WSSNEWS Bloggers

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: JOBS, LABOR TRADE, AND UNIONS

M_Id_406132_Amazon_Jobs

By Audrey Thompson

During this election season I have heard the Democratic Party telling African American voters why we have to get out the vote and vote for the Democrats, but here’s what I have to say about that.

Jobs, jobs, jobs! The unemployment rate for African Americans in the Inland Empire has always been the highest of all races and voting for some of the local Democrats have not changed that fact. Labor Unions and Trades certainly do not employ African Americans to the extent they can and they give the  most money to Democrats running for office. Yet, Democrats come to our community and expect us to vote for them, no questions asked. Democrats are owned by the Unions and will not speak out against the Unions and Labor on our behalf. For Democrats Union money is more important than our vote. Well let’s show them this election how powerful our vote is!

How many times have we had the conversation about driving down the freeway under construction and we see no African American working on that project? How many times have we drove by building and housing construction projects and did not see any African American working on that project?

Why is it that Labor Unions and Trades have Black Labor Unions and Trades divisions? No brainer, if the Unions and Trades were fair to our workers and black leadership representation, we certainly would not need a black division. It is almost impossible for Blacks to get apprenticeship positions in Labor and Trades. Yet again, Labor Union and Trades give the most money to Democrats locally, statewide and nationally. They are so bad out here in the Inland Empire that when it comes time for the Riverside/San Bernardino Central Labor Council Secretary/Treasurer, Laurie Stalnaker,  to interview candidates running for election, they don’t even invite African American candidates who have half a chance. She invites African American candidates who she knows will lose the race or have no competition in a race. CLC, Laurie Stalnaker, will not interview a viable black candidate in a significant powerful elected position. She has to be called on the carpet to interview certain African American candidates for the Union to interview for their endorsement.

And to add insult to injury, Miss Laurie is also a Delegate for the California Democratic party and a Delegate for Pete Aguilar. There have been several complaints against Laurie Stalnaker to the California State Democratic party for her racism and supporting the Republican candidate over the  Democrat candidate. The Democratic party has taken no action against her. Laurie Stalnaker has financed  Republican candidates that helped put the City of San Bernardino into Bankruptcy. However, if an African American Democratic candidate supports a Republican the same Democratic party will use their by-laws to not endorse the African American candidate.  I am telling you what God loves and that is the truth.

Black folk, please be informed. Let’s take a closer look at the candidates coming to our churches and community centers asking for our vote. Democrats know that 80% of African Americans who actually go to the polls and vote will vote for a Democrat no matter who the Democrat is and no questions asked! That is not the case with all other populations of voters. Be informed, hear what both parties have to say. Don’t just take for granted that the Democrat has your best interest at heart. Be informed!

What we need most are jobs and if the Unions Labor and Trades have the most invested in the Democrats who are asking for our vote maybe we should consider the other candidate. The only thing we have is our vote, and the only way to make the Democratic party understand we mean business is to vote for the other guy. How many times are we going to be hoodwinked, bamboozled and duped by our Democratic party?

Ferguson: A Painful Reminder of Black Angst and Anger

Hakim Hazim

Hakim Hazim

By Hakim Hazim  

People call us loud and rightfully so. History teaches us that we must seize the opportunity to channel national attention toward the injustices we face. We are a loud people with voices that carry and at times we get caught in the emotion and don’t demonstrate proper restraint (I’m not talking about looting and the destruction of property. I’ll never give the criminal opportunists in our community the same standing as our sages and upstanding folks.). Wisdom provides restraint. This essay is an attempt to bring clarity to the events in Ferguson, Mo. It is an attempt to wrest the narrative away from all of the negative things perpetuated about our community and shine a light on how codified social stereotypes continue to be used against us in the media. The Black victim or the Black victimizer seems to be the only choice offered.  I believe Black Angst and anger and how these cousins are handled by us and law enforcement should be given equal time.

