VMH MAGAZINE - ISSUE 33

THE BEST WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY

VMH LIFESTYLE. BUSINESS. ENTERTAINMENT

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ISSUE 33

WHEN A CAREER CHOOSES YOU AUTHOR/TALK SHOW HOST IRENE FORD-SMITH

5 Simple

Isaa Rae Joins American Express & USBC Supporting Black-owned Businesses

Natural Ways to

Boost Immunity

BECAUSE SHE'S A Ivy Shades Success Advice New Release

BLACK WOMAN

Saletha Oliver Turned Her Childhood Dream Into a Reality

VMHMAGAZINE.COM

SIMPLE SELF-CARE

TIPS YOU’LL LOVE

TAKE

YOUR

BUSINESS

TRAVEL

TO

THE

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Issa Rae Joins American Express & USBC Supporting Black Businesses

We have only scratched the surface of the collective power of Black businesses, so I am excited to join American Express and the USBC to shine a light on the opportunities ByBlack presents. ”

American Express and the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) announced the expansion of ByBlack with the first national certification program exclusively for Black-ownership designation. First created as a directory of Black-owned businesses, the no-cost, digital platform will now unlock more ways to reach new customers and secure contracts for Blackowned businesses across the country. ByBlack provides businesses an approved accreditation trusted by customers and enables consumers and other companies to easily find U.S.-based Black-owned businesses. Businesses can begin the ByBlack certification process or create a directory profile here: usblackchambers.org/certification.

Ron Busby, president, USBC says: “The success of Black-owned businesses benefits the communities they anchor and in turn, the country at large. The Black business community generates more than $150 billion in revenue but has even larger potential.

Working with American Express, we are continuing to expand ByBlack across the U.S. to help further propel the growth of Black-owned businesses by creating unparalleled access, visibility and opportunities.”

According to the Shop Small Summer Study from American Express, 44% of consumers seek out Black-owned businesses, and 55% say they would be likely to use an official, easy-toaccess digital database that certifies a business as being Black-owned.

Emmy-nominated actor, writer, producer and entrepreneur Issa Rae recently certified her business Sienna Naturals with the hopes of reaching more customers and encouraging other Black business owners to do the same.

Issa Rae says: “We have only scratched the surface of the collective power of Black businesses, so I am excited to join American Express and the USBC to shine a light on the

opportunities ByBlack presents. ByBlack is a powerful platform that connects Black business owners with new revenue streams and helps all of us find and shop at standout businesses. Together we can spread the word to support small Black businesses.”

The certification program also benefits large corporations, which can use ByBlack to find diverse suppliers to fulfill their business needs and deliver on pledges to diversity spending with Black-owned businesses.

Jessica Ling, senior vice president, Global B2B Marketing, American Express says:“American Express is committed to increasing our spending with Black-owned suppliers to at least $100 million annually by the end of 2024, and we will use the ByBlack platform to help achieve this goal. We encourage other corporations to join us in leveraging the ByBlack platform to find certified Black-owned businesses and to enhance their supplier diversity programs.”

Other companies now recognizing the ByBlack certification include Uber and Verizon. The no-cost certification process is quick and simple. To start the process, businesses need to provide proof of identification, that their business is 51% Black-owned, and is controlled by a Black business owner. It takes about 30 minutes to complete the online application which will be processed and certified in about 30 days.

Businesses can also register on the ByBlack directory by creating a profile. The directory enables Black-owned businesses to network, partner with others in the community, increase their visibility and expand revenue opportunities.

ByBlack also provides education and resources specifically for Black-owned businesses, including access to USBC and American Express sponsored events, grantmaking and funding programs, local chambers of commerce in their community, networking opportunities and more.

This initiative is part of the USBC and American Express’ broader efforts to support Black-owned businesses.

As the national voice of Black business, the USBC is committed to a set of principles and programs that lay out a vision and committed action for policymakers and business leaders to empower the Black business community, prepare the next generation of Black entrepreneurs and bolster the American economy.

As part of its $1 billion action plan to enhance diverse representation and promote equal opportunities, American Express is committed to providing access to capital and financial education to at least 250,000 Black-owned small and medium-sized businesses in the U.S. by the end of 2024.

Additional information about American Express’ support for Black-owned businesses can be found in a detailed fact sheet here.

