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DICK GREGORY Comedian and Civil Rights Activist
1932-2017
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GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
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LISA NICOLE CLOUD 12
Lisa Nicole Cloud’s Photos taken by Nai-Tsang Cheng
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CONTENT WHAT’S INSIDE:
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE COVER STORY UP & COMING HEALTH & WELLNESS INSPIRATIONAL EVENT TRENDS PHILANTHROPIC AUTHOR’S CORNER BEAUTY FASHION ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT REAL ESTATE FALL 2017
FRONT COVER DESIGNED By DPI GRAPHICS DESIGN
TVOne’s BOBBI KRISTINA STORY 26
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or the most part, we all live in this world to enjoy life and be happy. However, while some people are enjoying life, other people are merely existing. I believe it is important to help, love and support one another, and I’m a firm believer that, as you are blessed, you should be a blessing to others. With this in mind, I challenge you to do at least one good deed per month. Now, doing a good deed doesn’t necessarily mean spending money. Offering your time, knowledge, services and other things you possess, can all be received in the form of a good deed. So, I challenge you to do one, or all of the following to help the less fortunate enjoy a more meaningful life. If you own a business, give an unqualified person an opportunity to learn by hiring and training them for success. Take that old care that you haven’t driven in months and may not ever drive again, and give it to the lady you see at the bus stop each morning. Support a low income family by donating that old desk top computer you replaced with a new laptop and no longer use. If an opportunity is not for you, pass it along to a colleague who may be interested and qualified. If you’re always on top of your game, help someone who is not, by mentoring them on life skills, education, finances, parenting, work skills/training, or other areas you’re skilled in. Buy an extra bag of groceries while you’re at the store and deliver them to a home in your community. Help a child by registering with the county schools in your area, and volunteer to read to a class or by becoming a tutor. If you’re the boss, switch places with one of your subordinates for a day. You take the cubicle and give them the office. You’d be surprised how motivating this can be to their success, and how humbling it can be to yours. Once you’ve acted on your good deed(s), take a minute to reach out to us on Facebook and share what you chose and how you and others benefited. We’d love to hear from you. We can all become Trendsetters by setting a positive example and changing the game for everyone to win. Love thy neighbor and help those in need. You’ll be amazed at how great if feels. ▄
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U B L I S H E STEWART WILL R 8
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A LETTER FROM SENIOR WRITER SHERNITA WIGGINS-WYNDER
Photo by Lawrence Wynder HORIZON Photography
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MUA: Jane Chacon, Estee Lauder DILLARD’s Pensacola, FL
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WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE? Mother, mother There's too many of you crying Brother, brother, brother There's far too many of you dying You know we've got to find a way To bring some lovin' here today, eheh Father, father We don't need to escalate You see, war is not the answer For only love can conquer hate You know we've got to find a way To bring some lovin' here today, oh oh oh Picket lines and picket signs Don't punish me with brutality Talk to me, so you can see Oh, what's going on What's going on
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Drawing by Clarence "Pencilman"Pointe www.clarencepointer.com
--Marvin Gaye
remember this song blaring on the radio in the 70's. As a child, I didn't fully understand the meaning of the words, but I sure did love the music. Amazing, that no matter the age, a child can relate to music and it will transcend time and space. It will allow you to connect and remember what you were doing years later. That's what we aspire for our readers to gain from each issue of the Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine brands. We hope you will continue to subscribe, purchase, and support the amazing stories, brands, and events we share for years to come in our Trendsetters to Trendsetters, Latino Trendsetters, or FanSetters Sports Magazines as you are enlightened and empowered. If you know someone who has a story that should be shared with the world, contact one of our phenomenal writers or administrative team members, so that we can make that HAPPEN! If there is a new or existing business that wants to expand their base, contact us so we can help you. Regardless of the size of your company or organization, we have an ad or opportunity that will fit your needs. Each issue will always include highlights of updates on social and health issues, inspirational moments, arts and entertainment, and educational pursuits. This issue features the TV ONE Bobbi Kristina biopic. Publisher, Willie Stewart, our administrative staff, and team of writers enjoy your reviews and comments, so, keep them coming! Marvin is gone, but his legacy is not. Let's take heed to healing the social unrests in our society today and spread more LOVE...instead of hate. â–„
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As always we are humbled at your ongoing support! Shernita Wiggins-Wynder Senior Staff Writer Twitter: @Carmel-Velocity Email: shernita@trendtotrendmag.com
Lisa Nicole Cloud's WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT NETWORK THE STRONG COLLECTION IPTV & CANNABIS By Keina Kennedy
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ome time ago, I attended a charity event in Atlanta, Georgia which included a fashion show featuring the beautiful Lisa Nicole Cloud and her STRONG Collection. After the show, I witnessed Lisa finesse the crowd with the most calming and positive demeanor. I knew then I wanted to interview her. Quickly, I learned this was indeed the Lisa Nicole from the Bravo TV Show, “Married To Medicine,” and the woman who made millions from direct sales. Lisa invited me to her home where we sat down and discussed her world, including her “winters” (struggles).
THE BUSINESS WOMAN
Photography by Nai-Tsang Cheng
While in my personal presence, I immediately found Lisa Nicole Cloud to be a warm and inviting spirit. Lisa is a woman of God, a mom, a wife, a philanthropist and one intelligent business woman. A native of Atlanta, Lisa graduated from Emory University. Her goal, was initially to be a doctor. However her strengths and gifts were in sales and marketing; so, like most every other American, she went in pursuit of the American Dream by way of Corporate America. For a while, Lisa worked in pharmaceutical sales until realizing that JOB was an acronym for Just Over Broke. She realized she was not achieving her financial goals and dreams and it didn’t feel like the path God created for her. “I felt like I was dying a slow death. I was unfulfilled.” Lisa then left the corporate arena and entered the industry of direct sales. There, she learned and perfected earning residual income from technology based companies who offered services such as VOIP, internet, utility services and cell phones. Lisa built an international sales organization of nearly 400,000 distributors, which earned her millions. She helped 27 other ► T2T
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individuals become documented millionaires, earning her the industry nick-name of Ms. Millionaire Maker. However, Lisa was not only a student of direct sales, she was a student of wealth strategies - and one of the smartest moves Lisa made was to diversify her portfolio. “True wealth is not by having one company, it's by owning and investing in multiple companies,” said Lisa. The business woman then invested her earnings from direct sales and founded the “Women’s Empowerment Network” (“WEN”). At WEN, Lisa empowers women via conferences and mentoring to renew their minds, re-define their goals, and re-imagine their lives for new levels of success. “I bring in girlfriends and colleagues who are at the top of their games in their respective fields and we come together and pour back into the lives of other women who are aspiring to achieve high levels of success”...But wait! Lisa's passion for helping other women did not stop there. She pioneered yet another company that tied directly into the success of her previous companies. As Lisa stood in front of crowds teaching her success tactics, telling people why she works so hard and encouraging others to find their own “why” stories, she saw a need to address the importance of ‘Dressing for Success’... “From the moment you walk into a room, people are sizing you up,” says Lisa. “Most people will dress for the position they already have, instead of the position in which they desire to be hired,” added the influential leader. Seeing this void, the already turned millionaire created her first fashion line, “The Lisa Nicole Collection.” This move was to inspire those women who didn’t necessarily have that million-dollar-budget to still be able to look the part on a friendly budget. She then created “The Diamond Collection,” followed by “The Signature Collection.” Lisa's collections are for the everyday woman, catering to all women with all different body types. She prides her lines on being timeless pieces you could wear years from now. The Lisa Nicole Collection provides attire that can take you from the boardroom to the ballroom. With her direct sales businesses, WEN, and her fashion lines, Lisa equates her winning as being cyclical (recurrent... as do summer, spring and fall). However, I felt Lisa’s transparency as a certain realness was revealed when we discussed what she called her “winters.”
stated, “I became the target.” When Lisa’s family came under attack in front of millions of viewers, Lisa took it hard. She realized that reality TV was focused on drama and that storylines were manipulated and made up for the sake of ratings. Additionally, TV created a new challenge in having to really be keenly aware of the motives of people. It was very difficult for Lisa to know who to trust and who was around her with hidden agendas. At a point, she could no longer distinguish which of her staff members on the show were being truthful to her, and which were being deceiving just to have a little TV fame. “When you are on TV or in the public eye, your circles get smaller and your inner circle gets even smaller,” Lisa realized. During this exact timeframe, Lisa’s primary business of direct sales went through a lot of transition as ownership changes occurred and company restructuring took place. This had a direct impact on her other companies, as her direct sales business had been a great source to capitalize her other ventures. With all this happening, Lisa’s stress levels were at an all time high…And here comes the worst part...Lisa’s physical health took a turn. “The show and everything else that was going on was too taxing for my body and my family”....“I heard God's voice tell me that my time was
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As mentioned, Lisa co-starred on the popular television show, “Married To Medicine” on BRAVO TV. So many times, we see negative images of women on reality TV. However, Lisa informed me her motive for signing on to the show was to be a positive light on the show. As a woman of positivity myself, I totally understood Lisa when she
done on this television show, but not done on television.” Lisa began the journey of sitting still and getting quiet so she could hear God’s voice and get clarity on her next moves. In this winter storm, Lisa turned her pain into power. Lisa redefined things and hence, “THE STRONG COLLECTION” WAS BIRTHED!
THE STRONG COLLECTION
Photography by Nai-Tsang Cheng
“The STRONG Collection” stands for She's Triumphant, Resilient, Overcomes, and Never Gives Up. It was featured this year and received great reviews in both NY Fashion & LA Fashion Weeks. The collection is made up of custom pieces that are red carpet ready, date night ready, for the office ready, and night on the town ready. The sizes range from XS to 3X and can be tailored to fit anyone. Lisa enlightened me that the size of the average woman is a 10-12. Lisa being a trendsetter went against the norm and showcased plus size models and even a pregnant woman in her show and the crowd went wild! Lisa makes certain her pieces accentuate the curves of a woman in a classy and sophisticated way. She is also mindful to disguise the typical problem areas of most women such as the belly pooch. “I see a lot of people ruin an outfit because they don't wear the proper undergarments.” Equally, the fabrics themselves are important. For the curvier women, Lisa swears by Ponte fabrics that naturally contour the body. Lisa loves designing fabulous suits and jumpsuits; which are popular today. Lisa is a stickler for quality stitching and demands from her staff that stitching on the outside must match the stitching on the inside. Her favorite piece in this collection is The Anna Dress. Lisa herself wears The Anna Dress with long gloves and shades...reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn when she played the character, Holly Golightly. “It makes me feel like I am having breakfast at Tiffany's,” Lisa exclaimed, as she blushed.
GOD AND FAMILY FIRST Lisa is extremely family oriented and considers God and her family as her first priority. She's married to Dr. Darren Naugles, also from the Bravo TV Show, “Married to Medicine.” Darren is an emergency medical physician and philanthropist who volunteers his gifts to underserved populations in Haiti and around the world. Together, they have two children who are themselves entrepreneurs. DJ, who is 12 years old, is the author of a cookbook, “DJ’s Recipes that Rock”...and
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NEW VENTURES Lisa is concentrating on her next power moves as she is focused on helping entrepreneurs capitalize on two new emerging business trends, which are: IPTV and the business of Cannabis. She believes the key to success is positioning yourself in front of major wealth trends at the right time and learning how to develop products that both solve a consumer’s problem plus fill a need. Lisa is also preparing for ministry. “God has made it abundantly clear to me that a new season of elevation is on the horizon with a heavy focus on Building God’s Kingdom.” I believe Lisa’s heart was exposed during the time I spent with her...Lisa Nicole Cloud’s true desire is to win and see
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people win. Lisa Nicole Cloud has been awarded in 2017 the Barack Obama Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, a 2015 RICE Award (Rising In Community Excellence), and recently The Governor's Outstanding Citizenship Award. You can find more information on Lisa at LisaNicoleCloud.com and LisaNicoleCollection.com or contact her office at (877) 486-4774. You can also learn about how Lisa is teaching entrepreneurs to capitalize on emerging wealth trends at IWantAPlanB.com.
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10 year old, Amira, has also written a book called, “Why Every Little Girl Is A Princess.”
