L'Amour Diversity Magazine Issue 13 Aug 2017

ISSUE 13, AUGUST 2017

Celebrating uniqueness not trends!

~Mumtaz~ Taj Mahal

An interview with the sim’s founder Voodoo Spyker Page 16

Publisher's Note

It is the end of an era for me that I just want to share, my youngest daughter graduated in the top 10 of her class for 2017. You watch as this amazing human being works so hard, it was all her, I might add, when it came to her schooling. My kids were taught at a very young age that it's their responsibility, and what they put into it they will get out of it.

Can I tell you what a wonderful and fun magazine we have put together for you for August 2017.

She was accepted into several SC schools here in California and chose to attend Woodbury University, a prestigious school here in LA. She also received one of very few merit scholarships based on grades from Woodbury, so very proud for sure.

"Modeling & The Military Could It Be True?" by Karin Deuttmann a new writer to L'Amour Diversity. A special sim we will be doing a story on called Mumtaz Taj Mahal with owner Voodoo Spyker, who also graciously invited us to do the 38th Pazzo Style Challenge themed, "High Fashion India," right at the sim.

I want to start this edition with how grateful and thankful I am to have those around me at L'Amour who make what I get to do a delight. It's funny to me that you can take your time and know in your heart that the Lord will lead the right people into your path for all the right reasons.

4

We have some new amazing photographers on the grid with Infinite Exposure Photography. Matt Iron (Jaernskaegg) and Acelynn Fae (Acelynnfae). We will get up close and personal and learn about these two.

So have a sit in a comfy chair and enjoy the August edition of L'Amour Diversity Magazine.

n i m a h Ava J

Write On!!!!!!

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Celebrating uniqueness not trends!

ISSUE 13, AUGUST 2017

STAFF PUBLISHER/EDITOR Ava Jhamin EDITOR IN CHIEF Rienna (Rieko) Iron FASHION EDITOR Trinity Aironaut WRITERS Ava Jhamin, Rhiannon Colclough, Rienna Iron, Karin Deuttmann PHOTOGRAPHERS Ava Jhamin, Jena Adder, Trinity Aironaut, Matt Iron, AcelynnFae DIVERSITY MODELS Ava Jhamin, QueenBrat Bracken, Trinity Aironaut, Vichonette Constantine ON THE COVER Mumtaz Taj Mahal Photographed by AcelynnFae The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. ®2017 L'Amour Productions. All rights reserved.

Second Life™ is a registered trademark of Linden Research, Inc.

6

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Editor's Note

August in the Northern Hemisphere is a great month. Summer is in full swing at the start, and by the end, we are gearing up for school to begin again and the onset of autumn. Autumn... that wonderful time of year when one hears school buses in the morning and the leaves begin their crunchy descent towards the ground, just waiting for someone to rake them into a pile and jump through them.

friend with more creativity in his little finger than most people ever dream of, and learned more about the various things he builds and does in SL. I got to learn more about my favorite mob group in SL, the "Chickmob" from its founder, AbigailPoe.

The subject of this month's Fashion Editorial is hair! And what a lot of great styles and looks there are to pick from in Second Life! Through the amazing In the Southern Hemisphere, August is photography of Trinity Aironaut, the the seasonal equivalent to the Northern L'Amour Diversity models bring you Hemisphere's February. For many people some wild and crazy styles you may in Europe, August is the month when not have known existed. As Ava most people go on summer holiday. mentioned, we also have the official August has several meteor showers announcement of the addition of two that take place during its weeks, Kappa great photographers, my amazing Cygnids, Alpha Capricornids finishes husband, Matt Iron and his business out in the first week of August. The partner AcelynnFae and an article about Southern Delta Aquariids goes until mid- their business.

August and the largest meteor shower of the month called the Perseids ocurrs Ava, our staff and I hope that you at this time. enjoy this month's offering of L'Amour Diversity magazine as much as we Here at L'Amour Diversity, August enjoyed putting it together for you! means a new issue and, as Ava pointed out in her Publisher's Note, we have a great one in store for you this time around. I had a chat with my friend Bunnygun Gourdou Koray, an amazing guy who I am proud to count as my

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

7

Table of Contents 10 Introducing Three new members become a part of the L'Amour Diversity team. Join us in welcoming them.

14 Modeling & The Military Can there really be similarities between SL modeling and the RL military? Karen Deuttmann explains

16 Mumtaz Taj Mahal

va Jhamin takes us inside this incredible A replicate sim and introduces us to its founder and creator.

24 Pazzo Style Challenge The 38th Pazzo Style Challenge themed "High Fashion India" was a great success and a lot of fun. Join us for an inside look.

26 Legitimacy of online Charities How do you tell?

Rhiannon Colclough asks this very important question and provides some answers.

8

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

32 Responsibilities of a Contesant Just what is expected of someone in an Agency or Brand sponsored competition anyway? L'Amour's own Ava Jhamin shares some insight with us.

34

Hair, Hair, Hair!

The L'Amour Diversity models show us some amazing hair on the grid in our Feature Editorial.

46 Infinite Exposure Photography See what the new L'Amour Diversity dynamic duo are all about with an exclusive interview with Ava Jhamin.

54

Chickmob!!

Looking for more fun when you're out?

Look no further, the Chickmob is here!

Find out more and learn about its founder AbigailPoe. Rienna Iron reports.

64

Bunnygun's Gearbox Who's this spikey-haired guy with the unusual name anyway? Read his story with Rienna Iron.

76

Are We Good Stewards?

Ava Jhamin shares her thoughts and research with us. Read it and learn ways we can all make a difference.

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

9

Introducing

New Writer In The House Of L'Amour Diversity By: Ava Jhamin Karin came to L'Amour Diversity via training as a model and working for L'Amour. She decided to branch out and wanted to be a writer for L'Amour Diversity Magazine. For me it was a no brainer to hire Karin, I know her work ethic and I know her as the amazing human being she is.

Karin joined Second Life out of curiosity.

Her husband had seen a short article in a local paper about it, and both of them created avatars that day. They are partners here as in real life and enjoy exploring the virtual world together when the spirit moves them.

Karin is passionate about many things In real life, Karin is a fifty-something but most recently her focus has been year old woman who lives on the east modeling and sharing her knowledge and coast of the USA. She has been happily experiences. That sharing has translated married to her husband for twenty six into a new creative path for her; years and has two wonderful children. writing. Writing is her way of sharing her thoughts with the hope of inspiring She met her husband while they were others or initiating meaningful dialogue. both serving in the United States Marine She looks forward to continuing this new Corps. She is honored to be a Veteran phase of her Second Life and sharing it and belongs to a veterans group here in with you.

Second Life.

10

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

New photographers in the field

Here at L’Amour Diversity Please welcome the amazing team from Infinite Exposure Photography - Matt Iron (jearnskaegg) and AcelynnFae. These two are a formidable photography team.