ABOUT US

Shining the light on some of the greatest thought leaders in business, fashion, entertainment, and technology.

Through our website, podcast, social media platforms and digital publication VMH Magazine is a source of inspiration and information igniting the spectrum of lifestyle content.

VMH MAGAZINE BELIEVE IN YOUR IDEA VMH magazine is your resource for business, entertainment, innovative thinking, and overall lifestyle improvement..

"Make yourself seen and heard."

– @vmhmagazine

SIMPLE SELF-CARE TIPS YOU’LL LOVE

When easing into a new year, many experts encourage more

everywhere, when you show your feet the love they deserve, it

self-care. From paying more attention to your mental health

shows, and can help you feel better literally from head to toe.

to pampering yourself from head to toe, now is the perfect

Even if you’re not comfortable going back to the salon just yet,

time to start showing yourself a little extra love.

you don’t have to sacrifice self-care. For example, the Amope foot care line is easy to use at home so you can get long-

Make time to decompress. The past year shows that every rose comes with thorns, like working from home or legitimately needing to shop online. Managing a work-home balance may be harder than ever and late deliveries can make those online orders a real headache. Add the challenge of staying healthy, less social interaction and

lasting hydration and visible results. An option like the Pedi Perfect Electronic Foot File uses finely ground diamond crystals to smooth hard skin effortlessly, and you can wrap up your home pedicure with coconut oil-enriched PediMasks that leave your feet soft, smooth and nourished in just 20 minutes.

worries about the economy, and stress is probably a constant in many lives. That’s why it’s important to take a step back and unwind. Lock yourself away for 30 minutes of quiet time so you can let those stress endorphins settle down. Read a book, listen to music, meditate or simply be, without interruptions or demands.

Maintain social connections. Contact with friends and family outside your home may look different than it has in the past but nurturing those relationships can be an important aspect of self-care. Regular contact with loved ones, even if it’s just by text, phone or video, can help curb loneliness, reduce boredom and lift your spirits.

Keep up familiar routines. Even if you’re sticking closer to home, skipping your normal beauty routines can throw you off

Set goals and start chasing them. If you feel like time is

your game. Make it a point to get dressed and ready for a

standing still, you’re not alone. However, setting goals and

day as if you’re planning to be out and about. Looking your

working toward them can help you feel more productive and

best can translate into feeling your best, and it means you’re

accomplished. You may be surprised what you can achieve,

ready for a surprise video call or a days-late delivery you

from starting a new fitness routine or learning a new language

weren’t expecting.

Give special care to your “sole-mates.” They may not be at the top of your beauty regime, but your feet are the toughest, hardest-working part of your body. Because they take you

to finally organizing an overrun closet.

Put yourself at the center of your love story and find more ideas for satisfying self-care at amope.com.

SOURCE: Amope

“I have chosen to be happy because it is good for my health.” – Voltaire

"Be true to you and your ideas."

– @iamvikkijones

What is THE SIMPLICITY OF INDULGING ONES PASSION

Ignite Passion for Your Work and Thrive

Passion Stimulates Value & Success If you have dreams, goals, and aspirational things you want to do with your life, go for it! Associate with people who will add to you and your goals versus take away from them. Get away from those folks that don’t support your idea, and surround yourself with people that support and value you - help you grow.

@vmhmagazine

GOING VIRAL SMALL BUSINESS OWNER ALICIA SHAPIRA The CBS daytime show, “The Doctors” found New Image Beauty Bar after they went viral on TikTok with over 45 million views. They invited the founder, Alicia Shapira and her leading Permanent Makeup Studio and Academy based in Coral Springs, FL, to be featured on the daytime hit show. New Image Beauty Bar was asked to demonstrate their revolutionary Brazilian Stretch Mark and Scar Camouflage Treatment.

Alicia decided to donate this service and selected Necole, a single mother with a full time job working as a clerk for the Legislature in New York.

Necole had inquired about getting Stretch Mark Camouflage Treatment, but was unable to afford the service.

Alicia knew it was the perfect opportunity to shine the light on Necole and give her the gift the she had been waiting for. New Image Beauty Bar flew Necole to Florida and provided the Brazilian Stretch Mark Camouflage Procedure free of charge.

