Billboardgang Magazine Quarterly Spring Edition

April 2016 - June 2016 Issue 2

COMMUNITY LEADER OF THE MONTH Nomica Guillory

WHAT IS RICH?

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BEYOND THE INSPIRATION

Grammy Award Winner Chubby Carrier

Magazine

Contents

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE...

The Hotlist

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Here is our way of saying we see you. We acknowledge you. We respect you and your grind. Stay focused.

Center Stage

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The Spotlight’s On Reggie and Paris Miller of RCM ministries.

“The way you really find out about the performer’s seriousness about the cause is how long they stay with it when the spotlight gets turned off. You see a lot of celebrities switch gears. They go from the environment to animal rights to obesity or whatever. That I don’t have a lot of respect for.” Robert Redford

Beyond the Inspiration

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2010 Grammy Award winner Chubby Carrier tells more about his journey to success.

Community Leader of the Month

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“I share this with every one that takes the time to invest in someone else.” Nomica Guillory

Bucket List

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Take a look at the most beautiful scenes that must be see at least once in a lifetime.

Let us help you check a few destinations off of your Bucket List.

Common Truce

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Common issues….

Establishing truce…..

Common truce

Fitness

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We wanted to know what model Alicia Francois daily routine is to remain fit.

Ways to get your mind

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Writer Tanika Randle breaks down the TOP TEN simple ways to your mind, body, and soul right.

Want to write for Billboardgang Magazine? Contact us at www.Billboardgang.com

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LE T T E R F ROM T H E EDIT OR S

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reetings and a warm welcome to our very first issue of Billboardgang Magazine! We couldn’t be more excited to have made it to this point. Please take some time to get to know the layout of our magazine. You will notice the five categories of articles:

Entertainment, Power Circles, Community Leaders, Time & Leisure, and Health and Beauty. Within each category, there are articles for you to enjoy. You can look at one category at a time, or just peruse the articles on the home page to choose which to read first. Just as with a paper magazine, you may want to sit and read the whole thing at once, or come back to this issue several times to digest the articles more slowly.

Billboardgang magazine caters to a wide variety of entertainment topics. Billboardgang Magazine will primarily distributed in sound west Louisiana area. We will focus on exclusive network of national acts including but not limited to actors, producers, musicians, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Our magazines will highlight the positive features of the entertainment circles that is normally overloaded for commercially overrun topics.We will include regional, national, and local businesses and acts within our publications. You will find in Billboardgang Magazine a collection of inspired and instructive articles. We don’t always have hours to exercise every day. Our houses aren’t perfect. We stay informed and eat as healthy as we can, but we are also realistic and flexible. We try to be great examples for our kids, but we sometimes forget to appreciate every moment.

We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people. Please visit the page to see the wonderful contributors and read their bios. Also, feel free to leave comments on the articles to share your thoughts or ask the author a question. We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of Billboardgang Magazine.

P.S. Please subscribe at Billboardgang.com

Billboardgang magazine caters to a wide variety of entertainment topics. Billboardgang Magazine will primarily distributed in sound west Louisiana area. We will focus on exclusive network of national acts including but not limited to actors, producers, musicians, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

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Landon Anthony Mitchell Model - Actor Age: 6 years

Social: Facebook.com/LandonAnthonyMitchell Contact: LandonAnthonymitchell@gmail.com

* Submit your child’s art to Billboardgang@gmail.com

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Model: Dalana Thierry Billboardgang // Magazine

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Ty Dolla Sign’s debut album Free TC, 22K STS (sales-plusstreaming) units moved it’s first week

Recording Artist Kaylee Keller makes an early release of the music video of her EP’s title track, “Diamond” to the delight of her fan-base. Instagram: @kayleekellermusic

Juan Hustle #1 Midday Radio Personality • WGZB-FM • B96.5 • Actor • Product Endorser • Voice Over Artist • Traveler • Louisville

Singer | Dancer | Actor | DJ Booking: sparkleproductions10@gmail.com & 337-540-0913 | @blakesparkles

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PARIS MILLER FEELING

AS A MUSICIAN Q: How did you happen to find yourself in this position?

A: After years of planning in Church and making music for myself and my wife music exploded and open up doors for me Q: When you were a youngster, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: I wanted to be a pilot. I wanted to see the world.

Q: What does your family think of your work activity?

A: They love it. My family is a part, all are musicians or singers.

Q: What are the major problems you have had to face in your position?

Q: How have you dealt with those problems?

A: Sometimes when money got tight I had to remind myself what I am doing this for. I am giving glory to GOD. Q: What have you felt were your “greatest moments” in your work?

A: My greatest moments are when people tell me how my music has touched their lives especially people that I know are not in God Q: What is your major goal in your work?

A: Produce music and videos to help others in their day-to-day lives Q: What’s different in your job compared to what you thought it would be?

A: Work work work….some play lol

Q: What do you see as your next step?

A: My next step is movies, TV show, and an international audience.

Q: What would you like to tell me that I haven’t asked about?

A: I’m a father, husband, and minister. I am also a man that has made mistakes. I trust

in God’s grace and deliverance to get me through the day.

Q: What music / books / etc. were you influenced by while writing your most current album “Christian Journey”?

A: The last album was basically contemporary Christian. I spent a lot of time learning songs from others, such as Israel and the new breed, William McDowell, and Jonathan Stockstill as we were apart of their ministry

Q: When did you start out being interested in music, and decided that you wanted to pursue a career in music.