Thanks for joining up with L'Amour Diversity Matt and Acelynn!! Please see their full article on page 41.

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

11

12

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

13

Modeling & the Mili

By Karin D skills that have helped me in real life and here in second life, especially as a model.

The military considers the skill of selfdiscipline to be of utmost importance.

This means doing what must be done, even if it means passing up the opportunity to do something more enjoyable. For example, staying in your barracks room to prepare for an inspection rather than go to the club with your buddies. If you want to pass the inspection, you stay and prepare.

Not an easy choice, but a necessary one.

As models, we practice the same selfdiscipline. Picture the following scenario: you're in the middle of styling an outfit for a show that takes place soon. You still have two outfits to style after I know, I know. You're reading the title this one, but, your friend asks you to and thinking that a mistake has been go shopping or dancing. You long to made. Modeling and the Military; can they really be compared to each other? go with your friend, but you know the stylings will take a while and you have Has this writer completely lost her real life commitments as well. As a mind?

While the answer to the second question is debatable, I assure you that the answer to the first one is "yes, they are comparable." I know it seems impossible, but bear with me while I share my observations.

First, let me explain that in my real life I have a family history of military service which includes eight years of my own active duty in the United States Marine Corps. In those eight years I learned many valuable skills;

14

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

itary, Could it be True?

Deuttmann professional model, you make the decision to complete the stylings and go with your friend at a later date. Not always an easy choice, but certainly the right choice. We've all had to do it.

Without the skill of organization, our military services would be lost!

From the rawest recruit to those chosen for special details, being organized can be the difference between success and failure. These individuals need to know where to find what they need, when they need it, to get their job done.

In the world of modeling, being organized is essential. We need to be able to find a multitude of items as quickly as possible...sometimes on very short notice! Clothes, hair, jewelry, accessories, you name it, we need to be able to find it NOW! Personally, I make it a point to spend some time each week on my inventory organization. I have a special folder for storing items I've bought until I can sort them into their proper place. I have special boxes for old items that I'm reluctant to delete.

I may have crossed the line between "organized" and "obsessed", but a model's inventory can never be too organized.

The last skill I would like to compare is called attention to detail. In the military this can mean being in the assigned place at the assigned time, checking

your uniform for stray threads before an inspection, or filing correspondence in the proper sequence. It's a skill that makes things run smoothly for everyone involved and when practiced correctly, can keep you alive in a dangerous situation.

In order to have a successful career as a model, we must pay attention to details, I don't just mean prim breaks either. The way we present ourselves to others as professionals, the way we communicate with people, the things we put in our profiles, our attitude during shows, our willingness to help others. All of these details are important and all can make a difference.

So, yes, there are similarities between modeling and the military. When we are walking the runway, showing the audience our best efforts, we have used some of the same skills to get there that men and women in the services use to defend countries around the world.

Just a thought to reflect on.

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

15

Spotlight

~Mumtaz~

By Ava J

Taj Mahal

Jhamin

I am convinced that people are put into your path for a reason. I have a way of doing my photographs in which I put on what I am going to wear and long before I even get to taking pictures I clearly see it in my head.

So on this particular day, I was writing up the Pazzo Style Challenge for the month of August, themed High Fashion India and talking to Alal Allen, who has taken up the reigns of Styles by Danielle since our beautiful Dani Plassitz passed away. She sent me a gown they had done for the store, inspired solely by Dani and I told her I would blog it.

I explained what that was. I asked if she would like to host the next Pazzo on her sim and she so kindly agreed. The rest, as they say, is history.

I told Voodoo I would love to do a story and pictorial of her sim and she loved the idea. So kick back, get a drink and snacks as we get to know the wonder woman behind this most beautiful sim.

First, a little background of Mumtaz Taj Mahal. The sim was designed and is owned by Voodoo and her partner Freyja. They have been working on the sim for the past 8 years. They started with a quarter sim and it is now both I put it on and was overwhelmed with Danbi and Hana, nearly 2 full regions on seeing a total inspiration not only of Dani the mainland, with 512 meters of Linden but of India. I went with it and searched ocean. They have replicated both the places for "Taj Mahal." I came across a Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, which was the beautiful sim called Mumtaz Taj Mahal. I main residence of the emperors of the was taking pictures and was contacted Mughal Dynasty in India.

by Voodoo Spyker the owner of the sim.

One thing led to another and we are I sat down with Voodoo to find out now fast friends and new business will more about her life, her partner, and her come out of this one. amazing dream of Mumtaz Taj Mahal.

The first thing I told Voodoo was that I Ava: How did you first come to Second was doing the Pazzo Style Challenge and Life?

18

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Voodoo: I had been involved in online chats, AOL and IRC for many years and had learned about the virtual worlds community as early as 1998 so when Linden world came out in 2004, I was an early adopter. That account is long gone and It was very primitive back then, so I quickly lost interest. Then In 2007, I again heard of SL and decided to check into it. I quickly realized it was much improved and I fell in love with the building tools and the creativity it allowed me.

really bad but I was proud of it, mostly because I had made it myself. Soon after that I began building, creating houses and other such things.

Voodoo: Oh when I first came to SL they put you in orientation places, so you could learn your way around.

I rezzed in a little train station where many AVs sat and chatted. For the first 6 weeks I worked on my AV. I had very little money so I created a custom shape and made a Skin in Photoshop.

The shape I still use today, the skin was

Ava: What are some of the things that you and Freyja love to do on Second Life?

Ava: How did you and Freyja meet?

Voodoo: Frey and I met at a pagan sim where she was "shield maiden" and her friend was conducting classes. I was still finding my way around SL and she offered to help me with the class notes. We struck up a conversation and I learned that she enjoyed building too, Ava: Tell the readers what you did when we have been together every day since she first entered SL? that day.

Voodoo: Wow thats a great question, too many things to list really, building is always one of the first things that comes to mind. We are always working on something, usually 3 or 4 things at a

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

19

time. We often have orders for custom designs, full regions etc. I usually have some project cooking of our own as well. We love to create themed builds and always have several in the planning stages or underway in varying degrees.

We also host events on the sim, most days with various DJs and acts..So you can find us usually dancing and partying when not building something on a monstrous scale. haha. Frey and I share a love for the water also, we often take our boats out on the Linden ocean which adjoins Mumtaz Taj Mahal, we enjoy sailing around the 40 or so water sims in the area.

Ava: How did you decide to build this magnificent Mumtaz Taj Mahal?

which has a rather involved answer.

First, I have to share with you that I have an interest in what is called "sacred math" and its connection to buildings and use in religions. Without going too deeply into the topic, I will give you an example and leave it to your readers to find out what its significance is.

The example it is ÎŚ or the golden ratio.

Second, while studying the buildings that best use this and other sacred maths in the designs, I found the story of Mumtaz the most favorite wife of Shah Jahan, a truly incredible love story.