Angst is essentially the feeling of being told you are free to choose, but it’s accompanied by a perpetual anxiety about the outcomes of your choices. You believe your options are restricted to limited, insignificant rewards or heavy consequences. Anger at the injustice limited access to the American dream is the internal response. Authority is external imposition; leadership is internal elicitation. Authority is the art and science of imposing limits upon people and their actions, whereas leadership is the art and science of eliciting or drawing out the best in people’s decisions. Ferguson’s initial reaction was authority and the militarization of the city after the event. Its second response was leadership—drawing out the internal elements of trust, justice and responsible advocacy from the citizenry through the appointment of Captain Ronald Brown.

Society has progressed for us as a people, but for many financially struggling or impoverished Blacks, they don’t see it and are stuck. Ferguson has its own economic setting events.Alex Tabarrok is an internationally recognized economist and he has taken Ferguson to task based on his own research and a white paper by the ArchCity Defenders. What we are seeing is how cash-strapped local criminal justice systems in need of money use the law to secure resources. Citations of all types spiked. There are some glaring statistics.

Here’s the data:  Ferguson has 21,203 residents living in 8,192 homes. It’s 67% black and has violent crime rates consistent with the national average. However, its second largest source of revenue is court fines and fees: $2,635,400. That averages to three warrants and 1.5 case loads per home. Approximately 22% of the people are in poverty. If that’s not a powder keg, I’m not sure what is.

Now for us to continue to be proactive we must remember there are four things you can do with Angst and Anger as a Black person when it comes to dealing with our government:

  1. Stay passive and submit to injustice and grow bitter.
  2. Fight for reform,constructively,to better your situation and others.
  3. Seek an occupation with the government apparatus and fight for change.
  4. Become a token and profit from a system entrenched in ostensible narratives.

We really only have two legitimate options and I have done both: number (3) as an educator and correction specialist, and (2) now as a consultant. I’m most concerned about the narratives taking place on both sides. People use ostensible language narratives and theories that appear to be true, but in reality simply act as a cover for furthering misinformation—to create plausibility and then push their agenda ahead. As Black folks, we still need to hear the facts before making up our minds. And as far as the people perpetually against us, they will continue to recruit and place their mouthpieces in our community. I’ll also say this: we need to seek out new voices to address these crises that emerge in our community. We need nuanced, dexterous leaders who are focused on the future and securing the promises still afforded to us by a Creator who has not forgotten His covenant. Deal with the government, but put your faith in God folks. We know the epidemic of death among Black men through Black on Black crime and law enforcement sends the message that our lives have no value. I utterly reject this. Let’s love them before and after tragedy.

 

Celebrity Hair Stylist Shares His Gifts through Beauty and Fitness

Taco and rapper Trina

Taco and rapper Trina

By Naomi K. Bonman

Seattle, Washington native Turner Yarbrough, more commonly known as “Taco”, is on the brink of becoming a well-known celebrity nationwide hair stylist. As a child, Taco spent countless Saturdays in the salon with his mother as she received her weekly style. Though he and his brother hated being dragged there for hours on end, a spark for an interest in hair styling emerged in him.

Upon high school graduation, the charismatic Cancer enrolled in cosmetology courses at Seattle Central Community College and later transferred to Gene Juarez where he received his license in 2001. From there he opened his first salon, Reign Concept Salon, at the tender age of 19 where he was able to establish a loyal clientele.

Throughout the early stages of his career, Yarbrough continued to learn more to perfect his craft. He has received education from well known trainers which include Paul Mitchell, So. Cap, CHI, Unite and many more.

Not only is Taco an inspiration to his hair clients, but he is also an example for those struggling with weight loss. He has lost over 126 pounds and is now a certified personal trainer. In a recent interview with the rising stylist and fitness guru, he discussed his future goals, motivations and most memorable career highlights.

Naomi: What inspired you to get into the hair industry?

Taco: My mother. She used to drag me to the hair salon and I hated it! [laughs] My cousin LaShawn was also a braider when we were growing up and she [subconsciously] kind of helped to push me into this.

Naomi: What makes you stand out from other stylists? What makes you unique?