A: When I was about 13 I started a few rap groups, but after Salvation at age 19 I focused on gospel and started learning how to play different instruments

Q: When you were a kid did you hear a particular song, riding in a friend’s car or something, and it kind of made a connection, where you thought you might want to start making music? Tel us about that moment.

A: As a child about 7 or so me and my brother used to hear our grandparents playing old-school jams and we’re always run inside that room and act like we’re playing guitars and having fun it was a good days Q: Who is / was your inspiration?

A: My children make sure to have a positive influence in this world Q: What are your long time goals? How does your family feel about your goals?

A: My long-term goals are to teach my family how to love each other how to be successful in life and above all I just want to please God

Reginald and Paris Miller Bio

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eginald & Paris Miller got married in 2004. Reginald was born in San Diego, CA and raised in Houston, Tx. He found a love for music at an early age. Raised by his grandparents who listen to a lot of Motown/old school music he developed a Funk and R&B musical style. In 2002, he moved to Lake Charles, LA., got saved, and found a new love for gospel/ Christian music. Soon after he started RCM productions with his new wife Paris Miller.

Paris Miller was born and raised in Carencro, La. She stared singing at an early age of 2. She would lead Choirs and Praise and worship in her home church. She also found God at an early age, and gave her heart to him for his service. In 2004 she moved to Lake Charles, La. and found the love of her life Reginald Miller. It was a perfect combo, with her smooth soulful vocals and his new style of gospel music, they started RCM Productions where their goal is to bring the message of Christ through music.

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DJ Complex “Worldwide Remix” now available for download and streaming www.djkomplex.net

Lake Charles own debut album of 337 Mafia “L.A.D.’s Ambition” reaches 4 Billboard Charts #5 Heatseekers Album | #16 Rap Album | #18 independent album | #23 Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Albums

@itskanin BusinessInquires: kaninbookings@gmail.com soundcloud.com/itskanin

Ty Dolla Sign’s debut album Free TC, 22K STS (sales-plus-streaming) units moved it’s first week

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o are here today with Chubby Carrier, 2010 Grammy Award winner for BEST ALBUM IN CATEGORY.

and I’m the third generation that’s playing the accordion today.

Was your Grandfather and Father both musicians, or were they only singers?

That’s amazing! You took it on home with a big win in 2010. Parts of the country may not have been as familiar with zydeco music. How did that feel being a trailblazer for your culture of music?

Chicago, or Kansas City the first thing out of their mouths is that you guys are cajun music band.

Cajun this or cajun that, because we promote a lot of cajun, but that’s ok.

What they don’t know, they just don’t know. So they figured that when i was coming up they would say man that’s a great cajun band you have. I had to spend time to kinda educate them on the difference between zydeco and cajun music.

When ya’ll hear zydeco you going to hear more of R&B, Blues, Soul, and Rock and Roll.You hear cajun you gone hear more two step, a lot of waltz, a lot of jitterbug sounding songs. A lot of it came together when I started touring. I told daddy I was so interested into just getting people knowing about the music. When i started touring, it wasn’t the easiest thing. I had to tour the blues circuit.

So I did the blues circuit, and I said ok zydeco is a mixture of blues, R&B, soul, rock and roll. You know, cause when Rock and roll and blues had a baby, it was ZYDECO!

Chubby Carrier: They were accordion players. My grandfather played the accordion. daddy played the accordion,

Chubby Carrier: It wasn’t an easy ride.

A lot of people didn’t know what zydeco music was. Even when you got to Seattle,

Chubby Carrier: I sing some songs in Creole French. My grandmother was from Haiti. She spoke nothing but french.

I had a chance to learn it. When we

Chubby Carrier: Absolutely! Absolutely!

Tonight is the night we got a Chubby show because it ain’t no party like a chubby party.

That’s what we hear. It’s always amazing. Everyone dancing and into the music, partying and moving around.

Chubby Carrier: The most part is that music is for the people. Young people and older people, its family oriented. You know? Thats what my music captures, and I like that because I like to entertain people.

You know? My music is for the people. Everybody is invited.

How long have you been an entertainer?

Chubby Carrier: Professional 27 years, totally about 35. I started really young. I played with my daddy and my grandaddy. I started at the tender age of 5 listening to the zydeco music. When i joined my dad’s band I was about nine or ten years old.

Since I got behind that set of drums, it was imbedded in me. I knew i was going to be a musician.

Zydeco is indigenous to Louisiana.

In some parts of Louisiana there are people that speak patois, cajun french, etc. Do you play any music in those languages, or do you play an all english set?

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coming up as kid, we got into it. The 80’s rolled in and we kinda lost it, you don’t use it you lose it. The songs that i play and sing in french is all creole french I learned from my grandfather, my father, and Clifton Chenier. The music that I’m playing today is not all in french. Back in the day it was a lot of the music in french, but i understand some of it. I don’t speak it fluently. I understand some terms.

Sometimes I’ve actually ask my dad, man What I’m singing about? I don’t want to get up here singing about my wife and I don’t have a wife, my woman done left me you know! It’s in the family, it’s in the heritage, it’s in the tradition, and its in the culture. So we try to keep that tradition.

How important is that keeping the culture and the tradition alive?

