FAIRYTALE
WEDDING IN JAMAICA
6 PACK ABS
AT 50
YEARS OLD!
SUPER STAR REGGAE CONCERT
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Contents
Vol #12 september 8th edition Articles Feature Articles 6 The First Annual Lance Cotton Cup
28 C hildren of the Future Can Lead the Way
8 Th e Transformation of the Hustler 30 Why Did Daddy Kill Mommy? into and Ethical Entrepreneur 31 F rom the Big Screen To the Canvas 10 Fairy-tale Wedding in Jamaica 32 Reggae Artists Celebrate 14 Shattered and Torn to Woven Caribbean Day Parade and Strong 34 Oliver Samuels 16 Salon Dreams 36 The Importance of Giving 22 How to Become a Vegan 38 Good Jobs that don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree 23 Fueling your Body with Electric Foods 40 Fashion Sense Meets Business Intellect 24 Secrets of Long Lasting Love Revealed 42 You Are Your Numbers
7 Steps to Success
pg 20-21
ABS at 50 Years Old
pg 18
26 Chris Arceneaux
CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR, SR VP
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PHOTO JOURNALIST
LEGAL COUNSELOR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
CLIVE WILLIAMS
RAYMOND DEANE
ADIKA BUTLER
MARJORIE FLASH
GARNETT H. SULLIVAN, ESQ
MARJORIE FLASH OF MY FLASH KEN/UNIVERSAL
PRESIDENT & ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
VP OF MARKETING &
ART DIRECTOR
NEW MEDIA INITIATIVES
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
MEDIA
CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS
PHILL HAMMOND
VICTOR STOUTE JR
ROCKSTONE MEDIA GROUP
ADIKA BUTLER - DR. CLIVE WILLIAMS MARJORIE
ON THE COVER IMAGE
CONTROLLER
FLASH - CHRIS GODFREY SHERON P. - REUBEN
MERCEDES BENZ, KEVIN AND THAYDENE
MICHELLE WILLIAMS
JAMES - BEN CASSELMAN
DOUGLAS, CAROL “KICK FEVER” GLASCOW
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT ANNETTE GORDON
DIRECTOR OF MAGAZINE DEVELOPMENT STEPHEN TYLER
(917) 749-7613 wiamagazinenyc@gmail.com editors@whereitzatmag.com
www.wiamagazine.com www.facebook.com/whereitzatmagazine twitter.com/gowhereitzat
WhereItzAt Magazine is published monthly by WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. WhereItzAt Magazine is a registered trademark of WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent is prohibited. Views of editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of WhereItzAt Magazine, WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. or its advertisers. For questoins, comments and concerns address your letters to: WhereItzAt Magazine • 219-10 S. Conduit Avenue • Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 or email:editors@whereitzatmag.com WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. 219-10 S. Conduit Avenue,Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 461 Elmont Rd. Elmont,NY 11003 Phone: (917) 749-7613
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PUBLISHER’S VIBE
WhereItzAt
Clive Williams, CEO/ Publisher _________________________ Since its emergence almost 12 years ago, Whereitzat Magazine has impacted on the lives of hundreds of thousands of its readers in various ways, for some it represented (as we had hoped), a refreshing change from the sensationalism of ‘man bites dog’ journalism; to others, it offers a reminder of their rich cultural heritage, forged out of adversity, but rich with song and laughter. However it is the stories of our many cultural icons, Dr. M.L. King, Marcus Garvey, Dr. Una Clarke, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Buju Banton, Beres Hammond, Sean Paul, Luciano, Tessann Chin, Marcia Griffiths, Lady Saw, Tanya Stephens, Heavy D, Maxwell, Shaggy, Bobby Konders and Jabba, Jamie Foxx and so many others, that resonated with you. It’s the incisive psycho/ social commentary and philosophies of the publisher’s vibe, the brilliant cultural/ spiritual essays of our editor- in-chief and the refreshingly colorful and uplifting images of our men and women of the diaspora – all intricately woven together to create Whereitzat Magazine, a publication that has spawned a following, that we lovingly call the WIA (WhereItzAt) community. We can only build on that reputation by staying ahead of the curve; to do so means that we must develop a partnership with you our readers, this simply means we are inviting your participation in what we do. The new magazine now offers NINE exciting new sections, each designed to provide you information you can use to improve your life. To the truly passionate and talented among you this is an open invitation to to share your talents and skills with your community, this 4 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
Where do we go from here? will ensure the expansion of our initiative to give more to the community and live up to our mission to continue to provide a FREE monthly magazine ,“by our community, for our community.” The last 11 years of serving our readers has taught us that after setting a high bar for information, education and inspiration, there’s no turning back; our responsibility is to raise the bar even higher, providing more information, more education and definitely more inspiration. WIA magazine is in the business of “expanding the limits of human potential,” to the extent that we will continue to provide it to you for… FREE! This represents a turning point for us and also for you as we focus on your need for empowering information, education and inspiration, we find it regrettable that much of what passes for information in mainstream media is too often negative, divisive and downright discriminatory, offering no solutions for uplifting and empowering our communities. So we understand the undeniable need to inform you about key areas of our lives, while neutralizing the effects of mis-education and making certain we are motivated and inspired by positive messages that are consistent with our needs. I believe we can all agree that our communities of color are in turmoil, socially, psychologically and financially; the healing will only begin when we take personal responsibility, begin to speak and act responsibly, offering solutions instead of condemnation, as we share our knowledge, skills and talents creating a reservoir of resources to supply the needs our community. The prevailing myth states, “if you want to hide information from Black folks put it in
a book.” Our response to that is this, “if you want Black folks to read that book, make it about them, their families, their needs and aspirations.” This is what we promise, Whereitzat (WIA) is committed to be about you, your family and your hopes and dreams, trust us to be your partner in progress as we chart a new course with confidence and optimism, a future in which we celebrate our achievements rather than our failures, where we see the glass half- full instead of halfempty, overcoming and rejecting many of the self-inflicted stigmas that have hampered our progress in the past. Are we being idealistic? Of course we are, we are optimistic because our very existence speaks to our resilience and endurance as a people as an ethnicity, who despite the animus and hostility we have endured, we have survived. I am delighted to welcome on board the MAD MEN who share and perpetuate my dream of providing my community a wealth of informative, useful and inspirational resources to empower your lives, they, more than anyone I have met, understand that change is the only constant and serving our community is our mission. Welcome and thanks to the creative insight of Raymond Deane our new Creative Director and Sr. V.P. Operations, Phill Hammond, V.P. Marketing and Promotions and Stephen Tyler, Director Magazine Development, Adika Butler Editorin Chief and Khalila Green, Managing Editor, Family Features. “Expanding the limits of Human Potential,” Clive.
