JUNE EDITION 2013
SHOWCASE MAGAZINE
CHIEZDA WASHINGTON HER MISSION:
EMPOWER SINGLE MOM TO CEO
HEALTH AMBASSADOR
LIFE COACH AUTHOR
MAGAZINE
FOCUS:
*Cover Photo by: Renee Wilhite RM Photography Upper Marlboro, Maryland
the PROGRESSIVE BLACK WOMAN
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www.sistersandfriends.com
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INSIDE EDITION Chiezda Washington (feature)
SPECIALADDITIONS 16
I believe my greatest triumph was continuing to believe in my dreams when no one else did. One of the most compelling things I would share with anyone who is considering becoming or is currently an entrepreneur pursuing their dream is to persevere when they're ready to give up. Our blessings don't often show themselves when things are going well; they come when we are in our darkest hour and God is working on our behalf.
Tracey McDaniel
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Chosen after a comprehensive nationwide search for a leader with extensive experience and a track record of success in marketing and promoting states and metropolitan areas to business location decision -makers in the United States and abroad.
Tara Colquitt
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I have assisted small business owners who have “mixed credit scores” that interfere with their ability to secure business contracts.
Becky A. Davis
AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT LaTersa Blakely Robyn Hawkins
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GUEST CONTRIBUTORS
Melisha Anderson-Ruiz Author Sharon Fox Delayna Keller-Watkins Tifini Lewis Contact SHOWCASE Magazine scmzine76@outlook.com
MUSIC SPOTLIGHT JAZZ SENSATION EUGENIE JONES Black Lace Blue Tears
People are the second most important part of a successful, long term business. You win or lose with the people you have on your team or in your circles. Great leaders are able to inspire people to follow their vision and purpose.
Parisnicole Payton
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She is an expert in leading by example. Her dynamic leadership, advisement, time management, stellar customer service and networking skills enable her to give referrals, resources and recommendations of the Who, What, When, Where and Why in the field of sports and entertainment.
"Some people speak of dreaming in color. I’d say I dream in jazz and wake the next morning with lyrics and arrangements in my head. Here – in front of microphone and behind a pen sharing those dreams with others – is where I belong and where I feel very at home.”
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On The Road Again SHOWCASE Magazine a vision that began in 2007 supporting Black Owned Businesses, two publications came out of the vision, but then I decided the timing just wasn’t right, something was missing, the layout to childlike, I had not researched, no experience, what had I gotten myself into. I realized it took more than just supporting, it meant that I needed to start connecting on a more personal/professional level in order to appreciate the commitment of business owners. Business owners work too hard, endure much in the attempt to pull in prospective clients. SHOWCASE Magazine was laid to rest. Six years later after connecting, building friendships, gaining more experience (P.E.A.S Magazine) it was time to take the vision on the road again, but this time the focus would be on the PROGRESSIVE Black Woman. Still not an expert, but striving to develop along the way. Each edition will focus on Women who offer services, products, encouragement, healthy living, comfort food, music, community. My way in supporting the “Sisterhood”. Communities across the land may not have the total picture of Women who are excelling in their perspective areas of choice, trust me there are many. I hope you become inspired, encouraged by all the Women in this edition..
Denise Bethune Editor-In Chief/Co-Founder
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“As a compassionate servant and leader, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to serve at various state and county levels on the Maryland Commission for Women, the Maryland Caregivers Support Coordinating Council, the Maryland Veterans Resilience Initiative, and as Chairwoman of the Prince George’s County Veterans Commission. When people ask what drives me, I just simply say I remember feeling lonely, depressed, scared, and ashamed, and I remember being homeless and not having enough food to eat. I remember the transition, the struggle…I remember being these women.” Ginger Miller (WVI)
Branding gives you a clear competitive advantage; it defines who you are and distinguishes you in the market. Establishing, building and improving your branding is, therefore, one of your best marketing tools available as it links your overall company image to loyalty and trust, which is a guarantee for higher business results. Innovative Design Style (IDS) IDS started in 2003 when creative visionary Rebekah Jenkins decided to put a lifetime of innovative creations to work. Having extensive graphic design, fine art, marketing, and customer service experience, Rebekah brings a unique perspective to the Graphic/Creative Design arena.
