April2014cprecioustones

EXCULSIVE

THE STATE OF THE BLACK PARENT

A P R I L

2 0 1 4

The joyful news that He is risen does not change the contemporary world. Still before us lie work, discipline, sacrifice. But the fact of Easter gives us the spiritual power to do the work, accept the discipline, and make the sacrifice. sacrifice

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Spring Fashion Colors

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Colours that are on trend for Spring: Amalfi Blue, a fresh Mediterranean blue and ocean blues are hot this season.

Black and White combinations, especially I stripes or bold colour blocking.

beautiful rich coral and forms part of the fragrant pinks that are trending and Pietra Grey which fits in the warm neutrals trend.

Rosa pink, which is a

Ready To Wear Collections Ladylike and preppy florals, Beaded and bedazzeled jewels add a touch of glam., Fringe detailing gives spring separates a cozy feel. Graphic Black and white prints and

patterns pack a serious statement., White Wide Leg pants feel fresh roomy, Sheer peek-aboo detailing is a mix of sweet meets sporty, Crop Tops Stick to that gym routine—bare

midriffs are here to stay.

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CONTENTS April 2014 | My Luvs

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| Can We Talk

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| Melanie Brown Virginity Alive 2014

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| Empowering Our Youth

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| Sweet Taz Alexander Cannon Shelley

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| Authors Release Dan Dilbert L. A. Johnson Jr.

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| 10 Things You Should Know

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| State Of The Black Parent

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F E AT U RE D DE S I G N E R S

| Derricka Cole

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| William Stokes

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| Annie Long

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| Tessa

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| Pamela Dotson

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FEATURED HAIR-STYLIST | Marquita Vanoy

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| Tiffany Watkins

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COVER STORY | Miss Black Illinois 2014

| Still Looking For Trouble

PRECIOUSTONES

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APRIL

2014

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Photography by Juan Anthony

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Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

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CAN WE TALK

What are the advantages and disadvantages of dating a woman that has no kids??

Mz Que Smith Idk!! I was at an advantage with my bf!!! A girl with no kids!!!!

He loved that!!!

my case) u can be #1 in her life. She doesnt hav kids or excuses to put before u. Also u dont hav to gift the kids while gifting her $$$

MzQue Smith 3 yrs later knocked UP!! Yeaa we are happy and Blessed

Disadvantage: It might not be easy for her to deal with ur kids or kids mother/mothers. If she has no kids, she might not want to deal with others kids...

Tanisha Lewis Ohh ohh i can answer this one lol, Being a woman with no kids.. Advantage: second to her mom (my sister in

Douglas Fort Good sleep....after good sex

FAVORITE

Kevin Crooks Douglas Fort....lmaooo...

much more responsible now.

bian

FACEBOOK

Jen Stew Oh oh ok ok! Lol

DISCUSSION

Tyrell Jones I'm married.

But I think the advantage would be not having the responsibility. Two people with no children have a lot more from freedom. With children you have a lot more things to factor in.

Norena Robinson No baby daddy

Brandi Anderson I think disadvantage would be if u wanted kids by her you couldnt see how she was as a mother

Julie Bensing For me personally, I didn't grow up until I had kids. I am

LaNay Stacy No disadvantage to me lol. It's a very slim chance of meeting a chick with no kids these days Jen Stew M Stace...i dont!

LaNay Stacy Lol but ur my friend and u not a les-

Kimberly L Carter Pops agreed that a woman with no kids love different or replace a pet for a kid, which gets on your nerves....js lbvs

KEVIN CROOKS MODERATOR Jen Stew Kimberly L Carter...lol lol!

Kimberly L Carter Some women a think they better then a woman wit kids, not hardly, carryon lil off subject lbvs Kevin A. Phipps If the kids are out of diapers, you get the joy of father hood, without ever having to change a deeeescusting poopy

diaper.

Curtis Chiquita Jones ? learning new views out of the minds of the young, ? always wondering what if

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Andrea Isadore

We all feel the need to be accepted, just make sure you're seeking approval from those that are going to enrich and bring purpose to your existence. Being broke is not the same as being broken, losing something is not the same as being lost and going up against obstacles doesn't mean you’re off course. We should always stay focused, never letting another's misery keep you company

as well as praying for the ones that "TRIED IT" Your Broken Life can be become a Blessed Life if you allow God to do the mending.

you’ll appreciate the rainbow more when you know you've weathered the storm. If you don’t step forward you’ll always be left behind and stuck in the same place.

PERSERVERANCE is key, one has to want more to have more.

Simply put cherish every moment of your life before you know it, it will be a Memory.

It doesn’t matter how strong we think we are, there's something’s we must place in His hands.

Make sure you’re not doing all the Right things for all the Wrong reasons. Lead don't fol-

low, Bend don't break, swim not sink. Take your Rejection and turn it into Perfection. If you restrict yourself from going after what you want, you will never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.

