T2T Magazine Sept Oct 2009 by Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine

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PUBLISHER’S NOTES

ell, summer has come and gone and I hope it was safe, enjoyable and exciting for everyone! A summer filled with time to enjoy the simple things in life! I hope you are ready to now explore and engage in what this fall has to offer. In last month’s publication of Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine, we journeyed back to my hometown of Canton, WILLIE STEWART OH for two weekend performCEO/ PUBLISHER ances of inevitable excitement. One weekend encircled the World Renowned Pro Football Hall of Fame Game and the second weekend featured the captivating and motivating sounds of the O’Jays. This was a fabulous finale for this summer! The O’Jays’ Celebration weekend was such an inspirational event for me. I decided they deserved to be featured in this month’s publication of Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine, as well as the front cover. The O’Jays’ Celebration weekend incorporated several events: a concert, golf outing, a scholarship dinner, a parade and a free concert held in Nimisilla Park located at 1000 O’Jays Parkway. The Saturday evening concert in Fawcett Stadium brought in over 20,000 fans. I had the opportunity to speak with several of them, a few coming from as far as New York and California. The scholarship dinner featuring musical artists Johnny Gill and KiKi Sheppard (Apollo Theater), was absolutely an amazing event. All proceeds from each event of this fun-filled weekend benefited the O’Jays’ Scholarship Fund. The O’Jays’ Scholarship Fund was awarded to four outstanding youths in the Canton community. I must say much love goes out to the O’Jays. I will only be able to reminisce on this summer’s events because I know that next summer’s event will be even more exciting and vibrant than ever! Thanks goes out to the O’Jays for giving back to our hometown of Canton, OH! Beginning in this publication of Trendsetters to Trendsetters, we have decided to do a new feature called the “Female Powerhouse in America.” Our first featured Female Powerhouse is Ms. Susan Taylor, the “Tour de Force” behind Essence Magazine. We were given the opportunity to get a close up interview with her through Ms. Ava Simone Collier, the newest member of our management team, from Orlando, FL. Ms. Collier will be the writer in charge of the Female Powerhouse section in our upcoming publications. We are truly excited about having her on our staff. Ms. Collier is working diligently in preparation of our November/December publication, which will feature our next Female Powerhouse, Ms. Cathy Hughes, Founder of TV One and Radio One. Keep reading and sharing with others and we will keep writing and bringing on the publications. Thanks to all of you and God Bless, until our next publication. Willie Stewart

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Trendsetters to Trendsetters STAFF Willie Stewart / Canton, OH CEO / PUBLISHER Vanzella Duke /Atlanta, GA CFO / ASST. PUBLISHER Lindsay L. Powell / Atlanta, GA EXEC V.P. of BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Walter “Wallabe” Brewer / Columbus, OH ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTOR Erica Parks / Columbus, OH DIR. INTERNET MARKETING / PROMOTIONS (FACEBOOK, TWITTER, MYSPACE)

Leslie Dowd / Columbus, OH COPY EDITOR Teri Miller Barker / Dayton, OH Dawn De Berry / Phoenix, AZ Carla Daniels / Columbus, OH EDITORS Ava Simone Collier / Orlando, FL CONTRIBUTING WRITER / PUBLIC RELATIONS John Stone / Canton, OH Chiquandra C. Cross / Houston, TX Richard Thompson / Akron, OH Jacques Miles / Ecuador, S. America Amanda Stewart / Canton, OH Teri Miller Barker / Dayton, OH Tracy Washington / Akron, OH Corbin Cook / Atlanta, GA Lionel Locke / Augusta, GA Dr. Linda Amerson / Arlington, TX Angela Thomas / Miami, FL Dorothy Flake / Houston, TX Nikki Antwine / Houston, TX Tracy Hill / Fort Worth, TX CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Derek Payne DPI Graphic Design / Columbus, OH CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR & WEB DESIGNER 4

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2009

contents departments 03 07 10 14 16

Publishers Notes Up and Coming Trendsetters Education Community Heartbeat Business Trends

20 26 27 28 30 38 40

The O’Jay’s

Health and Fitness Trends Financial Trends Corporate Trends Legal Trends Inspirational Trends Beauty And Fashion Trends Arts And Entertainment

special feature 06 14 34 35

Female Powerhouse in America Community Heartbeat Peacekeepers The Dawn Angel Network

Ashford & Simpson

on the cover O’Jays photo cover by AP BOLDEN Photography

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MEDIA GROUP RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PUBLISH ANY MATERIALS RECEIVED. WE APPRECIATE ALL MATERIAL HOWEVER, SUBMISSIONS MUST BE OF A POSITIVE AND INFORMATIVE NATURE. PLEASE MAIL OR EMAIL ARTICLES TO WSTEWART@TRENDTOTRENDMAG.COM | TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MAGAZINE, 3007 PANOLA ROAD | SUITE 283C | LITHONIA, GA 30038 (404) 437-4311 OR 1-866-958-7363. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MEDIA GROUP

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Not On Our Watch: A Conversation with Susan L. Taylor By: Ava Simone Collier

T2T Magazine: Ms. Taylor, will you please tell us what your National CARES Mentoring Movement is and what inspired you to create such a movement? SLT: It’s a call to action to the African American community through mentoring relationships to help save a generation. It’s something that I started at Essence as Essence Cares. After Hurricane Katrina, I asked myself what could I ask our community and the tens of thousands of people gathering at the Essence Music Festival to do that would change the landscape of our community and really make a difference in the lives of our children. Mentoring is a low cost, high-result, easily-executed protocol. The celebrities came, the faith community came, the grassroots and political activists communities came and we launched. NCMM is not a mentoring organization. What we do is recruit mentors by connecting with them and directing them to local mentoring and youth support organizations. We are in 55 markets throughout the nation. In Little Rock, Arkansas 91% of black children are reading below grade level. Fifty eight percent of black forth graders across the board are functionally illiterate. Today as we sit here, one million black men are on lockdown or incarcerated – that has sapped the wealth and strength out of our community to lose so many men. We don’t have an answer for that…we talk about it and I’ve certainly written about it for years. Finally, I just said, no, let me get up and do something. I asked, “What the national plan for the recovery of our children and our community was.” We don’t have one. T2T Magazine: Why is this a “Movement” as opposed to a “program”? SLT: What we are creating is a “movement,” like the civil rights “movement,” the black power “movement,” the women’s “movement,” the gay rights “movement.” We’re

trying to shift the paradigm and create a new consciousness among able, stable black people of every class. We have a moral and spiritual responsibility that we are not fulfilling. When the call goes out for mentors, the first respondents are white women, then white men, then black women and then black men. If you look at the youth supporting organizations in our communities, you will see a long list of young black people waiting for mentors. Our white sisters and brothers are showing up in greater numbers and they always have in this area. We have a history of taking care of each other. When black people couldn’t count on anyone else, we always knew we could count on each other. It should be so natural to us. We’re not doing that anymore. There’s a tremendous gulf between poor black people and middle class and affluent black people. That gap is widening. We are not collaborating well. We’re working in silence, each of us doing our own thing. We should be linking arms and aims and presenting a united front making sure that the community survives.

UP AND COMING TRENDSETTERS

n the magazine publishing world, Susan L. Taylor is legendary. Ms. Taylor began her career with Essence Magazine as its fashion and beauty editor. She eventually became editor-in-chief and editorial director. During her tenure at Essence, Ms. Taylor authored the wonderfully inspirational and empowering column, “In The Spirit”. While she is now Editor-in-chief Emeritus of Essence Magazine, Ms. Taylor has moved on to a new endeavor. She is the CEO and Founder of National CARES Mentoring Movement (NCMM). I recently had the privilege of meeting Ms. Susan Taylor. We sat and talked about NCMM. She is gracious, warm and genuine. All of that and she’s stunningly beautiful also! Ms. Taylor embodies the essence and spirit of a God-led black woman with a vision and direction. She is truly inspiring.

T2T Magazine: What is your vision and ultimate goal for National CARES Mentoring Movement? SLT: It is our responsibility to really step into the lives of our young people who are losing ground and those who have slipped into peril and do for them what the generation before ours did for us. We’re not doing a good job yet. We need to prevent another lost generation. What we are trying to do at NCMM, through mentoring relationships, is become role models. Ideally we’d like to have one million able and capable adults to mentor one child or group, even if it’s for an hour per week. We are no where near our goal. It’s hard but nourishing work yet we shouldn’t have to do this work. All the crime that we see on the nightly news and read about in the daily paper is a cry for help…a cry for our attention. What we’re saying at NCMM is that we love you, we care for you and we’re not going to let you fall on our watch! T2T Magazine: How can T2T readers get more information about NCMM and how can we help? SLT: You can log onto our website at www.caresmentoring.com and connect with our national office and leaders in your communities who have created CARES Mentoring Movement circles. In those 55 markets, there is a presence and we need support. We need for people to come in and volunteer. Most youth support and mentoring organizations are only asking for an hour a week. We look at television for 4-5 hours a night. We’re asking black people to do this for our children. As black people we have a history of taking care of one another. We are our brother’s keepers. □ TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

2010 Broadway Play

Dreamgirls starring TREVON DAVIS

UP AND COMING TRENDSETTERS

2010 Broadway Tour of Dreamgirls. This production will take him to the famed Apollo Theater in New York City and across the globe as he plays the role of “C.C. White.” The website, www.DreamgirlsOnstage.com, gives full details of the up and coming shows. Trevon gives God all the glory for these wonderful opportunities to further his promising career as an actor, singer and songwriter. He understands that trusting in Him will take him farther than he can ever imagine! □

ATLANTA, GA

revon Davis is a 24-year old native of Flint, Michigan. He was born blessed with a passion for his spiritual-gift of performance; singing at the early age of 6 years old. In 2003, Trevon moved to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue a degree from Clark Atlanta University, graduating in 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Media Arts. The year 2007 proved to be a blessed season in Trevon’s life. In January of that year, he auditioned for MTV’s Making the Band 4 produced by Sean “Diddy” Combs, making it to New York City as a semi-finalist representing Atlanta. In August of the same year, Trevon auditioned for the premiere BET production, Sunday Best, hosted by the renowned, Kirk Franklin and judged by gospel icons, “Mary Mary” and BeBe Winans. Trevon was selected as one of the top 20 contestants to compete on BET’s Sunday Best, taped in Los Angeles, California. On Sunday Best, Trevon sang various songs as “The Reason Why I Sing,” “Sweepin’ Through the City,” and “Mary Don’t You Weep,” making it all the way to the final 7 contestants. Sunday Best was a blessing in Trevon’s career in that it opened many doors for national recognition and opportunities to further pursue his career goals in music and performance. Trevon Davis was recently cast as “C.C. White” in the 8

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VIBRANT 10 YEAR OLD GIRL :

MIRACLE BABY KEEPS RUNNING By Amanda Stewart

all of the obstacles and is a very productive person. Jayla began her early education with the local board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Delays (MRDD) and she struggled. At the age of six she was tested and told that she was mildly retarded and she was doing well for what she was capable of. Today she is reading in the top 20 percentile of her age group nationally Canton , OH and she consistently makes the honor and merit rolls. She enjoys learning and puts in the extra time and energy that it takes for her to excel. This is what makes her special; a sense of determination, responsibility and the belief that she can be an African-American history teacher or, better yet, a college professor of African-American History. □

