILIA B. MONDONEDO, is a retired attorney, who ran a reputable law firm, Mondonedo and Associates in Makati. Nena is the second out of 4 daughters Leila, Liza and Lahaina and the only brother Roberto Jr. referred to as “Butch”.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Lorena was taught early-on about the importance of discipline, determination and perseverance through hard work. At the tender age of 15, Lorena was already an accomplished golfer. It was her strong will and fortitude that led her to become a young golf champion. This experience early in her life was an indication that she was determined to do great things.

After graduating high school from International School in Makati, Lorena moved to the United States to pursue a higher education. She attended College of St Benedict in St Joseph, MN for the first two years and then transferred to Barat College in Lake Forest where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. While in her junior year of college, Lorena was given the opportunity by her entrepreneurial father to own and manage a deli shop located in the northern suburb of Chicago. Without hesitation, Lorena took on this task. With the help of her sisters, Lorena successfully managed and operated her first business at a young age of eighteen years old.

Although the deli shop was a profitable business, Lorena had other plans in mind. She wanted new challenges. It was then that she worked as an Accountant for Premier Beauty Supply where she learned about the ins and outs of the beauty industry. She knew then that this was a trade that was more suitable for her. It allowed her to develop her passion for beauty and to work alongside makeup artists, skin-care specialists and hair stylists throughout the industry.

After six long years of working for Premier Beauty Supply, Lorena took a leap of faith and left her management job to train as a MAC makeup artist. As a certified makeup artist, Lorena was finally able to express her creative side. Her passion and talent was finally unleashed. And with her background in business management along with her talent in artistry, her peers began to notice that this explosive combination along with her vivacious personality is exactly what is needed in this ever-growing business.

Over a span of her 22 year career in the beauty industry, Lorena held several management positions for prominent companies such as Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon & Spa in Deerfield, where she was awarded the Midwest Regional Manager of the Year Award for two consecutive years. After two years in the Deerfield location, she was promoted to the Chicago flagship branch on Michigan Avenue. Lorena successfully managed 175 technicians and grew revenue to over $5 million in her first year.

More recently, she was the Spa Director at Midtown Athletic Club in Bannockburn where she led a $2 million renovation project of the facility. She also spearheaded a number of fundraising events that supported charities such as Susan G. Komen For the Cure, Locks for Love, and the Highland Park Family Counseling Services. She also collaborated with local agencies such as the Chamber of Commerce to promote Midtown’s newly renovated spa and fitness facility. But despite the many contributions to the local communities and her collaborations with local agencies, it was her effective management style that ultimately resulted in Midtown’s growth by more than 25% in revenue within three years, the most growth they have seen since they had opened their doors over 20 years ago!

Armed with her decades of experience, a long list of accomplishments, a Masters in Esthetics from the Skin Care and Spa

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PUBLISHER’S OPINION

Happy Holidays!

Olawale Idreez, Publisher My Dream Sky-Jet named “Ambition” Publisher's Publisher's opinion opinion for for Xmas Xmas special special edition edition of of Africa-USA Africa-USA Today Today Magazine.

Magazine. will always always cherish II will cherish these these powerful powerful & & inspirational inspirational songs songs of of praising praising the the Almighty Almighty God, God, my my Creator; Creator; through through my my Lord Lord & & my my Savior, my my Redeemer, Redeemer, my my Reason Reason for for the the Season, Season, my my Joy, Joy, my my Salvation, Salvation, my my Healer Healer Divine, Divine, my my Handsome Handsome Man Man of of Galilee, Galilee, my my Savior, Soon-Coming-King, my Song & Praises, my Faith-Hope-Love, The Captain of my Ship, my Shepherd...,...my JESUS CHRIST Soon-Coming-King, my Song & Praises, my Faith-Hope-Love, The Captain of my Ship, my Shepherd...,...my JESUS CHRIST (for (for without Him, Him, I'm I'm nobody, nobody, but but with with Him, Him, I'm I'm alive!). alive!). Thank Thank You, You, Sir......You Sir......You Are Are Too Too Awesome!

Awesome! without II thank for my my family, family, for for they they have against me doing justice to juicy, delicious drumsticks havequalms any qualms against in doing justice the humongous, delicious thank God God for they don’t have any any qualms against me in inme doing justice to the thetohumongous, humongous, juicy,juicy, delicious drumsticks of the big bird (Turkey on the dinner table). drumsticks of the big bird on the dinner table). of the big bird (Turkey on (Turkey the dinner table).

