Afrovibes Magazine Issue #3

A Worldwide Streaming Platform Bringing the Best Entertainment on Television, Radio and Magazine!

ISSUE #3

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA WORLD RENOWNED PERCUSSIONIST

THE FASTEST CARS IN THE WORLD SUPER SPORTS CARS

MENTAL HEALTH AND ITS IMPORTANCE

BLACK EXCELLENCE IN FASHION GOLFING BEST PRACTICES TIPS TO WIN

TOP VACATION SPOTS (EASILY AFFORDABLE TRAVEL)

COMPLETE GUIDE TO VEGETARIAN EATING

ALL ABOUT WINE RED AND WHITES

ROE VS WADE SUPREME COURT DECISION SHAKES UP AMERICA

AFROVIBES COLD BREW COFFEE NOW AVAILABLE IN MOCHA OR VANILLA! GET YOURS TODAY!!

Visit our websites: afrovibesradio.com | afrovibes.tv

@afrovibes_coffee

2

Partners

FRONTAGE REAL ESTATE GROUP

Kelvin Osaz’s philosophy is simple:

Clients Come First!

My pledge is to be in constant communication with my clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire buying or selling process and giving excellent real estate service to each client.

Kelvin believes that if a client is not left with an amazing experience, he hasn’t done his job. He believes that success is not measured through the achievements or awards that he has earned, but through the satisfaction of his clients. Please contact Kelvin Osaz to buy, sell, or invest in real estate today for residential and commercial!!!

- Kelvin Osaz

(713) 456-2041

(832) 274-9104

www.soldbyfrontage.com

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

Table of Contents

34

The Advantage of Internet Radio Over Traditional FM Radio Station

35

The War In Ukraine: Effects And Possible Outcomes

54

Lahor Music Act, 7Teen Set To Release New EP, Announces Release Date

55

Brazos Hypertension and Kidney Care

57

Welcome to Afrovibes TV

58

Post Pandemic Education

59

Naetos Kitchen

Partners 2

Frontage Real Estate Group

12

Technology-Sure

21

Nwora Law Firm

26

Great Spirits, Wine & Brews

26

Weeds Of Eden

39

Vienna Entertainment

47

Modchic Couture LLC

47

Artist Spotlight

Travels 14

Affordable and Underrated Vacation Spots

Health and Wellness 15

Healthy Living For A Pompous Life

20

Mental Health and Its Importance

44

Do you want to become a Vegetarian or a Vegan?

49

Why Meditation Is Medicine

Spotlight 16

Exclusive Interview With Cindy Blackman Santana

52

Shekpe Knights Entertainment

56

First Nigerian Artist in Houston to make the US Billboard Charts

Technology 18

The Fastest Cars in the World, Super Sports Cars.

50

Are You Making Your Children And Grandchildren Targets For Identity Thieves?

Who We Are

History

4

Magazine Team

24

Empowering Mothers to Be World Changers

5

Contributors

25

It’s Midnight In America

6

About Afrovibes TV and Radio

36

Here We Go Again

7

Advertise on Afrovibes

37

Texas Shooting Massacre at Elementary School Mirrors Rogue American Gun Culture

42

Roe Vs Wade Supreme Court Decision Shakes Up America

51

It’s All About Money

Culture 8

Gardening: building Your Personal Herbal Oasis

10

Starting off summer right: 16 ways to get more done in less time

Business

11

Self Affirmations to build self esteem

30

11

“Silver Lining” A Poem by C. Niambi

Advertise your business/brand/event on Afrovibes TV and Radio

13

Summer 2022: 10 Black Designers to Look Out For

43

Afrovibes Tv & Radio App

22

Hairstyles For The Season!

22

Cautiously Unconscious in Love

Sports

23

Swimwear Ideas For The Summer

32 Easy Golfing Tips For Your Golf Game

27

All About Wine, Reds And Whites

38

American And African Gun Violence: An Ongoing History

40

My Neck, My Back, Mi Pum Pum Sweat Fast!

53

Timothy Studios

Afrovibes TV Show 48

Spotlighting New Tv Shows - Travel & Design; Wine About It; That’s Divine; La Hora Rosa; For The Culture

4

Who We Are

Publisher:

Photographers:

Philip Balonwu

D’Antoine “Trent” Zenon Jennifer Chadgoury Matthew Curran Carl Rogers William Okocha

(Afrovibes TV and Radio Owner/CEO)

Editor-in-Chief: Ysa Abraham

Senior Editor:

Social Media Editors: Tosin Giwa Amanda Cole

Cara “Soleil” White

Associate Editor: Sharon C. Jenkins

Editors:

Mathew Curran Carl Stevenson Khari “KJ Cr8s” Allen

Contributing Writers/ Reporters: Efe Omorogbo Samuel Ogburubi Max Jefferson Matthew Curran Ysabelle Abraham Chris Agboli Dr. Eunetra Simpson John Foster Cara “Soleil” White Victoria George Tim Martins Kaiyen Thach-Le

Sales Director: Hakeem Henson

International Correspondent: Efe Omorogbe Helen Abutu Ted Don-momoh Frank Obih Ifeanyi Madike May Odegbami Osita Echezona

On the Cover

Business Consultants:

Model:

Adams Ahmadu Corey Mason Tim Martins Dr. Eunetra SImpson

Cindy Blackman Santana

Sales Executive: Kaiyen Thah-Le Anthony Abana

Afrovibes TV & Radio Team: Ysa Abraham Chief Operating Officer

Adams Ahmadu VP – Finance

Graphic Artist:

Cara “Soleil” White

Damian Davis Jennifer Chadgoury

D’Antoine “Trent” Zenon

Afrovibes TV and Radio is published

by Afrovibes Entertainment LLC. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher.

Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher.

Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice, but is considered informative.

Creative Director Head of Production

@afrovibesradio @afrovibestelevision afrovibesradio.com | afrovibes.tv info@afrovibesentertainment.com Mail Address: 6776 Southwest Fwy, Suite 205, Houston, TX 77074 Afrovibes TV and Radio station and Magazine, doing business as Afrovibes Entertainment Group LLC., is published quarterly.

Afrovibes TV and Radio Magazine is published by Afrovibes Entertainment Group LLC.

Who We Are

5

MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTIONS Ysabelle “Ysa” Abraham is passionate about empowerment, motivation and encouragement. She is a motivational speaker, life coach and a mental health advocate, with her non-profit The Mental Health Hub. She loves to work with youth especially to equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life. She was born and raised in London, England and now lives in Houston, Texas. Ysa has enjoyed working on the Afrovibes TV and Radio magazines and hopes that the readers are entertained by the rich content!

She is also Head of Business, Global for Afrovibes Entertainment and a TV Host of The Spotlight and Sippin' Substance.

Cara “Soleil Soleil X” White is a recording artist who specializes in creating musical art for listeners to expand their mindsets and implement more love in every moment. As the Creative Director, Soleil delights in visual design, creative marketing, project management and process improvement techniques. It is her mission to partner with community business owners and help cultivate lasting equality, diversity, and inclusion in order to experience constant growth. As the creator and host of The Fashion Corner on Afrovibes TV, it is Soleil's goal to inspire healthy living through the use of fashion, education, and many different art forms. Join us as we shine light on positive habits and lifestyle tips and tricks, and stay tuned in for uplifting music to help you along your journey!

Matthew Curran is a graduate of University of Houston in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in media production. He has experience as a video editor, writer, videographer, and producer. He has created mostly documentaries and promotional video content for nonprofit organizations. He also has experience in creative writing having knowledge of screenplays. While he does nonfiction content, he has a major interest in pop culture, history, mythology, theology, philosophy, and other soft power-based topics. He also has a preference in writing such topics.

Tim Martin a proud native Texan, and Veteran of the US Army, is the owner of Timothy Productions, with his other half, Country Singer, Sheila Ann, as well as Primestock Realty. Tim has been a licensed Real Estate Broker for fourteen years. His primary focus is on the Ranch and Luxury Home market. When he is not selling Real Estate, Tim spends time working on producing content through his production company, Timothy Productions. Tim produced the music video for the song “Sign of the Times”, and was awarded the Outstanding Music Video of 2018, at the Bose Fame Awards in Las Vegas. Tim also produced and directed the 2019 H-TOWN AWARD SHOW, at the Revention Center, downtown Houston, Texas. Timothy Productions is currently in pre-production on a new concept for the Rodeo World, along with Afrovibes TV and The Mental Health Hub. Another show Tim is working on, along with AfroVibes TV, is “Get Behind a Good One”. In this show, Platinum Selling Rapper, ‘Lil Flip’, will explore the pursuit of legalized Cannabis in the State of Texas, and throughout the United States. Tim spent 10 years writing for local, state, and national politicians.

Tim tells us his focus will be on bringing Truth and Joy to the world through his creative endeavors.

Sharon C. Jenkins is the owner of The Master Communicator’s Writing Services (TMCWS). TMCWS provides writing, editing, publishing, marketing support and coaching services to small businesses, nonprofits and authors. TMCWS has provided services to clients nationwide for the last seven years, and is recognized for her fierce love for all things literary. Sharon is also a best-selling and award-winning author, a blogger. She is an Army veteran, has a postgraduate degree from Oral Roberts University, and is a proud grandmother of five adorable grandchildren.

6

Who We Are

AFROVIBES TV & RADIO

AFROVIBES MAGAZINE AFROVIBES COFFEE

ABOUT AFROVIBES TV & RADIO Afrovibes TV and Afrovibes Radio Station is a 24/7 online Radio and TV station, promoting music, culture and businesses of all nationalities and ethnicities. Though we are based in Houston, Texas, our reach is worldwide.

Afrovibes TV was recently launched to bring the latest music videos, movies, and documentaries to the forefront while highlighting entrepreneurs and community leaders, events and even hosting grand openings, weddings, birthdays and events! We are proud to produce Afrovibes Original TV shows that play on our platform (Roku TV, Amazon Fire TV, our app, our website).

We launched Afrovibes TV channel on Roku TV, which is the #1 streaming platform in the US, reaching more than 100 million viewers. We are also on Amazon Fire TV which reaches 40 million viewers. In addition, we have a mobile app, Afrovibes TV and Radio, and is available on Apple and Google PlayStore. You can also watch on our website: www.afrovibes. tv. In addition, We provide VideoOnDemand option for viewers to catch up on previously aired shows anytime. Since 2016, Afrovibes Radio plays popular songs, shows, and interviews, now reaching millions of listeners globally in 180+ countries.

Afrovibes TV and Radio interviews artists, content creators, entrepreneurs, and politicians.

We have received an official Proclamation from the Mayor of Houston Sylvester Turner on behalf of the City of Houston, Texas honoring the work Afrovibes Television and Radio has done in the community on July 16th, 2021 day. The proclamation highlights our support to the global understanding and positive depiction of African and Caribbean communities, along with our promotion of businesses, politicians, community leaders, and brands. We are honored and aim to continue promoting businesses and brands worldwide!

Philip Balonwu is the owner of Afrovibes Entertainment LLC. and Afrovibes Media Group, which includes Afrovibes TV, Radio and now Magazine. His vision is to give a platform where all ethnicities, business owners, creatives, influencers, politicians and individual contributors can speak and be heard on a national scale. His goal is to improve community dialogue, encourage individual and artistic expression, and provide a vehicle for collaborating and solving local and global interests. Afrovibes TV & Radio has recently launched a satellite location in Atlanta, GA and expanding to other top cities in the United States.

As a leader in urban culture and entertainment, Afro vibes TV & Radio decided it was time to showcase our love for the most cultural beverage in the world, that’s right! Coffee!

After countless hours curating the perfect flavor profile we believe will resonate with our community, we are proud to announce the launch of the Afrovibes Cold Brew Coffee! Locally roasted and bottled by a coffee sommelier, our cold brew is made with the highest quality beans on the market and promises to give you the right amount of energy to start your day.

Now available in Mocha or Vanilla! Get yours today!!

@afrovibes_coffee

Who We Are

7

8

Culture

GARDENING: Building Your Personal Herbal Oasis

Whether indoors, outdoors, or a little bit of both, there are many ways to connect with nature. If you are open, nature has the ability to generate a multitude of positive emotions, including calmness, creativity, joy, and even concentration.

If you are taking a walk in the park, or riding through the trails, the world benefits from the vibrancy of the green trees, which also provides oxygen to those passing by. Research shows that people who are more connected with nature are happier in life, making more of their experiences worthwhile.

Culture

9

As a nature-enthusiast, I have always ran to nature as my source of freedom and expansion. Looking beyond my two feet, I actively visualize my wildest dreams and implement the necessary work to make these dreams come true. One way to increase health and energy along this journey of life is to incorporate herbs, leaves, and flowers throughout our environments.

In your personal time, stepping outdoors, or growing herbs in your own home is a great way to detach and release a lot of stress and worry. Simply witnessing nature is instrumental in supporting and improving the wellbeing of each person.

Being connected to nature in any kind of way implements positive feelings both physically and mentally. Take time to get close to nature and improve your emotional attachment to our natural surroundings.

Focus on the trees, leaves, flowers, spices, herbs and so much more!

Build your space to reflect aspects of nature.

Grow your desired gardens, internally and externally, and find joy in the blooming flowers.

- Cara “SOLEIL SOLEIL X” White

10

Culture

Starting off summer right: 16 ways to get more done in less time

Know your goals, and write them down. Be

Driven, have your own goals and set yourself up to give yourself the best opportunity to complete them. Set Goals you know you can achieve, don't put too much stress on yourself. Writing them down not only gives you a way to remember your goals but it will help you be able to check them off when you complete them.

List your work. Having a step by step to do list

improves your chances of you completing what all you need to get done.

Use the newest office technology. Use new

technology to your advantage however it can help you let it help you.

Get enough sleep at night, as simple as it is go to

sleep at good times.

Are you a video game junkie? Take a break from putting your time into video games.

Don't be a complainer. Avoid negativity. Avoid comparing your accomplishments to others. Someone will always be a little more ahead, but that is what keeps the race going and what keeps you from always striving do better.

Stay on top of new developments in your field by reading and studying. You can learn to work more efficiently and manage time better from the leaders and mentors in your business.

Do it now. Don't put things off and do it whenever you Use "Dead Time" well. All the time you have where get the chance to.

Avoid perfectionism. No one is perfect.

Turn off technology avoid technology that distracts you from your goals.

Avoid the crowd gossiping. Gossiping leads to no good. Put your mind to other things and avoid unnecessary drama.

Quit smoking to save time. What you put into your body matters. Don't drink too much and don't smoke.

you don't do anything, put it to use, don't waste time.

You can always be doing something.

Don't spend time on busy work. Don't let work

run your life. Still make time to enjoy life and live. Work will always be there, don't live to work but work to live.

Set up a daily routine and have your time planned.

Wake up with a plan and know what you’re going to do.

Don't waste your energy trying to change what can't be changed. Don't spend too much time looking

at what already happened but focus on what you can fix.

Self Affirmations

Culture

11

to build self esteem

“Silver Lining” A Poem by C. Niambi

1.

I am self-assured.

2.

I am worthy.

3. I love myself.

4.

I know who I am.

5.

I follow my dreams and I reach my goals...

6. I love what I believe.

7.

I am confident.

8. I believe in myself.

9. I motivate myself.

10. I am sure of my abilities.

11. I am positive.

12. I am in control.

13. If I need help, I ask.

14. Every day I grow more confident.

15. I rely on my insight.

16. I am in control.

In this mind Battling warfare kinkin’ roots rock the chair Propel me up w/ planes & no care Where the station is fair w/no details Detangling connections there mending separations The dedication contemplating the situations Situating my solar plexus Returning in the next sense(s).

Billowing clouds surrounding willowing Soundings gone with the howlings Conversing with all of me Profoundly Solaring controlling the out of control Inside of me expounding outwardly lifting Eyes take heed to the care indeed No generation talking but the enemy steady haunting Generating what?