UP AND COMING TRENDSETTERS

ayla Lee is a lively and vibrant ten year old girl. She loves to read, ride her bike, and make new friends. She spent the summer running track for the AAU and made it to nationals in the 100 meter dash and the anchor of the 4x100 relay. Although she did not make it to the final 8, she is ranked in the top 20 for her age group in the 100. When asked about it she says, “I will do better next year and I made some new friends from all over the country.” She was prouder of the fact that she ran on the same Drake University track as Michael Johnson and other track stars. It is back to school for the honor roll student who wants to be an African American history teacher. She spends her time learning facts about Blacks. All of this is great but what makes her story so special is the fact that she was born at only 6 months (twenty six weeks). Her mother’s water broke at 20 weeks (5 months) and Jayla had a slim chance of survival. She has had two heart surgeries, limited lung capacity and a brain hemorrhage. They did not believe that she would walk let alone run track. However, by the grace of God and excellent family support, she has overcome

Ebony Fathers serves as the web based beacon for all men experiencing the wonderment of fatherhood. Ebony Fathers’ unique community affords men and women an opportunity to experience the positive synergy associated with fatherhood and provides the long awaited voice for those who are so often falsely accused of not owning up to their responsibilities. Through our diverse talents we have created an environment where fathers, expectant fathers even grandfathers can go to be around, talk to and hear from people just like them. We at “EF” will bring you heart warming real stories of everyday fathers and sprinkle in an occasional celebrity dad. We will cover being a father from “A to Z” to include the good, the exceptional, the outstanding

WWW.EBONYFATHERS.COM TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Coca-Cola Company Gives $6 Million to Atlanta University Center and $1.2 Million to Robert Woodruff Library Photo by Clint Alexander

EDUCATION

Muhtar Kent, chairman and CEO, The Coca-Cola Company (center), presented the funds at the Robert W. Woodruff Library. Pictured L to R: Dr. Robert Franklin, Jr., president, Morehouse College; Ingrid Saunders Jones, senior vice president of Global Community Connections, The Coca-Cola Company; Dr. John Maupin, Jr., president, Morehouse School of Medicine; Loretta Parham, CEO, Robert Woodruff Library; Muhtar Kent, Beverly Tatum, president, Spelman College; Dr. Carlton Brown, president, Clark Atlanta University; Alex Cummings, chief administrative officer, The Coca-Cola Company.

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Solid Foundation Scholastic Program, Inc

For the Unique Learner An Alternative to Education

works with each child, transforming obstacles and weaknesses into strengths and opportunities. For the student, the outcome is not only improved academic performance, but better self-esteem, greater confidence Dr. Leslie Ashlock and a renewed joy in learning. Our students face a variety of challenges that often act as roadblocks in traditional schools. A few of these roadblocks include difficulty in reading or writing words or numbers, problems transferring thoughts to paper, trouble with organization and time management, failure to turn in homework, inability to concentrate in class, and/or a history of falling behind classmates academically. These roadblocks often perpetuate labels to be placed on students, which often lowers their self-esteem and causes them to believe that they are incapable of successfully doing the work. At Solid Foundation, academic work is modified to accommodate each student’s instructional level of achievement. Therefore, a student may be above, at, or below grade level for each subject area; teachers help every child strive for excellence at his or her level. There are other components that make Solid Foundation the ideal program to educate students with mild to moderate learning differences. Please call us at 770-469-3211 or visit www.solidfoundationinc.org to find out more about the program.

EDUCATION

ingle-strategy or “one-size-fits-all” approaches are not adequate solutions for preventing academic problems with our youth. To be most effective with students that learn differently, a multi-strategy approach that incorporates all learning modalities must be incorporated. Solid Foundation is a unique learning program that provides an inimitable learning environment for its students. Based on the components of the program, parents often ask if the program uses a Montessori approach or the Abeka curriculum. The answer is neither. The program was designed by the Founder, Dr. Leslie Ashlock, who worked in the school system 10 years before starting the program. The Solid Foundation “way” was developed through her dedicated years of experience through teaching and administration. The Solid Foundation “way” was developed through what she felt was missing from the public school for students that “learned differently.” If we are honest with ourselves, many of us have learning differences and difficulties in one area or another. Some people who are exceptionally skilled with language and even become English teachers have difficulty balancing their checkbooks. Others who are math gurus may never learn to spell proficiently. Many people never fail a subject in school but are at a complete loss when figuring out a diagram for making a simple house repair. Similarly, children may experience real success in some school subjects, yet find other school tasks very difficult, frustrating, or time consuming to complete.” Dr. Ashlock went on to explain that the program specializes in individuals with learning differences. Students who learn differently may appear to exhibit the characteristics of people with learning disabilities. It is only when these disabilities are so pervasive or severe that they markedly interfere with learning or day-today work habits, that a learning difference or a learning disability is suspected. Because of this, Solid Foundation

Readers Wanted!

Put the Fun Back into Learning to Read We learned words and their meaning by the way our parents used them in their sentences. Get Hooked on Sight Words uses the same method!

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cer he was not taking no for an answer. He said, it was very important to see me right away, the phone rang again and I did not pick up. He then told the officer he was my husband and he would wait at my desk because it was a matter of life or death. Understandingly, not knowing that my life was in danger the officer let him enter. But my abuser only intent was to kill. As I sat at my desk, I could feel tears rolling down my face. Not wanting anyone to see me upset, I went to the bathroom to gather my thoughts and regroup. As I applied my makeup, I suddenly heard a loud bang followed by my name being called. I was scared and ran into one of the stalls hiding from what I knew would be the end of my life if I was found. Two more shots rang out and people were screaming, crying and running everywhere. Some even came in the bathroom trying to hide, I was too scared to move or let them know I was in there hiding as well. We could hear the sirens of the police cars. All the time praying that he would be stopped before anyone gets hurt, we heard more shots. Minutes later police officers entered the bathroom letting us know it was safe to come out. Four people lay dead that day and my abuser was one of them along with three of my co-workers. My name may not be important to you but I pray my story will enlighten you to seek help if you are in an abusive relationship. Learn more about TearBear at www.tearbear.org □

EDUCATION

t was my problem and my secret, so why did it cost my co-workers their life? I would come to work every day believing it was my safe haven from my abusive home life. No one knew of my pain on the inside or about the bruises I would cover with make-up. I found myself wearing long sleeves on the hottest days. Although, I wanted so badly to reach out to others, I just couldn’t bring myself to reveal the honest truth about how almost every day I was hit, screamed at, belittled and tormented. I would often go in the office bathroom and cry because the work day was almost over and my abusing nightmare was about to start. I constantly told myself no one could or really wanted to help me. When I found out I was wrong, it was too late. The night before, I had been beaten and told I would be killed if I were to tell anyone. The next morning I applied make-up as usual and with my head down I entered my workplace. The threatening calls started right away. I received more than 10 calls in one hour. I didn’t report the calls to anyone, I now realize it should have been the first thing in which I should have did, to keep from having the horrifying result that happened only minutes after the last phone call informing me that my long time mate and abuser was on his way to my job. He entered and asked for me in the lobby. The security officer called my desk and informed me that I had a visitor. I told the officer to tell him that I was in a meeting and would see him once I got off work. He became enraged and told the offi-

Tear Says “it’s ok to tell” Let’s stop all abuse! NATIONAL HOTLINE NUMBERS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE – 1-800-799-7233 CHILD ABUSE-1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) ELDERLY ABUSE-1-800-677-1116 SEXUAL ABUSE-1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673) SPOUSAL ABUSE-1-800-228-7395 DRUG & ALCOHOL ABUSE-1-800-729-6686 ANIMAL ABUSE-1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) TO LEARN MORE VISIT:

www.tearbear.org TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

COMMUNITY HEARTBEAT

Photos by John Stone and Cyndee Reed

feel good just to look at it! A picture definitely is worth a thoufriend who often listened to John Stone ramble sand words. about changing the world told him he should John drives the message home, be President of the "Over three million people a year United States. John "We should never think of problems as die of water born illnesses, while responded by saying, “It wouldbeing beyond us; and therefore, something Canton is actually situated atop of n't work because his first order of business would be to change to avoid but rather more in the mathematical one of the world's largest fresh water aquifers, the National Anthem to the sense as puzzles, where everything has a making water our "Love Train"! Then we would have to live up to it”. John solution, and nothing is impossible, a side of natural resources. So why should we shared this story while we sat at impossibility itself.” John Stone not be a what he calls the "Pi Garden”, a spokes-model city for Clean Water for new flower and tree bed planted by a group of concerned Canthe World? It only takes about $2500 ton citizens during "B-Earth Day" in Nimisilla Park ("misilla" to supply clean drinking water to is Native American for "tree"). We discussed everything from 10,000 people, while we spend $6 the environment to humanitarianism. He explained how Nimillion on one 60 second Super Bowl misilla Park which is located at 1000 The O'Jays Parkway is ad.. So can we give clean water to the bordered by four city wards making it a heart with four chamworld with Love?" As John states, bers in the heart of Canton, Ohio which is the Origin Station “Every action matters and even inaction of the "Love Train". has as effect, as we see in the face of compiling As my mind drifts to the lyrics of the song (“people all litter." "I got tired of hearing people say, 'you around the world, join hands, start a love train…”), I thought can't change the world,' when, the truth is, to myself, “I’m missing something. Now I like the song and whether for good or bad, that is what people do!" he have seen The O’Jays perform it several times, and may have exclaims. "One of the biggest problems in the world is even danced to it, but the new National Anthem, hmmm…? that we all walk through it in a certain state of denial, as Back to John, he also informed me that he and some friends, we see things and think, 'oh, it's not my fault', and keep going. including Elec Simon, of the Broadway touring show But when we see something, it's ours, to do or deny, that is our "STOMP" (www.stomponline.com) have been coming to the only choice. Picking up litter can be a daunting task for one park in the evenings to have drum circles. "HeArtbeats", he person, but if everyone helped it would be great! calls them, as drums are a good metaphor for the beating of a And that is what HeArts Coming Together is about, promotheart. He continues, “Amanda, wouldn't it be great if everying awareness and connectivity, while showcasing individuals, body in the world had clean, healthy drinking water?” Then organizations and businesses with ideas and compassion to he hands me a flyer of his organization, HeArts Coming Tomake a positive difference. HeArts Coming Together sprouted gether. On one side is a picture that resembles the heartin Canton, Ohio with an open space conference at the shaped state of Ohio in the cracks of a dried lake bed with a McKinley Grand Hotel in April 2007, where people from plant sprouting from the Stark County/Canton area. On the around the country, and as far away as Argentina and Africa other side, there is a picture of Lauren Misja of the Living were invited to discuss The QUESTION: "What WILL We Do Fountain Dance Company (www.livingfountain.org) dancing To Change Our World, TODAY?" With emphasis on "WILL" in the water fountain in downtown Canton. The picture is absolutely breathtaking! It is so pure and free that it makes me and "TODAY", using the Amish as example, who build barns 14

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doing on the Love Train", he then hands me another HeArts Coming Together flyer which states, "We should never think of problems as being beyond us and, therefore, something to avoid but rather more in the mathematical sense as puzzles, where everything has a solution, and nothing is impossible, a side of impossibility itself.” What does all of this have to do with The O’Jays, "Love Train", John Stone, “HeArts Coming Together”, and Will Stewart, Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine? It’s HeArts Coming Together, the simple, puzzling equaThe Love Train is off tion…. □

and rolling

1) John Stone aboard the Love Train 2) Betty Smith (TV channel 11 “On Track with Betty Mac” interviews Eddie Lavert in front of the Love Train. 3) Cyndee Reed and Cherylann Hawk with railroad conductors 4) Will Roth, John Stone, Cherylann Hawk, Dr. Elizabeth Garcia-Grey, Dr.Rene Campbell, Cliff and Cherry Jarrett pose in front of the Love train. 5) Cherylann Hawk and Amy Starkey on Love Train Float at the O’Jays Homecoming Parade 6) Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine staff writers Amanda Stewart and John Stone in Nimisilla Park for a friendly photo TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