There are are so so many many things things to to be be thankful thankful about, about, despite despite so so many many cruel, cruel, reckless, reckless, abominable, abominable, and and unnecessary unnecessary atrocities atrocities we, we, There There are so many things to be thankful about, despite so many cruel, reckless, abominable, and unnecessary atrocities we human beings human being often found ourselves, that triggered some people to give up on life, and resolved to terminate other peoples' human being often found ourselves, that triggered some people to give up on life, and resolved to terminate other peoples' often find ourselves, that triggered some people to give up on life,and resolved to terminate other people’s precious lives recklessly.

In precious lives recklessly.

Inspite of that, there are still other human being that are kind enough to show 'agape' love towards precious lives recklessly. Inspite of that, there are still other human being that are kind enough to show 'agape' love towards spite of that , there are still other human beings that are kind enough to show “agape” love towards other fellow human beings.

A case other fellow fellow human human beings. beings. A A case case in in point, point, Texas Texas Police Police highway highway troopers, troopers, that that were were giving giving holiday holiday Turkey Turkey to to drivers drivers on on the thein other point is, the Texas Highway troopers, that were giving Holiday Turkeys to drivers on the highway.

Another is the Chicago Police Officer, highway.

Or Chicago Police officer, who his marrow Toa young child.

I think it simply doesn't get any better who highway.

Orbone Chicago Police who Idonated donated his bone bone marrow Toa young child. donated his marrow to a officer, young child. think it simply doesn’t get any better than that!I think it simply doesn't get any better than than that! that!

Thank you you all all for for supporting supporting this this humble humble vision vision of of Africa-USA Africa-USA Today Today Magazine Magazine publication; publication; for Thank for without without you, you, there there is is no no us. us.

This edition is dedicated to Mr. John E. Smith, Jr; Editor-in-chief; for his unrelenting and dedication to the success of this This edition is dedicated to Mr. John E. Smith, Jr; Editor-in-chief; for his unrelenting and dedication to the success of this publication, Africa-USA Africa-USA Today Today Magazine.

Magazine. Thank Thank you, you, John!

John! publication, Happy holidays! holidays!

Happy Please enjoy this special special Christmas Christmas edition! edition!

Please enjoy this Olawale Idreez, Idreez, Publisher Publisher Olawale Africa-USA Today Magazine Africa-USA Today Magazine Email: usafriglo@yahoo.com Email: usafriglo@yahoo.com

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EXEC. MARKETING DIRECTOR/ PUBLIC RELATIONS DR. STACEE LANG EXECUTIVE MARKETING EDITOR RAQUEL LACOUR

REGIONAL EDITOR ADEMOLA LAWAL

FASHION CONSULTANT KEYY LANG

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

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Robert L. Scott Sr. Photography

Contents

JOHN E. SMITH JR. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Celebrating the Holiday Spirit!

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In this issue we continue to celebrate the holiday spirit & annual celebrations that have arrived this season. We look forward to an opportunity to enjoy some of the amazing things to see & do that have arrived such as the Annual Thanksgiving & Christmas parades.

We hope you are making the most of this Season.

Happy Holidays!

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EVENTS

Photography-John E. Smith Jr.

Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner Shines Light on Race and Equity; Raises $2 Million in Funds for Critical Programs Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds Puts ‘Whip Appeal’ on Adoring Fans

CHICAGO, Nov. 5, 2017 – On Saturday night, nearly 1,600 supporters gathered at the Chicago Urban League’s 56th Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner to usher in the organization’s 101st year of service to Chicago’s African-American community.

Hosted by comedian Damon Williams, the event raised $2 million and culminated with an unforgettable performance by Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.

Emphasizing the theme “Beyond 100: Together We Matter,” Chicago Urban League President and CEO Shari Runner reminded the crowd of business leaders, clergy, human rights advocates, philanthropists and elected officials to play an active role in preventing social injustices from “occurring – and reoccurring -- with frightening frequency.”

“Each of us in this room can be a leader,” said Runner. “You don’t have to be President, or Governor, or Mayor, or CEO to do what’s right and improve lives in our city. You just need to remain committed and focused. We just need to stay woke.”