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The Cedric Brown Collection
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edric Brown the 26 year old from Atlanta, Georgia has become a notable fashion Trendsetter, having earned the title of fashion designer and visual artist for his creativity and original work. Cedric who was raised by a single mother, embraced her phenomenal style as the inspiration for his fashion sketches. Cedric now operates a familyowned apparel business, Cedric Brown Collections (CBC). CBC is an international brand, with timeless elegant pieces. Top celebrities, such as Rappers Young Thug, Wale, Angie Stone, and Wyclef Jean, have been seen wearing his pieces, and let’s not forget those in media; news reporter Jovita Moore and commentators Deborah Tuff and Dr. Jason Johnson who are also inspired by his work and stylishly pull together their sought after look wearing some of his pieces. Determined not to get caught up in a destructive cycle, Cedric chose to express himself through his love of art. Through hard work and dedication he received national scholarships and grants that paid his way through college. Cedric earned his Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and additionally enhanced his degree by completing business courses at the Op-
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eration Hope Center. While attending SCAD, his fashion professors advised him to incorporate his painting background into his apparel designs. In his Senior Collection, he produced handpainted and hand-dyed designs earning him great reviews from his professors and peers, later deciding to launch his own line of accessories. Featuring his original artwork, each accessory has a story to tell and can be worn anywhere. Cedric has made a lifetime dedication to the arts. His artwork has been featured in the "Peace, Friendship, Goodwill through the Olympic Spirit" 2008 exhibition in Beijing, China. In 2010, his painting "As the Twig Bends, so the Tree Inclines" was selected for permanent display in the National Russian Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. In addition, he gained professional work experience through design internships and freelance work in New York City and Hong Kong, as well as interning at National companies such as Sears/K-Mart, Li and Fung Limited, and Carter's. Being a featured designer on CNN, Jezebel, Sheen, and TUC magazines, CBC is on its way to becoming a leading American fashion brand. Each piece is elegant but has a unique, modern edge to it. “From eveningwear to streetwear, CBC makes a chic statement."▄
UP & COMING TRENDSETTERS
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C E D R I C
Georgia’s Hidden Treasure – Love T. Nolan Elementary School By Dr. Yolanda “Cookie” Snipes
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eorgia has many Hidden Treasures that can easily be missed with the untrained eye. One such treasure is nestled in College Park between Old National and Bethsaida Road, that being Love. T. Nolan Elementary School (LTN). Love T. Nolan has been a part of Fulton County Schools since 1975. Fast forward to 2017, the school is led by Principal Evon Hewitt. Principal Hewitt leads his faculty and staff with a “One Love” theme, which may be influenced by his Jamaican roots. Principal Hewitt came on board full force ready to set trends as a leader and visionary. His leadership style of creating an atmosphere of excellence supported by modern research, commands the attention of becoming a Trendsetter in education. Under his leadership, LTN has improved in the delivery of teaching practices and parent involvement through strategic planning and reflection. Recently the school staff participated in a staff photo to demonstrate their dedication to the “One Love” vision. The photograph went viral quickly being shared on staff social media pages and sites such as Black Educator. LTN truly believes in the value and purpose of all its students regardless of challenges and obstacles they may face. Love T. Nolan has many programs to address the needs of all students, academically and socially from after school tutorials and mentoring programs for boys and girls to after school day care, Safe Haven for working parents. In 2016, LTN launched It’s Performing Arts Institute led by staff members volunteering their time to
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prepare students for two productions, a winter performance and highly successful performance of The Lion King Jr. The Lion King Jr. was a historic moment at Love T. Nolan with the largest amount of student participation and parent attendance the school had witnessed in years. The school continues with the Institute by offering students Enrichment classes in dance, drama, music and visual arts. This year the school is preparing to perform The Wiz. In preparation, the school will transform its hallways to reflect the land of imagination from the Emerald City to cornfields hiding the whereabouts of the Scarecrow. LTN has indeed raised the bar for school performance on its quest to become a fully recognized Performing Arts Institute on the elementary level. Love T. Nolan has taken the initiative to go beyond what’s expected of a regular school day and began the process of becoming an educational institute preparing to set trends and raise the bar in education through hard work and dedication. There are also opportunities for community partnerships through mentoring, fundraising, and event participation for business and community leaders. We salute Principal Evon Hewitt and his staff on the strides of becoming Trendsetters making a stance in the State of Georgia. ▄
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What’s What’s Your Your Specialty? Specialty? have a client, a serial entrepreneur, who recently established an apparel company that sells specialty Tshirts. I have a number of other clients that sell specialty T-shirts, as well. All of the businesses are successful. How can all of them compete and be successful? The answer is that while there are many T-shirt lines, what makes each “commodity” unique is the business owner who puts his or her mark on the line being sold – the markets they appeal to and the particular specialty T-shirts they have decided to sell. I have another client that is a fitness trainer with her own studio. She provides a boot camp, extra classes, individual training, nutritional supplements, and sports apparel. There is an LA Fitness not far from her studio, and a weight lifting facility close by. Yet each of her three camp sessions are filled to capacity each day. Again, with such stiff competition, what makes her business successful? First, she has her own take on how fitness should be approached. Her philosophy that “Fitness Start From Within ®” is her registered trademark! And, as a Registered Nurse, she has the credentials to help each client lead a healthier life. She provides a unique solution to fitness and her repeat business is impressive. In fact, she has had many of the same clients for nine years. In my own case, there are many, many lawyers in metro Atlanta. My specialty is small to midsize businesses. I assist business owners to establish for-profit companies as well as not-forprofit organizations. I assist business owners to design and develop business processes, as well as to define a target audience for their product or services, create, define and build brands to attract the target audience, and to implement strategies that will help the businesses grow. Despite the competition, I have been doing business successfully for seven (7) years. I say all this to point out that almost every business faces stiff competition. Customers choose the type of personal trainer they want, or the specialty T-shirt line they want; clients choose the attorney they want. A business may not be able to please everyone, and it may be foolish to try. Rather, hone your specialty to stand out from the competition, and give those that like to choose, choices. To capitalize on your uniqueness, position yourself as a Subject Matter Expert (SME). A Subject Matter Expert is an individual with a deep understanding of a particular process, function, technology, machine, material, or type of equipment. My serial entrepreneur sells T-shirts geared to entrepreneurs, with graphics and statements that attract entrepreneurs like her. As a serial entrepreneur, she is an SME in entrepreneurship and has a deep understanding of the entrepreneur’s psyche. She has a feel for what will attract fellow entrepreneurs. As an attorney that focuses on small business concerns, I have more than 20 years’ experience building businesses and brands, and protecting and growing them. I used to be a “Generalist.” I tried to please everyone. I came to realize I didn’t want to be “all things to all people.” I wanted to focus on small business, so I carved out a niche. I became a Subject Matter Expert
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in corporate formation. Although I offer advice in other areas of law - estate planning, copyright and trademark and litigation, but each of these is an enhancement to the core business planning services I provide corporate clients. I can protect their products and materials with my knowledge of copyright and trademark law. I can defend them in litigation. I can pursue those who owe them unpaid debts. I can help them plan for their future and the future of their business through my knowledge of estate planning. I have proven to my clients that I am their “go to” lawyer for all business-related issues. I now promote my SME status to prospective clients, and have let go of business that is not my core. I am their go to attorney even when they need a specialist in an area of law that I don’t practice. I have an extensive list of proven legal specialists to whom I can refer them, and I can help them understand how the specialist will work with them. . Find your passion. Decide what your specialty will be and become a Subject Matter Expert. Research, research, and do more research. Know the past and the present related to your specialty. Identify trends, and then imagine what the future will be. Network with recognized experts. When you have something of interest to share, speak at events. Become the expert who will be invaluable to customers or clients. Develop a profile of your ideal clients, and then identify them. Develop a unique marketing message that tells your ideal clients exactly why they should choose you, your services, or your products. Execute your strategy flawlessly so that you can dominate your target market and attract the best clients. Put yourself out there. Show off your expertise. Grow your business and prosper. ▄
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By Monica A. Teasley, Esq.
Breast Cancer…NOT just a Woman’s Disease Beverly Hill (Shelley) Commentary Vol. 3
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reast cancer has always been touted as a woman’s disease, but this is far from the truth. Males and females have breast cells and tissue, but the difference is men don’t develop milk-producing breast. Their breasts are like that of a girl before puberty. The mortality rate for men is higher than with women because if he feels a lump in his breast area, he is less likely to associate it with cancer. He may never even notice a lump at all. A few of the risk factors for developing breast cancer are, breast cancer in a close female relative, a history of radiation exposure of the chest, severe liver disease, taking estrogen, diseases of the testicles such as mumps orchitis, a testicular injury, or by having an undescended testicle. Mumps orchitis is caused by a bacteria or virus, which may affect one or both testicles and is often associated with the mumps virus. An undescended testicle is one that hasn’t moved into the bag of skin below the penis before birth. By the time a boy is 9 months old most of the time his testicles have descended. An undescended testicle is more likely to develop cancer and it may also develop in the other testicle.
Richard Roundtree (actor) is best known for his lead role as John Shaft in the 1971 move Shaft. He was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993. He was 51 years old with no family history of the disease. Roundtree was shooting a film in Costa Rica when he discovered a lump while taking a shower. After visiting his physician to have the lump checked, a fine needle aspiration was ordered. A fine needle aspiration is a type of biopsy procedure. Three days after this procedure, he received the dreaded news…it was cancer. Roundtree could not believe that this could be true, but he soon learned that breast cancer is not determined by gender. He underwent a modified radical mastectomy followed by six months of chemotherapy. His mastectomy left him with a per-
manent scar that runs from where his left nipple used to be to back underneath his armpit. Many men have reported that they never really get used to having a scar.
Saul B. Jenkins Jr. (Nashville, Tennessee), was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 at the age of 59. As he was going outside of his home, the door hit his chest in the nipple area causing discomfort. He forgot about it for a week or two. But he noticed that when he rubbed his chest, it would hurt. After a month, he decided to see a doctor. On the first day of his visit, the doctor ordered a mammogram, which revealed that something was wrong. On that same day he received a fine needle aspiration…it showed a positive result. A biopsy was immediately ordered. The diagnosis of breast cancer was then concretely verified. Saul’s first thought was how does a man get breast cancer? This is the first response from most men. Saul says, “After the surgery, I felt like I was half a man.” While sitting in the oncologist’s office waiting room, he saw an oncologist magazine that had Richard Roundtree on the cover. Upon reading his story Saul learned that he and Roundtree had the same scar and they even had the same treatment regimen. The article helped Saul realize that he was not the only man that had this dreaded so-called woman’s disease! Saul says while laughing, “After I thought about it, I didn't need it anyway. I can't feed no baby!” He continues, “The scar doesn't embarrass me, but I don't pull my shirt off and advertise it either. My treatment was four months of chemo, six months of radiation and five years of pills.” Saul has been cancer free for 10 years. His advice is, “Now that this has happened to me, I know to tell other men to check themselves just like women do because it can happen to anybody.”
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cancer in 2000 at age 34. He had no previous illnesses or hospitalizations of any sort…until breast cancer. His immediate concerns were that he would not see his boys grow up. One day while looking at an old honeymoon picture taken on the beach, Eric noticed what great shape he was in…six pack, abs, everything! Fast forward, after a few years of marriage he had gotten a little sedentary. That honeymoon picture inspired him to get back into shape. He wanted to look like he did from years previous, so he began exercising again. On one occasion while exercising in his basement, after completing about a hundred push-ups, he began having excruciating pain in his chest. The pain immobilized him; he could not get up. He called for his wife to assist him. The pain was even more excruciating upon standing. He touched his chest, and for the first time he noticed a lump! Concerned, Eric immediately scheduled an appointment to see his primary care physician the next morning. The pain was not something to be ignored. His physician explained that his workouts were so intense that it caused his chest muscle to expand. The muscle pressed against the tumor causing it to press against the nerve. The pressure is why he felt the pain. Most people don’t have any warnings of discomfort. Eric says without the pain he never would have gone to a doctor. His primary care physician did an initial examination and thought the lump might be a cyst that just needed to be drained, but the mass was too hard. He immediately referred Eric to a surgical oncologist for a fine needle aspiration. He noticed that his doctor wrote on the referral, ‘see him immediately’. He sensed the urgency because his mother had seen an oncologist four years prior receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. After his visit with the oncologist, three days later he was given the grim news, ‘you have cancer’. Eric recalls, “I'm looking at this doctor, and in my mind I'm thinking this must be a mistake. This can't be… I'm a man!” Even though his mother was diagnosed, he never thought he would be at risk. His grandmother and mother both had been diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 55. He remembers talking to his sister with concern for her because their grandmother had died of breast cancer in 1974. He recalls, “I was in fear of my sister possibly getting breast cancer, but I'm
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the one that ended up with the diagnosis.” Eric’s fear was that he would have the same scar that Richard Roundtree had. A blessing happened; he was fortunate to get a world-renowned plastic surgeon that was at the same hospital as his surgical oncologist. Eric expressed his concerns and was assured that he would be able to swim with his kids without feeling ostracized by having a scar. The plastic surgeon and the surgical oncologist procedures were done simultaneously. A radical mastectomy was performed because the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes. The plastic surgery was performed in such a way that you could see no scarring at the reconstruction site. His treatment was six months of chemotherapy, no radiation. During this time, Eric’s wife exhibited unconditional love giving total care to him while still caring for their young children and their household. His mother- in-law also stepped in and was a tremendous support. Eric lectures at different universities that have cancer programs and most recently spoke at the CDC. He is very adamant about getting the word out to men about breast cancer. He says, “The goal is to not only educate men that could potentially have breast cancer but to also educate the physicians. Men don’t divulge a lot of information nor do we go to the doctor with the frequency that women do. We get a physical that basically encompasses a prostate exam, checking your heart, your urine and scheduling a colonoscopy, but no breast exam.” He continues, “Physicians must go a little further. That's why the goal is to also educate them so they will probe a little deeper. Even though there may not be a lump felt, men you still need to do breast checks…and please check your family history. A man can get a mammogram, but his insurance company won't pay for it. I'm trying to expose companies that are not paying for them. With a breast cancer diagnosis, the mammogram is paid for. If there has been a family diagnosis or history, routine mammograms for men should be covered.” From the beginning Eric never wanted to hear a prognosis. He only wanted to hear positive words and think positive thoughts because he knew that he was going to beat breast cancer. Lovingly Eric states, “I was selected and ordained to be the father of my two boys. I didn’t want anybody else being in that position. I feel like God was telling me that I'm going to bless you with your healing so you can bless others with your message!” Eric Dunlap has been cancer free for 17 years. According to the CDC’s most recent statistics in 2014 for the United States, of the 2,141 men diagnosed with breast cancer, 465 died from the disease! Early detection is of utmost importance. Check yourself and ask your doctor to include breast examinations in your yearly physicals. If you feel any kind of lump, no matter how small, get it checked. Waiting could result in bleeding nipples, which may mean that the cancer has metastasized. Remember, breast cancer is NOT just a woman’s disease.▄
American Cancer Society 800-227-2345
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Eric Dunlap (Atlanta, Georgia) was diagnosed with breast
PINKTOBER: Think When You See Pink By Camela L. Douglass, M.S. ED.
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ink is for girls and blue is for boys.” This is one of the first of many color rules that a child adopts and follows their entire life. The color pink represents compassion, nurturing and unconditional love. Now, the color pink has taken on a whole new meaning across the globe, sparking elements of change and influencing individuals to “check themselves.” Pink is the new white—at least in October. Internationally, breast cancer survivors and supporters, non-profit organizations, and businesses have bought into the concept of PINKTOBER. When you see pink, you should think breast cancer awareness. Since 1985, October has been Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM). Founded as a partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries, the aim has been to promote mammograms and self-checks as weapons to fight breast cancer. In 1991, the Susan G. Komen Foundation passed out pink ribbons to breast cancer survivors in its New York City race and in 1993, Evelyn Lauder, Vice President of the Estee Lauder Companies founded The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and established the pink ribbon as the symbol. Pinktober has literally been a game changer in the fight against breast cancer. The NFL launched “A Crucial Catch” campaign in which all 32 teams will feature players, coaches, and referees wearing pink game apparel as well as additional branding throughout their stadiums. However, don’t get caught up in the propaganda of the pink. Many campaigns bring more profit than awareness and cures. This is why it is imperative to educate yourself on the causes, symptoms, and treatments for breast cancer. Avoid being taken by companies that not only profit from the epidemic but also contribute to its cause. It’s easy to see pink and become aware, however, what happens when the pink goes away? As an individual, you must be proactive during the other 11 months through education and prevention so that you won’t become a statistic. We are in a daily fight to stay healthy. The challenge is to prevent what’s within your control and prepare for what’s not. There is no food or diet that can prevent breast cancer, however, diet and food can build your immune system, prepare your body for a fight and can keep cancer cell growth to a minimum. Prevention foods include: Flaxseed, Brazil Nuts, Garlic, Pomegranate, Dark-green leafy vegetables, Salmon, Broccoli, Green Tea, Peppers, Turmeric, Walnuts, Berries, Legumes, and Whole Grains. Stay away from: alcohol, refined carbohydrates, candies, cakes, chips, soda, red meats, and foods that contain saturated and trans-fats. Also, be sure to incorporate regular exercise as a form of prevention. Studies show that women who exercise have a 30% to 40% lower risk of breast cancer than their sedentary peers. ▄
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Camela L. Douglass, M.S. ED. is a professional trainer and educator in Columbus, Ohio. She is the C.E.O. of Mo Better Me and travels internationally to promote healthy lifestyles.
