ISSUE.02.MAR2018 by The APPOINTED Magazine

THE APPOINTED ISSUE 2 • MARCH 2018

Magazine

The Final Fashion Friday ICONs

Life Applications: Vision To Eat or Not to eat ...

Ron Specs COVER STORY

The Fashion Photographer Edition

Who are Alex Vitte & Ruby Santamaria?

IN THIS ISSUE 04

Editor's Note

Top 10 Companies in 2018

Cover Story: ron specs

Do You Have a Vision?

Fashion Friday ICONs

Meet Alex & Ruby

To Eat or Not To Eat

“THE BEST THING ABOUT A PICTURE IS THAT IT NEVER CHANGES, EVEN WHEN THE PEOPLE IN IT DO.”

-ANDY WARHOL

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July 2019

editor's note In this issue you are going to get to know more amazing people, from models to photographers to someone that has chosen life over death by anorexia. We will be highlighting fashion photographers and their inspiration behind the lens. Our goal is to shed light on people and organizations that have been appointed to do great things in life in a modern, fashionable way. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we have enjoyed putting it together for you. If you feel like you or anyone you know has been APPOINTED in business, fashion and/or entertainment contact us on our website at www.theappointedmagazine.com. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you and your loved ones well in all your endeavors.

Regina Fraga EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

4 | EDITOR'S NOTE

“TAKING PICTURES IS SAVORING LIFE INTENSELY EVERY HUNDREDTH OF A SECOND.”

-MARK RIBOUD

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July 2019

erutluC & ssenisuB

THE TOP 10 COMPANIES TO WORK FOR IN 2018 JOB-HUNTING SITE GLASSDOOR'S 10TH-ANNUAL LIST OF THE 100 BEST PLACES TO WORK ACROSS THE U.S. WAS RECENTLY RELEASED. LET'S SEE WHO THE TOP 10 ARE: 10. Ultimate Software: Company Rating - 4.5 (Ultimate Software is a technology company that develops and sells HR software.) This Miami-based technology company covers 100% of employees' health-care premiums and 100% of their dependents' premiums, which includes dental, vision, mental health and prescription drug coverage. Ultimate Software also kicks in a 40% 401(k) match, free boot camp classes twice a week and free lunch every Monday. It's no wonder why employees love working here. 9. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: Company Rating - 4.5 (St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a children's hospital pioneering research and treatments for kids with cancer and other life-threatening diseases.) As a result of the nonprofit's mission to care for children at no cost, there's a deeply felt, shared culture centered on saving lives and making a positive difference in the world. In addition, work/life balance is encouraged with flexible schedules and an on-site gym available to all employees. 8. World Wide Technology: Company Rating - 4.5 (World Wide Technology is a technologyconsulting company.) Everyone on the team at World Wide Tech stands by the company's core values, including

8 | BUSINESS

honesty, integrity and humility — along with a strong work ethic and a good attitude. Of course working there has tangible benefits, too. The tech giant boasts a new state-of-theart headquarters and extensive training programs, and a profit-sharing plan. 7. HubSpot: Company Rating - 4.6 (HubSpot makes sales and marketing software.) The Boston-based marketing software startup prides itself on offering employees many opportunities to learn, try new things and grow their careers. The company is making significant strides in creating a healthy work/life balance by giving workers unlimited vacation days, allowing pets in the office and offering free beer. 6. Lululemon: Company Rating - 4.6 (Lululemon is an athletic apparel retailer.) In a race to the top, this yoga and running gear retailer continues to outperform its competitors. Thanks to free yoga classes and team-based commissions, there's much more of a communal culture here. Meanwhile, Lululemon is hungry to expand, which means more hiring opportunities for those who want to get in on the action. 5. Google: Company Rating - 4.6 (Google is the world's largest internet search site.)

