A NEW FLAVOR FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
Vol. 1
I ssue 4
November 2004
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RED INK MAGAZINE
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RED INK MAGAZINE
* R E D I N K S TA F F *
CAPTIONS
A Short Reflection: * About Us:
Founder / Publisher:
MISSION STATEMENT
..........................................................Bibi S. Khan Chief Editor
Editor-in-Chief : ......................................................................S. Ali Contributing Editors: ............................................................Fazia Khan ......................................Kenneth Randall (Hakim)
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........................................Sheldon Riley aka 2wist
With the growing popularity of "instant news" on 24-hour TV news channels and the Internet, each year, fewer people take the time to read any publication. In New York City, more and
...........................................................Stacy Smith
more people catch up on the events of the day
........................................................Althea Wilson from new sources like the various news zippers Graphic Designer: ................................................Bibi S. Khan (Naz) Art Director: ....................................................Chantal Flaquer
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in Times Square, TV screens that flash news clips in elevators, lottery kiosks and all-news radio programs.
Photographers:
Now, RED INK Magazine has taken the notion
.....Bandy Photography- bandy647@hotmail.com
of "entertainment news" one step further.
...............Talor Made Photography- 516.375.3987
Subways cars and buses don't get radio or TV
....................Marlon Ajamu-www.ajamuphoto.com ........................................Salim Khan (Freelance) Marketing Team:
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reception, so thousands of on-the-run commuters are snapping up free magazines from various locations around this city. Our maga-
...........................................................Alex Mangal zine also can be found in different states, coun-
........................................................Erick Persaud
tries and islands in the Caribbean. We are look-
........................................................Sarah Aaliyah
ing into expanding even further.
Comments or Questions: EMAIL: REDINK@ REDGRAFIX.COM We invite your comments regarding our issues and reserve the right to edit your response for content and space. All responses must be sent with the writers full name, address and contact number. All advertisers assume responsibility for the content of their advertisements. RED INK Magazine assume no responsibilities for any misprint images.
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R 2004. All rights reserved. O
that you don't have to pay for. They want their entertainment news quick and simple. And RED INK Magazine fills that niche. RED INK's aggressive team of reporters and editors brings you all the articles that you need for your entertainment.
- RED INK Magazine C RED INK O
New York's youth see news as a commodity
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Hey, who says a good magazine can't be free? S. Ali
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PROBLEM CHILD 14 YEAR OLD RAPPER HEADING MAIN STREAM by Sheldon Riley aka 2wist
H
ey people 2wist here‌.It has been my experience, that in the rap game, those artists that are allowed to talk about where they came from, you connect with them almost immediately. Just recently, I met a young man while I was hanging out at In Da Streets Studio Big shout out to my man Blackchild, Snails and my man Reg. We were hanging out upstairs, reminiscing on old high school hijinks, when a rumble accompanied by a smooth but rugged flow riding an ill beat with someone who's voice sounded like the birds in the morning came through the floor. I said, "what was dat!?" Black looked at me and simply said, "oh yeah that's my artist. Tight right? I immediately got up and ran downstairs to the control room and proceeded to sneak a peek because I wanted to know where this deepness was coming from. I get downstairs safely, but when I got to the control room, I nearly had a stroke. This dude was about 5'2, and about100 nothing lbs, and white! Mind you at this time my head is still boppin because the flow is even more sick in person. The only thing that I said to myself at this time was that "this young man has to be spoken to" he needs to be heard. Snails looked at me and smiled when he said, "That's Problem Child." I really wanted to speak to this kid, so I waited until he was done. When he stepped out of the booth, I said ayo come here man. He was like what up though? I knew it was time to find out about this problem that was born into and raised in the hood that we know as Queens Village. We spoke foe a few minutes, and in that few minutes I had to ask him if he was sure he was only fourteen. He said, "I get that a lot." But for the record my name is Harrison Schneider aka Problem Child the voice of the inner city youth. Now at this point, I was intrigued by this young cat. He went on to tell me about his upbringing in Queens Village. He had attended P.S 115 where he learned to express his thoughts and feelings through poetry, but that wasn't enough. In the third grade, he gave his teacher two of his poems and both of them not only was submitted to, but were published in the districts anthology of poetry. He then went on to tell me that after P.S 115, he went to M.S 172 which he didn't like very much. I mean how easy it to learn in a class of 40 children with no text books? NOT VERY! Luckily his parents had taken notice to these conditions, and wanted to do something about it. So the family packed up and moved to Long Island. Summer flew by and it was time to start school in a town that he was not familiar with. But it was okay because the nice house he 5
now lives in was a lot better than what he had back in Queens. 8th grade started, and almost immediately he realized that he didn't like it in this strange town. Now by this time he is being prejudged because of his speech and style of clothing. He tried to let it not get to him but something was missing - and that something was Queens. So it was time to hit the paper again to express some how what he was feeling. "At that point you could look at me in the face and see that behind my big brown eyes lie so many tears. Tears of anger, tears of love, tears of hate and tears of emptiness simply because I could not be heard." I was lost. The only thing I learned from out there is that rich people judge if you're different. What's sadder than that? These people are the leaders of tomorrow. "He thought of his old hood and how much success could come out of it if only given a chance." It's not about growing up with a silver spoon; it's about turning that rusty fork into one. This young brother is not only passionate about the game, he's aware of the pitfalls and stumbling blocks that the young people of today faces daily. By October of 2003 with some 50 plus songs written, he and his father went to a studio back in the hood called In Da Streets. The first time he layed down some lyrics they were about unfair circumstances to which inner city youths faces. But that day, whether he had known or not his voice was heard. Blackchild was in the building on the low, and was listening to this uncommonly good little white rapper. "before you leave I want you to spit something for me" Blackchild says. Flow was tight, Black was impressed with his tight flow, strong voice and controversial lyrics. Everything is now starting to come into focus. It seems like things are looking a little bit better, why? Simply because you have a great deal of talent and you have people like Black willing to work with you. Young man you have a come a long way, but remember the trip never ends. Problem Child is hungry and very driven, and his motivation is simply wanting to be heard and understood. "The only limits to my success is my imagination. I have something to say and when you say something that you mean it is heart felt. The second I have nothing left to say, I will no longer be a rapper." Problem Child is slated to drop something in the middle of 2005, but don't be surprised if you hear from him before that. Good luck little brother, you're about to change the game, take the focus off of the cars, hoes and clothes - and get back to the reasons artists started rhyming in the first place. The need for change‌..the need to be heard! u
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ALBUMS this month 1- Jah Mason My Princess Gone
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iami, Florida , Oct. 1 1 : VP/Atl antic Recording artist Elephant Man is the winner of the first ever Source award for DancehallReggae Artist of the Year. The award was announced in Miami. VP artist's T.O.K were on hand and so was former VP artist Beenie Man. Sizzla, Vybz Kartel, T.O.K. and Beenie Man were other artists nominated in this category.