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THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY Can Anybody Hear Me: Silent Cries and Mute Laughter Written By Shernita Wiggins—Wynder
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s the dark panels lifted on the stage and a stunningly beautiful familiar face came out of the shadows amidst the earth shattering applauds erupting all over the Oprah Winfrey studios, the smile we'd longed to see lit up the stage as brightly as sparkling crystal beads that lined the platform...and then it happened! The anticipation for the most melodic tones of our time broke through the applauds and that voice...THE VOICE bellowed these words:
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Lost touch with my soul, I had no where to turn, I had no where to go, Lost sight of my dream, Thought it would be the end of me, I thought I'd never make it through, I had no hope to hold on to, I thought I would break, I didn't know my own strength, And I crashed down, and I tumbled But I did not crumble, I got through all the pain, I didn't know my own strength, Survived my darkest hour, My faith kept me alive, I picked myself back up, Hold my head up high, I was not built to break, I didn't know my own strength. Found hope in my heart, I found the light to life, My way out the dark, Found all that I need here inside of me I thought I'd never find my way, I thought I'd never lift that weight, I thought I would break...
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TVOne’s Bobbi Kristina
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as well as explores her fight to be seen, heard, loved and to survive." This biopic is filled with a seasoned cast of veterans: Vivica A. Fox as Pat Houston (Empire, Kill Bill), Demetria McKinney as Whitney Houston (House of Payne, Saints and Sinners), and Hassan Johnson as Bobby Brown (The Wire, E.R.) and newcomers, like the lead actress of whom the title of the film is bestowed, Joy Rovaris as Bobbi Kristina (Stuck in the Middle, The New Edition Story), Nadji Jeter as Nick Gordon (Grown Ups, Last Man Standing), Le’Azionna Braden as young Bobbi Kristina. This epic film will air on Sunday, October 8, 2017 on TV ONE Network at 7/6c. You don't want to miss watching the story that the public missed behind the scenes as told by Krissy's close friends and family. Whitney's love of her life, and Bobby's namesake. After talking with the cast of this film, I realized that this moment was waiting on me too. I’ve been a huge fan of Ms. Houston ever since she came on the scene in the late 80's during my high school senior days. Learning that we shared a birth date of August 9th and painstakingly learning about Krissy being found on the day of my daughter's birthday...January 31st, just seemed like the stars aligned for me to be one of the chosen to introduce this biopic to the world and I am not alone when it comes to being selected to share in the responsibility for telling the story behind the story. In an in-depth interview with a few of the main characters, Joy, Demetria, and Hassan...feel that same passion and brought their "A" game to the set on day one. Read as each of them tell about their character and how they felt the spirits of our two beautiful souls from beyond the grave channeled their energy to help them tell the story that many missed but seemed not to care and many heard and dared not see. ▄
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As she continued through the song with just as much fervor as she did for decades, the iconic Whitney Houston reminded us why she was dubbed the Queen of Pop and an R&B phenom. But who was Whitney really? What made her stand out from the countless others of her time and those who came after her? Was she really all about the glitz and glam? What was her drive...her passion? One person described her in these words, Mom was a very special person. Not many people I know who could walk into a room and the whole room just stop.-Bobbi Kristina Was she just saying this because she was her daughter? Or did Whitney really have that kind of essence that was able to light up the room and all would take note. What do we attribute that to? When Oprah Winfrey asked this question in a 2009 interview in the wake of a new coming out album surfaced, "Who do you love?" Her response with the most unquestionable excitement was simply this, The Lord! I do! I'm so humbled and thankful of His grace and goodness and for never giving up on me...--Whitney Houston We know all about how her vibrant and fruitful life stopped short of its time. WE KNOW all about how much she contributed to the music industry...and eventually to the film sectors. We even knew that she loved her family and that her best friend was her only child, Bobbi Kristina Brown. A child labeled as Whitney and Bobby's daughter. Shadowed under the legacies of her famous and exemplary parents. Singing for God, I was so sure. When I became Whitney Houston and all of the other stuff happened, my life became the world's...subjecting my daughter to scrutiny...she didn't ask for that...--Whitney So—if Bobby Kristina or "Krissy" as her family and friends called her, didn't ask for the fame and fortune bestowed upon her...why was she punished for having it in the public's eyes as if she owed us anything following the death of her Mother and Angel, Ms. Houston? The questions you seek are near and at hand. There were many voids left after that tragic event and even more followed when her daughter followed suit, eerily in the same fashion a few years later. TV ONE's Cathy Hughes' Network has positioned itself to tell the story that was yet to be told. According to the TV ONE Network, "Bobbi Kristina is a made-for-TV biopic inspired by the life of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown's only child, Bobbi Kristina Brown, who grew up in the shadow of her superstar parents' spotlight. This film offers an intimate look at the highs and lows of parental, familial and romantic love complicated by fame through the eyes of a sensitive, vulnerable young woman. Bobbi Kristina’s high-profile life – and untimely death – may have been shrouded in mystery, but this film reveals her humor, quirks, deepest fears and longings,
If I'd had a mother that was just a mother and not an entertainer. I don't think I'd be here. I'm from her! --Krissy
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Joy Rovaris
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Bobbi Kristina Actor: Joy Rovaris oy Rovaris was on the set of another project when she got the news she'd been anxiously awaiting. When she dropped to her knees, Joy's team asked if she was okay and if she'd got the part after she'd explained the reason behind her rubbery extremities. "Yeah! I got it!" She excitedly proclaimed. So how did this young actress prepare for a role as sensitive and yet spirited as this one? I've always been a Whitney Houston fan; my mom loves her and I grew up listening to Whitney Houston. I knew about Krissy, but I didn't know everything about her, so for the audition process I watched and read everything that Krissy appeared on, and I studied all of her quotes and interviews. When I really thought I'd gotten a good sense of who she was, then I really wanted to get into how I would react if I would lose my mom. I was really interested in Bobby and Whitney and how they would react to one another. Because that's who Krissy knew her whole life. Then I looked at Bobby and Whitney as if they were my mom and dad and then I would look at how others who knew her would react with her. I would study how she would respond to those people and how she would get upset. And as soon as I got to Atlanta I talked to everyone I could that knew Krissy and that gave me another insight into who she was. In preparing for this article, I did the same thing, and one thing I found consistent and over and over again about Bobbi Kristina, or Krissy...was that she was very confident in what she vocalized. In an interview with Oprah in 2012 she said, She wasn't only a mother, she was a best friend. She was a sister, a comforter. She was...just the spirit that she had. No matter what she said to anyone, she touched everyone. Some would consider the manner in which Bobbi Kristina's young 22-year-old life ended in the same manner as her famous mother, that maybe the bond continued from beyond the grave. In her own words in that same interview she stated, I can hear her voice stating and talking to me telling me, 'Keep moving baby.' You know? 'I'm right here, I gotchu.'...She's always with me, I can always feel her... When I asked Joy how was she able to deal with the obvious emotional roller coaster of getting into character every day, to tell the story of a young lady who lived her life under the microscope of the world, and what was it like, she explained, It was like flipping a light on. When I got back to my hotel I had to focus on finding my grey area because I was so Krissy throughout the day. And Demetria was amazing. She looked so much like Whitney. So, when I would be with Demetria, for me, it was like giving Krissy a chance to be with her Mom again. It was just a couple of minutes with her favorite person in the world, so the emotion that happened, (I'm getting emotional right now) would just come all over me. I was anxious to find out how Joy managed with so many other talented castmates. Which is why I asked and she was eager
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to applaud each of them and reveal some intimate moments on the set. I think everyone is amazing! I can tell you we are all like family. I've never been part of a process that grew so instant and so strong. I think for everyone, it was a passion project. Demetria loved Whitney and like myself it was a responsibility to show her to the world. Nadji and I connected in his role as Nick. Hassan was really great as Bobby, when I first looked at him, I was like 'Oh Snap! He's bad!' Everybody was just great, the director included. We all had this awesome vibe, we spent weekends together every minute we were not shooting...we were together. And for me, you know I grew up across from Vivica and we were riding on the way to work and I said, 'Oh snap, I'm in the wrong vehicle.' And Ms. Vivica said, 'Girl you act just like Krissy, you got to joke about everything!' We'd get on set and she was just this dynamic powerhouse, very well put together. And she would tell everybody, 'This is my baby. When I was with Najee, she'd say, 'These my babies.' From day one. What does Joy want you to take away with watching the film? Clearly, one would think the obvious...see them through the eyes of God. But we aren't Him, are we? No, we are a generation of people who most times thrive off of selfishness, rather than selflessness. However, it was refreshing to hear this young lady say, Well, when I got the part, I felt like this was a huge responsibility to show the world who Krissy really was aside from the tabloids and the jargon. I really feel like Krissy felt, 'No one got to know the real me.' This was my chance to show the world how fun and hilarious she was. She was vulnerable, heartbroken, I think the movie shows why a lot of situations were made. I think Krissy's message was, 'You are enough.' For every girl or boy, you don't have to have the world's approval of who you are. Know what? I am worth it...Know what? I am bold enough. And my message is that, I hope they'd take away that it shed light on relationships and the people who feel dependent on toxic situations. And to look at Bobby and Whitney and stop downing them but look at them as if they were everyday people. After a film like this, I was curious to know what Miss Joy Rovaris wanted to pursue, now that her career was about to take a shift. In a most humbling way she said, I love complex characters. Playing the role of Krissy was like a gold mine. She was so complex, yet so misunderstood. I love playing the underdog. I love playing characters that are very different from myself. Something about shedding a light on those uncut and unexposed personalities, I'm finding that's my thing. It was such a blessing to play such an important part, so hopefully I can do more. â–„ How can you keep up with what actress Joy Rovaris is up to next? Go to her Instagram/Twitter @joyrovaris and Snap Chat @secondsofjoy social sites.