2. Bain & Company: Company Rating - 4.6 (Bain & Company is one of the world's leading consulting firms with offices in 56 cities around the world.) The Boston based consulting firm keep their work forces engaged, satisfied and they offer a company culture that their employees truly believe in. Not to mention, they offer a highly competitive compensation package for their employees. 1. Facebook: Company Rating - 4.6 (Facebook is the world's largest social network.) It is no surprise that so many employees "like" working for Mark Zuckerberg, but their reasons go way beyond the salaries, benefits and free food. They appreciate the company's missiondriven culture, transparent leadership and the fact that their work impacts billions of lives worldwide everyday. The social media giant has now made this list for eight consecutive years over the past decade and has been at No. 1 three times. *Information obtained from: Business Insider, Glassdoor and CNBC

It is no surprise that Google, one of the most sought-after employers, landed at No. 5 on Glassdoor's list. It's also one of only three companies to make the top 100 list every year in the list's 10-year history. The secret to their success is all about the entire employee package, offering massages, catered meals, generous parental leave and other amazing benefits. In addition to being one of the highest-paying companies in America. 4. In-N-Out Burger: Company Rating - 4.6 (In-N-Out Burger is a chain of fast-food burger restaurants.) The California based restaurant chain is not only a favorite among burger lovers, but also its workers. That's likely because employees of the family-owned restaurants

have competitive salaries, flexible schedules, paid vacations and a 401(k) plan, as well as parties and athletic events throughout the year. They also get free Double Double burgers and fries daily. 3. Boston Consulting Group: Company Rating - 4.6 (Boston Consulting Group is a global business and managementconsulting company.) They heavily recruit on college campuses around the firm's home base in Boston, MA, as well as, nationwide. This makes Boston Consulting Group an excellent place for new grads to start out and stay for the long term. They are also known for having one of the highest base salaries, at nearly $150,000, according to a separate report by Glassdoor.

BUSINESS | 9

Photo by: Ron Specs

"I've dedicated my life to creating a legacy for my son." -Ron Specs

10 | BUSINESS

COVER STORY

RON SPECS FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER

Born and raised in New York City, Fashion Photographer, Ron Specs, relocated to Dallas, Texas to make a better life for his son, Aiden. He has dedicated his life to creating a legacy for his son and is working incredibly hard at his photography to do so. Ron wants his son to know what it is to have passion and work hard to succeed. He calls himself "the Dadographer", whose specialty is fashion and diapers. We had the opportunity to ask him a few questions and here is what he had to say...

Aiden

Photo by: Ron Specs

WHAT SERVICES AND/OR PRODUCTS DO YOU OFFER?

Primarily a fashion photographer, however I do it all from cover events to family portraits.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO DO WHAT YOU DO AND WHY?

There was a time where I hated seeing myself in images and about eight years ago I made a decision to love myself more. Now I want to do the same for the world ya know, allow them to see the beauty in themselves.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH BY DOING WHAT YOU DO?

I hope to find beauty in everything, as well as, spread love through my art.

WHAT/WHO DRIVES YOU TO CONTINUE TO DO WHAT YOU DO? WHY?

My son Aiden drives me to be a better me. I want to give him an example of a person who followed his dreams and let nothing stand in his way.

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT YOU?

I sang in the church choir as a kid.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

Eat wings and watch sports. WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT TO WORK WITH THUS FAR IN YOUR CAREER?

Harry Belafonte by far was the most inspiring.

WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL IN LIFE?

To find the beauty in everything and spread love through art.

@ronspecs @ronspecsphotography www.ronspecs.com

Photo by: Alky Fennell

What is Easter? Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

EASTER TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD Check out these Easter traditions from around the globe and the history behind them.

John 3:16 (NKJV) For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

BRAZIL

CORFU, GREECE

FRANCE

Brazilians celebrate by crafting dolls made up of straw and then destroying them on the street. The dolls are meant to represent Judas Iscariot – Jesus’ betrayer. In a similar fashion, countries that are predominantly Catholic, such as Mexico, Greece, and Spain also destroy representations of Judas during the Easter Holiday.

The traditional of “Pot Throwing” takes place on the morning of Holy Saturday. People throw pots, pans and other earthenware out of their windows, smashing them on the street.

In the town of Haux, a giant omelet made with 4,500 eggs that feeds 1,000 people is served up in the town’s main square. The story goes, when Napoleon and his army were traveling through the south of France, they stopped in a small town and ate omelets.

HUNGARY “Sprinkling” is a popular Hungarian Easter Monday tradition, in which boys playfully sprinkle perfume, cologne or water over a young women’s head, and ask for a kiss. People used to believe that water had a cleaning, healing and fertility-inducing effect.

Some say the custom of throwing of pots welcomes spring, symbolizing the new crops that will be gathered in new pots. Others say it derives from the Venetians, who on New Year’s Day used to throw out all of their old items.

