Beautiful April 2017

Beautiful

April 2017 Issue 4

EXCLUSIVE:

The Farmer

& the Belle

MISSIONS Spotlight

D ES TI N ATI O N: S U M M E R VACATION THROUGH THE LENS of a World Changer

Fashion & Fun Photo by Kim D. White, CAP-OM

Exclusive Sneak Peek:

OFW

ORLANDO FASHION WEEK

The Farmer

& The Belle

Begins on Page 10

Photography by K Kalista

Hello Beautiful,

As summer vacation is quickly approaching, having the chance to break away from everyday life is at the top of so many people’s summer to-do list. Whether you are going on a road trip, traveling abroad or camping at your local park, this summer just take a few days to escape, clear your mind and clear your plate.

No matter where you work or what you do everyone needs to take a break from their normal routine. Students have it made with being given two months of freedom every summer. As working adults, we do not necessarily get that luxury but everyone of us does have an amount of free time in the mix somewhere to take a break and take a vacation. I promise, if you look hard enough, it is there.

For my hard core workaholics, BOSS types, the world is not going to fall apart if you take a v acation or a break. Many things actually have the opportunity to fall together when we step away and let things happen naturally. Not only will nature have its way but you will get the opportunity to regroup and rest up. When you give your mind, soul and body an opportunity to rest, you become like a new person: rejuvenated, refreshed and living with new vision and insight.

For those that are working hard but having a hard time squirreling away money to go on a vacation, start thinking outside of the box. Vacation does not have to be thousands of dollars. I have made getaways on less than $100.

Whatever you do, just take a break from life and enjoy moments with special friends and family this summer. This time can never be given back to you. Treasure it, beautiful.

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CONTENTS

EXCLUSIVE: The Farmer & the Belle

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THROUGH THE LENS

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of a World Changer Destination:

Summer Vacation What’s In Your Suitcase?

Living Your Design

ADVENTURE TO

the Netherlands

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page

Photo by Blake Cason, Israel Layout by Olivia Walls

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/

Day Trip to Wilmington, NC

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MISSIONS SPOTLIGHT

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The Rhema Project

Experince The

Holy Land

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A New Kind of 116 Cinema: La La Land TRAVEL in

STYLE page

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Photo by Wendy Laine

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April 2017

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Beautiful Editors

Karissa Hagemeister Editor in Chief IG @karissaluvhagemeister FB: Karissa Hagemeister Twitter: khluv

Karissa Hagemeister is on a life long journey in the pursuit of love, beauty and truth. Not only does she want to discover these things for herself but she desires to share them with anyone willing to watch and listen. Beautiful was birthed out of this desire. She enjoys modeling, acting and singing. She has her own fashion line and partners her business with a jewelry line, Chloe + Isabel. In July of 2016, Karissa published her first book. Her future plans include but are not limited to, obtainging a doctorate in psychology from an esteemed university, as well as taking over and Photography by K Kalista completely revamping the fashion industry with the love, truth and beauty that she discovers by both her fashion business and Beautiful magazine.

Special Thanks to: Dance 2 Inspire Chris Sellers Art

OFW: Orlando Fashion Week

LuLaRoe

By Amanda & Shannon

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Front Cover Design by Olivia Walls Back Cover Design by Michelle Rivera

Courtney Floyd Special Feature Story

Hey, there! My name is Courtney Floyd and I’m currently in my last year at Southeastern University, working on a Bachelors Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with minors in Business as Mission and Spanish.

My dream is to start a church in the Netherlands, as well as, creating a coffee shop to build relationships with those who may not be interested or are nervous about going to church.

There’s a long explanation behind this dream, and it would blow your mind in how God is continually piecing things together. I have come to realize though, that I could never be happy if I did not at least attempt to work and see this dream become a reality. I guess that’s what you call ‘passion.’ When I’m not traveling, I’m probably doing Pilates at the Balance Culture, eating tacos with friends, or spending my day serving at Grace City Church.

I’m an outgoing-introvert who drinks too much coffee, enjoys writing, but most of all, enjoys hearing other people’s stories. I’m also random at times. For instance, my comfort food is grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup, my favorite accessory is my Daniel Wellington watch, and I’m a big fan of Star Wars. None of those are related, but they all give you a little more perspective on who I am!

My hope to you is that you find what you’re passionate about; what drives you, and go after it wholeheartedly.

Jackie Cullum Missions Moment

Jackie Cullum is 26, a wife, mom, and student. She is also the incoming Chairperson for the Missions Committee at Aldersgate United Methodist Church.