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SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The First Annual Lance Cotton Cup for the Darby Foundation. Hosted by the Mercedes Benz of Massapequa
Lance Cotton General Manager of Mercedes Benz of Massapequa (right) Chris Arceneaux Professional Golfer/Ambassador for Mercedes Benz of Massapequa (left)
Bishop Frank O. White General Board Member Sr. Pastor of Zion Cathedral C.O.G.I.C in Freeport, NY
Congressman Edolphus (Ed) Towns
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The First Annual “Lance Cotten Cup” for The courses as well as exceptional catering and golf Darby Foundation Hosted by Mercedes–Benz outing facilities. of Massapequa. The celebrity line-up for this event includes Join us for the First Annual “Lance Cotten Cup” Long Drive Champ “Maurice Allen”, Former on Monday, September 29, 2014, at Wind Watch NFL Player “Richard Caster”, and Professional Golf & Country Club, 1715 Motor Parkway Golfer “Chris Arceneaux” Founder/CEO of the Hauppauge, NY 11788. Lance is the General DARBY Foundation. Our invited guests will Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Massapequa, NY Tee-It up for a best-ball format low-gross. Entry 101 E. Sunrise Highway Amityville, NY 11701. fees includes greens fees, golf cart, sumptuous meals, cocktails, silent auction, gift bag and Shotgun commences at 11:30am. awards ceremony. Please register at http:// We are pleased to announce that three darbyfoundation.org/tournaments prominent individuals, Bishop Frank O. White, General Board Member and Sr. Pastor of Zion In addition you are invited to join the Celebrity Cathedral C.O.G.I.C. in Freeport, NY, Former All-Stars on Saturday, September 27, 2014 Congressman Edolphus (Ed) Towns and “Dr. from 1:00pm to 6:00pm for autographs Deborah L. Wortham” Superintendent of and pictures at the Mercedes-Benz of Schools Roosevelt Union Free School District Massapequa showroom. will be honored for their accomplishments, commitment and outstanding contribution to Proceeds from this event will benefit The DARBY Foundation. Event details and registration can be their community and throughout the nation. found at www.darbyfoundation.org. Donations Atop one of Long Island’s highest points, the are appreciated, if you are not available to attend Wind Watch Golf & Country Club offers the event. Please make all checks payable to The mesmerizing panoramic views of the North DARBY Foundation P.O. Box 7545 Freeport, Shore. Members and guests enjoy one of NY 11520. the island’s most unique and challenging
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SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The Transformation of the Hustler into an Ethical Entrepreneur only wants to be a hustler, because they have little or no integrity. A lot of business people don’t have integrity either, but those are usually the ones who compromise their own success. Successful business men and women can see beyond their immediate lusts for money long enough to at least think twice about robbing their partners and clients. They see the big picture. The biggest difference between a hustler and a legitimate business person is long-term thinking. A hustler just wants to get inside of your pockets because they can’t see past their own greed. A business person, on the other hand, is interested in establishing long-term relationships with their clients and customers. In their effort to build these relationships, the business person does the best job that they can to make sure that their clients are actually happy with their products or services. Fast-talking hustlers come and go, but business men and women build institutions that their children can potentially inherit. Young people who look up to hustlers are more likely to become old people with no vital institutions. This hasn’t stopped Black popular culture from raising the hustler to the status of a demi-god and social icon. I can’t tell you how many Black people between the ages of 18-40 have looked me dead in my face and proudly declared “I’m a hustla!”
There are many other statistics that I could hurl at you, and they all indicate that our futures depend on self-employment. We must build business to hand down to our offspring so that they don’t have to depend on other people to employ them. I know that we all have the power within us to do this. However, we would be fools to think that we could thrive as long-term business owners while clinging to a hustler’s mindset. To the “natural born hustler,” I say hold on to your fire. Never let it leave you. Still, you must broaden your world view. Let’s Despite all of the hype concerning the rise of do something different. Let’s do business and an entrepreneurial spirit within the hip-hop exercise good character in those endeavors. I generation since the late 1990s, the culture has think we’ll be delighted by the abundance of not cultivated a genuine appreciation for good wealth we will accumulate. business practices among young Black people. Dr. Dre, Jay-Z, 50 Cent and a few others have If Destiny is a child, then its parents are Vision made some smart business moves over the course and Audacity. This is why every new day should of their careers, but in their music, they would be embraced like a newborn bundle of joy. The still have us believe that they were able to make future is pregnant with possibilities that your those moves while having the standard hustler’s mind has yet to conceive. These aren’t merely mentality. I think that you should know that my opinions. This is truly WhereItzAt. this is not the case and that Dre, Jay, and 50 are fairly intelligent businessmen who may be By: Adika Butler pandering to naïve fans, who may still live in the ghettos that they have long left behind. We need to study successful business people like Reginald F. Lewis, author of “Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun.” The fast-talking street hustler paradigm is passé, and it’s for the birds. I’m more interested in building a cultural legacy of service and dependability. When I start a family of my own, and I design my family Coat-of-Arms, I want the image to instil a sense of pride and carry spiritual meaning among my descendants and within the community I served long after my physical body has expired.
Most of them have been intelligent men and women. While I respect the hustler’s resourcefulness and sense of initiative, I wouldn’t trust him with anything that is of critical But then again, maybe you don’t know that importance to me. You can’t trust someone who they’re really just entertaining you with their 8 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
boasts. Maybe some of you really do believe that a hustler can actually inherit the universe. The Center for Economic Policy and Research recently reported that Blacks in the United States will have lost over $142 billion in potential wages and salaries from 2008 through 2014. The Center for Responsible Lending estimates that Blacks will lose an estimated $194 billion in wealth.
Offers Expire December 30th, 2014
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ROMANCE & RELATIONSHIPS
Fairy-tale
Groom: Kevin Douglas, Jamaican heritage, 29 years old, Hometown: Brooklyn NY, Stony Brook University Bride: Thaydene Douglas, Jamaican heritage, 30 years old, Hometown Long Island, NY, Resides in Queens, NY,
Wedding in Jamaica
About Thaydene I describe myself as easy going and very simple, quiet, shy, and reserved person. I am a very kind-hearted individual. I definitely love to laugh, have random fun, and spend time with my family and husband. We are a very close knit group. I adore my nieces and nephews and love watching them grow up. I am Physician Assistant in the Neonatal ICU. I love my job and the reward it brings. I have been truly blessed with this career path. One day I hope to operate my own daycare. How long have you known each other? 11 years and counting. Where and how did the two of you meet? We both attended Stony Brook University. The first time we met was during try-outs for a fashion show. We were associates until 3 years later when we really spent the time to get to know one another and the rest is history. How long have you been married? 3 months Where did you get married? Negril, Jamaica, WI (Husband) When did you decide you wanted to spend the rest of your life with her? Back in 2010, I realized that Thaydene was my best friend and a day couldn’t go by with out her being on my mind. She is the first person I think about in the morning and the last person I think about prior to bed. That’s when I knew I had to make her my wife 10 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
(Wife) Describe how you felt during the proposal? Were you surprised?
Stony Brook University/ NYIT
tackle life as a unit!
As a newly married couple what positive I was definitely surprised! We were on a cruise advice would you give to our WIA community for family vacation. It was just him and I. Very members who are engaged to be married, or personal and intimate. I wouldn’t change a thing in a serious relationship? about it! Except when I grabbed the ring and put it on my own finger lol. I wish i gave him Anything good is worth fighting for! If you’re in love, give your relationship your best effort. the opportunity...I was just too excited. It will be worth it in the end. Also, remember Where do you live? every problem has a solution so work through it together with God, not with anyone else. Deer Park, NY Edited by: Stephen Tyler Do you have kids? If yes what are their names? If not, do you plan on having kids? We currently do not have children and hope to start a family in the near future. (Husband) What do you love most about your wife? I love her personality. We mesh well together and she makes me a better man. I love the fact that we could be doing absolutely nothing, but just being in the same space, and we feel complete and content. (Wife) What do you love most about your husband? First and foremost, he is the most selfless person I know. He is always willing to help anyone at anytime. He is reliable, smart, and always has my best interest in my mind! What are your plans for the future? We recently purchased a home, which is currently our “baby.” We are building our home together to make it perfect for us. Then when it’s time, be blessed with a family. We simply want to continue to grow with each other and
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ROMANCE & RELATIONSHIPS
WIAppreciate You WIA Magazine ask some members of our community what special person they appreciate in their life and why. Terence Tillman from Queens, NY expresses why he appreciates his mother Jean Tillman.