SEVILLE, SPAIN

One of the biggest Easter celebrations takes place in Seville, where 52 different religious brotherhoods parade through the streets manifesting the crucifixion, with thousands watching the daily processions of marching bands and decorated candlelit floats heaving with Baroque statues illustrating the Easter story.

WASHINGTON D.C., USA In the United States, the President hosts the annual Easter Egg Roll on the White House lawn on Easter Monday. The tradition, believed to date back to the early 19th century, involves children rolling a colored hard-boiled egg with a large serving spoon.

12 | CULTURE

Napoleon liked his so much that he ordered the townspeople to gather their eggs and make a giant omelet for his army the next day.

SWEDEN

Easter in Sweden sounds a lot like Halloween to me, with the children dressing up as Easter witches wearing long skirts, colourful headscarves and painted red cheeks, and go from home to home in their neighborhoods trading paintings and drawings in the hope of receiving sweets.

WMOO is an organization founded in 2006 by Tom and Shovana Laseter, which is dedicated to the well-being of the people of Nepal, South Asia; Shovana's home country. This country is an ancient mountain country that has been devastated by the 2015 earthquakes and was left in dire poverty.

“RESCUING THE WEAK AND THE FATHERLESS FROM THE HAND OF THE WICKED.” WMOO has made a commitment to help the orphans and victims of human trafficking of Nepal by providing them shelter, a surrogate family, and an education

WORLD MISSIONS OUTREACH ORGANIZATION with the help of their supporters around the world.

FIGHTING AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

WMOO is a registered 501 (c) 3

The loss of life and property from

registered as an NGO in Nepal.

earthquakes has made the Nepal

people desperate and vulnerable. Up to 7,000 Nepali girls are

trafficked to India every year.

non-profit organization in the United States of America and

Through the donations of their

partners, WMOO has been able to provide children of Nepal

necessities like food, shelter, and

HELPING ORPHANS

medication.

1 million Nepali children were left

They also give them the

at risk of hunger, exposure,

opportunity to receive an

disease, and child trafficking after

education and learn skills to

the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes.

better equip themselves to survive the deceptions of those who try to

EDUCATION

exploit them.

24,000 classrooms were destroyed

Donate today and make a

during the 2015 earthquake

difference by giving the boys

leaving many students without

children of Nepal hope for a

any option for an education, their

brighter tomorrow at

only hope to escape poverty.

www.wmoo.org.

16 BOYS RESCUED

1028 GIRLS RESCUED

World Missions Outreach Organization P.O. Box: 210983

Bedford, TX 76095

14 TRAFFICKERS CAUGHT

CULTURE | 13

Life Applications

and decline. We also feed our minds by what we see and hear, which also feeds our bodies, which in turn will have a positive or negative effect on us and in turn our lives. Why not just our bodies? Well, you attract what you think about, dwell on and speak out. It is the Law of Attraction at work. That’s why dwelling on the positive, speaking positive and keeping our eyes and ears fixed on positive uplifting things will attract that to our lives.

Vision ... Do you have one? Have you considered that what we view, ponder on, think about each and every day plays a huge part in what we become and how our lives will turn out? What you think about and dwell on actually becomes a part of you and will manifest in your life. Because your mind begins to create what you think about and one day it becomes your reality. In the Bible it says, “As a man thinks in his heart so is he.” And “Without a vision people perish.” You don’t have to believe these two scriptures but you can just look around you and tell that those that dwell on positive uplifting things seem to be happier, healthier, more productive and even prosperous. Just think about a negative person you know who always focuses on the bad the negative etc. They are the most unhappy unhealthy people and complaining is their “life”, which is actually no life at all. I know you have at one point in your life said, “Wow, trouble seems to follow that person.” Or, “They are the most unlucky people.” Outwardly that person may seem like they are not doing anything to warrant what is

14 | CULTURE

going on in their lives but I can assure you that the Law of Attraction is at work and they are in fact drawing those things to their life. It has been proven that negativity has an adverse effect on creation. I say creation because plants, trees etc. also react to negativity. For example: One man took two plants and he put one in a room with beautiful music and he told the plant how beautiful it was each day. The other plant he put in a room with horrible music and told the plant it was ugly and weak for the same period of time. Within two weeks the plant in the room with the beautiful music that he gave words of affirmation was thriving and growing and so big. The other plant was well on its way to dying. So the man took the sick plant to be with the other one and started telling the plant how beautiful and healthy it was and within two weeks it was full of life and beautiful and showed no signs of any of the prior issues the negativity had caused. Just think if plants respond to negativity like this then it obviously has a profound effect on us as well. Our lives will reflect our thoughts and speech whether negative or positive. We feed our bodies a healthy diet or our bodies get sick