Chubby Carrier: It is very important, very important. When I was coming up zydeco music was everywhere. As a matter of fact Mr Boozoo Chavis was doing the same thang in the 50’s and 60’s. In the 70’s he had to give it up because he had a big family. He couldn’t continue his zydeco weekends like he was doing them. He came back strong in the early 80’s. To him, I think in his heart he felt that i can’t lose my culture, I can’t lose my tradition. I gotta keep my heritage going. That’s like me! It’s so important, and I promote it everyday. I got a program called Zydeco from A to Z. It’s an educational program for kids in the summer. I go out, have summer programs, and I let the kids know how important it is to keep our culture, our heritage, and our tradition alive. It means a lot to me, thats why i am out there promoting it, talking to kids, and going into schools. Letting them know about the history of your grandfather and your grandmother.

How has the youth responded about the music and heritage. Louisiana has such a reach in all genres of music.

What has their response been?

Chubby Carrier: Its like oh wow, I didn’t know that. I didn’t know it. My grandfather played… yea that’s right your grandfather used to play this music.

Your grandmother was playing this music. They just don’t know it. What the kids of today hear and see on tv think thats their tradition, but you see back in the day we never had all that. We had

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Its like oh wow, I didn’t know that. I didn’t know it. My grandfather played… yea that’s right your grandfather used to play this music. Your grandmother was playing this music.

They just don’t know it. What the kids of today hear and see on tv think thats their tradition, but you see back in the day we never had all that. families that came together and played music together. We don’t have that no more. i mean look like we done, time done caught up with us. It’s like we are so busy that we don’t have time to sit with the families, play the music, understand the music, and talk about the music. Its always we’re on the go. After I won the grammy, I say I’m gonna pull the reigns back. I’m going back in the schools. I’m going back and talking to the kids, I’m going to invite them to come and play an instrument. You know? They are not getting that in the household, why? We don’t play instruments. We play xbox or playstation (the kids say). I’m like wow.

So that’s what it become to huh. So Im trying to encourage them to be able to play an instrument. and come over to the house and play drums, guitar....Pick up an instrument!

Thats great! Growing up, music was around. If there wasn’t anything else around, music was around, and it can really impact a young person’s life. We are excited that you are doing things like that in the community. You’re on the road a lot. How do you take care of yourself physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally Where do you �ind your relaxation?

Chubby Carrier: If you have seen “The Bus” with the Pittsburgh Steelers, “ I won the championship and the bus stops here” - Jerome Bettis.

So after I went out for those many many years touring heavily, and I won the Grammy. That is when I pulled back the reigns. I said you know what, I been there done that. On the bus that goes round and round, its gonna slow down. So yeah you have to discipline yourself. You gotta say that’s it.

Discipline.

Chubby Carrier: Yes, you have to (discipline yourself). So I decided to spend time with my family, in my community, and with the kids. I won the grammy in 2010, and now I am able to go and reach out to others, and give them the encouragement to do what I did.

Not touring as much no more.

So you just released a new project right? What is the name of that project?

Chubby Carrier: “Zydeco Stuff”, I can’t get enough of it.

What can your fans and your listeners expect from this project?

Chubby Carrier: A little bit of everything man. I wanna bring my tradition to them. I grew up in the 70’s listening to the funk and R&B soul. When they hear my music, you know, they say Chubby we hear a little bit of everything in your music R&B, soul, rock and roll, gospel, jazz, but thats what I grew up on.

Listening to all of those genres of music, and I wanted to incorporate it into my sounds. So this album is going to bring that sound to people when they listen to it. They are going to hear all of that. Like a good gumbo man.

Thank you,Chubby Carrier, it was great talking to you.

Chubby Carrier: I appreciate you.

This is Chubby Carrier, I am Tony James, and this is Billboardgang Magazine. You’re watching, you’re listening, you’re reading us. We appreciate it. Thanks.

Chubby Carrier: Well, This is grammy award winner Chubby Carrier signing off, Billboardgang I’l see ya’ll later.

Highlight “CLIPS” Christopher May

#14 FRESHMAN

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y name is Christopher May. I am 6 Feet tall, and attend school at Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School. I am a combination guard. I can shoot, dribble, and penetrate to the rim. I can also crash the boards for rebounds and play defense.

Ever since I was 2 years old I developed a jump shot. That is one of the main things I love to do. I just always shoot, all the time, its something that I work on a lot. I like to put up thousands of shots a day. It does;t matter if they are at my house, if i can get into the gym that is good, but if not it doesn’t stop me from working. I run a lot of bleachers everyday. I run bleachers and around the track because conditioning is one of my main things that I love to work on. If I can take my man to the rim, I’ll do that, or showcase my skill and shoot it. My favorite thing to do on the court, it really doesn’t mean anything, but I like to cross over people.

Subscribe to Chris May’s success on TheJmay88 youtube sports channel

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WHAT IS RICH Written by Blakcard ATM

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y definition rich is an adjective that is pronounced /riCH/ and can mean having a great deal of money or assets; wealthy or plentiful; abundant. Many people look at the word rich and create an unrealistic reality world based on what they think rich is.

I want to help make becoming rich simpler for you. You can be rich at many different levels of life. My job is to point out the fact that abundance is right at your fingertips.

Your everyday life is full of the things that can prove that riches are not always based on definition but a way of life.

What is Rich?

Quite naturally we all want rich to mean that we have lots of money and assets.

One way to begin feeling rich is by paying yourself first every time you receive money. Put the money into your 401(k), your Roth IRA, or your savings account. If you don’t have enough for an account put it in a shoebox until you save more. Pay yourself first is a phrase commonly used in personal finance and retirement planning literature that means to automatically route your specified savings contribution from each paycheck at the time it is received. Before you pay your bills, before you buy groceries, before you do anything else, set aside a portion of your income to save. It may seem unrealistic

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to talk about paying yourself first when you’re faced with so many other financial obligations. Don’t touch it. Don’t pull money out of it. You should have a separate emergency fund for just that — emergencies.