Nothing. ‘cause we stop it at the button upon arrival Know we want our survival & the tenfold w/ acres & mules Bold motion Dive into oceans timely verses keep the hope in When the clouds all seem broken

12

Partners

TECHNOLOGY-SURE

WEB DESIGN & WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES At Technology- Sure, we create innovative, effective websites that capture your brand, improve your conversion rates, and maximize your revenue to help grow your business and achieve your goals.We make your creative ideas a reality!

We use industry-wide experience to produce attractive websites that are matched with your business identity, and we're not afraid to push the envelope. The internet is a goldmine of opportunities for all kinds of businesses worldwide.

Leverage its power to your advantage.

Establish your digital presence today and discover your market potential with Technology-Sure Design Services. In today’s digital world, your website is the first interaction consumers have with your business. Let us connect your company needs with your end-user persona so that you may reach the widest audience possible now.

In-house website designers & website developers Custom functionality & data integrations Easily add, update, & manage your website content Contact Us Now 512-900-6377

www.technologysure.org

techsurecomputers@gmail.com

Culture

13

Summer 2022: 10 Black Designers to Look Out For Black excellence is a visual that we love to see! When Black brands and designers prepare themselves for unique opportunities to make a positive impact in the community, that is a clear sign that greater change is here!

Fashion bloggers have deemed this time as the “re-emergence of fashion.” This is due to the fact that many events have started meeting physically and amping up the volume on the creative scene. These highlighted designers, in no particular order, are going above and beyond to design extravagant pieces that the majority has grown to adore.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Hailing from Sierra Leone, this creative is widely known for her resort themed Kaftans, also known as “The Rich Aunty” vibe.

Mixing contemporary with vintage fashion, her collection is deeply inspired by the glamor of Old Hollywood.

As the founder and creative director of Pyer Moss, this creative is changing the game with the evolution of nostalgic themes and social commentary. Through his unique displays, the fashion energy is being filled with more and more surprises.

Business woman extraordinaire, Rihanna, is skilled in experimenting with different entrepreneurial projects. From cosmetics to lingerie, one evident pattern held is inclusivity.

Inspiring women to live lives without limits, this designer utilizes captivating designs, along with unique textures and bold colors. Illuminating natural curves, these feminine designs encourage a luxurious lifestyle at every moment.

As the creator of luxury fashion brand, Aliette, this designer is responsible for some of the most memorable red carpet moments. Blending classic sensibilities with modern elements, this unique approach provides a fresh perspective with every collaboration.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

This international brand is known for its graceful, artsy, and flowy pieces. With youthful energy, this designer is tenacious and creative with every piece.

Implementing transformative experiences into every piece, this renowned designer sparked interest among fashion icons and risk takers.

With distinctive work, he has cultivated a dynamic private order clientele spanning from Lagos to London.

Initiated as a Nigerian bikini line, this designer broadened her horizons to incorporate a readyto-wear line catering to the average girl next door, as well as A-list celebrities. This creator instills ethnic and natural themes around the world.

Inspiring women to live lives without limits, this designer utilizes captivating designs, along with unique textures and bold colors. Illuminating natural curves, these feminine designs encourage a luxurious lifestyle at every moment.

As the founder of Brother Vellies and 15 Percent Pledge, this creative urges retailers to commit at least 15% of their shelf space to Blackowned businesses.

Her goal is centered around keeping traditional African design practices and techniques alive.

Sai Sanko

Fe Noel

Kerby Jean-Raymond

LaQuan Smith

Savage x Fenty

Andrea Iyamah

Hanifa

Christopher John Rogers

Jason Rembert

Aurora James

14

Travels

Affordable and Underrated Vacation Spots With things nearly back in full swing now that COVID-19 pandemic restrictions are in a gradual decline, we can agree that juggling work, school, extracurricular activities, family obligations and personal time can be difficult. With summer here, vacation vibes are in the air!

Here are a few underrated places you can go that won’t blow your budget when you need a breather!

#1

Fiji and Bora Bora islands that can be costly, visit Belize!

#3

Turks and Caicos can be expensive, so travel to Greece instead!

Belize: Uncrowded Mayan ruins, authentic culture and beautiful waters, Belize is a catch! Belize has healthy, local produce, relaxing beaches and friendly people.

Greece: Beautiful waters and historic art and breathtaking buildings! Home to over 6,000 incredible islands, with an array of wildlife and a unique history of mythology, Greece is a God-send!

Belize is the place to be.

Some facts:

Facts:

1. Greece is literally one of the sunniest places in the world

1. The islands in Belize are called Cayes

2. Greece has 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Temple of Apollo, the Acropolis of Athens and others

2. The Belize Barrier Reef is an amazing marine ecosystem stretching for more than 180 miles off the coast of Belize 3. Belize has the lowest population density in Central America

#2

Instead of going to Argentina or Costa Rica, go to Peru!

Peru: Adventure destination with beaches and biological diversity!

Fun Facts: 1. Known for Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley 2. Peru has one of the world’s deepest canyons 3. It has the world’s highest navigable lake 4. Peru has rainbow mountains!

3. Not surprisingly, Greece has more archaeological museums than any other country in the world 4. 80% of Greece consists of mountains 5. Santorini has different color beaches

#4

Instead of Hawaii or The Bahamas, go to Florida!

Florida, US: Between Orlando's amusement parks, Miami’s vibrant nightlife and Fort Lauderdale’s and Florida Keys beach life, you won’t want to leave!

Fun Facts: ●

Florida has 663 miles of coastline

●

The Sunshine state has the most golf courses of any state in America

●

Disney World, Universal Studios, Bush Garden, Sea World, Aquatic and MGM Studio are all based in Florida

The time to travel is now! But it shouldn’t break the bank.Check out these more affordable places to enjoy your vacation and step away from the day-to-day activities and obligations!

- Written by Ysa Abraham

Health & Wellness

Healthy Living For A Pompous Life Good health starts with lifestyle and nutrition. When we build healthy habits into our life, it becomes easier to follow a plan of healthy living. The more often we choose the healthy alternative, the easier it becomes to continue. Starting off with small changes can make a big difference. A gallon of water every day is the ideal target for you.

Nutrition is important for healthy living. When it comes to nutrition, we as a nation tend to grab onto one nutrition fad as a cureall. When choosing meals lean towards the Mediterranean style, with vegetables, fruit, fish, whole grains and lean meat. Good oils come from nuts, seeds, olive oil and fish. Avoid processed foods that contain chemical additives and artificial sweeteners. Keep your portions small, overeating contributes to early mortality. Being active helps burn more of those calories that are otherwise destined to become fat cells. Therefore, regular daily exercise, no matter what kind, improves all your metabolic functions. Moderate exercise is the key to fitness. Exercise, along with a healthy diet, also helps you control your weight. Remember to never over-exercise being that it wears out the joints and causes pain and loss of use. Develop overall fitness, rather than relying exclusively on one sport and remember to warm up before workouts, exercise regularly, and give your body time to recover from exertion.

Ideally, your meals should provide all the nutrition you need but that isn’t always the case. Hence daily multi-vitamins ensure one gets the minimum required vitamins and minerals. A fish oil capsule or a flax seed oil capsule provides the valuable omega-3 fatty acids you need. Omega-3’s help in reducing cholesterol, improving brain function, and preventing heart disease, are few of its benefits. Folic acid is important for cell function and for preventing birth defects and heart disease. Take care of your skin, our bodies get Vitamin D from sunshine but too much sun exposure is a major factor in skin cancer. Use an SPF 15 (or higher) sunscreen outdoors to block the UVB rays from the sun. No sunscreen is completely waterproof, so reapply it after swimming. Important as it is in a healthy life, mental health doesn’t get a lot of attention in our society. Nutrition is one of the factors in mood and mental health, as is substance abuse. Regular exercise rewards you with a sense of pleasure and calm.

For healthy living, reduce the stress in your life. Build warm relationships with other people. Stay in touch with friends and family.

Find a way to participate in society and stay useful. If you become anxious or depressed, ask for help right away.

15

16

Spotlight

Spotlight on

Cindy Santana

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA

Cindy Blackman Santana is an African-American jazz and rock drummer famous for her jazz albums as well as performing with other musicians like Pharaoh Sanders, Ron Carter, Joss Stone, Lenny Kravitz, and many more musicians. She is educated in the Hartt School of Music in Hartford, Connecticut and the Berklee College of Music, in Boston Massachusetts. Berklee allowed her to expand her musical horizons by exposing her to multiple styles, such as jazz or African beats. Cindy recalls a lot of other mentors from places like Berklee that served as inspiration for her journey as a female percussionist like Lenny Nelson.

Spotlight

Cindy Blackman Santana

17

Carlos Santana

Her first compositions are included in albums such as Verses by Wallace Rooney and her own album Arcane, in which she was bandleader. After her time performing with Lenny Kravitz, she would focus on creating more of her own music from 2005 to recent times. She would later marry Carlos Santana as well as adopt the Baha’i faith as her new religion.

Her recent interview with Afrovibes TV Host, Ysa Abraham, starts with Cindy describing the account of her birth according to her mother as someone who was already drumming meaning she was destined to be a percussionist. Her interest in drums went far back as being three years old. She also had desires of becoming a lawyer due to her strong opinions against injustice as well having interest in being a neurosurgeon, until she realized that could keep her from drumming full time.

In the second half of the interview, Cindy Santana recalls her time with Lenny Kravitz, who she knew through her ex-boyfriend’s brother, who is a saxophonist. She first communicated with him on the phone. After hearing her play drums on the phone, Kravitz offered Cindy Santana to fly over to Los Angeles right away. There were many other drummers that auditioned as well, but Cindy was the one chosen. Cindy Santana mentioned how she had to understand the kind of music language that Kravitz was conveying. Breaks between tours with Lenny Kravitz allowed Cindy Santana to record her own music allowing to continue her own individual career. this day to create more music to recent times including connecting with other artists like fellow drummer and producer, Narada Michael Walden. Cindy Santana continues to be one of the most accomplished drummers of modern times and inspiration for many, especially women musicians.

Cindy Santana is quoted in saying: “if you let somebody stop you because of their opinions, then the only thing you're doing is hurting yourself. I don't want to give somebody that power over me.”

Technology

The Fastest Cars in the World, Super Sports Cars.

Fast, Powerful, and Exciting...

18

The fastest cars in the world are the super sports cars, fast, powerful, and exciting. These super sports cars, the exotic cars of the automotive world, are high performance cars, often called ultra sports cars or super cars. They come from famous companies like Ferrari, AC Cobra, Lotus, McLaren, Porsche, Maseratti, Lamborghini, Jaguar, BMW, Bugatti, Shelby and Koenigsegg.

Porsche Carrera GT Fastest Cars in the World Super sports cars are remarkable for style, performance and exclusivity. The exotic sports cars are engineered to be the fastest cars in the world for drivers with a need for speed, and come with mind-blowing styling and big price tags. In the crowded field of family sedans and SUVs, the super sports cars can really stop traffic.

A super sports car is not just about owning a fast car. Part of the appeal of a sports car is related to the demand for luxury goods, similar to the appreciation of fine Swiss watches, vintage French wine and designer clothes.

The super sports cars are distinctive cars that are thrilling to drive. They are the pinnacle of engineering and design excellence. At the wheel of a super sports car, the driver gets the ultimate driving experience.

The early companies that built super sports cars were started and run by auto enthusiasts who liked to race. Their slogan was "Race on Sunday, sell on Monday," because competition and speed sold these cars. Although the cars were outstanding, the companies often ran short of working capital. Companies and brands changed ownership frequently. Those that survive in the business today are few compared to the hundreds of companies that failed.

When Is It a Sports Car?

Maserati Birdcage Fastest Cars in the World Sports cars are recognized by their precise handling, quick acceleration, fast braking and design aesthetics.

Most automotive manufacturers offer something they market as a sports car, or a sports compact, a sports sedan, a muscle car, a hot hatch. But these models don't perform like true sports cars.

WHEN IS A SPORTS CAR AN EXOTIC OR SUPER SPORTS CAR? Super sports cars, also called exotic sports cars, are sports cars produced in small quantities of no more than 8,000 cars a year. If the production of a model exceeds this limit, the mass-produced car is simply called a sports car. Examples of mass-produced sports cars are BMW M3 and M5 models.

PERFORMANCE FEATURES OF A SUPER SPORTS CAR

Technology

19

The typical super sports car is built for speed and handling, rather than passenger comfort and convenience. It starts with a powerful engine. It often has two doors and two seats, but some have three seats and some, called 2+2, have two additional small rear seats. It may win awards on the racetrack, like the Porsche, Ferrari and Lotus, or it may be strictly for the road, like the Lamborghini. Some models of super sports cars are not even street-legal in the United States.

The super sports cars may come with luxury interiors or may be stripped down. There are super sports cars with automatic transmission. Super sports cars are even available with four-wheel drive, like the Porsche, Lamborghini and Bugatti Veyron. A few super sports cars come with rear wheel drive and rear engine, but they are the exception. Many cars in this elite class are still hand-crafted and custom made. All have high standards of excellence.

The Fastest Cars in the World for Street Driving Bugatti Veyron Fastest Cars in the World The most expensive super street car is the Bugatti Veyron 16.4.

Bugatti is a French company that is a subsidiary of Volkswagen.

The Veyron sells for $1,192,057. For your money you get a car that accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds. It reaches a top speed of 253.81 mph.

Ferrari Enzo Fastest Cars in the World The second most expensive of the super sports cars for street driving is the Ferrari Enzo, also known as the Enzo or F60, priced at $1,000,000.

The Enzo was introduced in 2002 and named after the company founder.

The Enzo accelerates to 60 mph in 3.14 seconds and reaches a top speed of 221 mph. It is a 12-cylinder car based on Formula 1 racing technology, with a semi-automatic, no-clutch, sequential-shift transmission. The body is made of carbon ceramic and carbon fiber. Ferrari is an Italian sports car manufacturer, founded by racing enthusiast Enzo Ferrari in 1928. You have probably seen its famous logo with a prancing horse. The company is now owned by Fiat. Ferrari makes a maximum of 14 cars each day.

Pagani Zonda Fastest Cars in the World The third most expensive and eighth fastest car in the world is the Pagani Zonda, from the Italian car manufacturer Pagani. The Zonda is a mid-engine sports car made of carbon fiber and named after an air current above Argentina. Pagani makes about 10 of this model each year. Perhaps you have seen the Zonda featured as a virtual super sports car in the video game series Gran Turismo. The Zonda C12 F is priced at $741,000, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 215 mph.

OTHER FAST CARS IN THIS ESOTERIC PRICE RANGE, SUPER SPORTS CARS FOR STREET DRIVING, ARE ● ● ● ● ● ●

the SSC Ultimate Aero at $654,400 made in the United States by Shelby SuperCars. In 2007 Guinness World Records named the SSC Ultimate Aero as the fastest production car in the world. the leBlanc Mirabeau, from the Swiss manufacturer, at $645,084 the Koenigsegg CCX from Sweden priced at $600,910 the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo at $555,000. Saleen, a United States company, was liquidated in 2008. Its brand and other assets were sold at auction. the Porsche Carrera GT, from the Germany company, at $484,000 and the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren at $457,250. The German company Mercedes-Benz is owned by Daimler.

20

Health & Wellness

Mental Health

and Its Importance

Mental Health is something that doesn't get enough attention although it is essential in every stage of living from childhood to adulthood. Mental health takes a toll on one's emotions and well being. It affects how one thinks, feels and acts, how well one handles stress, how one relates to others and the choices one makes and is linked to one's physical health. Mental health is an experience most do not step up and speak freely about but there are early warning signs (cry for help) that can be a means of access to getting better and towards complete recovery.