DJ Kool Herc, hip-hop pioneer Kingston, October 8: It has been 30 years since hip-hop hit the music scene in the United States. DJ Kool Herc, a Jamaican who migrated to the US in the late 1960s, is credited with founding the genre which later evolved into rap music. Tribute will be paid to DJ Kool Herc and other figures in hip-hop and rap music beginning Tuesday, October 12 when popular US music channel VH1 premieres And You Don't Stop: 30 Years of Hip-Hop, a five-part documentary series. DJ Kool Herc is credited 6
1 0 MOVIES Top
this month 1- Shark Tale 2- Friday Night
2- Chezidek as the originator of breakbeat deejaying, which is basically the essence of hip-hop. By isolating and repeating the "breaks", or most danceable parts, of funk records by Mandrill, James Brown, and the Jimmy Castor Bunch, Herc created the prototype for modern-day hip-hop. Although he started his deejaying career in the early 1970s at a time when disco was king, Herc immediately distinguished himself. He was notorious for throwing all-night parties, and invariably present at these parties were young dancers who were early precursors of the breakdancers of the 1980s. Another Kool Herc attraction was his mammoth sound system. Ferc's career was sidelined, however, when he was stabbed at one of his parties, causing the DJ to curb his activities for several years. Though he was occasionally acknowledged during the 1990s, appearing at the Source Awards to talk about hip-hop's early days as well as on the 1994 release Super Bad by Public Enemy DJ Terminator, X. ua
Leave The Trees 3- I-Wayne Can’t Satisfy Her 4- Jah Cure
Lights 3- Team America: World Police 4- Shall We dance?
Longing For 5- Bush Man
5- Ladder 49
Downtown
6- Taxi
6- Sugar Roy/Conrad
7- The Forgotten
Love Overdue
8- Raise Your Voice
7- Bascom X Lonely Heart 8- Morgan Heritage Your Best Friend 9- Fantan Mojah
9- The Motorcycle Diaries 10- Sky Captain And The
Hungry 10- Wayne Wonder Hold Me Now
World Of Tomorrow
EVENT toVISIT 1- REGGAE MUSIC FESTIVAL Nassau Veteran Memorial Coliseum SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2004 Check out some of your favorite artists - Maxi Priest, Bunny Wailer, Jimmy Cliff, luciano, Tony Rebel, Half Pint just to name a few. FOR INFO: 718.856.5946
RED INK MAGAZINE
NEW YORK’S
HOTSPOTS
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HOTSPOTS this month Check
OUT 1.
Club B'Lo - NYC
2.
Club BLVD - NYC
3.
Coda - NYC
4.
Downtime - NYC
5.
13 Bar/Lounge - NYC
6.
Landmark Tavern Restaurant - NYC
7.
La Metairie Restaurant - NYC
8.
Club A - Queens - Queens
9.
Secrets Bar/Lounge- Queens
230 West 19th Street , (212.) 199 Bowery@Spring Street ( 212.785.3745) 34 East 34th Street ( 212.330.8975) 251 W 30th Street bet 7 & 8 (212.695.2747) 35 E. 13th Street. (212.979.6677 ) 626 11th Ave. at 46th Street (212.757.8595) 189 West 10th Street (212.989.0343)
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147.98 farmers Blvd., (718.995.0500) 147.98 Francis Lewis Blvd., (718.995.0500)
Baluchi’s Restaurant - Queens 113-30 Queens blvd.. (718.520.8600)
Check OUT New York City A- Uptown on 8th Ave through Hell's Kitchen passed the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld fame up to Columbus Circle and Central Park B- Get off the coach at Strawberry Fields, the John Lennon memorial at 72nd and Central Park West, for a short walk through Central Park. C- Head up to see the new cool Planetarium (where at night they have a show in the Sphere with psychedelic animation and music by Moby). D- Back down town on Broadway to see a residential area accessible by subways where there are many bars, restaurants and some hip jazz clubs. E- Left at Columbus Circle to 5th Ave shopping district starting at the Plaza Hotel (a great place to spot celebrities). Drive downtown to Rockefeller Center where NBC studios (skating rink, Christmas tree during winter) are located. Photos here if you wish. F- Right onto 49th Street over to Times Square passed the TKTS booth for cheap Broadway tickets, and the Visitors Center for maps, stamps, discount coupons and bathrooms. See MTV studios, Planet Hollywood, Virgin Megastore, "Naked Cowboy," ESPN, and 42nd Street attractions, including Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, Mega internet cafe, BB King's etc. G- Continue down thru the garment center passed the amazing shopping opportunities in and around Macy's and 34th Street to the Empire State Building.. H- Head downtown to Greenwich Village and get off the bus for Italian pastries and espresso on Bleecker Street -- and if there's time, check out the Bohemian scene in Washington Square Park by New York University and see the guerilla chess players. I- Head down on West Broadway through SoHo's trendy shopping and art gallery district on the way to see Little Italy and Chinatown. J- Continue through Chinatown on Bowery to Worth Street heading toward Ground Zero and Wall Street Area. The bus will stop at Battery Park for views of the 911 memorial and the Statue of Liberty before heading back uptown to get off the bus at Ground Zero. u
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Photos Provided by TaylorMade Photography
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E. CHRIS R&B
Sensation
by Kenneth Randall
T
here is a saying 'you never get a second chance to make a first impression'. So how did this talented R&B artist do with his chance to shine? Check out his Q & A session with me? For E. Chris the inspiration to give the world a chance to hear his melodic voice not only came from up above but also from a woman who he reached out to in church- his mother. He routinely attended church where he filled the halls with the sounds of Gospel. It was there that E. Chris fully realized the power and beauty of his gift. With many accolades under his belt such as, being recruited for The boys Choir Of Harlem, lead dancer for The Repetoiry Dance Company Of East Harlem while still in high school. The formal training he received from t h e s e renowned organizat i o n s instilled a discipline that supported him in school and now. His mother a former singer and dancer recognized Coming Soon !!! and encouraged the development of his talent at a young age. He credits her with keeping him focus and on track in becoming a suc-