If you see a lot of negative in your life and in your body then to turn things around you will need to change your speech, what you are looking at, what you are hearing and what you are thinking. Remember, as a man thinks in his heart, he becomes. Your heart is your soul and your soul is made up of your mind, will and emotions. A vision board is a great way to start. It keeps your eyes focused on positive things you want in your life and you can speak your vision board out, which brings your vision board into your hearing and solidifying it in your soul (mind, will and emotions). All of this will begin to have a positive impact on your life and body. A vision board can be pictures of things you desire that are uplifting. Positive quotes, ideas or things your heart desires…maybe a spouse, a child, a job, or a car. Make sure your vision board is specific. If you want a car pick a picture of the exact make, model and color of car that you desire. The same with a job. Be specific! You will want to place the vision board where you can see it every day and spend time really looking at it and getting into your heart. You want to be able to recall your vision board in your mind’s eye so that you can think about it during the day. Before you go to sleep at night take another look at it and reflect on it as you go off to sleep.

Now you are getting your eyes and mind on something positive. But now you need to line your speech up with your vision board. Don’t allow negative words to come out of your mouth about yourself, others, circumstances or your vision board. Learn to speak positive words that uplift, create peace and love. These are things you want to draw to your life… not the negative.

Create an atmosphere of life that you will thrive in. Create an atmosphere of life that you will thrive in. If your room is dark let some light in. If things are tense put on some music that is bright and cheery. Take time for “you”. You may find that you have to ‘delete’ people from your life because they are toxic to you now. Trust me, this happens more than you know. Misery loves company but you are now on your way to exiting from that way of life. You won’t be needing anything that doesn’t line up with your new vision as it would make the process much slower and even cause you to give up. Keep a journal of the things that you want to see changed in your life. Put them on the vision board and begin to see them as yours; speak as though they exist and see how your life begins to change from week to week and chart it in your journal. It takes time but you will notice that before long everything just seems different. It is so impactful when you begin to realize that these changes are not hard but carry so much weight in your life for the positive. Before long others will want to know what you did to turn things around. They might even say that you look different. And guess what? You will be able to tell them and you will have just what they need to begin their own metamorphosis.

After implementing this you may find that your dreams change. Make sure that you document them in your journal. Why? Because dreams are important!!! (But that is another topic I could spend days talking about.) Always document your dreams so you can refer back to them if needed. And, maybe I’ll write about that sometime in an article and you will already have them to refer to. Oh, one last thing, your vision board will change from time to time because as your life progresses you will want to add and take away from your vision board as you continually grow into who you are to become as you fulfill your purpose and place in life. Remember, without vision people perish and as a man thinks in his heart, he becomes. (Paraphrased)

Life Applications Let Mona Delaine know what you would like to hear about next by visiting: www.theappointedmagazine.com/monadelaine

-YES YOU CAN!

unknown

by Mona Delaine

2018

The Year of Historic Anniversaries

February 2018 We celebrated the 100th Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote

April 4, 2018 Will be the 50th Anniversary of the Death of Martin Luther King Jr. Dr King

Other Anniversaries Include: 250th Anniversary of Captain James Cook Setting Sail from England on board HMS Endeavor 200th Anniversary of the Publication of Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley 100th Anniversary of the Formation of the Royal Air Force

CULTURE | 15

Fashion

Model: Gianna Della Sera Photo By: Ekko Media Inc.