Never ask God to take you out of a bad situation, ask him to hold your hand through it,

HAPPY SPRING MY LUVS

WOMAN OF THE MONTH

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any women today are opting to work as job-making entrepreneurs. Regardless of the pathways of life women are beginning anew revolution much different from the one in the 70’s where they left the home to go to work. They are changing the work force and creating small business utilizing their gifts and talents

Our featured woman of the month is doing just that; she is aligned with personal values, sharp business acumen, and a dynamic leader.

is a Spoken Word Artist and Actress from the South Side of Chicago Illinois. She's been performing since she could talk in plays at church and school, reciting speeches and others' poetry. She started writing poetry and raps during high school. During her college years her first original piece was performed at the Rainbow PUSH Headquarters for a MLK Celebration.

Melanie has performed in two of Donald Lawrence's Urban Inspiration showcases, Tye Tribett's concert, 21:03's concert, Chris Searcy's concert, J Ivy's concert, 106.3FM, recorded at WKKC 89.3/working with Director of Operations Marv Dyson, Al Greer and Dennis Snipes, The New Regal Theater, The Harold Washington Cultural Center, various churches, banquets, businesses, schools, universities, sororities, and cafes, including Roosevelt University. Melanie has videographer experience as well. Her experiences with video were recording church service, groups and interned at Rainbow PUSH Headquarters for Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s Upfront Show/Morning Forum as a videographer.

To her accreditation she was cast in a movie with Robin Givens, Tommie Ford and others, as well as being an co-host of The Real Talk with Travele Judon show on WCIU U-TOO. Amazedly this beautiful and talented woman is an abstinence motivational speaker who appeared as a guest on the Steve Harvey Show; where she talked about being a virgin at the age of 28. She informs women and men (young and old) how it is ok to be virgin now even at 30.

Melanie worked for Chicago Public Schools for 5 years. She has been a Special Education Assistant, Social Studies/Reading teacher, Science teacher and a poet instructor. Melanie is currently a Director of Communication at the Healthcare Consortium of Illinois, a producer for two shows at WVON 1690AM, shadows at ABC 7 News, and a floor director at Rainbow PUSH for their broadcast.

Melanie can be reached or booked at mel_brn@yahoo.com, or 773-220-6715.

PSM: How did you get interested in designing?

I became interested in designing through frustration. I wasn't able to find the clothes that I wanted for my children that made them look like children. In an effort to stay trendy I think clothing lines for kids have tried to make clothes more relatable to adult fashion. I wanted my kids to look like kids!

PSM: Any inspirations from other designers to help guide your way?

Although I like big name designers, like Suzette Opara of 828 collection and Barbara Bates clothing line that are local to the Chicago area I'm more inspired by an artist who I can actually contact./ What I mean by that is they bring an air of familiarity to their brand which allows me to feel comfortable. I think XOX is just that. A brand that allows every little girl to feel like a little girl. Comfortable.

PSM: How would you describe your current collection?

I would say that my collection speaks to the heart of every child. Each piece is specially crafted to bring the essence of that child to the for front.

From the colors, to the lace, to the fit of each piece my collection combines the fun, style and child like whimsy to keep all little ones in age appropriate fashion.

PSM: Any advice for other aspiring designers?

Every designer needs to have a great support system to encourage them. There will be some days when you want to give up. But you really have to believe in yourself and keep going.

PSM: What's the one thing in your life you can't live without?

PSM: What are your ultimate goals? Would you want your own boutique?

For me that has been MY HUSBAND! He is my everything. My best friend, my support system, my My ultimate goal is to make XOX/Dcole collection love. Without him there is no XOX./Dcole Colleca household name. In a world where our kids have tion. to grow up so quickly, I want my designs to inspire PSM: Your favorite Chicago shopping Scene? mothers to keep their children as children while they can. They have the rest of lives to be adults so Whenever I'm out and about I love shopping for bargain, I am definitely a frugalista! enjoy this moment in XOX.

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By LaDonna Marie

power In our youth and

with your Positive words

Mariah Scott, Miss Black Illinois USA 2014 is a third year student at DePaul University majoring in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Spanish. As Miss Black Illinois USA 2014 she will continue advocating for her platform: “Promoting the Arts within School Curriculums while Providing Equal Educational Opportunities for all."

Mariah believes this is a chance for her to not only serve as a role model for her peers; it is also an essential stepping stone to achieving her goals of mentoring youth and pushing for equal educational opportunities for all people.

A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Miss Scott grew up in a low-income family. Since she was younger, she strived for reaching her full potential while uplifting her peers and future generations. She knew education was the key to unveiling the many successes she planned to achieve. But she also knew, and could never deny, her passion for empowering her community and communities surrounding her. Her passion has allowed her to start her own organization Speaking Out as Unified Leaders (SOUL), housed under

DePaul University, which teaches creative writing and public speaking to marginalized youth 6th through 8th grade. Her organization has partnered with schools in the inner city of Chicago helping at risk youth build on skills that will help in their educational career and later on in their life. In addition to building these skill sets, the program has fostered a constructive environment where youth can speak freely while engaging in activities created to afford them a positive outlet and live up to their full potential. SOUL incorporates a community servicelearning component where 8th grade students a part of the program, will have the opportunity to design and implement their own community service projects. She plans on establishing SOUL as its own non-profit 501(C3) organization in the upcoming years. Miss Scott believes every youth has the opportunity to dream and transform their dreams into a reality.