Look out for E.CHRIS New
album
cessful R&B Artist. As we start the Q & A, I found E.Chris to be a very humble man. Also a man with a great deal of confidence in his abilities as an artist. Q. Chris, how are you able to keep your life so down to earth while pursuing your careers and I do say careers because you also have done some noticeable acting too? A. I think about God first then I think about the brain tumor surgery I had 4 years ago. Since then it has had an effect on me that you never know what God has in store for you. That's why you must put him first. Q. What was it like to work with one of the music industries great gospel singer Hezzekia Walker? A. I was so blessed to have worked with Hezzekia Walker and the experience was very uplifting to me spiritually, mentally and emotionally. Q. What current works are you engaged in? A. I have two singles out as of now "Do you like I Can" & "Let Me Show You" both is having major air play on WBLS and KISS radio station. Q. What can we expect next from you? A. My new song is titled "Me And You" this has already caught production industry executives attention, it will be out for 2005. Q. You have been a very busy artist and performer, can you tell us about
some of your performances? A. I have performed on Broadway at the Richard Roger Theater, Carnegie Hall, and the Lincoln Center, just to name a few venues. I'm proud to say that I've worked with artists such as Boys II Men, Brandy, Immature and Will Downing, just to name a few. I've also body doubled for Wesley Snipes. Q. Tell us about the P.I.M.P. Entertainment? A. Earlier this year I formed P.I.M.P. Entertainment, which stands for "Positive, Intelligent, Male, Power" and it is my goal to assist and support youths through successes of his organization. Q If you could give some encouragement to a young striving artist, what would you say? A. You have to go after what you believe in, and make sure to stay in prayer because with God, all things are possible. u 9
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RED INK MAGAZINE
Talia
PROFESSIONAL WRESTLER
S
ince a little child, Talia always had a passion for wrestling thanks to her dad. He would always try to get her to watch it with him, and when she did, she was completely hooked!! She used to love Macho Man Randy Savage. He was her favorite. She would sit there and watch his every move. Talia used to try and practice the wrestling moves that she saw on TV on her little brother. Talia was finally old enough to join a wrestling school. The problem was, finding a good one. She was introduced to someone who was willing to take the time out and train her for wrestling. She drove up to Chicopee, Massachusetts 3-4 times a week to Kevin Landry's ring and train with someone and a few of Landry's students. Talia learned how to bump and she learned a few other things. Talia remember being at this party one night in Waterbury and saw a guy walking around with an indy wrestling shirt on. She had no idea who the guy was, but went up to him anyways and asked him if he was a wrestler and where he trained because she was interested in joining a school. That's when Talia found out about Jason Knight's "House of Pain Pro Wrestling Dojo" in Waterbury. He told her all about Jason, the school, his students, and
the shows that were put on. The guy who gave her all this info at the party that night turned out to be none of than "BULL DREDD!!!!" After about a week or so, Talia went to the dojo with a few friends to check it out. She met Jason and Sheri and some of the students, and everyone one seemed really nice. They made her feel comfortable. talia sat down with Jason and told him who she was and why she was there and he invited her to join the school and so she did. Ever since then, Jason has been a tremendous help to her. Talia remember her first day going to the dojo to train. It was a lot more than she expected. Jason made her work so hard that she ended up throwing up. Talia says "It's so worth it though." Jason has taught her so much and she would recommend him to anyone who wants to learn this business the right way. Talia have had a lot of help from a lot of different people that were trying to assist her. Chris Hamrick is one of those people. He offered to drive down to the dojo one night and train with her. Then she remembers having Balls Mahoney at the dojo one night to do a training seminar. Talia is very appreciative of all the people who helped in making her career a reality. RED INK Magazine wishes her well with her career, keep doing what you do best, Talia. u By Naz
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RED INK MAGAZINE
Macka D
FIRST JAMAICAN BORN FEMALE
TO BE SIGNED TO
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GREENSLEEVES
M
a c k a Diamond is easily t h e busiest female DJ on the entertainment scene right now. The lady DJ is so hot she has a heavy calendar of performances for the rest of the year. Ever since her dynamic performance at Reggae Sumfest 2K4, Macka has been on almost every stage show held locally and is in high demand on the overseas circuit also. Her most recent being the New Jersey Reggae Fest which was held on September 19th, where she totally 'done the place'. Her awesome performance won the hearts of many new fans and with it comes a heavy roster of dates in the States. She has created history by being the first Jamaican born female DJ to sign a 3 threealbum deal with Greensleeves Records in the UK and a 5year publishing deal. Presently Macka is keeping a vibrant presence on the entertainment scene with singles such as'Try Wid Him' on the Mad Guitar Riddim, this song is sitting pretty in the #4 position on the local charts. Another popular single is 'Done Already' on the Thriller riddim that went No. 1 earlier this year on all local charts. Macka Diamond's first album for Greensleeves will be released in the spring of 2005. The 17-track effort will see Macka working with