Many people are familiar with the Taj Mahal, but everyone should read about this remarkable woman for whom the building was made.

Voodoo: That is another great question, I also feel very strongly about creating

20

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

builds that symbolize what is pure and true. Buildings that encapsulate many thoughts and emotions and that speak to people of all nations and religions, For me one thing that is universal is Love, and I could not think of any better building to symbolize that than the Taj Mahal.

These things pointed the way for building Mumtaz Taj Mahal, and like its real life counterpart its a work of art. that is never quite finished.

that I personally enjoy. Frey will take any idea we have and find a way to make it happen. This allows me to chase whatever flight of fancy we are pursuing at the time. Yes, I am the artsy crazy one, wild eyed and chasing after castle in the sky.

Ava: Was it harder than you imagined or did it just come together from the vision in your heads?

Voodoo: No actually, if I have a clear vision for things it's very easy, the Ava: What is the inspiration for you both difficulties usually are with constraints in your design of this wonderful sim? imposed by Sl; terrain, prim limits lighting models etc.

Voodoo: Smiles, Freyja, she inspires me.

Seriously, we work together so well at Mumtaz Taj Mahal has evolved over times its as if we are of the same mind. time starting with a quarter sim and now In over 9 years, we have built many occupies the entire region of Danbi. I many large scale builds and it is always have had this layout and design in my the doing and creative problem solving head since we came to Danbi in 2010, L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

21

for me it is just a matter of filling in the missing bits.

Ava: Can you please tell our readers what a typical day for you both building would be?

Voodoo: Oh my!! There is no typical day, but a lot of times I start out with detailed photos of something similar in RL I want to replicate or use as reference, and a 'mock-up" of the overall design. If Frey is deep into her "prim bashing" as I call it, I usually "Paint" the prims. She is very fast at precision building and I am equally fast with my "texture gun " working in tandem we can build large scale very quickly..So my biggest issue is staying ahead of her in design mode.

then. She and I will complete the 16 region Mutmaz Taj Mahal build. Yes, I said 16 regions, a full scale Taj build would take that much space with the gardens and a few waterfront regions on the Blake sea would be nice, We do love our boating .

Ava: If you could give advice to all upcoming builders on SL, what would that be?

Voodoo: Well, let me see....hmmm, best advice is, when you think you know it all, LL will change it and a little tip for the future ..whispers "Voxels"

Ava: I want to thank you both for one of the best interviews I have ever done on SL. You are both not only beautiful, but smart and two of the most creative Ava: How do you deal with conflicts with wizards I have ever met.....a big hug each other in the builds or is that not and thank you both. Stay creative and the case? love one another forever. Readers of Diversity, I will come back and do a story Voodoo: Oh, we never have conflicts, on their love story. ahem, smiles and looks over at Frey.

Seriously though, every build has To see this beautiful sim for yourself, issues, things that don't turn out quite please click the Slurl link below: as you'd expect. Knowing this and anticipating you will have issues, goes Mumtaz Taj Mahal along way towards solving design/build difficulties. We usually hash things out as they occur. If we can't solve the issue, whatever it is, we usually can work things out with broadswords and 30 minutes of combat..

Ava: Where do you see yourselves in the next 8 years with your building and your love?

Voodoo: Well, I have heard it said that a month in real life time is like a year in Second Life. So, if we are still around in 2025, that would make us old as dirt.

Lol. I would hope that Frey and I will have many more regions and builds by

22

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

23

38th

24

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

h Pazzo Style Challenge

High Fashion India at Mumtaz Taj Mahal Contestants Shadow McConach Noreen Barineaux Winner Noreen Barineaux

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

25

26

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

27

Charity

Legitimacy of Online Charities How do you tell?

By: Rhiannon Colclough

So, you're wanting to help those who are in need.

Of course, if you are a die-hard SLer, you go to charity events in SL. There you are, getting drawn up in the emotion - of course you feel sympathy for whomever is suffering - but maybe a little voice in the back of your head is going, "Do you think this is wise - I mean, do you know anything about this charity?" Now, no one likes being seen as a Scrooge, of course, especially when others around you are so invested in the cause. But is asking questions being a Scrooge?

After all, it could be a fraud, how do you know?

I'm sure we've all fallen prey to scams, and it is far more difficult to verify online charity efforts than it is out in the "real world." However, it is possible to do some investigating and make sure that your money goes to something legitimate.

According to Joseph Peterson, there are 8 ways to tell if an online charity is on the level:

1. Is it someone you know or vouched for by someone you know?

2. Have you heard of them?

3. Does the money go to a respected charity?

4. Is the graphic or user design bad/buggy?

5. Do they have the little bits of their website filled out?

6. Is there evidence of work that organization has done elsewhere in the news?

7. Are they part of an online giving environment?

8. Does it stink? (If it smells like a scam, it probably is).

For a complete explanation of this information, please see his full article here Sid Kircheimer, from the AARP Bulletin, adds that the easiest way to check if something is reputable is to go to websites such as the Wise Giving Alliance, operated by the Better Business Bureau. Other useful websites include Charity Navigator and GuideStar. You can type in the name

28

of the charity and see if it exists, and if the money goes to where they claim it does. He also reminds us, "In general, good charities spend less than 35 percent of donations on fund raising and administrative costs."

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Megan Elliot, in her article "7 Signs That the Charity You're Donating to Isn't Legit," gives a handy checklist on how to tell - if a charity has quite a few true, it might just be a scam. The checklist is as follows:

1. Only wants donations in cash.

2. Can't tell you how your money will be used.

3. Can't prove it's a nonprofit.

4. Is a "sound-alike" organization.

5. Pressures you to donate right away.

6. Asks for a donation over the phone.

7. Has no proven track record.

One thing that is good to know - popup charities usually are more local and although they can do damage, they usually need to move too quickly to do significant damage. Frank Addessi though, reminds us that there are professional scammers who often have look-alike names similar to legitimate charities that can do more harm than their fly-by-night counterparts. His article outlines the top 50 worst charities, often donations to these organizations only reach their claimed beneficiaries 0% to 11% of the time.

See the full article here.

ScamWatch is an Australian government website that gives more warning signs: *You've never heard of the charity before, or it is well-known but you suspect the website, email or letter may be fake. A fake website may look almost identical to a legitimate charity site, changing only the details of where to send donations. *The person collecting donations on behalf of the charity does not have any identification. Remember, even if they do have identification, it could be forged or meaningless.

*You are put under pressure or made to feel guilty or selfish if you don't want to donate. *You are asked to provide a cash donation as they don't accept checks.

Or, they want the check to be made out to them rather than to the charity. *You are not given a receipt. Or, they give you a receipt that does not have the charity's details on it.

This website also gives good advice on how to avoid being scammed: *Approach charity organizations directly to make a donation or offer support. *Check the organization's name and look them up. *Legitimate charities are registered. *Never send money or give personal information, credit card details or online account details to anyone you don't know or trust and never by email. *If you are approached by a street collector, ask to see their identification.

