#IAMBEAUTY “Because every woman is the standard of Beauty”
Love Life enough to Love Yourself Be A Natural Woman
Natural Woman Magazine Contributors for Back to School 2015
Azizah Nubia Editor in Chief L.G. Hillman Marketing Stacey Lee Layout Editor Vernell Dillingham Photography Nikita Anderson Photography Written Contributions Fatima Gaskins Trazana Staples Michaela Raffaele Ashlely Wilson Aaron Russell Glamorous Faces Make up & Hair Production Devine Unique Designs Wardrobe AZ 8 Media Promotions For advertising opportunties please visit www.asknaturalwoman.com Natural Woman Magazine Š 2012-2015
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31
R r e Yis
22
tep o aH
19
GMOs
17
Fat Girl Natural Woman Fashion Show
15
Culture Courses
13
On the road w/ KASSIE
12
#BlackLivesMatter Sam Dubose
e
8
Girl Talk w/ Nerissa Irving
ess B
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outiq u
M lH od air el Sty les for Col
tt he
Busin
Nat ur a
M ee
Table of Content 37
Meet the Model Name – Dawndrenique Harris Age – 17 Name of College and College Level – Xavier University &’ Freshman Major – Communications & Educations How did homeschooling help you?– It helped by creating a schedule that was flexible with my learning abilities. I work at A fast pace so my family knew I had more to offer and was smarter thenn I was preceding myself to be. What do you want to do for your career? I would like too be an advocate for teenagers with self harming problems. What is the most challenging thing you had to overcome to get where you are today? The most challenging thing I would have to say is self love & self esteem. Mainly because I know I second guessed myself a lot. I did not believe in myself most of the time because of this I would get angry and lash out on the people that I love the most. But I now I’ve learned how to express myself instead of shutting people out and work through my problems ( I LEARNED THAT IN SCHOOL ).
What Do I Like To Do For Fun .? I love singing and dancing. I like to play and be funny. I also like doing stuff like wall climbing, hiking, running working out and just having fun with my family. Give us 3 tips of advice that you can pass onto the person , to help them achieve their goals. 1.Never give up on your dreams no matter who tells you, you can’not make it or your not good enough. You can make it and their right your not good enough your perfect. 2. Reach for the stars and when you reach them shoot for the galaxy. 3. Your body is not who you are. I don’t think women should label themselves based on the way they look. What about defining yourself by a different kind of measurement? What about your heart, your soul, your compassion, your generosity, your strength and your power? There are so many other things to focus on besides your waistline.” Natural Woman Magazine Back to School cover shoot was shot in Cincinnati, Ohio Model Cover Make Up by: Nikita Anderson, Glamorous Faces Photography bby: AZ 8 Media Wardrobe by: Devine Unquie Fashions
Wordz from the Editor Why do people fail? Why does it seem so hard for others to reach their goals, but for others it easy? Is it because of race, intelligence, social status, money, or sex? No it is something that separates the great from the weak and that is the power to think BIGGER the power to have complete freedom of your MIND. Thinking BIG is what separates the successful from the “ordinary”, I do not care how many degrees you have, or how many facts you know, if you cannot think big and positively you will never reach success. Now when I say success I am not speaking of just material means, I am talking about all kinds of success from relationships, health, self development, success can mean anything. Whatever goals you have placed before, you can reach them and more, if you truly understand how powerful your mind really is. “What’s felt on the inside, reflects what’s on the outside”, is my philosophy. If you want greatness you must feel it. We create every minute in our lives you have complete control of your thoughts, why not use them to create the life you want. Stop using them to create your struggles. Those who reach success are those who truly believe in their ability to reach their goals. If you see that you are unsuccessful in reaching your goals you have to start believing in yourself. Imagine all of the great things you want to accomplish see them with your inner eyes, feel them with your heart, then and only then you will be able to actually experience them. But remember you must have patience nothing will show up at your doorstep (not that it can’t), action is always involved. “Knowledge is power” is only a partial truth. True power comes to those who APPLY KNOWLEDGE.