Terrence, what do you appreciate about your mother? My mother is a beautiful soul. She is very ambitious, gracious, humble, loving and giving. She is a God fearing woman, that is a advocate of praying and making time for God. Not many people know about her hidden talent of drawing. She also loves taking pictures and she loves to keep active. Plus, she stays up really late too, lol. How has your mother helped others? My mom has been a counselor to MANY. She is always there for anyone who needs a word of encouragement or a shoulder to cry on. She always goes the extra mile to help anyone hurting or in need, no matter how much she is inconvenienced. How has your mother helped you? When I was not well, she gave up her good paying job to stay home to make sure I got the care I needed. She is the one responsible for making me the man I am today. I can go on and on forever about how much her strength amazes me & her perseverance inspires me. Her giving heart is contagious and she always pushed me to be the best man I could be. She’s a woman of high integrity who taught me to stand up for my beliefs and never compromise my morals. My mom always taught me the value of a dollar and how to use small money to create big money. She knows how to be a woman about her business but always takes care of her home & her marriage. She has showed me about the power of prayer. Through MANY of her life threatening encounters, she stood strong on the word of God and with faith, she pushed through all her adversities with a great attitude. Terrence, what would you like say to your mother? Mom you exemplify exactly what it means to be a real woman. You taught me so much about God, life, friendship, adversity, morals, values, respect, philanthropy, and leadership. You’ve taught me what it means to be a real gentleman. You taught me how to wear a suit and coordinate my colors effectively and as everyone can see I’ve taken that very far in my life lol. Above all you’ve taught me what unconditional love is. Words cannot express the love I have for you and what you mean to me. That’s why I celebrate you, not just today but everyday. I can only hope to make you proud.
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WIAppreciate You WIA Magazine ask some members of our community what special person they appreciate in their life and why. Michele Valentin from Queens, NY expresses why she appreciates her husband Matthew Valentin. Michele, why do you appreciate Matthew? Matthew is a loving, caring and supportive individual. He is a great father, wonderful husband and my best friend. How has others?
Matthew
helped
Matthew is the most caring and supportive person I know. He is always there to help his friends and family. Michele, what would you like to say to Matthew? I am grateful that you are my husband Matthew. You are my best friend, my husband, my protector, my shoulder. Most importantly, you love me just for me. I can’t wait to celebrate our 5 year anniversary! I love you!
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Shattered and Torn to Woven and Strong WIA Magazine speaks with Jewelry Designer and founder of Hunks for Hope Charity, Lila Green I founded Caribbean Lilac Jewelry after working for several years in the retail and fashion industries. Making jewelry, for me, was initially an interest and conduit of healing. It was a place of retreat and comfort and gave me the opportunity to artistically express myself. CLJ are hand crafted pieces that are unique, and elegant for women of any age. CLJ is available for wholesale purchase, individual consumer sale or for film and fashion industry rental. “It’s a hard knock life” are more than cliché and song lyrics to this Brooklyn native. No stranger to hard-work or hardship this single mother of three has had her share of setbacks, disappointments and defeat. Yet none of these circumstances or negative experiences could keep her from her destiny. “Being in an abusive relationship can cause you to find strength within that you never knew existed” says Lila Green owner and founder of Caribbean Lilac. Not allowing her past to hinder her future, she is determined to empower women, educate and promote awareness around Domestic Violence, provide a positive life example for her daughters and position herself to inspire others. As an entrepreneur, motivational speaker and published author, Lila Green is “truly living in purpose, on purpose!” We caught up with Lila in her hometown of East New York to learn a little more about Caribbean Lilac, all that she’s accomplishing in the community through her outreach and domestic violence awareness initiatives and what we can expect in the near future from this rapidly growing enterprise.
system based on encouraging self-development and self-love. Tell us what you’re passionate about? I am most passionate about helping and serving others. Aiding others in realizing their dreams and taking the necessary steps to reach those dreams and achieve their goals. My passion is to motivate and inspire others. Helping others to achieve true joy and happiness in their own efforts is my life’s mission and purpose. How has your hardship or how have your challenges made you stronger? I’m so thankful for the challenges, trials and tribulations that I’ve been through. Had I not gone through them I don’t believe I would be as strong. There is good in every situation, and my three little girls were that for me. Teaching them to believe in themselves and empowering them is what keeps me motivated and inspired. What steps did you take to rise above it all?
Investing time in myself, not focusing my energy on my past or on what happened to me and what I felt should be happening to me. It was a bad a situation where I almost lost my life Hunks 4 Hope is a collaborative effort that twice yet I focused on moving forward. I have was birthed two years ago after a testimonial a great life ahead of me and I am intentional in and empowering conversation with a close focusing my energy on that. I became an avid friend witnessed domestic abuse in his family. reader. I look to friends and family for support We initiated and launched an annual calendar as well; they keep me grounded and focused. which feature male models and photographers from the tri-state area. Its proceeds are given to Who do you praise for helping/aiding you in charities that support the awareness and aid of your progression? domestic violence victims and survivors. The My Mother, my mother… my mother was there What type of company/business is Caribbean purpose and mission of Hunks for Hope is to every step of the way. She never gave up on me, Lilac and Hunks for Hope? What prompted one day eradicate Domestic Violence through never turned her back on me! Even when I was education and developing a unique support you to start them? 14 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT at my lowest point, she stuck with me through it all.
What are your future goals and vision for your business?
What are some hardships that you learned the I really hope that Hunks 4 Hope becomes international and reach multitudes around the most from? world! Domestic violence is not contained… I’ve learned that when people try to tear me it transcends against race, class, status, gender, down and break down my spirit it was because etc. and so I want to raise awareness on a they can see my capabilities and how strong I global level. could be. I didn’t know my value at that time but it all helped me to realize my worth and Final Comments value. Although it was hard I’m grateful for the experience as I can now give back to others as a There is nothing special I do, I just care for people and in caring it gives me strength to do result of what I’ve learned. all the things that I do. Believing in some sort If you could give back what would you give of higher power is so important for me because to those who experienced a similar situation? it keeps me on the path that I’m destined to be on. It helps me to stay focused, exploring your My advice for others is to never look to anyone spirituality brings you closer to your purpose. to define who you are… “My mother always told me, never let any ones opinion of you become your opinion of yourself!” You control Interviewed by: Natima Fisher your destiny!!
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Salon Dreams From The Rear To the Front Chair
Owner Operator of “Queen of the Wink” Salon in Jamaica Queens, New York discusses with WIA Magazine how her life flipped upside down to rightside up. From being jobless to creating them for friends and more in her community.
Tell us about yourself?
successful in all parts of my life. I want to be the best example of a black women for her.
I grew up in flushing Queens. I’m a queens girl all day, born and raised right here in the heart of What are you passionate about? New York City, but my family is from the deep south. Louisiana and Alabama to be exact! Now, I’m passionate about making women of color feel beautiful and confident. I want everyone I’m a single mom with big goals and dreams. that sits in my chair to forget about their troubles What inspired you to own a hair salon? for a moment and to put themselves first. Black Women tend to take on so much and I want I was a Bank Manager for years before I was them to remember to put themselves first! a Salon Owner. During the mortgage crisis in 2007, I was laid off. So, I decided to pursue What are some of your future goals? my passion through a career in hair!!! At the beginning, I was an independent contractor My short term goal is to reinvent our look at the at the hair salon. I later purchased the existing salon and improve the social media outlets to business from the previous owner and it is now keep it new and interesting. My long term goal is my very own. I could not have done it without to expand into other areas of the beauty industry the support and love from my family and friends. to platform my work toward education, theater and film. I WILL open other establishments and What hardships made you stronger in your would love for my staff to move on and become life? business owners in some aspects for themselves as well. I want to be a role model for all the By being laid off at a critical time in my life, pretty brown girls out there who want to work it made me see that I had no other option but for themselves and aspire to make there own to succeed. My stumbles and setbacks helps rules. me build tougher skin for any obstacle that lies ahead. What advice would you give other people who are interested in pursuing their passion? Who do you praise for helping you through your progression? Stay persistent and consistent. Your goals can be reached if you never let up. The hard work will I choose to put God first and foremost my never be easy, but if you are persistent, it become parents. Also, my co workers here at the salon. easy to deal with. They are like my sisters. I also praise my friends who have supported me and most of all my daughter. She is my inspiration for being
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Six Pack Abs At 50
FITNESS & HEALTHY EATING
Personal trainer and third degree black belt instructor Carol Glascow (Kick Fever Fitness) shares her secret on how she maintains her sculpt body at the age of 51.You don’t want to miss out on this.