If you have any doubts about who they are, do not pay. *If you are approached in person, ask

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

29

the collector for details about the feeling from helping others - because charity such as its full name, address you actually have. and how the proceeds will be used. If they become defensive and cannot answer your questions, close the door or hang up. *Avoid any arrangement with a stranger that asks for up-front payment via money order, wire transfer, international funds transfer, pre-loaded card or electronic currency. It is rare to recover money sent this way. *Don't open suspicious or unsolicited emails (spam) – delete them. If you click on a link or open an attachment, you may install a harmful program without knowing it.

Forbes magazine article "How To Evaluate A Charity," by William Barrett, gives a breakdown of several charities, including some reputable ones, that explains how to tell if a charity has been fiscally responsible. This article is invaluable as it gives you a reliable way to find out how a charity is doing.

Yes, it is sad that there are those out there that would take advantage of people's charitable donations. But such is life...the only person who can help you, is you. Do your research, check out charities, and make sure your money goes where it will actually help those who are in need. If you do that, you've earned that nice glow and warm fuzzy

30

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

31

32

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

33

Fashion

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CONTESTANT IN A SPONSORED COMPETITION

BY: AVA JHAMIN The excitement mounts, "should I do this big competition or not?" swirls in the heads of many models on the grid and they ask other models if they should enter. Along with deciding to do a competition, comes the responsibility, on the models part, as well as the organization putting it together.

Let's start at the beginning, the press release is put out and the model receives it. In a perfect SL world, assuming the organization released all the necessary dates to potential participants, the model would look at the dates and check them against their RL and SL calendars to make sure all of them work. It seems a go, but inside their head they're still fighting if they should or shouldn't.

Another factor to consider is the individual rules set forth by each organization. As in any situation in life, competition rules are in place for a reason. While each agency decides the rules that work for them, there are a few rules that are fairly universal across the grid. For example, the rule that a contestant may not participate in a competing agency's pageant at the same time, which then flows into not holding one agency's title and entering the competition of another agency during the title holder's reign.

34

This rule is pretty universal amongst the major modeling agencies and designer competitions in Second life. A title holder is not allowed to represent one organization's brand and represent another competing brand at the same time. Considering pageants in real life don't allow that sort of thing, it makes sense that agencies in Second Life wouldnt either. Just as a title holder cannot represent two countries at the same time, neither can someone in SL represent two agencies or brands at the same time. In Second Life, this is a big no-no.

As a participant considering one of these competitions, when you agree to participate, you also agree to adhere to the rules of the competition even if you don't agree with them or like them. You can't say, "ok, well, I will do both compeitions and just see what happens." Not only is that not fair to other participants from whom you could be taking a spot, but it's also not fair to the organizations holding the competitions.

One of the biggest lessons for models is, if you commit, give it your all, and know that if you win you will have a one year commitment to that brand, and will not be able to do another big competition in that year of your reign.

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

You can't make your own rules because you don't want to follow them, or you think you can get away with it, because you never will.

your beliefs are not on the same page as the organization's from the time you enter, then you should not waste their or your time.

I would like to share, what I consider to be the 10 Golden Rules of entering a competition, and which I believe to be fairly universal across the grid.

A contestant must always emulate ladylike or gentlemanly behavior respectively and remember that a gentleman or a lady should always approach situations with a desire to learn.

A title holder is chosen for inward strength, ethics and overall character.

A competition winner represents their agency or brand through appearance, behavior and always in a way that shows true beauty. "There is no "I" in team," therefore a title holder needs to be a team player. They need to always be a trend setter and be one to look up to.

A competition winner is one that manages their priorities, is willing to serve in whatever capacity he/she is needed, with courage, humor, wisdom.

Encouragement of others is always the ideal for a competition winner. Never is one rude or dishonest.

A contestant maintains a teachable posture and embraces change for the better. They do not compare themselves to others, but embrace their strengths and accepts their weaknesses.

A contestant consistently demonstrates respect, restraint, and personal responsibility in appearance, behavior, and communication. They are honorable, have values and respect others at all times.

A contestant is able to navigate various social and professional settings with ease and proficiency, and embraces all people, no matter their social or economic backgrounds.

A contestant ensures their profile is clean and professional and represents what that title is all about. Keep any questionable activities such as sexual A contestant always has a strong work content out of your profile. Remember, ethic, is trustworthy, loyal, poised, your profile is your resume and graceful, and confident. by extension, represents the organizations and companies for whom you work.

Any model, but in particular an agency's title holder, needs to represent and be a role model to all on Second Life; this can be other models or anyone else on the grid.

A title holder needs to represent their agency or brand 24/7, not just when it's convenient or easy. If L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

35

It’s Strange, It’sWild It’s Hair...Hair...Hair.

Trinity Aironaut [sYs] Hanabusa 36

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

d, ...

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

37

Olyvia DeCuir {Letituier} Flora

38

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

39

Vichonette Constantine .Or. Rin

40

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

41

Ava Jhamin .Or. Migmey 42

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

43

QueenBrat Bracken Zibska Thorir

44

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

45

46

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

47

AJ: Hi Catalysis. How are you?

Cat: I'm well thanks. Before we get started, I want to thank the people at Model's Workshop, as well as the organizer's of the other well known monthly styling challenges. These mini competitions are fun, relatively quick to prepare for, and a great learning experience for everyone from the brand new, to the more seasoned models.

I highly recommend them and try to participate whenever I can! Keep up the great work!

AJ: Well thank you, we enjoy doing them and we do hope they help models to hone their styling skills and gain some valuable feedback. What schools have you attended and achievements have you earned?

Cat: I've been blessed with some great teachers and mentors. I've completed and graduated from Models R Us Academy, Audace School of Modeling, and Metaverse Modeling Academy where I received the Student of the Cycle award. But the learning doesn't stop there. Every show, magazine shoot, contest and pageant is a learning experience. Everyone I've met along the way helps me continue my education on a daily basis.

AJ: How long have you been on SL? Cat: I've been in SL for about 5 1/2 years on this avatar. I also had another avatar for about a year before this. For reasons we wont go into, she had to be 'put to sleep'. lol.

not being very tall in RL, I was lucky enough to get to do a few different things including a magazine layout, and a television commercial. In SL, I took my first modeling classes just about a year and a half ago now. I've always loved AJ: How long have you contemplated the clothes in SL and it finally dawned being a model: on me that some lucky person actually Cat: Like many young girls, I fantasized gets to model for all those great ads, magazine layouts, and fashion shows! about being a model in RL. Despite

48

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Once I got started, I was hooked.

AJ: What was the inspiration for your outfit?

Cat: I wanted to do something different. Steampunk is a fun genre with lots of options. I've been told many, times (Ava....lol), "Google is your best friend." So I googled and

found that I could do a retro-futuristic styling and still be within the boundaries of the genre. Honestly, I thought it might be too different to win, so I was very surprised at how much everyone seemed to really like my styling choice.