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Economic growth in New Jersey can credit Tracye McDaniel. Her mission is to make New Jersey the place to grow and nurture your business. Excited in featuring this progressive Black Woman, she represents my State. Tracye McDaniel brings a wealth of experience, education, commitment and the promise for the State of New Jersey. Tracye McDaniel serves as president and chief executive officer of Choose New Jersey, an independently funded and operated nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to encourage and nurture economic growth throughout the State of New Jersey, including a focus on making New Jersey’s most distressed cities engines for growth and opportunity. Ms. McDaniel has more than 26 years of leadership experience in economic development, destination marketing, public relations, tourism and international business development, including holding cabinet-level positions in three Texas gubernatorial administrations. Ms. McDaniel is a Ford Foundation Regional Sustainable Development (RSD) Fellow, a program of American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). She was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). With her extensive economic development experience and expertise, Ms. McDaniel has led Choose NJ’s creation of a solid foundation in the organization’s first operational year, already influencing NJ’s business attraction and
retention success by conducting research-based lead-generation initiatives and promoting the competitive advantages of doing business in the state. Ms. McDaniel holds leadership positions in numerous professional and industry organizations and is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin. McDaniel was chosen after a comprehensive nationwide search for a leader with extensive experience and a track record of success in marketing and promoting states and metropolitan areas to business location decision-makers in the United States and abroad. She brings more than 26 years of executive and senior management experience in economic development, destination marketing, public relations, tourism and international business development. She has held cabinet-level positions in three gubernatorial administrations. McDaniel is a Ford Foundation Regional Sustainable Development (RSD) Fellow, a program of American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). McDaniel was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the world’s top organization for economic development professionals. Prior to assuming her current post, McDaniel served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP), where she directed the execution of the organization’s 10-year Strategy Plan focused on membership, economic develop ment and public policy. She also had daily
Tracye McDaniel oversight of GHP’s $32 million aggressive five-year marketing program generating leads for economic development throughout a vast, 10-county region. To date, the progress toward the 2015 goals include: over 78,000 net new jobs created; over $3 billion in capital investment and trade growth of 52% since 2005. Previously, McDaniel served as Executive Director of the Office of the Governor Economic Development and Tourism Division, spearheading award-winning economic develop ment and tourism operations for the State. During her leadership, Texas created 16,506 net new jobs and a capital investment of more than $4.3 billion. She also served as Chief Executive Officer for the Texas Economic Development Corporation’s “Texas One” Program, a public/private partnership marketing initiative to generate job leads by actively promoting Texas as a business location.
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SUMMER DELIGHTS
Author Sharon Fox
STRAWBERRY CAPRESE SALAD
1 pound fresh mozzarella 10 strawberries handful of fresh arugula 2 tablespoons dried cranberries (Raisins) 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil alder smoked salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste Directions: Cut or tear mozzarella into chunks. Arrange on four salad plates. Thinly slice strawberries over cheese. Scatter arugula on top; sprinkle with cranberries. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, then olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Let stand 15 minutes before serving. Notes: For a less peppery flavor, use romaine lettuce instead of arugula. Add fresh pineapple and use a strawberry vinaigrette!
SEAFOOD LASAGNA
1 green onion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup butter, divided 1/2 cup chicken broth 1 bottle (8 ounces) clam juice 1 pound bay scallops 1 pound uncooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined 8 ounces lump crab OR imitation crabmeat, chopped 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, divided 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1-1/2 cups 2% milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained. Directions: In a large skillet, sauté onion in oil and 2 tablespoons butter until tender. Stir in broth and clam juice; bring to a boil. Add the scallops, shrimp, crab and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4-5 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are firm and opaque, stirring gently. Drain, reserving cooking liquid; set seafood mixture aside. In a large saucepan, melt the remaining butter; stir in flour until smooth. Combine milk and reserved cooking liquid; gradually add to the saucepan. Add salt and remaining pepper. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in cream and 1/4 cup cheese. Stir 3/4 cup white sauce into the seafood mixture. Spread 1/2 cup white sauce in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Top with three noodles; spread with half of the seafood mixture and 1-1/4 cups sauce. Repeat layers. Top with remaining noodles, sauce and cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting. Yield: 12 servings. 12 SHOWCASE Magazine June 2013
Come be INSPIRED and EMPOWERED at the 2013 "I Am" Conference! You are more than what people see. How did they still see Purpose, Provision, Perseverance and Power in the midst of their storms. Come hear some great testimonies and words of encouragement. Tickets are $20 but includes Networking and access into the Style Lounge (Lashes, Hair, Fashion, Health and Wellness and MORE!!)