Alicia is the first in the US to offer Brazilian Stretch Mark and Scar Camouflage, Scar and Under Eye Lightening Treatments. Alicia has revolutionized the industry through her technique and training. New Image Beauty Bar has gone viral with over 45 million views on social media.

This unique specialized Brazilian Camouflage procedure blends discolored stretch marks into a natural skin tone, using a form of tattooing which is considered permanent.

Alicia also specializes in her very own FDA approved Vitamin Scar Lightening and Inkless Camouflage Treatment. New Image Beauty Bar works with Plastic Surgeons, OBGYN’s and Dermatologists assisting with Scar Lightening and Brazilian Camouflage Treatments for their patients by improving the appearance of scars on both dark and light skin.

Alicia Shapira is also making a name for herself as an educator in the beauty services industry and in the world by offering classes for her specialized techniques and treatments. New Image Beauty Bar services and educational training not only draw attention from clients and students all around the world, but also make Florida their destination to learn or receive treatment by Alicia and her New Image Beauty Bar staff.

The one procedure I am most proud of (is).. the Brazilian stretch mark and scar camouflage tattoo.

– @newimagebeautybar

The

DESIGN

More than 3 in 5 homeowners have a fireplace or other hearth product in their homes, according to the HPBA, and including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift of warmth, comfort and ambiance you can give yourself. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home and a safe, reliable heat source in the event of unexpected weather.

Update Lighting Fixtures Proper lighting can bring rooms to life and make spaces look larger and more welcoming.

You can brighten up your home in a variety of ways, from strategically placing table and floor lamps that fit your design style to replacing older ceiling and wall-mounted fixtures with more modern styles.

5 EYE-CATCHING WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME FAMILY FEATURES

Your home is a reflection of you, and your decor should match your tastes.

With some simple home upgrades, you can create the perfect space for you and your family, even if your design preferences change over time.

“When we’re designing our ideal home, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time.”

Consider these ideas to get started: Add a Fresh Coat of Paint One of the easiest home improvement projects, a fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a room. Whether you choose to paint the entire space one new color, opt for an accent wall in a vibrant shade or simply freshen up the trim, paint can go a long way toward adding visual appeal and reflecting your personality. Patterned wallpaper, board and batten, stone and tile can also be added to create textured accents.

Bring Warmth and Ambience with a Fireplace “A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize,” Goldman said. “October is National Fireplace Month, a time to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or stove can bring to a home.”

Give Cabinetry a Fresh Look There are numerous easy ways to update your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to create a more updated look. One of the easiest is swapping out older cabinet pulls and knobs for more modern options. With a variety of finishes – stainless, bronze, brushed nickel, black, copper and more – and styles available, you can match your cabinets to nearly any design style in a matter of minutes. Adding a coat of stain or paint is also a relatively quick and easy way to update some of the most-used spaces in your home without completely replacing the cabinets.

Upcycle Furniture You can breathe new life into your current furniture by making simple changes. The easiest would be simply rearranging your pieces and moving some to different rooms to create an updated look. You can also add decorative covers to sofas, chairs, throw pillows and more, or take your upcycling a step further and refinish a bookshelf, table or other wooden furniture with a fresh coat of paint or stain, or give it a more weathered look with some sandpaper.

Find more ideas for upgrading your home at HPBA.org/house-warming.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

You don't need magic

to disappear; all you

need is a destination.

WHEN A CAREER CHOOSES YOU "God certainly calls the unprepared and then performs the work inside you to guide and direct. As the years passed, I received my call to the ministry. A call I refused to accept, but God moves in ways we can never fully understand. I was not fully accepted into the ministry because I was a woman, but GOD!"

Irene Ford-Smith

Written by

Pamela Gurley

IRENE FORD-SMITH

ON CAREERS & NEW BOOK 'SOME GLAD MORNING' Reverend Irene Smith's career began with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and retired from the U. S. Department of Labor. As time would have it, her love for God opened the door for her to eventually become a reverend and eulogist. Her new book entitled, "Some Glad Morning' are memoirs of her life takes readers on an heartfelt, and enlightening journey.

In life, everyone experiences situations that spark us to deal with our emotions. And while there is no right or wrong way to deal, the more honest we are with ourselves and others about how we are feeling, the easier it is to get through. This was something Reverend Irene Ford-Smith, author of Some Glad Mornings, learned the importance of at a very young age after seeing her mother deal with grief after the heartbreaking loss of her father.