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PSM: How did you get interested in designing?

My father was born 1924 so if you didn’t have a suit coat you weren’t ready for the day. So although I’m just 26 my fashion interest is that of the most fashionable time in history, “The Golden Age”

PSM: Any inspirations from other designers to help guide your way?

Yes. A modern inspiration would have to be Tom Ford but not the Tom Ford after Jay Z... I hate what urban popularity does to people I look up to.

PSM: How would you describe your current collection?

Modernity with a timeless reference.

PSM: What are your ultimate goals? Would you want your own boutique?

Our ultimate goal is to make the Brand a lifestyle brand.

PSM: Any advice for other aspiring designers?

Stay Focus. It’s easier to get distracted by trends.

PSM: What's the one thing in your life you can't live without?

Creative freedom

PSM: Your favorite Chicago shopping Scene?

Black Friday. It shows that people still love fashion but just wish it was more affordable. I wish black Friday was everyday. The Fashion world deserve that level of appreciation.

ALEXANDRIA

CANNON SHELLEY

My name is Alexandria I grew up in a small town in Kansas and come from a large family with lots of love to give. My parents both encouraged me from a young age to pursue my dreams and gave me the motivation to take my creativity and discover useful ideals. I learned to never give up, to always look forward, and compare myself with only myself. There are always people ahead of you so I focus on my goals even if its at a slow pace.

I love to do all things creative! In 2013 II started to advertise my products amongst military spouses and all social media networks. I’m now known as the girls that can do everything, which is very flattering because I adore discovering my creative gene! Baking cup cakes and cakes are also a passion of mine.

The other talent God has graced

me with is painting beautiful pieces of art work , as a teenager I loved to personalize my clothes with different sayings and pictures.

these bags reflect the little girl they are customized for. When you’re tuned into your spirit, you are naturally drawn to do whatever feels best. Since adults also love I have two adorable little girls these bags my goal is to make who love all things girly, lady like them available for everyone that and graceful. They are the want to share this beautiful and inspiration behind the personalized functional item with their children, canvas bags shown in the photos; loved ones and friends.

It's so rewarding knowing that

The bags are precisely 9x14x2.5inches. Made of high quality canvas bags, hand painted and accessorized.

From little girls that need a ballet bag to teens that need a tote for every need under the sun, and adults who want to explore their girly side. These bags are durable and unique at an affordable price.

For detailed information about the bags you can Contact Alexandria Cannon-Shelley Facebook: Sweet TAZ Cupcakes Email: SweetTAZCupcakes@gmail.com

Does God still speak through dreams!

In Devine Dreams His voice is always present!

PSM: How did you become interested in being a fashion designer?

I always had a flare for fashion I've always known that I wanted to work behind the scenes as a fashion designer, during my college years the vision was given to the assistant pastor of the church I attended, Mattie P. Dawson to

start our own designer and modeling agency called Maranatha Design Corporation, so along with five other designers we began our journey as models and designers. While my modeling agency sent me out on castings, I would always wear something I created to get a reaction.

PSM: Are there any designers that inspired you?

There are a few entrepreneur designers who inspire me, Donna Karan's Anne Klein II look, Calvin Klein, John Paul

Gaultier, Coco Chanel and Gianni Versace to name a few.

PSM: How would you describe your current collection?

I established the brand to kind of express my personal characteristics.

I want to reach my clients directly and convey to them the mixture of femininity, sexiness and coolness carried by my brand.

PSM: What is your ultimate goals as a designer?

I’m planning to open a pop-up store soon. It is a way to build up a direct relationships with my customers, and I want to tell them the story of my brand through the interiors, the visual displays and the customer service that they could only get from a total store experience.

PSM: What is the one thing In life you can't live without?

PSM: What advice would you give aspiring designers

I was born and raised in Chicago so there are plenty of spots I love.

Ambition, experience and a vision is necessary. You can use fashion to express yourself. You don't have to go to college to become a designer just remain trendy and pull deep from within. I've found praying for direction is a great inspiration tool to utilize.

You can follow me on facebook@Annie Long to find out more information about our designs and events.

My faith in God is the most essential thing in my life.

PSM: What is the name of your favorite spot in Chicago?

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Finesse Hair Cafe 11026 S HALSTED, Chicago, Illinois 60643 Book An Appointment ~ Marquita Call 773-354-0270

PSM: How did you become interested in being a Hair Stylist?

I became interested in doing hair in high school, when I couldn't afford to always go to the beauty shop, so I learned the DIY way. It was during those years I discovered my artistic creations and passion to become a stylists.in the Hairstyling is super cool, it is about fashion, lifestyle, music, movies, etc. It changes peoples lives.

PSM: Are there any stylist that inspired you?