“I AM PURPOSE”
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VISION LANDSCAPER SPEAKER AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR From Brokenness to Greatness is a book about the journey God took me through in order to help me step into my greatness. This book will inspire those who are broken, suffering with low self-esteem or for those who can’t seem to forget about their past. My prayer is for each and every person to stop letting their past dictate their future and to start stepping into their Godgiven purpose. “If you heal the little girl, there will be no broken women.” When you know better, you can definitely do better…… LaTersa Blakely,Vision Landscaper teaches women to plant goals, cultivate ideas, and plant vision so that they can live a happier and fulfilled life. I am definitely the one you contact when you are ready to plant the vision, and take your seeds of Greatness and plant a beautiful garden. I support women with overcoming their adversities in their life and begin to plant seeds for a new harvest in their life.
Homemade with Love. No chemicals or preservatives. We are a bakery creating Gourmet Bread and Butters for you to enjoy. Our menu has several Gourmet Loaves that are baked fresh daily. We deliver party trays, personal loaves and gift baskets or ship boxes and packages ready to be served at any party or event and in your home. Experience our Goodness Today!
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feature Chiezda G. Washington, HLC
VP Marketing Director Youngevity - 90 for Life
Chiezda G. Washington, HLC is a Certified Holistic Life Coach, Health Ambassador and self-published author with a background in Business. Her professional career began in 1995 as an Executive Assistant and she has since started and operated 2 successful microbusinesses from her home. A single parent of two teen aged daughters, she is currently a Health Ambassador and Sr. Executive Marketing Director with Youngevity90 for Life. She enjoys helping individuals and families create entrepreneurial success through the direct sales distribution model. Her professional career began in 1995 as an Executive Assistant and she has since started and operated 2 successful micro-businesses from her home. A single parent of two teen aged daughters, she is currently a Health Ambassador and Sr. Executive Marketing Director with Youngevity- 90 for Life.
Chiezda G. Washington a name you won’t forget, her brand at all levels is to empower, change lives, offer healthier solutions. When I first connected with this young woman, right away there was a sense that her destiny was going to be long standing; her destiny relied solely on the direction she would take. She took the challenged while enduring much from past experiences, thankful she was able to rise above and move onward to what would ultimately bring her to a place, celebrating the challenges faced, preparation for what’s to come. Chiezda Washington is a Speaker, Certified Holistic Life Coach, Author and Health Ambassador. As the Founder of the brand Chiezda Speaks, she has a passion for public speaking, educating and empowering others through life changing health decisions.
She enjoys helping individuals and families create entrepreneurial success through the direct sales distribution model. Chiezda’s passion for public speaking and educating her audience on the benefits of self-care and preventative maintenance is what drives her speaking career. When Chiezda isn’t traveling to support her thriving direct sales business, she is working on her latest book, Single Mom to CEO: A Guide to Overcoming Your Fears and Stepping into Your Destiny© Additionally she has authored her first e-book, Direct Sales for the Single Mom which is available on Amazon.com and Lulu.com To contact Chiezda Washington, HLC for speaking engagements, Holistic Life Coaching or Nutritional consultations; email chiezda@chiezdaspeaks.com, business phone 443-272-1086 or friend her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chiezdaspeaks
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"Don't allow what you don't have to keep you from getting what you want." Q: You have been so committed in changing the dynamics when it comes to you and your children, at all levels, what has been your greatest challenge.? When I became a mother, at age 19, I decided then that the course of my daughter's (one at the time) life was going to be phenomenally different that my own and so I charted a course of self-development in trying to become the best mother I could be. No one could have told me just how difficult it was going to be with no solid support system. One of my greatest challenges came after I accepted motherhood for the second time just two years later and so now I was raising two under two. In my journey to evolve as a mother, business woman and entrepreneur, I've made tons of mistakes but none that were so detrimental that I couldn't recover. I think it is imperative that anyone, more specifically, single moms take risks toward pursuing their dreams to lead by example for their children. No, it will not be easy but in order for us to encourage our children to do the same, they must first believe it can be done by the examples we set for them. Q: What advice would you give to Woman in achieving success..? Where would I start? I'd start with asking her what is the one thing that brought her absolute joy? Having answered that question, I'd lead her into the beginning of a journey that will take her on the ride of her life. Pursuing your dreams doesn't just take tenacity...it takes perseverance, turning obstacles into opportunities, being extremely optimistic, being Faith-filled, trusting in yourself and your abilities, asking for help when needed, seeking good counsel as well as including your loved ones in your dreams. (notice I didn't say family because even some family mem-
bers are dream stealers) When I launched out on my dream, I spent thousands of dollars just trying to find my way and if I can save someone the money I spent and help them to achieve their dreams a lot faster, I'm all for it. Having a dream isn't enough. You have to apply consistent action to it otherwise you'll keep starting and stopping until eventually you tire from exhaust tion. My one nugget I'd wholeheartedly want to share is this, "Don't allow what you don't have to keep you from getting what you want." Q: When you look back, over all that you have endured, what have been your greatest triumphs?