Lifestyle

n o i h s a F y a d i r F S N ICO

18 | FASHION

PRESENTED BY JAR ELITE MGMT

The Fashion Friday ICON initiative started in 2015 by JAR Elite Mgmt to give people an opportunity to be promoted globally every Friday for a full week. People of all ages and different backgrounds, from bakers to fashion designers to models, were highlighted and featured on JAR Elite Mgmt's website and on their social media. After featuring almost 100 people, JAR Elite Mgmt decided to end the Fashion Friday ICON initiative on a high note in December 2017. Let's get to know the Fashion Friday ICON's that were voted to be featured in The APPOINTED Magazine by their supporters: Pooja Singh, Ameiya, Emily Bastardo, Da'Naja Mosely, Eri Golden, Margie Ray-Akinje & Addie Weaver

WWW.JARELITEMGMT.COM

FASHION | 19

SHREWSBURY, MA

gh n i S a j Poo

MY FA VORIT E TV SH OW

The W alking Dead

E VORIT MY FA R COLO

ld! Go Bo Red -

MODEL: POOJA SINGH PHOTO BY: NAVEED NOUR

What is your favorite genre of music? Bollywood Who inspires you? My Father - he has a positive attitude and is very determined. What is your favorite movie? ‘The Pursuit of Happiness’ is my all time favorite movie. This movie highlights how one can achieve success by not giving up, despite all odds. I feel honored to have been chosen to be featured in the magazine. I believe in not letting your age define you. Anything is possible if you have passion and the drive to make it happen. Keep trying and someone will find the gem (JEM) in you.

-Pooja

CARROLLTON, TX

a y i e Am

MY FA VORIT E TV SH OW

Game of Thron es

MODEL: AMEIYA PHOTO BY: MANCERA ART PHOTOGRAPHY

What can't you walk out of the door with? Negativity. There is always something positive to look for in every situation and unless I find that for myself I don't feel good to leave. What's your favorite trend right now? Simple and professional clothes are becoming classy again. Also more of earthy and pastel colors are gaining momentum. I see these changes as a good sign into the change of psyche of people. We are becoming more open minded.

RITE AVO MY F R COLO

- It's Black y. class r e v e for

What's your all time favorite movie? The Godfather. It teaches mainly how to emerge out of failure, regain power and yet be humble and kind. Being voted as the favorite Fashion Friday ICON of the month feels, fantastic. I am so thankful to the Almighty and all my supporters.

ameiya

LOUISVILLE, KY

o d r a t s a Emily B

MY FA VORI TE TV SH OW

Stran ger Thing s

RITE AVO F Y M RS COLO

k & Pin Red

MODEL: MODEL:EMILY EMILYBASTARDO BASTARDO PHOTO PHOTOBY: TONY BY: TONYWELSCHER WELSCHER

MODEL: EMILY BASTARDO PHOTO BY: TONY WELSCHER

How would you describe your style, in one word? Unique What can't you walk out of the door with and why? My iPhone & Earrings What's your favorite trend right now? Bodysuits & Bracelets Who inspires you? My Mother What's your all time favorite movie? Finding Nemo, because it shows how caring they are and how they work together to find Nemo. What is your ultimate goal in life? To become a professional model and actress. It has been an honor to be voted as the FFI of the month. It shows me that there are a lot of people supporting me and who will help me reach my goals in life.

Emily

DALLAS,Â TX

a j a N Da' y l e s Mo

MY FA VORIT E TREN D

Distre ssed Denim

RITE AVO F Y M OR COL

Pink

MODEL: DA'NAJA MOSELY PHOTO BY: D. LACY PHOTOGRAPHY

WHO ES ME INSPIR for

ng love My stro n for passio God & do love to what I pursue me to s e ir p ins ams! my Dre

MY S TYL

E IS: Creat ive, D iffere Fashi nt, onab le & Trend y

DALLAS, TX

en d l o G Eri

RITE AVO MY F R COLO

Black

WHO INSPIRES ME

Japanese Model, Ai Tomin aga

MODEL: ERI GOLDEN PHOTO BY: MORRIS PEACE

MODEL:Â ERI GOLDEN PHOTO BY: MORRIS PEACE

THING SOME 'T E DON PEOPL T ME ABOU W O N K TV. watch I don't

MY FAV ORITE TV SHO W

Prison B reak, becaus e Micha el is supe r smart .

" y s s i M ie " g r a M nje i k A Ray CEDAR PARK, TX

MY FAVORIT E COLOR Pink - It's a co lor of love, beau ty and charm.