Born in Toccoa, Georgia, Reverend Irene Ford-Smith watched her mother drown her misery in alcohol for many years after her father's death before making up her mind to change her life. As a result of her mother's temporary emotional spiral, Reverend Ford-Smith saw her missteps and decided those were steps she didn't want to take.

Seeing how her mother dealt with her grief shaped her, and it helped her understand human emotion a lot better.

The emotional pitfalls that come with hurt and grief allowed Reverend Irene Ford-Smith to look past the surface of people and give greater empathy to them. She saw a level of depth in their pain that many people overlook or chose not to address. It also gave way to how she saw people who shared stories about those who suffered or grieved loss.

Irene Ford-Smith Photography: Lindria Dockett Photography Cover Make-Up Artist: Jennifer Thorpe Beauty

Being able to see people through the lens of others opened a door for Reverend Irene Ford-Smith to serve as the eulogist at her church. Being a eulogist is not easy. You have to stand before family and friends who have gathered after the loss of a loved one and authentically paint a picture of a person you may or may not know, and their truth is based on what you've been told and what you've been able to presume. Allowing the spirit to lead her, Reverend Irene Ford-Smith said every time she had to stand to eulogize a person, she has never given the same sermon twice.

"I've learned now that in those uncomfortable places is where we're supposed to be so that we can grow and become who we are supposed to be."

IRENE FORD-SMITH

Sometimes we've been given an assignment or a task to do, and we think to ourselves, "Oh my gosh, I can't do this. Where do I start?" And it's uncomfortable. We find ourselves sitting in the rooms with people, looking around, and feeling uncomfortable because we don't feel like we belong there.

I've learned now that in those uncomfortable places is where we're supposed to be so that we can grow and become who we are supposed to be."

Want to know more or connect with Reverend Irene Ford-Smith? You can visit her website at: generationallyspeaking.tv, follow her on Facebook at Generationally Speaking, and Irene Smith, and subscribe to her YouTube Channel Generationally Speaking.

Irene Ford-Smith Photography: Lindria Dockett Photography Cover Make-Up Artist: Jennifer Thorpe Beauty

Working with families and their emotions, Reverend Irene Ford-Smith thought she would write a book about grief and sorrow one day. Instead, when she sat down to write, she found herself releasing her own emotions.

This birthed the phenomenal book, Some Glad Mornings. Of her writing experience, she stated:

importance of forgiveness as she found she had not resolved the anger she held against her mother.

As she wrote, she began to understand the power of her story. This understanding led to an introspective view of her life, and she came to appreciate all she had gone through. She understood the power of forgiveness.

As she wrote and poured out her emotions for a year, she wanted to tell each person's story in a way that would inspire others. Some Glad Mornings is also her personal journey of learning to forgive. Remembering all of the eulogies given, Reverend Irene FordSmith learned the

When asked what the near future holds for Reverend Irene Ford-Smith, she had this to say:

Reverend Irene Ford-Smith wrote Some Glad Mornings for anyone struggling in life, holding on to "I didn't realize how much I was still unforgiveness, those who have lost loved ones, any holding on to all of those emotions pastor who ministers to those who have experienced from all those services. It's like all of grief, and many others. This book will ignite a these persons that I had eulogized were conversation about your life and your experiences, now a part of me." and what you are holding on to.

"We don't teach about dying. It takes a lot of lessons, and nobody ever teaches because it's a subject we don't want to think about. I have started writing about how we are often placed in uncomfortable positions, but God always comforts us. | 20

LIVING & LIFESTYLE

LIFESTYLE Passion Stimulates Value & Success

If you have dreams, goals, and aspirational things you want to do with your life, go for it! Associate with people who will add to you and your goals versus take away from them. Get away from those folks that don’t support your idea, and surround yourself with people who encourage, who motivate, and who inspire. Otherwise you’re moving backwards and you’re never going to achieve your goals. Below are a few tips to help ignite passion:

Product Value: If you’re an entrepreneur or a business owner, whatever it is that you’re selling to people, whatever it is your product is supposed to do, make sure it does it. Whatever your services, make sure you provide that service well. You’re always going to have some chronic complainers and people who are unhappy. You can always try to be selective about those with whom you do business .