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Written by: Shernita Wiggins-Wynder
Whitney Houston Actor: Demetria McKinney Written by: Shernita Wiggins-Wynder
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ho can take on the role of such an iconic and revered person like the talented and gifted phenom, Whitney Houston? She would have to be someone chosen specifically for this part. Someone who could tap into the inner most being. Well, the actress that got this opportunity couldn't have been more perfect if Ms. Houston had chosen her herself...or did she? As a recording artist, this is where the most truthful, transparent side of me will be seen and heard, Demetria says. 'People mostly know me for the roles I have played, and they are all roles that I chose specifically for the lessons that I would learn from each character. Personally, I never wanted to show vulnerability because I thought it was a sign of weakness. I didn’t want to talk about situations I’ve endured and I would shut off opportunities that would make me connect with any past pain. I always hid behind my characters, and allowed them to overshadow Demetria. But the reason I call this LP ‘Officially Yours’ is because the music represents the ‘official’ Demetria McKinney. Actress, singer, and mother of an 18-year-old...I'd say, she was a great fit. At least from the experience side of things. So how did Demetria step up to the plate to prepare for such a grand responsibility? Coming into this, I had been watching and listening to Living Vibe with Whitney Houston. Her music was always what kinda got me through those hard times. I wrote about that and with makeup, I tried to push to the back of my mind and hide behind my characters. Just a little bit before that, maybe the new-year, I have been a little bit more vocal about the situations that I have been in and it's been very therapeutic. Not only that, I realize that things that happen to you-- are not just for you, but for people coming after you, or people who may be needing the same help. So in preparing for this, I tried my best to research and to remember to forget, and forget all the information people had said about her. I wanted to forget all the tabloids and focus on the people involved especially, Ms. Bobbi Kristina and Ms. Whitney Houston. Now, God is so amazing, let's talk about my director. There were some moments that I said, 'Yeah, in order to get what I need to get, I have to go some places I don't wanna be.' And I didn't want to, and he could see it. He would say, 'I need you there for 5 seconds. You got it!' …you know, whatever. But going back in those dark moments in those dark spaces is kinda what gave me a little more preparation for her. There really is no way to get prepared for her. I mean she is Whitney Houston and it will never be that again, that's it...done. So all I really wanted to do was give the audience a glimpse into her humanity, her beauty, her spirit, her passion and her space. I think my turbulence kinda prepared me more to deal with the character that I realized that we didn't get a chance to see. But I'm thankful now that I got the opportunity, because this story shows that we are not alone in our triumphs or our tragedies. And the less we judge, the more the opportunity to feel. So how does one REALLY prepare for playing the part of Whitney Houston? Demetria shared with me that she had to go into some
dark alleyways of her past to pull out emotions that she needed to share the multi-layered life of Whitney Houston. I was curious also, if anything in Demetria's life had prepared her for this role? Absolutely, if I hadn't been through, my situation, if I hadn't been through my homelessness, if I hadn't been through my responsibility setting; I don't know. Two weeks later, however, I'm up at 4 o'clock in the morning literally balling my eyes out wondering what have I gotten myself into. Cause remember, I never wanted to go there, I never had to go there before in order to get the emotion that I needed for a character. It was never that real for me. Not to take away from anything else that I've done, but when you are playing somebody everyone knows it's a lot different from making up the story as you go. In the back of your mind, you might say, she's got a lisp. The reason that her tongue does this, is because she's nervous. But I had to go to the script with this project and that's the only way that I can do that to be as real as possible. To every great film...is recognizably understood to have proficient writers, technical crew, and creative talent. This is a must and according to this cast, they had it locked. It was incredible! Everybody pulled their own weight. Something this heavy, something you're so responsible for and has to be handled with such sensitivity you want make sure you're able to give your all. In order to do that you can't really take the time to pull anybody full throttle. We were definitely there for each other. We got to support each other, but not one time did anyone have to say, 'Let me go in here and pull out more emotion. To teach them how to compensate.' Sometimes everybody has an off day, I can honestly say I felt like we all came in with our "A"game! We all came in with an attachment and the drive we were supposed to have. Like I said, Whitney and Krissy were there baby! You cannot tell me they were not, it was that powerful! There is a scene, and I don't want to give too much away. But when you look at that infinite love, of that Trio of Bobby, Kris, and Whitney Houston and you see the love and the happiness. You understand a little bit better why in those moments of turmoil, you could not break them apart. NO matter what people said, you couldn't break them apart. They were together through the good, the bad, and the ugly. That's exactly what this cast chose to do. Whether it was a lot to feel and when you got back in that evening and could not shake it off...it was still powerful! Then there is a bond that we'll never get rid of, formed from this union. After all of the light that was shed about the making of this film, I had to know what did Demetria want the audience to take away from watching it. There must be some
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anticipation and expectations and her responses again blew me away. A real eye-opener. I want them to understand that life happens to us all. We are all human. I don't think that as an icon, you say that I was just guilty of the mess that I am in and leave it at that... (I understood this to mean that WE as the public must bear a certain amount of responsibility to those in the public eye sharing their gifts...and I was right) ...I was guilty of not letting Whitney be her. I never knew about Whitney. I never knew about what happened behind the curtain. It wasn't necessarily my business, but I think that's the biggest tragedy. WE didn't get to understand the love, everybody was so focused on judging the actions, that they weren't paying attention to the whole picture and if they had, then they got to see the whole thing and that was Whitney Houston and Krissy as real people with real struggles. I want them to take away that this story is a love story. A love of a mother to a daughter, a daughter to a mother, a daughter to a daughter, a woman to a man. It's all centered around love whether we want to admit it or not. There are a lot of us in the community that can relate to what they went through. Try to find out what you can relate to. And we can have this opportunity to take this story and this tragedy and make beautiful flowers. We'll be able to have those conversations that are hard and find those things within us, so that we can face those demons--or celebrate those triumphs. â–„
Demetria McKinney I like my jeans and T-shirts and tennis. That was my dress up and entertainment...-- Whitney
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You can keep up with Demetria on Facebook: www.facebook.com/demetria4real/ and her website: https://www.demetriamckinney.com/ and Twitter @demimckinney
Bobby Brown Actor: Hassan Johnson Written by: Shernita Wiggins-Wynder
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Hassan Johnson
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n a 20/20 interview with Good Morning America's Robin Roberts in 2016, the "Bad Boy" of R&B, Bobby Brown shared his emotional story of how eerily similar the death of his daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown's death was to his ex-wife, the iconic and beautifully talented, Whitney Houston. Speculation pointed to Whitney's adopted son, Nick Gordon, Krissy's estranged husband. Bobby broke down and said if he could have the two days before her death back, he believes she would still be here. She was scheduled to move out to L.A. to live with her father. Bobby had been out of the lime-light for years now and tabloids had a field day with him and his relationship with Whitney Houston and their 15year marriage. However, in this film, we get to see another side of Bobby, Whitney, and Krissy. Actor, Hassan Johnson shares his views about the movie, Bobbi Kristina. Could we have labeled him wrongfully? Were we blinded by the repeated drug use and outbursts that the paparazzi caught endlessly on camera? Have we missed an opportunity to see a couple who loved music...by looking on the outside, and NOT looking within? Hassan seems to believe so, not because he plays his character in the upcoming film, Bobbi Kristina, but because he knows Bobby Brown personally and he received an opportunity to share the Bobby we didn't know behind the curtain on a different stage...his life as viewed by those close and dear to all three of them. When I asked Hassan how was this film different or similar to other projects he'd done, he shared this thought. Similar, in my past roles because there are so many layers to characters that I have played that people got into with and--or get to know. Similar in the 380-dimensional layers of life, the highs and the lows. People from the outside looking in, thinking its peaches and cream, because maybe you just put your game and poker face on and wear it so well that they just don't understand what goes on behind closed doors. And then there's the part that you could just never relate to because you're not those people and that's when you have to find things within yourself to be able to relate, like
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is...Wow--extraordinary in my eyes, if I have never expressed that before. So, what's the message you want to send to the people, Hassan? Watch with an open mind. Not with so much judgment. Just be willing to have an open mind to appreciate the film. It's such a regular story that we can relate and everyone will be pleased with it and I know it will be fine. Hassan and the cast interviewed made it known that even though each of them had mad respect and love for each of these individuals before this film...that GREW, after getting insight after doing the film. It's no wonder that it’s already been deemed a must see, because of the comradery of the cast and crew. Demetria shared the same sentiments in her reasoning for watching the film in this way, There was a moment in the movie "A Time to Kill when Matthew McConaughey told the jury the story about what happened to the little black girl who was raped by white men in gruesome detail and then at the end, he told them to imagine she was white. That was a powerful concept. I want the audience to imagine if Whitney, Bobby, and Krissy were someone you knew and then with a sincere heart, listen to this story from the mindset; this could be someone you knew and loved, and see that--they are people just as human and loveable as we are. ▄ Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine is honored to be a part of the process to share a behind the scene look into the creation of such a great piece of work. Be sure to tune in Sunday, October 8th at 7/6c to this film produced by Swirl Films for TV ONE with executive producers Tracey BakerSimmons, Wanda Shelley, and Swirl Films’ Eric Tomosunas. There's a saying, "You see the glory, but you don't know the story...behind it." We have to understand that there are some in the public eyes, who we see...but never seem to truly HEAR them because we tend to mute them out with our idea of them. Makes me wonder, how many more are silently crying because using their gifts have made them so obsolete that even when they laugh, we still mute them. I'll end it with some love from the cast to TV ONE and the Houston Family. We want to thank TV ONE and the Houston family for bringing this type of story to the forefront. Doing the research to make sure all of the edits are perfect and involving all the parties that needed to be involved. This is family and love and we wanted to treat it as such. Kudos to TV One You are Amazing! --Demetria, Hassan, and Joy
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Demetria said about fictitious characters; you make these things up as you go. But when it comes to playing iconic personalities, like a Whitney and a Bobby, you gotta stick to the script, there's no comparison or anything. That goes all out the window. So that tug of war within yourself...who do you pull from the most to get what you're looking for? Then what everyone else might do as well, because it is not all about you when you're in the creative process at the same time. Hassan made it clear how he managed to channel the traits of Bobby in the character, and what he did to separate himself at the end of the day. Fortunately, Bobby and I got a chance to spend some time together at one time or another or reason and I did get to learn some things about him that you know, that I was taken aback by. First of all, how resourceful he could really be. I think we get caught up with the press and the media and we get the little rah-rah and my prerogative swag. But Bobby is just a laid back, resourceful and reserved type of fella. At the end of it all, I guess he's like the chameleon, in presenting what he wants the public to see and who he really is. I feel that in some kind of way it can be like that kiss and that curse. But it's just that fearlessness that comes along with your personality that hype, and some people don't know how to take to that. They get intimidated by that fearlessness. On that respect, I know how a guy can have that dark life or struggled past. I know, I have a daughter and there is that detachment that comes along with being a father and you know you're in the lime-light and people don't even know the real you. And that struggle on how much to love and not to run people away from you. So, when you think a person is your friend, but when you get closer to them, its visa-versa. We got a lot of that in common. My daughter is 20 years old and a college student and she just wrote me a letter that was very contrary to how I thought our relationship has been in the last year. That's kinda ironic right now that sometimes you have to separate...because that's just what you have to do and sometimes you become so consumed. There's similarities and parallels to each of our lives. Remember, we're all individuals and we're all linked together in one way or another. I think fortunately, knowing Bobby enough gave me the gall to be able to take on the responsibility, and then have the ability and the discipline to tell his story. I know one day, I didn't speak to Bobby going into the building on set and I know damn well he didn't have nothing bad to say. I think being in the presence of talent like Demetria, Joy and the other cast, I feel great and honored that I was able to star and be in the ring with them at the same time. Because what they bring to the table,
The Profound Story of
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hen perceived trials or tribulations come as they will, do you have the courage to transform as Gwen Mason has done? Gwen was diagnosed with breast cancer November 2016, initially in her left breast and then it was found in her right breast. Now, I am sure most of you would find this to be quite alarming but not Gwen! She shares her compelling story by first recognizing that God is the master orchestrator and no matter the situation or circumstance, He will and has always seen her through. She continues with God is not a doer of evil; however, He can turn an evil initiative into a grand victory for His children. As she joyfully shared of God’s goodness, she peaked my attention by stating, “You see, God had a purpose for my fat”. She went on to share earlier in the year of her diagnosis (pre-diagnosis), she was complaining that her stomach had begun to sit in her lap. Come on people, you know what she means. There is extra in the belly area. She leaned forward and said, “God cares about your smallest concerns, don’t you know that He is certainly adamant about caring for your big ones. The word says to cast your
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Courage to Transform
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one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell”. Based on that word, she chose to have the bilateral mastectomy. Yes, that is a hard decision for many; however, for Gwen it was a TRUTH decision. Now, watch how God showed up and showed out in Gwen’s faith walk. The procedure that was offered to her for reconstruction of her breast involved taking the fat from her abdomen and constructing it as her new breast. She was elated that she did not have to have a foreign object in her body, simply the transformation of fat to another place on her body. Hence, HER FAT had Purpose! Here is the kicker to all of this, Gwen walked in the glorious admiration of God and did NOT undergo any radiation or chemotherapy. She is a living testimony that it is all in the Journey; it is a FAITH walk. She told me that, we all have our crosses to bare. We do not choose them and once they are given to us, that it is then about the journey. Do we carry it with fear, anxiety and hopelessness? Or, do we carry it with our head held high knowing that God is going to bring us to victory in it all. Do you have the courage to transform? ▄
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cares on Him, because He cares for you”. I was amazed by her level of faith and eagerly awaited more. She began to share the unfolding of her faith walk: Two weeks prior to her diagnoses, she was in her prayer time and she could not get up without sharing the following: God I may not understand, but I trust you. This was the routine for the next two weeks, then once she received, the words that excessively many are hearing today, “You have breast cancer” she immediately said you are right Father God I don’t understand but I trust you. Then after enduring further tests and it was found in her right breast, those same words leaped from her vocal cords, Father God I do not understand but I trust you. She then began to give me an English lesson by saying you know that word “but” allows one to totally negate everything that was said prior to the “but”. In other words, all that mattered was, I TRUST GOD. As she continued, she articulated the path of making the excruciating decision of undergoing a bilateral mastectomy. Now here is the comforting moment of all of this, once she concluded I could feel the peace that consumed the atmosphere through her shear love and admiration for the word of God. She began to share that after undergoing many test and gathering all the results it was time for her to make the decision of how she would proceed. She said, “In Matthew 5:29-30, if your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose
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Hank Stewart’s 16th Annual White Linen Affair Repeats Perfection Written By: Lillian B. Young, Editor and Chief
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hile wearing white after Labor Day may not be trendy, The Annual White Linen Affair trends on. Catering to hundreds of attendees, the 16th Annual Hank Stewart’s White Linen Affair remains all the rage. The attendees, entertainers, and vendors reinforced their belief and support in what the Foundation has done for the Community by pouring into the Marriott Century Center, Atlanta for what would be a remarkable three-day event. Folks came from all over to be entertained, educated and enlightened. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better than years past, you were mesmerized by a captivating agenda and starstudded line-up. Rashan Ali and Sam Crenshaw, both national journalists helped Honorable Andrew J. Young Jr. helps to inspire the youths at the kick off the event Friday as the hosts to a Hank Stewart 16th Annual White Linen Affair fun-filled golf tournament. Attendees were later treated to a private VIP reception with Grammy R&B part of pictures, capture signed autographs and participate in Award winner, Tony Terry who surprised his guests by presentlive interviews. Even our very own, Publisher and CEO, Wiling to each, his soon to be released CD. The festivities continued lie Stewart imparted a few words about the event and why with the movie screening of “Skinned”, celebrating and honoring Trendsetters to Trendsetters has proudly supported the Foundathe late Tommy Ford. Gwen Mason, Executive Producer and tion and the event over the years. On the agenda was a fashion Director of the event, along with Hank Stewart, Founder made show hosted by Chef G. Garvin, but not just any show, this sure there was not just something for everyone, but something was a runway sensation. The models showed up and showed spectacular! The ladies were pampered with an amazing concert out representing the companies and brand for Lisa Nicole and hosted by none other than, Actor Brad James. James introduced Dwight Eubanks Collections. Sunday certainly gave you a Sua celebrity line up to include: “Diamond in the Rough” band, perbowl performance, with a bountiful jazz brunch hosted by Hadiya and Sandy Redd, topped off by National recording Artist Jazz extraordinaires, Joey Summerville, Marion Meadows and Ms. Angie Stone as the evening’s Headliner and celebrated Jazz surprise guest Cicely Mason. The selection and timing of this artist Norman Brown. But wait, it wasn’t over yet, for those who year’s honorees couldn’t have been more deserving and edifybrought their dancing shoes and for those who kicked off their ing, recognizing the hard work and commitment of Roland S. stilettos that complimented their stylish white attire, hit the floor Martin, African American Journalist, syndicated columnist, for an “Old Skool” dance party kicked off by DJ Lonnie Luv. author, commentator for TV one and host of News One Now, Early risers came with their free-spirited game face on for a Satsharing the spotlight with Judge Glenda Hatchett, star of forurday morning work-out. The workout was followed by, What mer court show Judge Hatchett and The Verdict, national they do and Why they do it! Simply put, the Youth White Linen CASA celebrity spokesperson and founding partner at the naleft you speechless with guest speakers, attorney Jarrett Adams tional law firm, The Hatchett Firm delighted the audience with and anchor and reporter, Deidra Dukes. As if the presence of their irrefutable and awe-inspiring intellect, candor and compoover 150 aspiring kids in attendance wasn’t enough food for the sure. Hats off to the entire White Linen Affair Team, Hank soul, the program itself, which recognized two courageous youth Stewart Foundation Supporters for yet another impressive peradvocates for their work, along with the distribution of gift cards, formance and special thanks to Photographers Joe Walker of door prizes and book bags bursting at the seams with school supPlexx Media and Lawrence Winder, Horizon Photography. ▄ plies made it ALL worthwhile and something to be exceptionally proud about. The event would not be complete without the illustrious “Red Carpet” which was hosted by JaQuitta Williams and Dr. Latangela Crossfield. Folks lined-up to take pictures, be a
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Hank Stewart with Trendsetters to Trendsetters Staff: Keina, Willie, Lillian, Shernita and Beverly
A No Nonsense talk with Derek Brown about “Cherish” Now We No! Men getting smart about women’s issues… Written by Carol Tucker
Carol: Awareness? What exactly are you making people aware of?