I believe my greatest triumph was continuing to believe in my dreams when no one else did. One of the most compelling things I would share with anyone who is considering becoming or is currently an entrepreneur pursuing their dream is to persevere when they're ready to give up. Our blessings don't often show themselves when things are going well; they come when we are in our darkest hour and God is working on our behalf.
When I launched out on my dream, I spent thousands of dollars just trying to find my way and if I can save someone the money I spent and help them to achieve their dreams a lot faster, I'm all for it. Having a dream isn't enough. You have to apply consistent action to it otherwise you'll keep starting and stopping until eventually you tire from exhaustion. My one nugget I'd wholeheartedly want to share is this, "Don't allow what you don't have to keep you from getting what you want."
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Tara Colquitt Building Financial Independence
I will assist you in learning to manage your credit, money
worked as Project Engineer for the City of Philadelphia for
and debt to create opportunities in
15 years while investing in real estate and helping potential
real estate, job creation/retention
clients with their credit. I have written numerous blogs on
and overall financial health. I have
credit restoration and have made appearances on WURD,
actively assisted clients in credit
KYW and other radio stations to give advice on credit. I
counseling, money management,
was featured in the November 2007 Essence magazine re-
debt elimination and negotiations. In
garding real estate investment. In addition, I was awarded a
other cases, I have assisted small
2012 Community Service Award by Senator Vincent
business owners who have “mixed
Hughes' office.
credit scores” that interfere with their ability to secure business contracts. I have a proven track record of helping others improve their credit scores and I educate a and mentor clients with diverse circumstances about using credit properly to gain access to wealth. I obtained my BS Degree in Civil Engineering from Howard University, I then
Take care of your personal financial health like you were taught to take care of your physical (breast/pap smear) health. Check your credit reports annually at www.annualcreditreport.com. And get any assistance you may need to stay healthy. You are not just doing it for yourself,
but for your loved ones that depend on You!
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Becky A. Davis Leadership Transformation Coach teaching entrepreneurs and small businesses and professional individuals how to grow profits and performance by focusing on purpose and people. Our mission it to stimulate the economy of the world by helping organizations and individuals shift their thinking by focusing on employee INgagement to drive performance and profits. We show leaders how to unleash employee growth so that they can maximize performance and increase profits. Based on latest Gallup employee poll, 27% of employees are actively engaged in their work, which means that 73% are not. That means you have people currently working for you that are doing just enough to get by and some that actually hate coming to work everyday. MVPwork has programs designed to help leaders and organizations INgage their employees because we know that actively INgaged employees will do more, work harder, complain less and enjoy what they do. These employees increase your customer service results, deliver more productivity and produce strong results. We provide dynamic and powerful keynotes, workshops and coaching sessions to help companies engage their teams, to create higher productivity and profits for organizations. Leadership Transformation Coach Becky Davis works with small business owners on business growth though effective leadership. Becky helps small businesses stay up after they have started up. Between startup and sustainable there is a gap and she focuses her time and attention in helping to feel that growth gap where small businesses fail. Becky has over 20 years leadership and business building experience. She was the turnaround queen in her former role as a regional vice president for Luxottica managing 12 regional directors and over 200 locations. Becky was frequently assigned to the worst performing groups to turnaround performance and grow profits which is where she learned and acquired the skills she now teaches to small business owners.