Positive Business Partners: These are just some pointers and things I’ve learned. I know them because I see them as a business woman and as someone who is the CEO and founder of a very successful company. There are bad apples everywhere. Negative people might not want to see you succeed. They may envy your talent. They see great things in you, but they don’t want you to achieve success.

Good Fits: On another note there are customers or potential customers who are not the right fit for your product, your business, or your service. Detect that and detect it fast. If you don’t, it will keep you from getting to where you’re supposed to be.

Deliver: My main point is to care and have passion about the products and the services you really want to deliver. Sometimes people bring their trust issues from being burned somewhere else, and it makes it a little bit difficult to be mindful. Be able to determine and drop those trust issues somewhere else.

The Real Deal: Not everyone is the same. We are living in a world where some people care only about money. However, there are those who really care about what it is that they do. When you encounter the real deal, be able to realize it. Detect that as a consumer.

For those who have dreams and aspirations, find those who will support you. If they don’t know how to support you, at least they’re cheering you on. If people are standing in the way, tell them to get out of your way. Or even better, don’t tell them to get out of your way. You move away from them and soar higher.

Made for everyday wear.

THE NATURE - Project

Fall Fashion With a Hint of Summerr

COMFORTABLE

COMING SOON Vikki Jones, an American designer explores fashion beyond luggae and travel/work totes. Be sure to visit or follow @shopvikkijones for more updates. Vikki Jones, LLC

RAPPER IVY SHADES’ RELEASES LUXURY DESIGNER EYEWEAR & MUSIC VIDEO “PHOTO” Ivy Shades has …”garnered support from major recording artists such as Rihanna, Cee-Lo Green and Lady Gaga.”

One of few artists to lay claim to a feature with the late great Pimp C, Ivy Shades has her sights set on rising up the charts alongside some of her biggest influences, such as Nicki Minaj, Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion.

Ivy hosted an exclusive summer listening party at Vortex Hollywood Studios to play unreleased music from her upcoming album. The private red carpet studio meet and greet featured cocktails by 50 Cent’s Branson Cognac and welcomed music industry guests from Epic Records, Dogg Pound, Death Row Records, Kannon Entertainment and more.

Ivy's Advice to Visionaries:

“I would say from my heart, to never give up.

Always believe in yourself. It doesn’t matter if 400 people told you no, as long as you tell yourself YES; you’re gonna get there.” – Ivy Shades (Sheen Magazine).

Originally from Los Angeles, Ivy Shades began her rap

Ivy Shades recently partnered with

career in 2010 from her second hometown of Houston, and has since garnered support from major recording artists such as Rihanna, Cee-Lo Green and Lady Gaga.

luxury brand Tote N’ Carry as a brand ambassador for their summer campaign, encouraging Instagram

As a Luxury Eyewear Designer, Ivy Shades is an accomplished six-figure entrepreneur whose bold designs have been featured in

Gaga.

newest single “Photo”

FashionBombDaily, Black Enterprise,

XXL, Vibe Vixen and have garnered support from celebrities such as

followers to post reels utilizing her

Rihanna, Cee-Loo Green, and Lady

To learn more about Ivy Shades follow her @ivyshades or visit:.

IVYSHADES.COM

www.vikkimjones.com

5 WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY FAMILY FEATURES

Working toward financial stability can be a daunting task, but developing healthy spending habits and practicing smart saving can make it

ECNANIF

easier to plan for the future and take control of your finances.

Improve your financial stability and security with these tips from the experts at Credit One Bank, a data-driven financial services company that is also one of the largest and fastest-growing credit card issuers in the United States.

Create a Spending Plan and Budget

specific everyday purchases. An option like the Credit One Bank Platinum Rewards Visa is one such credit card. Customers

By building a budget and examining your

can earn 5% cash back for the first $5,000 of eligible

spending habits, you’re able to see exactly how

purchases per year on things like gas, groceries, internet, cable,

much money you have coming in and where – or

satellite TV and mobile phone services, plus 1% cash back

on what – you’re spending it. This is often the

rewards on all other purchases.

first step toward meeting short- and long-term financial goals, whether those involve taking a

“Make sure your rewards are working for you – and not just as a

vacation, paying off debt, buying a new house

gimmicky signup bonus,” said David Herpers, head of product

or saving for retirement.

at Credit One Bank. “Find a credit card that continues to give you more for your everyday spending habits.”