top class producers such as Don Corleon, Christopher Birch, Richard Browne, Clive Hunt, Patrick Roberts, Robert Livingston, Dave Kelly among others. Born in Kingston, Charmaine Munroe a.k.a Macka Diamond grew up in Portmore. She attended Holy Childhood High School where she lived for the day when she could live her dreams of becoming a DJ. According to her sometimes she used to skull art class and go around the back of the school to entertain with her deejaying and singing skills. With a father Phillip Munroe who is a producer working with artistes such as Gregory Isaacs and being good friends with King Jammys and Sly & Robbie it was easy to understand how Macka could develop a passion for dejaying. One could definitely say that Macka Diamond had an intention which path she wanted to take. Every evening while coming home from school Macka would look across at Skateland where artistes such as Sista Nancy and others would hang out and she would say in her mind, 'soon join unno'. After graduating Holy Childhood Macka forego the opportunity to go to sixth form much to her teachers disappointment. She got the perfect opportunity to pursue her dream of dejaying when her mom migrated
RED INK MAGAZINE
Diamond
(as her mom didn't share the dejaying dream). She heard about Lady Junie and asked somebody to show her where she lived. With the hook up made she told Lady Junie that she wanted to break into the business. Lady Junie took Macka Diamond under her wings taking her on her studio rounds at King Tubbys. Macka started out as Lady Charm recorded her first song 'Don Girl' a counteraction to Major Mackerel's 'Don Ban'. But before she did the producer insisted he couldn't recorded it under Lady Charm, she had to use Lady
Mackerel. She cried the whole time but she submitted to the name change. Macka always knew she would change that name. Following that she went on to record other singles such as 'Oh What A Pity' on the Kingston 11 label, 'Sugar Plum' on Stone Love label and lots of other songs some of which weren't released. Among some of Macka's earlier releases are 'Know Yuh Friend' on the Dancehall Rock riddim for Kings of
Kings/VP Records; 'Boopsie' on the Spanish Fly riddim for Dem Youth Deh/Greensleeves Records; 'Woman We Name' on the Flava riddim; and 'Teck Con' on the After Effect riddim for GString label, Make Dat Money for 3,5,7 Records/Greensleeves on the Scoobay. Other impressive performances by Macka Diamond were on Sting, Teen Fest and Jamaica Spring Fest. Make sure you catch this sensational performer in concert, she’s HOT HOT HOT!!! u 13
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DAMESHE
PROFESSIONAL BELLY DANCER Dameshe did not let anything, be
an obstacle in her way with what she wanted to achieve with her career. Get to know Dameshe from our Q & A Session with her. She’s a very humble and delightful person with a very special talent. Q. Where are you from? (Nationality) A. I'm American, my family is originally from the south (Georgia). I have always been fascinated with India and the Middle East-for as long as I can remember, so dancing was a natural progression. Q. At what age did you start dancing and when did you decided to become a professional dancer? A. I have always been a dancer I guess. I was one of those kids that was always the first up dancing at family parties-I am still like that actually! It's sort of strange because I am otherwise extremely shy. I remember watching Flashdance as a kid though and being totally fascinated. I got the outfit and danced around a lot to 'Maniac'. My mom was a single mom and didn't really have the money for many dance classes, so that was the extent of it. I started belly dance (Middle Eastern Dance) about 8 years ago. At that point, I thought it was too late to become a professional dancer but soon realized there is room for every age and size in this dance. That's one of the great things about it. Q. Who inspired you to take up belly dancing? A. Her name is Mayte Garcia. She used to be married to Prince. I was a big Prince fan growing up and about ten years ago; he had a world tour where there was an Arabian Nightslike theme. Mayte danced with veils, zills (finger cymbals) and balanced a sword on her head while doing floorwork. She was the first belly dancer
that I had ever seen, and I was sort of shocked by the way she moved. At the time, I guess I was jealous and just wrote off what she was doing with the notion that "I could probably do that too." So a few years later, I took a class and was instantly h o o k e d . Nothing about belly dance was easy, and my jealousy grew into complete admiration of her. A few years ago, I actually got to meet Mayte in person and see her perform at a private birthday party for her mom. She's an amazing dancer and still an inspiration. Q. What were some of your trainings? A. I have trained in the Turkish and Egyptian cabaret styles (Egyptian is my favorite), as well as folkloric styles from Morocco and Tunisia. Right now I am working with a Russian dancer named Laura. Her style is very Lebanese, (she lived and danced there for several years) which is somewhat rare in NYC. I am also studying semi-classical Indian dance. It's sort of a fusion of
Bharata Natyam and Kuchipudi. We perform to bollywood songs, but the style is very classically based. The footwork is pretty intense!