Azizah Nubia
Photography by Vernell Dillingham
Follow me on social Media @AzizahNubia Twitter @AzizahNubia1
Natural Hair Zone
Send Natural Woman Magazine your unquie Natural Hair Style Photos. They maybe in our next issue Send pictures to asknaturalwoman@gmail.com
Creating a Business Boutique Carla Holden is a certified transformational coach and founder of Her Business Boutique, where she teaches women the mindset and marketing skills necessary to make money doing what they love. She’s the author of the upcoming book, “The 5 Day Flirt: Change Your Life In A Week Or Less!” (Pink Ink) and a regular contributor at The Huffington Post. She’s also been featured in YFS magazine, Your Bella Life and Cafe Truth. “I believe in living a life filled with absolute joy and adventure and that if you have a burning desire to live a life less ordinary and “outside the box” then you’re already closer than you think to manifesting your wish list. I’ve been a successful artist and entrepreneur for over 15 years and I know how terrifying it is to go against the grain and be an individu-
with Carla
Holden
al…aka, follow your heart. Building your own business takes a lot of guts and I love helping other women find their voice, stand out in their field, be daring, be seen and build a lifestyle and business that lights them up like the Times Square Christmas tree. I know what’s possible when we give up fear and indecision for courage and action and I’m here to help you align your energy with what you say you want while taking massive action step-by-step into the life you’re meant to live. Click the picture below to watch Azizah & Carla talk 1 on 1. To learn more about Carla plaese visit her at http://www.herbusinessboutique.com/
Girl Talk with
Nerissa Irving
Nerissa Irving is truly a Natural Woman. She constantly reinvents herself and her brand while single-handedly creating a lifestyle that is filled with empowerment, inspiration and spreading love, light and knowledge to the world. As a mother, author, model, sexologist and entrepreneur, she is surely a multifaceted woman. Nerissa is a Jamaican-born Renaissance woman with locs that kiss the ground. She graced the pages of Playboy Magazine as its first model with locs. She appeared in the 2008 Special Edition Playboy’s Natural Beauty issue, 2009 issue of Playboy’s Sexy 100 and 2009 Playboy Nudes edition. Nerissa continues to create her empire and expand her brand. Nerissa uses her platform to educate her community on ways to develop natural habits and routines that are conducive to producing and maintaining a healthy mind, body and soul. She uses
Interviewed By Azizah Nubia
her voice to speak on the things a lot of people may stray away from due to them being taboo within society. I had the pleasure to speak with Nerissa about a talk every woman needs to have and that is, What is good pussy? Now this conversation has very little to do with sex, although having good pussy leads to awesome sex. And, we all know when we have great amazing sex we can create and manifest amazing things. So what is good pussy? According to the Sensual Goddess Nerissa, good pussy is a mindset that every woman no matter her religion or spiritual beliefs should have. Having a good pussy means having a healthy pussy and it nothing to be ashamed of. The misunderstanding around sex and our sexual organs leave a lot of women to neglecting their sexual health. It is so import-
ant to remember that our sexual health is just as important as our overall health. Nerissa believes in the importance of taking care of your yoni (vagina) for good hygiene upkeep. “Good vaginal health can help a woman feel sexy and confident. I’m open with my sexuality because I’m comfortable with myself and I love teaching other ladies about the importance of knowing thyself. We don’t need a man to teach us about our bodies, we should be teaching them about our bodies. Have you ever noticed how a man makes sure he gets his? Why can’t women do the same? To experience great joy you have to be willing to be open to things that might make you uncomfortable. If you don’t explore new ventures you will never know if you like them or not. Free up yourselves, communicate more and stop being lazy with your own pleasures. I hate to see when women block their own happiness. I know you’re probably hearing sex only, but you should be hearing wisdom. Do you know how powerful you can be if you know how to control your thoughts, communicate to get what you need, listen
when wisdom is being given to you and of course having great pussy? You will be on the brink of knowing your purpose if you do. Women are the creatures of the earth. We create our men. We create our children. By taking the time to care for your vaginal health and cultivating good pussy you can even create a new refined world. Find your P power ladies.” Be sure to check out Azizah & Nerissa’s interview on “Good Pussy” just click the link below. Visit Nerissa Irving www.nerissairving.com
A Tribute to On August 9th Natural Woman Magazine had the honor to help organize a peaceful rose vigil for the family of the late Samuel Dubose at the University of Cincinnati Green Campus. Samuel Dubose was a Cincinnati, native who was shot to his death by a white UC Campus police officer, Dubose was unarmed. 6,000 Roses were donated from an anonyomous sponsor in addition to the roses, many community supporter including the Dubose family came together to create a 8ft Rose Vigil sketching out the words #BlackLivesMatter Samuel Dubose. “Red was Sam’s favorite color”, Sam’s fiances DaShonda Spears shared with the group. The presence of Sam’s loss was heavily felt from the ones he left behind. After spending time with Sam’s loved ones I was able to learn a lot about the man whose life was taken so
Samuel Dubose
By: Azizah Nubia
soon. Mainstream media has used the death of Dubose as more fuel to the current race war that has been cooking up since the death of Trayvon Martin in 2012. While race in America is the root to senseless crimes such as this. Sam Dubose was a loving man who had a family, friends, and a community that benefited from the source of knowledge Sam was so eager to spread. Friends of Sam Dubose shared with me that he had hopes of starting up a cultural resource center here in the city and was currently in the studio working on new music. Sam’s life was way more than just another statistic to the ever growing list of race crimes commited by police officers. Sam was a man who had a bright future for the world and his community. He was a man loved by many. He was a man whose life mattered.