Taco: My character. I’m just a funny guy. I’m a big personality. I know that there are a lot of hair stylists that have big personalities, nut I’m just different. I love to have fun and to make sure that everyone is okay by catering to the atmosphere. [I like to make sure that] that everything flows cohesively.

I think what also separates me is that I’m just crazy, passionate. I can only separate myself from the things that within myself meaning that I’m not separate from people, but that my own challenge is myself.

Naomi: You mentioned that your personality shines on set. Is there a reality show in the works?

Taco: There are talks of it. We’re actually putting some things together. I think it would be hilarious [laughs]. I’m just Taco, there’s no explanation for it. I’m just a crazy guy who’s always singing and doing something different. If someone is shy, I’m that kind of guy that helps them get out of themselves so that they can have an awesome experience.

Naomi: How did you come with the name Taco? It’s a very interesting and unique nickname?

Taco: My name came from my Grandma, In larger families, you tend to get stuck with various nick names that follow you for life”. [laughs].

Naomi: [laughs] Interesting. So who are some of your top celebrity clients?

Taco: I just wrapped up a photo shoot with Colyesia Chestnut from MTV’S ‘Are You the One?’ My main client that I love so much is Bad Medina, which is Floyd Mayweather’s massage therapist. One of my long time clients is Tori Lucas who just married Jamal Crawford. I just had the opportunity to cut Trina’s hair. She was really sweet, warm and welcoming.

Taco in action

I’ve also done several events such as a Women Standing Tall calendar which featured Shonie O’Neal and the rest of the basketball wives before they were on the show. It was cool to be a part of that before they went big.

Naomi: How did you get your start into doing hair for celebrities?

Taco: I’m a firm believer in what’s for me is for me. It just comes. I’ ve never advertised or put myself in the newspaper. I let my clients spread the word which say’s a lot on what people believe and see in my skills which I’ ve seen as a blessing to have come so far off just recommendations.

Naomi: How do you make the every day, average client feel like a celebrity?

Taco: My salon in Seattle is called Reign Concept Salon where I work with some of the most amazing girls, and there we create an experience. I’m always singing and serenading them (clients). I make them feel like celebrities because with every single client, no matter how tired I am, I’m going to give them that attention. To me, they are celebrities because they patronize me, and they feel a part of the process of me coming to new horizons [in my career].

Naomi: How did you come with the name Reign Concept Salon?

Taco: I am a Christian, and my whole belief system is to always know and to allow God to reign in your life. When I think of reign, I think of God. It’s my reminder to never puff myself up and to always be humble, and that He reigns over all.

Naomi: What has been your most memorable highlight in your hair career thus far?

Taco: I had a woman, just an ordinary woman, that came in and she thought her hair was damaged.  You could tell she had low esteem and that she was going through some things in her life. When I did her hair, I did it with so much love and took my time to not only love on her hair but to love on her. When I finished and turned her around to the mirror, the level of emotion that she expressed made her feel as if she was brand new, and it healed her. For me that was my gift to her. I didn’t make her pay. Sometimes it’s the little things that have the biggest affect on your life.

Naomi: Going into the fitness side of things, what kept you motivated to keep pushing towards your weight loss goal?

Taco: I was always a sort of overweight kid. I battled with a lot of low self-esteem. I definitely covered that up through my personality. It’s been three years since I lost over 126 pounds. I used to be 358 pounds, and was cast for The Biggest Loser twice, but that didn’t come through. They always chose the next person over me.

I have a wife and 5-year-old daughter, and needed to live for them. In this career you have to be healthy. So, I just said ‘ I’m tired. I can’t wait for The Biggest Loser to do it for me. I have to do this’. I just started. My inspiration is myself. I have to conquer me, and I want to do me as a physique body builder one day.

Taco, before and after his weight loss journey

Taco, before and after his weight loss journey

Naomi: Nice! So with body building being a fitness goal, what are some of your others?