Ms. Deanna Sutton who was my hairstylist inspired me as well as the young lady name Angela who starred on WE-TV Show

LA Hair with celebrity hairstylist, beauty expert, and entrepreneur Kim Kimble.

PSM: What is your ultimate goals as a stylist?

My ultimate goal as a Stylist is to own an extraordinary studio salon providing exceptional and personalized service. I listen to my clients and find out what vision they have for their hair and provide them professional recommendations that work best for them.

PSM: What advice would you give aspiring Hair Stylist?

Advice I would give aspiring hairstylist is to stay true to yourself and your clients. If

this is your gift be fabulous go above and beyond your clients’ expectations and always invest in hair care education & advanced styling seminars.

Knowledge and passion are the keys to success in this career.

PSM: What is the one thing In life you can't live without?

The one thing I can't live without is my flat irons.

What is the name of your favorite Salon in Chicago?

My favorite Chicago salon scene is Freedom Salon!

Congratulations Marquita on following your inspiration!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Dan Dilbert Email: dan@dandilbert.com Phone: 703-822-1657

put on the inside of you. Your writing rocks. ~Geralyn A. Taylor Dan Dilbert the author born and raised in Savannah GA. Currently living in the Northern Virginia area, after serving twenty years in the United States Navy. Dan enjoys reading and studying historical events to include the Bible and watching shows like Criminal Minds and Person of Interest and special channels like History, Military, Discovery, and Investigate discovery channel. He graduated from Windsor Forest High School, class of ’83, BA from the University of Connecticut; and MA degree from Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. While on active duty from 1984 – 2004, he traveled up and down the east and west coast of the USA, and visited many countries that border the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Ocean to include countries within the Mediterranean. Currently the author is employed as an Instructional Systems Specialist in the Northern Virginia area and is using his life experience to create impressive reading material for public consumption, and Ethos is just the first of many novels to come.

The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. Thomas Paine. Joseph and Phillip face many challenges and controversies in this dynamic novel, the conflicts are hard, but the triumph is glorious. Woodbridge, Virginia, July 2013– Joseph Benjamin Dillward is a young, black male in Maza City, North Carolina, with remarkable knowledge, skills and strength in areas that individuals cannot comprehend. He is mystified about his purpose in life but has a strong desire to earn his doctoral degree. Phillip Goldwater, a white man, once CEO of Breachwind, the world’s largest, most powerful corporation has discovered that Joseph is a threat to his family and can become the new CEO of Breachwind as well as the most powerful man in For more information about ETHOS, head over to the world. However, Phillip is determine to stop Joseph www.dandilbert.com ISBN / EAN13: 1481957996 / by any means necessary and preserved the future CEO’s 9781481957991 position for his descendants.

Phillip’s goal is to protect the desire, dreams and visions of his ancestors, while Joseph’s goal is to take what his ancestors has paid for and what is rightfully his. As the story ends, Joseph muses: No, this not the end. This is just the beginning. While reading this novel the question each person must answer is ow far you are willing to go!

I think that this book not only holds your attention, but is extremely informative. I have learned great history and life lessons. I enjoyed the book immensely. I could not put Ethos down, on Sunday I got home from church at about 2 pm I began reading and at 12 am I had completed the entire book. Honestly, I would not call myself an avid reader so for this book to hold my attention it had to be exceptional. Much congratulations to Mr. Dilbert, continue to produce what the Lord has

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For Immediate Release Contact: Liberty Street – Public Relations www.mambabooks.com www.mambabooks@gmail.com Mamba Books & Publishing Presents “ Yolanda The Enchantress”

by L. A. Johnson Jr.

Surry VA, March 17, 2007 – Mamba Books & Publishing is proud to present Yolanda The Enchantress by L. A. Johnson Jr. of Dendron, Virginia. Yolanda The Enchantress is a dramatic, hair-raising adventure, alive with extraordinary people only L. A. Johnson Jr. can weave into the strange and exotic world of Africa.

Yolanda The Enchantress. Is about the settling of the African wilderness in its simplest form; it's a love story, one man trying to decide between two women, a willful young girl who was Zulu and a beautiful widow, settling the Congo with her brothers.

Dominique de Salvo is a soldier in the Portuguese army. He captured a young African woman, and learns that she is half Spanish. Yolanda had lived with her Zulu relative all her life. Dominique is determines to take her to her Spanish relatives - if he can find them. However, Dominique also has another problem.

A twist of fate carried Yolanda to a cave on the Zambezi River. She found herself helpless, at the mercy of the most arrogant man she ever met. Nothing but complete submission would satisfy him, and he knew the most unpleasant ways to make her surrender. As time passed, Yolanda found herself falling in love with him, but he wanted nothing to do with her.

Yolanda is a dramatic, hair-raising adventure with extraordinary people.

Filled with striking bits of local color, this tingling escape story depicts the turmoil and tension of colonial Africa.

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PSM: How did you get interested in designing?