What is Rich?

Now most will tell you that this money should not be touched at all. What they don’t tell you is when it is ok to touch it. This money is here to continue to work for itself, compound, and grow. You cannot set money to the side for months and months and

think that you can buy a pair of shoes and this will make you rich. We don’t want you to look rich, we want you to be rich. Invest in yourself. Start a small business that can begin to create more for this pay yourself first account. Invest in real estate. Real estate is a great way to allow your money to appreciate immediately.

Rental property, fix up projects, or just buying a home for your family to live is a great way to gain immediate access to funds for years to come.

What is rich?

Determine your income. Reduce expenses. Create a Budget. Set goals Even small savings can have big uses. Start small even if it is $5 a week. Do something by paying yourself first because if you don’t, you will somehow find ways of spending money until you have very little left. In other words, it’s like our expenses “expand” to meet our income. If you cut your income by paying yourself first, your expenses will stay under control.

WHALEY INTERVIEW When did you realize that your artistic talent was more of a gift?

I realized my talent was more of a gift when I had people see my work, and tell me that my work actually helped them get through a real trying time. I have at least one person come up to me and tell me something positive that they see in my work that even I myself don’t see. It really gives me a great sense of knowing that this is something positive I can own, put into the world, and receive a great blessing from it. To share art with me daughter is also a gift for me. My daughter is starting to learn the process.

Art gives her an outlet to be as creative as she wants to be, as well as an early glimpse into entrepreneurship.

build model cars and customized bicycles. When I wasn’t able to do either of the two, I would sketch. I sketch when I’m happy, sad, and when I’m in deep thought. I am constantly engaged in some form or way with creating.

I realized my passion for art early on in life. Art for me is an escape. A piece of work that you like can turn a bad day into a good day.

At what point did you realize your passion for art?

I realized my passion for art early on in life. Art for me is an escape. A piece of work that you like can turn a bad day into a good day. Whether it be the composition of colors or the overall image, it can change the entire mood.

As a child (even now) I would doodle or sketch a lot. Even as a hobby I would Billboardgang // Magazine

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likes of other very prestigious artist from all over the world. The event is called Art Basel. This is the largest international art fest held in North America. This is definitely a dream come true. I plan to go back again this year!

How does it feel to achieve as much as you have in such a little time?

It feels amazing! To be a gift to someone, by making them smile, or even have them admire my work has given me the best sense of accomplishment.

Where do you plan to take your artistic career?

To where the good Lord wants me to be! Seriously, I feel my steps are definitely in order. I don’t have/know an exact plan. I am planning to do my artwork full time by 2018 (maybe sooner). With art, I know plenty of opportunities will come from it because I will have more time. The biggest goal will be for me to work on giving back to my community. Through my vision and artistic ability, I know the sky is truly the limit. I want everyone one to see a living example of what following your dreams look like. I can do all thing through Christ!

Explain the transition from before art and after making the decision to pursue. I’m currently serving in the Armed Forces. I have served in many different countries all over the world. Most of the countries were very impoverished. During my tours, I was able to build schools and make life better for those who were in need. My most recent tour was to Afghanistan in 2013. Shortly after my tour to Afghanistan, I wanted to do something more for myself, but also impact the world. This was when I made the conscience choice of making a personal difference in the world, through the creation of my art work. With my art work I was able to help raise funds for the research of Leukemia and Lymphoma, a fresh water well in Uganda, and also raised funding for the ISHA project, an organization that helps the economic empowerment of women in SubSahara Africa. I must admit this journey has not been an easy one.

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Getting people to support has been a challenge, but I am VERY thankful for those who have supported me thus far!

Tell me about your achievements as an artist?

Some of my biggest accomplishments are having my own mural located in Houston, Tx. With that mural, I was also published in the local newspaper and a local magazine in Houston. Another of my accomplishments was working with several charities. With these charities, I was able to extend my craft, and help raise funds for research and countries who are in need. Lastly, being able to travel to Miami and show my work with the

have served in many different countries all over the world.

Most of the countries were very impoverished. During my tours, I was able to build schools and make life better for those who were in need

COMMUNITY LEADER OF THE MONTH Nomica Golden Guillory Wife - Mother - Author - Speaker - Leader - and - More www.ExcellenceNYou.com Nomica@ExcellenceNYou.com

you both for all you do in this community and beyond!!!!!!! #Humbled!”- Nomica Guillory

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am completely #HONORED and #surprised to have been nominated as Community Leader of the Month by the owners of Billboardgang Magazine, Anthony Mitchell and Santana Mitchell.

“I share this with every one who takes the time to Invest in someone else.

We should all wake up and use our words and actions to lift others up because at the end of the day, that is how we get blessed. We should want to grasp, with a yearning desire, every drop of opportunity life has to offer us. And we should all leave this earth better than the way we entered it. #TheGoalIsThatWeAllMakeIt. Thank you so much for the recognition and thank

Nomica won the title of Mrs. Louisiana-America in 2006 and competed in the nationally televised Mrs. America Pageant. There, she placed 3rd runner-up to Mrs. America! She has appeared in the MTV spin-off show called, “So What Do You Want To Be?”, several television commercials as well as college introductory videos. Mrs. Nomica won the title of 2013 Up and Coming Business Woman of the year (nominated by the Chamber of SWLA).

She is also a former professional fashion model and has appeared in several national magazines and catalogs.