AJ: How did you go about putting your winning outfit together?

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

49

Cat: I had a few basic pieces in my inventory that I knew would work and I went from there. I only bought one piece this time, the cool ear plug made from a watch face.

AJ: What's been you favorite moment in SL so far?

Cat: The answer to this changes periodically. Things happen in SL that just can't happen in RL. Today my favorite memory, and the one that makes me laugh the hardest, is when the runway flipped up and dumped me in the ocean during this challenge! I was just dying laughing and thought, 'what a fun way to tell us we didn't win!' LOL

Whenever I can, I try to be involved in charity events, either as a DJ or model. I also own Chill Spots and Photo Ops. I love owning land that is open to the public, playing hostess and giving people a nice place to hang out and practice their photography. I have a designer friend who frequently takes her vendor pictures at my place.

AJ: What do you find the modeling community in SL to be like?

Cat: When I first started modeling, I guess I expected everyone to be very competitive; and we are, but not in a negative, catty way. Everyone has been amazing, supportive and helpful. We celebrate each others' successes and AJ: What are your goals for the future? when we're less than successful, we help each other grow and improve.

Cat: My goal is to keep having fun! I tend to dabble, trying anything and AJ: What's in store for your future in SL everything. I don't see that changing and modeling? anytime soon. More classes are definitely in my future as well.

Cat: I expect my future will contain more of the same; I'll continue to DJ, AJ: What is your favorite type of raise money for charity, and dabble fashion styling to do and why? in print, runway and live modeling. My dear friend Popper has given me the Cat: I'm not sure I have a favorite. Many opportunity to try my hand at voice of the genres are first times for me, so hosting and directing a couple fashion researching them is part of the fun. I shows, so I'm now learning that aspect can tell you the genre I've had the most of the fashion industry as well. I'm trouble with was Androgynous. It was having too much fun to make any major well outside my comfort zone, but in changes! styling it I again learned a lot not only about the genre, but about myself.

AJ: Thanks so much! We wish you continued success!

AJ: What else do you like to do in SL besides modeling?

Cat: I've been DJ'ing for almost the whole time I've been in SL. Music is one of my passions and I try to keep at least a couple sets a week, no matter how busy I get with other things. I have several charities I support in SL too.

50

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Competitions & Awards - Catalysis

- Steampunk Styling Challenge - Model's Workshop - Winner June 2017 - Mr & Miss Model International 2017 - L'Amour Productions - 3rd Runner Up - Mr/Ms Audace 2017 - Finalist - MVW France 2017 - Miss Virtual World 2017 - Final 12 - Miss Metaverse 2016 - Finalist - MMA Runway Challenge - Winner Jul 2016 - Audace Model Of The Month - Winner May 2016 - Nautical Styling Challenge - Model's Workshop - Winner Apr 2016 L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, 2017 - 26th Pazzo Styling Challenge - L'Amour Productions - 1st Runner Up August Mar 2016 - Mr & Miss Model International 2016 - L'Amour Productions - Top 10 Females

51

People & Community

Infinite Exposure Photography

By Ava Jhamin

Sometimes you find amazing people in their field by accident and sometimes you find through friends. Well, Infinite Exposure is the brain child of Matt Iron (jaernskaegg) and Acelynn Fae. They came to L'Amour through the amazing relationship with Matt and our own "resident everything" Rienna Iron.

It takes a lot to impress this old bird with photography but these two hit the marks on all areas. While they both do an amazing job in all areas

52

of photography, Matt enjoys subject photography and Acelynn prefers panoramas. Together they make an amazing team. I am happy and pleased to announce also, a collaboration between L'Amour Diversity Magazine and Infinite Exposure Photography.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Matt and Acelynn to get their amazing story first hand. So readers of L'Amour Diversit sit back get some munchies and something to drink and enjoy the read.

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Ava: How did you both come to be in Second Life ?

Matt: An old friend of mine told me to try out DJing in SL so I did.

photography so here we are. Also we both would walk through hell and back for each other.

Acelynn: I have always loved doing photos on SL, and Matt asked me to Acelynn: I watched a documentary on it join him in starting this. It's something and thought it would be fun, so I gave it we both enjoy so we decided to bring a try and I've been glued since :) our passion for photos out for others to enjoy.

Ava: And can you please tell the readers of Diversity, what brought you both to Ava: What inspires you both in your this friendship and collaboration with photography work in Second Life?

Infinite Exposure Photography?

Matt: I just go with the flow......

Matt: Acelynn one of my oldest and closest friends in SL. We both enjoy Acelynn: Really anything can, I love to L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

53

explore and see the beautiful things that Matt: I do people, and add some spice people come up with. Each new place to it with different avatars, adding has something that can spark a fire for dinos. monsters, animals and such. a new picture.

Acelynn: Scenery is one of my favorite Ava: Tell me what you both started to things to photograph, I enjoy working do when you came to Second Life? with people. Love doing photos with Matt: DJing, thats about all I did for first multiple people, bring everything half a year in SL. together for that little wonderful look that makes a photo grab your attention.

Acelynn: Exploring, then I learned about sailing and driving. both excellent ways Ava: There are so many photographers

to see other sims and beautiful areas.

Ava: Can you tell the readers how the Infinite Photography is different from other on the grid?

Matt: We're the best around.

Acelynn: We listen to customer, their wants, needs and expectations. Once we know what they are wanting we begin bringing their vision to life in our photos.

Ava: What kind of photography are you both specialized in?

54

in Second Life now. How is Infinite going to set them selves apart?

Matt: We provide a professional environment where we listen to our customers as well as we provide our own opinions to ensure the pictures gives the best possible outcome.

Acelynn: we are great at taking what someone envisions in their mind and bringing it to life. Adding our own little touches to the photo to make it a special moment the customer will cherish.

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Ava: Can you tell the readers what kind of photography that you will be doing?

Ava: Where do you see Infinite Exposure in the next few years?

Matt: Hopefully all over the place.

Matt: Everything needed. Be it photos of a sim or profile. Staged pictures, Acelynn: I'd say anywhere that someone model pictures, picture series. Whatever needs a photo. It's a passion of ours and needs done. we aren't going away lol Acelynn: Wow, so many types of photos people do on here. Profile pics, couples, events likes weddings. really I'll do most pictures except morphs. I like to bring the beauty of SL in my photos and morphs take that out.

Thank you so much both of you for sitting down with me and telling me a bit about your business and life on Second Life. Thank you again for such a nice interview experience for me.

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

55

56

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

57

58

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

59

The Chi

A Break Away from the Aver

60

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

ickmob

rage “Clubbing” Experience

By Rienna Iron

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

61

Last spring, through a happy series of accidents, I discovered the amazing group of people who comprise the Chickmob. These guys and gals, the guys being the "Chick Roosters," get together and move as one cohesive unit from club to club 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their wonderful founder, AbigailPoe, agreed to share some of her history and the history of the Chickmob with us. AbigailPoe, or Abi as

62

she is known to her friends, came into SL "quite by accident, I stumbled upon it; I read a newspaper article about it."