Early Warning Signs: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Little to no eating or sleeping Avoiding and pulling away from people and activities Low energy and unexplained aches Drinking, smoking, or using drugs more than usual Feeling hopeless or numb to many things Feeling of confusion, anger, forgetfulness or worry, Excessive mood swings, fighting and yelling with family members and friends Thinking of self harm or harming others

Mental health is worth making time for, being that it is influenced by many factors. Mental health is part of being human and is changeable. Here are ways in which one can boost their mental health

Ways To Increase Mental Health: 1. Staying active: Although it is ideal to give the brian a rest, too much rest is a way in which negative thoughts begin to creep in. Staying active is good for the brain just as it is important for the body. Activities such as exercising, meditation, yoga, writing, reading, dancing, or even learning or teaching a new skill etc.

2. Talk to someone: During a tough time like this, talking to someone you trust and who cares or possibly a therapist is a good being that holds too much in and it is a most effective way to calm your nervous system and relieve stress.

3. Eat healthy and do not cling to sleep: Most times when people are going through tough times two things one adapts to is overeating and sleeping problems away which might seem like a great outcome but is actually affecting one more.

4. Find purpose and meaning: Engage in something that you love and enjoy, that makes you feel useful, spend quality time with people who matter to you and vice versa.

5. Drink and Smoke Sensible and if not able to stay away from it being that it is not a logical way to manage difficult feelings.

6. Never be afraid to seek professional help

- Written by Ysa Abraham

Partners

NWORA LAW FIRM Nwora Law Firm provides is a full-service law firm available to handle diverse client needs. We provide legal representation to our Clients in immigration related matters, family law issues, personal injury, criminal law, guardianship and probate. We are a comprehensive Law Firm with almost three decades of experience serving individuals, businesses, and families throughout Texas.

Representing clients is about understanding the client as an individual and tailoring the representation to achieve the client’s goals. It is about listening to the client, knowing the law, and applying the strategy best suited to reach that client’s goals. We focus on the personal needs of our clients and strive to build long-term relationships that will have an overall positive effect on the lives we help change.

Many families and individuals alike place a great amount of trust in our law firm and in our abilities to help them achieve their goals. Contact Nwora Law Firm to set up an initial consultation to discuss your legal concerns.

Our legal services are affordable and we offer flexible payment terms to assist you in paying off your legal fees.

WE REPRESENT OUR CLIENTS IN THE FOLLOWING: Immigration:

-

Criminal Law:

Immigrant Visas Employment Based Visas Family Based Visas Temporary/Student/Work/Treaty/Investor Visas H-1B Visas Permanent Resident/Re-entry Permits/ Green Card Renewals Citizenship Deportation/Removal Defense Other types of Visas

Family Legal Services

-

Divorce Child Custody/Child Support Modification / Enforcements Annulment Adoptions Paternity

Nwora Law Firm 8323 Southwest Freeway Ste 500 Houston TX 77074

-

Misdemeanors Felonies Juvenile Law

Guardianship: -

Minor / Adult Person / Estate Temporary / Permanent

Personal Injury: -

Auto / Truck / Bicyclist / Pedestrian accident Grocery and Retail Store accidents Slip and Falls Defective sidewalks

Probate: -

Wills Small Estate Affidavit Heirship

713-270-7121

21

22

Culture

Hairstyles

For The Season!

When it comes to hairstyles there are multiple options that at times it may become overwhelming. Here are a couple trendy hairstyles in 2022 that you must put into consideration.

-

Braids: When it comes to braids you can never go wrong with,braids come in handy for different occasions e.g. vacation, school,dates, parties and many more occasions. You can never go wrong with Braids be it box braids, knotless braids, lemonade braids, bohemian braids etc.

-

Locs: Locs with both natural hair or artificial hair have been heavily used for protective styling, growing hair quicker and may last longer than braids depending on maintenance and if one begins loc journey with natural hair. Locs can also be used for different occasions: vacation, school, work, dates etc. Butterfly locs, soft locs, passion twist, sisterlocks, freeform locs etc

-

Wigs and Sewins: Wigs and Sewins are most go to’s especially during celebrations like prom, graduation etc. There are different sew-in methods such as traditional sew in, flip over sew in, versatile sew in, microlinks. The kind of wigs include: lacefronts, closures, synthetic wigs

-

Natural hairstyles and cuts: One can never go wrong with one's natural hair although most find it hard to maintain and use protective styles many enjoy styling natural hair. Natural hairstyles and cuts include: pixie cut, pineapple a.ka.

Fineapple,highlights, perm rods, flexi rods, space puffs, bob cut, afro, silk press, twist out and many more. You can also never go wrong with natural hair especially during occasions where swimming is involved, stay at home, last minute events etc.

Having the right hairstyle boosts one's confidence, this season, don't be afraid to try different hairstyles from the list given above.

Cautiously Unconscious in Love A Poem by KJ Cre8s Though he'll never know how I feel, he has to understand that there is this pressure, a tension, a burning pulse between us. He says I make him nervous. The feeling is mutual. the way I see it, he is mine and I am his but we can't admit it we won't admit . I notice the way he sits up when I enter the room and looks away when I catch him glancing towards me. I feel his heartbeat change when he embraces me. I can't overlook the way his tone of voice changes when it's just me and him. Behind closed doors he can't hide his emotions and I can't leave mine outside. He brought me here. I get to see the side that the rest of our friends don't. We talk at night.

He is my second sanctuary. He shares himself with me. I learn him. I know his lingo, his walk, his scent, know how he likes the room to feel before he sleeps... I trace his features with my fingertips and feel his skin against mine. warm. goosebumps. tattoos. Scars.

Though he'll never know how I feel he has to understand why. why I am too afraid to let him in. why I'm glad he doesn't show emotion so I don't have to show mine. why I am terrified to tell him anything. any real thing. He shook me. his thoughts, his creativity, his background. He keeps me up at night. I want to explore his mind. I want to know him and know me and grow with him. He makes me want to be a different girl. his aura, his glow. He puts this atmospheric pressure on me. I feel him.

He makes me nervous.

And though he'll never know how I feel he has to understand that I don't even know what I feel.

Who am I to throw adjectives of expression up in the air? How can I explain to him what this is? I refuse to be on the wrong side of an unrequited lo*deep sigh* let me stop.

Though he'll never know how I feel he has to understand that I cannot put myself in that spot again.

I cannot let myself fall head first into something or someone I am unsure about. I cannot be one of his options. I have to be his first choice. I have to allow myself time to cope with my feelings and teach myself how to be good to him and for him. I am working on myself and soon I will be ready.

Though right now I can't tell him how I feel, one day he will.

Culture

Swim wear Ideas

For The Summer

Looking for a bikini for the season or unable to find the right one??...

We got you!.. Perfect for all shapes and sizes. Don't be afraid to try different colors this summer and to show off those stretch marks,cellulite, or whatever imperfections we all have.

1.

One Piece Swimsuit: The classic one piece never fails and can never go out of style. Not requiring multiple pieces easy to put, fit for any body shape and size, variety style such as: one shoulder, drop shoulder, open backs, slight triangle cutout and many other styles.

2. Two Piece Swimsuit: The two piece swimwear offers a bit more

versatility in fashion being that it is easier to mix and match pieces together if wished to. They come in crop tops, tankinis, bralettes and many more.

3. Three Piece Swimsuit: The three piece bikini would be a great go

if one wants an accessory included in the swimwear such as pants, shorts, shirts oversized or fitted even hats that are made out of the same fabric as the swimwear.

When it comes choosing the perfect swimwear remember to always choose something you’d be comfortable and with color that will make your skin pop!

23

24

History

Empowering Mothers to Be World Changers

by Sharon C. Jenkins

Over the years, the nurturers of the earth have been called mother, mom, mommy, mama, mum, mumsy and even momzilla on good days. We live in a chaotic world that is constantly changing the definition of what that word means, but its purpose could and should never change. The verb mother is defined as bringing up a child with care and affection or to actually give birth to a child. Children need nurturing, care, affection, and love. They are precious gifts that often come at unexpected times surrounded by unexplainable circumstances, but they are breathing, human beings that require tender loving care from conception through college.

The innocence of a child is a constant reminder of the goodness that exists in humanity. It’s so precious that it should be allowed to exist as long as possible.

In Uvalde, Texas, the lives of nineteen elementary children were stolen and the innocence of hundreds of others shattered. Their mother’s wombs are left empty from the memory of their existence and their hearts totally shattered because they will never realize the dreams held for them. Yes, their fathers are also grieving and my heart grieves with them, but this editorial is a call to action for mothers. A mother who was attempting to go into the school building was held back by police and placed in handcuffs. Once she was free, she jumped a fence and went into the school and collected her children. They are alive today as a result of her determination.

The darkness in the world is bent on the purposeful annihilation of the innocence of children for greed, money, and power. Stealing that innocence is profitable for human and sex traffickers. Politicians use it as chess pieces in their political campaigns for votes. Individuals use children as pawns in dysfunctional relationships because they forget how precious that innocence is and what it means to a humanity where cruelty reigns and selfishness is the norm.

But all is not lost! Historically, women have risen up during chaos, motivated by their unconditional love for children. From the days of Moses to the Uvalde massacre, women have said that enough is enough and used the love they possess for them as a call to action. If there was ever a time to reclaim the right for children all over the world to be restored, now is the time.

There’s nothing more formidable than a mother on the rampage for the safety and security of her child. You may say, what can I do? The giants (greed, money, and power) in the land are bigger than I am? Well, it starts within the four walls of your home. Master loving and protecting your child, and then share it with the next young mother on your block through mentorship.

That’s how a neighborhood becomes empowered. That’s how a movement is started and that’s how a world is changed, one home at a time.

Other influential mothers are: ●

Ann Jarvis was a social activist and pioneer in the public health movement during the 1800’s.

●

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper fought for the rights of women and African Americans in the 1800’s.

●

Sojourner Truth was an abolitionist and women’s rights activist in the 1800’s.

●

Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel prize. She was a physicist in the 1900’s.

●

Irena Sendler smuggled over 2,500 Jewish children out of Warsaw during World War II.

●

Audrey Hepburn was an actress and philanthropist who was an Ambassador for UNICEF.

●

Princess Diana was an activist for children’s health during her brief life and her sons continue that philanthropic legacy today.

●

Michelle Obama fought against childhood obesity while being FLOTUS and became a staunch advocate for military families.

●

Angelina Jolie, an actress, is committed to refugee humanitarian work and acts as a Goodwill Ambassador to over 30 countries.

Empowering Mothers to Be World Changers Cont.

Mothers Who Have Had Influence

Being social activists is in the bloodline of today’s mothers. When we work to make the world a better place as mothers, our intrinsic motivation is often our own children. Leaving the world a better place for them should be our aim.

Meghan Markle was seen leaving flowers at the site of the Uvalde massacre. There was no fanfare, just a simple gesture of love and support for those who lost their lives and their loved ones. Women who are influencers in our culture have the power to make a statement about the importance of children being allowed to be children as long as they can, and they are. I encourage you to pick up this cause and use your influence to combat the ills of our society.

There have been numerous others that have come before you.

Michelle Obama was famous for calling herself, “momin-chief,” while President Obama was in office. She was known to say, “My daughters are still the heart and the center of my world.” Words well-spoken by a mother called to action! Mother, will you accept the call? The lives of our children depend upon it.

History

25

IT’S MIDNIGHT IN AMERICA Bobby E. Mills, PhD The question for every Godfearing American is what time is it for you? What are you willing to do about the democratic state of socio-political conditions in America? Midnight is the darkness time period in a 24-hour time period. Too many Americans are making spiritually dark decisions in daylight. When (73+) million Americans voted for a chronic habitual lair for President, they are on the other side of midnight worshipping the devil, and the great grandchildren of slaves saved America from the abyss of self-annihilation. Moreover, let’s not think about the fate of Ukraine as a democratic nation with a Putin sympathizer as President of the USA would be.

The Trump Administration appointed (3) justices to the Supreme Court giving the court a super ultra-privileged oriented conservative majority that is hell bent on stripping women and minorities of their Human and Civil Rights. This will take America to the other side of midnight.

January 6th, 2021 was a bold spiritually dark attempt to institute autocracy during the Trump Administration, which in turn, placed America on the other side of midnight. Thus, we have order without law and equal justice, because when police officers can execute unarmed Black men for misdemeanors, it is midnight in America. When you have a major political party that will not secure and defend the Civil Rights of every American citizen to cast his/her vote you are on the other side of midnight. When intelligent individuals cannot discuss 1619, which is America’s original sin, we are doomed to repeat the sins of the past. Godfearing Americans, your vote can spiritually bring America out of the darkness of the Prince of Darkness (devil). There is no life in darkness, because what life do we have if we do not have life in the light of God. America, what do you do when you are on the other side of midnight? The spiritual answer is that individuals must live in the light of God’s truth, because “If we say that we have fellowship with him, and we walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 john 1: 6-7). Praise be to God. Prayerfully, the Biden Administration brought America out of the spiritual darkness of the worst International Pandemic in over one hundred years which has killed over (1) million Americans. The Biden Administration has done the following: saved tens of millions of American families and businesses from financial ruin, passed a (1.2 billion dollar) infrastructure bill to rebuild America’s physical infrastructure, canceled over (9.5) billion dollars of student loan debt, rebuilt America’s credibility and moral integrity with NATO and the European Union, created conditions for a thriving economy that has America with its lowest unemployment rate in decades, which in turn, makes inflation controllable.

All these things were done in the daylight of democracy, not autocracy, and for all Americans regardless of socio economic statuses. Question: do we desire “Make America Great Again/Make America White Again” based upon White Privilege for the few (something for nothing) or do we desire “Build Back Better” for all Americans? In the 2022 midterm election the choice is between the midnight of the past or the spiritual light of democracy for all Americans in the future. Amen.

26

Partners

GREAT SPIRITS, WINE & BREWS 6 ARMS STRONG

Importation & Distribution of fine Italian wines Tasting Room of Italian Fine Wines

6 Arms Strong is a U.S. Company funded by entrepreneurs to import/export partners in the US. We are a group of professionals with vast experience in the global beverage market with the desire & focus to deliver a top quality product backed by top sales & marketing strategies and a reliable sales & marketing organization that will take care of our customers and consumers.

We help and assist our US Military Veterans in every possible way we can everyday. We will be providing housing, employment, food, mental & physical assistance through a multitude of programs. We are currently looking at a large piece of property(s), approximately 5,000 acres unto 10,000 acres. On this property we will be building our future. This is where we will be building housing, where we will building one of the largest if not the largest sports facilities in Texas, where we will build hotels & restaurants, where we will build a 10 acres outdoor music venue, where we will build a professional fishing lake, where we will build a Wild Game Exotic Hunting Ranch, where we will build a US VETERANS Senior/ Retirement Community and where we will house and create approximately 50 business for our US Military service men & women to work with.

Tim Giraud

Chairman/CEO/President of 6 Arms Strong

Every Drink Sold HELPS A VETERAN Every Bottle Sold HELPS A VETERAN Every Case Sold HELPS A VETERAN

HELP US HELP OUR VETERANS

WEEDS OF EDEN Weeds of Eden is a brand new concept here in the Houston & Texas market!

Weeds of Eden is 100% Veteran Employed. This is the greatest concept to come to Houston EVER!

Enjoy a glass of wine or glass of beer. Grab a fresh handmade sandwich or charcuterie board. You can even grab some of the fresh produce from the farmer’s market taker it to the deli and they will make you a fresh made tossed salad.

We are a Beergarden, a Winegarden, a Fresh Italian Deli, a Farmers Market & a Garden Nursery.

This is a place that you have to come to!

This is a place that you must be at!

This is a place of destination of any and all to come and enjoy.

Come and enjoy and support your US Military Veterans!

You can come by yourself, come with a friend or friends or just bring the whole group.

Promotion/discounts: 5% discount on 6 bottles or more 10% for 12 bottles or more An additional 5% Discount for all 1st responders (which are police, fire fighters, EMS, nurses & doctors), active military, service members and veterans.