Tell us about yourself and what inspired you to get into personal training? My journey began in London England were I ran track for nearly 10 years. Then in 1990, I moved to New York. When I came to the states, I tried swing dancing, fencing and rock climbing. I eventually found a real love for martial arts. I started teaching at a local YMCA and then progressed to an instructor. Now, I am a senior instructor at World Martial Arts Center and I own Kick Fever Fitness (www. kickfeverfitness.com) where I teach Kick Boxing, self defense and offer personal training. I am a 3rd Degree Black Belt Hapkido, 1st Degree Black Belt Kumite Ryu Ju-Jitsu and I received instructor of the year in 2007. How can members of our WIA community get abs like you? First off I will say, if you put in enough hard work and eat healthy you can achieve ANYTHING!! Me personally, I have been working out for 38 years and I’ve been doing martial arts for 30 years. I hardly eat fried foods, never drink soda and drink lots of water. I eat well EVERY day, plus I work out 4-6 times a week, every month, every year. That is the secret to my success. As a Personal Trainer, to officially help my clients reach their goals, I encourage the same type of lifestyle. I love watching my clients progress as their body transforms. This gives me great satisfaction. So, if you want 6 pack abs at any age, you have to work hard for them. But like I said before, if you put in the work you will see the results! What are the benefits of Kick Boxing Training? Not only is kick boxing an amazing work out, it also works hand in hand with self defense. Some of
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my students were attacked in real life but because of my training, they were able to defend themselves. This is why I teach and I get up every day ready to give help and training to everyone who comes my way regardless of age. After all, age is nothing but a number. What dietary plans and motivational tips would you give to our WIA community members who are looking to get into shape or eat healthier? It is NOT about being on a diet. It is all about eating healthy. Yes! There will be times that we slip up. Get back on track! Stick with fish and chicken and cut down on rice and bread. If you want ice cream go ahead! Only once or twice a week and have it during lunch not dinner. Your biggest meal should not be at dinner. Remember, food takes about 3 hours to digest, so do not eat and go straight to bed. Find the time to workout for YOU. What advice would you give to individuals looking to pursue a career in personal training, fitness, or nutrition?” Love what you do. You must have a passion for fitness, from there start learning, start reading, watching videos. Learn about the human body, muscles, ligaments how the body moves. How can our WIA community members join your training & fitness classes and get in contact with you? They can call me at (347) 909-0914 email me at: kickfever@gmail.com or visit my website at: www.kickfeverfitness.com
WIA PRIDE WIA magazine went out asking members of the community about the country they came from and or its people, What is it that makes them proud?
Janice Hoseine | Queens | Trinidadian
What do you love most about your country? culture? There are too many to choose from. But I would have to say our people and our music. We are not too ashamed to say where we came from and when we are mistaken for a different nationality... we correct. Not that we think we are better but because we are proud Trinis. And music because it brings out the energy in us. Whether it’s “jumpin up” or “whinin down” we just “get on bad”!!! Our music makes us dance as though we are free and not a care in the world.
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SELF HELP / INSPIRATION
If there is one desire that connects all people, it would be our desire for success. We all strive for success in our careers, love life & health. We all desire to live a happy and fulfilled life. But, if there is one feeling that connects us all, it would be the feeling of failure. The feeling that we have not accomplished some level of success in a certain area of our life. Some of us have been struggling with our weight, some with our finances, some in our love life, some in all three. If this is you, don’t beat yourself up because you are not alone. A very wise man by the name of Clive Williams, the chairman of WIA magazine, taught me about the importance of “passing it forward”. He says that “it is the responsibility for the older and wiser to pass on their knowledge to the younger generation.” I believe he is absolutely correct. I also believe that anyone who has learned from mistakes in their life should pass on that lesson to others. That lesson, could save another person tremendous pain and hardship throughout their life. After 12 years of learning from business mistakes, heartaches, life lessons and knowledge gained from reading books from the greatest authors such as Napoleon Hill, I have put together a list of seven steps to success. I believe if you follow all seven steps, then you will be on your way to living the life you truly want to live. How do I know this? These seven steps turned my life around. In my career, I directed 2 feature films, 3 TV commercials and a MTV music video. I am the co-owner of 2 companies and now I have been given the amazing opportunity to be the VP of Operations for WIA Magazine. In my personal life I have lost 50 pounds, made new 20 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
friends, I have fun with my 2 sons, I get along better than ever with my wife of ten years and I just bought my first house. It would bring me so much joy to know that these 7 steps to success help you the way that they helped me. All I ask is that you “Pass it forward”. Success Step #1: Be grateful for your life. The greatest gift you have ever received is your life. It is the one gift that literally keeps on giving. Everything you have or will ever experience will come from this one amazing gift. All the happiness, all the joy & all the love comes from this one gift. It is vital to your happiness that you realize that you are blessed to be alive. When you are grateful for your life itself, you focus more on the things you do have instead of the things you don’t have. You see the beauty all around you. You will appreciate your mother or your kids more, you will appreciate your husband or wife more, you will feel lucky instead of feeling cursed. When you focus on what you don’t have, you become selfish by nature. Not because you are greedy, it’s because your mind is too occupied with feelings of sadness or anger about something you don’t have. This will bring your life to state of self sorrow and depression. Grateful people are very giving. They are not selfish. You might be thinking I’m not rich, I can’t give, but giving is not all about money. You can give compliments. You can help people. You can give love. You can call your mom or dad and tell them how much you appreciate them. If you are grateful for your life you will spread joy everywhere you go. In return you will receive an
abundance of joyful experiences and people in your life. Success Step #2: Focus on the answers, not the problems. One of the worst habits that plagues our entire community is our habit of speaking about our problems over and over and over again. We will call our friends to complain about how much they don’t respect us at our job, we will tell our best friends all the things we can’t stand about our love ones. We complain, complain, complain. But what we don’t see, is that all of this complaining does nothing to solve our problems. The more you discuss the problem, the bigger you make the problem in your life. Focus on finding the answers to all your problems. If you hate your job than focus on finding one you love. Spend all your energy on finding the answer to your problems. The habit of finding the answers will give you more and more energy towards obtaining your goals in life. Success Step #3: Take self responsibility. It is time to stop blaming other people for not being where you want to be in your life. Stop blaming your parents, your partner, your boss, your friends or your teachers. Think about self responsibility like this. Who accepted that job that doesn’t pay enough? If the answer is you, then you have no right to blame anyone. You want a better paying job? Go get one! You are not bounded by whips and chains, slavery is over. There is no one holding you down but
SELF HELP / INSPIRATION you. When you blame others, you give away all your power. You give them control of your life. You will be weak and unable to change for better until you take self responsibility. When you take self responsibility you become powerful. The truth is, there are many people who started from the poorest and hardest situations and they rose to the top. Taking self responsibility for every action in your life helps you understand that it doesn’t matter what your current circumstances are. When you realize that you are in control of your life, you will have faith in your ability to obtain any goal you have.