On the Road with The K.A.S.S.I.E Project is breaking new ground in the city of Kansas City, MI. The K.A.S.S.I.E. team and the couch took over the Kansas City Natural Hair Expo August 1, 2015. The K.A.S.S.I.E. Project is dedicated to serving as a healing outlet for all survivors of sexual and domestic abuse/ violence who are striving towards and struggling with controlling how their past affects their journey into life after abuse. The vision of the project is to connect survivors with survivors who share the same desires and obstacles in their quest to have a successful ‘life after abuse’. A system designed to provide a non-clinical, non-traditional and non-intimidating support network which gives each individual an opportunity to openly express themselves without being subjected
to ridicule or judgment. The K.A.S.SI.E. Project initiates healing to assist individuals in moving from the ‘victim’ mentality onto the ‘survivor’ state of mind and into the life of a ‘victor’. During a K.A.S.S.I.E. healing-sessions, survivors are encouraged to express themselves without being subjected to judgment or ridicule. Unlike many other Domestic Violence events/sessions, survivors will be presented with an opportunity to hear and understand the re-formed ‘abusers’ standpoint which will also assist in the healing process (this is done through video-vignettes). Survivors are also invited to share through the arts (i.e. story telling, poetry, song or whatever creative outlet they use to heal) even if they just choose to simply share. The visionary of the K.A.S.S.I.E. is the fabulous Krhys Styles an accomplished radio, television personality and award winning
commercial and stage actress. A survivor herself Khrys decided there has to be a better route to ‘life after abuse’. Inspired by the mere idea that she was not able to help her friend out of her tragic situation, Khrys has become the face for survivors of sexual and domestic abuse. K.A.S.S.I.E. TIPS FOR ADVICE It’s my belief that on the road to recovery there are necessary things every survivor must strive for and achieve:
Khrys Styles (left) Dawndrenique Harris (middle) and Azizah Nubia(right) at the Kansas City Natural Hair Expo
Stop Blaming Self - Take responsibility for present and future choices. Stop Isolating — Connect with others and build a support network. Stop denying and minimizing feelings Learn to understand and express honestly in a healthy, supportive environment. TO LEARN MORE INFORMAITION ON THE K.A.S.S.I.E. project visit http://www. onthecouchwithkhrys.com/
Shelly Mathewis(middle) Marketing & Communications Director of K.A.S.S.I.E project.
Khrys Styles answering audience questions during her live K.A.S.S.I.E. session at the Kansas City Natural Hair Expo.
Culture Courses
Considering all of the never-ending controversy going on in the United States right now, you might want to take advantage of the cultural courses your university has to offer. Registering for classes can be scary, exciting, and stressful all at the same time, but the ultimate goal is to take classes that not only interest you, but challenge you as well. What better way to challenge yourself than to learn more about your own history, ancestors, background, and roots. In fact, it’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about your ethnic history, while you can. In the past couple of years, many states have either tried to ban certain studies for students, or simply try to cancel out specific courses altogether. Many people who support the discontinuance of cultural classes argue that the courses promote Anti-Americanism and raise hostility toward the U.S government. In contrast, those
by Ashely Wilson
opposed (mostly ethnic cultures), feel like their part of history is being under appreciated, unacknowledged, and treated as unimportant. College itself is a culture and can serve as a culture shock to many of its students. With people from all over the world attending your one university, it is important to know how to communicate with someone from a culture different from your own. Understanding simple things like cultural non-verbal gestures, can help a conversation be less awkward and more rewarding. Furthermore, learning more about your culture is a plus, but to broaden your horizons and learn about others is a phenomenal experience. Try registering for a culture and communication class or a cultural anthropology class to start you off!