My parents purchased me a jewelry designer kit when I was in 5th grade and the rest is history. I started making jewelry for my family and my moms co workers making $2-$10 off of each customer. When I was in 7th & 8th grade I had the keychain string business where I would buy spools of string and sell made key chains to people and/or string to my classmates for them to make them. I take my passion for something and turn it into a form of revenue.

PSM: Any inspirations from other designers to help guide your way?

PSM: What are your ultimate goals? Would you want your own boutique.

I currently own a boutique located in Chicago but my ultimate goals are to have my products in every store around the world.

PSM: Any advice for other aspiring designers?

The advice I give to everyone is to follow your dreams and to never give up. Dreams are hard work!!!! But in order to live it the way we view it in our vision we have to put in hard work.

PSM: What the one thing in your life you can't live without?

Yes, for my current creations I shop around and I like to see what's selling and what's not. I call GOD some of my newer designs old but new. I take old concepts and innovate them and make them new. PSM: Your favorite Chicago shopping Scene?

PSM: How would you describe your current collection?

My new collection can be described as coming from the heart. I'm working on shoe design's, Jewelry designs and bag designs.

I don't really have a favorite shopping scene.

Everyone pretty much carry the same thing. I'm into uniqueness and it's very little of it in Chicago.

Thank you Tessa and we wish you continued success!

You're welcome to share your families new births with us.

We want them to receive their Star Award on day one.

“Are

You ‘There’ Yet”?

By Linda Gaines We all aspire to get to a place called ‘There’ in our lives.

How close are you to your ‘There’?

What are you doing to reach your ‘There’?

Regardless of what your place called ‘There’ may be; continue to network, research, go back to school, save money, etc. to get to that place.

Know that there will be obstacles, bumps in the road, and challenges. Just keep moving.

Never give up on your dreams, goals, and aspirations. They will come to fruition IF………………you don’t quit!!!!!!!!!

I'm, sitting here watching them cry and wondering why do you cry now.

You never did before so why now ? Oh I see you finally realize after all these years, spending time with me makes you happy, yep I've always been here and you were there, Well don't cry now it's not worth it, those tears don't mean anything to me, nope nothing they are just water to me that I can wash my feet with. No I am not a mean person It's just those tears were once needed once shared, but you left me out there when I needed a shoulder to cry no one cared, I needed a safe home I didn't get it all I got was loneliness and darkness. Where were you when I needed you most. I remember, you were nowhere to be found you were a ghost.

So why cry now my tears of sorrow are gone, gone, they are toast.

What I asked God for has already been given to me; by strangers who became my parents Their entire family took me in and made me feel welcomed and lovely.

Now you're crying cause your baby has grown And you're the one feeling alone.

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PSM: How did you become interested in being a Hair Stylist?

Growing up, I played with my Baby dolls hair as well as my sister hair.

PSM: Are there any stylist that inspired you?

My inspirations are Little Willie (Stylist from Detroit Michigan), Andre Walker (Oprah Winfrey Stylist) and Tomeka James( Stylist from Maplewood NJ.) I would describe my current hairstyles as a Melting Pot of old school and new school mixed with a variety of shapes and colors.

PSM: What is your ultimate goals as a stylist?

I'm a Stylist and a Cosmetology Educator and my goal is to own a Cosmetology school affordable for everybody.

PSM: What advice would you give aspiring Hair Stylist?

Learning never ends, stay current with the latest trends and techniques. Be professional at all times.

PSM: What is the one thing In life you can't live without?

I can't live without my God. What is the name of your favorite Salon in Chicago?

My favorite scene is downtown Chicago on Michigan avenue because of the different visuals, colors and lights.

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Volunteer keep our magazine and website running and you can join our team too!

Precioustones Team is currently looking for volunteers in different departments that make up our magazine.

We are looking for individuals who have spare time and want to get involved on a voluntary basis or who want to contribute occasionally for experience.

Volunteers can work at their own schedule from anywhere in the world.

Elections for the United States Senate will be held on November 4, 2014, with 33 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate being contested in regular elections whose winners will serve six-year terms from January 3, 2015 to January 3, 2021. Additionally, special elections may be held to fill vacancies that occur during the 113th United States Congress.

The elections to the U.S. House of Representatives, elections for governors in states and territories, and many state and local elections will also be held on this date. These elections mark 100 years of direct elections of U.S. Senators.

The 2014 United States House of Representatives elections will be held on November 4, 2014. Elections will be held for all 435 seats, representing the 50 U.S. states. Elections will also be held for the non-voting delegates from the District of Columbia and four of the five U.S. territories.

The winners of these elections will serve in the 114th United States Congress, with seats apportioned among the states based on the 2010 United States Census.

The United States gubernatorial elections of 2014 will be held on November 4, 2014 in thirty-six states and three territories concurrent with other elections during the United States General election of 2014.

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How did you get interested in designing? I have been interested in designing since I was a little girl.

When my mother didn’t have money to buy new clothes she use to go to the thrift shop buy clothing and I use to transform each piece of clothing with a needle and thread.

PSM: Any inspirations from other designers to help guide your way?