now, start now, start now. Go for your goals feel drained and moody. This is a fact. Another now. Make the change in your life right now. factor that plays a huge role in your mood is all You are the only person that can do it. of the noise around you. Take one day a week away from all the noise. Turn off the TV, radio, Success Step #5: Learn From Mistakes & facebook and turn off your cell phone. Your Experiences brain needs time for silence. It cannot function Whether you’re a struggling entrepreneur or properly when it is too filled with distractions. struggling to lose weight, remember that it’s Think of your brain like a computer, if you have natural to not get it right on your first try. The too many programs running at the same time, key is to find a way that will work by learning the computer will crash. Taking one day away from your mistakes. Once you find a winning from the noise will re-energize you. formula, stick to it. If you figured out that Success Step 7#:. Try new things and have fun! dancing in a dance class helped you lose weight, Success Step #4: Create a plan for what you then dance in more dance classes. If you own a The best medicine for your body is happiness. restaurant and you see giving out free samples Make time to do the things you love to do. If want and start now. increases sales then, keep giving out samples. In you like to play basketball, go and play. If you What do you want? Is it a better job? Do you order to not make the same mistakes over and like to dance, go and dance. Doing the things want to start your own business? Do you want over; you have to analyze why it didn’t work. you love, keeps you happy. Trying new things to lose weight? Do you want to be an author? Figure out what you did wrong and how you gives your life excitement. Listen to new music, Great, now its time to create a plan to obtain can fix it. Don’t be afraid to switch up your try new foods, go to new and exotic places & what you want. Focus on an obtainable goal that approach. Gain knowledge by reading books make new friends. The more you expand your leads you in the path that you want to go. For on topics that help you obtain your goals. The experiences the more exciting your life will be. example, if you want to write a book, your plan more you learn from other peoples experiences, So, while you are pursuing your dreams, work can be to write 1 page per day. Before you know the easier it will be to overcome your obstacles. hard & play harder. it, the book is done. Creating a plan gives you a guide to follow. Most people are lost because Success Step #6: Eat healthy and get away By: Raymond Deane they don’t know where they’re going. Pretend from the noise. life is like a map. Create a path that takes you The foods we eat affect our energy and state of to your destination. Once your goals are clearly mind. If you drink 8-10 glasses of water per day written down on paper then you know exactly and eat natural foods like fruit and vegetables what you have to do. There will never be a right daily you will feel light and full of energy. If time to go for your goals, so start now. Start you eat tons of fast food and meat you will
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FITNESS & HEALTHY EATING
How to Become Vegan Most people go on diets but it does not last. Reason being because you don’t know what to do to supplement yourself during the course of change. WIA magazine catches up with Nathalie Noisette on how to properly ease into the vegan way of a healthy lifestyle.
This article has probably caught your attention because you are probably contemplating becoming a vegan. This is an awesome lifestyle decision that has proven to be very rewarding. Before you take on any big change, there are a few things you need to know. This article features important information that will help you make the transition easy and smooth.
Meat consumption, especially red meat, has get the hang of not having meat in your diet. been linked to higher risk of heart disease and Explore new recipes and non-meat food items certain cancers. If you are on a plant rich diet to supplement. Going cold turkey works for these risk are gone almost immediately! some people and is a disaster for others. Easing into it is the surest way to test the waters and There have been numerous studies done not feel overwhelmed. supporting the plant based diet and its health implications. Share:
What is a Vegan?
How to Transition
Be clear about why you are doing this. Becoming a vegan is a HUGE lifestyle change, not a trend, fad or phase. Make sure your reasoning is clear and you know exactly why you want to do it. Take some time before you try to become a Types of Vegans vegan and list your reasons. Writing your reasons down and reviewing them often will help for There are literally 15 kinds of vegans; I will only those times you may get discouraged. cover the two basic and most popular. If you want to know about the others, you are more Go to your doctor. Any new lifestyle change for than welcome to message me. your health should precede a visit to your doctor to make sure you are in good enough shape to 1. Dietary Vegans- People who do not eat pursue this new lifestyle. animal products or animals but will wear fur, leather, and consume honey. These vegans Ask questions. Seek out someone you know has usually become vegan for the health benefits done it or is doing it for advice. that veganism provides. There is no reason for you to be lost or in a 2. Lifestyle Vegans (not the official name) - bind. There is The Fitizen, online communities, are people who do not eat animal products forums, face book pages and hundreds of other (including honey) and do not wear leather, or fur. resources if you get lost. These vegans are usually more environmentalists Its okay to get lost as long as you don’t stay lost. who have animal cruelty concerns. A vegan is someone who does not eat any animal products what so ever. This means, they abstain from meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese or any food product that comes from an animal.
Reasons to Go Vegan
Ease into it:
There are million reasons why veganism is the optimal health lifestyle. The ones that stick out to me the most are listed below.
Try trading in a non-meat item in your diet for a week. Turn that week into two weeks, then two weeks into a month and so on until you
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Sharing is the surest way to get advice and encouragement. I will be here cheering you along the way. The only other piece of advice I have regarding becoming a vegan is taking a multivitamin. Whether you eat meat or not this is a good practice but it is especially good if you are thinking about becoming a vegan. Whenever you are changing your diet in anyway there is the risk of losing certain vitamins and minerals; so this is imperative!
On a plant based diet you: ay have fewer issues with M constipation. an lower cholesterol and can C reverse artery-clogging damage. an lose weight since the foods C are high in fiber and lower in calories. Preserve animal lives.
FITNESS & HEALTHY EATING
Fueling your body with Electric Foods There are many ways to refuel your body, keep a high level of energy and maintain it.
Kale, Watermelon, Amaranth Greens, Red Onions, Sea Moss, Lemons, Limes, Cucumber, Dandelion Greens, Garbanzo Beans, Mustard Some of these ways are keeping your thoughts Greens, Okra, Olives (and olive oil), Onions, positive, exercise, water intake, stress control Poke Salad -Greens, Sea Vegetables , Cranberries, and most importantly eating electric foods. An Dark greens, Almonds, String beans, Tomato electric food is food that is completely natural, completely ingenious of the Earth and 100% living. Our bodies are alive, which make human beings dependent on a living life force. Energy makes us move. Electrical food animates our electric bodies. Sadly, about 80% of the common foods that are the norm in the American diet is not electric. The body is run upon a source of electric energy given by the life of foods.
and yellow vegetables. For a list of more healthy foods and more information log on to: www.wiamagazine.com By: Stephen Tyler
Here is a quick list of common electric foods that will fuel your body.
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FAMILY, TRAVEL & LEISURE
Secrets of Long Lasting Love Revealed Kingston natives Patrick & Elena Hammond (Longtime Marriage w/h Children) from Queens explain how they kept the candle lit for so long and how they made the flame grow brighter.
Where did you get married?
if she is happy, then I am happy.
St. Joachim & Anne Roman Catholic Church
(Wife) What do you love most about your husband?
(Husband) When did you decide you wanted to spend the rest of your life with her?
He is so dedicated to his family and work. He is my best friend and a positive role model to his family and community.
I decided in 1975, before starting college, but decided it was best to finish school and get a job first. What are your plans for the future? (Wife) Describe how you felt during the proposal? Were you surprised?
To spend quality time together traveling and visiting family and friends all over the world.
He proposed on Christmas Day in 1979,I was New York State Licensed, Registered Architect, very happy and accepted. I was not surprised. (1988). Principal of Hammond Architecture. Commercial and residential projects, specializing Where do you live? in eating and drinking establishments. Queens, New York Hobbies: cycling, kite flying, painting, tennis. Do you have kids? Tell us about yourself? We have four children. Phillip, age 32; Eric, age I am a mother of four children plus an Dental 30; Tiffany, age 23 and Stephanie, age 21. and Oral Surgery Assistant. (Husband) What do you love most about Hobbies: I love floral arrangements, arts and your wife? crafts, event planning and decorating.
As a long-time married couple what positive advice would you give to our WIA community members who are engaged to be married/ serious relationship?
Tell us about yourself?
How long have you known each other? 42 years strong and looking forward to more. Where and how did the two of you meet? We met in Valentine Gardens, Kingston, Jamaica, W.I. at a friend’s party during the summer of 1972. How long have you been married? 34 lovely years together.
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She is selfless, so caring and puts her family ahead of herself. She is my best friend and
Never end the day angry with each other. Whatever the conflict, try to resolve it quickly. The longer a problem festers on the harder it is to resolve it. Respect yourself and your partner and try not to say things in anger that you will regret later.
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COMMUNITY & EDUCATION
CHIRS ARCENEAUX PROFESSIONAL GOLFER MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH THE DARBY FOUNDATION The Darby Foundation is a non-profit organization on a mission to instill great core values, and teach youth “SKILLS 4 LIFE”. Through Education, Recreation, Health & Fitness and Community Service, the Foundation aims to achieve these goals. With this formula lives of young people may be enriched. We passionately believe that young people everywhere deserve education, hope and opportunity.
plan on partnering with other like- ‐minded For more information vist organizations so that we may enhance the www.darbyfoundation.org or email info@ programs initiatives. darbyfoundation.org “Who is Chris Arceneaux?” “Chris Arceneaux” is a professional golfer, founder and CEO of The Darby Foundation. Motivator, community leader.