How to Avoid the Mid-College Crisis By: Michaela Raffaele
When you graduate high school, you have this whole plan laid out for college: study an amazing major that you’re in love with, make awesome new friends, actually talk to that cute guy in chemistry, and hit up all of the coolest parties on (and off!) campus. Now that you’re in college, maybe things haven’t been going the way you’ve planned. Maybe you’ve changed your major--TWICE. Maybe your social life isn’t going where you want it because no one understands you like your friends from home. Maybe you can’t attend as many parties as you thought because you are too concerned about maintaining your GPA. All of these worries start to set in pretty early in the college years and by the time you hit the sophomore/junior years, the regret and doubt start to take over. As a college student myself, I hear whispers and see worried looks on my fellow classmate’s faces about these “side effects” that arise with the term, The Mid-College Crisis. College is supposed to be the best years of your life and you haven’t been getting the experience you wanted. Maybe you slacked off the first couple semesters because you’ve been a little too social (not to mention there are no parents to make sure you’re on top of things). Or maybe you weren’t social at all! The “what if’s” start to become a frequent phrase that you catch yourself saying more often when you talk about the future: “What if I don’t land that job/internship?” “What if I can’t pay back my debt?” “What if I just don’t make it?” While it’s easy to get stuck in the same bor-
ing, monotonous routine from being so focused on school, switch things up! You’d be surprised how a new lipstick or a new jacket can make you feel. A newfound confidence could give you that burst of energy you’ve been craving! Take a different route to class than you normally do and take a moment to connect with the earth and think about why you were put here (trust me, there’s a reason). Think your major is too competitive and doubting yourself? Browse, research, or go through anything that reminds you of why you fell in love with it to begin with. That kind of spark could just give you the inspiration you’ve been needing! Balancing work and play is key to maintaining your 1) sanity and 2) health. It’s okay to go out! Even the smallest bit of conversation can change your mood. Don’t worry about missing your friends from home, just make sure that while you are having fun with your new ones, you are still keeping in contact with the old ones. Don’t forget, those people have made an impression on you, otherwise you wouldn’t miss them so much. So don’t forget about them, they might need to hear from you too. So if Plan A didn’t work out, the alphabet has 25 more letters. Stay cool. Keep your head up and keep going! Finish strong and stay focused on your happiness. Now take a deep breath and go get ‘em because girl, YOU GOT THIS! ;)
Fat Girl
By: Fatima Gaskins
I’m fat. The type of fat that has rolls forming on my neck, under my arms, and like a pyramid on my stomach. I’m the unhealthy fat that doctors sit in their chairs behind their comfortable desks and give me the parent glare. They glare at me and try to come up with the words to convince me that I should stop eating greasy, fried, cheesy, processed food. That I should start reading the side with the ingredients and nutrition facts and pay heed to things high in fat, carbs, and sugar. Doctors have given me nutrition plans and shaken their head at the results at the follow up visits. I’m hard headed. I’m stubborn. Most of all, I like to eat what I want. I have tried to eat healthy. I was on the straight and narrow for about two weeks. But then I had a craving for McDonald fries. No one makes them like McDonalds. They are especially good when they are hot with a light dusting of salt and a side of a vanilla ice cream cone. Crisp and delicious. Somehow I was
able to ignore that craving, and tried to be good until I got a craving for pizza. Let me stop right here and say I can eat pizza for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack, brunch....pretty much at any time, anywhere. Now that we have established that you can understand why I bought a NY style pizza slice and loved it. And so began the downfall of my unhealthy eating stretch. One day I was driving along during my lunch about to stop at the bank when I got this sharp pain in my chest. It was so sharp I couldn’t breath all I could do was sit there and try not to wreck my car. Was I having a stroke?! A heart attack?! My adrenaline shot up and I could feel each of my heart beats. Each beat brought excruciating pain. And as abruptly as it started it stopped. I had managed to swerve into a Walgreens parking lot and my car was haphazardly sitting sideways crossing 2 parking spaces as I tried to catch my breath. I