Derek: We are informing men and DEREK BROWN
women all over the world about the harmful effects that today’s sanitary napkins and tampons are having on women’s bodies. The campaign is the brainchild of our company’s founder and it goes along with our philosophy of being mission driven people. Through this mission we see that women have been suffering in silence. So as a man, I am now aware of what women are dealing with and now that we know it can no longer be taboo to talk about the subject.
Carol: I’m glad you brought that up
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n August I started to hear about a group of men traveling around the country talking about a special kind of Sanitary napkin. Now I know a lot of men think its taboo to talk about women’s issues but not these men. They were holding meetings and speaking about it with so much passion that I decided to catch up with the Ambassador of the company Mr. Derek Brown to find out what the fuss was all about.
Carol: Hello Mr. Brown, it’s a pleasure to speak with you and thank you for your time. You and a team have been traveling around the country with a product called Cherish? In short? Two questions: What is Cherish? And why are you so passionate about this product?
Derek: Cherish is a Premium Sanitary napkin, produced by
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Nspire. It’s an absolutely phenomenal product and known to be the most comfortable sanitary napkin in the world. I will get back to the details of the pad in a minute, but the reason that I am so excited is because of the awareness campaign that we are leading with. The “Now We No” campaign that’s spelled “NO.” You can go to nowweno.net to get more details on this awesome awareness campaign.
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because in my research, looking through videos, I see a lot of men talking about purchasing and joining the campaign. Why do you think so many men are drawn to the company?
Derek: It’s a man’s natural instinct to protect. We ask everyone this simple question. “Is there a woman in your life that you love and care about that if you received information that could possibly save her life or enhance it, would you share that information?” Now, we know this is a loaded question but it gets them thinking and we share the actual campaign with them at that point. We are committed to getting the word out in many ways. We are partnering with women’s organizations, awareness groups, we actually host 5k walks, we all wear the campaign tee-shirts, organize bike a thons, basketball tournaments and focus groups that can be any size from 10 people to 1000 or more. We’re putting it all out on the table. And we do all of this to bring awareness to a life-threatening issue. We not only have the awareness side but we also have the solution in “Cherish” premium pads.
Carol: And this is a campaign that everyone can take part in and why not? We are responsible for information that we know and everyone has a woman that they care about in their life whether it be their mother, daughter, significant other, cousin, niece etc. That’s awesome!
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Now you mentioned “Cherish” premium pads as the solution. Tell me how?
Derek: Cherish sanitary napkins are 8 layers deep. I will give you the video link and people can view it for more detail. These pads keep you dry and comfortable because they are more absorbent than any other pad in the world. The pads have a super absorbent and safe polymer, 10 times more absorbent then the leading pad and holds 300 times its weight in liquid. We have testimony from many women that say that they have never had a pad that helped them stay drier. Some even say it’s so comfortable that they forgot they had it on. Besides that, the solution is that the pads have a unique negative ion strip that has many proven health benefits including helping to reduce pain and inflammation, and neutralizes unwanted odors.
Carol: With all the cancer and women issues today why do you think it took so long for a safer pad to be produced? Why have these facts been hidden for so long?
Derek: Well let’s start with the feminine hygiene industry alone 102 million women used some type of sanitary napkin last year. Just in the U.S. alone consumers spent about 3.1 million on pads, tampons, panty liners etc. A woman can have 17,000 exposures in their life time to feminine products of some sort. The FDA doesn’t require these companies to disclose the content that go into these products. So, what we are finding is that these pads are made inexpensively out of recycled material. Trash grinded up, and taken through a bleaching process to make it white. To make women think that its cotton and pure when in fact once you bleach this composition, coupled with blood and your body temperature releases a chemical called “Dioxin” we ask everyone to do their own Independent research on dioxin and ingredients in sanitary napkins all you have to do is google it. Dioxin is hundreds of times deadlier then arsenic. So, a lot of these issues that women have been suffering in silence with is coming from years of being exposed to these chemicals. If you do your research you will see the different major issues women are dealing with.
Derek: We hear that a lot and we also hear people saying that they would never get involved with one but have joined us because of the moral fiber in our campaign. In addition, we don’t consider ourselves a multi-level company. We are an awareness company that happens to get the product out through the MLM model. If we just put it on the shelf we would have to put millions of dollars into marketing besides we have never seen a compensation plan like this one with products that are as low as $5.00. It is not your normal MLM company. Besides our focus is on awareness and customers. People join because they want to, not because they are being pursued. With us its customers over prospects.
Carol: Mr. Brown, thank you for your time. ▄ If anyone would like to try Cherish premium pads, you can buy or sign up and join the campaign at nspirenetwork.com/Trendsettershealth&wellness and we will make sure you get serviced / for more information on the article call 631-623-2065 Other helpful links CAMPAIGN LINK www.nowweno.net VIDEO LINKS https://youtu.be/kPAV1JbB1M0 https://youtu.be/RshCPsArzQ0 https://youtu.be/XkteudW ltLg
Carol: So it sounds like it boils down to economics. Now there are other products on the market that are organic. What’s the difference?
Derek: There’s a huge difference, I want you to think about something that’s organic that means it comes from trees, a tree is not white so there has to be a process for it to turn white so although its organic material there’s still a process. In addition, we put some of these organic products to the test and they still didn’t stand up to “Cherish’ pads.
Carol: What do you say to people that say it sounds like
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just another multi-level marketing scheme.
T.Y.
Martin
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8 Time Playwright of the Year!
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Martin, Playwright, Producer, Director, and Actor, has written and directed over 60 hit stage productions in seventeen short years. Relentlessly working in the entertainment industry, Martin has the uncanny and tireless ability to write scripts, cast actors, direct, and obtain sponsorship. Martin continues to sell out performances. He has sold out two performances, including an encore performance of his hit production, “Slavery to Freedom.” In addition, he has also sold out the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA with his blockbuster plays "The Hem of His Garment" and "The Biblical Principle" multiples times. Originally trained in fashion merchandising in Chicago, Illinois, Martin first took to the stage in 1993. He was on tour in the USA for eight years as a stand-up comedian, opening shows for the O’Jay’s, the Whispers, Mary J Blige, Kirk Franklin, Steve Harvey, and many others. Martin made the transition from comedy to acting in 1996, when he toured with the professional production company, “Marvelous Entertainment.” This afforded him the opportunity to work with Margaret Avery, of the movie, “The Color Purple,” and other great opportunities as ground promoter plays such as, “God Don’t Like Ugly,” “Just Be a Man about It,” and others. Martin was featured in the 2005 New York Film Festival, in a documentary called “If You Love Me Why Do You Cheat?” which details the behind the scenes world of staging his play of the same name. In addition to his work on the stage, Martin has easily delved into film and TV, with minor roles in major movies. Martin has taught drama to at-risk children in Cleveland, Ohio, and is currently teaching acting classes in metro Atlanta. The mission of T.Y. Martin Studios is to reach people who might never, otherwise, experience live theatre, and to offer gritty, humorous, and original productions. T.Y. Martin’s theatrical productions present a look at a variety of life’s most challenging situations, and sometimes, even suggest practical solutions. These productions provide an opportunity for actors, in the developmental stages of their careers, to enhance performance skills and to build professional resumes. “Above all,” He notes, “Our mission is to bring the gift of laughter and entertainment to the lives and hearts of our audiences.” Presently touring with the hit stage play "The Inspired" (40 city tour) written & directed by T.Y. Martin produced by Lesmont Hill; nominated and won 8 playwright awards this year for productions that dealt with the inhumane act of Domestic Violence issues!; Premiered the hit stage production of T.Y. Martin's ''City to City & Diva-Rella; Starring in the upcoming reality show “Playwrights Atlanta”; Recently auditioned off Broadway actors for the play “Misty’s Blood” ▄
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Prepared celebrity monologues for the 2016 Woman Empowerment Tour featuring, Vivica Fox, Tyrese and Meagan Good; Returned to the comedy stage – WINTER 2016; 2015 Playwright of the year award Dec. 2015; Recipient of 2015 Peach Theatre Award, Nassau Bahamas; Toured with the hit stage play '‘Bully”, “Fired on Yo Day Off”, “H. U. S. H” & “Lord Why Me?” 2013/2015.
“WE HELP GOD’S PEOPLE PROSPER”
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Sir Markadoo
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SIR MARKADOO HIGGINS: ECONOMIC EVANGELI$M
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an empire that is impacting the lives of individuals all over the world. After repeated requests to write a book and share his story, he decided to do just that. But he didn't want it to just be a book about his life, he wanted to show how God’s people can achieve the same lifestyle he did, or better, with just a few systems and a little sweat equity. His newly released Bestseller “Economic Evangelism” does just that. This book chronicles his incredible life story and shares how he went from selling products on the street to sitting in the seat as a CEO of a major corporation. In his book Economic Evangelism, he shares The Five Principles to International Marketing, which is a system that he developed as a youth and later mastered his system to be able to help his movement. He also shares “The Eight Essential Elements of Economic Evangelism” and explains how anyone who uses these principles will be able to succeed not only as a distributor through his company but in any industry they choose. Recently he was a Keynote speaker at SPANFEST in Dallas, Texas. As a new author, he highlighted not only his book but also his vision. His vision is to reach out and give a hand to the youth, young adults and other marginalized citizens that are going through difficult times in this current economy. His philosophy is “If it's not simple it's complicated and complication creates chaos.” You will enjoy his honest appraisal of brands, businesses, and how you or anyone else can take direct aim at your challenges and overcome them in order to win. His book is available on Amazon in paperback, audio, and eBook. Economic Evangelism, A Bold New Movement for Financial Improvement is here today to change the economic landscape. Get your copy today! ▄
For booking please contact Sir Markadoo at www.SirMarkadoo.com.
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he need for education regarding entrepreneurship and financial improvement has never been more important than it is today. Starting and building a successful business can be one of the most rewarding feelings that a person can have because more than half of small businesses fail within the first 5 years. This can be very intimidating to some people and very motivational to others. The story of Sir Markadoo Haggins is extremely motivational and beyond anything you can ever imagine. He was raised in the hood, but he had the opportunity to play on several championship basketball teams winning the state high school championship and going on to play college basketball. Like many, he made some poor decisions that got him caught up into drug and alcohol use. However, he was able to conquer those demons and accomplish his goals in order to create a grassroots economic movement for the youth, young adults and other marginalized citizens. After working as a temp for 16+ hour days, he made the decision to walk away from working for someone else and began working for himself. With a small investment of $96, he purchased 24 religious T-shirts and began selling them on the streets of Decatur, Georgia. Using the same work ethic of putting in 16 hours for someone else, he was able to turn that investment into a significant business. Today he is the CEO of Heavenly Body Products, an International Marketing and Distribution Company. Within his 10,000 square ft. warehouse, he allows his clients to go through learning his systems and simple sweat equity, work themselves up to a level where they can purchase wholesale and replicate his process and become master distributors. Realizing the significance of his success, he now reaches back into the community and helps the youth and young adults create their own businesses and fulfill their own dreams through his foundation, Strong Young Minds of America. After 24 years in business, he has a company that he now operates with his wife, StudioSteffanie. Together they have built
Steaven Misher Atlanta’s Rising Prince of Poetry
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By: Kaliah Henton-Jones
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hen Steaven Misher speaks you get the sense that you need to pull up a chair and get real close because you don’t want to miss a word. He delivers phrases with the cadence of a melodic jazz band, too many pathways to keep up, but every single sound blends perfectly into one harmonious masterpiece. Misher is unassuming, except for the fact that he is almost always in a suit and reliably ready to arrest your psyche with his words. He has been creating and sharing his poetry with anyone that will listen for more than two decades. But now, this self-professed Prince of Poetry wants to step outside of the shadows of the unknown and assume his place as the voice of a new generation of rhapsodists in Atlanta. Misher is a southern boy at heart and he exudes a charm and intellect that is a throwback to the Harlem Renaissance. He was born in Albany, Georgia but later moved to Washington, D.C. before serving a stint in the U.S. Military. Misher completed undergraduate work at Morehouse College, holds two Master’s degrees and is in the process of completing his Ph.D. He is also a well-respected teacher in the Atlanta school system. Yet, Misher feels like his educational accomplishments are not what qualifies his existence. He believes it’s his poetry. Misher recalled the day he knew he had a gift, “I recited a poem I wrote about raising black boys to a group of grown men inside a barbershop…when I got through there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. My words and delivery brought them to tears.” It was at that moment that he understood the power of his words. Misher has not looked back since. In 2010, Misher completed his first anthology of poetry entitled, Eagles Fly Alone. It was a collection of inspirational works. It also contained his most recognized poem by the same name. In 2013, he released “Healing in His Wings”. It served as a tribute to people who inspired some of his earlier works. This year, Misher completed his third anthology, Heaven Has Windows. He calls it his best work yet. It came at a time when Misher says he faced, “Great personal difficulty.” He suffered through the death of his brother and then struggled with the dissolution of a marriage. “It was as if the walls were caving in on me and I had nowhere else to go but the pad and pen.” Misher says, “Heaven Has Windows was humbling and at the same time my most vulnerable piece of work. I had to take a close look at me to really find healing and hope.”