There are so many but Donna Karan is my favorite, my inspiration comes from creating out of things people would usually throw away with.

PSM: How would you describe your current collection? I make things out of

anything, old clothes, bags, or simply ideas, many of my items are items I searched high and low for, things that wouldn’t necessarily be of any interest for anyone.

PSM: What are your ultimate goals?

Would you want your own boutique, I have an online boutique, my goals are to have a physical location where women can come and be inspired to look beautiful on purpose. I am also working on a proposal for a preteen purpose day camp for inspiring young women to be beautiful on purpose; self esteem building, career choices, confidence and elegance even etiquette. I also have a goal of leaving a paper trail for anyone, who would

like to start the process of owning his or her own business.

PSM: Any advice for other aspiring designers?

My advice is to stay positive, always be encouraging to yourself and others, to block any discouragement.

Respect your craft for what it is that means don’t short change or secondguess yourself.

Don’t stop, do something everyday to reach a goal. In order to make it to a certain place one foot will have to follow the other to make it to that place.

10 Things Young People Should Know About Life 1. Rage Hard But Never Forget Your Responsibilities It’s great to party hard and have a great time when you’re young. However, even party animals have responsibilities. Your day-time activities should consist of things that fulfill your day to day responsibilities. Whether you have a job, a business, or a degree to work towards, never let your partying take over your priorities.

It’s not the most popular kid in high school that goes the farthest in life, but rather the kid who knew their responsibilities and priorities. Popularity and partying only lasts a few years, but a dedication to your career lasts forever.

2. Credit Cards Kill The first day I stepped foot on a college campus was for my Freshman orientation. After we finished a few lame activities and a tour of the campus, my university tried hard to convince everyone to get a credit card. They tried so hard that my ID card also worked as a credit card.

Young people often forget how credit cards work and ruin their credit for years to come. Be very careful with credit cards. You must have great self-control and you must understand that the money you spend on a credit card has to be paid back eventually.

3. Health > Wealth As young people, we should be concerned about physical exercise of course, and at the same time, we need to be conscious of the things we are eating. Health is truly extremely crucial to your long-term success and do not let the idea of chasing money turn you away from staying healthy.

Set aside a few hours a week where you plan to lift some weights, run, play some sports, or do something that will require physical activity. The older you will be happy you took care of yourself.

4. Education Never Stops If you want to be extremely successful throughout your life, you must understand that your college degree is not the end of your education.

BE THE NEXT FACE OF PRECIOUSTONES

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to highlight their visibility to the Alkebulan Community.

July 20, 2014 Shaunes Richardson, founder of 'State of the Black Parent', an Independent, Grassroots, & Grand Premiere, will host a conference for the 'Education, Economics & Enterprise of the Alkebulan bloodline'.

Shaunes Richardson is a Louisiana native, a concerned parent about the education, economics & enterprise of our children.

We need to heal and develop unity within the Alkebulan bloodline. Our panel is a diverse group of individuals, within Our Community that will speak from their

perspective about the selected topics.

The event will be held in New York City at the Cascade Ballroom located 1055 East 45th Street. This vital event will be celebrated with a parade for the youth and they will be dressed in their future careers, The Young Developers Showcase is for our youth to display their future businesses desires or their talent.

Our roundtable discussion will focus on 3 topics Education, Economics, & Enterprise. The parade is an opportunity for black owned businesses and community members

The roundtable discussion within the 3 topics with 2 minute limit per response from each panel member, and then a Q&A session from registrants to the panel members.

I host a show called "State of the Black Parent with Shaunes Richardson" on blog talk radio show on Monday's at 6pm EST. The Call-in number is 661 554 9123 callers are welcome.

State of the Black Parent will have updates on Pinterest ,twitter, Facebook, Google Plus. Our Official Website:www.blackpare

Shaunes Richardson" on blog talk radio show

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5. Stand On Your Own Feet

As appealing as it may seem to live off other people, it’s not that great when you get thrown out on your ass. Learn to support yourself and stand on your own feet as soon as you can. The feeling of independency is great and people will appreciate you more for that. Don’t take advantage of your family and learn the value of being independent.

6. Work On Something Bigger Than you When I was growing up, I always wanted to work for a big corporation or be a lawyer, but I quickly realized that I would be selling my soul away to another company. I wouldn’t be working for something bigger, I would just be slaving myself away to help someone else work for something bigger. Create a goal to achieve something that’s bigger than you, but accomplished by you.

For me, my bigger project is working on innovation that solves problems, simplifies lives, and changes the world.

7. Make Your Money Work For You All The Time Personally, I want to make 5 million dollars by the time I’m 25. Then, I want to make 100 million dollars by the time I’m 30 and 1 billion dollars by the time I’m 40. After being around multimillionaires and successful entrepreneurs, I quickly understood that the wealthy don’t usually make their money all from one source. They make their money work for them through careful investments, strategizing, and planning. If you plan to create a large fortune for yourself, make sure your money is always working for you at all times. Diversify your investments (don’t put all your eggs in one basket) and be patient.