was scared. Before I got to the bank I had the sharp pains two more times. In the days that followed I told myself maybe it was a muscle spasm. Maybe my heart was trying to clear a blockage and it worked. I didn’t know nor did I consult a doctor. About a month passed since the original incident and I was on a road trip to visit my sister when the pains started in my chest. I gripped the steering wheel and struggled to breathe through the pain. It took everything in me to control the car and stay in my lane. I made a vow then if I made it home I would go to the doctor. Thankfully I made it back home safely. I had scheduled an appointment that next day with the doctor. I had X-Rays taken, blood drawn, and a urine sample. I knew what the doctor would say I just didn’t want to hear it. Sure enough the doctor, a little Indian lady, who spoke softly but stern, sat down across from me in the examination room. She took her glasses off and said look you are killing yourself. You won’t make it to age 50 at this rate. You are fooling yourself if you think all you need to do is exercise. The proper eating diet is crucial. She gave
me the parent glare I was so familiar with and said I’m putting you on medication. “No!” I shouted. “I can do this.” She said, “you have been given several times to change your diet, this needs to be taken care of immediately before you fall over and die.” You see the truth of the matter is I’m actually not fat. I’m 5’10, 165lbs, I fit a size 8-9 pair of pants and dress depending on the day. I look healthy on the outside. I exercise at least 3 times a week and drink plenty of fluids. In the past I thought because I was physically fit I could eat what I want. Why should I have to be on a diet? That was my mentality throughout my 20’s. Now I’m in my 30’s and my eating habits are weighing more and more of a toll on my body internally. I could no longer ignore the fact that I could NOT just eat what I wanted when I wanted. It made me sad because I soooo enjoyed that unhealthy greasy makes you feel bloated after you eat it food. The doctor sure did prescribed me medicine and wrote out a diet that wasn’t as strict as I thought it would be. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. Maybe I will live to see 50.
The Natural Woman
Fashion Show
#IAMBEAUTY
Natural Woman Magazine and Inside Body Natural Health Therapies teamed up to create the Natural Woman Fashion Show summer tour took place at the Philadephia Natural Hair Care Expo Night of Naturals and Harrisburg’s Happy Nappy Day. This year’s theme was I Am Beauty recongizing the beauty in all of our women. The show highlighted designs from Atef Wear, Bornatty by Martone, Naked Rootz by Eunika Simmons.
Yvette
Featured Model Dorcas Meyer
Shari Aisha
Every Woman is the Standard of Beauty
The Philadelphia Natural Hair Care Expo Night of Naturals took place on July 19th, at the TLO Event Complex. This show featured 12 Natural Woman Models and 3 Featured models. Feature models included Roc- A - Natural founder Dorcas Meyer, Gemineye Creatation creator Tae Queen, and Essence Magazine best selling book author Kenda Bell. The Natural Woman Fashion Show serves as a platform to showcase and celebrate the beautiful qualities and skills in all faucets of the Black Beauty Industry from Hair designing, Make Up Artistry, Fashion Designing, and of course beautiful women of all ages and sizes who walk the runway. Zee Bee Markiesha Feature Model Book Author Kenda Bell
Several business sponsors helped to make the Natural Woman Fashion Show a success. Those businesses included Honey Bee, A’shea Natural Hair Products, Island Design Natural Hair Salon, Mette’ Make up Artistry. The Natural Woman Fashion Show was sponsored by Natural Woman Magazine, Inside Body Natural Health Therapies, and Dredz N Headz Natural Hair Center.
Amaadi Anna
Atef Wear Designers Tariq & Ms. Jackie
Ashely
Watch the Natural Woman Fashion Show at the Philadelphia Natural Hair Care Expo Here
Happy Nappy Day #IAMBEAUTY Stop two on the Natural Woman I Am Beauty tour took place in Harrisburg, Pa for the 3rd Annual Happy Nappy Day Poets in the park. Happy Nappy Day is another Natural Hair Care Expo event with a purpose sponsored by Inside Body Holistic Health Therapies, led by Dr. Consir Thot this event was created to give back to the community and to raise funds for the Inside Body End Childhood Obesity Tour. Happy Nappy Day’s Natural Woman Fashion Show was all about raising the self-esteem of young African-American girls. To help with this Natural Woman teamed up with the Melange Model Company who supplied our show with several young and beautiful models who not only demonstrated beauty, class and poise they knew how to rip the runway.
Happy Nappy Day Poets in the Park was hosted by Jubair Yother, owner of Culture City. Several local poets and community supporters came out to check out a wonderful line up of poets and artist from the entire Harrisburg area. Happy Nappy Day also featured a live performance from the new and upcoming recording artist Nawwal she graced the audience with her hit Uptown Cutie and I have a Vision.