The Darby Foundation is a non-profit organization on a mission to instill great core The Darby Foundation also will create programs values, and teach youth “SKILLS 4 LIFE”. to assist the participants with their academic Through Education, Recreation, Health pursuits. Our vision is to establish computer & Fitness and Community Service, the literacy workshops and mentoring programs Foundation aim to achieve these goals. With that will engage and empower the youth. this formula lives of young people may be These programs will instill the importance enriched. of furthering their education and will lead to professional opportunities. Furthermore, we
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WIAppreciate You WIA Magazine asked some members of our community what special person they appreciate in their life and why. Margaret Jackson from Port Chester, New York expresses why she appreciates her three sons (triplets) Donato, Stephon & Dametreus Jackson.
Margaret, what do you appreciate about your sons? Donato is my first born of the triplets. He is “The Observant One.” He is very passionate. Stephon is my second born, he is “Mr Personality.” Although the smallest born, he has the biggest heart. Dametreus is my third born and he is “The Old Man.” lol, Dametreus is a young man with an old soul. All three of my boys love their grandparents and adore me! How have your kids helped others? All of my kids are very well mannered and helpful with chores around the house. Margaret, what would you like to tell Donato, Stephon & Dametreus? I want to thank you all for becoming the respectful young men that I taught you to be. I’m so proud of you all. I love you so much!
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COMMUNITY & EDUCATION
Children of the Future Can Lead the Way 13 year old Orange, New Jersey resident, Curtis Mark tells us about himself and shares how he helps in his community. Tell us about yourself? My name is Curtis Mark. I am an active member of a youth group called “ADAPT” which stands for Alcohol and Drugs Abuse Prevention Team. Our goal is to put a stop to the usage of alcohol and drugs for kids ages 13-18 in our community. Also, I have worked in my school’s Scholars Academy, where we created an informational history book about the Orange community that will be published and used for the third graders. I am so excited about that!
choose to do, as long as its positive, we will stand beside you.” What inspires you to help people in your community? I always liked helping individuals. It comes naturally. I was in my guidance counselors office and I saw a flier on her desk about volunteering in our community. After reading the flyer, I have been volunteering ever since.
What have you found most challenging and I was recently selected to be a cast member in most rewarding about volunteering your time an upcoming kids fitness film named “Play to help people in your community? To Win” and I also started playing musical The most challenging thing would have to be instruments such as the guitar and the violin! not seeing people my age involve themselves in As far as dancing is concerned, that has to be their community. The most rewarding thing is one of the most inspiring activities for me. My when they do, it helps out a lot! long term goal is getting my masters degree in law and I also would like to work with a very Message from Curtis Mark’s mother inspirational mentor. I am really well known Words can not describe how proud I am of for being an actor, dancer, model, martial artist Curtis. Since, he was around the age of four, he and a talented reader. They bring me much joy had the mind of an older child. Curtis would sit and I can’t imagine being myself without these and have a grown up conversation on what he wonderful things. wants to do and you had no other choice but to Who is a positive role model in your life? listen and question yourself. I am mostly proud of the goals he has set for himself and how he is and why? going about accomplishing them so far. My mother, father, sister, and brother all inspire me because they always say, “What ever you - Ismay Mark
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COMMUNITY & EDUCATION
Why Did Daddy Kill Mommy? Founded by Donna Bartos with Judge Lynn Toler from the television show Divorce Court, as a Board member, The Purple Ribbon Council’s mission is to educate youth, engage communities and empower families to prevent Domestic Abuse through projects that break the cycle, break the silence and change lives. I organized awareness raising events in Brooklyn, New York through The Purple Ribbon Council.
“Why did daddy kill mommy?” my little sister asked me. With a blank helpless stare I replied, “I don’t know. “I don’t know.” As a 15-year-old girl losing both parents to Domestic Violence, I did not have answers to many questions. One thing was certain though. I would never see my mom again. On Friday, November 22, 1991, my father shot and killed my mother in our home. My two siblings, ages three and eight, witnessed the horror as I was on the phone calling for help. With the help of God, we were able to escape the house while our father unsuccessfully searched for us. One of the Assistant District Attorney’s on our case told me that we were lucky. “Usually men kill the entire family.” Lucky? It didn’t feel like luck, living as an orphan, missing the love of my parents. For many years, I just wanted to lie down in the coffin next to my mom and just die. Then one morning in 2010, I woke up and came to the realization that God saved me that night for a reason. I decided to use my life experiences to help others who may be suffering in homes riddled with violence as mine was. I researched online and found one non-profit organization in the United States that catered to children orphaned by Domestic Violence-The Purple Ribbon Council (purple ribbons show solidarity in the fight against Domestic Violence). 30 | JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com
have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Please keep in mind that most instances of Domestic Violence go unreported. Fortunately there are many more programs available to victims of Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence than there were when my mother was alive. If your partner is physically or emotionally hurting you or you know someone who is experiencing this, help is available. Call 311 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or if you are in immediate danger, please call 911. Now that I am an advocate, I am no longer steeped in despair. I have truly found fulfillment whereas I can use the memory of my beloved mother to help others, transforming pain into joy.
At my previous place of employment, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, I initiated a Domestic Violence awareness campaign along with the Director of the Employee Assistance Program, Lorraine Brooks. On a regular basis, we distributed free literature offered by the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence to patients, staff, doctors and medical students and organized events, such as creative photo displays in the hallways and an annual Poetry In Purple show where local talents performed For Domestic Violence Awareness month and survivors shared their stories of living with (October), Nicole Sharpe and Soul Radiance Promotions have organized their 4th Annual Domestic Violence. Purple Power! Domestic Violence Awareness The awareness projects proved useful. People Fundraiser to benefit the Purple Ribbon in abusive situations started to come forward, Council Fund for Children. The brunch is a wanting instruction on how to leave. All they ticketed event and will take place on Saturday, needed was that extra push to help save their October 25th - 11:00am at the restaurant, lives and the lives of their children. Trelawni Place located at 1440 Utica Avenue. For ticket information, please check Event Brite Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence under PURPLE POWER! 2014 - Silence Hides is not a personal issue between two people as it is Violence. commonly thought to be. It is a social epidemic, so it affects all of us as a community. Silence is a By NICOLE SHARPE symptom and the main tool used to perpetuate this disease so it is our responsibility, as fellow members of our human society, to speak out against it. Domestic Violence claims the lives of many on a daily basis. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, in the United States, there are over 16,000 intimate partner related homicides annually. More than 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and 1 in 4 men (28.5%)
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
From the Big Screen to the Canvas Brooklyn Raised Haitian Native Artist “Unncut” sits down with WIA magazine to explain how his vision shifted from X-Casting director to his very own “UncuttArt” art work pieces. Unncut explains his transition and what made him switch from one career to the next.
Tell us about yourself. Well, everybody knows me as Un, I’m an X-Casting director for 8yrs, My first Project was “BELLY” that was my era. Worked with the likes of Hype Williams, Spike Lee, Lil X, Benny Boom and many more. On my spare time I like to help other reach their goals & full potential. That’s why I started my Management Agency www. AnomalyModels.com where I’m in charge of the consultant part of the company. Other than that we have my Art. I am in love with my ability to create. I have been working on developing my style since 03 and 10yrs later I’m introducing to the world my UncuttArt. I want to use my art as a way to gain a voice in my community. I want to be able to reach the youth and with my popularity I will be able to explain my art in comparison to life and all its attributes. I want to spark the young minds and show them as many possibilities as I can. I also like to study up on me. I spend a lot of my other time thinking, meditating & researching about human behavior, & body language. The more I know about myself the easier it is for me to communicate with every different type of people.