She is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and will graduate in April from Saint Leo University. Jackie obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Southeastern University. She plans on using her degrees in the missions field oversees. Her passion is children. She wants to work with orphans by planting orphanages to help get children off of the streets and provide them with an education so that they can have a brighter future.

Published by Kingdom Dezigns, Inc. Layout by Olivia Walls

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Yahaira Morales Leadership Coach

Yahaira is passionate about creating transformational leadership development experiences that last beyond a life time. But she gets a bigger charge out of helping people connect with their unique divine design and fulfilling their purpose in life. Since 1995, she has been equipping and empowering others to live their lives by design so that they can tap into their infinite potential and fulfill their life’s unique mission. She has served as a leadership trainer, facilitator, and consultant for several nonprofits, start up companies and organizations, small business owners, entrepreneurs, churches, and numerous diverse groups. (Read more about Yahaira in Living Your Design).

Kayla Kapp Stylist

Kayla graduated from Southeastern University with a degree in Marketing and is currently working as a marketing coordinator at the Winter Haven Hospital. Kayla is certified through the Athletics Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and is an avid gym goer! This northern girl has been involved in group fitness from a young age playing basketball, soccer, and softball.

Kayla is an instructor at a fitness studio in Florida called Balance Culture. You will most likely find Kayla shopping, reading, and enjoying a venti coffee. She loves finding the latest trends in fashion and helping other women invest in their wardrobe for less.

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The Editor would like to say a special thank you to all that contributed to this issue of Beautiful:

THANK YOU Writers:

Photographers:

Erin Givens Aaron Williams Anna Harvey

Samantha Taylor Antwan Haynes Emilio Roman Josiah Richwine Blake Cason Kim White

Creative Designers: Olivia Walls Xiomara Montalvo Michelle Rivera Casie Hoffman Samantha Taylor

Special Features: Jason Old Courtney Floyd Jenn Gotzon

“The Farmer & The Belle�

Layout by Olivia Walls

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Exclusive Sneak Peek:

The Farmer

& The Belle

The scene is set for the perfect romance story of a lifetime. Jim E.Chandler (the farmer) meets Jenn Gotzon (the Belle) while she is stranded over the holidays at a pig farm. Jenn plays a New York City supermodel that finds a chance at true love at the unlikeliest of places in “The Farmer & The Belle.”

By Karissa Hagemeister

“The Farmer & The Belle” began filming March 17,2017 at Jenn and Jim’s actual wedding. This comedy/family film will feature their actual wedding kiss and is based off from their true love story. Along with several special guest appearances, the movie is being produced by an award winning team with many Oscar nominations. The DP was Kacper Skowron from LA, the second unit camera was operated by John Demers and the drone camera was under the control of Rich Goodwyn. Principal photography for the film is scheduled for fall of this year. Over the Christmas season last year, they filmed some sneak peek footage in New York City. This footage includes a horse wearing a pink onesie that matches Belle Winter’s dress, shot in front of the Flat Iron building and ending with a beautiful reunion of the farmer finding Belle.

March 17th marked Jenn and Jim’s wedding day and it also served as the day for the majority of the film production to occur.

For the wedding and the film, there were several wedding dress designers that created dresses for

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Jenn (the bride) both for the ceremony and the reception, as well as for the bridesmaids.

The Bride’s Tailor, Jeannette Martinez, specially designed and custom-made the gown for the ceremony. Dalia MacPhee designed the dress for the reception. Bridesmaid dresses and sunflower girls dresses were designed by Dalia MacPhee (green dresses), LaRae Wilson (yellow dresses), and Shannon Chandler (sunflower dresses).

Three of the designers have just finished creating dresses for the Oscars. The photography, Leah Marie Photography & Stationary, is an award winning wedding photography company hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina. On set, there was also a top celebrity makeup artist from China.

“The Farmer & The Belle” is sure to be the perfect holiday comedy as the release date is set for Thanksgiving 2018. In conjunction with the release of the film, there will also be several products in fashion, skin care and beauty, as well as a game to usher in the love shared by the beautiful couple and the joy of the holiday season.

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A little background on the starring lovers: Jenn Gotzon and Jim E. Chandler, they can both be found in over 10 recent films together, such as “The Colors of Emily” (2015), “My Daddy’s in Heaven,” and “Saving Faith” (will be released by Lionsgate soon) where they star as love interests. Jenn Gotzon is an award winning actress as well as an international cover model.

She has been a special guest on “Reba,” she was the leading lady in “God’s Country” (2012) and performed in “Love Different,” “Doonby,” and “God’s Not Dead 2” (2016). She played President Nixon’s daughter in “Frost/Nixon.”