Listen to Nawwal Music by visiting www.nawwalmusic.com
GMO Awareness
Monsanto Dirty Secrets
By: Trazana Staples, MLEP When you take a moment to reflect on the history of product development at Monsanto, what do you find? Here are twelve products that Monsanto has brought to market. See if you can spot the pattern… #1 – Saccharin Did you know Monsanto got started because of an artificial sweetener? John Francisco Queeny founded Monsanto Chemical Works in St. Louis, Missouri with the goal of producing saccharin for Coca-Cola. In stark contrast to its sweet beginnings, studies performed during the early 1970s,* including a study by the National Cancer Institute in 1980, showed that saccharin caused cancer in test rats and mice. After mounting pressure from consumers, the Calorie Control Council, and manufacturers of artificial sweeteners and diet sodas, along with
additional studies (several conducted by the sugar and sweetener industry) that reported flaws in the 1970s studies, saccharin was delisted from the NIH’s Carcinogen List. A variety of letters from scientists advised against delisting; the official document includes the following wording to this day: “although it is impossible to absolutely conclude that it poses no threat to human health, sodium saccharin is not reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen under conditions of general usage as an artificial sweetener.” (*Read the Chemical Heritage Foundation’s History of Saccharin here.) #2 – PCBs During the early 1920s, Monsanto began expanding their chemical production into polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to produce
coolant fluids for electrical transformers, capacitors, and electric motors. Fifty years later, toxicity tests began reporting serious health effects from PCBs in laboratory rats exposed to the chemical. After another decade of studies, the truth could no longer be contained: the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a report citing PCBs as the cause of cancer in animals, with additional evidence that they can cause cancer in humans. Additional peer-reviewed health studies showed a causal link between exposure to PCBs and non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, a frequently fatal form of cancer. In 1979, the United States Congress recognized PCBs as a significant environmental toxin and persistent organic pollutant, and banned its production in the U.S. By then Monsanto already had manufacturing plants abroad, so they weren’t entirely stopped until the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants banned PCBs globally in 2001. And that’s when Monsanto’s duplicity was uncovered: internal company memos from 1956 surfaced, proving that Monsanto had known about dangers of PCBs from early on. In 2003, Monsanto paid out over $600 million to residents of Anniston, Alabama, who experienced severe health problems including liver disease, neurological disorders and cancer after being exposed to PCBs — more than double the payoff that was awarded in the case against Pacific Gas & Electric made famous by the movie “Erin Brockovich.” And yet the damage persists: nearly 30 years after PCBs have been banned from the U.S., they are still showing up in the blood of pregnant women, as reported in a 2011 study by the University of California San Francisco. #3 – Polystyrene In 1941, Monsanto began focusing on plastics and synthetic polystyrene, which is still widely used in food packaging and ranked 5th in the EPA’s 1980s listing of chemicals whose production generates the most total hazardous waste.
#4 – Atom bomb and nuclear weapons Shortly after acquiring Thomas and Hochwalt Laboratories, Monsanto turned this division into their Central Research Department. Between 1943 to 1945, this department coordinated key production efforts of the Manhattan Project—including plutonium purification and production and, as part of the Manhattan Project’s Dayton Project, techniques to refine chemicals used as triggers for atomic weapons (an era of U.S. history that sadly included the deadliest industrial accident). #5 – DDT In 1944, Monsanto became one of the first manufacturers of the insecticide DDT to combat malaria-transmitting mosquitoes. Despite decades of Monsanto propaganda insisting that DDT was safe, the true effects of DDT’s toxicity were at last confirmed through outside research and in 1972, DDT was banned throughout the U.S. #6 – Dioxin In 1945, Monsanto began promoting the use of chemical pesticides in agriculture with the manufacture of the herbicide 2,4,5-T (one of the precursors to Agent Orange), containing dioxin. Dioxins are a group of chemically-related compounds that since become known as one of the “Dirty Dozen” — persistent environmental pollutants that accumulate in the food chain, mainly in the fatty tissue of animals. In the decades since it was first developed, Monsanto has been accused of covering up or failing to report dioxin contamination in a wide range of its products. #7 – Agent Orange During the early 1960s, Monsanto was one of the two primary manufacturers of Agent Orange, an herbicide / defoliant used for chemical warfare during the Vietnam War. Except Monsanto’s formula had dioxin levels many times