(713) 962-8849

info@6armsstrong.com

www.6armsstrong.com

Culture

27

ALL ABOUT WINE, REDS AND WHITES Welcome to the Wine Guide, with information all about wine. Galileo said that wine is sunlight, held together by water. Wine is the alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes, enjoyed around the world. Sharing a glass of wine with friends is one of the most satisfying of all drinking rituals. The study of wine and the thoughtful enjoyment of wine is a rewarding hobby. Here is the Wine Guide all about wine, with answers to questions people ask about wine.

A Quick History of Wine

A Wine Expert Is Called an Oenologist

Wine is a historical beverage, well known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. The Greek god Dionysus and the Roman god Bacchus were the gods of wine. Wine is mentioned in the Bible and is used in religious services by Jewish and many Christian religions. Did you know that the use of wine is forbidden by Islam? Wine was probably discovered by accident when grapes fermented naturally on the vine or in storage.

Oenology is the science of wine making. An expert in the area of wine making and oenology is called an oenologist, someone who is passionate about wine as a hobby or a career. Their passion for wine goes beyond that of a typical wine enthusiast.

Wine Can Be Made From Many Crops The overwhelming preference throughout history and around the world is for grape wine. But wine can also be made from other vegetables and fruit, like Aunt Milly's elderberry wine, or Grandma's dandelion wine. Although other fruits such as apples and berries can also be fermented, their wine is known as fruit wine or country wine. Barley wine and rice wine, also called sake, are more like beer than wine because of the starches in barley and rice. In many countries and many languages, the word "wine" refers by law to the wine of the grape.

"During one of my treks through Afghanistan, we lost our corkscrew. We were compelled to live on food and water for several days."

- Cuthbert J. Twillie (W.C. Fields) in My Little Chickadee, 1940

How Much Does Wine Cost?

Like many things, the price of a wine is indicative of its quality and scarcity.

Moderately priced wines are available that most people will enjoy. If you are a connoisseur of fine wines, you will appreciate the subtle flavor distinctions of highend wines. A good wine shop can recommend wines for your taste and budget.

How to Describe a Wine We use these five basic characteristics to describe a wine: Where were the grapes grown? What variety of grape was used? What is its vintage, that is, the year of the harvest? Is the wine a varietal or a blend? A varietal wine is made almost entirely from one variety of grape, rather than blended from several grapes. Next we ask: Is it a red wine or a white wine? The color of the wine does not come from the color of the grapes. Red wine gets its red color because red grape skins are mixed with the juice during fermentation. No grape skins are added to white wine. Now with these properties, you know how to describe a wine.

What Kinds of Grapes are Used for Wine You won't find wine grapes sold in the supermarket. The grapes that make the best wine taste tart and bitter on the vine. The most popular varieties of wine grapes give their name to the famous wines people enjoy. Famous red wine grapes are the varieties of grapes called Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah (also known as Shiraz), Zinfandel and Gamay.

28

Culture

The best known of the white wine grapes are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Chenin Blanc. These are the dominant varieties of grapes, which make the best wines in the world. They are traditionally called noble grapes. You've probably never heard of the Trebbiano grape, because it has many other names, but it is the most widely planted grape in the world.

• Chardonnay is a reliable and resilient grape that grows in climates as different as Canada, England, Texas and Portugal, but it is difficult to grow. It produces wine with a distinct spicy, aromatic taste to complement highly flavored foods.

• Muscat, both the black and the white grapes, are used to make a variety of wines. Muscat is possibly the original domesticated grape variety from which all others have descended. Muscat has a distinct musky taste.

• Pinot Noir is a white grape used in making red wine. It is the most important grape for German wines. The wine can be drunk young but improves with age. Pinot Noir is also blended to make champagne and other sparkling wines.

• Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape with a grassy flavor reminiscent of green fruits, especially gooseberries. It is the only grape used to make Sancerre and PouillyFume. Along with Semillon, it is used to make Graves and Sauternes.

• Cabernet Sauvignon is a red grape with a strong character and the taste of black currants. One of the most widely planted grape varieties, it is blended to make red Bordeaux and much California red wine. It must be aged before it can be drunk.

• Cabernet Franc is a red grape grown mostly in France, similar to but lighter than the Cabernet Sauvignon. It is blended to make red Bordeaux.

• Gamay is the popular red grape used to make the light, fragrant red wine Beaujolais. It is also used in wines for Switzerland.

How Is Wine Made?

Many people daydream of starting their own vineyard and bottling their own wine.

A lot of knowledge, hard work and good luck are involved in bringing a bottle of wine to market. The vintner chooses a variety of grape plants based on how well the grape grows in the area. The success of a vineyard also depends on the climate, the rainfall, fertilizers and the soil itself to grow the perfect grapes. That's why the best wines come from certain famous regions of the world. The grape gives the wine its flavor. Each variety of grape brings a unique flavor to the wine. Grapes naturally ferment without the addition of sugars, acids, enzymes or other nutrients.

In olden times, grapes were picked by hand and pressed by walking barefoot on them. Today, at the peak of flavor, grapes are harvested by machine, removed from the stems and pressed mechanically to extract the juices. After yeast is added to the grape juice, it is allowed to ferment in barrels made of either wood or stainless steel. The yeast feeds on the grape sugars and produces the alcohol in the wine.

Fermentation continues until all the grape sugar has vanished. The flavor of the wine depends on the type of yeast, the aging period, the barrels used, and how much yeast is removed from the finished wine. Red wines are aged longer than white wines. When the wine is ready to drink, it is drained from the barrel and bottled.

What Is the Alcoholic Content of Wine?

• Merlot is a plump and plummy black grape. Merlot is the basis of the red wines Pomerol and St.-Emilion. It can also be used in Bordeaux.

The alcoholic content of red, white and sparkling wines is about 10%-14%.

• Pinot Noir is a spectacular red grape that yields red burgundy wine. Although its taste varies considerably and unpredictably, it is fruity, light in body, and low in tannins.

Wine aficionados follow rituals when serving wine to guests. The first rule of serving wine is that red and white wines usually have different glasses. The glass for red wine is wider to allow the wine to breath, or aerate, while the flavors and aromas are released. Before serving a bottle of red wine, it is recommended to decant it first.

Decanting separates the lees or dregs, the dead yeast cells, from the wine. White wines are different and usually don’t require decanting.

• Syrah is a red grape with a strong,full-bodied, smoky taste.

It is used to make the Rhone wines. In Australia and South Africa it is know as Shiraz.Cote Rotie and Hermitage. It is also blended with other grapes because of its strong, smoky taste.

• Tempranillo is the premier red grape of Spain. It is used to make Riuja and other Spanish reds.

• Zinfandel is a European red grape that is widely grown in California. With its adaptable and fruity taste, it is used to make reds and pale roses. Modern DNA techniques have identified the Zinfandel grape to be the same as the Primitivo grape of Italy.

Making good wine is a skill; making fine wine is an art.

- Robert Mondavi

Wine Glasses and Decanters

Which Wine Goes with Which Food? Beef, Chicken and Fish Which wine goes with which food? Popular belief has it that white wines complement fish, cheese and chicken, while red wines are best served with beef and pork. White wines accompany the first courses in a meal, red wines the main or later courses. Champagne and sweet white wines can be served with dessert.

The Larousse Encyclopedia of Wine says, "White wine before red, young before old, light before heavy, dry before sweet, minor before fine or rare." These days when we entertain at home, where the host is also the cook, the butler and the scullery maid, we are more relaxed about wine rules, and convenience is also our guide.

How Is Champagne Made?

Champagne is a sparkling wine often used at celebrations and festivities. After it is bottled, it goes through a second fermentation which creates carbonation and the

Culture

characteristic sparkly bubbles. By French law, champagne must be produced within the Champagne region of France. To make champagne, Chardonnay is blended with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. When Chardonnay grapes are used exclusively, champagne is called blancs de blancs.

What Is Sherry Wine?

Sherry is a fortified wine, with brandy added after fermentation is complete.

Sherry is a protected label to designate the wine made from white grapes grown near the town of Jerez, Spain. Not as popular as it used to be, sherry makes a fine drink before dinner and is thought to complement smoking.

Because the fortification takes place after fermentation, most sherries are initially dry, any sweetness being added later.

What Is Port Wine?

Port wine is fortified wine from Portugal. It is typically sweet and often served as a dessert wine. During fermentation, Port is fortified with brandy to boost the alcohol content. Port is sweet because not all the grape sugar is turned into alcohol.

What Is Ice Wine?

Ice Wine is made from grapes that are frozen on the vine, then crushed in their frozen state. Many varieties of grapes, including Riesling and Gewurztraminer, are used for ice wine. Ice wine is ideal for a dessert wine, with its syrupy, fruity sweetness balanced by high acidity and a clean crisp taste. The label will say "Ice Wine" or in German "Eiswein."

What Is Sauterne Wine?

Sauterne is a French dessert wine from the Sauternais region of France, but the name is deliberately mispelled. Sauterne can be white or pink, dry or sweet. Sauterne is made from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes that have been affected by a fungus Botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot. The fungus causes the grapes to become like raisins, which makes a distinctively flavored wine with concentrated sweetness.

What Is a Wine Tasting?

Wine tasting is the way to experience a wine's quality and identity through the aroma and taste. The taste of a good wine is a balance of tannins, acidity, alcohol and fruit. Tannins are organic compounds in grapes that bring the woody taste to a wine. If you have ever tasted tea leaves or bit into a grape seed, that taste is tannin. Acidity, or acetification, contributes a lively, crisp, refreshing quality to a wine. When acidity is too high, a wine can become tart, biting, and sharp on the palate. When it lacks acidity, a wine tastes dull, flabby and flat.

29

The aroma of a fine wine is more complex than you would think. The aroma wheel lists a universal vocabulary of 12 groups and 87 terms to describe the aroma of wine. The 12 main groups on the aroma wheel are Fruity, Herbaceous or Vegetative, Nutty, Caramel, Woody, Earthy, Chemical, Pungent, Oxidized, Microbiological, Floral and Spicy. Some of the 87 specific descriptors are kerosene, tar, moldy, mushroom, oak, butterscotch, tobacco, artichoke, mint, artificial fruit, prune, raspberry, lemon, mousy and horsey.

Wine Corks, Caps and Boxes Recently, there have been changes in packaging wine. Traditionally, most wines are sold in glass bottles and sealed with a cork. The wine bottle is opened with a corkscrew, a metal spiral attached to a wooden handle, rather like a drill bit. After twisting the corkscrew into the cork, strength is required to slowly extract the cork. Today many wine bottles come with an easy-touse metal twist cap, or else synthetic plastic "corks." It's also possible to purchase "box wine", wine in a plastic bag inside cardboard box with a tap on the side to dispense the wine. However, the better wines are still bottled, rather than boxed. Wine in a box actually stays fresh longer, while bottled wine will oxidize after opening and is drinkable for only a few days.

Guide to the Sizes of Wine Bottles The wine bottle is always a standard size of .75 litres. A fillette of wine is a half-bottle or .375 litres. Champagne, Bordeaux and Port are sold in larger sizes, each size being a multiple of the "bottle" and having a traditional name. Bordeaux comes as fillette(a half-bottle of .375 litres), a bottle, Magnum (equivalent to 2 bottles or 1.5 litres), Double Magnum (equivalent to 4 bottles or 3.0 litres), Jeroboam (equivalent to 6 bottles) and Imperial (equivalent to 8 bottles). Champagne also comes in various sizes, as a split (1/4 bottle or .188 litres), a half bottle, a Magnum (equivalent to 2 bottles or 1.5 litres), a Jeroboam (equivalent to 4 bottles which is 3 litres), a Rehoboam (equivalent to 6 bottles which is 4.5 litres), Methuselah (equivalent to 8 bottles which is 6 litres) and Salmanazar (equivalent to 12 bottles which is 9 litres)

How Should You Store Wine?

Most wines, both red and white, should be stored at fifty- or fifty-fivedegrees Fahrenheit, 13 degrees Centigrade. This helps preserve the wine so that it can continue the aging process in the bottle. Wine is a natural, perishable food product. Heat will destroy any wine. All types of wine will spoil when exposed to heat, light, vibration or variations in temperature and humidity. When good wines go bad, they turn to vinegar and ethyl acetate.

Stored in an unheated basement, wine can kept at the ideal temperature.

You can also buy a small wine refrigerator, or you can build a wine cellar for your bottles.

Business

30

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS/BRAND/EVENT ON AFROVIBES TV & RADIO A Worldwide Streaming Platform

Contact us:

8006575101 |

info@afrovibesentertainment.com

Artist Spotlight һ In-person or virtual interview plus performance һ Air on Afrovibes TV channel on Roku Channel and

Amazon Fire TV, the Afrovibes TV & Radio app and Afrovibes TV website. Available on VideoOnDemand section

•

After airing the interview, display on VideoOnDemand section on the Afrovibes TV platforms

һ Social media promotion (Instagram and Facebook accounts)

Red Carpet Events

• •

(Grand Openings, Weddings, Birthdays etc.)

һ Before event • Creation of image and video flyer • Social media promotion leading up to event • Email blast һ At the event • Provide Limo services and chauffeur • Provide red carpet and backdrop • TV hosts to interview your guests upon arrival • Provide DJ/MC/Hosts • Provide model and TV hosts to attend and work the crowd • Full photography and full videography һ After event • Edited photos • Edited video highlight reel of the event • Edited 30 mins clip airing on Afrovibes TV Business Spotlight on Afrovibes TV and Radio (Tell Your Story!)

һ 30min In-person or virtual TV interview and Business tour: • Provide Production team (Full camera crew) • Provide Videographer • Provide Photographer • Provide TV Hosts һ Social media promotion (Instagram and Facebook accounts)

• •

Record and edit promotional video Post on Afrovibes Radio and Television social media accounts (4 accounts)

һ Air on Afrovibes TV channel on Roku Channel and Amazon Fire TV, the Afrovibes TV & Radio app and Afrovibes TV website. Available on VideoOnDemand section

Record and edit promotional video Post on Afrovibes Radio and Television social media accounts (4 accounts)

Place of Worship Spotlight on Afrovibes TV and Radio (Tell Your Story!)