“Frost/Nixon” was nominated for five Oscars. “God’s Country,” “Doonby,” and “Love Different” all won awards. Jim E. Chandler has appeared on numerous TV shows, such as “Grave Secrets” and “Game of Silence.” He landed his first feature role in “Abraham Lincoln vs Zombies” (2012).

Their story is truly amazing and the beauty of God’s love is evident. We look forward to the release of

The Farmer

&

The Belle

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(2018)

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@dbrownin88

@wedance2inspire88 Layout by Samantha Taylor

Through the

Lens

Layout by Karissa Hagemeister

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of a World Changer

By Jason Old

NazarĂŠ, Portugal

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Bottom: Havana, Cuba Top Right: East Java, Indonesia Bottom Right: Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia

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Top: East Java, Indonesia Bottom: La Libertad, El Salvador Top Right: Trinidad, Cuba Bottom Right: East Java, Indonesia

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Top: Ubud, Bali Botton:Mรกlaga, Spain Right: La Paz, Bolivia

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Berlengas Islands, Portugal

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Top: East Java, Indonesia Top Right: Old Havana, Cuba Bottom Right: Uyuni, Bolivia

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Top Left: East Java, Indonesia Bottom Left: Boquete, Panama Above: Volcano Mombacho, Nicaragua

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Madrid, Spain

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Right: Uyuni, Bolivia Left: Ometepe Island, Nicaragua

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Volacno Mombatcho, Nicaragua

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Top Left: Roatan, Honduras Bottom Left: Agadir, Morocco Right: Cรณrdoba, Spain

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Volcano Masaya, Nicaragua

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Top Left: Quarzazate, Morocco Bottom Left: Old Havana, Cuba Top Right: Old Havana, Cuba Bottom Right: Old Havana, Cuba

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Top: Cabrera, Dominican Republic Bottom Right: East Java, Indonesia Bottom Left: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Top Left: Leon, Nicaragua Bottom Left: Norway Top Right: Geiranger Fjord, Norway Bottom Right: Ometepe, Nicaragua

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Top Left: Old Havana, Cuba Bottom Left: Old Havana Cuba Right: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Currituck County, North Carolina (Photo Credit: Justin Old)

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Las LeĂąas, Argentina

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Top: Old Havana, Cuba Bottom: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Top: Uyuni, Bolivia Bottom: Norway

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Tola, Nicaragua (Photo credit: Tony Zacharek)

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Jason

Old

Jason Old is a Spanish and Latin American Studies professor at Southeastern University, a Ph.D. student in History at the University of South Florida, Tampa, and the founder of Anthrotourist Travel. He is also the founder of The SurfShare, an international surf-travel social networking platform, as well as CAN Futbol Foundation, a sport and development nonprofit organization that uses soccer to promote education and sustainable development in Roatan, Honduras. His field of expertise is in Latin American culture, Latin American film, Latin American Left-wing Liberation Movements and Revolutions and U.S. Interventions in the region. He speaks English and Spanish fluently and has over 20 years of international travel experience, which includes visiting almost every Spanish speaking country in the world. Jason has traveled the entire island of Cuba and has a wide ranging understanding of Cuba, its culture, its history and its people. His most recent book is titled, Cuba: Behind the Embargo, which is an ethnographic reflection of his observations while traveling Cuba in 2013.

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This Summer, Take a Hike ...

Or a Ride

Photo Credit Josiah Richwine

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Destination: S

Sweden

Sweden

Sw Ireland

Italy

California

Hawaii

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We asked where you wanted to go, and this is what you said:

Summer Vacation Facebook Poll

weden France

Northern Irag Tibet, China Switzerland Deng Feng, China

Israel Egypt

Mount Misen, Japan

India

Australia New Zealand

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Layout Design by Samanatha Taylor

Destination Vacati

Barcelona, Spain Kim D. White

Switzerland Heidelberg, Germany Kim D. White

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ion: Photo Gallery Layout Design by Samanatha Taylor

Ghana

Blake Cason

Kim D. White

Orlando, FL

Josiah Richwine

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Orlando, FL

Josiah Richwine

Dead Sea, Israel Xian, China

Karissa Hagemeister

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Las Vegas, NV Kim D. White

Blake Cason

Conzumel, Mexico Samantha Taylor

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Rome, Italy

Samantha Taylor

Spain Antigua, Guatemala Karissa Hagemeister

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Antigua, Guatemala Karissa Hagemeister