Did you always know you were going to be in arts and entertainment? Entertainment! Yes! Art! Hell no! As a child I loved to create, but I never had that future vision fed to me that being an artist was within my reach. Did you endure any hardships/struggles to reach your level of success? Hardship, (lol) struggle, (ha). Well that’s an ongoing process that’s never going to end. So long as you’re climbing uphill with things coming down at you, you will endure a lot. To be honest I like to forget about struggles & hardships but I’ll tell you this; doing everything by yourself is so difficult! I have a lot of people around me who say they want to help but they are waiting on me to tell them what to do. Well, “if I built the car & now driving to the destination & I pick you up along the way, because you say you down to ride. How you going to expect me to tell you what to do when I’m busy driving. I let go of the wheel & we both going to crash.” my point is, finding people who already know how they can help based on their abilities is not easy.
My art is a representation of the way I think and the way I think influences people. I want to change the way people think and look at things. I want to teach people how to always find the best in everything & everybody.
How often do you work on your craft?
How did art influence your life?
Every day and all day. I am either on YouTube learning something new, learning about the greats before me & the grounds they broke & the way they did it. I’m always thinking of ways to reinvent their techniques to work with my style.
Art allows me to keep pushing the envelope. Just when I think I can’t create something better than the last piece, I do. I keep helping myself prove me wrong to the point that it starts proving me right. I have always known that I’m going to do something better than the last one. Art gives me that freedom that I always want. It is my get away from your reality into mines. Art is always around me and learning the appreciation of it was the best thing I’ve ever learned because since then, I’ve been able to find art in everything around me.
Who would you like to ultimately work with to reach a higher goal?
What inspires creativity for your works of art? The likes of Dali, Basquiat & Bansky. Their style is unique & defines them. I want to stand out because being like everybody else isn’t fun. How does creating works of art make you feel? It inspires me all the time; to know my reason behind creating makes me feel good.
How have you used your talent to change or influence the people around you?
What are some of your long term and your short term goals? Short Term: I’m working on my 1st ever art show. I want to do a 3 day show where I will display 25 or more pieces. 48x58 in each case; this will be my debut so I want it to be grand. Long Term: To travel the world with my art, explaining my art explains my way of thinking. I would like to one day be a motivational speaker.
Wow, I would love to work with Shepard Fairey on the art tip. So, many more artists who I’m now learning about. What advice would you give an aspiring artist/ entertainer? The first thing is never give up on your goal. 2 never let anybody tell you that you can’t do it, they can’t do it. You can do it! Just have to figure it out, there’s always a way. Always push yourself to do better. Patience is very important and being consistent. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY @ WIAmagazine.com | 31
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Reggae Artist Celebrate Caribbean Day Parade with live Concert Event in Queens WIA Magazine was on-the-scene as Power 105.1’s DJ Norie hosted his Annual ‘Anything Goes” star studded concert event at “Amazura” in Jamaica, Queens. Beenie Man closed out the show with a 45 minute set of all his most popular tunes giving all a great time to end the night.
SHAGGY
Story & Photos by: Marjorie Flash WIA Magazine was on-the-scene as Power 105.1’s DJ Norie hosted his Annual ‘Anything Goes” star studded concert event at “Amazura” in Jamaica, Queens. Special guest and performers included Beenie Man, Sanchez, Gyptian. Shaggy, Agent Sasco (aka Assassin), Spice, Kranium, Tessanne Chin, Tifa, Khago. Ricky Blaze Grandapa James. & Trabass¸ A packed room of spectators were in for a treat when Tarrus Riley passed through and performed a few songs along with the star-studded lineup. Sanchez and Shaggy and Agent Sasco and Tessanne Chin performed duets further thrilling the huge crowd. Beenie Man closed out the show with a 45 minute set of all his most popular tunes giving all a great time to end the night.
DJ NOIRE
GYPTIAN
BEENIE MAN
SHAGGY AND SANCHEZ
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TARRUS RILEY
AGENT SASCO
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Oliver Samuels “Dolly House” Coming to Brooklyn and Queens late November, they will begin rehearsals for their 2015 production, a new play. October 4-5 is the only time Dolly House will be staged in New York City. “October 4 is Oliver’s birthday. I am inviting all Oliver Samuels fans to celebrate with him. After, the play on Saturday, there will be a big birthday bash for him. Location will soon be announced,” says Herman Hall who has promoted Oliver Samuels in the American northeast for over twenty years.” EVERYBODY’S Magazine and Herman Hall Communications promoted Oliver Samuels plays from 1990-2011 but took a sabbatical in 2012 and 2013. Tickets for Dolly House are available online: and Dennis Titus still have me cracking up. Tell www.everybodysmag.com and in person at the me when it is coming to Boston or New York following outlets: Dennis Shipping (Brooklyn and I’ll come down to see it.” and Bronx), VP Records, Door Restaurant and Emailing her cousin in NY, Jasmin living in Genesis Restaurant (Queens) and Allan’s Bakery Kingston wrote, “Every time I go to see Oliver in Brooklyn. Kindly call (718) 941-1879 for Like other Oliver Samuels’ plays, Dolly House I’ll say this is my last time because I have seen additional information. so many of his plays. Yet, I go back and each is appropriate for the entire family. time it’s a different experience. I have seen Dolly Dolly House is a brilliant blend of Jamaica and House two times already. I encourage fans to see the Caribbean much loved topics - politics, Dolly House.” power, intimacy, class, mistrust and betrayal – The setting is a tenement yard in Kingston. Who packaged into a hilarious play. knows! It may have been the same tenement Joy Daphne Grandison posted on Facebook, yard Bob Marley described in his classic, “No “At the Oliver Samuels play, ‘Dolly House,’ last woman no cry.” With a Chinese woman (Ruth night (in Florida on Labor Day Weekend), I Ho Shing), a young dreadlock man (Dennis had a blast, two shows sold out, audience loved Titus) and a higgler (Audrey Reid) as tenants of it, it was off the chain, thank you Oliver and the the landlord (Oliver Samuels), something must cast, excellent.” happen in that yard and in the building, “Dolly It is Caribbean theater and comedy at its best House.” which have audiences laughing from the raising Last Mother’s Day weekend Samuels sold out of the curtain to the end of the play. “I am still Dolly House at venues in Toronto. The final leg laughing. I saw Dolly House in Toronto,” says of the tour begins in Florida and will end in the Veronica Collins. “As usual Oliver was at his best UK in November. and the twist and turn of the comedy through brilliant acting by Audrey Reid, Ruth Ho Shing Once Oliver and the cast return to Jamaica in Oliver Samuels latest play, Dolly House, starring Oliver Samuels, Audrey Reid, Dennis Titus and Ruth Ho Shing will be presented at Wingate Campus, Brooklyn and York College, Queens, in the City of New York, October 4-5, 2014.
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SELF HELP / INSPIRATION
THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING As a child growing up, I was taught that if you give, you shall receive. This belief is common in our society. We tend to have expectations when we give. We are looking to get something in return, whether it’s in the short run or in the long run. The biggest thing I’ve noticed is that time after time we tend to confuse the phrase “Give to Get” with the word “Gratitude”. This mentality is ingrained in us, and has led us to sometimes forget the true meaning of genuinely giving. We forget to take the necessary time to show appreciation and to thank those who matter most to us. For instance the teacher’s who care for our children on a daily basis, our parents for being there when we needed them most, our friends for being such awesome supporters, our spouses for understanding us, doctors who cares for us and our love ones, our grandparents for just being so loving. Lets not wait for the special moment or
Jamaica Born Queens Raised Sudan Deane expresses the righteousness and benefits of giving with understanding. WIA sits down with inspirational ambassador as she exclaims the stigma in our reality.
occasions or for something to go wrong with our loved ones before we acknowledge them. Let’s not only shower them with material things on special occasions, but also start showering them with gratitude and appreciation. A simple phone call, a visit to grandma’s house, or a hand written letter can go a long way. Expressing your feelings of gratitude can mean so much. These are the things that people will cherish and hold dear in their heart for a life time. There’s something about showing gratitude that brings peace, love and unity. It’s humbling to the heart for both the recipient and the person making the offering. The opportunity arises to give without seeking anything in return, just simply giving, acknowledging, and rewarding those we love and appreciate by showing Gratitude. by Sudan Deane
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WIA PRIDE WIA magazine went out asking members of the community about the country they came from and or its people, What is it that makes them proud?