She is the President of MVPwork LLC, a consulting and executive coaching firm for small businesses and entrepreneurs, and the Founder of Leading In High Heels a non-profit business that provides leadership workshops to professional women who donate their shoes. Those shoes are given to women of domestic violence and abuse. Heels is an acronym – Healing, Elevating, Entrusting Love to Sisters. She is the author of The Leadership Transformation Blueprint book and workbook, 10 Things Managers Should Know That Employees Hate and How It’s Costing you Profits and her latest book is The P Factor: If You Want Profits, Productivity or Promotions Make Purpose and People a Priority. She is the Career coach and Expect the Best article writer for Hope for Women Magazine. She has been featured in several magazines including The Network Journal Black Professionals and Small Business News. Becky was also selected as a “Powerful Women of Influence” by The Chat Kafe Radio Show along with Former Mayor of Atlanta Shirley Franklin, Actress/Director Jasmine Guy, Best Selling Author/ Speaker Valorie Burton, and CNN journalist Soledad O’Brien. Purpose andPeople Q: Profit is first priority when it comes to business owners, not that it shouldn't have its place, I knew there was more), while reading your bio/mission I was so relieved when I read this (focusing on purpose and people) are key for organizational success, (You are clear about this, .. what advice would you give women business owners, and how would they accomplish this? Companies that are in business to make a difference in the world are purpose driven businesses. Purpose-driven businesses make more money more often then business that focus on products or their passion. Passion and products without purpose will lose you profits. I urge every entrepreneur to ask yourselves, “Why am I in business?” Is it for something to do or to do something. One of the most powerful questions is “Why?” If you answer is the latter, to do something, then ask yourself why to that answer and keep asking why until you get to the real answer. Once you know your purpose, everyone should know your purpose.
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Most of my clients started their business because of a passion or because of a product they loved yet their businesses struggled to stay a float. Martin Luther King said “We cannot all be famous but we can all be great and greatness is measured in our service to others?” Make your business great by serving using your business as the vehicle. Businesses should not only make money but they a should make a difference as well. Companies that have a clear purpose make 14:1 more revenue than companies that do have a purpose based on the research in the book, It’s Not What You Sell, It’s What You Stand For” by Roy Spence. My brand stand is Meaning over Money, Values over Volume and Purpose over Profits. This is M.V.P. at work.
all align to ensure that your purpose is fulfilled. People are the second most important part of a successful, long term business. You win or lose with the people you have on your team or in your circles. Great leaders are able to inspire people to follow their vision and purpose. When your people are committed, they will push themselves harder. You have to be a great leader, not just a great person or people will not willingly follow you. Great leaders, are not indecisive, they are problem solvers, action takers, not always popular but they don’t mind, they get rid of people who are problems and focus on people that produce. When you make purpose and people a priority, expect more profits, I promise.
When you keep the purpose of your company as your north star, your decisions and actions should
Help I’m under water, kicking and stroking…………….. T.E.A.R.S.
“Help I’m under water, kicking and stroking; trying to save a life that is utterly broken. I can’t believe I’m in this position. I only wanted to make a transition. I didn’t jump in, nor did I dive; but my lungs are filling quickly, I need to be revived. The harder I kick trying to reach the top, the heavier the pressure gets, forcing my heart to stop. Is my ocean of life really this deep? Is this really what I’ve sown? That I now must reap? Lord help me I need air, I need to be rescued, I’m in despair” (Hawkins, Robyn 2013) If T.E.A.R.S doesn’t inspire you, then the time has come for you to meet the author, her story is the reason behind this powerful message of how her T.E.A.R.S saved her life...
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Registered Nurse/Wellness Educator
HEALTHY SOUL……………………….Get the Zzz’s You Need Nearly everyone will have trouble sleeping from time to time. You may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Either way, these challenges can affect your life in many negative ways. The good news is that there are simple strategies you can use to get a better night’s sleep. Try these strategies to chase away your insomnia and wake up refreshed: 1. Keep the lights off. Even small lights can affect your body’s natural ability to determine night from day. Turn off all the lights when it’s time for bed, including nightlights, bathroom lights, and computers. Sometimes even the neon numbers from your alarm clock can be bothersome. 2. Wind down at night. Avoid trying to transition straight from an activity to sleep time. This can cause your mind to race continuously. Approximately 30 minutes before you go to bed, do something calming in order to ease your mind. Many people find activities such as praying, meditating, reading, or listening to relaxing music to be the perfect sleep inducer. 3. Keep yourself on a schedule. It’s always a good idea to have your life on a general schedule. It works well for babies, toddlers, and for you too! Schedules allow you to set up natural rhythms in your body and mind. ● Sleeping for different lengths of time can confuse your body. If you have trouble sleeping one night, get up at the normal time and remain on your normal schedule the next day.