Yahaira Morales Notre Dame

Kim D. White

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Israel

Blake Cason

Israel Orlando, FL

Josiah Richwine

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Miami Beach, FL

Karissa Hagemeister

Blake Cason

Israel

Blake Cason

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Australia

Yahaira Morales

Strausbourg, France Hong Kong

Karissa Hagemeister

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Spain

Yahaira, Morales

Kim D. White

Rome, Italy

Samantha Taylor

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Ghana

Blake Cason

Ghana Great Wall of China Karissa Hagemeister

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Spain

Kim D. White

Blake Cason

Zurich, Germany Kim D. White

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Antigua, Guatemala Karissa Hagemeister

Guatemala Shanghai, China

Karissa Hagemeister

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Netherlands

Kim D. White

Karissa Hagemeister

Conzumel, Mexico Samantha Taylor

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Haiti

Blake Cason

Haiti Haiti

Blake Cason

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Hong Kong

Karissa Hagemeister

Blake Cason

Xian, China

Karissa Hagemeister

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Lantian, China

Karissa Hagemeister

Conzumel, Mexico Terracotta Warriors Xian, China Karissa Hagemeister

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Walt Disney World, FL Karissa Hagemeister

Samantha Taylor

Ecudor

Blake Cason

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Ethiopia

Blake Cason

Australia El Salvador Blake Cason

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Ghana

Blake Cason

Yahaira Morales

Israel

Blake Cason

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Chris Sellers Art

Facebook Page: Chris Sellers Art Instagram: @chrssllrsart Email: chrssllrsart@gmail.com

Layout Design by Samanatha Taylor

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Layout by Michelle Rivera

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Layout by Xiomara Montalvo Photo by Emilio Roman

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Reade

er’s Choice What do YOU leave behind?

Facebook Results are in Going Somewhere .... Don’t forget these: Toothbrush

Sunglasses

Neck pillows

Towels

Pajamas

Outfits

Sunblock

Makeup

Shampoo

Facial Cleasners

Accessories

Socks

Night Light

Phone charger 89

Adventure to the N If you were to ask someone that i

know what I am passionate about, hands-down they would say the Netherlands. I’m an introvert, but if you get me started talking about the Netherlands, it’s hard for me to stop!

This passion of mine began in high school. I was a part of a foreign exchange student program for four years. I hosted a girl in my home each year, and two of those years, I was able to stay with them.

Fast-forward to college, I started getting involved in missions. I first traveled to Argentina and then Costa Rica, which I loved, but it wasn’t them same love I had for the Netherlands. By crazy circumstances (that was clearly God), I traveled back to the Netherlands in the spring of 2016.

After that, my biggest challenge came when I felt like God was telling me to lead the trip back

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to the Netherlands. I had never been in charge of anything to this magnitude. I would be responsible for the safety of other people, for a week, 5,000 miles from home.

If you’re an introvert, you understand my anxiety with this! But, there comes a point where you push past all of that and you have to go for it.

I believe that everything I have experienced from traveling to the Netherlands four times, to the classes I’ve taken, that it all points to my dream and where God wants me.

The dream God has placed in my heart, is to pastor a church in Amsterdam and to start a coffee shop (possibly a clothing store) so that we (the people of the church) can build relationships and love those who are unsure or against going to church.

Netherlands

By Courtney Floyd Layout Design by Samanatha Taylor

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Everything we do as Christians, should point to the love of Jesus.

If you’re ever near Amsterdam in a few years, stop by and say hello! Not only could you come to church with me at Agape Church Amsterdam, but I could show you some other cool places as well!

Here are some I recommend visiting: ·

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·

· · · · ·

Over-The-Edge Swing at Amsterdam Lookout Tower Canal Cruise through the city Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum EYE Film Institute Anne Frank Museum Thrill Grill Restaurant Coffee Virus Pllek Restaurant

Of course Amsterdam isn’t the only city to go to. I also recommend Rotterdam, Zaandam, Eindhoven, and Tilburg -- all are locations I have been before and really enjoy!

“What do I wear though?!”

GREAT question. The Nether-

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lands is fairly cold most of the year, except in the summer. Rain is always a possibility, so dress warm! The best way to do this is in layers. The Dutch are practical people, but they care about their fashion. Scarves, jeans, sweaters, boots, and sneakers are the typical dress and are mainly seen in neutral colors. Make sure that whatever you have on, you are comfortable in, but can “slay” as you walk through the streets of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

I’ll be traveling back to Amsterdam this July-August for a month, so if you’d like to follow up on my adventures, feel free to contact me at cnfloyd@seu.edu and you can follow me on Instagram @courtneynfloyd

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Life is

FULL 94

of Beautiful suprises.

Photos by Antwan Haynes

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Day Trip to WILM Wilmington, North Carolina is settled on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. With streets dating to the 18th century, the town is rich with history. Wilmington blends classic Southern charm with modern entertainment and dining. The town’s central location and beautiful downtown is perfect for a day trip, and is convenient to many towns in North and South Carolina. From unique shops and restaurants to Victorian homes and historical battleships, Wilmington has destinations perfect for any interest!