COMMUNITY HEARTBEAT

in as little as 5 hours. The results of this conference were profound. Many of the participants stayed connected and continued working together, including award Winning Psychiatrist, Disaster Relief Doctor and Phoenix Global Humanitarian Foundation (www.pghf.org) Founder, Elizabeth A. GarciaGray, MD (www.garcia-gray.com), who has worked in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and Tsunami in Thailand; Dr. Ashis Brahma (www.ashis.org), who has worked with The International Rescue Committee (www.theirc.org) in refugee camps in Darfur, and is featured in the CBS "60 Minutes" Documentary "Searching for Jacob"; Steve "LOVE LIFE" Fugate (http://www.trailtherapy.org/), who walked over 21,000 miles of the USA carrying a sign that says "LOVE LIFE" from Cincinnati (about 240 miles) to join the first HeArts Coming Together Conference where former Mayor, Janet Weir Creighton presented him with the Key to the City of Canton. As a major component, HeArts Coming Together desire is to make changing the world FUN! The 3rd Annual HeArts Coming Together Open Space Conference was recently held on the "Love Train Coach", sponsored by the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (www.cvsr.com), leaving its Origin Station of Canton, Ohio at 9:00 am on Saturday, August 15, 2009. Its purpose was to Raise awareness of how the simple, yet powerful concept of Love can change the direction of the world. John believes his view of humanity transcends race and other divisions. He refers to Colossians 3:10-17 in the Bible as, "what we are

GET IN THE GAME:

INVENTING YOUR IDEAS VOL 2 by John E. Johnson

Canton, OH

BUSINESS TRENDS

f you missed the last article of GET IN THE GAME, then check it out online July/Aug issue 2009. When we say get in the game, we’re talking about the necessary steps it takes to bring your ideas to market. PATENTING, PRODUCT DESIGN ENGINEERING/ PROTOTYPING, TOOL AND DIE/ MOLD MAKING, MANUFACTURING, PACKAGING, MARKETING, DISTRUBTION. Each article brings you closer to bringing your ideas to market. When your ducks are all in a row and you’re ready to go into production, a qualified Tool and Die or Mold Maker may fit the bill. It’s very important to have a good rapport with Mold Maker and Product Design Engineer. It is even more important that these two companies or individuals have a better rapport with each other than with you. Your Product Design Engineer and Mold Maker have your future in their hands. A strong foundation is very important and I think it is a great place to start. Jeff Wittensoldner is a second generation owner and son of the original empire builders of Witco Tool and Die. Jeff started from the bottom and worked his way up through the ranks. With over 40 years of tool building experience, all of their journeyman toolmakers have an average of 30 plus years in the tool and die trade. They utilize up to date CAD, CAM software and CNC machinery to turn your idea into reality. From prototype tooling that can make a few hundred units, to a production tool that can produce millions, they will build a mold that best suits your needs. They have the resources and know how to guide you through with your product design, all the way to a finished product. Trust and quality are two of the most important aspects they try to build with their customers. Their goal is to be able to treat your dream with the same enthusiasm and vigor as if it were their own. Do not hesitate to call us at 1-888-375-1022 or send an email to altimushygienics1@gmail.com. We are here to help. Do you have an idea and don’t know how to bring it to market. Then follow Trendsetter to Trendsetter Magazine each issue as John E. Johnson shows you the steps to take your product to market?

GET IN THE GAME: INVENT YOUR IDEAS. 16

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

(L to R) Jeff Wittensoldner owner of Witco Tool & Die, and Joe Behringer, mold maker

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PLANNING TO DO GOOD By Chiquandra C. Cross

* You need to identify your niche. Who are your constituents? Where do they live, work, shop, go to school, what do they do for recreation? How will they use your product or service? How will they benefit directly from your organization? How will your organization influence their lives? What immediate impact will your organization have and how will you measure your impact?

BUSINESS TRENDS

non-profit organization is often the offspring of a passionate person or group of people. The world is full of passionate people who are driven to make a difference on the local, national, and/or international level. Whenever we step outside of ourselves and commit to something greater we tap into synergistic energy that often manifests itself in organiza* You need to identify the appropriate docutional creation. A non-profit organization is ments you will need to file in your county and often the end result of an unmet need. When state in order to become a recognized nonthe need is identified and resources are pooled profit organization. You will also need to together a systemic difference is the result. draft bylaws and articles of incorporation and Think Susan G. Komen, Make-a-Wish FounHouston, TX any other governing documents. dation and the Houston Food Bank. Starting a non-profit organization is an * You may want to organize a founding committee to help endeavor that should not be taken lightly. When considering you determine your organizational structure, strategies and starting a non-profit it is important to ask yourself how your goals. This can be accomplished by creating a formalized goals and objectives will best be achieved by forming a nonbusiness plan. This living document should include goals, profit organization versus forming a for-profit organization. mission, and vision, operating policies and procedures and This determination can be made by considering the organizaorganizational structure. tionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose, constituents, revenue potential and governance. *You need to identify potential board members. Non-profit One of the biggest factors to consider when starting a nonorganizations are governed by a group of members called profit is accountability. Non-profits have moral and ethical board of directors. You can do this by considering your netobligations that require organizational integrity and transparwork and your networking skills. You will need members of ency. One guiding rule for non-profit organizations should both influence and affluence. Your board of directors must be to always put public good before personal interests. be committed to the vision and mission of the organization Before you file one document it is absolutely necessary and they must be willing to work hard. The board must be for you to consider the following: committed to using all of their personal and professional resources in order to help the organization become and remain * You need to identify your reasons for starting a non-profit. successful. What community need will you be fulfilling? Is your concept Operating a non-profit is just like running a business. original or is it an improvement upon an existing product or Many businesses fail because improper and incomplete planservice? What will make your organization different from ning. Be wise and be sure to avoid common mistakes by other non-profits? How will you market your goods and/or planning carefully and fully developing your organization. services? Chiquandra C. Cross is a coach and consultant specializing in small businesses and non-profit organizations. Ms. Cross has over 10 years of experience in non-profit consulting, including grant writing, organizational development and management, and strategic planning. She is also the owner of Destiny Consulting Services. www.destinyconsultingservices.com â&#x2013;Ą

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Bonding Glue Usage Causes Scalp Damage By Dr. Linda Amerson

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

ARLINGTON, TX

ave you ever had your hair weaved with bonding glue? If so, you may have permanently damaged your scalp, causing cicatricial alopecia. Many consumers and hair care professional are unaware of the fact that bonding glue is a rubber based product. This rubber based product is the same that is used to make rubber tires. As a result, many consumers may experience an allergic reaction, usually excessive itching or a burning sensation to the scalp. Furthermore, damage to the scalp may occur after the first application, and is sometimes irreversible. There are over 40 methods of hairweaving available. Consumers, you should become more selective in choosing a hair weave specialist, who is knowledgeable in other methods of hairweaving that will not damage your scalp. In addition, quality hair is also very important to achieve todays most natural looks. The main key to a professional hairweave is that it is natural looking and undetectable.

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

There have been nationally reported cases on weaved hair and hair for braiding of bold colors causing consumers to have allergic reactions, and other health problems. This is occuring mainly from the processes and the hair colors used to achieve these colors. Some examples of bold colors include: blue, red, green, orange, etc. Furthermore, when a hair weave service is given, make sure there is not excessive tension used on your scalp. If you allow this discomfort or pain to occur, you may also further experience traction alopecia, marginal alopecia, banded alopecia, cicatricial alopecia, folliculitis, inflammation, severe hair breakage, alopecia areata, and on goes the list. Your scalp does have a tolerance level, and can only stand limited pain, and/or tension. Seek the expertise of a doctor of trichology for an accurate microscopic evaluation and treatment recommendations. Dr. Linda Amerson may be contacted at (817) 265-8854 or www.hairandscalpessentials.com â&#x2013;Ą

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Worst

What’s the Thing Your Dentist Can Say? By Adrian Scott

iding your smile due to broken, missing, or stained teeth? Maybe your not smiling at all and avoiding certain foods because of fear of chipping, breaking or waking a dormant tooth that hurts occasionally and sends what feels like sharp lightening volts throughout your body? Is it bad breath? According to the American Dental Association dental health has improved in the U.S. however, periodontal disease (gum disease) has increased, is the #1 chronic childhood dental disease and the leading cause of tooth loss.

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

For many, any excuse will do to avoid going to the dentist, because the thought evokes an overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety. Despite efforts being made by dental professionals across America to create patient friendly environments. From dental spas and dental boutiques with extended hours, needless shots, drill less restorative procedures to improved techniques and technology.

mirror, grab a pen and paper and write down the dental challenges you have. If you haven’t been in a long time, don’t have insurance or just anxious just keep in mind, you have the power over your treatment and what will work for you in your current lifestyle.

Columbus, OH

So, keep a positive attitude, be proactive, take your time and prepare.

• How are your teeth effecting your day to day life? • What concerns you most are your desired outcomes? • Is this the time for long procedures or do you just need a What’s the worst thing your dentist could quick fix? • Figure out the time of day or days of week or weekend say? that works for you and find an office that’s accommodating. Floss, brush daily, use fluoride tooth paste? Or is it the • Have them send paper work ahead of time. stuff we already know or don’t want to know. Is it the fear • Call insurance company and get breakdown of benefits that the dentist may say, “Man who kisses that mouth,” or sent to you to give to front desk “WOW! Your breath is when you arrive along with ID. killer.” Maybe the thoughts “In most cases it’s our attitude of them running out of antowards the subject that holds us After your appointment ask youresthesia on the day you back. Attitude is everything.” self is this the right practice for decide to go. No insurance, you, did the dental team take time underinsured, bad experito understand your dental concerns or did he/she spend ence as a child or adult and the list goes on and on. In more time trying to change or focus on their desired outmost cases it’s our attitude towards the subject that holds come. us back. Attitude is everything. The reality is healthy gums and teeth are essential to your overall health and increasing your face value. Now isn’t the time to stay or merge onto the highway of complacency. Everyone is feeling the pinch of the economy and coming up with creative approaches to maintain and stay in business. Many dental practitioners will give free exams, x-rays, cleanings and teeth whitening to first time clients. They also offer discounts for clients who pay cash.

I know your truly concerned about the overall care of your teeth, take time to find a practitioner whose suitable for your current circumstances. Your dental issues didn’t happen over night and most likely wont be fixed over night.

Teeth Tips For Your Wallet or Purse

To Improved Dental Health, Adrian Scott Creative Dental Consultant/CEO The Dental Boutique www.thedentalboutique.info

So where do we begin? With you of course. You are your most valuable asset and it’s time to take a good look in the

There are many dental professionals out there who will help you find a way to receive treatment, and preserve your dignity in the process.

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

Judge Karen elevating Fitness game!

Judge Karen's visit to the "fat farm" Judge Karen spent two weeks at the Pritikin Longevity Center and Spa. She fondly refers to it as a "fat farm". Pritikin is a health resort and spa in the midst of one of Miami's premier properties, Turnberry Yacht Club engulfed by waterways, yachts and private golf courses. Judge Karen got a work-up, work-out, attended workshops and ate healthy meals such as bison, wild trout, sockeye salmon and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Each night she ate desserts such as chocolate mousse, baked apples and

Judge Karen with Ed Adams, Fitness Director for the Dubail Fitness Institute.

yogurt parfait with strawberries. She credits Pritikin with providing structure and discipline for her.

Indoor Fitness Boot Camp, Aquatic exercising and Walking Judge Karen laughs at her addiction for Fig Newtons. "I do not like the fig fruit but I love Fig Newtons.” Judge Karen intermittently played tennis until her coach passed away recently. She transitioned to Pritikin to help her keep her fitness goals. She joined an indoor "fitness boot camp" after the health spa. The boot camp is an eleven member, unisex workout coached by instructors with the same goals; working together to inspire and motivate each other. www.Elitemiamipersonaltraining.com.