5. Exercise during the day. Keeping yourself on a regular exercise routine will actually help you get a quality night’s rest. Even 30 minutes of light exercise can benefit you in many ways. ● Avoid exercising right before you go to bed, because exercise energizes you. 6. Avoid naps. Naps can be tempting, especially during a lull in the afternoon. However, some people tend to have trouble with their nighttime sleep if they nap during the day. If you feel that you must take a nap, try to make it only 15 to 30 minutes. That should be enough time to give you a little rest before continuing with your day. 7. Ensure you’re comfortable. Your bed might even be interfering with your sleep. Are you having issues with the quality of your mattress or the type of blankets and pillows you use? If they feel uncomfortable in any way, try changing to a different style. ● What about the positions that you use for sleep? Do you have plenty of room to stretch out and get comfortable? 8. Check the temperature. Determine the temperature you enjoy sleeping at during the night. It’s usually a few degrees cooler than you’ll keep the house during the day. You may want to experiment with adjusting the temperature. ● Also pay attention to the humidity to keep you from feeling stuffy. During the winter, the heater can dry out the air and a humidifier in your bedroom can help you breathe easier.
4. Keep an eye on your diet. Eating a balanced diet gives you a
A good night’s sleep is critical to your health and enables you to
better chance for a good night’s sleep. It’s especially important
live an active, fulfilling life. Just keep searching for a strategy
to pay attention to the things you eat and drink in the few hours
that works for you. If you continue to have trouble sleep-
before your bedtime.
ing after trying these tips, keep in mind that you can al-
●It’s best to avoid anything containing sugar, caffeine, alcohol, high fructose corn syrup, or red dyes shortly before you sleep. ·Try drinking chamomile tea before bed. Chamomile is a calming herb.
ways talk with a physician about your insomnia.
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THEOPHANI STYLE
Au Natural Beauty Expert…...Tifini Lewis It is a round table, square table, and perhaps a triangular table discussion amongst women of African Descent that seems to be going on everywhere. The decision to stop chemically straightening or “Going Natural” is a popular movement in beauty. Women are forgoing their six-week touch ups and allowing their natural curls to grow out to optimal health. I have to say as a stylist; a lot of my clients are requesting natural styles, which consists of Braids, Twists, Locs, and even Afros. Many are experimenting with their natural textures, finding that the style possibilities are endless. In 2013, rarely do I even hear the notions of self-loathing or antiAfrocentricity as to why one chemically straightens or commercially lengthens. Neither do I see an anti-Eurocentric movement awakening from the 1960’s. What I do see and hear however, are the deepest desires for our natural hair to be healthy and undamaged, to function and flow how it was genetically intended. With years of processing, pulling and tugging, women lament from the damage of tight weaves, weak hair and serious scalp issues that come along with some popular chemical services. There are different ways to make the transition from chemically relaxed to natural. Some women opt to keep their hair braided under hair extensions. As the hair grows out, the chemically treated hair is cut off a little at a time until the natural hair reaches a length the women is women who favor longer hairstyles go this route; it’s hard for them to see themselves with short hair. The easiest way to become natural immediately however, is to go for the big chop (like I did). Anything that is processed is cut off right there, and the woman is left with what ever has grown out from their last straightening service. continue pg.26
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comfortable enough to wear out. A lot of
THEOPHANI STYLE The Black Latina Movement will strive in the advancement of the Black Latina voice. Whether sharing our experiences through music, theater, and/or film we will continue to use these forums as a vehicle to showcase our talents. We will dedicate the Movement to exhibiting the beauty and harmony of both African and Latino cultures and our ability to stand firmly united regardless of our geographical locations. We will push to not only have our experiences heard but to also show the multitude of faces and realms that Black Latinas possess. The Black Latina Movement will also focus on the Black Latino community as a whole by incorporating our Latino brothers in many of our ventures and endeavors.