һ 30min In-person or virtual TV interview and Tour: • Provide Production team (Full camera crew) • Provide Videographer • Provide Photographer • Provide TV Hosts һ Social media promotion (Instagram and Facebook accounts)

• •

Record and edit promotional video Post on Afrovibes Radio and Television social media accounts (4 accounts)

һ Air on Afrovibes TV channel on Roku Channel and

Amazon Fire TV, the Afrovibes TV & Radio app and Afrovibes TV website. Available on VideoOnDemand sectionsection

Business

31

Business Commercials to air һ Air 30 secs TV commercials for x3 day for 1 month • Shoot and edit һ Air 60 secs TV commercials for x3 day for 1 month • Shoot and edit һ Air 30 secs Radio commercials for x3 day for 1 month • Record and edit һ Air 60 secs Radio commercials for x3 day for 1 month • Record and edit Interviews һ Air on Afrovibes TV channel on Roku Channel and

Amazon Fire TV, the Afrovibes TV & Radio app and Afrovibes TV website. Available on VideoOnDemand section

• • • • •

30min In-person or Virtual TV interview, archive on VideoOnDemand 30 min Radio Interview, archive on Afrovibes Radio website Social media promotion (Instagram and Facebook accounts) Record and edit promotional video Post on Afrovibes Radio and Television social media accounts (4 accounts)

һ Music Video/Feature on Afrovibes TV (Play your music video on Afrovibes TV, mobile app and website)

• • • • •

Price for twice daily for 1 month Price for twice daily for 3 months Play your music video in a popular weekly show break Price for 4 times 1 month Play your music video as Featured Song of the Week in one of our weekly shows that debut music videos

Music Video/Feature on Afrovibes TV

(Play your music video on Afrovibes TV, mobile app and website)

һ Price for twice daily for 1 month һ Price for twice daily for 3 months һ Play your music video in a popular weekly show break • Price for 4 times 1 month һ Play your music video as Featured Song of the Week in one of our weekly shows that debut music videos

Song Play/Feature on Afrovibes Radio һ һ һ һ

Price for twice daily for 1 month

һ Air 5 mins TV infomercials for x3 day for 1 month • Shoot and edit Business Promotion During TV Show һ Mention your Business x4 times in highly watched TV show һ Display of business/brand product Make your Company an Afrovibes TV and Radio Company Sponsor һ Sponsor a TV show with target audience for your business һ Create Afrovibes Event Banner with your Company logo һ Display Event Banner with Company Logo at all Afrovibes events for 1 month

һ Display Company logo on the highly-trafficked Afrovibes Radio and Afrovibes TV websites (2 websites) on the Homepages for 30 days

Business Writeups һ Email Blast of Brand/Business Blog Write-up • Write-up for Brand/Business Blog һ Instagram/Facebook video and image posts • Instagram/Facebook: @afrovibesradio @afrovibestelevision һ Image or Video on app or website for 3 days Live Programming on Afrovibes TV һ Coverage of Live-Streaming Event Live Event on Afrovibes TV & Radio App һ Coverage of Live-Streaming Event

Price for twice daily for 3 months

Rent TV and Radio Studios

Price for five times daily for 1 month

һ TV/Radio Studio Rentals (TV studio, Radio studio,

Price for five times daily for 3 months

Green-screen room, recording equipment)

32

Sports

Learn How to Play

GOLF

You should learn how to play golf. A game of golf is a terrific way to exercise and get outdoors. When you play golf, you learn how to focus your attention and to develop your skill.

Golf is the unofficial sport of the business world and is practically a required skill to succeed in a corporation.

The game of golf was invented centuries ago in Scotland or England, and quickly became popular. As far back as 1245 AD, King George of England complained that his subjects were spending too much time on the golf course.

In recent years, television has made golf a popular game and introduced us to famous golf stars like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Annika Sorenstam and teenager Michelle Wie. As you know, the object of the golf game is simple, to get the ball into the hole with as few shots as possible. Here you will learn the basics to play the game of golf.

Learn About the Golf Clubs, Grip, Shaft and Face The basic piece of equipment for the game is the golf club. The parts of the club are the grip, the shaft and the face. The golf club has a rubber grip for a firm grasp. It has a long shaft of steel or graphite to flex and provide the kick that makes the ball fly. The face of the golf club is the point of impact for the shot. The grooves on the club face help put spin on the ball. Spin makes the ball fly farther and stops the ball when it lands.

Golf clubs differ in the length of their shaft and in their loft. The longer the shaft is, the more powerful the shot. Loft is the angle of the clubface when it sits on the ground, and it varies from 10 degrees of loft on the driver to 56 degrees of loft on the sand wedge. The more loft on the clubface, the higher the ball will travel.

Learn About the Golf Clubs, Woods, Irons, Wedge and Putter The basic set of golf clubs includes three woods, nine irons, a pitching wedge and a sand wedge, plus the putter.

The woods have the longest shafts of all the golf clubs in your bag and they are used for your longest shots.

They are numbered 1, which is the driver, through 11. The higher the number on the club, the higher it will carry the ball. Despite their name, these days the “woods” are made out of steel or titanium.

The irons, made out of steel, help you get the ball onto the green. Just like the woods, the irons with the lower numbers hit the ball longer and lower, but with some loss of accuracy. The lowest number has the longest shaft. The three shortest clubs, the 9-iron, the pitching wedge and the sand wedge, are designed to get the ball in the air, and are used for accuracy, rather than distance. Professional players call these three golf clubs the “money” clubs, because they can save you shots.

Last and most important is the putter, which the pro uses for about 40% of all shots in their golf game. It has only 2-3 degrees of loft and brings accuracy for your greens shots.

Sports

33

Learn How to Play the Golf Course When you play each hole of golf, you’ll take your first shot from the flat grassy area called the tee box.

You’ll perch your ball on a small peg called a tee, which gives you an easier target. The rest of the time you’ll play the ball where it lands. The object in your golf game is to keep the ball on the smooth fairway grass and out of the overgrown rough.

With as few stokes as possible, you want to work your way toward the green, the groomed lawn around the hole and the flag. You’ll want to keep your ball within the white stakes that mark out of bounds. You’ll want to avoid the sand pits called bunkers because it’s hard to hit the golf ball in sand. Avoid the water and other hazards marked with red stakes. If you hit the golf ball out of bounds or into hazards, you’re penalized one shot and must replay the shot.

The Distance to a Hole on the Golf Course To make the game more interesting and to keep the greens fresh, the location of each hole is moved every day. The distance of each hole is measured from the standard tee to the center of the green, no matter where the hole is located on the green.

Your Handicap Is How Well You Play Golf Your golf handicap is the measure of your skill level. The higher the handicap is, the weaker the player. Your handicap is simply the average of your best 10 scores, out of your last 20 games, minus 72. If your handicap is 15, you usually shoot 72 + 15, or 87. A pro might have a handicap of 0, which means he/she usually shoots 72 for an 18-hold round. The golf club will keep track of your scores and compute your handicap. If you, with your 15 handicap, play a game against someone with a 5 handicap, you have a 10 stroke advantage. Your advantage in this golf game is computed as 15 handicap-5 handicap = 10 strokes. The rules of golf allow you to subtract one stroke from your score on each of the ten most difficult holes. This makes for a more competitive golf game.

Your Golf Stance Gets You a Good Stroke Getting off a good golf stroke depends on three things, your grip, your stance and your swing. In proper stance, you’ll have your feet about shoulder-width apart, and knees gently bent. You’ll bend at the waist and keep your back straight. The golf ball rests midway between your feet. Imagine a line between the tips of your right and left feet, and its direction will tell you where you are aiming the ball.

Your Golf Swing Is the Heart of the Game Nicknames for Bad Golf Shots, Slice, Hook and More

Learn How to Keep Score in the Golf Game Keep score in the golf game by counting the number of swings you take on each hole, even if you miss the ball. Every hole on the golf course is rated for difficulty as par three, par four or par five. On a par-three hole, an expert golfer would expect to make the hole in three shots. If your score is one under par, you’ve made a birdie. A score two under par is called an eagle. A score one stroke more than par is called a bogey, two over par is a double-bogey and three over par is a triple-bogey. And a hole-inone is the experience of a lifetime.

If your golf shot goes wrong, there's a nickname for that. Not every shot you hit will be perfect. If your ball curves out to the right, it’s a slice. To the left, it’s a hook. A straight shot which lands to the right of the target is a push, and to the left of the target, a pull. Your club might hit deep into the ground, a fat shot. Or your club might hit high on the ball, topping the ball. What you really want to do is to knock the ball stiff, a perfect shot.

The swing is the heart of your golf game and you will practice it often. The golf swing has three parts to master, the backswing, the downswing, and the follow-through. On the backswing, the golf club is moved, slow and low, back from the ball in an arc.

The arc is extended while the shoulders and hips rotate with the club and you shift your weight to the back foot. At the top of the swing, cock your wrists back for extra power.

For your downswing, bring the golf club down in the same path you brought it up. Unwind your body, hips first, then shoulders, and pull the club toward the ball with your left (non-dominant) hand. Let your weight shift to your forward foot. Your wrists will open up and the club will contact the ball with a strong snap.

The third part of your swing is the follow-through. The club continues in full speed in an arc until it comes to rest up over your lead shoulder. For right-handers, the left shoulder is the lead shoulder. Your body twists with it while your weight moves to your front foot. When the stroke is finished, your belt buckle will be facing the target, and your club will be perpendicular to your shoulders.

With practice, you will learn to master the golf swing. Then you will launch your drives with the speed and accuracy of a lasertargeted missile. You’ll be delivering effortless power and huge drives that will win golf games for you.

34

History

The Advantage of Internet Radio Over Traditional FM Radio Station

T

he world we live in is constantly changing in the way we connect and interact with each other. Technology has enhanced communication allowing individuals to swiftly and limitlessly interact around the world with the click of a button. The affordability of high-performance gadgets such as smartphones, laptops and tablets have provided unlimited access to live streaming and scheduled programming such as music, sports, radio shows, and world news for everyone. Internet Radio is one of these new age, easy to access amenities. While some may not be aware of what internet radio is, it has become an essential avenue to access the digital world.

Internet radio (also referred to as web radio, online radio or E-radio) is a digital audio service transmitted via the internet with the help of a software or standalone device. It is then connected to the internet and broadcasted to countless around the world. Pioneered by Carl Malamud in 1993, his radio show, dubbed "Internet Talk Radio", became a great success. By the late 2000s, interest in internet radio began to peak thanks to the availability of portable smart devices.

Internet radio offers great advantages to the world, one being its ability to reach countless listeners around the globe. People with access to a network service provider can tune into their favorite content using an internet radio station from any location in the world. Thanks to compatibility with phones and other smart devices, this cultivates unlimited reach to individuals from various locations, socio-economic background, culture, and demographics.

Quality attracts. This is a prominent aspect in which E-radio dominates. Internet radio all around the world boasts exceptional sound quality and reception.

Thanks to the internet, E-radio transmissions travel around the world uninterrupted, as they do not require the use of traditional AM or FM frequencies, frequencies which may wane and decompose as a byproduct of distance, location, and the weather. Traditional radio stations broadcast using frequencies that are picked up by radio antennas, which may cause interference, leading to unclear audio transmission. As many have seen with other internet based services, the internet ensures greater audio quality when streaming in comparison to FM radio stations.

Visual advertisements are very important to consumers and advertisers alike which presents a great opportunity for internet radio providers. Internet radio stations offer companies the ability to advertise their products and services using interactive videos, surveys, questionnaires and more. Traditional radio stations tend to be restrictive in the advertisements they allow and fail to offer listeners with visual representations of products/services. Choosing internet radio gives the consumer an opportunity to experience products and services as opposed to a more traditional route, such as listening to a catchy advertisement jingle.

These visual advertisements offered through internet radio provide a more meaningful experience to the listener, an added benefit for advertisers.

As many know, it is important for audiences to have access to a vast array of music which the internet radio supports. From classical music to afro pop, listeners can experience different worlds and cultures through music provided by well rounded content creators on the internet radio, in contrast to solidified and land locked creators on FM radio who may not feel inclined to versatility. AfroVibes, a prominent internet radio station, has been quick to take advantage of internet radio's endless opportunities by offering a wide selection of music genres with an emphasis on traditional, Afro, and Caribbean sounds.

Internet radio has transformed the way people connect to the world around them through access to their favorite programs. Quality of sound, coupled with the high level of interactiveness, a vast selection of content, and easy accessibility, brings listeners from around the world an affordable, stable connection to endless numbers of content creators and businesses. As E-radio continues to advance in technology and improve on ways listeners can tune in, the world is seeing that the future of internet radio is limitless.

- Written by Samuel Ogburubi

History

35

THE WAR IN UKRAINE: Effects and Possible Outcomes Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been the earth-shattering development of 2022. Still struggling with a global pandemic, humanity plunged into a dramatically heightened state of anxiety and fear as it watched a large and defiant Eastern European nation defend itself against a monstrous and unethical military onslaught from the Russian military. Russian president Vladimir Putin became an international villain, while Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy became a symbol of stubborn resistance against some of the most brutal forms of military aggression. The idea of nuclear conflict and obliteration has even been tossed around more so than at any other time since the Cuban Missile Crisis sixty years ago. What’s transpired in Ukraine over the past couple of months has been a crisis of epic proportions, and on so many levels as well. The war has created a humanitarian nightmare in Europe. The images of fleeing Ukrainian refugees and their collective suffering before an international audience has been unprecedented. The role of social media in this development cannot be overstated.

The global economy has had to adjust. Stalled financial growth and rapid inflation has wreaked havoc across the planet. The economic sanctions imposed on Russia by the United States and the European Union have been historically severe, leading to the suspension of trade with Russia by over 1,000 international companies. McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and Starbucks are among those companies who have withdrawn from Russia altogether.

Throughout this war, Ukraine has demanded more support from the international community in its resistance against the unmerciful Russian onslaught. Other nations, including the United States, have been reluctant to make any military commitment in Ukraine. The Biden Administration has feared an escalation of hostilities with Putin’s Russia, which it believes may very well have the potential of becoming nuclear, a type of deadly game that Joe Biden and other Western leaders want no part of.

However, the United States and other European nations have gotten into the business of shipping Western weaponry to the Ukrainians. This tactic has proved effective throughout the war so far, and has prevented the Ukrainians from being overrun and occupied by a largely ineffective and uncoordinated Russian military. Nevertheless, a retired American major general believes that the West will have to make a stronger commitment in support of the Ukrainian resistance if it wants to see Putin swallow the bitter pill of defeat in Eastern Europe. After advising the Ukrainian military for six years on a US government contract, retired US Army Major General Mike Repass has said publicly that the Ukrainian supply chain for military commitment is inefficient. He has also explained that additional military forces will be needed to drive the Russians out of the country. Repass believes that the United States and its allies should build up a Ukrainian strategic force of five brigades, around 40,000 troops, that are capable of mounting offensive operations. In defending his proposal, the retired major general looks towards history.

Throughout the Cold War, which lasted from 1945 to 1991, countries supplied with Soviet weaponry consistently found themselves outgunned by superior western armaments. The Persian Gulf War of 1990-1991 is a fitting example. In that conflict, the Russian-armed Iraqi Army, then touted as the fourth largest army on the planet with its frequently glorified Republican Guard units, was historically obliterated by a more technologically advanced Western military in the deserts of Kuwait and Southern Iraq. Iraqi morale quickly melted in the face of not only the latest Western military technology of that time, but also before an allied force built for maneuver. Eastern militaries generally are not indoctrinated into the ways of maneuver warfare, and are committed to a military model of attritional warfare, which has proven to be severely outdated on the modern battlefield.

Despite these pleasant realities, the Russian Army is massive, and has the numbers to replace its losses. So Repass believes that, without the introduction of a highly-maneuvered Ukrainian force to the fight against the Russians, this war could drag on for years. Such a development would likely not land in the favor of the Ukrainians, who need an all out ejection of Russians out of its country in order to claim victory. He points out that even a stalemate would be a victory for Putin.

Ultimately, the world continues to monitor this war within a state of terror. Everyday, we witness the death and tragedy that accompanies human war culture. We see a nation battling tirelessly for its survival during an armed assault that inspires us to make nostalgic connections to wars of the past century.

Regardless of the outcome of this war, and our past illusions of a post-Cold War era, the three decade hope of a New World Order has been shattered.

- Written by Max Jefferson

36

History

HERE WE GO AGAIN Bobby E. Mills, PhD

T

Mass shootings and racially motivated killings in American society are becoming commonplace occurrences. The recent racially motivated mass murders in Buffalo, New York are a spiritually troubling sign and reminder that American society is headed for the eternal bonfire. America has and will always be a multicultural society; love it or leave it. If you decide to remain then all of the US must have a “come to Jesus’ moment"; especially Christian Right Evangelicals who are masquerading as Christians but are doing the devil’s work.

he GOP call themselves conservative statesmen, but are in fact, greedy self-conceited, power hungry low-life individuals who are doing the devil’s work hiding behind White Privilege for example: January 6th, 2021. White Nationalists cannot be helped; they must be punished to the full extent, and by the letter of the LAW, because if you break the law, you must pay the penalty regardless of skin-tone (Cain’s Children). Most Godfearing individuals felt that the Dylan Roof Mother Emmanuel Church (AME) killings were horrific enough, but the Buffalo, New York mass murders is simply mind-boggling.