MODEL: MARGIE "MISSY" RAY-AKINJE PHOTO BY:Â MARQUEL EILAND

MODEL: MARGIE "MISSY" RAY-AKINJE PHOTO BY: MARQUEL EILAND

E VORIT MY FA OW TV SH d to Marrie ine Medic

What can't you walk out of the door with? My cell phone. Everything is on my cell phone. What's your favorite trend right now? I really like the African patterns and flower print trend. Being a plus size women I have always been warned not to wear flower print or anything that is perceived to be too busy. However, I get the most compliments when I wear my African and floral prints. Who inspires you? My oldest daughter Rachael Ray inspires me. She is only 11 but yet she is so mature that it wows me. As I walk through separation and more than likely a divorce, she has been my biggest supporter and cheerleader. The love that she shows me is irreplaceable. What's your all time favorite movie? Why? I love War Room. This movie inspired me beyond what I could ever imagine. I loved its uncompromising faith. I now have prayer time with my children at home every single day. This change has changed my family forever. What is the name of the last song you listened to? A Little More Jesus by Erica Campbell What is your ultimate goal in life? My ultimate goal in life is to build my Royal Oils and Organic Skincare business and educate people on the dangers of products that contains fillers and harmful chemicals.

Missy

SAN ANTONIO, TX

ver a e W Addie MY FAVOR ITE COLOR Purple

E VORIT MY FA OW TV SH House Fuller

MODEL: ADDIE WEAVER PHOTO BY:Â NATALIE ANN

MODEL: ADDIE WEAVER PHOTO BY: NATALIE ANN

MY FAVOR ITE MOVIES Bee Movie & Miracles fr om Heaven

MY STYLE IS Comfortab le & Fun

ES NSPIR WHO I ME d& opelan Misty C ro atanza Kacy C

MODELS & TALENT JAR ELITE MGMT IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF CULTIVATING A WIDE RANGE OF INNOVATIVE AND VIBRANT MODELS/TALENT OF ALL HEIGHTS, WEIGHTS AND ETHNICITIES. WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW MODELS/TALENT THAT ARE AGES 5+, MALES AND FEMALES WITH PASSION & DRIVE TO PUT IN THE WORK TO BE SUCCESSFUL. GO TO WWW.JARELITEMGMT.COM/JOINJARELITEMGMT FOR CONSIDERATION.

TEXAS & GEORGIA WWW.JARELITEMGMT.COM

NO DISCRIMINATION NO HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS NO WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS

"We Find the JEM in Everyone!"

“DON’T SHOOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE. SHOOT WHAT IT FEELS LIKE.”

-DAVID ALAN HARVEY

| 03

July 2019

Alex Vitte Photography

36 | FASHION

model ruby santamaria

FASHION | 37

MODEL: RUBY SANTAMARIA ALEX VITTE PHOTOGRAPHY

ALEX V

Alex Vitte is a rising photographer in Dallas, Texas, touching lives everyday through her lens. Let's get to know her better through our Q&A we did: What do you hope to accomplish by doing what you do? I have an immense passion for photography. I can capture not only smiles, but moments that often go unnoticed. An image can take you back in time and stir emotions in you. I love that photography allows me to capture those seconds of time that will be cherished for many years down the road. I hope to touch many people’s lives, by inspiring them and capturing their special moments.

What do you like to do for fun? Hobbies? I love to read psychological thrillers, watch Netflix, and have cookouts with the family. What has been your greatest achievement to work with thus far in your career/profession? My greatest achievement has been how much I have improved on people skills. I’m a big introvert, so it’s hard for me to talk to people I don’t know very well. Photography has challenged me to get out of my comfort zone.

MY ULTIMATE LIFE GOAL IS TO BUILD A LIFE THAT WILL ALLOW ME TO DO WHAT I LOVE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE, WITHOUT WORRYING ABOUT MONEY.

What is your ultimate goal in life? My ultimate life goal is to build a life that will allow me to do what I love for the rest of my life, without worrying about money.

@shotsbyalex @alexvitte www.alexvittephotography.com

FASHION | 41

MODEL: RUBY SANTAMARIA ALEX VITTE PHOTOGRAPHY

RUBY

MY ALL TIME FAVORITE

SANTAMARIA Ruby is a rising model and talent of the JAR Elite Mgmt agency in Dallas, Texas. Let's see what she had to say during our Q&A: What is your favorite TV show? World of Dance & America's Got Talent What is your favorite color(s)? Red & Gold What's your favorite trend right now? Rose Imprinted Clothing & Leather Jackets What is the name of the last song/artist you listened to? Blind Man by Xavier Omär

What inspires you? The smiling faces from people I come across every day and all the people I care about inspire me every day.