A native of Harlem, USA, Crystal Shaniece Roman began as a child so intrigued by the arts that she spent her free time acting in plays, participating in talent shows, and performing with her clarinet in bands. As a teenager she expanded her artistic talents by attending the High School of Fashion Industries where she received a diploma in Jewelry Design. At age 17 she continued to explore her love of the arts and enrolled in the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. In 2005 she graduated from the College of Staten Island Crystal Shaniece Roman where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Management with a minor in Sociology. Following her collegiate years Crystal jumped into acting head first. She landed the lead role in an award winning film at the New York International Film Festival and performed in a finalist piece at the Strawberry One-Act Festival. She also performed in many well known NYC venues and theaters such as the Producer’s Club, the Roy Arias Theater, and the Manhattan Repertory Theater. She joined Latino Flavored Productions for their national and regional tours of the hit play, Yo Soy Latina, in a starring role for both their off-Broadway and college versions. In June 2008, Crystal performed in the company’s first Ultimate Latina Theater Festival at Manhattan’s Bank Street Theater. Later that year she played a supporting role in film Tangle Eye Blues with Moonshine Films and became the first spokesperson for Mono Machines. In 2008 Crystal took a huge leap of faith and formed The Black Latina Movement LLC. Crystal began performing her first written theatrical piece, Black Latina, a one women show about the lives of dark-skinned Latinas and African American Latinas. Black Latina debuted at The One Festival in NYC April 2009 at the Clemente Soto Velez Theater. She also produced and directed Memoirs of a Black Latina which premiered in the Texas Black Film Festival, the International Women’s film Festival in California, and screened at the 4th Annual African American Conference in Harlem, NYC. In 2010 she wrote, produced, and directed her first OffBroadway production entitled The Colors of Love which featured an all Black Latino/African American cast. During the inaugural year of the Black Latina Movement Crystal also became the co-creator, writer, producer, and director of the hit sketch comedy show Ay Que Funny, a project under the umbrella of her other company, Shaniece Entertainment. Under Shaniece Entertainment Crystal produced Angela’s Glory (film), developed DNA (a web-series), and Of Mothers and Men (theatrical play). blacklatinamovement.com
Au Natural Beauty Expert Tifini Lewis One is left with their genetic texture, whether it is curly, coiled, wavy, kinky, or a combination of the above. Not to say that natural means less maintenance,
quite the contrary. Coiled hair has a tendency to lack the natural oils that straight hair has, so great care has to be taken to keep a balance of moisture. Conditioning treatments are essential for all hair textures, natural hair is not exempt. Seeing different examples before us like Viola Davis, Esperanza Spalding Yaya DaCosta, Solange, and Rose Cordero give us ideas and inspiration when we begin to picture ourselves in our natural glory. Really, one is not better than the other, straight, and not so straight. Both are preferences of a particular individual. You can indeed have healthy hair when chemically straightened at the hands of a licensed professional who takes proper precautions and care during the process. Many women however, have over and under processed their hair, leaving it with breakage and damage that seems irreparable. This is perhaps the time to consider starting over and going for the great transition of natural hair restoration. It is not saying no to style, it is saying yes to health and strength of ones natural texture, and maintaining the original glory intended for beautiful women.
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Montage of a Summer Day (title) Melisha Anderson-Ruiz
P Soft orange light spilled Over green hills rolling Like running water Shadows retreat Hiding under velvety moss Last night is obsolete The moon forgotten Sweet dreams illuminated And roses smell Well, like roses smell Aimless breezes scurry Slapping skinny trees Avoiding human contact Remaining pristine Mosquitoes kiss lakes Or their reflections Tidal splashes disturb Spartina patens and Sea cucumbers, red and green bend Amphibians croak Throughout the sky’s monologue Of passing white clouds Tunneling through moraine Passengers of traveling geese Uttering only the direction of change The hours move slowly The sun quicker Throwing temper tantrums Rays violently beating Against the concrete On the back and neck Of some stranger Sweating or crying Dying of thirst Wishing for shade That remains elusive Throughout the day Or at ease in Some summer home Full of visitors Fleeing from winter With funny northern Or foreign accents Hoping to create Memorable memories for Care-free children
oetry Corner Losing themselves in Crystal blue wet dreams And frozen sugary treats Melting on their tongues Sprinkling sidewalks And attracting ants Or stray dogs Pissing hot urine On unsuspecting fire hydrants And nearby lawns With yellow patches Yellow flowers and Three-leafed clovers or weeds Growing in dry Hardened dirt or Springing up randomly Between purposely placed stones That around noon Become soaked by a Merry-go-round of water Quickly evaporating in a cloud of smoke Then they eat stakes Hot dogs, BBQ chicken Grilled vegetables Outside a screen house Caddy cornered to a Porch posted by citronella candles And adults sipping glasses Of red and white wines Stumbling down memory lane Or dancing to old school Music with a Motown feel Of a summer night Settling slowly over The dimming horizon An indigo welcome mat For celestial bodies Occasionally disturbed by Thunderous applause, laughter And bright lights That quickly disappear Into the humid air Like night’s transition into a dream
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Past Clients: Shawn Andrews - Former Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Guard Stacy Andrews - Former Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Lineman Correll Buckhalter - Former Philadelphia Eagles Running Back Amon Gordon - Former Philadelphia Eagles Defensive End Vonta Leach, Former Houston Texans Full Back Mike “Scooter” McGruder – Retired NFL Player Lawyer Milloy - Former New England Patriots Safety Paul Spicer - Former Jacksonville Jaguars Defensive End
Specialized Services For NFL Players The PNP Agency is a firm that specializes in behavioral prevention advisement, public relations, marketing and man-
The PNP Agency players. In 1990, Parisnicole started her career in television produc-
agement administration for NFL players. We oversee and
tion and radio broadcasting. Thereafter, became an entertain-
manage the careers of NFL Players by providing Behavioral
ment manager and assisted the careers of independent un-
Prevention Advisement and PR/MGT Administration. Height-
signed artists from Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York.
