ETSY BLACK PRE-FALL 2018
& E-BLACK COLLECTIVE
WORD ON THE
SONIQUE
(SHE HAS IT IN THE BAG)
Shop Owners Changing the Game J. Dream Studio
fall kick-it spots
A+
GOODS BATH TIME SOLACE Fall Fashion + Beauty Picks
Pour it Up: Cam's Coffee Cam’s Coffee is a delicious pick-me-up to start your money. The company founded by Camden Myers, a 10 year-old entrepreneur, who has over 12 varieties with everything from white chocolate to caramel macchiato. Cam who suffers from TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), opened his coffee shop this year in Winstom-Salem, North Carolina. He hires employees with special needs, hs several contracts with local businesses and part-time employees. The shop is open from 7:30Noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Our Choice: Jamaican Me Crazy, $10.99 www.cams-coffee-creations.myshopify.com Cam’s Coffee Creations Shop 930 S. Broad Street Winstom-Salem, NC 27101 www.camscoffeecreations.com
Get Skin Clear as the Sky Forget about those ingrown hairs and get clearer skin with the J. Arthur Skin Care Systems for Men. This effective formula combats troubled skin and lightens dark spots bumps can leave behiind. Active ingredients in J. Arthur are not only of the highest quality, but are concentrated in the purest form. Unlike other products, J. Arthur will give immediate response and gratification. You will no longer have to wait several weeks with continual usage to see results. Our goal was to create a product that would work for Men of various ethnicities and skin types. We wanted a skin care regime that would leave a man’s face feeling clean, moisturized and most importantly it needed to work fast. Best Buy: J. Arthur Ingrown Hair Treatment, $19 www.jarthurskincare.com
ESTY BLACK & eB l ac k C o l l e c t i v e Olayinka FAB Publisher Contributors: Rosie In the Sun
Photos: Afrohemien brass hoops, $68, www.afrohemien.com; Beach Life print, $59, www.eeni-edit.com Ushujaa Publishing Creme de la Creme Erotica Series by various authors, Available on Amazon this fall; SoSo.Den men’s button-down shirt,www.sosoden.afrikea.com HBCU Made 2.0 tee, $30, www.sweetknowledgeclothing.com
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a m a m rand
My G .. . d i a S
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he one thing I loved about my maternal grandmother Rosie is that she gave it to you straigh--no chaser. How many of us could be better human beings if people stopped telling us what we want to hear vs. what we need to hear. We live in a sugar-coated society where people will lie to your face and tell others how they really feel behind your back. What has happened to us? Why aren’t more of us progressing and spending money in our own communities? We have a trillion dollars in spending power but so little of the wealth. We have to do better with our customer service too. We’ve all been guilty of being too consumed with other things and neglected to handle business accordingly. But it’s time we got it together. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Let’s learn the techniques and tricks of the trade the way everyone else does. Take those classes on management, accounting and marketing and bring your A-Game to your customers. Fix it if it’s broken, and try to answer single e-mail. Use those planners. If it isn’t written down, it didn’t (or won’t happen). The pre-fall issue marks a revival. We’ve created a place where our goods can be showcased and appreciated. I am in awe of all of you and what you are doing. It’s unbelievably awesome and inspiring. Let’s keep thriving and exceling. My favorite things to do is look through Instagram and find all of your goods. Thank you to those who send me things and put me on game, you are jewels. I can’t even say I have a favorite, I love so many things in this issue. And the best is yet to come. Be sure to get your submissions in for the party issue. It will hit the hemisphere in late October followed by our holiday preview issue.
a bad My grandma was mamma jamma!
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XOXO, Olayinka Publisher
Peace Loves Me Crystals www.peacelovesmecrystals.com
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THE TEA Publisher’s Letter
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WHAT WE’RE LOVIN’: Our Fall Favorites
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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF....Teka Simone
9 WORKSHOP: Handbag designer Réna
Iman Handbags
11 SPOTLIGHT: Shopowners Changing the Game 12
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COVER STORY: Word on the Sonique... Saturday That Is SHOP DIRECTORY: Support Our Coveted List of Shops SHOP & SAVE: Discounts and Promos From Coveted Shops
18 ART: It Was All a Dream 20 WELLNESS: Indulge Your Bindy Mind &
Spirit: Bath Time Indulgence; Crystal Life
22 TRAVEL: Fall Escapes 24
FASHION & BEAUTY: The Wow Factor
28 LOOKBOOK: A+ Goods 30 HOME: Guest Approved Housewares 31
THE HIT LIST: Gotta-Be-There Events
Graphic Design by OA2 Design Studio
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What We're Lovin'!