Judge Karen's fitness challenge on Facebook Why Facebook? Judge Karen answered "while on hiatus, I social networked. Facebook allows you to meet people where they are and encourage them. I was surprised at the number of fans who accepted the fitness challenge." A. Larry, a fan from Orlando, Florida, set up the discussion board and entitled it Judge Karen's Fitness Challenge. A. Larry asked: “What exercise(s) are you doing each day and what do you find motivating for you?” Judge Karen posted: "I found an indoor boot camp that meets at 6:45am. I am walking and taking aquatics! Feeling and looking better each day keeps me on the road to success!!" □ TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

pirited and sassy Judge Karen is the TV personality of her own court show. Her show premiered in September 2008 as a nationally-syndicated American television show. It consistently gained prominence in the world of court TV with Judge Karen's famous quips as "Stay in your Lane, “I know how to Drive"; "Justice isn't always Black and White", " God protects babies and fools and you’re no baby", “Stop looking for a man to validate who you are" and “God don't like Ugly and the other part of that is He ain't that crazy about pretty.” Judge Karen's signatures are her hair, robe and chic jewelry.. She is likeable, entertaining and her fans love her! They love her infectious smile, mannerisms and facial expressions. What really blows them away is "Stay in your lane". Men and women have adopted this as their personal mantras. Many women use "stop looking for a man to validate who you are" as a guide. In April I had lunch with Judge Karen and Author and Motivational Speaker, Lisa Rogers-Cherry, at the popular seafood dive, Captain Jim's, in North Miami. Several people came to the table to exchange pleasantries despite the Judge being incognito. As we pondered the menu, Judge Karen watched her food intake and ordered accordingly. Since that lunch, Judge Karen became really serious about losing weight. I asked what changed? She said her "Aha" moment came this summer when her brother visited from St. Louis. As they mulled over family pictures, Judge Karen saw a picture from December 2005 when she was her best size. Her reaction pushed her to enroll in the Pritikin Longevity Center and Spa for help!

Concert photos by AP Bolden Photography Additional event photos by Tommie Brewer

10 8

COVER STORY

By DeLores Pressley

fter 50 plus years of making such international hits as "Back Stabbers," "For The Love Of Money," "Darlin' Darlin' Baby," "Love Train," "I Love Music," and "Use Ta Be My Girl”, The O'Jays still came back to the birthplace of the group, Canton, OH. The O’Jays came back to Canton to give back. I was only two years old in 1958 when the O’Jays formed their spectacular group in Canton, OH. All five of the original members (then called the Mascots), Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell, Bill Isles and Bobby Massey, were from Canton, OH and attended McKinley High School. In 1963 they renamed the group to the O’Jays after a Cleveland Disc Jockey, Eddie O’Jay. The other members dropped out. Sammy Strain joined the group and in 1963 Eric Grant replaced Strain. As I grew up, I would hear my family talking about the “Mighty Mighty O’Jays and their music was constantly playing in our home. I became one of their biggest fans. So when I was invited during the inception of the O’Jays’ Celebration Weekend 2005 (planning began in 2004) to serve on the committee, I was elated. It was an honor and privilege to be asked to be the Chairperson of Hostesses. This position involved scheduling hostesses to work at events and bring hospitality to the celebrity guests. As a member of the committee, it required a lot of hard work, time and dedication. The first year’s major focus was to honor the O’Jays, give a celebration concert, parade and rename

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

a portion of Mahoning Road to O’Jays Parkway. The O’Jays were so impressed with the support of the City of Canton that they decided to make it an annual event and give back even more to the community. It has gone strong since its inception. Each year the event grows and new and bigger events are added to the weekend. “I’m already working on getting Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder for next year” stated Eddie Levert to The Repository, a Canton daily newspaper. The O’Jays are loved by major celebrities and VIP’s have shown their support by attending the celebration. Some of the celebrities that I have been privileged to work with at events include Willie Gary (Esq., Attorney), Clifton Davis (actor), Lorenzo Williams (Esq., Attorney), Sam Jones (NBA legend), Marisa (The Apprentice), Donna Richardson Joyner (actress), Kiki Sheppard (actress), Sidney Miller (BRE Magazine), Don Barden (Casino Owner) and Tom Joyner (radio personality). I have worked with three Chairpersons of the O’Jays Celebration Weekend; Curtis Perry (Joy 1520am), Steve Perry (Pro Football Hall of Fame) and Stanley Williams (Timken Company). Each chairperson brought their own unique gifts and growth to the event. Over the years the two-day event grew into a three-day event to include a scholarship benefit concert, a scholarship banquet at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a golf tournament at the historic Clearview Golf Course and the O’Jays Family Reunion. This is an open-to-the-public “familyreunion-style” gathering featuring a parade, a youth basketball tournament, rides and games for children, food vendors and entertainment by various local talents at the O’Jays Parkway in www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

Celebration Weekend Photos

Northeast Canton. The 2009 scholarship benefit concert featured Frankie Beverly & Maze, Levert 2, The O’Jays and another legendary group, The Whispers. The scholarship banquet’s special guest was singer Johnny Gill. He sang several of his hits and performed a brief duo with Eddie Levert singing “Wind Beneath My Wing”. It was a very emotional moment. You could feel the presence of Gerald Levert. Prior to his death, Gerald was always present at the events. One of the scholarship recipients began to cry “he received his scholarship. This is the epitome of what the entire event is about. “It’s all about the scholarship recipients” states Eddie Levert. 2009 marks the fourth year since the inception of the scholarship fund which has raised over $200,000 with support of such contributors as The Timken Company, Aultman Hospital, Mercy Medical Center, Joy 1520 AM, A.B.L.E. Inc., Outback Steakhouse, Fifth Third Bank, The Timken Foundation, Steve and Sondra Perry, Canton Negro Oldtimers Association and Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. One of my fondest memories was being a personal hostess to Donna and Tom Joyner and taking my Goddaughter, Ashley Patterson, along. We road in the limo with the Joyners and hosted them during the golf outing and banquet. Ashley was a former recipient of the O’Jays Scholarship. She is now a Senior at Bowling Green University and will begin Law School in 2010. This annual celebration funds the O’Jays Scholarship. The scholarships provide opportunities for students to extend their education. Over the past five years a total of seventeen Stark County residents, both traditional and non-traditional stu-

1) 20,000 + fans enjoy the O’Jays concert with Whispers and Frankie Beverly and Maze 2) The Whispers 3) The O’Jays 4) Frankie Beverly 5) Betty Smith (Local TV Show Host) with Mayor of Canton, William J. Healy 6) Publisher Will Stewart and staff member Donald “DJ” Jackson 7) O’Jays with scholarship winners 8) KiKi Sheppard with Attorney Cory Minor Smith 9) DeLores Pressley with Eric Grant of the O’Jays at banquet 10) Eddie Levert and Johnny Gill sing duet at the scholarship banquet 11) Eddie Levert at the Clearview Golf Course before tournament 12) Stanley Williams of the Timken Company and Chairperson for the celebration weekend speaks to guest before festivities

dents (high school seniors and local community college attendees), have received scholarships of $2,000 each. Fans may be surprised to hear about some of the upcoming projects for the legendary O’Jays. Eddie has in store a solo project entitled The Levert Experience. He likes singing a little rock “n” roll like “Addicted to Love”. Walt just released a solo CD entitled, “Exposed”. Eric is working on a movie, “I Am My Brother’s Keeper”. It is a story of his life prior to his O’Jays experience. Don’t worry, they are still collaborating on new materials for a collective project and will release a new CD in the near future. They will continue to give and enrich our lives with their powerful music. DeLores Pressley, Motivational Speaker and Personal Power Expert, is an international motivational speaker, author, and the Founder of the Born Successful Institute. Her story has been touted in Glamour, Washington Post, Black Enterprise, Essence, New York Daily News, Ebony and Marie Claire. She is a frequent media guest and has been interviewed on every major network: (ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX) including America’s top rated shows; OPRAH and Entertainment Tonight. DeLores has authored Clean Out the Closet of Your Life, Believe in the Power of You and Crush the Box Thinking. To book her as a keynote speaker or life coach, contact her office at 330.649.9809 or via email at info@delorespressley.com or visit her website at www.delorespressley.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

COVER STORY

BY CORBIN COOK - LIGHTHOUSE FINANCIAL PARTNERS

MASTERING YOUR CASH FLOW = FINANCIAL SUCCESS

“Order Creates Confidence”

FINANCIAL TRENDS

It all begins by being aware of how you view, spend and save money. Managing your cash flow through a monthly or weekly budget is one way you can develop the discipline that it takes to make educated choices in life, run a business, and retire the way you want. This guide will not only help you develop a cash flow plan of action but can also serve as a cash flow awareness and maintenance tool. Before you get started consider these foundational concepts. Consideration 1: Set goals first. If you write out some short-term (one year or less) and long -term (more than one year) goals, you will then need a plan to help you reach the goals, and that’s where a budget comes in. Without goals, you may not have a good reason to manage your cash flow and create a budget. Consideration 2: Work together with your spouse or significant other. If you work on this plan with your spouse or significant other, you will work through your differences during the process. Everyone is different when it comes to how they view, spend and save money. Commitment is critical for any plan to be successful. Consideration 3: Don’t expect perfection. It’s going to take some time to get comfortable with a budget. You will definitely hit some road bumps. Give it a few months to work through the rough edges. Discuss with your spouse what’s working and what’s not, and then apply any needed adjustments. Consideration 4: Immediately start the plan. Just do it. Being aware of where your money is going each week is a good thing. If you had 10,000 extra dollars right now what would it mean to you? Is it a good time to invest? Do you need a new refrigerator? Is there a tuition payment coming up? Would you improve the backyard or upgrade the kitchen? Would you pay off a debt? Would you make your IRA contribution? Would it be a security blanket to cover any “what if” emergencies? Would your wife or husband feel less stress? Having a plan means having smart choices. Getting Started… Step 1: Identify sources of income: The first step is to write down all sources of income for the coming month so that you know exactly how much is coming in. Once you have identified all sources of income, calculate the total “in-flow” amount. If your income fluctuates due to sales, bonus, etc., know the least amount of income you could receive and the largest amount; this spread is your income range. Step 2: Identify all expenses: The next step is to write down all expenses or “out-flows” for the upcoming month. In cases where you have bills that come due every six months (such as auto insurance) or annually (such as neighborhood fees), you may want to figure the monthly cost to pay for those expenses and place them on 26

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

your handout also. For both food and gas I would overestimate and then pay attention to how much is actually spent on these needs. Keep in mind that while ATLANTA, GA you are completing a monthly budget, you need to consider expenses that come up seasonally. Some of these might be a clothing fund, birthday gifts, holiday gifts, sporting events and funds for traveling. When you think about your goals, make a list of your financial priorities and apply your budget to them accordingly. Step 3: Implement zero-based budgeting: You determine what comes in and what goes out. Zerobased budgeting means that you allocate every dollar of your income each month in a category that is on a monthly expense sheet. Dave Ramsey references this concept in his book The Total Money Makeover, and you may have seen it in other publications as well. In other words, if you have $4,000 in inflow, you should have $4,000 in out-flow, causing a net of zero. You are giving a home to every penny of income. This doesn’t mean that you spend every dollar. You will be allocating an amount that goes towards savings and investments. Ideally, you want to be saving and investing 10-15%. If you are not already able to do this, set you mind to get as close as possible and work up to it. After a couple of months of financial self awareness and a realistic view of your cash flow, set the goal to get there in full by a specific date. People have been successful by saving less; however, things have and are changing for retirees; success going forward, will absolutely depend on our ability to manage cash flow and make wise investment decisions. Step 4: Commit to your plan: Once you have achieved zero-based budgeting, and come to an agreement on the amounts on the monthly out-flow, it’s time to commit to your plan. What exactly does this look like? If you need to change the budget for an emergency, you can do that, but it’s important to rebalance immediately. For example, if you need more for automobile expenses by let’s say $100, you can increase that expense, but you need to remove $100 from another expense. Another sign of commitment might be that you are able to visualize the reason for having the plan, for example, a retirement full of traveling, $0 of debt, maybe imagine having a number in your savings and investment accounts, that new kitchen or boat, when nothing else comes to mind you could just visualize the peace of mind knowing that you are on track to accomplish your goals. Remember that a cash flow plan is not meant to act like handcuffs; but, is meant to make you aware of what you need and put you in control of what you want. Step 5: A new month means a revised budget: What’s the benefit to creating a new budget each month? With a budget, like other things, practice makes perfect. Each month you are armed with information from the previous month to create a more realistic cash flow plan for your money. If you are off during the first month, don’t quit; use that information to improve the plan next month. ►Continued on next page www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