Add up your household income, including paychecks and other income, such as

Compare Interest Rates When Opening a Savings Account

investments or rental property, then figure your monthly expenses starting with recurring bills

When selecting a savings account, look for the highest yield but

like rent or mortgage, car payments, insurance,

also consider the minimum balance requirement, any

utilities and subscriptions. Also account for

introductory rates that may expire after a set period of time

variable expenses like gas, groceries and

and the ease with which you’re able to access your money and

entertainment. Once you have your income and

account information. Often, digital banks can offer higher rates

expenses calculated, look for places you may

than traditional brick-and-mortar branches due to their lower

be able to cut back to help meet your financial

overhead costs. Ensure any bank you consider is a member of

goals. Don’t forget to be flexible; your budget

the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) so you can

and spending will change along with your

earn a fair rate and protect your money.

needs and situation.

Build an Emergency Fund

Earn Rewards on Everyday Purchases Emergency funds create a financial buffer that can keep you

You can stretch your budget further by taking

afloat in times of need without having to rely on high-interest

advantage of rewards offered by your bank or

loans or maxing out a line of credit. These funds can be used to

credit card company. For example, some credit

pay for large, unexpected

cards provide cash back rewards for

expenses such as medical bills, the loss of a job, car repairs or home appliance repair or replacement.

To build your emergency fund, set a monthly savings goal – even an amount as small as $50 per paycheck can make an impact over time – and set up a way for the funds to be automatically transferred to the account each time you get paid to make the task less daunting. Check on the account periodically and adjust if necessary or if your budget allows. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 3-6 months of living expenses.

Keep Track of Your Credit

Your credit score provides lenders and other parties a quick way to get an idea of your financial history and your ability to pay. Having a good credit score typically provides better interest rates and makes it easier to get approval on loans, rent an apartment, take out a mortgage or finance large purchases. Poor credit can saddle you with higher rates and lead to potential loan requests being denied.

To help you understand how different actions affect your credit score, many sites offer free credit reports and tools that allow you to stay up-to-date and track your score over time. Be sure to check reviews and verify the site’s legitimacy before entering your information.

Additionally, many credit card companies, including Credit One Bank, provide free access to online credit reports on a regular basis to give customers an easier way to stay on top of their finances.

Find more ways to make your money work for you at CreditOneBank.com/articles.

payment information more secure than swiping the magnetic strip.

Understanding Emerging Card Capabilities

Contactless cards are equipped with near-field Alternative methods of payment, like credit and debit

communication technology that allows payments to be made

cards, have now been around for decades and have

at a terminal without swiping or inserting. The card member’s

grown in popularity due to their convenience in

name, billing information and security code are never

comparison to cash, but technology has evolved even

transmitted when cards bearing the contactless indicator are

further to allow for a rise in contactless payment.

tapped on an equipped terminal.

Consider these capabilities many cards now offer:

Smart device payments can be made by adding your credit Chip (EMV) cards utilize smart technology to store data

or debit card to the wallet app on your smartphone or tablet.

on the microchip embedded in the card, allowing for an

Apps can also be added to some smartwatches to make

extra level of security with a one-time code generated

contactless payments at participating merchants even

as part of each transaction to keep

easier.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (man and woman with computer)

"Move forward.

Good things are up ahead." inspiration

| 26

M O D E R N NEUTRAL

HOME & LIVING Modernity is not just a trend. but it is sustainability

BLACK-OWNED FITTECH START-UP AIMS TO FIX HEALTHCARE FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS "It’s all about fitness wealth and a higher quality of life. The first of its kind, JunBugg will forever change fitness and healthcare," JunBugg Fitness Social Network, Wall Street’s “first and only luxury social media brand,” created by African American founder Louis Green, today announced the launch of its NextGen fitness website. Using computer algorithms, JunBugg integrates entertainment into health by sharing unique fitness solutions related to one’s body-type, that leads to better fitness results in the least time influencing success for a higher quality of life.

The start-up website boasts a sleek interface, vibrant logo, sophisticated font-type, and beautiful images, built on sophisticated software engineering. Through social engagement, members of similar health conditions and body-types share fitness strategies and medical solutions to get fit.