FEATURED SHOPS Row 1: Rise Up Tee, $26, www.rahcreation.com, Gold and Black African Beads, $7+, The Waist Bead Shop (Etsy), Fabrice Tardieu Python Sneakers, $450, www.fabricetardieu.com Row 2: Ojuwa Skin Care for men, price avaialble to members only, www.oju-wa.com; Amber Arches Pillow, $65, LolaandMaw.com; Diana Afro Queen Pin, $12, NoireCulture. Row 3: Moisturizing Conditioner, $18, LivSo.com; Pink Himalayan Salt Scrub, $25-$40, Breed Love Beauty Co., Groceries & Shit tote bag, $20, www.square.com/store/stable-22.com
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A Day in the Life of.. Teka Simone Liquid Burnz, Founder I usually wake up around...4:45 a.m. For breakfast I usually have...A boiled egg with toast. I check my phone after...I pray. If I had a spare ten minutes I would...Go to the beach and listen to the ocean waves. When I got my 15th order...I was excited and humbled. Social Media Tool You Can’t Live Without: Instagram. For “work” I usually wear...Jeans and a t-shirt. For lunch I usuaaly have...A fish, tuna or shrimp salad. My footwear of choice is...Nikes and anything by Carlos Santana. I hate it when...It rains at an outdoor event. The person I can always count on is...My grandmother. My best customer moment was when...My customer made an Instagram video about my products and talked about how much she loved my Black Soap Shampoo and Peach Hair Growth Oil. The easiest thing for me is...Making my products. I really enjoy the process from start to finish. If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life. The last thing I bought for myself was...A blouse. The last thing I bought for my business was...Essential oils. By the time it’s rush hour, I’m...Exhausted due to my early work schedule. For dinner it’s usually... I binge watch...Netflix. The last book I read was...The Bible. If I found $20, I’d spend it on...More products for my business. Sometimes I wish I...Had more money and time to work only on my business. The best things in life are...Free. Love to me is...God and giving back. If I were a color I’d be...Blue.
My favorite online shop is...Amazon.
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WORKSHOP
Just a Touch of Luxe... A Little Bit R éna Iman handbags evolved from sticky notes to a full-flegdged company in a short amount of time. Started in Reana Muhammad’s living room in 2015, the socially-conscious brand consists of luxurious handbags affordable while helping end domestic violence, providing aid to countless victims. The classic handbags are all made with care and semi-precious stones, an ode to the precious souls they help. A percentage from every bag sale goes to local and national charities to help change women’s lives and end violence against them. You can find these beauties with a purpose at www.rena-iman. com. Top: Audrey tore in Noir, $225. Laura clutches avaialble in noir, bourdeaux, cognac, and blush, $125 10
SPOTLIGHT
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Facebook: Entrepreneurscolortoo Instagram: @Entrepreneurscolortoo Website: www.entrepreneurscolortoo.com
Instagram: @_maverickavenue Facebook: @1maverickavenuefashion
aToya Nicole is all about inspiring women. She released her 24 Shades of Business coloring book that was an instant hit on Amazon, flying at at #1. The best-selling book has also made it’s way to Barnes and Nobile Stores. The book features inspiring images of black women working. women at work.
ersatility is what Sidiqua Judge was thinking of when she created Maverick Avenue. The brand is a luxury ready-to-wear brand. Simplicity and unique details separate the brand from it’s competitors. The collection is designed for the modern independent women who want professional yet casual pieces. Hard-working ladies who want to enjoy a night on the town will love Maverick Avenue’s timeless pieces.
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rtist Nonie Okoye creates artistic functional pieces that make a statement. Her engaging designs usually begin with a simple sketch but quickly evolve into much more. Each piece has a sotry behind it and Nonie designs with the recipient in mind, paying close attention to detail to capture the subject’s essence. She blends intricate pencil illustrations with digital art to ensure the uniqueness of every design. You can find Nonye’s work in her Etsy shop, Art By Nonye.