She started the Chickmob one evening late in December 2016. She was at Ambrosia and "bored out of my mind.

On a whim I asked a girl if she would HUD dance with me; to my surprise she said yes. It was fun so I invited a few more who were at the club; we got a group chat going and had a blast. It was

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

such a great experience that I decided to create a group for women dedicated to HUD dancing and chatting."

themed events every month at mob friendly clubs. Abi tells us that most clubs "absolutely love the Chickmob and are very welcoming." We typically Abi says that "the Chickmob is all about have 10-20 people show up at a time empowering women and camaraderie. for most events. House of V was the My experience has been that it is not first major SL club to organize an official that easy for women to form friendships monthly event for the Chickmob. She with other women in SL. At the end of states, "They advertise it to their the day we don't have a lofty agenda. membership and there is always a It's just a forum for all women to theme. We have just established a communicate, form friendships and similar relationship with Habibi and dance." The Chickmob has several Skybar. It's a wonderful model and we

hope to replicate it at other happening clubs." Another regular event is their monthly "Eclectic Eargasm." Abi explains, "it's where we invite three female DJs from our ranks to spin an hour each. They pick the music and theme and everyone gets dressed up.

We have had three wonderful Jazz events at the fabulous Mercury Room and plan to do more."

Want to know how to join in the fun

yourself? Abi says it's simple! "Anyone can join. There is a nominal $L10 fee and if anyone doesn't have the money, either I or one of the other ladies is always happy to help. One can simply search for the group and join." Contrary to what the name would suggest, Chickmob is not solely for chicks; however, the guys do maintain their own official group separate from the original.

Abi tells us, "We have a companion group called the ChickMob Roosters for

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

63

our male friends. The Roosters get all event notices, get invited when we are out dancing and participate in our group chats when we dance."

On a more personal level, Abi says that her favorite thing about SL is "the great friendships that I have forged over the years. The Chickmob has amplified that aspect of SL for me greatly."

She tells us her satisfaction in having a successful group such as the Chickmob in Second Life lies in "the pure joy that women experience when they first discoverer the group. That is my fuel and I am as motivated about the Chcikmob as ever." Abi loves SL and would not change anything about it.

Abi gives us insight as to what a day as a Chickmob member might be like: "You would typically end up going to a Chickmob that someone has organized, chat, dance, and hopefully make new friends. Occasionally you would get costumed up to go to a themed event."

64

She shared a funny story with us that "once I was dancing at a club with a dozen Chcikmobbers. A woman I was chatting with thought they were all my alts."

Abi's plans for the future of the Chickmob are "to grow it; to establish relationships with more great clubs and to continue to keep the group easygoing and fun." Abi would like for Diversity readers to know what she feels is one of the best things about the Chickmob, "the camaraderie is what it is all about. It has re-energized my SL for sure and I hear that sentiment from many."

In her own words, "Come join us :) You will have fun and make great friends."

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Bunnygun Go The Man Behind Bu

By Rienna Iron

ourdou Koray unnygun’s Gearbox

About a year ago, I was in need of a custom pose for a photo I wanted to have done and at the time, no one I knew made them. So, I did what many people in need of something specialized would do, I searched "Places" for "custom poses." What to my wondering eyes did appear, but "Bunnygun's Gearbox" at the very top of the list.

I immediately thought, "Bunnygun... what kind of name is that?" Of course a search of "Places" only allows you to teleport and show the map..so putting two and two together, I decided to give a search in "People" for the name Bunnygun and lo and behold, the name Bunnygun Gourdou appeared.

I noticed he had been on SL for 9 years, which as an old time SL'er myself, immediately made me trust his abilities a little more than I would have if he were new to SL. Sorry new people, it's just the way we are, we're a tight knit crew and we trust each other more for our longevity. ♥‿♥ Aaanyyywayyyy, I sent him a message telling him what I needed and awaited his response. He responded

72

very quickly and we went to meet with Bunny. I can tell you that we hired him to make our pose for us, and he did a phenominal job!

Over the last year, Bunny and I have become friends and gotten to know each other a bit and I've learned that Bunny is not only a great pose maker, but he also builds great bikes, bred Meeroos successfully for about three years before the market tanked and he chose to take a break, and he builds incredibly detailed buildings. He was hired to build an SL version of the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater that was exact to the original down to the smallest detail.

So, naturally, when thinking about what articles I wanted to include in my part of this month's L'Amour Diversity magazine, I decided I would like to share my friend Bunnygun Gourdou Koray with the readers of Diversity.

Bunny came to Second Life almost ten years ago because of "the limitless

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

creativity that's available and the chance to meet interesting people from around the world." Bunny enjoys many creative outlets in SL such as building - "pretty much anything (I get all sorts of requests!!)," landscaping, making poses, photography, making and manipulating textures and some minor scripting. He tells us that, "As soon as I tried playing with prims, I was hooked, it just seemed so easy and the possibilities seemed endless. Being a creative person, it opened up a whole world of opportunity."

make money then make sure to find out everything about the animal you're going to breed, and expect to spend time and money to get to a level where people will want to buy your animals. It can be very frustrating at times!"

Bunny really enjoys sim hopping and going to events, he says "I see so many different ideas at work that i want to then try my own!" I asked Bunny what would be the downside of owning a business in SL for him and he told me, "People copybotting your creations, it doesn't happen very often but is very annoying when it does happen!" On the flipside, he told me that his greatest satisfaction in owning an SL business comes from, "making enough money to pay tier and go shoppping in SL, it's very nice when you make enough to be able to download cash to your RL bank account."

Even though he no longer breeds those cute little Meeroos that ooo and coo at you, he offers a piece of advice to those interested in dipping their toe into the ocean of available breedables in SL, "find an animal or creature that you think is cute, lovable, interesting or intriguing so it will hold your interest over a long period of time. Do it because you love doing it. If your intention is to Bunny tells us a bit about the bikes he

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

73

makes. He states that, "my bikes are very highly detailed, I'm a bit OCD when it comes to details! They're well tested, I like to tweak the scripts until the bike behaves like it should! I do custom work.

People ask me to make a bike for them, I ask for pictures where possible and then I go about building it for them.

Quite often people just want a minor change on one of the bikes in my shop, different number plate or colors, MC patches added to the tank etc."

ride and handled well, she knows more than I do!! I asked him what his favorite thing he'd ever built in SL was and he said, "That's a hard one to answer......

I love my bikes, I've done a few big builds, my favorite would be Arlington Memorial Amphitheater, it was quite a challenge to build and keep land impact to a minimum. It gets well used by ex servicemen and that gives me a lot of satisfaction."