She has over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. Her professional experience includes walking the runways of Houston, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New York. She has appeared in several editorials and print catalogs such as Dilliards, J.C. Penny and Foley’s. Nomica taught modeling and self improvement skills for 4 years at the Mayo Hill School of Modeling located in Houston,Texas.

Nomica holds degrees in Nursing, Mass Communications, and a Master of Science in Instructional Technology from

McNeese State University. After working as a nurse for many years, she served as Director of the SWLAHEC Americorps program, the largest health corps in the state of Louisiana; serving 13 parishes, supervising 145 members, and managing a $6 million dollar budget. She has worked as the Director of Telemedicine for a 5-hospital consortium, assisting the medically underserved to secure access to healthcare. She is currently the Campus Administrator for Unitech Training Academy - Lake Charles, a career school, and she is the co-owner of Everest Care, L.L.C. When Nomica’s husband Mr. Eligha Guillory found out about the community leader of the month nomination this was his most genuine response. “So proud of this awesome lady who is dedicated to leaving her space better than she found it. Help me congratulate her and thank her for giving of herself to empower others.” - Eligha Guillory

I am completely #HONORED and #surprised to have been nominated as Community Leader of the Month by the owners of Billboardgang Magazine, Anthony Mitchell and Santana Mitchell.

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BUCKETLIST

GRAND BLISS RIVIERA MAYA Km. 48 Carretera Federal Cancun Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77710 Mexico

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or vacations that truly transcend, at a beautiful beach oasis, experience The Grand Bliss Riviera Maya.

Feel a renewed sense of peace and tranquility when you enter; you’ll never want to leave. Immerse yourself in a natural environment—with a soft palate of warm natural colors on a white background, murals of flora and fauna, and lush jungle vegetation around you. Enjoy the serenity of a private pool, and panoramic views from your balcony. Receive personalized attention and pampering in an environment of casual elegance— perfect for you, perfect for a true vacation getaway.

5/8/2016 5/15/2016 1BD Sleeps 6 (4a, 2c)

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KAHANA BEACH RESORT 4221 Lower Honoapiilani Highway Lahaina, Hawaii 96761 USA

4/9/2016 - 4/16/2016 Studio Sleeps 4

Kahana Beach Resort is perfectly situated on the beach in Maui with breathtaking views of the ocean. To get to the beach, simply put on your sandals and walk outside. Sandcastle-building, sun-tanning, and boating are a few of the popular activities found on this whitesand beach. All suites open to private lanais which supply the cool ocean breeze or a great location for stargazing in the warm evening air. There are a host of on-site activities nearly every day of the week, including a Nature Walk and Flower Lei-Making. Make memories for years to come with your vacation at the Kahana Beach Resort!

To get to the beach, simply put on your sandals and walk outside. Sandcastlebuilding, suntanning, and boating are a few of the popular activities found on this white-sand beach Billboardgang // Magazine

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Hurghada Egypt Hurghada Sea View Penthouse 05/17/2016-05/26/2016 (9 days) Description: 2 BEDROOM PENTHOUSE/SLEEPS 4 Location: Samra Bay is a luxury resort located in the golden mile area (Mamsha) The resort combine a private beach, luxury facility, Samra Bay is adjacent to five stars hotels Hilton, Intercontinental, Steigenberger, Movenpick hotels, Samra Bay border the famous promenade with its world renowned restaurant, bars, cafeteria, club and shopping centre

Welcome to our own treasured Sea View Penthouse Samra Bay in Hurghada in the Red Sea sun. We have attempted to make this a luxury home-from-home with all the requirements you need for a wonderful relaxing holiday. It is fully furnished and maintained to our own exacting standards. Other than your own personal effects we have tried to provide everything you will need, including beach towels you don’t have to pack!

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Will consider Long term lease (over 1 month), Nearest travel links Nearest airport: Hurghada 4 km

Family friendly Great for children of all ages, Suitable for people with restricted mobility Notes No pets allowed, No smoking at this property Further details outdoors - Balcony / Terrace with Table and Seating • Three outdoor pools including toddlers pool areas • Shared garden

• Direct access to beach with private beach area for residents of Samra Bay. • Private beach area has wind breaks, loungers, low tables and parasol style sun shades.

Please note that this is strictly a non smoking unit.

BOOK YOUR BUCKET LIST TRAVEL DESTINATION TODAY

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www.vacay4less.paycation.com Facebook: Thomas Jun Garza Instagram: @bigjunatl

Email: tgarzaatl@yahoo.com Phone: 1(678)478-8179

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COMMON TRUCE

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y name is Darion Coleman and I am the visionary behind CommonTruce. I am also a motivational speaker, event host and blogger… but more of that shortly. The more I have grown, the more difficult it has become to turn a blind eye towards the current state of our community. Instead of complaining about it, I decided to be active in creating a way that change could be fostered.

CommonTruce was conceived out of the desire to take an active role in improving our overall community. Our mission is to reconcile the relationship between men and women of color.

Bridging this divide will strengthen our communities, promote unity, and create stability for future generations. These desires are common in our community. It became the focal points of change that I wanted to advocate in our environment. I began to brainstorm ways to create a platform which would generate the shift in thinking to invoke solutions.

In stark contrast to the problems, I wanted and hoped for us to: 1.

Become better educated and resolve common relationship issues we face;

3.

Improve our communities by becoming active in the change we all desire.

2.

Foster successful marriages while effectively providing support for the children involved;

COMMON issues… establishing TRUCE… COMMONTRUCE

Since CommonTruce has been conceived; it is a rapidly growing part of our community. With each new member, we are equipped with a fresh mind and the ability to effectively give more. With every milestone accomplished, we become closer to our goal.