Instagram: @artbynonye Facebook: Art by Nonye Pinterest: Art by Nonye Website: www.artbynonye.com
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She's So Fancy
onique Saturday is unbothered. It’s a cool Friday afternoon in the City of Angels and the “Bag Lady” is in her makeshift warehouse/office/loft sorting orders and sipping on a Chai tea latte. A few feet away is her mother and bestie, Detroit’s finest, former hairstylist and current momager Sonia. The O’Neal ladies are working to fill orders, manage a busy calendar and still find their way to do cocktails this evening at a local launch party. In spite of all that’s going on around her, the California slim Sonique hasn’t complained one bit. When she’s not busy customizing her unique bags, she’s jetting away with her fellow entreprenuer beau. Sonique is no ordinary entrepreneur. She wasn’t disenchanted by corporate America. She just wanted to do things her way.
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W
hile attending Albany State University where she majored in Marketing and Entrepreneurship and pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sonique was in search of the perfect bag. Armed with a load of creativity and a desire for something different, Sonique took a trip to Forever 21 and purchased a basic black clutch. She then headed to Michael’s for some inspiration and bought everything from buttons to custom patches and went to work. Having sold bgs to her friends in college, she knew she her designs were great. Finding the right bag--the It Bag was her sole objective and eventually the idea hit her. She tossed traded in her needle and thread for brushes and paint. Leaving Georgia behind, Sonique headed to Los Angeles and worked on her bags. She reinvented her brand painting her first faux Birkin that simply read: Can’t Afford Hermes. “L.A. was inspiring because everyone around me was rich and happy.” The bag was a hit. Photos by Sonique Saturday, Inc. All bags by Sonique Saturday.
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fter being in Los Angeles for nearly two years, Sonique secured a product placement spot with Amber Rose in 2015. The Internet went crazy and she inhaled her first taste of success. Shortly after Amber’s appearance with the bag, she gained an impressive celebrity following which included Christina Milian, Megan Good, Erykah Badu, Tracee Ellis Ross and many more. Her list of celeb supporters continues to grow as does her creativity. The Birkin bag even inclues a plastic collection aptly titled: The Plastic Life. While her handbags continue to amaze many, Sonique hasn’t given up on passion for fashion either. She styles celebrities for magazine shoots and red-carpet events. Her list of clients includes directors F. Gary Gray and John Singleton. Sonique has gotten so busy with her handbags, she’s often finds her time is limited. As she continues to grow, her ultimate goal is to help others fulfill their dreams. Will she ever stop going? Probably not, in fact, she’s just getting started. - O
www.soniquesaturday.com Instagram: @soniquesaturday
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shop directory 228grantstreet.com 24ShadesofBusiness.com Afrohemien Amira Rahim AnitaGrant.com ArtByNonye.com AvaHomeDesign.com* Benjamin Banneker Watches Bevel - GetBevel.com The Black Artz BlaqRoses.com Breedlove Beauty Co. BridgetAwosika.com BrionyaJames.com Brown Estates Winery Cam’s Coffee Creations Carbon-Ar.com CarltonJonesCollection.com ChloeandChad.com Cocoa Made ColorFullXchange.com DevourCandles.com DontSleepInteriors.com* Effies Paper EntrepreneursColorToo.com EnziFootwear.com EssieSpice.com FabriceTardieu.com Fashionlistically*
My Chocolate Curls MyFilibo.com MyTeeSharp.com NoireCulture* Oju-Wa.com Olayinka Beauty Co.* OmiWoods.com OrganicDluxe* OriBee PeaceImages* PeaceLovesMeCrystals.com Pindropnyc.com Rena-Iman.com RootandHope* ScotchPorter.com SoniqueSaturday.com Stable-22 on Squarespace StudioLaTouche SweetOnYouBeauty.com TeamHBCU.org TheLipBar.com TiffanyAmberng.com Unique Designs By Zee UrbanSerenite.com Ushindi22* Wire Queen Jewelry Zashadu.com
GetLuvKrazy.com GHughesSugarFree.com Herosawraps IkireJones.com J. Arthur Skin Care Systems for Men JewelryWithMe* JDreamStudio.com JobimClothing.com KayDavisArtist.com KweensJewelryBox* LisaFolawiyo.com LMOriginalDesigns* MakiOh.com Maverick Avenue Clothing MikiMont Creations Miss Pretty Perfect ModishDecorPillows.com
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ESTY BLACK & eB l ac k C o l l e c t i v e
PROMOS & COUPONS
JobimClothing.com has beautiful headwraps and bonnets made with African print fabrics. Get 10% off your order plus free shipping on your entire orderwith the code: HEYJOBIM10
Treat your tresses with ColorFull XChange’s Tess’ Oil Belnd. It provides calming, soothing rejuvenation to the hair and scalp with a blend of essential, avocado and tea tree oils. Save 30% off your purchase with the code: BLACK18. Expired 9/22/18.