EAT: Folks Cafe Start your day with coffee from Folks Cafe.

Founded in 1999, the owners of Folks pride themselves on their organic, fair trade coffee.

Order a classic coffee and have you will have your pick of several different roasts. If you want something sweeter, try their cafe mocha, which is made with spiced chocolate. Their sandwiches are great for a quick lunch.

Coastal Cupcakes For dessert, try Coastal Cupcakes on Princess Street. Coastal Cupcakes has several daily flavors like vanilla, coconut, and key lime. They change their specialty cupcakes daily, rotating flavors like pistachio and salted caramel with peppermint patty and cheesecake. Their daily menu can be viewed on their website.

Folks Cafe

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MINGTON

By: Anna Harvey Photos: Anna Harvey Layout: Casie Hoffman

Cupcakes at Coastal Cupcakes

Menu At Folks Cafe

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SHOP: The Cotton Exchange The Cotton Exchange, located on Front Street, has housed businesses since before the Civil War. Once home to a hominy and corn mill, the Cotton Exchange is now full of local businesses selling clothes, gifts, and books. Visit Just Write for unique stationary or By The Boardwalk for home decorations and hand-sewn journals. Whether you are looking for a personal souvenir or a gift for a friend, The Cotton Exchange has a variety for everyone!

to learn more about North Carolina’s naval history. Battleship NC does charge a ticketing fee, so be sure to read their website in advance.

As you leave Wilmington, take the opportunity to walk or drive through the historic homes just outside of downtown. You might recognize some of the homes from movies such as A Walk to Remember!

Old Books on Front Street Visit Old Books on Front Street to find everything from classic novels to books on North Carolina’s history. Founded in 1982, the store prides itself on selling good books for low prices. Explore the stacks and settle into one of the store’s reading nooks to enjoy your new find. Pick up a literary-themed shirt or mug to remember your visit to Old Books!

EXPLORE: Wrightsville Beach No visit to the coast would be complete without a trip to the beach! Wrightsville Beach is a short drive from downtown Wilmington and is the perfect place to relax after a busy morning. Bring your fishing pole if you want to do some pier fishing.

Battleship NC Battleship NC is a fun stop, especially if you have small children. This historic ship and World War II memorial is an interesting way

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Reading Nook at Old Books

MISSIO

Samantha Cyr, The Rhema Projec

By Jacqueline Cullum

Samantha Cyr is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut. She started her New Year by going on her very first medical missions trip. From January 20th through February 4th, 2017, she donated her time and services in Danishpet, Tamil Nadu, located in South India. Her trip was hosted by The Rhema Project. The Rhema Project is a non-profit organization whose main goal is to prevent female infanticide. In Indian culture, females are viewed as a burden. This is because a dowry is required for the women to be married. The amount of the Dowry is typically 12 times the amount of a family’s annual income. Yes, you read correctly! Very little value is placed on the female life, mainly because most people in the Indian culture do not see the future potential of females, as typically males provide for the family. Because of this, female infanticide is an epidemic that occurs amongst the impoverished and the wealthy. The impoverished will commit infanticide by drowning their baby girls, while the wealthy will seek out abortions from local clinics. This is a rampant issue that The Rhema Project works tirelessly to combat.

So how exactly does The Rhema Project combat female infanticide? First, they provide education to the Indian people, showing the local community the value of females. They do

this by providing women with a nursing education, allowing their income potential to increase substantially. The Rhema Project has partnered with Bethel AFC to secure sponsorships for females to attend Bethel Community College for nursing. According to Dan Blacketor, Director of The Rhema Project:

“A young girl’s potential income that has completed either 10th or 12th standard (high school) and does not have any col lege is approximately $350 per year for difficult working conditions. If she just completes the 1-year nursing certificate course, her income will increase to approx imately $1,200 per year and she will be employed in a hospital or clinic (much safer working conditions). If she completes the 2-year course her income will increase to $1,600 to $1,800 per year. Once Bethel switches over to the accredited degree, her income will be $2,500+.”

There are different levels of sponsorships.

Some of the women have partial sponsorships and live off campus. Others have full sponsorships and live on campus. Of the women that live off campus, some walk to school and others take the bus. According to Samantha, when she was in India she witnessed a nursing student commuting to school from the island she lived on. First

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ONS

ct

Wendy Parsons

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Wendy Parsons

Steve Widder she would take a tiny boat across the water, then she would walk to the bus stop, and finally she would take the bus for the remaining leg of the trip. While there, Samantha got to go across the river in that very boat.