Taco: That’s the next fitness goal, to compete as a Physique Body builder. I’ ve been blessed to pick up an international sponsorship with Pro Supps. They are absolutely amazing and they took me on because I started with them in the beginning of my weight loss journey and I was loyal to them. They give me so much love and support and I really appreciate that. I also want to lose another 35 pounds to aid me in my “road to the stage” to compete.

Naomi: What changes did you make in your diet?

Taco: Whew, so many changes! Your diet has to be on point. I learned healthy eating habits from pro body builder Alden Gamet who coached me in losing my first 100 pounds. I went from eating McDonalds three times a day to learning how to prep meals, weigh my food and portion control.

Naomi: What advice do you for those who struggle with weight loss and lose that focus to get to their goal, and that try different regiments that don’t work out for them?

Taco: My advice is to just go. The first step is to just get there. In the beginning you don’t want to do it because your body is used to whatever current routine that it is in. Your mind changes as you begin to change. Also, connect with people that will encourage you and keep nothing but positivity around you. Anything that is new is going to be difficult; the key is to just go. If you do fall back, don’t stay there. Get back up and keep moving.

Naomi: What are your overall personal goals that you want to achieve in life?

Taco: My overall goal is for the world to know me and  to not only be successful, but highly respected and sought after  globally for hair and health.

The sky is the limit for me, and I’m very excited about my publicist. I absolutely love her. Trea Davenport and Trea Day Management are just amazing. I have a lot of support around me, and at the end of the day, I’m just ready to go and welcome success.

To keep up with Taco’s career endeavors, follow him on Instagram @TacoMarche and @TacoReign. For booking inquiries, please contact Trea Davenport at treadaypr@gmail.com or (678) 327-8281

 

Tips for home improvement on a limited budget

Luis Dominguez, Vice President and Branch Manager, MUFG Union Bank, N.A.  

Luis Dominguez, Vice President and Branch Manager, MUFG Union Bank, N.A.

Your home may be the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime.  Regular home improvement projects can help add value and make your home a more comfortable place to live. Your home is likely one of the largest investments you’ll make in your lifetime, and home improvement projects can add value to your investment.

If major home improvement isn’t in your budget this year, here are a few inexpensive tips that may help:

Paint

On average, a gallon of paint costs around $25, making painting one of the simplest and most cost-effective improvements to add appeal to your home.  Review design magazines and Web sites or visit model homes in your area for ideas about how you might add a splash of color or freshen up a room with paint.  Identify areas inside and outside of your home that need attention. Then use sand paper to smooth out rough or peeling areas and use spackle to fill holes.  You might also reference DIY Web sites for tips to help you prep, paint and clean up.

Curb appeal

Simple and inexpensive landscaping projects can create a great first impression.  Planting flowers in pots by the front door, along a walkway, or in window boxes is a simple and inexpensive way to add charm to your home.  Shade trees planted strategically not only add appeal, but could help lower cooling costs.  Contact your utility company for tips on varieties that grow well in your area, as well as where they should be planted to maximize shade and avoid coming into contact with power lines.

Welcoming entrance

Invest in a new front door, or repaint,stain or refinish your existing door.  Install a brass kick plate and polish the hardware, or purchase a new door knob and deadbolt.  Make sure your visitors can find you by installing inexpensive, yet stylish address numbers available at home improvement stores.  Complete the look with a tasteful welcome mat.

Kitchen or bathroom facelift

Even if you can’t afford a full remodel, small changes that freshen up an outdated kitchen or bathroom can have a big impact.  For a few hundred dollars, you can replace the faucet, hang new racks or shelves, and add new cabinet pulls and handles.  Consider new paint, stain the cabinets, or visit manufactures’ Web sites to purchase new doors at a fraction of the cost of replacing the cabinets. If the countertop looks dingy, consider re-grouting and replacing chipped tiles, or shop for a remnant piece of granite or marble for a new countertop or backsplash.