A Common Goal.

A Common Dream.

– Darion Coleman

www.commontruce.com

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A Common Truce.

After years of living in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, I’ve learned that it’s truly the mecca of single, attractive and progressive-minded women of color. If you take a survey, there is clearly a noticeable difference in the number of single, educated women in comparison to single, educated men. There are plenty of factors that contribute to the imbalance that affects the dating pool. A number of black men are incarcerated, homosexual or simply aren’t desirable to women. In addition, many men are willing or prefer to date outside their race, and/or they are not ready to settle down.

Males who don’t fall into any of the aforementioned categories are definitely “WINNING.” These men are fully aware of the current dating climate. Unfortunately, some of them find opportunities to monopolize on the disproportionate contrast in numbers. While the intentions should be working to build a relationship, they rather devote their time and energy to find ways to gain leverage. Instead of monogamy, many men take advantage of the plethora of single black women.

WHY?

One reason is due to the huge gap in the ratios, competition between men is virtually nonexistent. Knowing that there is an overabundance of women provides men the freedom and wiggle room to be unrealistic in their expectations of women. It allows

men to boldly tell all of their desires to women with little judgement or resistance. The mentality is, “If she isn’t willing to give me what I want, she can easily replaced.” It sets impractical expectations and creates an erroneous sense of what love and relationships truly are. Due to their pride, selfishness and inflated egos, men have molded themselves into false idols.

Yet, they are not worthy of any praise or worship! We have to stop esteeming ourselves and start giving our relationships the respect that they deserve. Fellas, we have to take ownership of the demise of the dating pool, relationships and even our marriages. You cannot expect to take advantage of your lady by playing the field your entire relationship, and then enter into a marriage desiring that same playground. Generally those who get married do it before God. He often times is regarded as the staple that holds a bond intact. Once you allow other parties to interfere with the union between you and your spouse, it’s over!

It’s easy for a man to request a “hall pass” to cheat during marriage because he was never completely faithful to begin with. Would men be okay with giving her that same pass? She will likely give him the “hall pass” because she has been loyal and faithful to him during the course of their relationship despite his cheating. There should not be any form of a “hall pass” allowed in a marriage. If the man or woman wants the ability to be free for a given period of time, they should reconsider getting married to begin with.

What are your thoughts on a “hall passes?”

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Wedding

Figure out tips and �inal payments for vendors. Put them in clearly marked envelopes and give them to the Best Man or another person you trust to hand out at the reception.

10–12 Months To Go • Work out your budget and establish your top priorities—where to save/ where to splurge.

• Find Ideas. Start browsing bridal blogs and magazines to identify your wedding style and color palette.

• Compile your preliminary guest list.

• Choose your wedding party. Who do you want by your side at the altar?

• Find a venue for your ceremony and reception, and reserve your date.

• Do you need wedding insurance ? It’s something to think about. Check with your venue about Liability Insurance and consider other options, like cancellation insurance.

• Now that you have a date, tell everyone to save it! For destination weddings or weddings around a holiday, consider sending out Save-the-Date cards or

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• • • •

emails. Or create your own wedding website, and let your invitees know about it.

Find a Dress and begin assembling the perfect accessories.

Find vendors: Assemble an all-star vendor team. We'd start with:Caterer, Photographer / Videographer When you hire a vendor, get all the details in writing!

Already feeling overwhelmed?

Consider hiring a wedding planner.

6–9 Months To Go

• Continue researching, interviewing and booking vendors. And don’t forget, when you hire one make sure to put everything in writing • Decide on arrangements with your floral designer.

• Choose your wedding cake with your • Hire the DJ/Entertainment for your

ceremony, cocktail hour and reception.

• Discuss the style and wording of your wedding invitations.

• Arrange hotel room blocks for out-oftown guests and book your own suite for the wedding night.

• Shop for bridesmaid/flower girl dresses and give your attendants clear instructions on how to place their orders.

• Arrange and book any necessary transportation.

• Go over bridal shower/bachelorette details and the guest list with the person(s) thatis hosting your party.

3–5 Months To Go

• Book the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner locations. If you’re including entertainment or specialty details like a groom’s cake, now’s the time to lock in these elements.

• Put together your rehearsal dinner guest list.

• Reserve all necessary party rentals and liners.

• Order wedding favors for your guests.

• Reserve men’s formalwear.

• Concentrate on finalizing the: Guest list and invitation wording • Guest list. Get everyone’s mailing address.

• Invitation wording. Confirm your invitation text, and consider additional programs, menu cards, place cards, thank-you cards, etc..

• Schedule a pickup date for your invites.

• Ceremony readings and vows.

• Menu, beverage and catering details.

• Timeline of the reception formalities.

• Do a Makeup & Hair trial and book your stylists. While you’re at it, come up with your own beauty and fitness regimen to be camera-ready for the big day.

Speaking of emergencies: Check the weather report, and if things look iffy contact your venue to make sure a contingency plan is in place.

• Shop for and purchase your wedding rings.

• Finalize honeymoon plans and obtain all necessary documents (are you sure your passports are up to date?).

6–8 Weeks To Go

• You’re getting close…. Mail out those invitations! Have a game plan for recording the RSVP’s and meal choices.

• Touch base with your vendors to confirm date, deposits, and details.

• Start researching marriage license requirements and name-change paperwork.

• Begin your dress fittings. Be sure to buy the appropriate undergarments beforehand.