Power to the people. Save 15% off any order at MyFilibo.com where you’ll find conscious minded pins and patches to keep you woke. Use code: ETSYBLACK, expires 11/30/18.
Get fun home accents from Ava Home Design. The shop is filled with pieces that will add some pizazz to your interior design. Get 11% off your purchase with the code: FALLSAVE. Expired 9/30/18. Instagram: @avafluff
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ART
N
It Was All A Dream
ot many girls realize their dreams when they are six years old, but from the moment LaZetta Bryant, known to her fans as J. Dream Studio picked up a brush, she knew fine art was in her future. The Houstonian launched her home-based “studio” in 2010 and hasn’t stopped since. Bryant graduated from the exclsuvie High School for Performing and Visual Arts that yields notable alumni like songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox, jazz drummer Kendrick Scott and Beyoncé. She earned a degree in graphic design from the Art Institute of Houston and worked as an in-house designer until her passion came calling. “For a second I thought I could do event planning or photography,” Bryant says. “But I actually hated it.” She liked the ability to conceptualizing and design events, but it was art that had already captured her heart. She’s spent 12 years gaining knowledge and skill in in digital design which expands her capabilities and enhances her creativity. Getting paid for her artwork was something that came easily. A fellow classmate paid her to do their art homework. doing something she loved.
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It was then Bryant realized she could earn And she never runs out of ideas either. Creating artwork means diligence, focus and patience. Every stroke is meaningful. “I use various tools and mediums to execute with the highest level of craftsmanship.” Working with abstract’s is Bryant’s favorite thing to do. She enjoys using acrylic, resin and glitter to create her pieces that can take up to two weeks to complete depending on the size. When it comes to promoting her work, she attends events like RAW Houston where local artists can showcase their work to new audiences. She hopes to expand and reach more customers by diversifying shows. Selling online is her primary source of revenue. Like any great artist, no one can predict what she’ll do next. We’re excited so we’ll just have to wait and see.
Instagram: @j.dreamstudio Facebook: @jdreamstudio Web: www.jdreamstudio.com
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WELLNESS
Indulge Your Body, Mind & Spirit Reinvigorate With a Hot Bath
Taking a long hot bath is a luxury many of us rarely get to enjoy. The hustle and bustle of day-to-day life often prevents us from taking time to do the little things. Submerging yourself in a tub of water at the end of the day is more relaxing than taking a swim in ocean on a warm summer day. Hydrotherapy has been done for centuries and can alleviate muscle strain and remove impurities from the body. Bathing also helps you breathe easier and improve your mood. To create your ideal relaxation space, indulge in a few of our recommended goodies: Top to Bottom: 228 Grant Street Candle Co. Cedar + Vanilla Candle, $20, www.228grantstreet.com; Anita Grant luxury Vanilla Body Oil, www.anitagrant.com; $12.81, Urban Serenite Floral Bath Soak, www.urbanserenite.com, $30; Bevel men’s skin care mini-bundle, $10., www.getbevel.com.