I am also studying North Indian classical singing. Singing is also something I've liked to do, but never really thought about it seriously until now. My teacher is absolutely amazing. She seems to think I have talent, so that's pretty rewarding. Contd....Page 20 15
MISS NOVEMBER
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DAMESHE
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Guiana 1838 FILM INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS
DIRECTED BY ROHIT JAGESSAR by Naz
ROHIT JAGESSAR
T
he filmmaking journey of the writer Q. RED INK-How long did it take you to materialize this film? and director of GUIANA1838 A. Rohit Jagessar- I started the film in 1997 and got it began right from his early years completed two days before its release date‌September when his grandmother would tell 22nd, 2004. him tales of how Q. RED INK-Was there any obstacles? they came on ships from India to the A. Rohit Jagessar- There are many British Caribbean. obstacles making a period film. Weather The story telling usually happened conditions was a major problem while after dinner when the family would sit shooting. The heat in the sugar cane plantaaround an old lantern and listen as tion where I did a major part of my film Grandma went into great detail narratwas so intense that at times it was unbearing tales of a time when the mighty able for the actors and crew. Then it would British empire owned colonies in the rain and delay shooting for days at a stretch British West Indies and the Caribbean as we couldn't get the equipment to the and millions of helpless men, women locations. and children were left for want so that Q. RED INK-How did you determine sugar production would prosper for the your cast? British plantation owners. A. Rohit Jagessar- Casting for the film Rohit listened attentively to the stowas handled by my casting director Pooja ries as his Grandmother described the Bathija. She would bring me head shots of people and their struggles on the land AARTI BATHIJA & KUMAR GAURAV actors and I would go through them and on which she once worked and lived on. decide what role should be assigned to each As the years went by, the stories of his ancestors would actor I picked. remain with Rohit. Seven years ago, in 1997, he started Q. RED INK- What was it like filming in Guyana? writing the GUIANA1838 screenplay, telling the story of A. Rohit Jagessar- Filming in Guyana was a wonderful the people of the land once known as British GUIANA in experience. My crew trained many locals in film lighting the Caribbean. and sound ahead of time and they participated in my proGUIANA 1838 is now a major motion picture and will duction. The crowds were amazing. At times up to a thouPremiere in New York at UA Crossbay Cinemas in Ozone sand people would come by and watch us shoot. Park, Queens on September 24th through October 10th, Q. RED INK- What can we expect for the future? What 2004. The film will have its Premiere in Toronto and other are some of your upcoming projects? places later this year. A. Rohit Jagessar- Parts two and three of the Guiana Q. RED INK-What motivated/influenced you to do such 1838 trilogy, The Porkknockers and Tagore. a project? RED INK Magazine was very honored and proud to meet A. Rohit Jagessar- My grand mother used to tell me stoand interviewed a very talented and humble individual (Mr ries of how she came by ship from India. It was her story Rohit Jagessar) we wish him much success with his upcomtelling which inspired me to make Guiana 1838. ing endeavors. u
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Guiana 1838 - Film By Rohit Jagessar -
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Contd........Belly Dancer Q. How often do you train? A. I am working full time right now, so I rehearse only about 5 or 6 hours a week (that's about 3 or 4 nights a week). Q. Tell us some of your techniques. A. Right now I am trying to work on my own fusion style that combines Middle Eastern and Indian dances. There are similarities, but many differences; so coming up with the right balance is a bit of a challenge. As far a belly dance goes, I'm probably best known for having strong hip technique. I also dance with veils, zills, and candles. Q. Do you dance alone or with a group or both? A. I dance as a soloist, and as a member of the dance troupe, Belly Trance. Q. Being a Belly Dancer, please provide us with some pros and cons in this industry. A. Cons: Of course the first is the stereotype that it's a 'sexual' dance. For a long time I didn't like to tell people what I do because the reactions can be somewhat negative, but now I don't care. I am proud of the hard work I have put towards it. Also, dancers don't get paid very well, so it's hard to make a decent living at it. Being an African-American dancer is especially interesting. There aren't many of us, and while I have never felt any overt racism myself, I have heard that it is out there. I think American audiences sort of expect a "dark" dancer but Middle Eastern audiences prefer to see a dancer with lighter skin. Pros: This dance form can really transform you-inside and out.
In addition to being able to express myself creatively, I have grown so much self confidence and inner strength from this art. The dance is a sisterhood, and is a great way to make friends. Also, it's a great way to get some exercise! Most importantly, you can learn a tremendous amount about other cultures through studying the dances created there. In this day and time, I think educating yourself about the world, and especially the Middle East, can go a long way to dispel ignorance and hatred. Q. Where do you perform? (Locally or Internationally) A. Currently I have been performing Middle Eastern and Indian dance at schools and cultural festivals, and parties all around the New York City. I will be performing with Belly Trance at LaCaverna in NYC in November. Q. For someone interested in becoming a belly dancer, what advice can you give to the newcomer? A. Find a good teacher! Ask around and visit dance studios until you find one you are comfortable with. When I first started dancing I immersed myself in CD's and videos. You can learn so much by watching videos and listening to music. Also, practice practice practice. You will probably find that it is a pretty hard dance, but you will get better in time. Just relax and have fun! RED INK Magazine was very privileged to have the one and one conversation with Miss Dameshe. We wish her well and continued success with her dancing career. u By Althea Wilson
Gary Greenstein, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
Lovelina Nadkarni MS, RD, CDE
Obstetrician / Gynecologist to his new office specializing in complete women’s medical services.
Registered D ietit ian
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Certified Diabetes Educator Certified Dietitian/Nutritionist NYS
Dr. Gary Greenstein will guide you through your experience in labor and delivery in a state-of-theart, outstanding unit. These suites are equipped with the latest medical technology, combined with a warm and comfortable environment for a safe and memorable childbirth experience. Patients are provided with private shower and bathroom facilities. Consultation by high risk specialists and inhouse Neonatologist (newborn specialists) are available 24 hours per day.
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How to Keep Your Heart Healthy ?
PART II
GET THE FACTS
AT THE HEART OF THE MATTER by Fazia Khan
G
et moving and maintain a healthy weight - Exercise improves heart function, lowers blood pressure and blood cholesterol, and boosts energy. And being overweight forces the heart to work harder. But about 1 in 4 U.S. adults are sedentary. The general recommendation from the NHLBI is to get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, and preferably all, days of the week. And you don't need to run a marathon or buy an expensive gym club membership to do it. The 30 minutes also don't have to be done all at once, but can be broken up into 10-minute intervals throughout your day. Talk with your doctor about what form of exercise is best for you. Those with severe heart disease, for example, are advised against strenuous exercise. Teach your children early that exercise is fun and good for them. Families can walk together, ride bikes, and chase after balls in a park. "But we have to show them," she says. "Our children are exercising their thumbs with computers and video games, and obesity in childhood is epidemic."
HEALTHY HEART
A heart-healthy diet means a diet that's low in fat, cholesterol, and salt, and high in fruits, vegetables, grains, and fiber.