MOVIE IS WONDER WOMAN - IT SHOWED ME WHY YOU

How would you describe your style? Different Every Day - One day I'll rock my heels & leather jacket and another day I'll wear a vintage outfit with my wedge heels. I love fashion!

SHOULD ALWAYS HELP PEOPLE & TO BE WHO YOU

What is your ultimate goal in life? To be an inspiration & to be the reason why someone is smiling today. Follow Her: @the.golden.eyed.model

ARE NO MATTER WHAT

FASHION | 43

To EAT... OR NOT TO EAT ... by Ayisha Unique Otero

An eating disorder is characterized by abnormal eating patterns that attempt to satisfy a psychological, rather than physical need. The three most common disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia is characterized by selfstarvation, weight loss, an irrational fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. Bulimia nervosa is characterized by a cycle of compulsive binging followed by purging through various means, such as vomiting, laxative or diuretic abuse and extreme exercising. Binge-eating disorder is the most common disorder and is characterized by frequent periods of compulsive overeating without purging behaviors. 22 year old Hayley Marie was just searching for love, identity, and selfconfidence. From personal experience and as a woman you search for these things and validation all throughout your life, until you find your purpose. Hayley happened to have a few wrong turns in getting there including through laxative and diuretic abuse and extreme exercising. With laxative bulimia, as with the other two eating disorders, there is a physical problem but the main problem is in the mind. It is a mental and emotional problem that must be addressed or the bulimic will switch to other medicators such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, love, and sex – anything to ease the pain of living. It’s not what you are eating but what’s eating you.

44 | LIFESTYLE

After speaking with Hayley I really wanted to know why and how she got to this state of being and see where her life was headed and what she’s currently doing today. She started off working in a plastic surgeon’s office and loved every bit of it. All she ever wanted was to help women feel beautiful and confident and just knew that was her purpose for her life, yet she was still unsure and not confident about herself.

She said, "I'd saran wrap my tummy so my patients would think I was pretty. I tried to do a chicken and rice diet fad, tried to hire a personal trainer...I TRIED IT ALL!" One day she just reached a breaking point and looked up how to lose weight without making yourself throw up? Survey says....LAXATIVES: So she started off 3 a day...then 4 daily...Then go do cardio until she felt like she would pass out and then actually pass out.

Saw she still had no results and still miserable and then took it up to 10 DAILY!! In a 3 month time period she was spending up to $600 a month, maxing out her credit card to pay for laxatives, personal trainer and now a popular weight loss supplement that contained phentermine, which is found in cocaine, and also can be found in Adderall. 200 calories a day... 4 of the phentermine, 15 laxatives a day... And her liver SHUT DOWN. She quickly developed acid reflux and her body would regurgitate, as it wouldn’t even process food. “If you are doing anything to try to reach a certain health goal, and you are not doing it in a healthy way, YOU HAVE AN EATING DISORDER!!” says Haylely. The day that changed her life… Christmas 2015 as she was trying to reach her goal… she got so sick that she could not get off the toilet, as she took 15 laxatives that day. She broke down crying, and in pain knowing that this was the first Christmas that she would ever not have gifts for her family because she had spent all of her money on maxing out her cards to afford to “try” to look good. As she sat there and in tears, a message comes on her phone, which later changed her life. She got invited on a date from a man who happened to own a healthy smoothie shop, and was so excited and attractive, and had a group of people she’d always see him with. Haley said, "I saw him with a smoothie in his hand, happy and smiling with a group of his friends.

That was attractive to me that he had friends, and people that would hang out with him. I couldn’t even find one person to do that with me, let alone might’ve wanted to.”

d to she decide atives in take 11 lax erving a single s Yet, at this point, she was sure she had moved past that. Prior to that date, she decided to take 11 laxatives in a single serving and didn’t even end up making the date. She ended up getting a hemorrhoid, crying out and in pain and had to once and for all reach out to her family for help. Earlier I mentioned that she couldn't consume much and the only thing she could get down was this smoothie, which she would end up drinking up to 3x a day...at 195 calories each.