I was curious how building in SL has I happen to own two of Bunny's bikes changed over the years and if that myself and I can tell you, they are great! had been challenging for Bunny as the The Road Captain for my MC tried one years have gone on. He told me, "Well and said that it was a very easy bike to we used to use prims and "sculpties"

74

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

for building up until the mesh was introduced into SL. Sculpties were horrible because you had to make one texture that covered the whole thing, whereas now a mesh has up to 8 texturable faces making it a lot easier to create very life-like textures."

When asked what he enjoys most in Second Life, Bunny tells us, "the endless ability to be surprised by people's avatars and on a serious note the creativity!" For the "unusual SL story" question, Bunny shared, "I've been asked to build all sorts of strange stuff from penis extensions to all the equipment a maternity home uses, it's always interesting!" There's not much Bunny would change about his SL experience, but he responded if he had to pick something, it would be "lag and loading times I guess, i hate going to a laggy sim and trying to move only to see your av move a few minutes later!!!"

likes to "hang out with my girlfriend and friends, go dancing, play games and sometimes we'll all watch a movie together!"

I asked him what his plans were for the future of Bunnygun's Gearbox and he told me, "I have a ton of bikes I want to build and would like to open a bike parts shop in the near future. I'm also interested to see how Sansar does now that it's open to the public although I can't see me leaving SL." Bunny markets his services by placing ads on the MP, he has a classified ad in the local search and he uses some ad boards at a few biker bars and clubs.

Bunny shares that in his spare time he

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

75

76

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

77

78

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

79

80

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

81

Are We Good Stewards Of Our Planet?

By: Ava Jhamin

I am obsessed with wanting to take care of our planet. I know that God has a plan for us. I believe what the Bible says, and it states God commanded us to keep and care for the earth. But God's edict to have dominion over the earth does not mean to have complete domination and exploitation of it.

to cultivate which is from the Hebrew word abad meaning “to serve” so Genesis 2:15 would better read as: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to serve it and to guard and protect it.” That means that we are stewards of the earth and the Master will require of us an account on how Genesis 2:15 The Lord God took the man we've been stewards of what He has given us. So far, it's not been good and put him in the Garden of Eden to stewardship to say the least.

work it and keep it.

I believe God will not leave those God gave mankind a command and unpunished who destroy the earth, told him that he must tend or keep the because those who do so are only garden. The Hebrew word for tend or as interested in using and abusing the some translations say, keep is shamar earth to make a profit. But at what and it means more than just keep it cost? We all are responsible for how neat and tidy. The Hebrew word means we live our lives, and if we throw trash “to guard” or “to watch and protect.” The out of the car, leave trash in campsites other Hebrew word in this verse that's or pour out toxic waste on the ground, very important, is the word work or as can we really say we are being good some translations more accurately say, stewards? Years ago, our neighbor used

82

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

to pour his used motor oil on the fence line so that he wouldn't have to use the weed eater where the mower wouldn't reach. But his trees started to die and he ended up having to cut down two huge 100 year old trees in his back yard. How sad.

Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.�

You may ask yourself, "What's a healthy planet got to do with me?" The answer is simple. We need the natural world for our survival, it is a partnership. Some of the reasons we depend on nature are obvious: we use animals and plants for food. The Madagascar Periwinkle plant is used in the treatment of Leukemia.

Aspirin comes from the bark of a willow Proverbs 27:18 Whoever tends a fig tree tree, while Quinine, the best-known antiwill eat its fruit, and he who guards malarial drug, is made from the bark his master will be honored. - NIV of Cinchona trees. And that's just for BibleGateway - on line http://www. starters: up to half the world's people biblegateway.com depend mainly on plants for health care.

More than half the top 150 medicines in With this said, I personally believe that we are at a critical point with the planet the United States come from chemicals in plants and animals and other natural earth. Are we being good stewards of our planet? Let's not just blindly believe resources from many countries. the propaganda or misconceptions of global warming which to me seems like Bees pollinate fruit and vegetables, helping to put food on our plates, it too much science and not enough of doesn't stop there. Vital to most life let's just take what is and fix it. on the planet, including humans, are healthy ecosystems. An ecosystem is a Economists have estimated that community of living things. nature's goods and services are worth God gave mankind dominion over the earth but not in order to use or misuse it at any cost, for any reason. We have destroyed many areas of the planet to suit our own needs and this earth must groan under the weight of the ravaging and pillaging of the planet.

$33 trillion USD per year. That's more than the annual turnover of the entire global economy. Disappearing acts: logging, pollution, industrial agriculture and over-fishing are contributing to rates of extinctions not seen since the dinosaurs.

Ecosystems act like life-support machines. Forests absorb pollutants; soils filter water; bacteria in the ground help to decompose dead plants and animals, providing nourishment for crops to grow. Nature is not only a thing of

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

83

beauty; it provides for us too.

Climate change healthy ecosystems also help in the fight against dangerous climate change. Take the peat swamps in the Indonesian province of Riau.

These store 15 billion tons of carbon "the equivalent of global greenhouse gas emissions for one whole year." Yet human activity is wrecking the natural world which in turn affects its ability to support us. One in four mammals and one in eight birds could soon vanish.

There are now fewer mountain gorillas in the wild than players in the American NFL, that is just beyond sad.

for raw materials; wood, for example, is needed for furniture, construction and paper. While there's nothing wrong with wanting the goods that give us a decent standard of living, the trouble is we are using too much, all this puts huge strain on the natural world. We are also throwing too much away, especially for the United States, we are one of the worst offenders of waste. But if each family does their part to make it better, globally, we will begin taking care of that which God made us the stewards.

The more that goes in the bin, the more materials we need for new things So what can I do about all this? Urgent and the more energy we burn making action is needed, but if we bring them. What happens to all our waste? pressure on governments, we can Every time degradable products are protect the world we rely on. We've buried in landfills, greenhouse gases are shown that when enough of us get given off as they decompose. Burning together, politicians sit up and listen. waste isn't a solution either, because We want to change the world by incinerators release more carbon dioxide changing politics. Our now President, than gas burning power stations.There Donald Trump turns a blind eye and says has been progress, however, following the state of the earth is all bahoogie. a campaign by Friends of the Earth, With a man that doesn't ever know councils now provide doorstep recycling. facts in charge, be scared people.

But it could be better, the UK recycles around a third of their household Less is more for the planet. What can rubbish, whereas in Flanders, Belgium, we do to protect our precious natural for example, the figure is above 70%. world? It's a huge question, but let's Recycling is only the start, we need to look at where we have some direct stop the destruction of the planet's life impact. Everytime we buy something support systems "especially the world's in the store, we are creating a demand great forests and the things that are

84

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

causing it such as bio-fuel production and industrial agriculture."