• So you think you can’t dance? Consider taking a dance lesson with your fiancé—a good way to break in your bridal shoes!

• Give the wedding party a nudge—make sure they’ve ordered all necessary attire.

• Write thank-you cards for shower gifts and any early wedding gifts received.

3–5 Weeks To Go

• Send out rehearsal dinner invitations.

If your get-together will be informal, feel free to send an E-vite.

• Finalize and con�irm: • Wedding vows and readings with your Officiant.

• Shot list with your Photographer/ Videographer.

• Song list for ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception with your DJ and/or Band/ Musicians.

• Timeline for the reception and who’s giving the toasts.

• Wedding night and honeymoon accommodations.

• Obtain marriage license and complete name-change documents, if applicable.

• Pick up your wedding rings and proofread any engraving!

• If you’re the traditional type, do you have something old, new, borrowed and blue?

• Purchase your guest book, toasting flutes, cake servers, unity candle, and all that good stuff.

• Buy gifts (optional) for the wedding party and parents of the bride and groom.

• Have your final dress fitting. Bring your shoes and accessories for the full impact.

• Sigh. Hunt down whoever hasn’t RSVP’d yet.

1–2 Weeks To Go

• Give your caterer/venue the final guest count.

• Arrange seating and create the seating chart and/or place cards.

• Pick up your gown.

• Confirm arrival times and finalize the wedding timeline with vendors and the wedding party • Put together your own bridal emergency kit.

• Speaking of emergencies: Check the weather report, and if things look iffy contact your venue to make sure a contingency plan is in place.

• Start packing for your honeymoon.

(See “weather report” above.)

• In desperate need of a facial or massage?

Now’s the time to squeeze one in.

Wedding-day advice • Allow plenty of time to get ready.

• Do the rounds at your wedding—greet everyone and thank them for coming.

• Take a deep breath. Stop to appreciate your new spouse and the day that you spent so much time planning!

After the Honeymoon/ Back to Reality…

• Write and send thank-you cards. Don’t procrastinate!)

• Complete your registry and exchange any unwanted or duplicate gifts.

• Have your wedding dress cleaned and preserved by a reputable company.

• Keep in touch with your Photographer/ Videographer to work on albums, DVDs, etc.

• Enjoy wedded bliss...

The Day Before…

• Make sure all wedding-day items are packed, laid out, and ready to go! (Don’t forget the rings and marriage license!)

• Figure out tips and final payments for vendors. Put them in clearly marked envelopes and give them to the Best Man or another person you trust to hand out at the reception.

• Assign someone to pack up your gifts and belongings after the reception (don’t forget the top tier of your cake!).

• Thank your BFF for agreeing to return your groom’s tux and other rental items the day after the wedding.

• Enjoy a mani-pedi.

• Attend the rehearsal and dinner. Now’s the time to give out wedding party gifts.

• Try to go to bed early…you need your beauty sleep tonight.

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Swimming Safety Tips for Summer

S

wimming is one of summer’s most popular activities, but it is important to follow basic rules and common sense to avoid getting into dangerous situations. Whether you have a backyard pool or enjoy swimming in ponds, lakes, or oceans, the following summer safety tips for parents and kids should always be at the forefront of your mind:

lock to avoid children entering the pool unattended.

• Outfit pool areas with appropriate lifesaving equipment.

• Never run – or permit running – on pool decks or patios. These damp areas can be both slippery and hard, leading to dangerous falls.

General Swimming Safety Tips

• Take swimming lessons – or make sure your children take them. It’s the best way to make sure that being in and around the water is the safest possible experience.

• Adhere to any and all “No Swimming” signs posted at rivers, lakes, pools, and oceans. The signs are there for a reason – whether they signal private property, polluted water conditions, dangerous wildlife or water plants, or dangerous swimming conditions.

• Never allow children to go into the water if they are unable to swim or if they are unsupervised by an adult.

• Never swim while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Be aware of the signs of heat stroke, which usually include hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. If you think someone is suffering from heat stroke, call for help and move the person to a cooler place. Keep the person lying down. Apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin, and fan the person until help arrives.

Pool Safety Swimming Tips for Kids

• Keep pools fenced in with gates that

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• Adhere to any age limits, day or time limits, and lifeguard rules posted at public or hotel pools.

• Swimming in Rivers, Ponds, Lakes, and the Ocean

Avoid swimming alone.

• Know the area where you will be swimming – including water depth, the nature of the surface beneath the water, the potential presence of wildlife in and out of the water, weather conditions (“if in doubt, don’t go out”), and currents.

• Follow all posted or park rules and regulations – stay within designated swimming areas.

• Honor all “No Swimming” or “Beach Closed” signs. If swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty, wait for the lifeguards – in fact, swim where lifeguards are on duty whenever possible.

• Always wear sunscreen when outdoors in the summer, and use water-resistant sunscreen when swimming. Re-apply after swimming and toweling off.

• Never dive into a body of water if you don’t know how deep it is. Don’t allow children to dive.

(pushing, shoving) on the pool deck or patio.

• Avoid strong currents – learn safety rules for swimming in river or ocean currents if you will be swimming in those environments.

• Never dive into a pool – or allow children to dive into a pool – where diving is forbidden. If diving is allowed, be sure you know the depth of the pool and only dive into the areas marked deep enough for diving.

• Never allow children to swim without an adult supervising who can swim.

• Never allow a child (or adult) who cannot swim wade into a pool without an adult proficient in swimming accompanying them.

• Children should always swim with a buddy.