The night was filled with historic moments including the presentation of the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award to James D. Montgomery, Sr., noted civil rights attorney and community activist. The Lester H. McKeever, Jr. Individual Service Award was presented to retired State Senator Emil Jones, Jr., progressive legislator, and long-time proponent of social justice and fair funding of public education.

As chronicled in videos featuring impacted clients, funds raised from the dinner will support the Chicago Urban League’s programs, which serve more than 15,000 Chicago residents annually, including the Youth Development Center, Workforce Development, Housing and Financial Empowerment, Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the IMPACT Leadership Development.

This year’s Dinner Co-Chairs were James P. Kolar, Central Market Managing Partner, PwC and Stephen W. Beard, General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer, Heidrick & Struggles, Inc. “The League’s outspokenness and advocacy over the years has drawn praise and applause from some but has also drawn the ire of others,” said Runner. “My team and I continue the League’s legacy. We remain driven by our mission to pursue socioeconomic justice for those who do not have it, and we are willing to put everything we have into the effort.”

For more information about the Chicago Urban League centennial, visit CUL100.org. For general information, go to www.TheChicagoUrbanLeague.org.

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Photography-John E. Smith Jr.

EVENTS

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EVENTS

Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner

Photography-John E. Smith Jr

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Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner

EVENTS

Photography-John E. Smith Jr.

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EVENTS

Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner

Photography-John E. Smith Jr

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Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner

EVENTS

Photography-John E. Smith Jr.

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Seventh Annual Congressional Awards Gala 2017

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Seventh Annual Congressional Awards Gala 2017

RT. HON. MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA

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Dr. Collins Awosika wishes a Happy Birthday to

SPECIAL ads BIRTHDAY GREETINGS FULL PAGE, COLOR FOR THE "RT, HONORABLE MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA" INSTRUCTION: 1. The Lagos State Speaker of the House of Assembly's Photos of him; Dr. Collins Awosika; and Dr. Olawale Idreez (nice photo), too; CONGRATULATING the distinguished Speaker Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa. (Please avoid typo-errors). Thanks.

Rt. Honorable Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa

2. MESSAGE THAT ACCOMPANIES THE 3 Photos: Happy Birthday To Our Award Winning Speaker Of The Year, R.T (Honorable) MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA; who bags the Most Distinguished United States Congressional, and Global Golden Eagle Award, at the Annual Congressman Danny K. Davis's 2017 International Communities Heroes Awards in USA. The annual extravagance ceremony was organized by none other than Chicago, Illinois-based Mega-Newspaper, Indian Tribune.

Africa-USA Today 22 AFRICA USAMagazine TODAY extends sincerely congratulations to all the 2017 Winners and Awardees.

Kind regards,

RIGHT HONORABLE MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA SPEAKER, LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE HE IS MEMBER OF ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS PARTY IN NIGERIA BORN NOVEMBER 11, 1972, IS MARRIED WITH CHILDREN EDUCATION: Leadership Training, Cambridge University, UK Certificate Course on Legislation, UK parliament Nigerian Law School, (2007) Bachelor of Law, Lagos State University (2006) He is a Lawyer and Legislator PREVIOUS ELECTED OFFICE: HON. MEMBER (5TH, 6TH AND 7TH ASSEMBLIES: 2003 – 2015) COUNCILLOR (1999-2003) PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS: Zonal Chairman, UNCP (Alaagba Zone, Agege) AWARDS AND HONOURS: 1. Legislator of the Year, Podium Recognition Awards 2016 by Podium International, 10th Anniversary 2. Evergreen Lawmaker of the Year 2016 by APC Volunteers Lagos Award of Excellence 3. Omoluabi/Ambassador Ile Asofin Rere (OAIAR) by the Yoruba Community (Egbe Omo Oduduwa), Naples, Italy.

4. True Son of Islam Award 2016 by CITINET international 5. Best House of Assembly Speaker 2016 by Global Excellence 6. Speaker of the Year 2016 by City People Magazine 7. Outstanding Leaders Award by Christian Coalition Against Corruption 8. Award of Landmark for Community Support Initiative by Orchard Media 9. Man of the Year Award by Agege Awards Organisation 10. Mentorship/Leadership Award by R&A City Hotel, Ikeja Committee of Friends 11. Certificate of Excellence by the State of Georgia, USA

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Africa USA Today

Helping More Homebuyers

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Terms and conditions may vary. Subject to underwriting approval. Property and Flood Insurance (if applicable) will be required. Talk to your TFSB Banker for more information.