5,000 of them in their lifetime. Birds are essential for keeping down insect pest populations too. Thousands of plant I am not suggesting we stop buying species need insects such as bees for things, instead, we need eco-friendly pollination, meaning they can reproduce choices to be more affordable and and make more plants. Around a third of easier to make. Better regulation of the the world's food crops rely on animals sale of tropical hardwoods, for example, for reproduction. would help to preserve rain forests. We are campaigning for better recycling, Earthworms are among many creatures too, pressing governments and councils vital to soil fertility. Their tunnels bring to improve facilities and increase oxygen into the soil to keep it healthy. recycling rates. The more that is reused Worms also help to break down dead or recycled, the less strain on resources plants, which enriches the earth and and the less greenhouse gases emitted. means more plants can grow to feed us.

It's a win-win situation. Societal waste Natural air conditioners, green spaces in and the creation of new things all the cities keep down summer temperatures. time puts a huge strain on the natural Trees, oceans and grasslands not only world. help cool the planet, but are important for removing pollutants as are some Soil helps to clean water, as do dams creatures. Tiny plankton absorb built by beavers, filtering it as it dissolved carbon dioxide from the seas flows through them and removing to make their skeletons. This carbon pollutants. Such is their importance is buried in sediments when they die, that some water companies are looking locked underground instead of being at reintroducing beavers to the UK released into the atmosphere. countryside. Who needs expensive chemical pesticides when nearly all Some companies argue that farming crop pests have a natural enemy? should become more intensive and Ladybugs love nothing better than use genetically modified (GMO) crops, aphids for dinner, and will eat around resistant to pests and disease. Friends of the Earth has campaigned to keep GMO out of farming in this country, saying there are dangers of crosscontamination with non-GMO plants, creating super-weeds that need even more chemicals to keep them under control.

Animals in factory farms need huge amounts of protein to grow quickly, and typically this comes from feed made from soy beans. Most soy is from South America, where big business is clearing rain forests and grassland to grow it. This releases carbon stored in the trees and reduces the amount of carbon dioxide that can be absorbed.

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

85

Not only are some of the world's richest habitats being lost, it's making climate change worse. One of the solutions to these global problems, is radical reform of the way we produce food. At the moment the government uses taxpayers' money to subsidize factory farms. This would be better used supporting smaller farms that rear animals less intensively, and help to develop a market for locally grown feed.

A healthy planet is not possible unless we tackle the destruction of the world's great habitats, oceans, forests, grasslands and wetlands. All are vital for human survival. Take forests, for example, in the tropics, such areas are home to more than half the wildlife that lives on land. One fifth of the Earth's population relies on forests in some way for essentials such as food and fresh water; these people include the poorest on Earth. Why do forests

matter? Because forests absorb carbon dioxide, helping to stabilize the climate.

They help prevent soil erosion and in coastal communities, act as a buffer from severe weather, yet they're disappearing. In South America the expansion of soy plantations and cattle ranches are the major reasons for forest destruction. In South East Asia the main culprit is the palm oil industry.

Palm oil appears in many products such as biscuits and ice cream. It is also used as biofuel for cars and lorries. Biofuels are promoted as a renewable form of energy, but they can be more damaging to the climate than oil.

Don't take people's words or propaganda you see....Look and research for yourself. Then ask yourself, "What can I and my family do to protect and be good stewards of the planet".

Resources in no particular order: http://www.foe.com/uk http://www.wikihow.com/Help-Save-the-Earth https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/ocean/earthday.html https://www.scribd.com/document/6378292/101-Ways-to-Help-Planet-Earth https://www.makeourplanetgreatagain.fr/ https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/01/climate/trump-paris-climate-agreement.html

86

Issue 13 August, 2017 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Need half page ad

L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 13, August 2017

87

lamourproductions.org

CREATIVE ACKNOWLEDGMENTS GRAPHICS Magazine Layout by Rienna Iron PHOTOGRAPHY Photos by Trinity Aironaut (34-43) Photos by Rienna Iron (original graphic 32, 66-67, 69) Photos by AcelynnFae (cover, 11, 16-20, 46-47, 49) Photos by Matt Iron (4, 48-49, 64-65, 68) Photos submitted by Chickmob members (54-58) Submitted by Karin Deuttmann 10 OTHER IMAGES http://pronto-digital.com/images/Environmental_Responsibility.jpg http://restoringeden.org/images/treatsticker http://wallpaperswide.com/sky_clouds-wallpapers.html https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/ AAEAAQAAAAAAAAflAAAAJDEyZmFiZGMyLTAwNTMtNDY3MS1iYzU1LWJlZjNiZDY0Y2RkOA.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/2f/ff/3d/2fff3d40c02a61709fc62d91bb01a581.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/59/5d/8a/595d8ae4c8b8dd890036bdb5148fd0c3-military-inspired-fashion-military-fashion.jpg http://vftla.org/sites/default/files/image_258.jpg http://www.fifty-five-plus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/charity.jpg https://www.fraudadvisorypanel.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Social-media-shared-image-2.jpg https://thirdsector.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/SVA.jpg http://www.ambach.com/site/assets/files/1004/photo_sustainability.jpg

L’Amour Diversity Magazine

Advertising Special!!!

Choose L'Amour Diversity for your advertising needs.

The following are the advertising packages for ads within the magazine utilizing your own artwork (see specifications for each package). If you would like us to create your ad, please request that from Ava Jhamin, who will schedule that for you at an additional cost.

PLATINUM LEVEL $L5,000 / Issue

$L4,000 / Issue

Full-Page Ad (full spread)

Full-Page Ad (full spread)

•

Bi-monthly 6 issues/year.

•

Size: 2048W x 1536H (72 dpi)

GOLD LEVEL

• Bi-monthly 6 issues/year.

• Size: 2048W x 1536H (72 dpi)

Includes your logo on

•

L'Amour Productions

website

Package does not include website advertising.

lamourproductions.org.

Get 1 Ad FREE if paid up front 1 year $L25,000.

::NOTE:: These are special pricing packages for L'Amour Diversity Magazine, which means if you purchase NOW you are locked in at this price for consecutive future issues.

If you cease to run your ad for even one month, the pricing specials will no longer be in effect.

SILVER LEVEL $L3,000 / Issue

BRONZE LEVEL $L1,500 / Issue

1/2-Page Ad (single page)

1/4-Page Ad

• Bi-monthly 6 issues/year.

• Bi-monthly 6 issues/year.

• Size: 1024W x 1536H

• Size: 512W x 768H

(72 dpi)

(72 dpi)

Package does not include

Package does not include

website advertising.

website advertising.

IMPORTANT All ads must be PAID IN FULL at the time of ordering to reserve your spot immediately!

ALL FUNDS MUST BE PAID TO AVA JHAMIN. Please include a message in the payment details text box indicating what the payment is for (LEVEL/ MONTH/BUSINESS NAME). Your ad must have your store or brand name included in the title. Unless told otherwise we will use the same ad issue.

Contact Ava Jhamin with questions.

lamourproductions.org