Once a sponsorship is obtained, one would think that it would be easy for the Indian students to attend nursing school; however, this is not the case for most. Samantha told me that there was one student whose parents and husband did not know that she attended nursing school. She did not tell them because, being a female, they did not want her to receive an education. This student knew that by obtaining an education she would be able to better provide for her children, so she had to sneak to school every day. Samantha also told me about another student who, because of cultural practices, was going to be married to her uncle at the age of 16. In Indian culture, this was the village’s way of keeping her safe because, in their view, the longer she is unmarried, the higher her chances are of being raped. Being married would reduce this risk. This student

ended up on the steps of the nursing school, crying and begging to go to school because she did not want to go back to her village and marry her uncle. Bethel Community College granted her request and gave her a scholarship.

The student is now attending nursing school and does not have to marry her uncle because the village now sees her potential to make money.

Another way The Rhema Project prevents female infanticide is by sending their teams into approximately 50 villages to touch base with the pregnant women in those villages. The Rhema Project is very dedicated to extending their reach and, per Dan Blacketor, “Our goal is to double that number in the next two years by asking nursing graduates to help launch programs in their home village�. Their current program provides expectant and new mothers with weekly education and health classes. All pregnant women visit either a hospital or health clinic monthly for their prenatal care. To help offset any anemia present in the expectant mothers, they are given extra milk

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and vitamins daily. If the expectant mother goes on to have a baby girl, she can remain in the program and her baby will also be added to the program to receive milk. This is an incentive for the family to keep the baby girl while also relieving some of the burden brought on by having a baby girl in Indian culture. On the day of the baby girl’s birth, the team throws a celebration and gives gifts to the family, including items for the baby girl and necessities for the family. After birth, a team member will stay connected with the new mothers each week for two years. In the case where the family is still not convinced to keep the baby, Bethel AFC will work to rescue and place the baby for adoption.

community and gain respect as a direct result.

Samantha encouraged the nursing students to finish nursing school, stating that nursing school is a challenge no matter where you are.

Samantha stated that the American nurses were impressed with the Indian nursing students. Many of the American nurses did not hold jobs while completing their degree so that

While in India, Samantha visited the nursing school and talked with the nursing students about how being a nurse has had a positive impact on her life as a female and how it will have a positive impact on their lives as well. She taught the students that nursing is a self-sustaining career. She also talked about how the students can help others in the local Samantha Cyr

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Steve Widder

Steve Widder

Samantha Cyr

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they could focus on their course load. Indian nursing students, on the other hand, not only have to work while attending school, but most do not have resources like running water, transportation, electricity, the internet, etc.

This means that on top of managing their course load, most of the Indian students must walk miles to collect water every day, wash their scrubs in the river, and do their homework by candlelight or wait until the morning to complete their assignments. For those who do have electricity, blackouts are common and frequent. Moreover, most of the impoverished families live in a single room. This leaves no privacy for the nursing students to study. For Samantha, Wendy Parsons seeing how the Indian nursing students coped with the hardships of poverty and nursing school was very impressive.

Wendy Laine

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Samantha and her team also worked at a local hospital called Bethel AFC hospital, which has one physician and one dentist on site. The hospital is currently trying to establish a relationship with one of the larger hospitals in the area. Samantha and her team aided this effort by hosting a health clinic. At the health clinic, the American nurses and doctors from the larger hospitals were available to the public. The health clinic was heavily advertised and people from all over came to receive healthcare. The health clinic also gave the Indian nursing students hands-on nursing experience. Samantha taught the nursing students the importance of advocating for their patients and using their own thinking when providing nursing care. She stressed to them that their opinion and nursing assessments are important because Indian women are raised to think that their opinions are not important. The nursing students were even given stethoscopes and got to listen to lung and heart sounds.

Wendy Parsons

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Overall, Samantha expressed that she had an incredible experience while on the medical missions trip. The most valuable lesson she learned is to be grateful for how much we have here in the United States. She was most impressed by how the Indian people do so much with the few resources they have. She also learned that we as women have so many opportunities in the United States as compared to the women in India who are severely undervalued and do not have a voice.

Steve Widder

To learn more about the Rhema Project or if you are interested in donating to the organization or going on a missions trip, check out: http://TheRhemaProject.org/. You can also follow The Rhema Project on Facebook (The Rhema Project) and on Instagram (@RhemaProject).