Stick to a nutritious, well-balanced diet
This advice might make you groan if your usual lunch consists of cheeseburgers with french fries or pizza slices topped with sausage. But the good news is that diet isn't an all-or-nothing affair. A heart-healthy diet means a diet that's low in fat, cholesterol, and salt, and high in fruits, vegetables, grains, and fiber. "But it doesn't mean that you can never have pizza or ice cream again," Bolger says. You could start by telling yourself that you will eat a big leafy green salad first, and then you will have one slice of cheese pizza, not three slices with sausage. "Or if you must have a burger, don't get your usual order of french fries," Bolger suggests. "That alone cuts hundreds of calories."
T RY   O U R M E N U Bon Appetite
RECIPE:
Caribbean Chicken
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons oil 6 single chicken breasts (24 oz. raw weight) skinned, boned, washed, sliced in 1/2" strips 2-3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1/4 cup peach or apricot chutney (fruit sweetened) 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon each curry powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard 1-1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth 3 tablespoons dry white wine 2 teaspoons coconut flavoring Instructions: In a large skillet, heat oil to medium high, and saute chicken pieces until brown. Remove chicken, set aside. Saute garlic and onion in skillet until soft, and golden. Stir in chutney and spices and cook one minute. Add broth and wine, and heat through, stirring constantly. Return chicken to sauce, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Stir in coconut flavoring. Serve over hot rice. Nutrition Facts: Amount Per Serving: Calories 160 Fat 6 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 44 mg,
Experts point out that a heart-healthy diet should be the routine. That way, when you have high-fat food every now and then, you're still on track. Making a high-fat diet the routine is asking for trouble. Contd..on page 22 21
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Contd........Healthy Heart Control your blood pressure About 50 million American adults have high blood pressure, also called hypertension. The top number of a blood pressure reading, called the systolic pressure, represents the force of blood in the arteries as the heart beats. The bottom number, called diastolic pressure, is the force of blood in the arteries as the heart relaxes between beats. High blood pressure makes the heart work extra hard and hardens artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. A blood pressure level of 140 over 90 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) or higher is considered high. The NHLBI recently set a new "pre-hypertension" level of any reading above 120 over 80 mm Hg. Poor eating habits and physical inactivity both contribute to high blood pressure. Table salt increases average levels of blood pressure, and this effect is greater in some people than in others. - Prevent and manage diabetes - Quit smoking - Control blood cholesterol
Treating Heart Disease Once doctors determine that you have clogged coronary arteries, the treatment plan typically involves a combination of drugs, lifestyle changes, and procedures that open up the arteries. Drugs: Thrombolytic drugs, also referred to as "clot-busting drugs," are given during a heart attack to dissolve blood clots in coronary arteries and restore blood flow to the heart. Because of its anti-clotting abilities, aspirin is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective to help lower the risk of having a second heart attack. Other drugs commonly used to treat people with heart disease include drugs that lower blood pressure, angiotensin-converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which help the heart pump blood better, and beta blockers, which slow the heart down. Nitrates and calcium channel blockers relax blood vessels and relieve chest pain. Diuretics decrease fluid in the body. Blood cholesterol-lowering drugs reduce levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), the "bad cholesterol," in the blood and increase high-density lipoproteins (HDL), the "good cholesterol." Catheter-based treatments: Angioplasty is a procedure in which a thin tube called a catheter is put into an artery in the groin and threaded up to the narrowed artery in the heart. The catheter, which has a balloon at the tip, is used to widen the artery. Routinely, tiny mesh wire tubes called stents are then inserted into the artery to hold it open permanently. But a major challenge is restenosis, which is the reclogging or renarrowing of an artery after angioplasty or stenting.
C-reactive Protein: A New Risk Factor Among the new risk factors that may be linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease is C-reactive protein (CRP). It's produced by the liver as a response to injury or infection and is a sign of inflammation in the body. Research correlates high levels of CRP with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Though the evidence is conflicting, some researchers believe that CRP itself is not a risk factor, but elevated levels of CRP could mean that some part of the cardiovascular system is inflamed, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. Information about CRP and other new risk factors is still emerging. I hope this article has shed some light on heart disease. For info. or questions about Be kind to your heart. Eat article, please send email well, exercise, and see your REDINK@REDGRAFIX.COM doctor regularly. u Attention: Fazia
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SPORTS “ M R . To u r d e F r a n c e ” LANCE ARMSTRONG by S. Ali
V
ive le Lance! From cancer survivor to the most dominant cyclist of his era, Lance Armstrong may be the best rider the Tour de France has ever seen. The Texan and his U.S. Postal team crowned a record sixth Tour title Sunday. Only he knows whether he'll go for seven, and few can predict how cycling in the U.S. will fare when he does retire. His mother was 17 when he was born, and his biological father left two years later. A step-father whipped him. Too small for football and too poor for the in-group in Plano, Texas, he discovered early that he could smother psychic pain with the real pain of long-distance swimming, running, cycling. That pain was self-inflicted yet comforting because he controlled it. Of them all, cycling was the best because "a bike is freedom to roam, without rules and without adults." How can you not be impressed? Lance Armstrong created his own monster out of his humilation, his fears, and his pain, as well as a heart almost a third larger than average, a resting pulse of 32 beats a minute that can accelerate beyond 200, and lungs that can consume record amounts of oxygen. From such materials he created, in my mind and in a