• Adults or babysitters who monitor children at pools should be able to swim, should be trained in rescue protocols and CPR, and should always have a telephone present in case of emergencies.

• Check pool chemical levels regularly to provide a healthy pool environment.

• Ask all swimmers to leave the pool if a thunderstorm is approaching.

• Do not allow “monkey business”

• Avoid swimming in areas where motorboats are present.

• If your leg becomes entangled in water plants, stay calm. Don’t pull and risk entangling your leg further.

Call for help if someone is nearby, and slowly unravel the plant from your leg, dunking under water a few times if necessary.

• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties, as permanent rip currents often exist near these structures.

• If you get caught in a rip current, remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly. Do not fight against the current. Instead swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle -- away from the current -- towards shore. If you are unable to swim out of a rip current, float or calmly tread water, then, when you are out of the current, swim towards shore. If you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving an arm and yelling for help.

RIDES Dillon McElveen’s (@McMuff_)

2012 Ford F350 Lariat fully deleted 6.7L Powerstroke single wheel.

8” Fabtech lift on 40x15.5x20” Toyo Open Country M/T tires mounted on 20x10” -24mm offset XD Series XD808 wheels. Custom built headlights. Amp Research powersteps, wheel well rock lights, Rigid Industries 40” LED Lightbar.

Photo taken by Andrew Toups (@Toupsanator)

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SHOE GAME CASUAL

SHOE GAME SPORT

WHAT’S YOUR PREFERENCE AND WHY? LET’S TALK @BILLBOARDGANG ON IG

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Model: Wade Neil Ellzey @wade_lz_of_bbg Bow Tie: Eauxte’ LLC Instagram: @Eauxte

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Model: Wade Neil Ellzey @wade_lz_of_bbg Bow Tie: Eauxte’ LLC Instagram: @Eauxte

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1. Topshop.com | 2. Topshop.com | 3. Bloomingdales.com | 4. Prestigetime.com | 5. Target.com | 6. Clinque.com | 7. Accessorize.com | 8. Belk.com | 9. Shopbob.com | 10. Rupertsanderson.com

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Model: @THAONE_ANDONLY_ANN (IG) Photography: Faces of Fantasy Photography LLC (337)532-4992 www.FOFantasy.com

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Make-Up Artist: Nesha Durgan Buice www.styleseat,com/neshabuice Model: Khelilah Thibodeaux Photographer: Patrick Williams Photography Website: www.styleseat.com/neshabuice

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Patrick Williams Photography 809 Kirby St, Suite 347 Lake Charles, Louisiana www.pwphotography.org Model: Khelilah Thibodeaux Mua: Nesha Durgan Buice

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Q: How many time a week do you work out?

A: I workout at least 6 days a week. Some say you shouldn’t have to work out that many days.

For me, its not only about getting �it and being healthy. Getting �it and being healthy are two of the reasons, but most importantly it’s time for me.

Q: What is your favorite healthy snack?

A: Skinny Pop and grape fruit.

Q: As a hard working business women what is your daily routine when planning meals?

A: Hmm…The Results.

A: I prepare the meals on Sunday’s. Sometime I’m not feeling it so I will order a health meal from local restaurant or drink a smoothie,

Q: Who inspire you to stay �it?

Q: Do you prefer to workout with or without a partner?

A: I’m a single parent that work long hours and I spend workout time with my beautiful and amazing daughter (blushing).

A: I prefer to workout with a partner because we can motivate each other.

Q: What keeps you motivated when working out?

Q: What does your diet consist of?

A: Egg white and grapefruit in the morning. Fish and broccoli, and more �ish for lunch and dinner.

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I treat myself once a week to what ever I feel like eating (hehe).

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Fitness Alicia Francois @msafrancois

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Top Ten

Ways To Get Your Mind, Body, And Soul Right Once upon a time we all thought that life would just fall into place and our bodies would always look this way. Well my friend, take advice from a New Orleans girl who once said, “If you do your best each and every day, good things are sure to come your way.” There is no better time to get started. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s get our Mind, Body, and Soul Right this year and for those to come! So Hop To It. Get Right with God

Save Money

He wakes you up everyday and gives you and your family what you need. Pray each day and thank him. He will teach you how to love one another.

Deposit at least $50 into your savings account each month. See how much you will have for a “rainy day” by December.

Be Happy

Eliminate stress and anxiety by finding what you love to do, and then do more of it.

Tip: Leave work at work.

Get Organized

Clean up each night before bed. Go to bed and get work on time. Create a schedule or a “to do” list and stick to it.

Exercise Daily

Set a goal of 3 days per week to hit the gym.

No time for the gym, then hit the living room. Your future “fit bod” will thank you later.

Put Family First

Spend more time with your family. Build the best foundation by showing them they are your priority. Live, love, and laugh with them.

Pay off Debts

Start monthly payments to old student loans, credit cards, etc.

Be proactive and answer those bill collector calls and letters. Build up your credit for your future house and car purchases.

Help Others

Volunteer at shelters, donate clothing, and funds to charities of your choice. Show some love.

Eat Healthy

Your plate should be half veggies, 1⁄4 lean meat and 1⁄4 starch (optional).

Drink plenty of water and eat fruit. Try to eliminate junk food, processed food, and soda.

Stick to your Goals, You can do it!

By Tanika Randle

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Be proactive and answer those bill collector calls and letters. Build up your credit for your future house and car purchases.

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Billboardgang Magazine April 2016 - June 2016

Issue 2 “Spring is when life’s alive in everything.”

- Christina Rossetti

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