Lighting

Interior and exterior lighting not only provide your home with functionality and security, but  updating old lighting fixtures with brighter, more energy-efficient ones can create an appealing ambiance while lowering energy costs.  A simple track lighting kit can be purchased at home improvement stores and allows you to brighten just about any area.  Bring architectural details, plants and other objects to life with inexpensive freestanding or clip-on lights.  Or simply purchase a new lamp shade or use a little spray paint to give new life to an old chandelier.

Architectural interest

If you’re handy with a saw and other tools, adding a chair rail, picture molding, crown molding, or baseboards are inexpensive ways to bring value and beauty to your home.  Consider purchasing a few extra yards of molding or trim to make some practice cuts, and be sure to always wear appropriate hearing, eye and respiratory protection when operating power tools.

On a final note, look for construction surplus businesses like Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores— nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials, and appliances to the public at a fraction of the retail price. To find one in your community, visit www.habitat.org/restores.

The foregoing article is intended to provide general information about home improvement on a limited budget and is not considered financial or tax advice. Please consult your financial or tax advisor.

About MUFG Union Bank, N.A.

Luis Dominguez is a vice president and branch manager of the MUFG Union Bank, N.A., Miracle Mile branch.  MUFG Union Bank, N.A., is a full-service bank with offices across the United States.  We provide a wide spectrum of corporate, commercial, retail banking and wealth management solutions to meet the needs of customers.  The bank also offers an extensive portfolio of value-added solutions for customers, including investment banking, personal trust, capital markets, global treasury management, transaction banking and other services.  With assets of $108.8 billion (USD), as of June 30, 2014, the bank has strong capital reserves, credit ratings and capital ratios relative to peer banks.  MUFG Union Bank is a proud member of the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (NYSE: MTU), one of the world’s largest financial organizations with total assets of approximately ¥259 trillion (JPY) or $2.5 trillion (USD)1, as of June 30, 2014.  MUFG Americas Holdings Corporation, the financial holding company and MUFG Union Bank, N.A. have corporate headquarters in New York City.

1 Exchange rate of USD=¥101.36 (J-GAAP) as of June 30, 2014

 

Editor’s Letter: Young People Protest Change across the Globe

Atlanta protests held Monday, August 18 in front of the CNN Center

Atlanta protests held Monday, August 18 in front of the CNN Center

By Naomi K. Bonman

L.A. Protest Photo Credit:  Joe Satran (The Huffington Post)

L.A. Protest Photo Credit: Joe Satran (The Huffington Post)

Throughout the previous years we have heard about history repeating itself, and 50 years later after the Civil Rights Movement to this present day, we see are seeing what we dreaded would happen. History has been repeating itself for the past few years now, but on Saturday, August 10, after 18-year-old Michael Brown was gunned down in Ferguson, MO, outside of St. Louis, the issue of police brutality among African-Americans have sparked up the Nation causing multiple protests across the Country among both the young, seasoned and celebrity crowd.

In the immediate days after Brown was murdered the world seen yet another brutal shooting by the Los Angeles Police Department on Sunday, August 11, when 25-year-old Ezell Ford was shot and skilled by two officers while walking down the street near his home. According to the Huffington Post, by 2:30 p.m. several protesters had gathered in front of the LAPD headquarters. Protesters varied in age, race, ethnicity and creed. Some even came as far as San Bernardino, such as Sandra Nunez, who was there with her young daughter.

“I not only fear gang members killing my son, I fear the police killing my son. I feel helpless because I don’t know who will protect him from them”, she stated.

Another local L.A. resident, David Bryant, who is a former member of the Nation of Islam, stated that he has been arrested while protesting in exactly the same place in 1992, after the trial for officers who has beaten Rodney King.

“That was over 20 years ago, and here we go again. It’s déjà vu, but what else can you except when you have prostitutes and cowards as politicians”, he said.