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Now Misher has turned another page in his story. Earlier this year, he was nominated as “Best Inspirational Poet” and “Rising Star Poet” through the Gifted Artists & Neo Soul Poetry Awards. The national poetry nomination has positioned Misher to a wider audience and has made his grind to produce and recite poetry more intense. Misher writes poetry at an alarming pace. First, he is inspired by a thought or idea then he isolates himself before fleshing out his message. That’s when the stanzas start flowing and the barbs from the rhythm and rhymes strike the listener’s ear like a sting ray. During a dinner meeting a few weeks back, Misher sat in a crowded noisy South Atlanta restaurant to have a business meeting about a television appearance he was scheduled to have later in the week. The conversation shifted to one of his early poems written in high school. Without missing a beat Misher reached back into his poetic vault and began to recite the 20-year-old poem. In the two to three minutes that followed time froze. Business associates around the table with Misher were immediately sucked into the vortex of his words. It had appeared that a slight hush fell over that section of the restaurant as he transformed himself into this brazen poet that had the cadence of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the swagger of former President Barack Obama and the poetic resilience of the rapper Common. Steaven Misher is the real deal. The poet, U.S. Veteran and educator is now working on plans to form his own non-profit. It will support causes that impact the lives of the world’s most vulnerable…children. Misher is also working on a secret project that he says will make waves concerning some of Atlanta’s best poets. He is also committed to community causes. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County and the Henry County Branch of the NAACP. Atlanta’s Rising Prince of Poetry says now is his time to make a difference. In the words of his hero and fellow Morehouse College alum Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Be a bush if you can’t be a tree. If you can’t be a highway, just be a trail. If you can’t be a sun, be a star. For it isn’t by size that you win or fail. Be the best of whatever you are.” Misher is claiming his place at the podium to be among the best poets Atlanta’s ever seen. ▄ Learn more about Steaven Misher Website: www.steavenmisher.com Twitter: @smisher73 Instagram: @Smisher73 YouTube: SteavenMisher
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RENEE P. ALDRICHOn a Mission of Restoring, Resurrecting and Reinventing the lives of other women as she does her own By T2T Staff
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Plan for Your Life, went live on Amazon, Barnes and Nobel and Balboa Press Web Sites in August of this Year. In November 2017, Aldrich will be celebrating 15 years of Softer Side Seminars, and 10 years of an annual event Woman to Woman Empowerment Symposium Streaming Self Esteem from one to the other. Softer Side Seminars started 15 years ago in an auditorium with about 30 attendees. She presented 9 Steps to the Softer Side, within 5 years she started an annual event designed to be a gathering place for women to receive tools to help them build and sustain self-esteem, and to totally recreate the way they see themselves. She states, “Regrettably throughout our lives we are inundated with media images, opinions of so called friends, significant others, and or well-meaning family members. The messages from these groups often fill our blank slates with which we are born with false identifiers; like we are just not good enough, too tall, too short, too dark, too light, hair too short, too long, not religious enough, and so forth and so on. We begin to absorb these “untruths about ourselves, believe them, and take them as our own. Through our workshops we begin to help women peel back these layers of negativity to the truth of who they are, beautiful, gifted, talented creations perfectly designed by God and destined for amazing things. I started this program as I came to realize how many times I had been made to feel intimidated by women who came across as bullies, as I recognized my own struggles with low selfesteem, and why I was stuck there and in realization that God had a plan for my life that it didn’t seem to be happening. That’s why I say emphatically at the end of Notes from the Softer Side. That it is clear, as I share the message of high selfesteem with others, through each spoken and written word I’ve done, they were all intended for my personal use. God saw this, and said present it to others like you—you are not alone. ▄
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enee P. Aldrich is the Founder and Director of Softer Side Seminars, an empowerment and selfesteem building program for women and girls.” Through this program she helps direct women to the path of a healthy sense of self. Aldrich shares, “Softer Side Seminars is founded on the premise that we as women are challenged and called to enter a softer more loving relationship with ourselves.” This is based on the knowledge and the way we feel about ourselves, is the way we believe others feel about us and we take it with us everywhere we go and into every situation. She has previously worked as a community health educator for the American Cancer Society and further explains, “When women have high self -esteem, they make better choices about personal health, are less likely to smoke, use drugs and alcohol, get regular mammograms, and these positive choices spill over to the family dynamic. She continues, “When teen girls have a healthy sense of self, they are less likely to engage in promiscuous behavior, are less likely to stay in abusive teen relationships, make better relationship choices period, and are more likely to pursue excellence in school—including moving on to college enrollment. Aldrich wears many hats. She is a Life Skills Coordinator for a woman’s shelter in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a sought after speaker, and workshop presenter. She is an award winning Freelance Writer, with articles throughout the Pittsburgh area, included but not limited to the University of Pittsburgh Alumni Magazine, the Pitt Chronicle, the New Pittsburgh Courier, and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. She has been recognized as one of the New Pittsburgh Courier’s 50 Women of Excellence, and as a Business Woman of the Year by the Sanata Magazine, Women’s Empowerment Project based out of Washington, D.C. Most recently she has become a published Author. The companion book to her empowerment program Notes from the Softer Side—A Roadmap to Achieving God’s
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Annual fundraiser, "Charity from the Sole" The Return of the Little Black Dress Affair.
Sylvia Webb, FOUNDER
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community. The female guests were asked to wear their Classic Little Black Dress and FABULOUS Shoes. The black dress is a show of solidarity for those who are suffering from homelessness, the Shoes symbolizes a woman’s ability to Rise above it all. The men were asked to dress to impress. Ms. Heels Boutique of Atlanta ended the evening with an impressive Shoe Fashion Show. 40 Girls and Some Shoes is a local nonprofit that donates new and gently used Shoes to the homeless, low income and less fortunate citizens in Atlanta and its surrounding communities. 40 Girls and Some Shoes has also provided Shoes to an orphanage in Haiti twice and a village in Ghana, West Africa. Over the last 10 years they have donated over thirty five thousand pairs of Shoes to those in need and their hope for the next 10 years is that they donate Less! Shoes will not eradicate Homelessness, nor do they guarantee employment, but they are sure to help heal the SOLES and SOULS of those in need. All attendees were asked to donate new or gently worn shoes for the "Charity from the Sole event. In the U.S. alone, approximately 630 million pairs of shoes are thrown away a year. The materials used to manufacture a pair of shoes are created from chemical compounds, the kind that will create health hazards if left to disintegrate openly or in landfills. By donating new and gently worn pairs of used shoes to the 40 Girls & Some Shoes, "Charity from the Sole", what would have gone into landfills will be given a second chance to make a difference. All donated shoes were redistributed on Sunday, August 27th, at 937 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA. ▄
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Girls and Some Shoes hosted its annual fundraiser, "Charity from the Sole" The Return of the Little Black Dress Affair. The event was held on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at Studio No.7, 393 Marietta St, Atlanta, GA with leading philanthropists, celebrities and politicians. The Red Carpet got underway at 8pm. Ms. Sylvia Webb, founder of 40 Girls and Some Shoes, shared that what started out as a one-time community project to honor her cousin, became her passion and mission. Sadly, her cousin experienced homelessness and later died from the stress of it. Sylvia never imagined ten years ago that she would be here today with 40 Girls and Some Shoes as an Organization. The evening was a celebration of 10 Years of Giving, “A cocktail party with a purpose”. Several non-profits that are making an impact in communities across Atlanta as well as globally were in attendance. A few of those organizations partnered with 40 Girls and Some Shoes and spoke about their mission of giving back to those who are in need. One of the special guests was City Council President, Ceasar Mitchell. Mr. Mitchell shared his hope and vision for a better Atlanta for all. Jasmine Crowe, a friend of 40 Girls and Some Shoes and CEO of Goodr, a food rescue app that rescues food around Atlanta and helps feed the hungry, shared her plans to ensure no one goes to bed hungry in the city of Atlanta and eventually around the world. Featured Speaker Latarsha Holden, who is the topic of a newly released documentary, No Longer Lost, shared her story and journey from homelessness to a Ph.D. candidate. Actor Ross Fleming of the hit Netflix movie "Boy Bye" made a special appearance and showed his support for the work 40 Girls and Some Shoes is doing in the
Ruby Manuel: The Author
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uby Manuel is an author of 4 novels in which the characters portrayed in her books have been credited with inspiring her readers to work through the countless fears many of us strive to overcome in life. Ruby Manuel was born June 23, 1954 in Wabbaseka, Arkansas. Ruby’s childhood was sadly filled with struggles of sexual, physical, and mental abuse, which led up to her dropping out of high school in the 11th grade. Knowing an abusive life was not the life she wanted, she applied and was accepted into Job Corps in 1971, later moving to Los Angeles an obtaining her high school diploma. In 1979 Ruby Manuel worked at Bank of America. For the next 8 years Ruby focused her attentions on moving forward toward her dream of becoming a writer. As a single mother raising 3 children, Ruby assumed that without any degree, it would be impossible to be a published author. At age 40 she earned her degree in early childhood education and opened her own licensed family facility to provide home childcare. Ruby Manuel’s first published book, “If Not Today, Maybe Tomorrow” detailing her autobiography in 2010 spoke to thousands of women from around the globe that faced the same horrific abuse. After writing her biography in 2010, Ruby was diagnosed with stage three liver disease due to contracting Hepatitis C. While on radiation treatment she began writing “The Suitcase One”, which was later adapted into a play. Writing helped Ruby Manuel endure her treatments leading to her miraculous recovery. Inspired and healthy she wrote the sequel “The Suitcase Two”. Ruby Manuel married Nick Arline in 2008. Manuel’s husband suffered a massive stoke in 2014 leaving him in a coma. The pain that Ruby endured each day inspired her again to trust in God. “My God delivered me and he will do the same for my husband," she told herself. Ruby prayed daily and those prayers were answered when Nick was released from the hospital. Ruby began writing inspirational quotes each day, which led to the creation of her fourth book entitled, “When Words Inspire". Ruby hopes those words will touch every heart and bring peace to your soul. Ruby Manuel is also a motivational life coach who has been a guest on radio stations and has given speeches about her life to schools and nonprofit organizations. If you would like to invite Ruby to speak contact her for more information. ▄
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WWW.RUBYMANUEL.COM
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BONITA PARKERVISIONARY AUTHOR of Artificial Beaute’: The Breakthrough By KEINA KENNEDY
ABANDONMENT
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hat if at the age of 4 years old, YOUR biological mother left YOU at the babysitter and never returned? What if YOU became distrustful of other women because of what was done to YOU by the one woman you thought would always be there for you? And lastly, what if YOU almost allowed history to repeat itself …? Meet Award-nominated, Best-selling Author, Bonita Parker! In Part II of her Trilogy, “Artificial Beaute': The Breakthrough,” Bonita shares her personal power story of being abandoned by her mother at the tender age of 4. This traumatic experience serves as the catalyst behind her hidden pain and inability to authentically connect with women. “It [her mom leaving her] left a bad taste in my mouth and I had a hard time connecting with girls and women for a long time.” Even though women naturally gravitated to her, Bonita admits, “I pushed them away and allowed them to feel, think, and believe whatever they wanted to about me!” Her belief was that, “If my own mother didn’t accept me and want to stay when I was at my most authentic state, what made me think other women would?” And, therefore, carried this thought-process with her as she moved through life into adulthood. Only later did she realize the void that she was feeling in her life was due to lack of sisterhood and the ability to bond with other women. During this revelation, Bonita was reminded of words spoken by her aunt years ago … "You are beautiful on the outside but ugly on the inside." That's when she realized that a deep self-evaluation and healing from her past was necessary in her life. It was during this time that Bonita realized what her true purpose in life was. Today, she is a Certified Master Life Coach & Transformation Strategist working with women to transition them from hurt to healing. She connects women with their pasts and distinctively draws their issues to the forefront in a way that catapults them out of bondage & oppression and into forgiveness & inner peace. "I am all about transparency and authenticity; and I love building sisterhood and unity amongst women That’s my primary mission in this life.” True to these words, Bonita graciously shares her platform in her compelling new book with 5 other women co-authors, capturing the essence of what all six of them endured from childhood to adulthood. These RAW stories include graphic testimonials of abandonment, infidelity, mental and physical abuse, sibling torture, teen parenting & unforgiveness and how they break through the barriers that held them in their oppressive states. What Bonita wants others to know with this book is: “When you are faced with adversity and real-life trauma, you have 2 options …you can lose all hope and fall into selfdestructive habits or you can use the challenge to find our inner strength and move forward.” This book represents strong will, determination and a life-changing desire to live on the other side of fear. Bonita Parker is quickly rising to become one of the leading life and transformation coaches globally. At time of press, Bonita Parker's, “Artificial Beaute': The Breatkthrough” is topping the charts on Amazon's Best Seller's list. You can connect with her and purchase this book at: www.bparkerenterprises.com ▄
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KIMBERLY MOORER By KEINA KENNEDY
INFIDELITY
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been stripped of her esteem again. “He said he was a good guy, that he would take good care of me, and that this marriage was a partnership...but that totally wasn’t what I got!” Kimberly says her husband was a repetitive cheater. Goosebumps appeared all over me when she communicated his preference to take another woman out of town and leave her home. His arrogance, she remembers, was so prevalent. She caught him hugged up with yet a different woman at the job where they both worked. “I got numb to it,” exclaims the co-author. Embarrassed, Kimberly didn’t tell her parents this time. She instead carried the What-Is-Wrong- With-Me Syndrome – blaming herself for years. Now, at age 31, the all grown up Kimberly Moorer gives credit to God for answered prayers and for the rediscovery of her life and purpose. She divorced her husband twice, realizing the second time SHE was the one who needed to change. God reassured Kimberly that she was a great wife who simply did not wait on her ordained husband. She now helps other women cope through divorce and prepare for new relationships. Kimberly also counsels teenage girls battling low self-esteem and is busy being the best version of herself. “Today, there’s nothing that a man can tell me that will put me down.” Go, Kimberly! She’s writing her new weight loss book and can be reached at healonebuildone.wixsite.com/coach. ▄