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EXPERIENCE the

Holy Land By: Anna Harvey Photos: Anna Harvey Layout: Casie Hoffman

View from Mount Carmel

It was early May and I was packing my suitcase as I finished preparing to leave for Israel. In the months leading to my trip, comments from friends and family had ranged from, “Wow, that’s incredible!” to, “Is that really safe?” I, too, was nervous about traveling to Israel. With most media coverage of Israel’s safety being far from positive and terrorist groups rising in other parts of the Middle East, I was reluctant to get on an airplane and head to a

new place. Despite my hesitation, I found myself boarding a plane in Newark headed to the Holy Land. Excitement started to grow the closer I got to my destination, but I had no idea the experience waiting for me would be so incredible.

If you have thought about going to Israel but are unsure of taking the trip, here are three reasons why you should go:

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1. You will grow spiritually

Before I went to Israel, every person I knew who had already gone told me that I would never read the Bible the same way. While that idea is cliche, it only scratches the surface of how Israel will change your walk with God. Riding a boat on the very waters Jesus calmed, walking in His footsteps in Jerusalem, visiting the place where Paul addressed Felix the Governor, and wading through the ancient tunnels of Hezekiah will make the Bible feel real and alive.

My walk with God was deeply changed in a way that would not have been possible if I had stayed home.

Israel will revitalize your spiritual life in an incredible way.

“I had no idea the experience waiting for me would be so incredible�

2. You will grow personally

Our tour guide told us that, because of the precarious circumstances of the Middle East, Israelis embrace every moment. By the end of the trip, I, too, had

Remains of Herod's palace at Caesarea Maritima

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The Sea of Galilee from the Mount of the Beatitudes

learned to take advantage of every moment. Going to Israel forced me to be adventurous in new ways, from trying new foods to visiting places that would normally terrify me. Since coming back home, I strive to be bold and embrace the adventurous spirit that I gained in Israel.

3. You will have fun

Yes, you will learn Biblical and world history in Israel.

You will hear the somber story of Israel’s beginnings after the Holocaust. You will visit sacred sites. You will also have fun and laughter. I went to Israel with my family and a group from my church, and the trip

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bonded all of us even more deeply. Some of my favorite memories from the trip are of joking with the other tour members. From exploring the Old City of Jerusalem and swimming in the Red Sea to making inside jokes and forming memories, you will have fun and adventure every day.

I am so thankful that I did not let the fear of the unknown from going to Israel. Israel grew me in countless ways and has forever changed who I am. Do not let what others say, what you hear on the news, or your own fears keep you from going to Israel. Israel is an investment that will change your life, your future, and your perspective.

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Old City Street, Jerusalem

AUSTRAL

Australia. The place of dreams. Well, at least my dreams.

I have been threatening people for years that I am just going to up and move to Australia. It is not a scary threat, because everyone can get along just fine with out me in the States. I am not sure what it is about Australia that has been so alluring, but it is just one of those places that has softly called to me since I was young and has gently pulled at my heart strings, beckoning me to join it across the great blue sea.

One amazing thing I have learned about dreams is that if you work hard enough at them, they can come true. This summer, I will be spending a month in Australia. I had been working to save money and plan these trips to other countries for the summer. But it just didn’t feel right. Then the opportunity opened about a month ago for me to travel to Australia for twice as long as I would have been in the other countries and it cost less than a third of the other trips as well.

I am beyond excited! I will have the

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LIA

By Karissa Hagemeister Photos by Yahaira Morales

opportunity to attend the Hillsong Conference there and connect with the people. I do not have a ton of plans created just yet but this experience is going to blow my mind. I have no idea what this trip is going to bring my way but if I love it as much as I think I will, I may not come back. (Haha, I am only partly joking).

Some of the things I would love to do while in Australia is: watch a kangaroo in their live habitat (maybe not too closely, I do not want to get kicked), visit my friend Raven, go surfing in the big blue ocean, eat a ton of Australian cuisine, visit as many places that I can in the course of a month and make many new friends.

Things I do not want to do in Australia: have a run in with one of their giant spiders! No thank you. The adventure awaits and I cannot wait to share with you how amazing it will all be!!

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A New Kind

OF CINEMA By: Aaron M. Williams Pictures by: Karissa Hagemeister Layout by: Casie Hoffman

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dds are that most of us have seen the hype of the recent oscar winning film, ​La La Land​(2016).

With it’s extravagant set designs, stunning colors and musical rhythm, it entices its audience to step into the screen for a brief moment and dance with characters they will soon learn to care about deeply. Directed

by Damien Chazelle (Whiplash (2014)), an up-andcoming director from a new age of cinema, La La land is a testament to all musicals from every era. It clashes beautifully with a naturalistic song style that makes it feel as if the world is supposed to be musical and not the other way around. The best way to imagine it is if ​ Singing in the Rain (1952) and ​The Sound of Music ​ (1965)​​had a baby.