majority of yours, the greatest athlete of our time. But before we get carried away, let's demystify this superhero. Lance is a hardcase, rational and blunt, so he should appreciate some straight talk. For all his superb conditioning and mental toughness, he wouldn't last a minute in the big leagues of any stick-and-ball sport; he never perfected those skills. Bo knows, he is no "all-'round" athlete. He just does one thing, something that shreds your body, your mind and your emotions for hours at a time for days on end, and he does it better than anyone else on Earth. In 1999, when he won the Tour de France, probably the most demanding major sports event in the world, his victory was described as one of the greatest comebacks in sports history. But it was far more than that, because he had never won it before. He was not "coming back" to where he had once been; at 25, he was a world-class rider but had simply never fulfilled his potential. He was said to be uncoachable, lacking in discipline. He was brash and raced disrespectfully. His character was in question; he failed to finish most of the
Tours de France h e ' d entered. He needed cancer to find out just how tough he really was. H e returned to the races in 1997, and established a foundation for cancer education a n d research. It's about the most inspiring and hands-on charitable work ever seen accomplished by an active athlete. u
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N AT T Y K I N G “ N O G U N S TO T O W N �
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atty King was born in Bath, St Thomas, Kevin Christopher Roberts sees himself as a lover of good music. Influenced by The Wailers, Burning Spear, and his role model Luciano, Natty King said "he listened to these artists because they fascinated him." In fact he was so impressed with Luciano that at one point he called himself Lucie B. While attending Bath Primary and Junior High, Natty King never missed an opportunity to showcase his talents. He would perform at school concerts and at community events. Teachers and students were impressed with his voice and they would encourage him to pursue his dream of being a singer. When Natty King left school he did just that. He got a push in the right direction when he met Steady Ranks in the early 90's. Natty who used to perform Luciano's songs said Steady Ranks encouraged him to start doing his own songs. So Natty did just that. Soon after Natty King's girlfriend introduced him to Steelie and Clevie and he did a single for them 'Badness Hype' on the Bad Weather riddim for their 2000 label. The song was released in 2000. Unfortunately there wasn't much buzz surrounding this song as other major artistes on the riddim overshadowed it. Natty King soon linked up with Donovan Francis on his Everything Natural label he recorded 'Move On' a combination done with Terry Ganzie and Ottowa. He also did 'Forces' (a combination with Fredlocks, Joshua and Isassi) and 'Country under Siege' with Gaddiel. The next project Natty King was into with record label Lustry King out of California. He recorded 'Si Di Wicked A Come,' 'Man Of Truth' (with Al Pancho). Then it was onto another label 'Ras I Record where he recorded 'True Love' with Gaddiel and 'Rastaman Chant'. Although Natty King had been doing a lot of recording, it just seemed as if the recognition the songs deserved were elud24
ing him. That is until he met producer Wade Brammer who helped with his career. He later introduced him to his cousin Jimmy Ricks who owned Joe Jam Music. Ricks later signed him to his company, and from the very fist recording it seemed the two creative forces made the difference. Natty recorded 'No Guns To Town' and 'Love Me' " No Guns To Town' on the Two Miles label took off like a rocket sitting on top of several charts both in Jamaica and overseas. Natty King dominated Mega Jamz, RJR, Hot 102 FM and ER charts staying at number one for five weeks straight. It was also number one in England on Choice FM Radio Station as well as in the United Sates on South Florida an New York Reggae Charts and it is also enjoyed strong support in the Caribbean. His follow up single 'Mister Greedy' on Insight Records also went No. 1 on the local charts. Incidentally, 'No Guns To Town' and 'Mister Greedy' videos were also No. 1 on the Video Chart In Jamaica. He was voted the number One Rural Artist for 20003 in Jamaica. He also cupped the 2003 Awards in the Best New Entertainer category at the 23rd International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) in Manhattan, New York, as well as the 2003 Jamacia Federations Music Award (JFM) For Best New Singer. With two number one songs under his belt, Natty King took the airwaves by storm 2003 to 2004 with 'No Guns to Town' & 'Mister Greedy' distributed by Sonic Sounds. Both songs show the depth and consciousness of a young man who catapulted on the scene with a blaze of consciousness. He was influenced from an early age by his mother who had a 'wicked voice' is finally living his dream of getting his message out. Look out for Natty King's new release album 'Man From The East'. Among the tracks that will be featured on it are his two No. 1 songs 'No Guns To Town' 'Mister Greedy' among others. u By Kenneth Randall
RED INK MAGAZINE
NEWS UPDATE ON NATTY KING Cultural and conscious singer Natty King is steadily building his repertoire for a soon to be released debut album, which will be loaded with songs that one can easily relate to. Natty King is fast becoming a big favorite among music fans who support tunes that are a source of inspiration and upliftment to people. Natty King's hardworking management team produced a video for 'Mr. Greedy', which enhanced the song. The video got wide acceptance with heavy rotation on cable stations and both television stations in Jamaica. After enjoying much success with those songs, Natty King showed his 'afromantic' side when he recorded the tune 'Love Me,' which is expressing his love to his princess, and she is in return showing hers to him. 'Love Me' was recorded on the Treasure rhythm on the Insight Records label for producers Wade Brammer and Jimmy Ricks. Ricks is also Natty King's manager. The tune 'Love Me' is getting 'nuff love' on the Treasure rhythm, which is on pre-release. Other songs on the riddim are 'Apple Of My Eye' by Turbulence; 'Bring It On' by Tanya Stephens; 'Man Dead' by Predator and David Mavado; 'Dem See Yah Now' by Kiprich; 'Break Up To Make Up' by Red Dragon; 'Sadom' by King Fire; 'Love Is A Treasure' by Johnny Clark and 'Wasting My Love' by Night Dew. Lovers of good music should look forward to Natty King's debut album, which will be released soon. u
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Various Artists
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HAIR WARS-Apollo Theatre FA S H I O N ? C O R N E R SEE WHAT’S IN STYLE
- Get the scoop on fashion, see what’s in & what’s not.