ATLANTA LIFE FINANCIAL GROUP REOPENS THE ATLANTA LIFE GENERAL

ACTION POINTS: Save for budget breakers: As soon as you create this budget, the water heater will break, your kids will have an emergency, or some other problem will occur. If you don’t have the funds ready for these events, you might feel that you will never get control of your finances. How much in savings should you have? You will hear many different answers. One of the more common ideas is to pull 5% from each check and put that into a savings account. If you would like a round number, it makes sense to start with $500 to $1000 in savings. When you have to take money from that fund, remember it’s critical that you replenish it. The end goal is to have enough of a cash buffer to cover anywhere from six months to five years of expenses. The actual number really depends on what your personal needs may be and what your comfort level is.

minority and femaleowned-businesses,” Grimes added. Leonard P. Grimes Formed in 2000, the Atlanta Life General Agency closed in 2004 as the strategic goals of the parent Company changed to a corporate philosophy. With this reopening, the Atlanta Life General Agency is repositioned as a multi-line insurance broker with an offering of a wide range of insurance and financial services and products, including Property and Casualty, Personal Insurance, Employee Benefits, Retirement Benefits Banking and Pre-Need. Some of the on-going partners of Atlanta Life General Agency made comments of support about Atlanta Life and the re-opening of the General Agency. Franklin Reid, assistant vice president of the MetLife Auto & Home General Agency, said, “The partnership with Atlanta Life has presented an opportunity that has allowed MetLife, through its Auto & Home General Agency, to offer commercial insurance to many minority-owned businesses. This partnership extends our reach into the growing minority-owned business market.” □ .

Pay off your debt: In most cases, debt restricts your ability to achieve goals and it only makes sense to pay those debts off. Take time to write down each debt account you have (credit cards, loans, cars, etc.), the balance you owe on each and the interest you pay. Commit to paying off any consumer debts as quickly as possible. If this means living a less desirable lifestyle for a period of time then find a way to simplify how you live. You may choose to pay off smaller balances first or you may choose to pay the highest interest account first. Choose the way that gives you the greatest feeling of accomplishment and will keep you focused. For some people using software to keep them organized and on track is also useful. After each debt is paid off, apply the amount you were paying towards the next debt. This will accelerate the payoff time. The goal is to pay off your consumer debt and mortgage in order to redirect that cash flow towards building and living the lifestyle you want. □

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

CORPORATE TRENDS

tlanta Life Financial Group announces the reopening of the Atlanta Life General Agency. The Atlanta Life General Agency, a subsidiary of the flagship, Atlanta Life Insurance Company, reopens as an insurance brokerage boutique focusing on small to mid-sized minority and female owned businesses and corporations. Leonard P. Grimes, Chief Operating Officer of Atlanta Life Insurance Company, adds President and Chief Executive Officer, Atlanta Life General Agency to his duties. He will continue to report to William A. Clement, President and Chief Executive Officer, Atlanta Life Financial Group. “Mr. Grimes has a passion for the insurance industry, the experience and determination to make the General Agency a valued addition to the portfolio of Atlanta Life products and services,” said, William A. Clement, President and Chief Executive Officer, Atlanta Life Financial Group. “My team and I are excited about the opportunities that are in front of the Atlanta Life General Agency,” said Leonard P. Grimes, Chief Operating Officer, Atlanta Life Insurance Company, and President and Chief Executive Officer, Atlanta Life General Agency. “We believe that we are wellpositioned to meet the insurance and financial needs of a very important, but underserved business sector, mid-sized

Kionne L. McGhee, ESQ

hen people told Mcghee no, he asked “why not?” When naysayers replied, “your past experiences are filled with failures, he replied “a mere-I-CAN con-

quers all.”

LEGAL TRENDESTTERS

Kionne L. McGhee and his siblings were raised by a single mother on welfare inside one of Miami Florida’s most notorious housing projects "Naranja". McGhee was exposed to gun violence, murder, drug dealing, and many violent criminal acts all through-put his growing up. While attending Miami Dade public school he was: • Labeled emotionally handicapped from 1st grade through 12th grade • Suspended more than twenty time • Missed over 100 days from public school • Scored 580 out 1600 on the standard achievement test (SAT) • Graduated with a 2.0 GPA • Graduated number 252 out of 280 students

Miami, FL

McGhee lost both his father and brother to murder and saw many of young friends and neighbors in pools of blood riveted by bullets. It was not long before McGhee was in jail with the possibility of prison. With the help of a few, McGhee realized his struggles were not just black struggles or white struggles. He realized his struggle for better housing, education, jobs, and family life were American struggles. He knew deep down in his struggles were the ingredients for success. Determined to change his destiny o f f a i l ure, McGhee read great stories about remarkable Americans, i.e George Washing-

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

ton, Benjamin Franklin, Frederick Douglas, Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Theodore Roosevelt, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Changing his destiny, McGhee enrolled in Howard University the oldest HBCU where he earned his undergraduate degree. He went to Texas to study law and earned his Juris Doctorate degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Attorney McGhee interned with the First Court of Appeals in Houston, Texas, the United States Senate, NAACP regional office in Atlanta and in Miami the MiamiDade County Commissioner Dennis C Moss and the Law Office of Larry R. Handfield. Today, McGhee is an Assistant State Attorney (ASA) for Miami Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle of the 11th Judicial system. McGhee is a college professor, a national motivational/ keynote speaker who has been heard and seen by millions. He has authored his memoir: a mer[e] I-CAN is AMERICAN. He is founder and president of 2NOIT Media and Publishing. Attorney McGhee was featured on the reality television show “College Hill,” on the BET network; recognized by AT&T and the Miami Herald as a one of Miami’s Rising Voices and published in many different publications around the country. He is currently working on the release of his new talk show and second book. When not spending time with his wife Stacy, two children Kionne II and Hayley and family dog, McGhee serves as a mentor for the 5000 Role Models, tutors writing and reading to youth and advocates for students with exceptionalities and ex-offenders. He is a board member on many different organizationsin the community. Attorney McGhee’s journey led him to one final conclusion: the American Dream is neither material nor is it only available to a certain class or race of people. It is simply having a second chance to do what was not done the first time around. He believes his mere birth enabled him to be the beneficiary of the American Dream, while his hard work, hope, and determination to change his destiny revealed his life experiences were the ingredients for his success. To purchase his recently released book “a mer[e] I CAN is AMERICAN” go to www.kionnemcghee.com or any online bookstores Facebook KIONNE L. MCGHEE, ESQ. http://www.twitter.com/kionnemcghee □

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First Class INC

Attorney General Thurbert Baker Receives First Annual Barack Obama Political Leadership Award From The National Bar Association

It’s Good to Know… People & Organizations in the Legal Community

n 1992, BWL established the Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles Foundation ("BWL Foundation") pursuant to California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation Code, §5310(b). The BWL Foundation sponsors all of the charitable fundraising efforts of BWL, for which BWL intends to offer Internal Revenue Code §501(c)(3) treatment. Since 1975 BWL and its foundation has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships and grants to second and third year law students. To learn more, visit them online at:

www.blackwomenlawyersla.org

Image of founding BWL members or image from the early days of BWL TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

LEGAL TRENDESTTERS

act of domestic violence in he National Bar the presence of a child and Association he’s worked with local law (NBA) presented enforcement to fight family Georgia Attorney violence. General Thurbert Baker Prior to his service as Atwith its first annual Barack torney General, Baker served Obama Political Leadership for five terms in the Georgia Award at its 84th annual House of Representatives, meeting in San Diego, Caliincluding several years as the fornia on Friday. The award Floor Leader for thenrecognizes Baker’s pioneerGovernor Zell Miller. As ing achievements as a public Floor Leader, Baker led the servant and elected official. fight to pass some of the most Baker, a Democrat from Rodney G. Moore, president of the National Bar Association; significant legislation in modStone Mountain, is GeorThurbert Baker (honoree), Attorney General, State of Georgia; ern Georgia history, including gia’s first African-American and Mavis Theassa Thompson, president-elect of the National the institution of the state Attorney General, having Bar Association. Photo by Eugene Mebane lottery and the lottery-funded served in the office since HOPE Scholarship program. 1997. During this time, he He was the lead sponsor of the largest tax cut in Georgia has been the only elected African-American Attorney General history – the removal of the state sales tax on groceries. He in the nation. He is also the only African American to be also led the fight to pass tough new laws against drunk drivelected by his colleagues to serve as the president of the 102 ing, strengthening the state’s notoriously weak, outdated year old National Association of Attorneys General. drunk driving laws, and helped bring Georgia to the forefront As Attorney General Baker has successfully managed the in the battle against DUI. state’s legal affairs for more than two decades. He has always made protecting families and children a top priority. He proBaker, now a Democratic candidate for Governor of Geormoted tough new laws against sexual predators who target gia, said, “I am humbled and honored to be the first person to children via the Internet, and has aggressively worked with receive the National Bar Association’s Barack Obama Award. local prosecutors and police to bring those who target children I hope to live up to the honor by continuing to bring people online to justice. Baker has also been a leading voice against together to solve the tough problems facing Georgia.” □ domestic violence. He fought to make it a crime to commit an

LIVING WITH EXPECTATION By Tracy Y. Washington

INSPIRATIONAL

surface. We have the desire to move ost of us want to Akron, OH forward, but our subconscious mind be somewhere that drives our behavior says we can’t other than where or that we shouldn’t. Do any of the we are right following behavior patterns sound now. We want different, better or familiar: Procrastination? Uncermore. We have dreams, desires tainty? Fear? Feeling unworthy? The and visions that are not part of our list could go on and on. I believe that current reality. Perhaps it’s more each and every one on this earth has a money, a spouse, a better job or a desire to move their lives forward, but new house. What does it take for some don’t know how to because of anyone to achieve dreams? Faith. their belief system. The hope or exPersistence. Perseverance. Hard pectation that their lives could ever be Work. It’s conceivable these inbetter than their current reality is gredients are the recipe for success, something that “other people” do. but if it were that simple, wouldn’t This is a myth. ALL of us have been everyone be successful and living given the ability to dream and have the life of their dreams? vision for something greater than ourStudies have shown the subconselves. The problem with people who scious mind is what really deternever pursue their dreams or set any mines what we believe about ourgoals is that they live without hope or selves and the world around us. expectation. I don’t necessarily beHow is this information transmitlieve that it’s because they don’t want ted to our subconscious? Our conscious mind absorbs information to become successful, it’s that they from our current realities and past don’t “believe” that they can be. experiences. Most of us behave, What is this thought process of low make decisions and live our lives expectations based on – past experibased on what we believe in our ences or memories embedded in the subconscious. How does this all subconscious mind? happen? We consciously make a To overcome this state of low exdecision about what we want or pectation, the subconscious mind To book Tracy, please call (330)328-0694 believe and that message is then must be re-programmed to change the or Visit: transferred to our subconscious belief system. This is no small feat. It www.FashionYourSoul.com or mind. What often happens is that takes time and making right decisions. the subconscious mind stores It requires making the choice to take info@FashionYourSoul.com memories of past events and exaction even though the outcome is not periences and when the directive to clear. It entails moving beyond fear do or act differently is given and not asking the “what ifs” and the through our thoughts or the ques“how’s”. When we learn to live with tions we ask ourselves, those memories of past experiences expectations of a better tomorrow, our vision changes and surface. Whenever new information is presented that the subhow we view the world around us begins to look different. conscious mind has no recollection of, we tend to become We can see the tremendous amount of opportunities and refearful because we have nothing in our subconscious to base sources that were around us all the time but we weren’t in this new piece of information upon. position to see them because we had no expectation that they Many of us block our own blessings because we are feareven existed! □ ful. This fear lies within the subconscious mind beneath the