JunBugg uses algorithms that recommend relevant solutions to newsfeeds, the same type of technology that has allowed TikTok, Netflix and Amazon to be successful. The NextGen Search Database deliver relevant fitness matches for personalized training.Via a personalized fitness solution, members engage, collaborate and work as a team.

Teamwork allows members to foster

camaraderie, innovate and better problem solve fitness and health obstacles. The bigger the network grows, the more cures that are created. Algorithms see patterns of successful fitness solutions, learn the most effective ones, and recommend them to newsfeeds. As solutions evolve and improve, the algorithm learns and thus recommends those.

The African American community was hit hard

by COVID-19, who stand to gain the most from JunBugg, for a higher quality of life. The platform is easily accessible and allows equal quality of health care while being affordable.

The management of health conditions is the biggest benefit and prevention of disease as opposed to disease treatment, by being fit through exercise and eating healthy. See boutique fitness solutions https://www.junbugg.net Unlike traditional social media services TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter, whose services are free, JunBugg’s boutique membership offerings range between $30 and $500 a month. Fees are comparable to other boutique studios and fitness services, such as Equinox, SoulCycle, Peloton, and YogaWorks.

"It’s all about fitness wealth and a higher quality of life. The first of its kind, JunBugg will forever change fitness and healthcare," said Louis. “People are an amazing resource that’s never been used in this way - through the power of social media technology, to solve health problems through entertainment.”

At a very young age, she fell in love with writing during an assignment from her 7th grade language teacher. The assignment required students to recite (fill-in-theblank) poetry by the famous poet, and playwright Langston Hughes. Saletha has always had a big

Live purpose.

imagination, and a passion for reading and writing stories, which ultimately led to her new family story children's book, The Adventures of ChiChi Ba and Mr Bunny "First Encounter with Shadow".

www.salethaoliver.net

I just think the whole season — the colors, the

smells, the weather, the aforementioned festive

vibe — sets the perfect atmosphere for the

biggest, most important party of your life. So

when we started planning this issue, we wanted

to capture all that the season — and of course,

everything our region’s best vendors — has to

offer your fall/winter wedding There’s lots more inside this issue — from how to

make sure you’ve got an iron-clad vendor

contract, to how on earth you’re supposed to

merge all your stuff (and finances, and families)

together now that you’re getting married, to

advice from a guy who’s been there on whether or

not to invite your ex to the wedding.

JUNE PHILADELPHIA EDITOR IN CHIEF

SUPER FOODS FOR A NUTRITIOUS DIET FAMILY FEATURES reduce cholesterol.

Eggs – These energy-packed breakfast favorites contain a special type of protein that helps build muscle strength more than other proteins. When compared to other breakfast foods, eggs can also keep you feeling fuller longer with fewer calories and fat.

Spinach – Chock-full of magnesium, potassium and various vitamins and nutrients, spinach can prevent clogged arteries and protect against prostate and colon cancers.

The health community has long praised the benefits of vitamins and nutrients derived from natural sources. For those looking to improve their health or take preventative measures, these 10 natural super foods can be incorporated into your daily diet to help support your health:

Soy – This protein-packed food contains isoflavones, which can aid in treatment and prevention of prostate cancer. Also, research from the Food and Drug Administration

Green Tea – Armed with a special type of antioxidants called polyphenols, green tea can decrease plaque formed in the arteries

shows that 25 grams per day can help lessen the risk of heart disease.

and can fight prostate cancer.

Dark Chocolate – Satisfy your sweet Rosemary – Studies have shown this powerful spice can reduce the risk of stroke, as well as protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

tooth and improve blood flow to the brain at the same time. Dark chocolate can also lower blood

Almonds – Full of plant sterols and amino acids, almonds can help lower high cholesterol and promote muscle growth. These handheld

pressure and increase skin’s resistance to UV rays.

treats are also rich in vitamin E, which can protect skin from sun damage.

Find more health-conscious tips at eLivingToday.com.

Fatty Fish – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish such as salmon, flounder and sardines can lower the risk of heart disease.

Bananas – This easy, portable snack is loaded with essential potassium, which regulates the nervous system. Bananas also offer loads of vitamin B-6, which aids immunity and metabolism.

Whole Grains – These powerful body defenders have been known to boost immunity, protect against various cancers and

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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