en and leverage entrepreneurial attitude and expertise in cli-
Her responsibilities include artist development, venue pro-
ent relationships to determine a vision, set priorities, and pro-
duction, tour management and marketing. In 2002, she devel-
vide public relation needs. Research and develop materials to
oped an interest in sports public relations, marketing and
enhance the community perception and awareness for key
communications.
clients. Interact with media, community members and clients
After completing several public relations and marketing
to maximize exposure and develop the client’s brand. Ensure
internships, and freelance opportunities Parisnicole devel-
creative thinking and high-quality implementation in the are-
oped a profound interest for the sports business. She served
as of public relations, marketing and communications. Pre-
as a volunteer ambassador for the National Football League
pare, write and distribute press releases utilizing social net-
Super Bowl Host Committee. (NFLSBHC) for 10 years. While
works for media focus. Provide travel accommodations,
volunteering for the NFLSBHC she became known as a top-
household management, crisis communications and media
tier sports public relations and management administration
training
professional in assisting, advocating and representing over
A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native, Parisnicole Payton has made her presence well- known in the sports and entertain-
20+ NFL. She supports current and retired NFL players in planning
ment industry. She is the President and CEO of a small public
and implementing positive branding strategies and crisis-
relations firm, The PNP Agency that specializes in behavioral
management preparation, in addition to executing public re-
prevention advisement, social media presence, marketing,
lations and social media marketing plans. continue pg. 30
public relations and management administration for NFL
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“The advice I would give woman business owners whether personal/professional is to follow your passion. Do what you want to do and make money doing it” Parisnicole Payton Parisnicole happily serves as a publicist and personal assistant
been featured in many Internet and magazine publications. She
for NFL players seeking business etiquette, crisis management,
is a mentor and serves as a keynote speaker for numerous col-
behavior management and leadership services. She coaches and
leges, conferences, industry-related panel discussions and youth
facilitates training and development sessions in preparation for
organizations. She is an expert in leading by example. Her dy-
press conferences and teaches networking techniques. In 2005,
namic leadership, advisement, time management, stellar custom-
Parisnicole made recognition when she pitched and secured a
er service and networkng skills enable her to give referrals, re-
national publication, “FATHERHOOD IN THE NFL” with Diane
sources and recommendations of the Who, What, When, Where
Sears, Managing Editor of Philadelphia BSI International, Inc. She
and Why in the field of sports and entertainment.
orchestrated a discussion article forum with Mr. Samuel McNabb,
Parisnicole is a high achievable public relations professional
President of National Football Player Father’s Association and
that represents her clients from the heart. She continues to be a
father of Donovan McNabb Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and
powerful force in utilizing sound business acumen, unsurpassed
Paul Spicer, former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end.
industry knowledge, street-smarts, and direct personal contacts
Parisnicole has earned a Master in Education: Educational Management, Master of Business Administration: Marketing and
in maintaining her stature as an elite well-known sports & entertainment professional.
Bachelor of Business Administration: Management from Strayer University. In addition, a graduate of Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts majored in Business. Furthermore, she has attained Certificates in Completion in Athlete Management from Sports Management Worldwide and in Artist Relations, Studio Production, Concert Promotion and Event Production from the Philadelphia Dell East Music Business Institute. For years, Parisnicole has earned a solid reputation as knowledgeable and hard-working. In other accomplishments, she have
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