A young White Privileged Male with everything to live for, because of the color of his skin desires to kill others, who are disadvantaged because of their skin color. Sadly, the individuals that he killed were second classcitizens as defined by skin-color based upon the 1619 Project: disgraceful. It is time to begin to legally consider charging and holding parents accountable as accessors to the hate crimes their children commit toward others based upon ethnic, racial and bullying scenarios. Thus, if their children do the crime parents must do some time, because hatred is taught and exampled.

Children do not enter the world hating others.

The Kyle Rittenhouse case is a classic example of a spiritually dysfunctional family unit. A mother drives a son with a military-style weapon across state lines to commit a crime against others, because they do not think like you; even though they have the same skin-tone. Rittenhouse kills two

individuals and wounds a third, and the Former MAGA President invites him as a celebrity to visit with him in Mara Lago, Florida: shameful. Sadly, most GOP Voters praised Kyle Rittenhouse as a patriot giving him enormous sums of money for murder, but Godfearing Americans view this as insanity. Hopefully, this scripture is a stark reminder of what happens to the wicked: “The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.”

(Proverbs 14: 11).

Most Whites know exactly what they did to Indigenous Native Americans when they made them the minority. Likewise, Whites know exactly what they did to African Slaves the 1916 Project. Therefore, they do not ever desire to be in the minority in America, and therefore, they desire to exterminate potential future majorities by any means necessary (Replacement Theory). Consequently, a hate filled teenager with the phrase “Here’s Your Reparations” written on his assault rifle kills ten innocent grocery shoppers, and wounds three other shoppers while on a rampage in a Buffalo, New York Supermarket. This is insane unadulterated hatred buttressed by phrases such as “Jews Will Not Replace Us, Blacks Will Not Replace Us, and other minorities will not replace us.

America, knows that God works out all things for good for them that love Him (TRUTH): “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world: but that the world through him might be saved.”

(John 3: 17). America let’s take a sure thing, because all things are possible through and with God. Amen.

History

Texas Shooting Massacre at Elementary School Mirrors Rogue American Gun Culture The Robb Elementary School shooting in Ulvalde, Texas hits home for me. Being a native Texan from Houston, Texas and having a father who grew up in San Antonio, Texas, not far from this event’s violence, collectively serve as only the tip of the iceberg when analyzing this grim and heartbreaking event. Being a survivor of a severe autoimmune disease in 2003, at the age of 11, I can relate to this loss of innocence which the young survivors of this latest episode of gun violence in America is now coming to grips with. Coming to grips with mortality is not easy pill for any human being to swallow. But could this latest human disaster have been avoided?

Texas has historically been a conservative run state. The states contemporary leadership, dominated by controversial figures like Governor Gregg Abbott and Senator Ted Cruz, has recently made a name for itself on the issue of abortion rights.

Several other conservative states have followed Texas within this domain, eventually culminating in the historic overturning of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision.

However, the conservative leadership of Texas has also been notorious for its stubborn stance on gun rights and ownership. Gun rights have been ingrained within the DNA of American culture, dating back to this Country establishment. Whether it be in books, film, video games, or on television, our second amendment right has served as part of what makes us American. The most successful and expansive military on the planet has most certainly aided, and benefited from, the evolution of the American gunman over the course of numerous decades. However, American gun culture has proven to be self-destructive within the domestic realm. Within recent memory, the rise of gang culture and police brutality, especially during the second half of the twentieth century, made America an increasingly violent place to live in.

Although crime will always be a thorn in the side of all human societies, the question we must ask ourselves is if we are doing our best to prevent lethal acts of violence.

On April 20, 1999, the first widely publicized school mass shooting took place at Columbine High School in Columbine, Colorado. Two students killed 13 people and injured 20 others. Sadly, at least 554 people have been killed in school shootings since the Columbine High massacre. At Robb Elementary School, 21 people, including 19 children, lost their lives in the shooting spree that took place on this particular Tuesday. Tuesday’s tragedy was one of the deadliest since 1999, and should force Americans to question what society we live in today and should hopefully make us wonder about the mental state of our younger generations. In a world of social media madness and financial insecurity after years of a menacing COVID-19 epidemic, young people are more psychologically challenged than ever before. However, violence in American culture is fed by a wide variety of entertainment industries, ranging from music to video technology. Within the songs, movies, and video games that permeate our youthful experiences, is a glorification of gun usage and other modes of violence as a means for addressing our issues. This has certainly been the case over the past three decades or so. So then what's the solution? I honestly have no clue. Pushing universal background checks seems like a logical response.

However, it seems highly unlikely that traditionally conservative states, deep in cahoots with the likes of the National Rifle Association, would back off from their pro-gun commitments at this point. If they were going to, would't they have already done so? Perhaps unchecked gun usage will be one of the primary factors responsible for the collapse of this society. And if that does prove to be the case, I believe that we won’t be able to simply blame rogue politicians and billionaires for such a development. I believe that we, as Americans, would have to assume responsibility for allowing our divisions as citizens, and even our obsession with violence, to blind our collective desire for a safer and better society within which everyone can live successfully and freely.

- Written by Max Jefferson

37

38

Culture

American and African Gun Violence:

AN ONGOING HISTORY The recent Buffalo and Uvalde shootings as well as other recent events involving gun violence has reignited the debate regarding gun control and other problems that intersect with these shootings from racial hate crimes to mental health. America has experienced issues regarding gun safety and violence for decades to the point it’s one of the biggest policies of discussion in American society. Sub-Saharan Africa has also experienced similar gun violence as well, mainly as the result of gangs or militia presence.

According to Pew Research Center, 45,222 people died from gunrelated deaths in 2020 in America. 53% of deaths come from suicide, and 43% come from murder. This is a 25% increase of deaths compared to five years earlier and a 43% increase a decade before 2020.

Gun violence has been steadily rising and returned to the political consciousness with the recent shootings. Gun violence is significantly higher compared to most countries around the world save for some Latin American countries that have been dealing with criminal activities involving gangs.

In comparison, gun violence in America is closely comparable to gun violence happening in Sub-Saharan Africa, which is also a major problem in that region. The countries that supersede the United States in gun deaths in Africa are Cote D’Ivoire, South Africa, Cape Verde, and Lesotho.

Many of the factors that contribute to consistent gun violence in the region include lack of education, income inequality, uncontrolled urban planning, lack of faith in state institutions, and the high presence of informal organizations like gangs and militia that engage in arms trade.

Efforts to initiate gun reform are in action in both places. America has recently been in the process of attempting to pass bills that limit sales of semi-automatic weapons from 18 to 21; however, it was stopped in the Senate. The United Nations have made repeated initiatives to eliminate automatic weapons around Africa with varying degrees of success.

Perhaps, the most significant difference between gun violence from Africa and America comes from where mass shootings come from. Any widespread massacres or violence from gun violence in Africa is usually attributed to civil war and insurgencies by separatist groups. In America, a lot of mass shootings are done by individuals that have experienced deterioration in mental faculties and exposure to radical ideologies.

Firearms, including automatic and semi-automatic weapons, are also more accessible for a common citizen legally with little oversight. What may happen in regards to gun violence in both places is still up in political discourse with much yet to be solved.

- Written by Mathew Curran

Partners

39

Come out to the iconic Vienna Lounge for an unforgettable night of fun! As the most popular nightclub in Houston, Texas, we host the hottest DJs, live concerts, and so much more. Visit our newly remodeled location and enjoy the night with the best Afrobeats, Dancehall, Hip Hop, and Rap artists worldwide, including Davido, Flavor, Rema, Z-Ro, 2Face and many more!

Visit Vienna Lounge Monday through Sunday, starting from 10pm on, for an afterhours experience like no other. Special features include: suya, drink service, great ambiance, hookah, and more!

Free parking!

13655 Bissonnet St. Houston, TX 77083

 817-946-9610 @club_vienna_2.0 @viennaloungeandbar

40

Culture

Sweat Stain Hacks for The Girlies with Thick Thighs

My Neck, My Back, Mi Pum Pum Sweat Fast!

Written by

Khari “KJ Cr8s” Allen

Culture

41

T

he new hot gyal outfits you ordered last week finally came in! Of course you try them on and you are looking good! Body snatched, freshly waxed, and hair done... Girl yuh ready to hit the streets! But before we are ready to throw it back in the club or step to the neighborhood cookout, let's prevent ourselves from one of the biggest insecurities that women face with their bodies: SWEAT STAINS. Y’all know what I’m talking about! Your cootie cat and booty crack need some extra love during the summertime. We all know the saying “thick thighs save lives”. If we’re being fully transparent, the thick girls know the truth… Juicy thighs stick together when we walk and sit, get stuck in the chair, trap heat, and leave a condensation streak for the world to see.Now tell me whose life that’s saving… Nonetheless, nobody wants to be embarrassed with darkened lines in the creases where our clothes meet our skin.That heat ain’t nothing to play with! Especially when you put on a cute fit with light gray biker shorts. As a fellow thique madam, I picked up some hacks that can help out our community:

Opt for Sweat-Wicking undies. Cotton is the most

breathable material for that area, but it retains moisture for an uncomfortably long time. This is why you notice your pants are kinda wet, even though you didn’t pee on yourself. Brands like Parade, Alo Yoga, SavagexFenty, SKIMS, and hanky panky have undergarments with good moisture control.

Groom LESS. Hair down there acts as a barrier between your

pum pum, sweat glands, and the material you’re wearing. While most of us don’t want to deal with it, it's necessary to help with the sweat. I’m not saying to grow a wolf monkey but just trim it down instead of going for a full sugar wax.

Anti-Chafing and Sensitive Area Deodorants.

Don’t forget that friction can also add to the sweat. Investing in a good private part antiperspirant like Lume or an anti-chafing stick like BodyGlide can help reduce sweat tremendously.

Stay Away from Powders. You’ve probably seen your

mom, aunty, or granny throw some baby powder or talc powder in their panties to keep it dry. Its common practice when you get a wax too! But this doesn’t mean you should trap the powder in your panties all day. If it makes it way into your vagina you are putting yourself in danger of ovarian cancer and bacterial infections

Be Aware of Your Body. First of all, it is natural to sweat.

And you’re a hot gyal so of course it's gonna get a lil moist in the intimate area. Second, your period can cause extra moisture down there. Third, avoid spicy food and alcohol as much as you can.

Relax. The human body sweats more in stressful situations. And if you battle anxiety or even get super nervous, you WILL sweat.

Try yoga or various breathing techniques if you tend to be on edge quite often.

See A Doctor. If you feel like you’ve tried everything and the

sweat is so uncontrollable, you may have hyperhidrosis. There are prescription medications you can qualify for that may help out.

Keep it cool, with refreshing drinks for the summer!

42

History

HERE ARE THE POPULAR OPINIONS ABOUT ROE VS WADE AND ABORTION: The Viewpoint from the Left Women have the right to have or not have the children they conceive according to the 14th amendment. Abortion is simply a healthcare procedure, according to Planned Parenthood.

ROE VS WADE Supreme Court Decision Shakes Up America

by Sharon C. Jenkins

Women are at risk if abortion isn’t legalized because they won’t have access to safe abortion procedures. Otherwise, they will either perform them on their own or have an illegal abortion somewhere else. Women in poverty are at a greater risk because they don’t have the resources to get a safe abortion offered in another state or country.

It’s not ethical to force a woman to have a child that she cannot afford to care for or nurture. The unwanted child becomes a victim and lives a life of hardship and pain. Especially if the child is conceived in rape or incest.

The Viewpoint from the Right God sanctifies the right to live. In other words, abortion is legalized murder.

Embryos immediately take on a human form at conception.

W

omen in America are either dancing in the streets right now or mad as hell. On June 24th, the Supreme Court overturned the historic Roe vs Wade legislation. It originally came into law in 1973. The decision revokes the constitutional right for a woman to have an abortion in the United States. According to the ACLU, “The state of Mississippi used Dobbs to issue a direct invitation to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. The case was brought on behalf of the last abortion clinic in Mississippi by the Center for Reproductive Rights, and it challenged a state law banning abortion after 15 weeks, in plain violation of Roe. The state asked the court not just to uphold the 15-week ban, but to reconsider the constitutionality of abortion entirely and to declare that the Constitution does not protect the right to abortion at all.” It ruled affirmatively. This ruling has drawn a line in the sand between mothers and daughters, Christians and non-Christians, and right wingers and left wingers.

Many religions support the fact that abortion is murder.

There are other viable options to abortion, such as adoption. Especially since the rate of infertility has increased exponentially over the years.

There are many things that have divided America over the last few years: war, the pandemic, poverty, economic instability, racism, politics, religion, gun violence, etc. We can now add this historic Supreme Court ruling to the list. It will be interesting to see where America finds herself at the end of 2022.

What do you think?

Business

43

AFROVIBES TV & RADIO APP

AFROVIBES TV & RADIO APP AFROVIBES TV & RADIO APP

DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD OUR APP OUR APP

DOWNLOAD OUR APP

Watch Afrovibes TV on: Watch Afrovibes TV on:

Afrovibes TV on Roku TV Afrovibes TV on Roku TV Afrovibes TV on Amazon Fire TV Afrovibes TV on Amazon Fire TV Afrovibes TV & Radio APP Afrovibes TV & Radio APP Afrovibes TV Website www.afrovibes.tv Afrovibes TV Website www.afrovibes.tv

DOWNLOAD IT TODAY ON:

Watch Afrovibes TV on: DOWNLOAD IT TODAY ON:

Afrovibes TV on Roku TV

44

Health & Wellness

What Foods Do Vegetarians and Vegans Eat? You become a vegetarian or a vegan when you decide to eat a plant-based diet, avoiding red meat, chicken, pork, fish and seafood. A vegetarian or vegan diet includes fruits, vegetables, cereal grains, nuts, and seeds.

Do you want to become a

Vegetarian or a Vegan?

A Complete Guide to

Vegetarian Eating People who become vegetarians and vegans are healthy, happy herbivores who have replaced animal foods with plant foods in their diet.

Vegetarians make a lifestyle choice that lets them feel good about how they live their lives. They eat a food diet that benefits their health, the earth and the animals. Here we present a complete guide, if you want to know more about becoming a vegetarian or a vegan.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

Margaret Mead

•

A Semi-Vegetarian eats small amounts of animal flesh.

•

A Pesco-Vegetarian eats no animal meat except fish.

•

A Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian does not eat animal flesh, but does eat eggs, milk, and dairy products.

•

A Vegan does not eat animal flesh, eggs, milk or dairy products. Many vegans do not use any animal products like honey, gelatin, silk, leather, or wool.

Veganism is a difficult choice in our culture.

5 Reasons Why People Become Vegetarians and Vegans Many people become vegetarians and vegans. Their reasons for this lifestyle choice can be economics, religion, health, compassion for animals, belief in nonviolence, concern over animal rights, or concern for the environment. Vegetarians say, "Choosing vegetarian foods is one of the best things we can do for ourselves, the environment, and for animals." But it is hard to be vegetarian where eating meat is popular by tradition, habit and culture. Only a small minority said they were vegetarians, just 3% of the people in the United States.

•

Economics For much of the world, people become vegetarian as a matter of economics. Meat costs a lot more than beans or rice, so meat is served only on special occasions. Even where meat is plentiful, it's still used in moderation, often providing a side note to a meal rather than taking center stage.

•

Environment People become vegetarian because it is good for the environment. In a crowded world, raising animals for food use more resources, water, feed and land than plant farming does. According to the United Nations, the livestock industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation worldwide, to air and water pollution, land degradation, climate change, and loss of biodiversity.

•

Religion People become vegetarian as a matter of religion. Traditionally many Hindus, Buddhist monks, Seventh-day Adventists, Rastafarians, Hare Krishnas, and most Chinese Buddhists do not eat meat. Other religions practice fasting and avoid meat during specified times such as Lent, Yom Kippur and Ramadan.