La La Land s​ tars Ryan Gosling (​The Big Short

(2015)) ​as the jazz crazed Sebastian and Emma Stone (​ Birdman (2014)) ​as the wannabe actress working at a Starbucks on the Warner Bros. lot named Mia. Their paths collide and we see how intertwined their love is. The story is simply put but the theme is that every person should rise above conformity, because that is where the true artists lie. To any musician or filmmaker this would speak heavily to their craft. Sebastian convinces his new found love that she should forget what others think of her work and stake it all to become the actress she’s always wanted.

This is a strong sentiment that isn’t always acknowledged for young artists. If you want to paint, paint and don’t let anyone stop you from doing so.

Damien Chazelle is obviously a huge fan of both jazz

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O and film and includes it in all his films (as is evident by the intertwining story), but that is what any great writer or director will do. In fact, every artist should put what they know and love into their art so it can become a general reflection of who they are.

Beethoven, aGerman composer in the 17 and 1800’s composed music that reflected his life. If he was angered by the death of a loved one, his music would mirror just that. As he began to go deaf, the sounds of his deafness became prevalent with loud clashes and sink points in his compositions that mirrored the thudding and booming he heard in his ears. But Beethoven always started a symphony in a way that was unprecedented for audiences of the time and yet continued to compose. Damien Chazelle mirrors that as he did with ​Whiplash ​several years ago.

La La Land e​ nds with one of the more obscure endings (SPOILER ALERT). The two starcrossed lovers don’t stay together and yet we see a reel of what life would’ve been like if they had. Perhaps the dream that Sebastian had once had, to open a jazz club of his own, became a new dream. His new dream became Mia but by the time he realized this, his chances had already gone. Mia goes on to become the actress she always wanted and Sebastian gets his club but yet we’re not upset by this. Without

each other, they both would’ve been stuck in a rut which makes the relationship valuable and the story plausible. But I would be shocked if chazelle ended this phenomenal spectacle with a Hollywood ending. That is, an ending where everything works out in the end and nothing truly changes. Luckily for us, he did not conform to the classic Hollywood codes and ended it opposite of what anyone would’ve expected.

He rose above conformity and became an artist.

This film is a colorfully vibrant and cinematically moving masterpiece of the modern age. The acting (by Emma Stone in Particular), cinematography and directing was worthy of it’s many nominations and wins. I looked far and wide to find a contrast to my opinions of ​La La Land ​for days but I find this film to be unapologetic in its design. It doesn’t apologize for the slightly ambiguous ending or its lack of want to clarify anything. But it also doesn’t have to. Any real filmmaker would know that the audience will always want to figure things out on their own, whether they know it or not. It’s up to us as spectators to find the deeper meaning and solve the mysteries of the screen. This is more enticing for the viewing and more enriching for the experience.

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Style

el in

By Stylist, Kayla Kapp Photographs by Emilio Roman

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When traveling, pick some neutral outfits that are going to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Bring a jean jacket or sweater to cover up with and keep the jewelry to a minimum. This will make for a stylish, comfortable and easy flight.

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Photographer

Hello, my name is Emilio Luis Roman III, I am a Puerto Rican American Filmmaker/Photographer born in Lakeland Florida. I got my start in filmmaking when I was young, shooting a few homemade videos for my friends and family. I loved the craft so much I started making free music videos for students around the school. I am part of a military family, so I am no stranger to moving around. I have lived in Hawaii, Maryland, Illinois and then my father decided to retire here in Lakeland Florida. I have started my own Photography Company, Luis & Co. and I am very proud of it. Currently I study Broadcasting at Southeastern University and will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree this spring.

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Lu La

Contact us via email:

lularoebeautifullycreated@gmail.com Or phone: 7278043782

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a Roe

Layout Design by Samanatha Taylor

https://www.facebook.com/ groups/LuLaRoeBeautful/ @lularoeamandashannon

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MY FATHER’S GRACE

By Aaron Williams

Twas grace that struck a chord in me of late.

Grace of your “truths” and abled youth, short lived.

The truths to steer a ship through depths of hate, Torn by the split of your children, short lived.

Be ambled grace that seats you on your “throne”, of whitened stone and blackened ash, laid here.

Looking out from your temple (sits alone), My Captain you fight for beliefs so dear.

Blood Spilled upon your strip’d gown, so torn, By your kids’ hands so keen to pull the thread.

O’ My Father for whom I mourn!

The words you spake live on whilst you are dead.

But Ho! I sing, “My Father lives on!”

Live on! My Captain steering straight. Live on!

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In honor of President Abraham Lincoln

Photo taken by Karissa Hagemeister Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Orlando, Florida

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