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Shana Jones

Mortgage Banker, NMLS# 232839 direct: (312) 871-3460 fax: (312) 871-3480 cell: (312) 907-7171 sjones@thefederalsavingsbank.com www.thefederalsavingsbank.com/shanajones Copyright 2017 © The Federal Savings Bank | Co. NMLS#411500 | All Rights Reserved | thefederalsavingsbank.com

Be on the Show!

Be a Part of the Studio Audience | November 16th @ 8am or 1pm You are invited to make history with us by being a part of the LIVE studio audience taping of the #DrCarolynShow in Chicago on 11.16.17. There will be 2 Tapings on that day. Show A is “I survived” and Show B is “2nd Chances” Learn more about the show at www.DrCarolynShow.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DrCarolynShow

AFRICA USA TODAY 29

Book Club

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Book Club Features

Finding Oprah's Roots: Finding Your Own

by Henry Louis Gates Jr. 3.65 ·

Rating Details · 60 Ratings · 15 Reviews

Finding Oprah's Roots will not only endow readers with a new appreciation for the key contributions made by history's unsung but also equip them with the tools to connect to pivotal figures in their own past. A roadmap through the intricacies of public documents and online databases, the book also highlights genetic testing resources that can make it possible to know one's distant tribal roots in Africa.

For Oprah, the path back to the past was emotion­filled and profoundly illuminating, connecting the narrative of her family to the larger American narrative and "anchoring" her in a way not previously possible. For the reader, Finding Oprah's Roots offers the possibility of an equally rewarding experience.

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NEWS VIEW ALL FELLOWS >

Painter Visualizing the complexities of globalization and transnational identity in works that layer paint, photographic imagery, prints, and collage elements.

Los Angeles, CA

Historian Illustrating the role of centuries of transnational migration in the present-day social and cultural dynamics of South and Southeast Asia.

Cambridge, MA 36 AFRICA USA TODAY

NEWS

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NEWS

2017 MacArthur Fellowships

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NEWS

2017 MacArthur Fellowships

AFRICA USA TODAY 39

Helping More Homebuyers

Parkway Bank has partnered with The Federal Savings Bank, a federally-chartered bank owned by military veterans, giving you access to competitive mortgage rates and a full suite of mortgage products.

Down Payment Assistance

Portfolio Products

$1,000 or 1% of the loan value can get you a home!* Ask us about receiving down payment or closing cost assistance and we can help you identify the programs in your area that you will qualify for.

Specifically designed to help our builder partners and their clients achieve the dream of homeownership!

Express Loan Approval Get a fully underwritten file that can get the clear-to-close quickly when you find the home for you. In today’s market, there is a lack of inventory. This is resulting in many multiple offer situations. With our Express Loan Approval Program, your offers will stand above the rest!

IHDA* The perfect solution for borrowers who have limited funds for down payment, yet have the financial means to maintain monthly mortgage payments.

For more information, please contact :

Condos With Multiple Non Warrantable Investors, open lines of communication with all three agencies (FNMA, FHLMC, and HUD), and direct selling capabilities, The Federal Savings Bank is your resource for Condo Lending!

Jumbo We offer a wide array of jumbo products that few other lenders are able to provide.

*Content provided by www.IHDA.org. Eligibility criteria applies and is subject to change by IHDA. Down payment/closing cost assistance and income tax credit provided by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

Terms and conditions may vary. Subject to underwriting approval. Property and Flood Insurance (if applicable) will be required. Talk to your TFSB Banker for more information.

Shana Jones

Mortgage Banker, NMLS# 232839 direct: (312) 871-3460 fax: (312) 871-3480 cell: (312) 907-7171 sjones@thefederalsavingsbank.com www.thefederalsavingsbank.com/shanajones

Mortgages Powered By

THE FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK

Copyright 2016 Š The Federal Savings Bank | Co. NMLS# 411500 | All Rights Reserved | thefederalsavingsbank.com

Africa USA Magazine Salutes Latino Fashion Week 10th Anniversary Photography- John E. Smith Jr.

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AFRICA NEWS Africa News

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AFRICA Africa NEWS News

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Events

African Festival of the Arts

John E. Smith Jr. Photography

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