•

Animal Rights and Ethical Concerns People become vegetarians to support animal rights. They reject violence and the killing of living creatures. Industrialscale animal farming and slaughterhouse practices cause animal suffering and disease. For some vegetarians, beef, fowl and fish are four-letter words.

•

Health People become vegetarians for better health. Studies show that a vegetarian diet extends your life expectancy by several years. The China Project, in conjunction with Cornell University, studied 880 million people over 20 years. It found that a diet with less meat reduced heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, the major causes of mortality in the Western world.

Health & Wellness

45

Is a Vegetarian Diet Healthy?

When you become a vegetarian, you can still have a healthy diet. The American Dietetic Association officially endorses vegetarianism, and says "Appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases." A vegetarian diet should be about more than not eating meat. It's also about eating smart. Like everyone else, vegetarians must pay attention to their food choices. Anyone who eats a diet of peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, soft drinks and Pop-Tarts will be undernourished.

What Should Vegetarians Eat for Good Nutrition When you become a vegetarian or a vegan you should eat smart to get enough of these important nutrients, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, protein, vitamin D, and zinc.

Vitamin B12 Vegetarians absolutely must make sure they get enough vitamin B12. B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is found in fish, shellfish, meat, eggs and dairy products. It helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and makes DNA, the genetic material in all cells.

Vegetarians can get vitamin B12 from dairy foods, eggs, aged cheese, fortified brewer's yeast, vitamin B12 enriched processed foods and as a supplement. For good nutrition, some breakfast cereals, soy milk and vegetarian burger patties are fortified with vitamin B12.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Like everyone, vegetarians need omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy heart and immune immune system, along with other benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids are obtained from fish and sea vegetables, as well as the milk, eggs and meat from grass-fed animals. If you are not eating fish, eggs or dairy, vegetarians should include in their daily diet some chia seeds, English walnuts, flaxseed oil, unheated canola oil or ground flaxseeds. The easiest way to get enough in your diet is through a supplement. If you haven't heard about chia seeds for omega-3 fatty acids.

Calcium Calcium, found in milk and yogurt, is important for healthy bones. If a vegetarian is not eating dairy foods, there are other foods that are good sources of calcium. The green leafy vegetables, like kale, collards, broccoli, okra, and bok choy, are rich in calcium. Tofu, soy milks, and orange juice are often fortified with calcium. Figs are also a delicious source of calcium. Spinach, Swiss chard and beet greens are also high in calcium, but it is poorly absorbed in the body. A daily supplement will provide calcium if you are not getting enough in your diet.

Protein When you become a vegetarian, you can get your protein from cheese, milk, eggs, and many kinds of beans, like garbanzos, kidney, pinto, and navy beans. Other good sources of protein for the vegetarian are lentils, split peas, green peas, edamame, tempeh, and other soy foods. Grains, nuts and seeds also provide protein. There is protein in peanut butter, tofu, cereals and soy milk. But green beans and string beans are not a high-protein food. It is an old-fashioned myth that you have to combine certain foods together in your meal, like beans and rice, in order to get a complete protein.

46

Health & Wellness

Whole Grains When you become a vegetarian, whole grains are a good source of nutrition. Whole grains are cereal grains that contain the germ, endosperm, and bran. Think of them as nature's superfoods.

There are many whole grains besides whole wheat. Get acquainted with Oats, Barley, Maize or Corn, Brown Rice, Farro, Emmer, Einkorn, Rye, Spelt, Millet, Quinoa, Amaranth, Triticale, Teff, and Sprouted Grains. Even popcorn is a whole grain. Buckwheat and wild rice are not strictly grains, but they are also nutritious.

Vitamin D Vitamin D works with calcium to build strong bones. Sources of vitamin D are sunlight and vitamin D fortified cow's milk. Vegans can use fortified soy milk, fortified breakfast cereals and, if necessary, a vitamin D supplement.

Iron When you become a vegetarian, there are many ways to get enough iron in a vegetarian diet. Sea vegetables like nori, wakame, and dulse are very high in iron. More familiar sources of iron are iron-fortified breakfast cereals, legumes, chickpeas, lentils, and baked beans, soybeans and tofu, raisins and dried figs, pumpkin seeds, broccoli, and blackstrap molasses. When you eat these foods, it is recommended that you include a source of vitamin C, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and broccoli, to help you to absorb the iron better.

Vitamin A Good sources of vitamin A are carrot juice, kale, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, cantaloupe, green leafy vegetables, nuts and fruit. Whole grains are an important source of vitamin A that can be overlooked by vegetarians.

Iodine is needed for a healthy thyroid gland to regulate metabolism. Iodized salt, seafood, and seaweed vegetables provided the necessary iodine. Your daily multivitamin also contains iodine.

Zinc The mineral zinc is vital for many functions in the body. It helps to resist infections, strengthen the immune system, heal wounds and support enzyme reactions. When you become a vegetarian or vegan, you can get this important mineral from dairy products, beans, lentils, yeast, nuts, seeds and whole grain cereals. Pumpkin seeds provide one of the most concentrated vegetarian food sources of zinc. Soy products like tofu and tempeh are also good zinc sources.

Easy Vegetarian Meals Fruits and Vegetables When you become a vegetarian, you can create delicious, interesting meals, in addition to the customary vegetable salads. Vegetarian meals include whole-grain pasta, along with plenty of vegetables, beans, grains, and fruits. You may also find that the veggie burgers, hot dogs, and chicken substitutes available in your local grocery store taste very much like the real thing. Try the ground meat substitute, tofu or seitan as replacements for beef in foods like tacos and spaghetti sauce. Your grocery store offers alternatives to almost any animal food, from soy sausages and "Fib Ribs" to Tofurky and mock lobster.

There are many delicious replacements for dairy products, like soy ice cream, chocolate soy milk, and tofu cream cheese, to name just a few. Traditional recipes can be adapted to a vegetarian or vegan diet with these easy substitutes, so you can dine in style.

Whole Grains in the Vegetarian Pantry When you become a vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy foreign cuisines like Thai, Indian and Chinese that offer vegetarian meals. Vegetarian restaurants can even be gourmet delights. The Millennium Restaurant in San Francisco was my first experience of a scrumptious gourmet vegetarian menu for foodies. Check your favorite vegetarian restaurants and cookbooks for more inspiration. Vegetarian or not, it's always a healthy idea to eat a wide variety of foods and explore new foods when you can.

Partners

ARTIST

Spotlight

Nigerian Afrobeat singer, Alex Chukwu, popularly called Xander 042, has assured millions of music lovers that his foray into the industry was not to join the bandwagon but to deliver unique songs through a style that cannot be rivaled and that which would for years remain relevant in society.

Xander 042 said that for months now, he works hard daily to ensure music lovers get the best from him, saying this is borne out of the passion he has for music and believes that lovers of entertainment deserve to have better music that addresses their needs.

The singer noted that his aim was to set the pace in the industry and put his name on the world map for his legacy to be seen by the unborn generations for his contribution to music development.

According to him, I have come to hold the music industry by storm. I can assure my fans globally that they will continue to enjoy my best always.

Xander 042 disclosed that he composed and write lyrics, delivered, attitude, confidence, message, live performance, and others which further portrays his uniqueness as a singer.

@xander042official xander 024 @Imxander042 xandermusicempire.com

47

48

Afrovibes TV Show

SPOTLIGHTING NEW TV SHOWS TRAVEL & DESIGN

WINE ABOUT IT

Sophia Clark is the host of Afrovibes TV Show Travel & Desgin. Sophia is a Cum Laude graduate from a CIDA accredited Interior Design program at Utah State and also holds a Bachelor of Arts in sales and marketing. Sophia has obtained a Master in Interior Design at the Florence Design Academy in Florence, Italy. Having lived for 18 years abroad (Ecuador, Qatar, Mexico, Spain, Peru, France, Italy) and having traveled extensively, she has discovered a wide variety of cultures and aesthetic designs that have significantly enriched her artistic abilities. It has also enabled her to develop an ability to write and speak fluent French, English, and Spanish and a proficiency in Italian.In addition to other initiatives, she is the founder and creative director of Galiatea who specializes in curating and designing luxury custom furniture and accessories from Brazil and Peru. As an award winning furniture designer, she showcased her collections in some of the world prominent trade shows such as Salone del Mobile, Top Drawer, the Hotel Show in Dubai, etc.

Wine About It is a show hosted by Tim Giraud, in which he talks about multiple different issues, current events, and life stories, while enjoying a taste of special wine from around the world with guests and friends, an oenophile’s dream come true. Tim Giraud is also the founder of his organization Six Arm Strong, which helps military veterans around the state of Texas.

THAT’S DIVINE That’s Divine is a show hosted by Kaiyen Thach-Le, with the purpose of discovering how the divine is expressed through people in different ways and how divine love, wisdom, and will is passed through storytelling, artistry, entrepreneurship, mission work, and other passions. Her desire is to show the sacred journey of extraordinary ordinary humans and how the walk looks differently for everyone, yet the essence remains the same. The show is a combination of deep yet playful in-house interviews, event coverage, and spontaneous interactions in the community.

LA HORA ROSA DJ Rosez is a Houston based DJ who embraces her Salvadoran roots. Her goal is to provide more queer representation for queer people of color within the DJ industry by curating epic perreo and chingona vibes.

FOR THE CULTURE Melissa is a Navy Veteran and the host of the new TV show "For the Culture"

Why

Health & Wellness

49

MEDITATION IS MEDICINE LIVING INTENTIONALLY When we breathe with more intention, we live with more intention too. To live with intention means to not take life for granted. It is staying conscious of our thoughts, belief patterns, and actions so that we may take radical responsibility for the reality we experience no matter where we came from. Living intentionally means you take the proper means necessary to take control back in your life by making conscious decisions. You can intend who you choose to be in every waking moment. This is when the vehicle of your spirit is no longer running automatically.

You are consciously driving on the pathway led by your soul. The GPS is your intuition and meditation is the fuel for your engine. Meditation is medicine.

LISTENING TO GOD To live life as a moving prayer is to live in constant communication with God. To live life as a moving meditation is to live in constant communion with God. Being with the eternal now is when you are in communion or “coming into union” with the divine or the universe. When you are present, you are in the presence of God. The moment is the only moment that exists, yet people miss the magic in the moment when they’re stuck in the past or worried about the future. When you are here now, then you have arrived. Be in the stillness of the now, and you will see that God speaks not just through whispers or intuitive nudges, but through signs and synchronicities. To be silent gives us space to receive the messages. This is why the anagram for silent is listen. When each moment is a meditation, you are always listening. Here life is serendipitous and full of miracles because you are in harmony with life. Meditation is medicine.

LEARNING TO LET GO Meditation is not about clearing your mind; it is really about letting go. The mind is a receiver of thoughts. We can use the body to release those thoughts through our breath. In meditation, witness your thoughts as merely the observer. Avoid identifying with them. Then, take a deep breath and exhale that thought. The mind will continue to receive thoughts, but the idea is to focus on your breath. As you release your breath, you release the attachment to the thoughts too. This practice helps you live life without attachment, and it is the attachment to things that are meant to be let go that causes suffering. Meditation helps release attachments that no longer serve you. Wanting to hold on will not fill what is missing; only remembering that you are whole can. This happens in meditation. Meditation is medicine.

LOVING ALL OF WHO YOU ARE In meditation, you become more self-aware as you practice becoming a witness to your thoughts and emotions. As the observer you practice seeing through the eyes of God, sending love and understanding to each thought as if it is a child that just wants to be seen. There is no judgment or resistance. Instead, there is an acceptance of what life is, and you can choose to respond from a state of nonjudgement, or you can react from a state of pain coming from attachment. When you can witness and love yourself for all that you are - it is much easier to witness and love the world around you. Meditation helps us awaken to the pure essence of our original state of being and to consciously return to that loving state in our waking life. Meditation is medicine.

LIFTING THE VEIL OF ILLUSIONS When you come into union with the divine in the present moment, the lines of separation begin to blur. There is only oneness. The fear and hate in this world are based on this illusion of separation. In the realization of the All as One and knowing that One as Love. One can only be that of love in that deep state of inner awareness of who One Is. Imagine if we all come into this realization through daily meditation. The pain of the world comes from the lack of selfawareness and the forgetfulness of the divinity that lies in all. When you remember, it is much easier to forgive those who have also forgotten who they really are and act in accordance with their current state of awareness. The key is not to take things personally and trust in the divine timing of the remembrance of the love, wisdom, and will that exist from within all. Meditation is what helps us remember. Meditation is medicine.

- Written by Kaiyen Thach-Le

50

Technology

ARE YOU MAKING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TARGETS FOR IDENTITY THIEVES? “They won’t have the freedom I had as a child to transform myself.

In junior high school, for example, I wore only pink and turquoise.

But when I moved across town for high school, I changed my wardrobe entirely and wore only preppy clothes with penny loafers.

Nobody knew about my transformation because I left no trail, except a few dusty photographs in a shoebox in my parents’ closet.”*

Identity thieves are everywhere and they’re tracking you on social media. Parents protect children when they are online but may be unintentionally leaving them vulnerable to identity bandits. In the past, thieves had to go through your trash, stand too close to you at the checkout stand, or google you. Today’s social media makes it so much easier to get plenty of personal information. We often connect with each other through social media that makes the distance between friends and family seem shorter.

Shoulder Sneaks and Lookie Lous. Be aware of anyone standing too close to you at an ATM, check out stand or anytime your card leaves your hand. Use one credit card so you can track all expenditures and pay it immediately from your bank account. NEVER use your debit card in these situations, if anyone gains access to your account, they can drain you in hours.

Keep Track of Receipts.

Recent studies indicate identity theft is on the rise and the perpetrators never leave their desks. Unknowingly, we help them to be successful at their lawlessness. We post when we are on vacation, when we buy a new car, a new house and the list goes on.

Be aware of scams called phishing. When you give out your phone number, birthdate, email address or phone number, you are now a target for malignant and invasive attachments.

Do NOT open emails from people you do not know. An easy red flag is an email with grammar and spelling mistakes.

DON’T RESPOND TO THEM!

Proud parents and grandparents are eager to share the arrival of a new baby. It is a joyous time, and we share names, dates, birthplaces, and the parents’ names. All this becomes fodder for thieves. Equally, we list graduations, military induction dates, and colleges our kids attend. And who doesn’t love a fun ‘answer this survey’ question that is designed to innocently track information.

Unsubscribing. When you receive emails, you do not want, unsubscribe BUT be aware if you are taken to another screen and asked to put your email in that you want unsubscribed, DON’T! Instead, move the email to the blocked section of your mail. If you fall for the above unsubscribe you may add yourself to another lengthy list of unsolicited emails.

Below, I have listed links that wade through understanding how a pilferer operates and how to protect you and your loved ones from them: Tips to protect your personal life from identity thieves: Be aware of what is public. We often think our accounts are protected, but they aren’t always. Take the time to scan the security features quarterly.

Google yourself. See what is out there on you. Then be mindful of the information you post there in the future. When I googled myself, I found three pages of available information.

Don’t accept friend requests from people you do not know.

Or at the very least, investigate them. Know who is asking to be a part of your circle or your child’s.

When you go on vacation, post pictures after you get home. Do not let burglars know you are not home. This is important even if you have a house sitter, you may leave them vulnerable. Be careful when you check-in or share your location. A lot of us like to take a picture of our feet on the iconic PDX airport carpet, be aware you just signaled with the date that you are not home.

Passwords. We have all struggled to remember a log in password so we either write it down, or we use the same password in all our log ins. DON’T! A smarter choice is to build a unique password that has random numbers, letters, and symbols. Never use the same password for fun accounts, business accounts and accounts dealing with your money.

Keeping track of all your passwords can still be daunting.

Consider opting for password managers like: roboform. com, or NordPass.com or Keeper.com. A good password manager will integrate or merge strong passwords, remind you to change them, and be your first line of defense against predators.