Let us rewind back to July 17 in New York, before Brown was killed. Eric Garner, 43, who was an asthmatic father of six, was confronted by NYPD officers for allegedly selling untaxed cigarettes. When he resisted being cuffed, an officer appeared to put him in a chokehold, a tactic banned by the department since 1993.Garner was unable to breathe and unfortunately succumbed. The

Actress, singer, and business owner Tiffany Evans, joined protests for change in Atlanta

Actress, singer, and business owner Tiffany Evans, joined protests for change in Atlanta

city medical examiner later ruled Garner’s death a homicide, stating that neck compression from the chokehold killed him; however, officers involved in the arrest may not face charges if the homicide is found to be justifiable. Staten Island district attorney Daniel Donovan is investing the case.

Then on August 5 in Beavercreek, Ohio, two police officers responded to a 911 call about a man waving a gun at customers inside a Walmart store. According to the Beavercreek police department, John Crawford, 22, disregarded officers’ orders to disarm before being fatally shot in the chest. It later was reported that Crawford’s gun was a .177 calibre BB rifle that he had picked up from the store shelf.

On August 12, Dante Parker. 36, of Victorville, California who was a pressman at the Daily Press was tased by police after a Victorville resident told police a robbery suspect had fled on a bicycle. The police detained Parker, who by the way had no criminal background (other than a DUI), after a scuffle ensued which led to him being tased. He later died at a local hospital. The police assumed he was the suspect because he was found on a bicycle.

Who knows how long these protests will go on before justice is served and change is done. In the midst of these occurrences I read a statement from a young lady on Facebook, I do not remember her name, but she stated that “People react certain ways to prior fears”. She used an analogy of her being beat by a blue belt and as she gets older she still fears that blue belt every time she sees it because she

Atlanta protest. August 18, 2014

Atlanta protest. August 18, 2014

connects it to that incident of when she was beaten by it. So, the same goes for the police. Some may have a fear that could have been passed by to them by their ancestors, so instead of talking things out to come to a solution they automatically assume and react. Other law enforcement who do not have this fear, could just be a “dirty cop” instilled with evil and hate.

Hopefully at the end when all is said and done, we not only get the change that we need, but that Blacks start coming together as a people, as a force, because that is the only way we will get the deserved change that Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm XRosa Parks, and a countless number of others fought for 50 years ago. Right now they would all be turning in their graves to see how we have separated as a people and how our race has fallen. We don’t support each other in our business efforts as we should, we do not own hardly any big corporations, and the list goes on.

While you are out there protesting, keep in mind that as African-Americans/Blacks we need to continue to come together in unity. I would love to see a multitude of Black owned businesses emerging within the next years to come, and I would like to see us keep those businesses in our communities and for them not to be sold off to “white companies and investors”.

The Black community has the highest buying power, so if we take that power and put it back into our own communities, just imagine how much we would thrive as a community and what the future would like for our youth that will soon be taking over. Let’s be an example and stand up for what’s ours. Let’s take back our communities in a positive way.

I would love to hear your feedback, please tweet me at @NaomiKBonman on Twitter, or email me atnaomibonman@gmail.com.

Africans Living in the U.S. Connect with Culture through New Network

Spokesperson for Africa Magic GO, Juliet Ibrahim

Spokesperson for Africa Magic GO, Juliet Ibrahim

Interview by Naomi K. Bonman

Africa Magic GO has recently launched in the United States. The network is similar to “Hulu”, in offering the latest film and television series from the Continent of Africa. Now Africans living in the U.S., and other African culture lovers can connect with the African culture by tuning in via their computer and mobile devices.

This new service is available at just $8 a month where customers can stream hundreds of movies and TV shows. African Magic GO also helps people tap into the prolific offerings of the world’s largest film industry, Nollywood, as well as productions from other parts of Africa. To assist in getting the word out, popular Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim, is one of the new spokespeople for the network.

In addition to acting, Miss Ibrahim is a business-oriented person who proudly owns Envoque Beauty Parlor, House of Glamour boutique, Dolfins Modeling Agency, and Jewels Productions. She also recently delved into music and is soon to debut her album. In December 2011, the actress launched her Juliet Ibrahim Foundation (JIF) to start an awareness campaign about kidney cancer. The JIF is aimed at helping Ghanaians and other West African citizens to know their status and prevent kidney cancer from getting to the incurable stage. JIF is poised to help save lives and put smiles on the faces of the less fortunate living with kidney cancer but can’t afford to handle their bills.