higher than the Agent Orange produced by Dow Chemicals, the other manufacturer (which is why Monsanto was the key defendant in the lawsuit brought by Vietnam War veterans in the United States). (Pictured at left, Anh and Trang Nhan, with their father, when they first arrived at the Hoi An Orphanage; below are the same brothers shortly before Trang’s death. Source: Kianh Foundation Newsletter, Dec. 2011). As a result of the use of Agent Orange, Vietnam estimates that over 400,000 people were killed or maimed, 500,000 children were born with birth defects, and up to 1 million people were disabled or suffered from health problems—not to mention the far-reaching impact it had on the health of over 3 million American troops and their offspring. Internal Monsanto memos show that Monsanto knew of the problems of dioxin contamination of Agent Orange when it sold it to the U.S. government for use in Vietnam. Despite the widespread health impact, Monsanto and Dow were allowed to appeal for and receive financial protection from the U.S. government against veterans seeking compensation for their exposure to Agent Orange. In 2012, a long 50 years after Agent Orange was deployed, the clean-up effort has finally begun. Yet the legacy of Agent Orange, and successive generations of body deformities, will remain in orphanages throughout VietNam for decades to come. (Think that can’t happen here? Two crops were recently genetically engineered to withstand a weedkiller made with one of the major components of Agent Orange, 2,4-D, in order to combat “super weeds” that evolved due to the excessive use of RoundUp.) 8 – Petroleum-Based Fertilizer In 1955, Monsanto began manufacturing petroleum-based fertilizer after purchasing a major oil refinery. Petroleum-based fertilizers can kill beneficial soil micro-organisms, sterilizing the soil and creating a dependence, like an addiction, to the synthetic replacements. Not the best addiction to have, considering the rising cost and dwindling supply of oil
Natural Woman Sports By: Aaron T. Russell
What the hell has happened to Eldrick Tont Woods or Tiger Woods as we all know him!? Has he been golfing terribly bad because of his cheating scandal or because he fired his original coach Butch Harmon? Who really knows because golf is a mental game more so than physical. It is just that one person. No team no two people. Just that person. Who knows though because in golf, one can play for decades. So there might be a possibility Tiger gains some of his winning ways back. Only time will tell.
For those who are old enough to remember when the Williams sister hit the scene, we were watching history being created. However now, we are watching one of the best individual players ever in that of Serena Williams! When the Williams sisters began their careers, one could clearly see that the younger sister (Serena) would soon surpass her older sister Venus. Venus was beating Serena simply because Venus was the elder. It took a while but once Serena beat Venus, there was no looking back. Today, not only is Serena a stunningly attractive black woman, but she is about to embark on a few feits. For one if she wins The Woman’s U.S. Open this year, she would have completed a calendar grand slam! Meaning she’d have won All majors this year! Awesome! Keep it up Serena!
The Vegan College Life:
Tips for College Vegan Students Article by: http://www.veganbreak.com/
Always carry granola bars or energy bars with you.
Everywhere. Keep some form of energy bar that you don’t plan on eating in your backpack at all times. Because eventually you will be stuck on campus for longer than expected, and you will start feeling your stomach growl, and you will be tempted by those grimy vending machines conveniently located in every building. But not to worry, you know that if you dig deep enough in your bag you will find an energy bar waiting for you. Not only will this keep you safely on the vegan track, but it will also save you from eating fatty chips and candy bars. Some good options are Clif Bars, Raw Revolution Bars, Larabars, and Luna Bars.
Be crafty and thrifty.
I’m all too familiar with the tight college budget. For the first time you’re paying for your own food and realizing that sustaining yourself isn’t cheap. I’ll be sharing plenty of quick, easy and dirt-cheap meal ideas on future Vegan Break videos, don’t you worry. Be sure to subscribe to stay updated! P.S. if you’re looking for a vegan alternative to ramen noodles, try these Noodle Bowls which are slightly more expensive but more filling and even easier to prepare!
Connect with other vegans.
Seek out your college’s animal rights or vegetarian club. Don’t have one? Well, now you have an opportunity to make a huge impact on your college campus. Yup, you know what you need to do—what the animals need you to do: start a club! Also look for grassroots organizations that are active in your community.
Veganize your cafeteria.
Here’s how. Get chummy with the dining hall director. It is the dining director’s job to make sure the dining options are suitable to all students, so let him know it’s important to students that school cafeterias offer kick ass vegan options! Vegans should have the opportunity to gain the Freshman 15 too, dude.