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o-Author Kimberly Moorer is yet another asset to: “Artificial Beaute’: The BreakThrough.” As the youngest contributor to the book, Kimberly’s chapter “Pain Producing Purpose” touches on infidelity. She’s from a town just outside of Selma, Alabama. The youngest of 5 children, Kimberly came from a Christian home where her dad was a deacon and her mom was a Sunday School teacher. It’s no surprise that Kimberly came to know God for herself in her early teens. But one of the biggest misconceptions about Christianity is that, once you confess to know God, life is supposed to be that perfect box of chocolates…not so. Kimberly struggled with low self-esteem. She had complexion issues and weight problems. She even believed she wasn’t pretty. Those insecurities escalated once she began dating. Her very first boyfriend called her out of her name on many occasions. He told her guys only wanted her for her body and not her face…further causing deeper wounds. “He made me feel like nobody wanted me,” explained Kimberly. But when Kimberly’s dad caught wind of the degrading, he counseled his daughter and used his own marriage to Kimberly’s mom as a barometer for Kimberly to follow. Kimberly took her father’s advice and said sayonara to the young buck. Two years later, she was married. “At 21 years old, you think you know a lot,” laughs Kimberly. “But I was so naïve and I believed every word he [her husband] told me.” Sadly, within the first year of marriage, the already insecure southern girl had
Anne Sewell By KEINA KENNEDY
ABUSE
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nne Sewell was born in Virginia in a loving home. Her parents were very caring but indeed strict. She was pampered by her mom, dad and 4 older brothers and didn’t want for anything. Though spoiled, it was one thing Anne was not allowed to do, like most girls her age could. While in high school, Anne was forbidden to date. Her mom made her focus on her grades and her goals; which, included becoming an airline stewardess with Eastern Airlines and some day becoming an entrepreneur. Although Anne graduated from Spingarn High School in Washington, D.C. with honors, those dreams were soon shot. “I met this tall, slim, brown, gorgeous man who was dressed so nice and had the baddest ride ever.” So she went on her first date with him. “It was not your ordinary McDonald’s run…I dressed up and got in his car.” Needless to say, the date ended up in a bedroom setting…where the virgin, Anne, was raped! Co-Author, Anne Sewell, of “Artificial Beaute’: The BreakThrough,” shares how she blamed herself for the crime. “If I hadn’t gone into that room, he wouldn’t have done this.” Almost a week later, the teenager ran into him again. Hoping for an apology, she told him… “You hurt me and I never want to see you again.” At that very moment, with no warning…BAM! “He slapped me so hard, my eye had swollen shut, my lip was busted, there was blood everywhere and my hamburger flew so far in the air I didn’t even see where it went!” The next voice Anne heard was his, “You made me do it!” And for the following 20 years, Anne Sewell got beat and abused by
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this man, almost daily. He put a gun in her mouth, kicked her with steel toe boots, and even put her entire head in the toilet. In order to deal with her circumstances, Anne became addicted to PCP, cocaine, marijuana, valium, and alcohol. She used these drugs 365 days a year. Her chapter, “Breaking Down The Scaffold” is so deep and mesmerizing, that it is a MUST READ! The most miraculous thing about Anne’s breakthrough is that she NEVER shared her abuse with her family or friends, until after the publishing of this book. Happy that she survived, she eagerly shares her testimony now in hopes that other battered women will find their exit. “I am a Christian now and this feels better than ANY high and the abuse.” Anne has never been to rehabilitation but is 9 years drug free! She sought out help for years with various psychologists, but it was Bonita Parker (Author of the Trilogy, “Artificial Beaute’”) that she credits for the rescue. Anne Sewell is the CEO & Founder of Creative Vision For Women at creativevisionforwomen.com. She has opened her home to 48 foster kids and has one biological son and one adopted son. Anne is a heroic trendsetter! She spends her time working, volunteering and taking care of her 103 year old grandmother and 85 year old mom. ▄
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ELECIA JAMES BY KEINA KENNEDY
SIBILING TORTURE
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lock her in the closet daily and make her repeat she was ugly. As well, it discusses her battling depression, losing everything to a house fire, and being a stroke survivor. Elecia shares exclusive moments of fighting for her students and co-workers, while being a principal at a predominately Hispanic school. But, she never allowed her disappointments to define her! “I am determined, a risk taker and goal-oriented! My father always instilled in me to have a Plan A and a Plan B.” Elecia James now lives in Washington, D.C. and has been a resident for 28 years. She attended Michigan State University and has a bachelor’s degree in Music and Elementary Education, with a minor in Spanish. She holds two Masters of Education from Bowie State University and Trinity College. She has successfully educated 100’s of children, including taking 40 of them on a school trip to Canada… all while biologically unable to birth her own. She now spends her time doing empowerment sessions and facilitating workshops. Ms. James was just appointed Chief of Staff for the “National Council of Women of America.” Most recently a Keynote Speaker alongside Meagan Goode at the “BE U Girl’s Conference” in Lancaster, PA, Elecia accepts speaking engagements worldwide. She is the Co-Producer of “Black Girls Unscripted” and is known as The Girl Ambassador. She wants our readers to know: “If you look in the mirror, believe in yourself, and encourage yourself- you can be anything!” The super-multi-talented Elecia James can be reached at thegirlambassador.com. ▄
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ho accompanies their parents in church, listens intently to the music, then goes home to mimic the music on the piano?...4 year old Elecia James. When her parents took notice, they hired private piano teachers to develop Elecia’s gift. Born from parents who both sing, Elecia was bound to have musical genes. She recalls her mom and dad being great parents and remembers growing up in a beautiful upper middle class home in White Plains, New York. Elecia recounts wearing the best clothes and attending some of the best schools. In fact, she attended the Performing Arts Conservatory, Juliard School, for four years…while STILL in high school! At age 16, Elecia was selected out of hundreds to perform in Europe for 2 months with “America’s Youth In Concert.” She then went on to college to classically train as a musician. Unstoppable, Elecia’s proud father showcased his daughter to different churches all over, which led to her Music Directing career. So, what’s the deal with Elecia James? Elecia James struggled with a myriad of road blocks along her seemingly perfect home life and musical journey. She battled racism, marrying the wrong man, almost being blackballed because of her integrity, and coping with family dysfunction. These are all reasons why she is “More Than A Conqueror,” as her Chapter is so appropriately named. As Co-Author of “Artificial Beaute’: The BreakThrough,” Elecia speaks about how one of her relatives would
Ida Robinson BY KEINA KENNEDY
TEEN PARENTING Heights”…a D.C. based learning program offered by the city. She then got a job as a federal contractor with the federal government. Ida was so far into her mission of being a go-getter – refusing to become a statistic, she inadvertently began to fail her children as a mom. In her chapter entitled, “Who Am I,” Ida Robinson’s story gets worse before it gets better. Her diabetic dad passes away, which led her mom to having a stroke and suffering brain damage. And, at just 21 years old, brave Ida had to make a decision whether to pull the life support plug on her dad. Read her incredible story as she journeys from being a failing teenage mom to being a successful mom! Today, Ida and her sister are still the caregivers to their mom. She is a six-figure income earner with the federal government and founder of MomNPowerment.com. She encourages young mothers to DREAM BIG! She offers personal development, empowerment and entrepreneurial resources to assist them in ascertaining their goals. “I believe if we, as a community, shift our focus to creating success rather than statistics out of young parents we can not only help them succeed, but we can also reduce poverty in our society!”▄
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er parents were functioning heroin addicts. They lived in homeless shelters in and around Washington, D.C. until she turned 8 years old. Coauthor of “Artificial Beaute’: The BreakThrough,” Ida Robinson, says she will never forget how happy she was when her mom got the notice that she was approved for an apartment in the Potomac Gardens neighborhood. Her entire family, including her mom, dad, and sister caught the metro bus to the new hi-rise building. “It smelled of urine, one of the elevators were broken, and it was very dark…We were all scared and excited at the same time.” Still, Ida’s goal back then was to escape. “I was determined I was going to do something different.” The only problem was that there were no positive images within her community…so poverty was all she knew for a long time. With not much for youth to do in the inner city, Ida ended up pregnant as a teen…twice! As a 2X teen mom, this teenager began building herself. She enrolled in public assistance, went to day & night school and took advantage of “New
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LuDREAN PETERSON BY KEINA KENNEDY
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him, but it didn't work out. She felt he needed to pay for not calling her sooner. LuDrean vowed not to let anyone else in her space out of fear of being hurt. The exception to the rule was her high school best friend. She allowed her bestie close access, until one day…they too had a disagreement. "I immediately felt betrayal and that same exact feeling of hatred I felt with my father." So, what did LuDrean do? She executed the same punishment she’d previously given her dad… SILENCE. The pivotal moment was when LuDrean’s best friend got sick and was hospitalized. What happens next with father and daughter + these two best friends is totally unfathomable and not what any person with a beating heart would want to experience! I personally invite you to LuDrean’s journal in this excruciating chapter. The timeline of her journal will absolutely blow your mind! Today, LuDrean Howard Peterson, MSM, MBA credits her pastor’s Matthew 6:14-16 sermon on forgiveness for her transformation. The 24-year Human Resources expert is a Business Strategist and Coach to individuals and businesses. She encourages people to stretch beyond what they deem is right, even when they did nothing wrong. Formerly, The Director for Int’l Programs for the Food and Drug Administration, LuDrean was awarded a Pioneer Award for her efforts as their spokesperson - venturing into China, South Africa and India. LuDrean is the Founder of “Delivering On Ideas & Thoughts (DO IT)” and can be reached at www.do-it-delivers.com. ▄
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he misfortune of miscommunication (missed communications) can sometimes tear relationships apart. When people wrong us, too often, we react vs. respond. When reacting some revenge, some build walls, some blame others, and some shut down. LuDrean Peterson shares how she practiced these self-destructive behaviors of unforgiveness with nearly every relationship in which someone...did her wrong. As a Co-Author of "Artificial Beaute': The BreakThrough," LuDrean subtitled her Chapter as “Who’s Cheating Who?” After years of disconnection from two of her most treasured relationships, LuDrean stopped reacting and responded…"All the time, I was cheating myself!" LuDrean Peterson was born and raised in S.E., Washington, D.C. Every summer she’d visit her father at his barbershop in SC. As a little girl, the most vivid memory of him was sitting on his lap in his barber’s chair. He’d often look at her in the mirror and tell her she was beautiful. He followed this practice with giving her money each time. Upon entering 6th grade, LuDrean admits… “I got a little grown and I got a summer job.” Making her own moves and meeting new friends, to her, a trip down south that summer wasn't warranted. Phones calls ceased between the two and the father-daughter silence began. After years passed, LuDrean’s dad gave in and called. She remembers two separate times she could have spoken to
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CRYSTAL DOWDY: CRYSTAL CLEAR TALENT
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e caught up with Miss Crystal Dowdy of Columbus Ohio, who many will remember her gracing the pages of Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine. Well, we are excited to share with our readers what she’s been up to! Her drive for success hasn't diminished one bit... Crystal has been a busy-bee simultaneously working on several projects this year which has brought her continued exposure. Crystal has worked with Channel 6 News with “Tom Sussi” presenting the Clean Plate Award on her local news station, commercial work with Jerrud Smith, co-hosting online radio with Dave Tolliver from “Men At Large”, Blaq Pavi &The Sweet T’s Show, and an abundance of regional fashion shows. Crystal’s drive and determination is non-stop! Outside of work, raising a teenager, and continuing to develop her seasoning company “Johnson Spice”, we are excited to learn of her latest project in which she is working on her very own line of Lip Color scheduled to launch in 2018. Catch her while you can. Take advantage of an opportunity to work with Crystal on many fronts. You can connect with her via email at Crystalclearimage@gmail.com or follow her on Social Media.▄
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merrah Brown is my name if you haven’t heard of me yet, you will very soon. Most people know me as Amore the Skin Care Mogul. I am the Creator & CEO of Beautiful Amore Skincare, Beautiful Amore Pink Collection (a line that celebrates all women and our struggles) and Co Founder of IAM skincare for Men. I am a manufacturer of Natural & Organic body products designed to help people with problematic skin. I help boost confidence, keep your skin healthy, glowing and beautiful. My product line contains ingredients used to soothe and heal itchy dry skin, psoriasis and eczema... All made by hand with Love. I provide healthy food for your skin; body and hair. It will nourish your beauty from the inside out. The aromatic blends of the essential oils used in my formulations help to relieve stress and heal your soul. I am passionate about my mission to help you overcome skin issues while also helping you to look good, feel good, be confident and feel Beautiful. Most importantly, I want you to feel loved whenever you use my products. If the essence of love could ever be captured in a bottle Beautiful Amore Skincare comes close to it. Love captured in a bottle... That’s what makes my brand stand above the rest. Here’s a little insight as to what keeps me motivated and moving forward…
I am a domestic violence survivor. I finally I got the courage to leave. With no money and no place to live, I began to plan my future. I faced many road blocks and hurdles but my faith in God kept me moving forward. HE kept me strong and gave me the determination to change my life around. Beautiful Amore Skincare was created after receiving inspiration from God. I felt the love of God touching my life in so many ways even though I didn’t have a dime in my pocket. I felt rich because I had HIM and I knew that all things are possible through HIS Love. Beautiful Amore skincare is a company born from struggle, imagination, necessity, determination and love. The name Beautiful Amore is my tribute to GOD and to humanity, it means love is Beautiful. God’s love is endless and beautiful. There’s beauty in loving ourselves and each other. When we do this it shows our
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In 2009, I began mixing my own blends of natural creams, oils and lotions for myself and my family. Almost 8 years ago what began as a way to help love myself and to relieve my own skin ailments has turned into 3 businesses. Loving yourself, others and the skin you’re in... That’s what truly makes a difference in this world. That’s what Beautiful Amore Skincare is about. ▄
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love for our Creator. My belief is that when you love yourself it shows in how you treat other human beings, animals and the planet we live on. We are all connected... I show my love by using the gift God gave me to help people overcome skin issues. Sometimes people with skin ailments suffer from low self esteem; it makes them feel embarrassed, uncomfortable, and they feel unloved. Two of the most well known skin ailments is eczema and acne. Eczema was a silent growing epidemic in our community. No one
really talked about it because it was embarrassing to them. Eczema is an extremely dry skin condition that causes itching, dry patches, scars, blisters and sores. The products that are available main stream made it worse due to the high levels of toxic chemicals in them.
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Styles of
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FALL 2017 Mention this ad receive 15% off on your next purchase.