Question and Answer with Miss Juliet:

Naomi K. Bonman: What inspired you to become involved with Africa Magic GO?

Juliet Ibrahim: Africa Magic is a major brand in Africa. It is a privilege to be a part of their new product Africa Magic GO, which enables Africans in the Diaspora to stay in touch with their roots while living abroad. Finally, my fans living abroad can get to watch my exclusive movies, TV shows and TV series way before the movie comes out on DVD. It’s a good brand to be associated with as a celebrity from Africa. For my fans reading this article, they can log on to www.africamagicgo.com and register and watch one of my latest movies on there is called “Blurred Lines.”

Naomi K. Bonman: What projects are you currently working on?

Juliet Ibrahim: I just wrapped filming my second personal movie production called “Shattered Romance,” and it’s a project I am so proud of. It features both Nigerian and Ghanaian actors. I am also promoting my new music video “It’s Over Now,” which is enjoying a lot of airplay currently. Lastly, I’ve been on a campaign to educate the public and create awareness for my kidney cancer awareness foundation; it’s been successful so far.

Naomi K. Bonman: Do you have any upcoming plans on doing more work here in the States?

Juliet Ibrahim: Certainly! I intend to work here in the States and am very open to offers and various opportunities here. I am not limited to working only in Africa. I am currently looking for an amazing PR person and manager out here in the U.S. so we get a lot of work done. Juliet Ibrahim is a brand that I believe needs to expand and be known worldwide. I have plans of launching my NGO in the United States as well; it’s already been registered out here.

For more information on the network, visit www.africamagicgo.com. To read more on Juliet Ibrahim visit www.julietibrahim.net.

Interview with I.E.’s Got Talent Winner, Michael Bennett

IEs Got Talent group photo

IEs Got Talent group photo

By Mitchell Young

Hello world , today I got to get footage of the IE’s Got talent winner Michael Bennett and his female singer Crystal doing what they do best at the Art-institute of Technology high tech recording studio. As a reward for winning the competition, Michael got the chance to record a 5 song EP while the instructors and the head engineer, Romeo, made his studio time into valuable learning time for the A.I. students to understand how to work the boards and record.
Crystal is 18-years-old and currently attends Mount Sack Junior college to get her A.A. She will then transfer to a four-year college. In her free time she pushes her self vocally through choir and gig’in with bump town band.
Micheal is a 17-year-old singer who dreams to inspire others through beautiful music and winning Chords IE’s got talent helped bring his dream to reality. His main goal in mind is to be financially stable and positioned  to open a charity to help others in need, while also promoting a positive movement with his music. Micheal currently attends Ayala high school but plans to attend California Baptist University (CBU)  to study more about music and enhance his vocals as a singer. His passion for music started in January 2012  at a garage party when he got put in the spot light to sing karaoke, and from there untapped talent emerged. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family, going to church, and playing trombone with his band. His motto is, “Each no is closer to a yes, so continue to push your self”!

Triple Crowns Summer Softball Blast

LtoR-Natia Martin, Sydne Soloman,Chelsey Gore of Nashville ,Tenn-Nighthawks

LtoR-Natia Martin, Sydne Soloman,Chelsey Gore of Nashville ,Tenn-Nighthawks

Photos and story Earl Heath

FORT COLLIN, CO-As summer seasons brings out the best in most of us, Triple Crowns Sports brings together the best young softball from around  the country and  the world. The Sparkler tournament for ages 16U and 18U had more than 500 teams from the USA, Guam, Canada and Australia.

The Junior Sparkler (14U and 12U) took place in the Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley area. It had more than 200 teams from 38 different states. The tournament had some of the most talented young people anywhere. We will bring you some of the highlight of the Junior Sparkler.

The Players included The Nashville Night Hawks 14U who had a trio that would make many college coaches take notice. Shortstop Chelsey Gore made back handed plays, threw runners out from deep in the hole and on offense had several stolen bases.