8. Learn To Adapt When the world shifts, you’re either with the change or you’re left behind. Many people hold strong values and refuse to shift their business or ideals when they get left behind, but those are the same people who typically file for bankruptcy years later. It’s good to learn early on that pivoting, having an open mind, and being willing to adapt to whatever life hands you is extremely important to be successful long-term.

9. Let Love Find You You aren’t against some clock racing to find the love of your life. Love is something natural and it should come to you on its own. Don’t let society define when or how you should find love because love doesn’t work like that. You might be lucky to find love in high school or it may take you till your late 20′s to find love. The key is to stay open-minded and to put yourself out there. From there, love will take its own course on you.

10. Surround Yourself With Who You Want To Become Being young, it’s easy to get caught up with the wrong crowd. However, as you grow older and start to develop goals, it’s very important to be around people who you want to become. There’s a saying that goes: “If you can’t change your friends, change your friends.” Jeet Banerjee Author

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Grilled Wild Salmon & Vegetables Spring Strawberry Spinach Salad

INGREDIENTS 1 bunch spinach, rinsed 10 large strawberries, sliced 1/2 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup white wine vinegar

Ingredients 8 fingerling potatoes (about 8 ounces) 4 small red onions, cut into 1-inch slices (about 1 pound) 4 Vidalia spring onions, quartered (about 8 ounces) 4 cipollini onions (about 4 ounces) 2 cups sliced fennel (about 7 ounces) 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil Cooking spray

1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 1 tablespoon chopped fennel fronds 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets 2 cups pea tendrils or baby spinach 1/4 cup Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette

1 cup vegetable oil 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

In a large bowl, mix the spinach and strawberries.

In a blender, place the sugar, salt, vinegar, and oil, and blend until smooth. Stir in the poppy seeds. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat.

Sprinkle salmon with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 Prepare grill. teaspoon pepper. Place salmon on grill rack coated with cooking spray, and grill Place potatoes in a large pan of boiling 5 minutes on each side or until fish flakes water; cook 8 minutes or until tender. easily when tested with a fork or until Add onions and sliced fennel; cook 3 minutes or until onions are tender. Drain desired degree of doneness. Place 1 salmon fillet onto each of 4 plates. Toss and plunge into ice water; drain. pea tendrils with Preserved Lemon Toss vegetables with oil. Place vegetables Vinaigrette. Place about 1/2 cup pea on grill rack coated with cooking spray; tendril mixture over salmon. Add 1 1/2 grill 4 minutes on each side or until cups grilled vegetables to each serving, tender and lightly browned. Sprinkle with and serve immediately 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, fennel fronds, and parsley.

Preparation

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BAKED GARLIC TILIAPIA

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Tilapia is a great choice for a low carb diet or any healthy diet. The simple garlic and herb mixture flavors the fish perfectly, and it takes just minutes to prepare and bake.

dash salt pinch dried dillweed or parsley dash paprika 4 tilapia fillets, about 4 ounces each Preparation: In saucepan, combine butter, garlic, pepper, salt, dillweed, and paprika. Heat over low heat until butter is melted and starts

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter 2 cloves garlic, finely minced dash pepper

simmering. Remove from heat. Brush a little of the butter mixture in the bottom of a shallow baking dish (line baking dish with foil, if desired) then place tilapia fillets on the buttered area.

Brush top of each tilapia fillet with the seasoned butter mixture. Bake at 350° for 12 to 15 minutes, until tilapia flakes easily with a fork.

HEALTHY JUICES Total Health Booster A swig of this vitaminpacked (A, B, C, E) beverage fuels your whole body. It even fights aging: Lutein plus vitamins A and C up collagen production (for strong bones and younger-looking skin).

Ingredients: Apple, pears, cherries.

Calories: 192

Antioxidants in berries boast potent anti-aging benefits.

Ingredients: Blueberries, strawberries, mango

Energy Upper

Post-Workout Refueler

Natural fruit sugars give you an instant boost, and electrolyte-loaded coconut water helps keep you hydrated.

Almonds’ protein helps build and repair muscle.

Plus, the potassium (twice as much as you get in two bananas) balances your electrolytes and fluids.

Ingredients: Lychees in syrup, peaches, coconut water Calories: 105

PRECIOUSTONES

APRIL

2014

Antioxidant Supreme

Ingredients: Oranges, almonds, sweet potato, apple

Calories: 231

WE ARE SOCIAL JOIN THE CONVERSATION

'LIKE' US ON FACEBOOK FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

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The familiar bible narrative Jesus told of the Prodigal Son highlights the request of the ambitious younger brother who asked for what would befall him (Lk.15:11).

He was asking for his inheritance, but the inheritance would fall on his older brother first not him. So what the father gave him, knowing it was not his time nor was the son ready, gave him gifts, not inheritance. It was as if the father knew the younger son would waste it on riotous living, which was exactly what he did. It was life outside the father’s domain the younger son desired, a life of party, drinking, and as the older son declared prostitutes.