This man... This smoothie, and this lifestyle has changed her life FOREVER. Hayley finally stopped taking laxatives, placed on medication to help mentally clear up how she felt about herself and ultimately started to really follow a nutrition plan. She is now a health coach out in Mansfield, Texas and is helping women get healthy and happy by becoming the best versions of themselves, EMPOWERING WOMEN TO EMPOWER THEMSELVES. The road to eating disorder recovery starts with admitting you have a problem. This admission can be tough, especially if you’re still clinging to the belief—even in the back of your mind—that weight loss is the key to happiness, confidence, and success. Even when you finally understand this isn’t true, old habits are still hard to break. The good news is that the eating disorder behaviors you’ve learned can be unlearned if you’re motivated to change and willing to ask for help. However, overcoming an eating disorder is about more than giving up unhealthy eating behaviors. It’s also about rediscovering who you are beyond your eating habits, weight, and body image. It can be scary and embarrassing to seek help for an eating disorder, but opening up about the problem is an important step on the road to recovery. However, it’s important to choose someone who will be supportive and truly listen without judging you or rejecting you. This could be a close friend or family member or a youth leader, teacher, or school counselor you trust. Or you may be more comfortable confiding in a therapist or doctor. JUST REACH OUT... USE YOUR VOICE... BE HEARD TODAY!!! ASK FOR HELP! For more information visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.

LIFESTYLE | 45

tnemniatretnE

Movies to Watch

FRIDAY, MARCH 30

FRIDAY, APRIL 6

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

FRIDAY, APRIL 27

FRIDAY, MAY11

FRIDAY, MAY 18

FRIDAY, MAY 25

“Giving voice to characters that have no other voice—that’s the great worth of what we do.” —MERYL STREEP

48 | ENTERTAINMENT

FREE! MOVIES AT THE PARK EVERY FRIDAY EVENING @ 8:30PM THE SHOPS AT PARK LANE 8080 PARK LANE DALLAS, TX 75231

APRIL 06 WONDER WOMAN APRIL 13 WONDER APRIL 20 JUMANJI: "WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE"

APRIL 27 COCO

The free outdoor movie series returns to The Shops at Park Lane with blockbuster movies every Friday night in April. You, your family and friends will want to grab a blanket, bring your appetite and arrive early to take advantage of special offers and pre-show activities. There will be no coolers or alcohol permitted on the lawn. Although, alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase on restaurant patios. *Weather permitting.

The APPOINTED Magazine's Album Picks thru May 2018 Camila Cabello, 'Camila' (Released Jan. 12) Fall Out Boy, 'M A N I A' (Released Jan. 19) Migos, 'Culture II' (Released Jan 26) Justin Timberlake, 'Man of the Woods' (Released Feb. 2) Social Club Misfits, 'Into the Night' (Released Feb. 9) Brandi Carlile, 'By the Way, I Forgive You' (Released Feb.16) Michael W. Smith, 'A Million Lights' (Release Feb. 16) Toni Braxton, 'Sex & Cigarettes' (Released March 23) Jordan Feliz, 'Future' (Released March 23) Kacey Musgraves, 'Golden Hour' (Released March 30) Kylie Minouge, 'Golden' (April 6) Hillsong Worship, 'There Is More' (April 6) Tinashe, 'Joyride' (April 13) Janelle Monáe 'Dirty Computer' (April 27) Belly, 'Dove' (May 4) Lincoln Brewster, 'God of the Impossible' (May 4) Charlie Puth, 'Voicenotes' (May 11) Album Release Dates TBD: Ariana Grande, Carly Rae Jepsen, Liam Payne, Rihanna, Zayn Malik

“Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom & philosophy.” ― LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN

50 | FASHION

The APPOINTED Magazine BUSINESS | CULTURE | FASHION | LIFESTYLE | ENTERTAINMENT

EDITOR IN CHEIF Regina Fraga COPY EDITOR Mona Pollina CONTRIBUTORS Angelica Pinilla Ayisha Otero Darlene Saenz Mona Pollina CREATIVE DIRECTOR Regina Fraga

Dear Readers Dear Readers We hope you enjoyed this issue as much as we enjoyed designing it. We will continue to be on the lookout for those of you that have been APPOINTED to be at the forefront in business, fashion and entertainment industries so we can feature you in a future issue. If you or someone you know would like to be featured in an upcoming issue, contact us at www.theappointedmagazine.com.

GET SOCIAL WITH US: @theappointedmagazine @theappointedmagazine @theappointedmag www.theappointedmagazine.com *Options to purchase a copy of the magazine can be found online.