“The tournament gives me a chance to play with my friends,” said Gore. “We get a chance to be together and show what we can do as a team.”

Gores father has a horse farm with some 15 horses and she likes horseback riding during her spare time.

 “The game is fun for me” said 14 year old Syde Soloman. “I really like playing with my friends, we all help each other out.” Soloman plays catcher and third base for the Nighthawks. She bats clean-up and is a true leader- her teammates look up to her for inspiration. She already has plans for the future. “I want to play college softball. I like Florida I’ve seen them on TV I think it would be a cool place to play.”

Nataia Martin is the third member of the fantastic trio. The athletic center fielder excelled on offense and defense. She played center-field like a seasoned pro. She chased down line drives that appeared to be hits. In two games she threw out two runners headed to third base and gunned down two more headed for home.

 “I practiced long tossing  with my 12 year-old sister,” said Martin. “That helped me make accurate throws in a game.”

She has jackrabbit speed – She scored all the way from first base on a single to the outfield. She’s is extremely athletic as a freshman played on the girls varsity basketball team at Bowling Green (KY) High School.

 “I want to play softball and basketball in college. This tournament gives all of us good exposure”.

Celebrity Hairstylist, China Upshaw Gives Summer Hair Tips

Celebrity hair stylist, China Upshaw

Celebrity hair stylist, China Upshaw

Its summer time, it’s hot and sometimes we just don’t know what to do with our hair in order to keep cool. Below are a few summer hair trends that are recommended by celebrity hairstylist China Upshaw.

  • First trend: Shorter hair is better for the summer because it’s cooler. It’s already hot during the summer and having a bunch of hair to deal with is the worst.
  • Second trend: naturally curly bobs for the summer are also great!
  • Third trend: really high buns are in for the summer.
  • Fourth trend: Going to a lighter hair color during the summer is the best time to do it.

About China:

China Upshaw is a celebrity hairstylist from sunny California with over 10 years of experience in the celebrity hair styling industry. She currently has a salon home with the world famous Kimble Hair Studio in West Hollywood, and is one of the stars of WE TVs LA Hair which is currently in its 3rd season and shows every Thursday at 9 p.m..  Some of Upshaw’s clients include Chante Moore, Robin Givens, Kelly Rowland and Necole Bitchie.

To stay up to date on China’s endeavors, follow her on twitter @chinaupshawhair and Instagram @chinaupshaw.

 

Making Dreams Come True Through Fashion

Fashion Show

By Naomi Bonman 

LOS ANGELES, CA- We all have that one big dream that we wish to accomplish. That dream that will change lives. This is what Creative Director of Fashion Speaks, Joshua Washington, envisioned in his dream, and it came to reality on Tuesday, July 8 with the help of the Los Angeles Urban League of Young Professionals and Cricket Wireless. This was the 3rd Annual fashion show that Washington has hosted entitled, “LA-In-A-Day”, held at the Los Angeles Supper Club in Hollywood.

“With the production of this third installment, we remain firm in our commitment to provide a prominent stage for young designers to showcase their talents”, LAULYP President Abby Harris stated.

‘From the Beach, to the streets, to the office suites’ fashion show is all about giving back. Partial proceeds from the show are donated to support the youth empowerment programs of LA-based non-profit, C.L.I.M.B., Inc. Cosmetics of the show were donated by Ashley Reed of Mary Kay and hair creations were by Hair Republic located in Hesperia, California.

The hosts for the evening were fashion blogger and LAULYP member, Sharick LaMay, and actor Leo Brecken-Ridge. The two vibed well together as they introduced top designer brands which included Zalez Studio, Nour Amini Haute Couture, Drobe, J. Loren, Merlin Castell, Diamond Doll Collection, Krammer & Stoudt, Candy Coated Swimwear, and Nikki Kouture. Prior to the fashion show, celebrity and special guests walked down the red carpet for photo and press opportunities.

For more information on how you can become involved with the Los Angeles Urban League of Young Professionals, please visit www.laulyp.org.