All this to say, be aware. If you don’t understand, get help. If you do not like implementing security, get software that will.

If you want to share your grandbabies pictures, awards, and successes, do it in a general manner eliminating detailed facts or set your social media to private. We all want to applaud our young people’s success, but we do not have to know the details that could jeopardize their safety.

Be Careful Out There!

Julia Angwen

History

51

IT’S ALL ABOUT MONEY Bobby E. Mills, PhD

Pursuing one’s own pleasure while ignoring or exploiting the needs of others leaves an individual void of God's conscience, spiritually unfulfilled, and an empty vessel that is under God’s anger and judgment. God desires that we enjoy life, but He also desires that we avoid those things and activities that lead individuals away from fellowship with Him (TRUTH). The vulgar love of money is the main thing that separates individuals from God and from each other. It is written: “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many arrows.” (1 Timothy 6:10). Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary most individuals vulgarly believe that money brings happiness. Money is a cruel master. Rich individuals who crave greater riches usually get caught-up in ruin and self-destruction. To whom much is given much is required, because when God blesses you, He also has others in mind. Remember the Rich Man who thought his wealth would permit him to live forever, because his harvests were great. He could eat, drink and be merry. Therefore, he declared that I shall tear-down these old barns which were completely full to the brim and build bigger barns. The death angel appeared to the Rich Man and declared: “thou fool this night your soul is required of thee”. (Luke 12: 16-21). Question: who will the harvest belong to? America, the harvest belongs to GOD, because as Job declared: “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1: 21). The Wisest and Richest man that the Bible records declared, everything is futile, BUT GOD. Hence, “Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity. What profit hath a man of all his labor which he taketh under the sun?” (Ecclesiastes 1: 2-3).

Christian Right Evangelicals the church should not be an economic enterprise, but a spiritual union of faithful believers in the power of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Likewise, families should be spiritual units; not economic units, even though families have economic functions. God gave US the answer in (2 Corinthians 6: 1-2): “We then, as workers with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in time accepted, and on the day of salvation have I succoured thee, behold, now is the accepted time, behold, now is the day of salvation.” America, if these scriptures do not affect your spiritual attitude toward money and wealth then God has another final way of reminding all of US of the real deal concerning both our humanity and divinity, because: “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” (Hebrews 9: 27). Moreover, “God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.” (Psalm 7:11). Will someone please tell Putin, Trump, Kim Jung Un, Christian Right Evangelicals, The GOP and White Nationalists that: “The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.” (Proverbs 21: 16). More importantly, “The house of the wicked shall be overthrown but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.” (Proverbs 14: 11). America, God says write the vision, and make it plain upon paper that he or she who read it will run! (Habakkuk 2: 2-3). Amen.

52

Spotlight

A Life Style & Entertainment SKE is a promotional company established in 2010 and based in Houston, TX. The company was founded by a group of friends with one main goal, which was to provide an authentic and immersive African entertainment experience to our community.

Over the years, we have organized, hosted, and promoted premier events ranging from fashion shows, comedy, concerts, Volunteer experiences etc., and provide Consulting and Advisory services to small business and to sole proprietorships in our community.

Since our inception, we’ve worked with several reputable names in the African Entertainment industry and local acts in our community which include Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, Burna Boy, Diamond Platinum, Basket Mouth, Aphrican Ape, Oloye, I Go Die and many more.

We are dedicated to not only bringing the best and most authentic events to our Houston Community, but also leveraging our expertise and experience in providing excellent consulting and advisory services to our customers.

Website for all information and events: www.shekpeknights.com Instagram: @shekpeknights Twitter: @shekpeknights Facebook: Shekpe Knights Phone: 713-269-1259

TIMOTHY STUDIOS

Culture

53

When my transition to the entertainment industry began, I had no clue where it would take me. I simply knew I was taking the path. I wrote a couple children’s books. I published poetry.

I taught myself videography. Proudly, a music Video I created and produced won “Outstanding Music Video of 2018, at the Boss Fame Awards.

I learned to write songs. I visited with smart, successful, and creative people.

54 Years old and starting a new brand.

What is wrong with me? Absolutely nothing. Like all of you, especially those of you in your 20’s, I dream.

After 20 plus years in a successful white-collar career, plus 8 years in politics, I remembered the dreams of my youth. And I committed to pursuing them with all I have.

Many in my inner circle think I am crazy, but most support me, even though they know I am entering into the most competitive industry in the world.

I love entertainment. I love creating. I love the joy a creator feels when their project moves others. And I mostly love that I have created a place for this all to happen.

Timothy Studios is a labor of love for me. It began with trial, error and correction. It is done now, and I am proud of what we have built.

I am fortunate that one I met is Philip Balonwu - owner of AfroVibes Entertainment Group LLC. Philip immediately opened his arms, heart, and studio to me. It will, at the end of my life, be archived as a defining moment in my life. He and his team are the reason I chose to build my studio adjoining his.

The science of a recording studio is important.

We put a lot of thought and effort into ensuring the science was right. We knew we had to have the best of everything. We knew our vocal booth had to produce the best sound in the City of Houston. Everything had to be the best. We bought the best, and we built the best. While doing this, we knew that as important as it is.

It is still only half the equation. The other half, equally important, is the Vibe. This is where I knew I could be different.

Welcoming is our Vibe. During the build out, we invited artists from every genre. We invited painters, writers, vocalists, musicians, businessmen, and women. And we invited them in from all over the world. I counted visitors from 14 different nations during our build out. We listened to them. We watched their expressions.

We saw what brought joy. We added and we subtracted until I knew that Timothy Studios was welcoming to all.

Some of my friends laugh at my inability to dislike things. I like people. I like music. I refuse to be limited to one group, culture, or race of people. I refuse to be limited to one genre or time period of music. And I refused to build a studio whose Vibe wasn’t welcoming to all.

Everyone, no matter who you are, has something special. Timothy Studios is here to help you bring that special to the world. Our Vibe is second to none.

Our equipment is first class.

Come see us. You are always welcome.

Tim Martin 936-425-0474

www.timothyproduction.com

trment2004@gmail.com

54

Lahor Music Act, 7Teen Set To Release New EP, Announces Release Date The newest signee of Lahor Music, Toheeb Adebayo Yekini popularly known as 7Teen is on the verge of setting the ball rolling as he confirmed the coming of his new EP. The Ajegunle born young artiste is not resting on his oars as he is battle-ready to start disturbing the music industry with some exciting new sounds.

Few days after signing a mouth-watery record deal with US/Nigeria record company, Lahor music, 7Teen announced that his new EP "Diamond in The Dirt" will be out on June 25th 2022.

The singer disclosed that the EP is a solid 5-track EP which is done to exhibit his musical skills and for the whole world to understand the distinctiveness of 7Teen's sound.

"I am dropping this EP to make y'all catch a glimpse of the energy and vibe I am bringing on. June 25th #DiamondInTheDirt EP will be out. Thanks to everyone for supporting".

Going by the details in project's cover art posted on his IG page, 7Teen's forthcoming EP contains tracks such as; Diamond, Loner, Midnight Lover, Energy and Gbedu.

You'd recall that in February 2022, 7Teen's love themed-track "Midnight Lover" was one of the most beautiful love songs of the season. The song earned massive streams across all platforms immediately after release and also got a lot of positive reviews.

All signs point to "Midnight Lover" being included on 7Teen's upcoming "Diamond In The Dirt" EP, which will be released soon. Fans, on the other hand, are positive that the young musician will present an outstanding musical project that will be mind-blowing.

"Indeed, we are going to experience diamond in the dirt, a classy Afro-beat musical project from an Ajegunle boy" a fan said.

55

We at Brazos Kidney and Hypertension Care, take pride in our skills of listening, educating, and working in partnership with our patients.

We take our satisfaction in knowing that you, our patients, are satisfied.

Under the care of board-certified physician Dr. Chizoba Obi and his staff, you can feel confident that your health and quality of life is our priority.

•

Chronic Kidney Disease

•

Fluid & Edema Management

•

Hypertension

•

Electrolyte Disorder Management

•

End Stage Renal Disease

•

Renovascular Disease

•

Urinalysis Evaluation

•

Polycystic Kidney Disease

•

Kidney Stone Evaluation

•

Proteinuria Screening & Management

•

Anemia Management

•

Kidney Inflammation

•

Acute Kidney Injury/ARF

•

Hematuria

•

Kidney Function Evaluation

•

Hypo/Hyperkalemia

•

Post Kidney Transplant Management

•

Dialysis Management

2310 De Lee Street, STE 100 Bryan Tx, 77802 USA T: 979-485-9496 info@brazoshkc.com F: 979-485-9497 https://www.brazoshkc.com/

56

Spotlight

First Nigerian Artist in Houston to make the

US Billboard Charts.

Heph B

a.k.a. Linkupbwoy was raised between New Jersey, New York, and Nigeria. Music was always a part of his home where he lived.

At the age of 5, he discovered a love for playing the Drums and By the age of 11, he expanded his talents by learning to play the Piano. His musical tastes were also developed at a young age. He developed a love for the African sounds through his upbringing with his Grandmother in Nigeria, and experienced Dancehall, Reggae, Hip Hop, Pop, R&B, and Gospel music while living in the US. In his early years as a Recording Artist, Heph B started out as a Gospel/Inspirational Rapper. While the career path gave him minor success and buzz in the Tristate Area, it wasn’t until his relocation to Houston, Texas where he transitioned into a more diverse Artist, tapping into his roots and culture, and embracing the sounds that raised him. Blending Dancehall, Reggae, and Afrobeats into the sound called AfroDancehall, and his Da Anointed Entertainment label established, he ventured into a new journey in music.

In the years that followed his rebrand, he found success with the single, “Best Feeling”. The track was featured on his “50/50” EP, and it caught the attention of many, earning music chart placements in various parts of the world, being featured on the celebrity album “Miungu ya Muziki”, movie soundtrack placements, and landing him a nomination at the 2020 BET Awards where he also performed. After releasing more singles following “Best Feeling”, Heph B found success again with the single, “HIDE”. The track gained him more music chart success, and helped to build great momentum for the release of his latest album, “AMARII”which was released Nov 4th 2021 and Charted at #14 in the US World album charts, his Lead Single HIDE charts #1 on South African Reggae Charts and also hits #4 in the UK World charts.

He has shared the stage and collaborated with the likes of Wizkid, Burnaboy, Davido, Romain Virgo, Vybz Kartel, and Qraig Voicemail among many others.

In April 2022 Heph B released a new single titled “BIG BOY” which has sparked the world as he Chart #5 on the US BILLBOARD CHART on the Top 25. This has made him broke all records of being the First Nigerian/Jamaican in Houston Tx to earn this. He reigns as Houston’s King Of AfroDancehall, and is on a mission to bring his unique sound to more places around the world.

57

We are pleased to announce the opening of our new satellite location in Atlanta, Georgia. Afrovibes Entertainment Group Atlanta LLC (Afrovibes TV & Radio Station). We are set to start operations in August. You can find our new office at 2470 windy hill rd. Marietta GA. We are working on opening other satellite locations in LA, Maryland Dallas, New York and Toronto, Canada.

We would like to thank you for your consistent support and for your steady business. We look forward to continue serving you. If you have any questions regarding the new location, you can contact us at 800.657.5101 X 4 or email info@afrovibesentertainment.com.

58

POST PANDEMIC EDUCATION Introduction

Virtual/Hybrid Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged educators to consider new and innovative ways to educate students. Most courses were traditionally taught in a face-to-face environment in years prior to the pandemic. There is a lot of research to support the effectiveness of modern teaching methods. As an educational leader, I supported our staff members to enhance the curriculum adopted by our district by incorporating the following strategies: project-based learning (PBL), flipped classroom, virtual/hybrid learning, and gamification as effective methods for teaching in the twenty-first century.

Hybrid courses are those that combine the traditional learning environment with distance education components. According to Captivating the Crowd with Hybrid Teaching, the authors state that “prioritizing standardization with regard to instructional design and student experience will become more important as course modalities hybridize and proliferate and students are constantly involving themselves in the latest and greatest technology, as evident on most college campuses they can be seen listening to their iPods, reading their smart phones, or logging in wirelessly with their laptop computers; the technology allows for faculty to reach students in a manner that is common to them.” Through a survey, students were asked to evaluate the seven student learning outcomes articulated by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) during the face-to-face and virtual portions of the courses and survey results showed that students rated their learning outcomes higher for face-to-face instruction for all course types and levels. It is widely selfreported that the remote students feel isolated from the in-person team members due to a lack of social presence. The disadvantages of synchronous online learning include the learning process, technology issues, and distraction. Social isolation, lack of interaction, and technology issue are a few disadvantages related to asynchronous online learning. According to research , student engagement is improved with the hybrid approach and “the in-person students also complain about less engagement from the remote students.”

Project Based Learning In Jonathan Kracijk’s Project Based Learning, project-based learning is becoming increasingly popular at all stages of public schools and within colleges. Students are commonly bored by traditional teaching methods, but most people believe that students should be able to learn even while being disengaged. As an alternative, in project-based learning, students are able to work in the way adults would learn in the real world. Students select a problem to study and figure out and they get information from several places to discover the best solution. Compared to students who received traditional instruction, students that engaged in the project-based learning curriculum “demonstrated positive affective benefits and significant gains in content knowledge as well as historical thinking skills.”

Flipped Classroom Flipped Classroom is an approach where students are allowed to reverse or switch roles and become the teacher. This approach is based on the behaviorist theory and videos, lectures, and activities are combined to create an independent study of sorts for groups of students. According to Impact on Flipped Classroom on Low-Income Students, compared to an asynchronous online class, students could be synchronous at the team level to complete their assignment any time prior to the deadline such that they could work during class time but they were not required to work at that time. “A universal concern about cooperative learning is the possible existence of “hitchhikers,” team members who fail to fulfill their team responsibilities but get the same high grade as their more responsible teammates.”

Gamification According to Making the Connection: Encouraging Technologyspecific Reading Skills Through Structured Readings of Texts, students grew up with technology, play video games, have an even shorter attention span, and prefer engaged and interactive learning; gamification, also known as serious game, is the use of game thinking and game mechanisms in a non-game context to engage learners in solving problems. Elementary, middle, and high school students are often encapsulated by their devices such as PlayStations, Nintendo Switch, and more and by nature would become excited by the ability to learn through games. Educators may use games to motivate students and build relationships while helping students to learn in a creative way.

Conclusion In conclusion, educators face multiple challenges while teaching variations of delivery methods in their courses. Some of the challenges are course content design, learning new technologies and LMSs, and effective communication, (Eggleston, A. G., & Rabb, R. J. (2021, July). Over the past decade, we, as a society, have been growing accustomed to consuming bite-sized chunks of information; it is delivered to us over mobile devices with considerably smaller viewing screens than even laptop systems (Chandra, V. J. 2020). What is necessary to create a change is for the department or college, to have a comprehensive and integrated set of components: clearly articulated expectations, opportunities for faculty to learn about new pedagogies, and an equitable reward system, (Akili, 2012).

- Written by Dr Eunetra Simpson

59

AFROVIBES COFFEE Coffee with a Vibe!

As a leader in urban culture and entertainment, Afro vibes TV & Radio decided it was time to showcase our love for the most cultural beverage in the world, that’s right! Coffee!

After countless hours curating the perfect flavor profile we believe will resonate with our community, we are proud to announce the launch of the Afrovibes Cold Brew Coffee! Locally roasted and bottled by a coffee sommelier, our cold brew is made with the highest quality beans on the market and promises to give you the right amount of energy to start your day.

Now available in Mocha or Vanilla!

Get yours today!!

VANILLA OR MOCHA DAIRY FREE COLD BREW

info@afrovibesentertainment.com www.afrovibescoffee.com | @afrovibes_coffee A SIGNATURE PRODUCT OF AFROVIBES TV & RADIO STATION | 800.657.5101 x 5