L
ights, camera hair! You may be wondering what a "Hair War" is. It is not so much a war, as it is a competition a design battle, if you will. Some of the most imaginative hair and clothing creations ever seen grace the stage. This Hair War is also a fashion show, with musical acts and synchronized dancers to boot. A Hair Entertainer presents their fashion much as a clothing designer would. The show is runwayinspired, complete with an emcee describing the model's outfit. Lots of style and passion clearly shone through. And the general rule appeared to be there are no rules. Hair fashion lit up the stage at the world famous Apollo Theatre Sunday, October 17, 2004. This was an event not to be missed. Hair designers from all around the country came en masse to New York for the "Hump the Grinder's Hair Wars: The Battle of America's Hair Entertainers". From a head-piece with a fishbowl, to a hair hat with a working television, to Broadway-inspired themes, like the Wizard of Oz - creativity abounds. Full costumes were constructed of human hair!! Ladies, you could even accessorize - bags, boots, necklaces and bracelets were part of the creator's shows, as well. Designers with names as imaginative as the hair styles they created - Big Bad D, Little Willie of Detroit, Steven Noss, the self-proclaimed "Baddest Whyte Boy In the Hair Business", and the "mane" man (who has put this hair show on the road since 1994), David "Hump the Grinder" Humphries (nicknamed from his Deejay days 20 years back). The evening was electric. First, being in the presence of the history of the Apollo Theatre, spurred near-perfect performances from all of the models, actors, and dance troupes that adorned the stage. The emcee for the evening, LaToya Pearson, kept the crowd entertained with her flawless presentation, spontaneous wit, and comic interjections during the performances.Audience members howled at her jokes, and applauded loudly for her throughout most of the evening. Somehow, this still paled to the stage acts for the night, as varied as they were entertaining. Highlights included Steven Noss' Wizard of Oz adaptation complete with Tin Man, Dorothy, Cowardly Lion
and Glenda, the Good Witch. Her headpiece included a small helicopter, which powered up and flew across the stage, into the designer's waiting hands! No less stunning was a full body hair creation - skirt, bodice, and a hat with a flip-down door, which revealed a tiny, working black- and-white TV. Fans hovering in the autumn air outside the famed theater, were regaled with highlights of the NY Yankee baseball game from this small screen during intermission. F ashion Contd..on page 29 27
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Contd........Fashion Corner
SOME OF THE FACES BEHIND HAIR WARS
Ap o l l o Theater
- T h e b e s t o f t h e best s h o w e d - o ff t h eir designs.
H A I R WA R S
One group of stage performers wore full-length colorful suits, rainbow hair and wigs - even eyelashes and fingernails were painted to match. They performed a live hip-hop musical number while showing their wares. Mr. Little of Ohio, a crowd favorite, amazed onlookers as he transformed from an elderly museum patron (set in the future), to his younger, present-day self. With the aid of two helpers, a young woman with a beautiful coif was lifted and flipped upside-down. Mr. Little lay on his back, spun around in circles, all the while transforming her "do", in about 60 seconds. When she was righted, her hair was in a completely different style! Now that's talent. Patriotism was a theme, as well, from an adaptation of the Twin Towers, to a 3-foot wide version of the American flag, the letters "USA" emblazoned down the front of the headdress. And Hump the Grinder was not to be outdone. He created a classic wedding dress motif, with a pinned, swept-back hair style any bride would be proud to wear. This show, sponsored by Janet Collection Brand Hair Products, and these proud hair fashion stylists, representing the nation from places as far and wide as California, Kentucky, and Ohio, to name but a few, will put this show back on the road twice more this year. Next stop, Los Angeles, followed by Dallas before the Winter holiday. If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend seeing this show, and supporting these young, extremely talented artists. I guarantee the entertainment value! u By Raymond Taylor
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S I G N
Ch e c k Your
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F o r Yo u r P l e a s u r e You're curious, restless and easily bored. If you don't find something interesting to do, you'll burst. So start looking. And start trying (Mar 21 - April 19) to find someone to do it with you, which shouldn't be too hard.
Aries
You've got one more day to take care of your errands, clean the house and make those phone calls you've been putting off. (April 20 - May 20) Afterwards, you can have a few friends over. Don't forget the pizza.
Taurus
Talk to your lover about your joint future; you'll get a lot Gemini of ideas discussed and find new energy to achieve your (May 21 - June 21) goals. Celebrate with your favourite dinner.
Po e m
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LOVE - THE EXPLANATION Love is a feeling, That churns up the insides There's no reason Nobody knows why But love is addictive
play your cards right, you'll be in the company of those who'll make Cancer youIf you feel comfortable to be spontaneous, surprising, and wonderfully (June 22 - July 22) fun. And if they're not around -- well, you'll probably do it anyway.
Everyone gets this feeling sometime Love is precious and not a game to play So remember if and when you fall in love
You'refeelinglively,restlessandnoteagerforanythingevenremotelyresembling routine. Better talk to your companions before they plan some(July 23 - Aug 22) thing you won't enjoy, because you won't hesitate to mention it.
and someday you will
You may be concerned about the behaviour of a certain someone who seems to have had a personality makeover. If it's to your benefit, (Aug 23 - Sep 22) leave it alone. If they're cramping your style, speak up.
so much too.
Leo
Virgo
You're in the mood forA) running up your phone bill; B) spending the entire Libra daywithsomeonenewandinteresting;orC)goingonajourneywithanappro(Sep 23 - Oct 22) priate companion. Can't stand the indecision? Choose D)All of the above. A silly risk may lead you to run short on funds; listen to your sweetheart if they suggest some practical financial (Oct 23 - Nov 21) advice. Resist temptation.
Scorpio
Don't be afraid to love that someone that loves you by Halima Khan
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Riddle
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Think fast: There's an electric train traveling south. The wind is from the north-west. In which direction would the smoke from the train be blowing? by Richard Persaud An electric train would not have smoke.
It's time to play. If you're not familiar with the concept, you really Capricorn should reacquaint yourself with it. Let go and pretend you're a child (Dec 22 - Jan 19) again. That means unplugging the phone and the computer. Passion heats up through an intellectual connection. Direct communication will lead to an expansion of feelings (Jan 20 - Feb 18) for each other.
Solution:
There's plenty of activity to keep busy with, but take the time to share yourself with your sweetheart. Have fun with (Nov 22 - Dec 21) your high energy.
Sagittarius
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Guess Who ?
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Aquarius
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Answer: 1- Christina Aguillera 2- J-Lo 3-Michael Jackson
This moment is perfect for having that talk you've been putting off, whether it's with a lover or a dear friend. Don't worry about the (Feb 19 - Mar 20) outcome, either. You'll both be willing to compromise.
Pisces
3
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