This would indicate the older son had some knowledge of his brother’s impetuosity and what was happening to him.

Yet with this knowledge the older brother never ventured to go after his brother, understanding the foolishness of his young heart.

went to get him. (2) The ministries, self-help and motivating techniques that are employed in pig pen situations saying, “it is not your fault, you couldn’t help it,” is erroneously deceptive.

Pig pen ministries that tell those in the pen, the slop you’re eating isn’t really slop, you’re coming out of this mess just believe it and you’ll receive it. That’s not the stench of decay you reek with, but the announcement you are up for a miracle is missing responsibility. (3) The older served of out obligation and duty, he felt the father owed him.

After his money was spent, friends were gone and found himself having to take a job feeding swine and resorting to what they ate did he come to himself. He said my father’s servants have more than this and live better than this, he concluded, I will return to my father’s house and ask if I can be but a servant, for I don’t deserve to be son or anything of my father’s wealth. With that understanding he headed back to his father’s house, but when his father saw him a long ways off ran and kissed him, hugging him. Then ordered a banquet in the young son’s honor, put a ring on his finger and a new robe on his back and they celebrated.

He had a very self-righteous attitude about his service, he was better than his brother, as such could have felt a sense of self-satisfaction at his brother’s leaving and his fall. His arrogance conspicuously exude throughout the air, in that sense he too could hardly wait until his father was dead and he receives everything. He didn’t serve because he had his father’s heart, but what he would receive out of it. How could he go and rescue his brother, he didn’t love him like his father did. These underlying reasons play roles as to why we haven’t been able to go looking for our brother. Notice who was slapping a label on the younger brother, so when society tends to define him as “the waste of the world,” it is not hard for our own people to do the same, thus disregard him.

This angered the older son, who said I never left, worked hard at your estate, never wasted your money on prostitutes. But I was never given any of this, no banquet in my honor, no ring or robe, the father replied, “don’t you know all that have is yours.” In other words there was never a need to celebrate, the ring represented relationship restored, the robe meant restored with all the honors belonging to such relationship. There are three main concerns that are quite glaring in this account that speaks to the relationship of black men. (1) The older brother who should have been wiser and claimed to be more responsible, knew his brother was very capricious and irresponsible, yet he never enquired about him or

It is also easy for ministries to interpret “faith building messages” as an attempt to savage him were he to take heed, thus allowing church to stay in the generic grouping. By doing this they don’t have to mention any distinguishing features relative to black people or the difficulties peculiar to black life or in any way hold interracial churches accountable.

White churches can continue their agenda without ever having to address the ills of the past where they know they are guilty. White evangelical churches are almost entirely republican and to the tune of over 40 million and are at strict odds with the politics of the black community. Even blacks on Christian television and white Christian television shows will not mention or crusade for characteristically black perils or the idiosyncratic woes of black life.

This is quite fatal because the black church is the most powerful gate keeping defender of the black community, if it has been silence or neutralized the respect for its ethnicity is lost. Too often black people are found sitting in agreement with white assemblies as they infer black life as a terminal self-inflicted imposition on the rest of society that must be exorcised.

The fortunate ones who were able to escape and allowed to share Christian platform, are basically exonerating and absolving white people of any guilt, their presence attest when black problems are not dealt with. All these things are facts of history, yet uncomfortable conversation, but contributes to the

lack of concern for not going after your brother.

Then we have to find plausible reasons for not doing so, which normally means twisting biblical justification. The truth that many black people don’t know is we have a biblical Hamitic covenant, as a covenant people, it includes all of us, the despicable, the hated, the embarrassing, the habitual pathological ones of us are all part of that covenant. None of us are able to dismiss any one of us, that is what our adversary does and want us to do to the rest of us. As covenant people we are obligated to rescue the unwanted ones of us and leave the cleansing or execrating up to God. Because the surprising thing is, it is the “Prodigal Son” who will bring the revelation home, he is the one who developed the “The Father’s Heart” or (his real intent).

He surrendered to it without feeling he was owed anything, came to realize his service could never amount to what the father had to give him. The pig pen had humbled him, nothing compared to what was in his father’s house, only he didn’t know that and why the older had no appreciation for what he had. It turns

out both sons had no appreciation for what their father had and what was available to them, only when they needed it or without it, could that be understood, which is often too late. So the lesson is to live as though that is understood and hope you never have to find out. That is the message that must be taken to “trouble” no one else is going to care whether he lives or dies. People in the church should understand it is all about “The Father’s Heart” and not about going to an assembly reading the insurance policy every week, but who didn’t come home when the lights came on. Maybe the police are beating his brains out, because we didn’t go after him, maybe they are killing each other, which we should be just as angry about, because they didn’t know there was a covenant. Looking for trouble seems to indicate, strategically searching for him, employing every means and aptitude to uncover where he may be hiding or stuck. The church does not have an excuse for not finding trouble, perhaps the white church has some wriggle room, but the black church has none! This is not meant to hurt or disrespect anyone, “Just Looking For Trouble.”

Kreative Images~Precious Stones Mag

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