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

Miami, FL

INSPIRATIONAL

e all want to be accepted and loved; Just like the kind of love that God shares from up above. It is not a love that is here today and then gone tomorrow. It is always the same and here to stay. Not just the kind of love I hear about, it’s the kind of love I read about (1 Corinthians 13:4). It’s tells me that, if you have not love than you have not yet lived. We can do all things that are good but, if we didn’t do it with love from the heart, it does not profit or benefit us. When we truly love and our hearts is right, we are more willing to give selfless, and expect nothing in return for our love. Here where we stand today, we love one another today and walk away from another tomorrow. When we truly love someone, we stand by them no matter what may come or go. True love puts up with people who would be easier to just give up on, or walk away from. Love is not selfish, just thinking of oneself benefits. It is able to believe all things and have hope for everything. When we love someone we recognize problems and failures in people, but we do not lose faith in the possibilities of what people might become. Stand by them and support them, it gives them the courage to succeed at every task that presents itself. Finally, love endures all things. Not, only the things you may want but, what they want as well. Love accepts any hardship or rejection, and continues unabated to build up and encourage.

Photo by Fashion Photography

By Angela M. Thomas

“Inspirational” Author/Writer/Speaker Author Angela M. Thomas CPC, has been featured in several publications, radio interviews and newspapers/magazines around the world. She is a seven-time author and a retired Miami-Dade Correctional officer. www.AngelaMThomas.com SheerPurrfection P.O. Box 700098 Miami, Florida 33170 (305)793-1347

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

VOL 3 By Barbara Campbell

San Antonio, TX

INSPIRATIONAL

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

hy in the world am I here, what is my purpose in life? I knew God had a purpose for me, however, I didn’t realize the cost. My sisterin-law was diagnosed with cancer at age 28 in 1982, which was my first date with cancer. As I watched her deal with breast cancer, I was shown my life’s purpose, although I couldn’t understand it then. When she displayed the destruction of her breast from cancer, it was certainly a sight to see. There are many persons with purposes different from mine, however, mine is very unique from everyone else’s. I had two nieces also diagnosed with breast cancer; and had the same experience of viewing their breasts as an open sore that didn’t heal. As I watched their mother change their bandages and drains, I wondered what was going through her mind not one daughter, but two diagnosed with cancer. I ‘m Chantal’s mother and she was diagnosed at 23 with breast cancer. Chantal was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and a triple negative in 2007, she experienced a lumpectomy, bilateral mastectomy, and last but not least, several rounds of very harsh chemotherapy and 17 treatments of radiation. That is when the vision “JOY KEEPER” was launched to assist them with every day living. Although the hardship touched me, I never fully grasped the depths of despair until now. I couldn’t fathom then, but I now understand God’s preparation for my life’s purpose. I couldn’t put my hand on it then; but now I’m certain. I didn’t understand the trials because I was not personally affected. But it had a lot to do with me, especially when my mother was diagnosed. I began to wonder first my nieces, mother and then my daughter is this God’s plan for my life? The plan was to spread God’s Word into their lives and to let them know that God is in control. My daughter, Chantal confirmed it when she stated, “Mom it would be nice if there was a program to help breast cancer patients and their family with maid service, childcare, lawn service, weekend get-aways, etc for free.” That would make their life a little easier to manage. I know this because you made it so nice for me to go through it with the tender loving care you provided for me.” I truly believe that God planted this seed through my family members who lost there lives to this disease. God is the Director of healing and He is the Director of my FAITH. My relationship with God has greatly flourished. I believe that survivorship demands the responsibility to become an advocate. My daughter is eager to share her testimony and the challenges that God has blessed her to overcome. There are many others who will have similar experiences to those who have had dates with cancer. Whether if you’re 18, 20, 30 or 50; you have hopes, dreams, tears, and obstacles to overcome your date with cancer as a caretaker. I am on a mission to encourage and inspire others too. The battle can be won with God in your life, so let God take control. □ Thank You, Barbara Campbell, Founder www.joykeeper.org www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

A Dream Delayed By Richard Thompson

where from 7 to 10 years in prison as an innocent man. Even though the Bible says that God granted favor on Joseph by his promotion to head trustee, where he acquired more skills for the mission that God had for his life, Joseph is still a man not Akron, OH an angel. Regardless of how much faith he may have, there were days in those 7 to 10 years that he wondered where his God was and will he ever be free? Joseph felt despair just like anyone of us would if we were in his situation. For those who doubt, read Genesis Chapter 40: 14-15. In the end we know that Joseph was able to use the power of his God given gift of spiritual discernment to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh who then appointed Joseph Prime Minister of the Kingdom, second only to Pharaoh in stature and power. It was after his appointment to Prime Minister that Joseph finally realized God’s ultimate plan for his life. The lesson to be learned from the story of Joseph is that even when it seems like your life is in the prison of despair; God is obligated to keep the visionary promise of your deliverance even when we may not believe that He will.

INSPIRATIONAL

he story of Joseph is my favorite story in the Bible. The main reason I love this story is that despite all of the hardships, the loneliness and betrayals Joseph experienced from the age of 17 to the age of 30, the vision that God gave to Joseph as a young boy came to fruition. What some of you may not understand or want to acknowledge is that God allowed all of the hardship that Joseph faced for 13 years to occur before Joseph became the Prime Minister in Egypt. It was God who allowed Joseph to be sold to merchants instead of having him killed by his brothers because God was obligated to keep Joseph alive by whatever means necessary in order to fulfill Joseph’s destiny. It was God who allowed Joseph to be sold into slavery to Potiphar, a man who was a very important Egyptian government official, in order for the destiny of Joseph to be fulfilled. During his time as a slave, Joseph began to acquire some of the skills necessary for the position of authority he did not know he would have in the future. And because of his humanity, we can ascertain that Joseph was not always happy being a slave to another man regardless of the favor God placed in his masters’ home because Joseph lived there. Would you be happy being a slave to anyone if you were once a free human being? I think not. When Joseph was placed in prison after being falsely accused of attempting to seduce the wife of his master, it was God who stepped in once again to save Joseph from being executed by his master. Again, God was obligated to keep His visionary promise to Joseph. Most Biblical scholars estimate that Joseph spent any-

Richard Thompson is a freelance writer and can be reached at thmpsnmic@gmail.com. □

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Houston, TX

PEACE KEEPERS

he ENOTA Project born out of the mind and work of its founder, Captain Dennis Muhammad in 1995, is a comprehensive training and consulting organization which focuses on helping police departments and communities to effectively address the broad range of issues they face day to day and better prepares both to more effectively and positively respond to crisis. Muhammad has worked diligently for more than 30 years to strengthen and build communities to become responsible for their destinies and has craft-fully fused his concepts and expertise into the development and execution of the ENOTA project. With the understanding that the police cannot effectively solve the problems of crime and violence without the support and aid of that community, we present to you E.N.O.T.A.. The ENOTA Project has proven to be a very essential tool in bridging the gap between the community and law enforcement. Training has also helped in fighting the increasing rise of youth gun violence. The ENOTA Project addresses these problems by creating a partnership between the two communities.

The non-existing trust and respect between the community and law enforcement makes it impossible for us to work together to solve the problems which plague the urban areas throughout our country. There is a serious distrust that the majority of our youth and the community at large have for police officers. The perception among most communities is that there exists among the police department a code of silence “blue wall” which means that police protect one another rather right or wrong. The perception of the police is that the same code or walls of silence exist among some communities, such as the “Stop Snitching” campaign that most police believe is being promoted by Rappers. In order to create a more honest and effective dialogue, both walls must come down. It is only then that we can begin to address the problems of these communities with a united front, strong and resolute. We believe ENOTA has the potential, if given the proper commitment from both law enforcement and community it can change the fate of our communities. □

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2.) D.A.W.N. sends out the need or “call to action” to the "Network Angels" 3.) The “Network Angels” follow the related instructions and provide help to meet the need

DAWN ANGEL NETWORK

t has always been my dream to be a great philanthropist. My admiration runs deep for the likes of Oprah, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Bill Cosby, Bono, and the countless others who seem to give tirelessly of time, resources, and talents to help others. Witnessing these great “givers” in action has always inspired me to want to follow their lead. Like so many, I used to think that I had to wait until I became a millionaire to really affect change in the world. I used to say, “When the Lord blesses me with a million dollars, I’m going to help people!” But, really the first person who needed help was me. I had to learn that in order to affect permanent, positive change in the world, it was critical to become aligned with the purpose God had planned for my life. Doing the work to discover the answer to this “mystery” resulted in a huge shift in my perception …a miracle for my mind. I realized that this “miracle” was my “million!” God had simply changed my heart and made me see “giving” in a brand new way. I learned that love and compassion that overflows from the heart cannot help but be shared with others. And this has nothing to do with a bank account balance. After this new discovery, I had an epiphany. I was given a directive to organize my wealth of connections into a network to help people in need. My travels and experiences throughout the years had left me with the privilege of knowing some awesome people with a heart for service and a passion for helping others. I consider these people to be “angels.” The idea was to connect people in need to my network of angels who love to serve and have the desire to help others….right now. In 2006, Dawn’s Angel Wish Network (D.A.W.N.) was born for the purpose of connecting needs with resources.