Diane Adlam-Ferguson | Brooklyn Jamaican
I Love My Country Because... As a Jamaican I can say I really love the beauty of my country which attracts millions of tourist each year to enjoy such beauty like our beaches, the food and the tranquility of the Island with places like Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Mountain, Ocho Rios and Holland Bamboo to name a few. Another love and pride of my country would have to be the people’s ability to endure through tough times. I can remember my mother’s struggle to feed my brothers and sisters, all the while with a smile on her face. This is why in 2008, I return to my country to start “The Giving Tree-Jamaica” to provide support to communities that are struggling. So, what do I love about my country? That’s easy, it’s the beauty, the heritage, the culture and the resilience of MY people. I conclude with the words of the famous Harry Belafonte - “Oh island in the sun, Willed to me by my father’s hand, All my days I will sing in praise , Of your forest waters, your shining sand.”
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CAREER-MONEY & FINANCE
Good Jobs That Don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree In the new world economy, self-employment is not merely option. It is the primary objective for men and women who are seriously thinking about their future. Life should be lived to the fullest, and an entire lifetime of employment is a life that is half empty at best. On a short term basis, jobs can assist you in reaching your goal by buying you some time, while teaching you valuable skills that may prove useful in your entrepreneurial endeavors. Many people spend thousands of dollars on a college education to acquire
these skills through cushy high-paying jobs. However, in today’s uncertain economy, a college education no longer guarantees you a high-paying job. But on the flip side, if you don’t want to go to college, you don’t have to. You can still get a good job without a bachelor’s degree. Here are a few job positions that you just might want to consider as you work your way towards financial independence. The information has been provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By: Vivian Giang & Adika Butler
Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers
First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers
Median annual wage (2012): $69,300
Median annual wage (2012): $59,700
Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent
Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent
Projected job openings (through 2022): 150,200
Projected job openings (through 2022): 187,100
Work experience: Five years or more Description: Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers run establishments that produce crops, livestock, and dairy products.
Work experience: Five years or more Description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.
On-the-job training: None
On-the-job training: None
Dental hygienists
Aerospace engineering and operations technicians
Median annual wage (2012): $70,210
Median annual wage (2012): $61,530
Claims Adjusters, Examiners and Investigators Median annual wage (2012): $59,960 Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent Projected job openings (through 2022): 80,300 Work experience: None Description: Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators evaluate insurance claims. On-the-job training: Long-term on-the-job training
Subway and streetcar operators Median annual wage (2012): $62,730
Degree required: Associate’s degree
Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent
Projected job openings (through 2022): 2,100
Projected job openings (through 2022): 3,300
Work experience: None
Work experience: None
Work experience: None
Description: Clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases such as gingivitis, and provide other preventative dental care.
Description: Aerospace engineering and operations technicians operate and maintain equipment used in developing, testing, and producing new aircraft and spacecraft
Description: Transport passengers.
Degree required: Associate’s degree Projected job openings (through 2022): 113,500
On-the-job training: None
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On-the-job training: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term on-the-job training
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Fashion Sense Meets Business Intellect Queens Raised Haitian Native Roni Francois sits down with WIA magazine to explain how his vision shifted the fashion industry around him. Tell us about your company:
Did you endure any hardships or struggles? If yes, tell us about them
I have created a wardrobe consulting and styling company called “Roncois”. At Roncois, we strongly believe, the better our clientele are packaged, the more public acceptance they’ll receive. We understand our clientele are engaged in their individual industries and careers, they simply don’t have time to personal shop, research trends and coordinate fashion looks.
Yes, when starting a business from the ground up. The struggles I believe, normally come from two main sources; one is finances and the other is yourself. Revenue is needed to help create and build a brand and the hardship of remaining positive and relentless through rough patches. But, I have remained resilient by remaining consistent and following my passion, my mission. By exemplifying a relentless work ethic.
Our objective is simple: become an asset to our clientele. With our seamless processes, exceptional attention to details and cutting edge creativity, we have the ability to research the fashion market, identify and structure upcoming trends and coordinate personal style profiles. “Roncois” is a wardrobe and styling company that assists private clients in refining their personal style to be more consistent with their personal brand and collaborates with publications on editorial productions. How often do you work on your craft and what inspires you? I’m constantly researching the fashion market for the latest ideas and new trends. I am inspired by works of art in fashion, music, film and art design.
What are some of your long term and your short term goals ? My short term goals are working with commercial publications, iconic individuals and television. My long term goals are to create a program or machine that will better assist people with fashion and help build their confidence. Confidence and dressing go hand and hand. What inspirational advice would you give to an aspiring artist/ entertainer? Figure out what motivates and moves you, remain consistent, dedicated and disciplined and never stop in your pursuit.
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SELF HELP & INSPIRATION
YOU ARE YOUR NUMBERS
Numbers are everywhere in your life, your height, your weight, your clothes size, your shoe size, age, address of home and work; from the time you wake up until the time you go back to sleep, everything you do is associated with numbers. The Scriptures are replete with numbers, an entire book in the Judeo-Christian Bible called “Numbers,” is devoted to their importance in Jewish life and history. So, let’s be clear contrary to some religious teachings – the study and application of Numbers has nothing to do with the occult. Numbers are the Creators way of providing an accurate “how to manual” on how to conduct your life and find compatibility with others.
If you have never paid attention to that fact, begin to do so now, because you will quickly learn that your entire existence is enveloped in the world of numbers that coexist with everything you do. Numbers rule our existence and the stability of the universe. Numbers create Vibrations which ultimately resonate on a mental and physical level. So, let’s get you started in discovering what your numbers are, find a pen and paper or a calculator, are you ready? I will give you some basic rules that are easy to follow, once you start you’ll develop a lifelong fascination with numbers, let’s begin. In the Science of numbers we initially take three (3) attributes in consideration: (1) the day or
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date you were born, (2) the month, day and year you were born and, (3) your given names. This is much less complicated than Astrology and provides accurate and immediate information that almost anyone can do for themselves. Let me offer you some basic rules of the Science, so you can begin to feel the power, (empowerment).
+ 1+9+8+8 = (30) Ok? Stay with me, her total birth date equals #30 which is 3+0 = (3), we call that number her life path, it is the number through which she expresses her sensational artistry, evoking powerful emotions from both individuals and crowds. The 3 also indicates that she is far more spiritual and intellectual than most would believe,the power of # 3 makes her Rule #1 The basic number system counts from an enigma, possessing a taste and appreciation 1- 9, i.e, 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9, if you go to 10 you for the finer things in life, yet enjoys simplicity are back to 1 since 1+0 = 1, to 12 you are back and life itself. to 3, since 1+ 2 = 3, you get the idea? Want to see something interesting, add all the numbers Now let’s talk about her personal number 20, in 1 – 9 together; 1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8+9 = 45, the day she was born, that’s really 2+0 = 2, so now add the sum of 45, that’s 4+5 = 9, we’re she is a personal # 2 – Sensitive, sympathetic right back to 9. and affectionate, a genuinely private person who is too often misunderstood for no other Why is the #9 so important? Well for one, it’s reason than negative publicity. If not for her the the sum of all the numbers before it - # 9 awesome talent Rihanna would not be a public represents the Cycle of Man and his existence, sensation. The Science of numbers is as pure as man is the micro-universe in the Creators macro- the numbers that support its existence, be a part universe, so the numbers 1 – 9 are inclusive of of the awakening of our collective consciousness all the experiences of which man is capable. So and begin to live abundantly. how does this help? Want to check out your Numbers, call our I will give a real life e.g., I have personally expert BERNARD at 718 692 2920 and re-set misunderstood Rihanna’s personality for too your internal GPS. long, so I decided to do her numbers in order to discover who she really is; for this purpose we We are expanding the limits of Human will only look at her date of birth – the lady is Potential! a Pisces, February 20, 1988, so February is the 2nd month of the year, so we write that 2 + 20
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