Imagination Fashions beyond your Imagination
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3500 Payne Avenue Unit 1C Cleveland Ohio 44114 216-410-8555 www.stylesofimagination.com
THE INKKWELL'S "J'RELL" releases
RELLIGION Producer, Songwriter, Composer, Multi-Talented Musician, Artist
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Credits: Jamie Foxx, Musiq Soulchild, Tyrese, Ceelo Green
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FROM CHAMPS RETAIL CHAIN TO CHAMPION By Keina Kennedy
Parking my car, I noticed a beautiful red brick building with no moniker or emblem tucked away in the heart of Atlanta's Howell Avenue business district. Upon entering, I am greeted by Ayo, the manager, with a warm "Hello, Welcome to Inkkwell". [Inkkwell, is a boutique development firm that specializes in nurturing artists, songwriters, and producers then obtains placements for them.] Seconds later, I'm shaking the hand of this well preserved, slender gentleman who reveals himself as Saddam - the Facilitator of Inkkwell (along with Miles Wheeler). Saddam escorted me to Studio B to meet J'RELL. The wide brim hat and cool shades were a dead giveaway that he was indeed the future mega-producer I was coming to interview! Let's get right down to J’RELL’s story.
WHO IS J'RELL? J'RELL was born Jerelle Anthony Moore, as a "PK" (pastor's kid), in New Haven, CT. He comes from a family of singers; including cousins Maurice White (drummer) and Verdine White (bassist) who are the brothers and brains behind the band Earth Wind & Fire. Cousin Maurice taught him how to sing, Uncle Alton taught him the organ at age 6 and Uncle Stephon was instrumental in teaching him finger placement and piano chords over the phone. Additionally, JRELL learned bass guitar, trombone, trumpet and harp. Though the most significant contribution as an adolescent was his mom - who prayed over her son's ears, eyes, hands, feet, and legs. As with most PK's, J'RELL's singing career began in church. Still, he entered different showcases in New Haven. Before long, he ended up moving to ATL to work alongside his mom on her gospel album, where he co-produced his 1st song with Jonathan Dubose, Jr. Continuing to showcase, J’RELL ultimately landed on Wild Out Wednesdays on BET's 106 and Park. J'RELL came in 2nd place and admits to being "mad about it". He confesses, "The moment I lost, is the moment I realized I'd be back and better." Having to return to his 9 to 5 at Champs Retail Chain, J'RELL's god-brother, Robeon, insisted he meet Saddam (A&R for Maybach Music since its inception in 2008 and manager for artists on Bad Boy Records). It took a few tries for the two to meet. But, once the pair finally caught up with each other, the checks started coming. Saddam told J'RELL, "If you don't allow me to out-hustle you, I'll assist you in everything pertaining to ascertaining your dreams." And that's exactly what is happening!
THE MEGA-PRODUCER So, how does one go from working in retail in Cumberland Mall to being a CHAMPION in the music industry? His God-given gift + consistency + patience. J'RELL and his Inkkwell family built their studio from the ground up. They stayed silent for 3 years before ever opening the doors to clients. J'RELL mass produced song after song and officially set himself up to become
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Mr. "Press Play". J'RELL explains: "When I press play, THEY LISTEN"! That's what happened when Breon Prescott came to Inkkwell to grab tracks for Jamie Foxx. Two weeks later, guess who had placements on Jaime Foxx's album, “Hollywood: A Story of A Dozen Roses?” You guessed it, J'RELL. He produced the title cut "Hollywood"and "Vegas Confessions". J'RELL then made his way to Musiq Soulchild. He produced 1st single “Humble Pie” on Musiq's new album, "Feel the Real" and will soon share the stage with the 11-time Grammy award nominee in a duo project (see our next issue). Nope, J'RELL didn't stop there! When Tyrese put out an ABP for audio engineers, J'RELL answered the call. Tyrese invited J'RELL to his home in LA. Although J'RELL was set to engineer a session, he was clever enough to sit down at Tyrese's workspace and crank out a fully produced track in 20 minutes flat. When Tyrese finally arrived home, the Fast & Furious star was floored over the track! "Tyrese repeated the track for 5 or 6 hours straight," says J'RELL. Two days later, Ceelo Green laid vocals on it and Queen Latifah popped in to witness. I asked J'RELL how he felt at that moment and his reply was..."It felt good because they were feeling me, but I remained calm and stayed in producer mode." This landed J’RELL a track on Black Ty’s newest forthcoming album, “Identity Theft”. It is no surprise J’RELL now unveils his own new album, “Relligion”?
THE ARTIST I got a chance to listen to J'RELL's album and BOY, IT-ISFIRE! The 1st song I heard was "Holy Water." When I tell you, the falsetto this young cat is blessing us with on this track...Geesh!...All I have to say is watch out Maxwell and everyone else who has dope falsetto...a new Prince is born...HA! J'Rell acknowledges in this faith-based compilation of 12 songs, that "We don't get it right every day." He talks about life and people being judgmental. He recognizes the demons people face in relationships and as individuals. So, he's put together songs like "False Advertisement," which speaks about women having fake breasts and butts. He sings about women being in abusive relationships on the record called "Heaven in Hell". He even has a song called "Sin" which discusses falling for our flesh. Every melody, every word, and every note I heard on this album was on point! The album is written and produced by J'RELL, along with June Summers and Angelo Ray (also of The Inkkwell), and is mixed by Ray Seay. In closing, I asked J'RELL what was his biggest mistake. He paused and replied, "...not believing in myself earlier..." Well this is definitely NOT the case anymore! Based upon what I’ve witnessed, J'RELL exudes swag and will be around for a while. I'll go even further to say...and quote me on this..."He will eventually win a Grammy." ▄
iamjrell@gmail.com
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WELCOME TO THE INKKWELL
TONY MACK KEYBOARD PLAYER| SINGER|PRODUCER| SONGWRITER By: Shernita Wiggins-Wynder
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stand toe-to-toe with the greats...well, nybody that knows me, he has played with knows that I absolutely "Music for some is entertainment...for because them. So, it's no wonder that in this LOVE Jazz, R&B, Funk Tony Mack it is his calling." millennium, he and those like him are Grooves, and Neo-Soul muresurfacing amidst the new generations, sic. I came up in the 70's to continue the legacy of the music that even era...ALL of it and the music spoke to your very the millennials love. But I think you will get a better underessence and it moved you...NO WAIT...compelled you to MOVE! standing about where he and his band are headed in this inThe artists of the 60's and 70's spoke volumes through their music. depth interview with T2T. Messages and stories were told in the lyrics of love, heartbreak, social injustices and just plain ol' having a good time. The compositions either made you sway or become melancholy...but either T2T: What or who inspired you to get into music and exway, you felt something. You didn't even have to know the artist plain the journey when you began? to feel him/her. All you had to do...was just LISTEN to their mesMy father was an opera singer with the Jamaican opera, a sage and chords and it was as if you had known them all of your tap dancer, and guitar player before coming to this country. I life. remember an old 33 of him singing Gershwin's "Porgy and They say that music soothes the savage beast. Well, I guess there Bess"hanging on our apartment wall in Brooklyn. However, it is a beast in all of us that love music, no matter the genre, because was Mandrill's "Fencewalk"and Ronald Bell's Kool and The it soothes us and we can remember the songs long after the era has evolved into the background, giving way to new artists and genGang "Wild and Peaceful"album that said, "Yeah... this is what res. Long after the artist has transitioned to the afterlife...and guarI want to do. I want to play and write music that makes others anteed that when you hear the song, be it decades later, you will feel, like I feel, when I listen to these early influences like Jeff erupt floodgates of memories that centered around it, when they Lorber, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and the legendary were popular. George Duke pretty much shaped my playing style, but it was Tony Mack, born Neville Mclachlan, has lived through those the early groups like Mandrill, Kool & The Gang, Crown eras and not just as a faithful listener Heights Affair, of course, Earth Wind & Fire that captured and music appreciation soul...he was part of the process that gave us those thump-beats and groovy moves with that laid-back swag my early formative years. for funk groovin'. He is no stranger to performance and he can
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T2T: What is the genre of music you play and why is it your music of choice? I tend to gravitate towards Funk and dance music because that genre will ALWAYS be relevant to me. Something about an infectious drum pattern that goes back to tribal influences in our psyche, but couple that with a message of love, hope, or a personal reflection, and you have an experience that becomes meaningful to the listener. I DO want to experiment with different concepts, but they all have to return to the basic formula....because "good songs never die." T2T: Tell us about your group and record company? FreshBand featuring Tony Mack evolved from the group FreshBand that I was a part of back in the day. We scored an R&B classic with the song "Come Back Lover"that I co-wrote. That band was ORIGINALLY meant to be the "New Strikers (Body Music, Inch by Inch)"project; but then Strikers' producer Darryl Gibbs wanted a "Fresh Band." Voila! The first single, "Where Is Love"from the EP "Trezure the Love..."is the follow up to "Come Back Lover"and is not only still doing well but shot to #1 in France and stayed there for two months. Follow up single "A Woman Who Knows"two stepped people back to the dance floor...but the monster single is going to be "I.C.U."because everyone deserves to have some hard funk in their lives. The label Trezure Roxx Records is headed up by myself and VP Darryl Gibbs. We just signed a distribution deal with MPRE/SONY Orchard, so BIG things are scheduled to come out of our camp. The hotness began September 17, 2017 with the release of Crown Heights Affair featuring the legendary William Anderson's new single "Mary-Mary,"followed by FreshBand featuring Tony Mack's new single "For Always"with special guest appearance by Shannell Baynard, and a Smooth Jazz Hop act out of Philly, Philly Funkwave "Trezure the Luv..."Oh yeah...it's on!!! T2T: What legacy do you want to leave and why? Mmmmmmm.... There's so much more. So much more than what you are able to hear on the radio because music and artistry don't end there. Couple that, with those who have a voice.... use it. Use it to effect change... or at LEAST get people thinking and
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talking. Those that came before us set a standard that we NEED to not only live up to--but instill in those coming after us, to uphold. People are watching and listening to us so we need to be accountable. T2T: When does your album release and where can we purchase it? September 17, 2017 is the date! Mark, it down! Tell your friends, but more importantly, support the artist you like. We have to take back our industry because there's a generation who didn't experience what we did. I'm talking about the BEAUTY of an Earth Wind and Fire album cover!!!! Playing a Kool and the Gang VINYL LP over, and over, and over, and over, again. I could go on, but you get the point. I recently went to see Aretha Franklin at The Mann in Philadelphia (AMAZING by the way) and I made the comment about the "packed audience."but that it was not packed with people who looked like me. Right? The person I made the comment to said "...that's because we don't come out to support our artists..." (mic drop) T2T: What inspirational quote is your favorite to live by? Whoa...inspirational quote? There are 66 books I get mine from.... but I would have to quote Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgement you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of The Lord, and their righteousness is from Me says the Lord." Tony Mack has played with greats like: Freddie Jackson, Melba Moore, Kurtis Blow, Grand Master Flash, Crown Heights Affair, Shannon and Unlimited Touch to name a few. So, what does he and his band want you to remember about their new LP, Trezure the Love? The title track “Trezure the Love,” is a social commentary with a funk groove. This is in the vein of Marvin Gaye’s ‘"What’s Going On"and is very relevant for today; considering all that's happening with police violence. I think music can make a difference and bring light to social issues, but at the same time while we are being responsible, we can jam to a positive message, explains Tony.▄ You can keep up with their new music release and other projects on all of their social media sites. Be sure to LIKE and follow them to support a genre of music that will forever live in our hearts. FaceBook: FreshBand, Tony Mack and FreshBand, Trezure Roxx Records, Instagram: @TonyMack, FreshBand featuring Tony Mack, @Trezure Roxx Records Twitter: @TrezureRoxxRecords.
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T2T: Share something about yourself that you haven't told anyone, but it could inspire or encourage someone else. Something I haven't told anyone? Mmmmm.....There's a point that we all need to reach in our musical journey. "Freedom." Freedom to sing, write, and perform what you feel that matters, and feels right to you. Most of us are inhibited by the "success and bills need to get paid"factor, which I DEFINITELY understand. But that Freedom thing.... that's a sure sign of success to me.
J
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Sharaya J –
“A StAge SenSAtion”
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usic has never skipped a beat for Sharaya J. embracing her original Hawaiian roots while growing up in Jersey City, New Jersey, she has completely immersed herself in a world of new and undiscovered beats of music. Her father introduced her to the lifestyle of fame and performance through his involvement with the 90’s HipHop group, Double XX Posse. Sharaya J has proven to be a true performer when it comes to the likes of infamous artists such as Rihanna, P Diddy, and Alicia Keys. Sharaya J’s presence has never been a stranger to the stage.
Her collaborations with numerous choreographers, artists, and fashion designers have shaped her to become the true representation of a triple threat in multiple industries. Sharaya J teamed up with Alexander Wang in 2014 to be the center of his “T by Alexander Wang” campaign in addition to becoming a spokesperson and brand ambassador for his line. Expanding her own personal brand towards choreography, Sharaya J introduced a fresh new sound and style inspired by the true Hip-Hop and Jersey Club music, with her beginning the “Banji Movement”, which stands for “Be Authentic Never Jeopardize Individuality”. It is a program that encourages the people to embrace their own uniqueness and originality. Sharaya J has pioneered the way to create a sense of individuality in the music scene and to make it more enjoyable for artists to come out of their shell to bring unique visions to life. This year will bring new music off her debut EP Dope Product, Website www.sharayaj.com Instagram @banjiraya ▄
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Photographer: @julianwhitephoto Designer: @ianalexander_ MUA: @thankyoutheo Stylist: @_heluxxury_ Demetrius Terrell Boutique @shopspot86
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ARNITA COLE-SIE
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rnita Cole-Sie has been in the real estate business for the past sixteen years. Whether you are buying or selling in today’s real estate market, you need a professional with experience that can keep you informed of the current market conditions. When you are an informed consumer, you’ll make the best decisions for the most important purchase or sale one can make. For Buyers: Take a step of faith, and move from apartment living to enjoying the freedom of home ownership. I will put you in touch with a mortgage lender that can get you ready to purchase. Atlanta has a smorgasbord of new home subdivisions for buyers to choose from, in any size and any price range. I always advise my buyers to do their homework about each builder and I ensure them I will shop numerous subdivisions for exactly what they want. Just think, for every builder that cannot meet your requests, there are ten more that usually will. There is also a great deal of resale homes on the market. Whatever your home preference, call me today, and let’s put a plan in action! For Sellers: Now is the time to put your home on the market. Home values have gone up tremendously in the past few years, so you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to gain more than what you paid for your home. Most homes receive multiple offers within the first few days on the market. Call me today; I will do a market analysis for you and get your home sold quickly! ▄
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Arnita Cole-Sie Broker/Owner 678-663-1432 acolerealtor@yahoo.com P.O BOX 930220 Norcross, GA 30003
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