Akron, OH

Simple concept, powerful results. In each future issue of Trendsetters To Trendsetters Magazine, Dawn’s Angel Wish Network will highlight a featured need. You are invited to participate as a Network Angel by providing resources, information, or by simply communicating the featured need to your own network. The needs featured may be related to business, community, personal, etc. Find out more about Dawn’s Angel Wish Network by visiting www.DawnsAngelWishNetwork.com. As a Network Angel, you may sign up to receive the featured need each month via email. Also, if you have a need, please let us know! Although we receive numerous inquiries and cannot fulfill every need, each request will receive a response. We hope that you will check Trendsetters To Trendsetters Magazine each issue for Dawn’s Angel Wish Network’s featured request. There is no act of kindness too small that will not make a huge difference in someone’s life. See you next issue!! With Love & Gratitude, Dawn Mitchell, Founder Dawn’s Angel Wish Network www.DawnsAngelWishNetwork.com

Here's how Dawn’s Angel Wish Network works: 1.) Each month, D.A.W.N. finds (and thoroughly screens) a "need"

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine and Ujima Theatre Company (Columbus, OH) Visits the 2009 National Black Theatre Festival ney Potier, August Wilson, Larry Leon Hamlin, and Lloyd Richards, as well as the festival’s first annual Winston-Salem Urban League Endowment Scholarship awarded to a UNC 1 School of the Arts student, in the name of the late founder and his widow, Sylvia SprinkleHamlin. This event, themed “Black Theatre Holy Ground, continues to honor its people, it’s craft, and it’s founder. In a word, albeit indigenous to NBTF and invented by Larry Leon Hamlin by combining two words marvelous and fantastic, The National Black Theatre Festival on its 20th, succeeds in being one “Marvtastic” event all should plan to attend every time. □

By Brian K. Jones

EVENT TRENDS

he purple carpet was rolled out in Winston-Salem, NC once again, as they hosted the 20th National Black Theater Festival (NTBF), which showcased black theater to audiences coming from all over the world. The event was kicked off this year by an opening day parade, press conference, the arrival of the more than 50 celebrities from television, film, and stage, and a reception, to welcome back the 65,000 attendees, which took place August 3rd - 8th. The brainchild of founder, producer and director, the late Larry Leon Hamlin, who passed in 2007, the festival featured over 100 stellar shows held in 11 venues, as well as films, seminars, workshops, poetry jams and networking opportunities for audiences, actors, playwrights, scholars, and others in the industry. High profile names, such as Maya Angelou, John Amos, Ted Lange, Melba Moore, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Ella Joyce, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Kim Wayans, provided some of the the star power needed to draw crowds, but other recognizable names, just as noteworthy showed up as well, in the portrayals of the Tuskegee Airmen, Emmett Till, Rosa Parks, Josephine Baker, Billie Holiday, and Teddy Pendergrass. The festival, coined as being “An international celebration and reunion of spirit,” also included various theater achievement awards presented during the opening ceremony, adorned with the names of such prominent black theatre figures as Sid-

2 3

AT A GLANCE: 1. John Amos pictured with Ron

Pitts, CEO of Ujima Theatre Company; 2. Wendy Raquel Robinson and Ted Lange, Co-Chairs; 3. Ujima Theatre Staff with Actor John Amos; 4. Actor Jeff Obafemi Carr (The Second Chance) and Woddie King, recipient of the Sidney Poitier Lifelong Achievement Award

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Hold National Meeting in Atlanta Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter to Host 14th Annual Conference Judge Penny Brown Reynolds and Comedian Steve Harvey Top List of Special Guests

Robertson, Prudential’s representative. Atlanta members of NCBW who are in leadership positions and who are working to bring this national conference to downtown Atlanta include Cynthia Williams, president of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and Virginia Harris , chairperson of the 14th NCBW Conference . Ms. Harris is a member of the National Board of Directors of NCBW along with Yvonne Wiltz. About the National Coalition of 100 Black Women 7,500 members plus, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. is a non-profit advocacy organization with a mission to empower African American women through greater access to education, political strength, business opportunities and civic responsibility. The Atlanta Metropolitan Chapter, and other local chapters throughout the country, is dedicated to community service, leadership development, and advocacy through delivering highly effective programs and services that benefit families, women and youth. □

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

EVENT TRENDS

he National Coalition of 100 Black Women (NCBW) will bring approximately 500 women to Atlanta on October 7 through 11 to participate in their 14th Annual Conference which is being held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Bold Leadership, Strong Advocacy, and Progressive Vision – Strengthening our Connections, the conference theme, sets the tone of the four-day deliberations. The conference opens with a public meeting featuring Steve Harvey as the special guest speaker on Wednesday, October 7th, 2009 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Distinguished Service Awards presented at this event include Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin; Barbara W. DeBaptiste, immediate past president of the National Women’s Hall of Fame and a former national president of NCBW; Coach C. Vivian Stringer, Rutgers University basketball coach; Elder Bernice King, author, motivational speaker and associate pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church; and Clark Atlanta University President Dr. Carlton Brown. Atlanta’s Kathleen Bertrand is on program to provide music. The plenary session on Thursday, October 8th is devoted to “Education: A Vision for Educating our Children for the Future.” Editor-in-Chief Emeritus of Essence Magazine Susan Taylor, is the kick-off speaker with Dr. Joshua Murfree, Albany State University, and Dr. Portia H. Shields, Concordia College, also on the program. A noon luncheon with Judge Penny Brown Reynolds leading a “Dialogue on Education -- School Reform: How to Close the Generation Gap,” rounds out the public events. Macy’s will host a 6:30 p.m. reception and special shopping opportunity at their Lenox Square store for the members of the NCBW attending the conference. On Friday, October 9th, the plenary session takes on the issues of “Strong Black Women’s Health Matters.” The panel of speakers include Dr. Hazel D. Dean, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Center for Disease Control and Prevention who will discuss HIV/AIDs in the Black Community. Dr. Shelia A. Robinson, cardiologist, will speak about the “Heart of a Black Woman;” and Dr. Valerie Beckles, medical director at Aetna, will discuss “Eliminating Health Disparities.” Friday’s luncheon is all about “Leadership in a Time of Change” and features Senior White House Staff Russlynn H. Ali, assistant secretary of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education. Saturday’s highlight is a morning health education session sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim – “Sexual Heritage: What Our Mothers Never Shared, but What We Need to Know,” – with panelists Dr. Gloria Richard-Davis, Women’s Health Research at Meharry Medical College in Memphis; and Dr. Janet E. Taylor, psychiatrist (private practice). The final plenary session focuses on “Economic Development: Facing our Financial Future with Boldness.” Speakers at this event are Michael V. Roberts, the Roberts Companies; and Shirley Ann

MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

Recognizing couples that manage to keep in together at home and in the workplace.

Pastor Sheldon and Shala Brown Canton, OH

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

astors Sheldon L. Brown and Shala L. Brown, are a husband and wife “ministry team” that are of Vision and Faith, who live their lives as transparent vessels of God's service. They are truly "Mission Minded" about the Kingdom Of God. In 2003, they would found Breath of Life Christian Center of Winter Haven, FL., in July 2003 in the ballroom of The Holiday Inn Hotel. After ministering in Florida for five years, God spoke again and told him, “it is time to go back home to build the walls of the city.” In May 2008 Pastors Sheldon and Shala relocated to Canton, OH, with a vision to make ministry relative and applicable to the lives and needs of young adults and youth in their community. On July 13, 2008, Breath of Life Christian Center opened its doors and many gave their lives to Christ. Pastor Sheldon says, “I knew from that service that we were where we were supposed to be doing what we were supposed to be doing.” Since then they have outgrown that location and moved to a bigger facility to accommodate the rapid growth. “More than 200 people attend Sunday services,” Brown said. We are in the developmental stages of adding an additional service on Sunday, as well as continuing our outreach programs in schools and throughout the community. It is our goal to empower and impact our community. Eventually we would like to hold services at the Canton Memorial Civic Center where people from many different races and backgrounds can come together to Glorify God. We have to reach all people and ages with the message of Jesus Christ and all that he has done for the salvation, liberation and emancipation of all people. For more information please visit us on the web www.thebolcc.com □

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Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson

MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

he vocal and compositional duo of Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson has offered a unique example of a creative and personal collaboration that has lasted and flourished in both realms. Joining forces in the early 1960s, they became part of the legendary stable of composers surrounding Detroit's Motown label, that decade's most successful purveyor of black popular music. With songwriting credits that included some of Motown's most memorable romantic pieces, they had already compiled an enviable record of accomplishments even before embarking on a successful career as recording and performing artists in their own right. By the late 1990s, Ashford and Simpson had become permanently identified with a kind of love song that fewer and fewer performers had cultivated over the years: the ballad of mature and unshakable love. And the duo wrote about what they knew firsthand. Although the creative partnership between them preceded and gave birth to the personal one--their marriage postdating their first composition by ten years--Ashford and Simpson truly lived and worked together. At the century's end they were still active as recording artists, radio personalities, and restaurateurs, and their music was a staple of radio formats aimed at an older, more mature audience. Nickolas "Nick" Ashford was born in Fairfield, South Carolina, on May 4, 1942 (some sources give the year as 1943), but grew up in Willow Run, Michigan, an auto-manufacturing area just west of Detroit. His father was a construction worker. He sang in a gospel choir as a youngster and acquired a solid education, finishing high school and attending nearby Eastern Michigan College (now Eastern Michigan University) for one semester. To his parents' dismay, however, Ashford then dropped out of college and headed for New York with only $57 in his pocket, hoping to make it as a singer or dancer. At first he could only find work in a restaurant, and to satisfy his musical appetite he began attending Harlem's White Rock Baptist Church, where he met Valerie Simpson, a member of the choir and a recent high school graduate who, like Ashford, had strong musical aspirations. "She put me in a spin," Ashford was quoted as saying by Irwin Stambler in the Encyclopedia of Pop, Rock & Soul. Simpson was born in New York on August 26, 1946 (some sources give the date of 1948). It would be some years before Ashford and Simpson entered into a committed relationship, but they continued to live in Harlem and to attend the same church throughout their careers. â&#x2013;Ą

New York

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

Levert II The Music Continues…. By Ava Simone Collier

song that came after Sean passed. Things can happen in an instant. If you had a chance to say something to someone one more time, what would you say? This is how the song came about. The Ojays are singing with us on What a Woman.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Blaq Rose is the other half of this very talented duo. Here’s what he had to say:

recently spoke with Marc Gordon and Blaq Rose of Levert II. Their newest CD entitled Dedication was released on July 13, 2009. Dedication is in honor of the late Gerald and Sean Levert. It’s definitely a must have in your CD collection! Visit their website at www.levert2.com or www.levertii.ning.com. Levert II is currently on a promotional tour. Marc Gordon is the last original member and shared his thoughts with me on the new CD. T2T: Marc, on what level is Dedication a personal endeavor to you? MG: After Gerald passed, Sean and I were in contact and decided to put this band back together. Some time after everything died down, that’s what we set out to do. Sean and I met up with Rose and things clicked and we started working on the project. Towards the end, Sean passed. That was another blow. These were people I started my music career with, traveled the world with and all of a sudden they’re not here. It’s been very emotional and personal. For me to express it I had to do it with keeping the music going. That’s been the best therapy for me. T2T: Sean Jr., Eddie Levert and the OJays are also featured on Dedication. Is this a part of the Levert legacy? MG: Yes. Sean Jr. is singing on the track My Brotha. The song, Dedication, was originally dedicated to Gerald. We couldn’t believe that this is what it was but we were going to keep it going. My Brotha was the 40

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

T2T: Rose, what’s it like being a part of such a legendary group? BR: It’s an honor to carry on this legacy. I grew up listening to Levert and the Ojays. I never expected to be here but it’s great. My former group sang for Gerald when I was younger. He loved us and thought we were very talented. He already had another group at the time but encouraged us to keep going. Later on Marc and I hooked up through a mutual friend. We kept in touch and eventually connected. Sean came to meet me and our chemistry worked. T2T: What do you bring that is uniquely yours to Levert II? BR: I bring my own flava and blend it with the traditional. Marc didn’t want another G e rald..there was no replacing him. Still, Marc was looking for the chemistry to be right. This new person would need to do more than just sing. They would have to be able to write and perform as well. We would have to “click” in the studio. It’s a bridge from old school to new school. T2T: What is the significance of the name Levert II? BR: Levert II represents the 2nd round. Also it represents that two soldiers have gone home and two of us, Marc and I, are still carrying on the legacy. □

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Large and In Charge! By: Ava Simone Collier

ave Tolliver was one half of the famed 90’s R&B duo, Men At Large. Today the multi-faceted, talented singer and songwriter is busier than ever. To find out more about Dave visit him at www.myspace.com/davetolliver. The Cleveland native is now living in Atlanta where I recently caught up with him. T2T: Dave, you’re a very busy and versatile guy. Tell us what you’re doing these days?

T2T: Blaq Pavarotti is an interesting title. Is there a story behind that?

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DT: My newest project is entitled Blaq Pavarotti. I didn’t do a lot of love ballads. I did some upbeat younger type of songs that deal with the mature subject matters…life, love and relationships. That’s what I write about. These are things that everyone from every social corner can relate to. I believe that Blaq Pavarotti may be my greatest work to date, especially the writing. I think there’s more to come but I think it’s the way the album is put together. I think it’s a great project and is the album of 2009. I’m just working on putting it out there. You can put this album on and not skip one song…I guarantee it!