Fall in love with the best study snack of all time— Tings! Yes, they deserve their own spot on this list. But if
you aren’t into Tings, there are zillions of other delicious snacks that will make you love being vegan and turn you off from vending machines for life. Stock up on delicious vegan snacks and treats so anytime you’re tempted by ice cream or cookies you’ve got your own vegan versions on hand to turn to. You must try Tofutti Cuties (vegan ice cream sandwiches). And Annie’s Organic Fruit Snacks. And Nana’s Cookies. And Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers. And Vegan Rice Krispy Treats. And Primal Strips Vegan Jerky.
Get witty.
There’s one thing you can be sure about when you go veg. You will get nagged and pestered by friends about being vegan. Whether it’s the relentless “are you sure you’re getting enough protein?” question or people dangling dead flesh in your face as if it would make you want to eat it, be ready with a witty or intelligent comeback. You’re not only standing up for yourself, but you’re speaking out for the animals as well. Find a friend. Going vegan is so much easier and more fun if you have the support of a friend making the same change. Don’t worry if you can’t find anyone at your college.
Get involved in Vegan Outreach.
You can order free literature from Vegan Outreach to hand out at your college. I wholeheartedly believe that this is the most important and effective thing you can do to help animals. After all, inspiring just one person to go vegan can save as many animals as being vegan yourself for your entire life! So grab some leaflets, head to the busiest area of campus, and be the influential person the animals are counting on you to be!
The Kemetic Roots of Yoga with Yiser Ra Hotep By: Azizah Nubia
Carved on the back of a wooden chair found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamen is the image of a man called Shu. Shu represents the concept of breath. His long curved beard indicates that the ancient Egyptians or Kemetic people viewed him as a Netcher or force of nature. In the ancient Kemetic Scientific System of Cosmology, Shu represents the concept of the breath we breath, which gives life to our physical bodies. It’s also the atmosphere that surrounds the Earth and one of the four elements of creation, i.e., earth, air, fire and water. History tell us that our Kemetic ancestors built the pyramids and gave the world mathematics, architecture, astronomy, agriculture, chemistry, engineering, medicine and religion used symbols to express their scientific and philosophical ideas, and Yoga is no exception. India has always been given credit to the art of Yoga today, but the truth is the roots of Yoga are deeply entrenched in the Kemetic Culture. The people of ancient Kemet practiced a unique style of Yoga that predates the Yoga of India, and the
practice and philosophy of Yoga in India was informed by knowledge that came out of Africa. Fact is examples of Indian Yoga can be found in ancient Egypt, but examples of ancient Kemetic Yoga cannot be found in India. The conclusion one can draw from this is: the Yoga of Egypt is much older than that found in India. Yirser Ra Hotep (Elvrid Lawrence) is a master instructor of Yoga and the creator of the YogaSkills Method. He is the most senior instructor of Kemetic Yoga in the United States with over 30 years of experience practicing and teaching. Yirser was involved with the original research and documentation of Kemetic Yoga along with master Instructor Dr. Asar Ha-pi in the 1970s. Yirser has continued to research, document and expand on the foundations of Kemetic Yoga. He has written extensively, lectured and led workshops throughout the United States, Africa and the Caribbean, including Cuba. Yirser has been featured in publications such as Yoga Journal,
Yoga Chicago, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Parent, African Business and Culture to name a few. He has also been interviewed and featured on WGN TV, ABC TV, NBC TV, CBS TV and has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show. The Kemetic Philosphy according Yiser Ra Hotep The philosophic principals of Kemetic Yoga places emphasis the rejuvenation of the entire body and mind, and not just physical development of outer muscles and flexibility. Kemetic Yoga teaches you the skill to ease yourself into a posture as opposed to forcing yourself into it. Most importantly, Kemetic Yoga emphasizes control of the breath. The breath is the life force, and we use the breath to “flow” through the movements from one posture to the next. Yoga works as therapy on various levels of human development. On one level it provides a total sense of well-being and personal empowerment that allows any individual the ability to become self-actualized. This means that one has the energy, mental clarity and discipline needed to direct their actions towards the goals they set for themselves. The word Yoga literally means control. When we do not have control over our thoughts and behaviors we become unhappy and out of balance. Lack of control over one’s thoughts is related to the definition of insanity. Once we incorporate the philosophic principals of Kemetic Yoga into our daily lives not, only do we learn how to control our thoughts and relaxation techniques, but we train our bodies not to respond to stress or stressful situations. To learn more information on Yiser Ra Hotep or to join one of his Kemetic Yoga Retreats please visit http://kemeticyoga.com/
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Coming November 2015
Coming November 2015