DT: Well, Pavarotti is obviously the greatest tenor of all time. I became a fan of his by always seeing him on P B S . Then they brought him into the mainstream. I just feel like I’m one of the greatest tenors around right now. I just put “Blaq” in front it and spelled it with a “q” to take any racial spin off of it. I’m a tenor, but I can sing soprano and alto also. What I did was an independent online release. I released it through CDbaby.com/CD/davetolliver. You can buy the entire CD there and also through I-tunes, Napster and Amazon…pretty much all the online legitimate musical websites. T2T: Dave, you’re a singer and songwriter. Tell me what else you’ve got going on. DT: I’ve done 13 stage plays so far. I’ve been onstage with everyone from Clifton Powell, Bern Nadette Stanis, Dave Hollister and Melba Moore. I’m also in a film called Love’s Triangle where I play an attorney named “John Billamore”. I’m also doing another movie called Five Days in the A where I play a construction worker. Five Days is a straight to DVD release but there have been some limited showings at some Atlanta theatres. I also have my own artist development company, T.C.M.G. T2T: Which do you like more, singing or acting? DT: I really love it all. Stage is a combination of both. For me I get to act and sing. I just love entertainment… it’s a beautiful life and I couldn’t ask for a better situation. I love it. I think that probably singing would have to be number one for me. It’s been my consistent bread winner. When I’m on stage, singing takes me away from what’s uncomfortable and takes me to another place. Some people get high to escape reality. I get high in my music. It helps me to relax. □

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

of Sou nd s TIVA TING CAP The

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TREVIANCE

rts and Entertainment Director Walter “Wallabe” Brewer had a chance to sit down and interview Treviance. (“Tre”) She’s not only just an artist, but writer, wife, mother and singer, Treviance has a charm that is indicative to her home state of Georgia. Blessed to be filled with her gift for music, Treviance’s album has church soul that caters to urban pop culture, which gives her a fresh sound for this new era of music. Her lyrics and high quality tracks share reality driven songs tell distinctive stories about life and everyday situations. Off her new album “Breathe” my personal favorite is a song titled “Kevin”. She has a video that was shot in sunny California. I honestly feel that her album is one of the better projects I have heard this year. Her music is refreshing with acoustic instruments and vintage sounds. Reminiscent of the old 60's and 70's soul era. Each song on the album is full of the same passion that catapulted artist's such as Marvin Gaye, Betty Wright, Carol King and more modern soul crooners like Alicia Keys and Angie Stone. With modern and nostalgic production from the soul pioneer Montrel Darrett and heavy street anthems from new comer Ron Mayo, you get every thing from church soul to urban pop culture crossover hits. Such a “Sweet and Chasing Those Troubles Away" and with more heart touching anthems such as "Think About It" which is derivative of a soldier come home song. As a new artist Tre brings promise and redemption to modern soul music. The worst mistake we can make would be to confine this artist and record to one genre. This record promises to breathe new life in to the music industry

The Facts: Treviance has sung back ground for Montrel Darrett on songs such as "Let Him In" featuring Montrel, Dave Hollister (formally of the group Black Street) and Marcus Cole (member of the famed gospel group Commission). Treviance also sang back ground on the song "Champion" 42

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

for Montrel Darrett featuring Jason Champion. Treviance has worked with Ronnie Diamond of the Ohio Players and Sean Scales producer for Keith Wonder Boy and Tiffany Palmer Bastiani. Treviance was one third of the singing group "Divine" with Lead singer Tia Stewart (Tia toured extensively with Gerald Lavert until his passing). Treviance has done commercial work in advertisement doing voice overs for companies such as Sonesta Beach Resort in beautiful Bermuda. Deeply rooted in her faith Tre has sung in choirs and praise teams blessing believers with her crooner’s voice.

Interesting Fact: She along with Montrel Darrett and Ron Mayo wrote the songs freestyle while in the booth thus keeping the artistic ideals, fresh and free spirited. Often Tre can be found talking with and encouraging every day people allowing her life and actions be a light. Treviance has a charm that is indicative to her home state of Georgia. Treviance’s new project “Breathe” reassures the listener that can have peace within as they war with day to day struggles. “Breathe is now available online. Go to the following links: Wal-Mart: http://mp3.walmart.com/store/search? action=all&keyword=treviance Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/ B001JYR9K0?ie=UTF8&parent=B001KT08PC Rhapsody: http://www.rhapsody.com/treviance/tracks.html Itunes: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/ wa/viewArtist?id=128036958

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www.myspace.com/cwinborn

COREY WINBORN COLUMBUS, OH

BEAUTY & FASHION TRENDS

got my start at 15. My mother had a sewing machine and we didn't have much money, so I would take the clothes I did have and alter them to make them different from everyone else's out here. I did that up into my 20's then I went around asking local tailors for assistance which didn't garner any help, it's a secret society of knowledge that you can't really just ask for. I decided to teach myself how to make clothing from scratch. I would go to the thrift shop and buy something then take it apart to see how it was made and then I got to the point where I could literally put it back together. Then I started working with vests. I've always loved them as a kid but I started making and wearing them. This is long before they came back into style like they are now. Then women's clothing . I've always had a great imagination, so I would just come up with concepts and bring them to life. I'm 40 now and I have a great following but I'm not there yet...I'm just on the road to my destiny.

What Makes Your Size Sexy? Is it the way you rip the runway? Maybe the way you rock the Jimmy Choo shoe. What about the layered look of the Indian Remy on your shoulders? Could it possibly be the glistening from the Mac lip gloss on your lips? How about the way you stand in a room full of impressionable teen girls and tell your testimony of how God brought you out of low self esteem. Then again, it could be the way you allowed yourself to be the shoulder to cry on for the teen girl that just opened up and expressed how she had mean molested for years by her mother’s boyfriend. It could possibly be the time you spent encouraging the abused, full figured women with low self esteem that in her father’s eyes she is a queen and he has so much more for her. Or maybe even the years you spent obtaining your degree in child sociology because of your passion and need to understand and help the children find a positive way. We have come to the realization that this article and its contents in its entirety is what make our size sexy. Being sexy is a state of mind whether you are a size 2 or a 22. Once presented to men of different walks of life “What is sexy to you?” 98% of them responded “her confidence and the way she carries herself is what’s sexy to me.” Not one man stated a specific dress size. Therefore we as plus size women encourage you to take the time today to identify what makes your size sexy?

SizeSexyDiva N’Charge To obtain more information about or organization or for speaking engagements or fashion events please check out our website

To obtain more information about or organization or for speaking engagements or fashion events please check out our website www.sizesexydivas.com SizeSexyDivas Inc. PO Box 263 Fresno Texas, 77545

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

BEAUTY & FASHION TRENDS

reetings Trendsetters, OK…we’ve successfully made it through summertime and the beginning of fall maintaining our radiant skin and healthy nails and now we need to focus on something even more noticeable and eye-catching…our “kissers”. Yes, our LIPS. So of course, one may be asking, “Why are lips so important?” or, “Why do lips need special care?” These are both really good questions because many of us don’t pay close attention to what we apply to our lips as long as it gives them that luscious shine or that sexy color that complements our outfit for the day. Well, the reality of it is everyone should be very protective of their lips because their exposed membrane structure does not have the same protective outer layer, or stratum corneum, found in other skin; nor do lips have the same complement of oil and sweat glands. Sweat glands add moisture to skin, but the lips' only source of moisture is saliva inside the mouth. Thus, harsh winter wind, cold, sun and dryness makes lips a vulnerable target for chapping. Chapped lips are what cause us to run out and purchase at least five different lip treatments searching for the “one” that heals and moisturizes our lips instantly!! In our quest for the perfect balm, we often come across many “bombs” in other words, products that do not offer any healing or conditioning properties or actually even worsen chapped lips. When selecting a lip balm, one of the most important factors to consider is the top two or three ingredients. Natural oils and butters such as jojoba oil, olive oil, shea butter and coconut oil are excellent emollients which condition, soothe and soften. ► Continued on Page 46

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

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SUCCESSFUL CAMOUFLAGING OPTIONS for HAIRLOSS and THINNING By Dr. Dorothy S. Flake

at-home maintenance is very important. Exfoliation should be done gently with the right product to easily lift off the makeup residue. Cleaning pores properly is the key to striking balance. This will ensure that you do not block growth because of undue clogging or prevent growth because of undue scratching. The last thing for you to remember is NOT to scratch your scalp. Scratching could further damage hair follicles at the root or the roots themselves. Always remember, when applying camouflage makeup, cover only the empty or emptier parts of the scalp. Be Blessed,

Dr. Dorothy

Houston, TX

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009

BEAUTY & FASHION TRENDS

he way to understand how to use camouflage makeup to hide hair loss and thinning is to first acknowledge that the skin on your face is very different from the skin that covers your scalp. The makeup for scalp coverage has to be designed so the skin on the scalp can absorb it. Scalp skin is harder to get through than facial skin. Here are a few examples of camouflage options on the market today: ALOPECIA MASKING LOTION: Dab on with applicators for two minutes. Tinted cream is applied to thinning and open areas of the scalp. HAIR BUILDING FIBERS: Shake on for 30 seconds. A tinted spray temporarily bonds appropriately tinted fibers to your thinning hair to create density. TOPICAL SHADING with Pressed Powder: Dab on with applicator, two minutes or more. Tinted powder helps fill in where scalp is blank and swells hair strands for fullness. TEXTURIZING SPRAY THICKNER: Spray on for 30 seconds. Tinted spray covers bald spots and bonds fibers to your hair to create density and color throughout. It is important to exfoliate the scalp once a week. This tip for

Balm or “Bomb” Cont from page 44 Next you should see bees wax or plant wax. These ingredients work synergistically with the emollients to form a protective and moisturizing layer on the lips. Vitamin E is the best preservative as it is natural and super moisturizing! Another key point to note is to never use products that contain petrolatum or alcohol; these additives will worsen the condition and will make your chapped lips feel even dryer and more painful. Additionally, studies show that the best performing lip balms are the ones that are just soft enough to glide on smooth, but just firm enough to create a thick layer that stays on your lips longer. Before we make a mad dash for some super emollient, smooth gliding lip “balm” let’s not forget about the sunscreen that is an added bonus offered in many lip products on the market today. Sunscreens are especially important for the lips because they are more vulnerable to sun and heat exposure. For those of us not familiar with the Sun Protection Factor, commonly referred to as SPF; this number determines how much UVB ray absorption a person can withstand. For example a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will delay the onset of sunburn in a person who would otherwise burn in 10 minutes to burn in 150 minutes. The SPF 15 sunscreen allows a person to stay out in the sun 15 times longer. SPF15 is also the minimum recommended protection for our lips so take heed and don’t forget to read the labels carefully! And as always for those of you who don’t know, TraChic Bodywear has an awesome daily lip conditioner---it is called Emu Essentials as it contains emu oil that is known for its non-allergenic, soothing and healing properties--this multi purpose oil also helps give it a smooth application. Shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax and vitamin E also help formulate this lip-pleasing balm…oh and the cherry flavor is just an added extra…. wear it under lip stick or for a natural look, apply it to the lips add a little liner and it’s TraChic! It’s definitely worth a try. Please tune in to Volume 4 fashionably titled, “I Can’t Believe its NOT Butter!”….The Truth about Body Butters Best Regards and Beautiful Skin, Tracy, TrāChic Bodywear- President/Chemist For TraChic Bodywear product information/orders/distribution requests, please visit: www.trachicbodywear.com or call: 817.235.4085

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009