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Crystal Life
Amethyst
Crystals have been used for their beauty and healing qualities. It has been said that stones produce energy that is beneficial to our well being. If you’re new to understanding crystals, you’ll want to become familiar with these: The Amethyst has been a fixture in religious and royal jewelry. This stone is much like the crown chakra, connecting to heaven and spiritual freedom. It’s been known to heal tension headaches and eyestrainand when moistened and rubbed over blemishes, helps soothe irritation. Citrine is known for it’s sunny disposition and has been known to relieve symptoms of depression, selfdoubt and anger. If you need a boost in your finances or professional success, keep this stone on your desk and in your wallet. Citrine corresponds to the Solar-Lexus chakra. Moonstone is a gentle, soul-soothing stone. It’s been known to bring calm and peace to the wearer and helps to get rid of negative energy. Moonstone is the ultimate stone for healing yourself. Need a little love in your life? Rose quartz helps to attract and restore love. Pale pink to rosy in color, this stone helps to manifest unconditional love and forgiveness. It is belived to help promote fertility and support the lungs and kidneys. Smoky quartz helps you ground and center you. It is helpful with removing negativity energy andhelping you reach your full potential. It’s cheaper than therapy and also helps remove painful memories from your past.
Citrine
Moonstone
Cleanse your crystals: Rinse them briefly with warm water and sea salt. Cleanse your crystals every time you use them but never use soap! Charge your crystals: Place it in your left hand and cover it with your right. Close your eyes and set your intention. What are you hoping to achieve? Think to yourself about what your purpose is.
Rose Quartz
Meditation: Meditation is the act of hearing connecting with a higher power and channeling your thoughts. Find a quiet space, light your incense and hold your crystal. For a higher connection burn sage or palo santo.
Peace Loves Me Crystals Instagram: @peacelovesmecrystals Website: www.peacelovesmecrystals.com
Smoky Quartz
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Fall Escapes
TRAVEL
Summer’s almost over but the phone doesn’t have to be. Fall travel takes on a whole new meaning when you plan with a purpose. Head west to California to the family-owned Brown Estates Winery. Founded in 1996, the first black-owned winery in Napa Valley boasts an impressive collection of wine and scenery. Last year the family opened a the Brown Downtown tasting room, Schedule your resrvations at www. brownestates.com. New Orleans is always a good place to visit. Aside from Cafe du Monde’s mouthwatering beignets, Drago’s grilled oysters, and Dooky Chase’s Creole gumbo, you can watch Grambling State and Southern University battle it out on the field during the game and Battle of the Bands. Watch the locafraternities and sororities try to out stomp each other at the greek show. www.mybayouclassic.com. Nobody parties like the folks in Miami. The annual Carnival Parade and Concert is a for sure turn-up complete with good food, music and dance. The elaborate costumes are just part of the fun. Book your trip. www.miamibrowardcarnival.com.
Hop to it. Need to save money on flights? Download the Hopper app to find the best flight at the lowest price for your travels.
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FASHION & BEAUTY
The Wow Factor Fashion for the not-so-faint-at-heart. Beauty products to indulge all of your senses.
Details: 1. Scotch & Porter Charcoal & Licorice Facial Skin Care Collection, $45, 2. Breedlove Beauty Co. Pure Organic Jojoba Oil, $18, 3. Print dress by Lisa Folawiyo, 4. Baggy pants by Carlton Jones Collection, 5. Cross stitch dress by Tiffany Amber, 6. Trench coatby Maki Oh, 7. Dragon Slayer men’s jacket, by Ikiré Jones, 8. Understudy lizard print handbag by Zashadu 9. Playmate lip color by The Lip Bar, 10. Strawberry Milkshake Sugar Whipped Soap by Sweet On You Beauty Bakery 11. Nkrumahs burgundy shoes, Enzi Footwear.
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A+Goods
1. Chloe+Chad Relaxing Bath Soak with Coconut, $32, www.chloeandchad.com, 2. Spirit Card, $6.50, www.kaleidadope.com, 3. The Moor Hotel, New Orleans, www.stayhomage.com, 4.Edel Heiss Sparkling White Wine, $19.99, www.edelheiss-wine.com, 5. Benjamin Banneker Watches Baller burnt orange leather watch, $195, www.bannekerstore. com, 6. Poinciana Classic Weekender, $510, ZAAF Collection, 7. Backpack, $58, BrownKidsWagcom Etsy Shop, 8.Phillip Ashley Signature Chocolates, $49, www.phillipashleychocolates.com, 9. Summer’s Over nail polish collection, $44, www.pearnova.com, 10. Calla Headwrap, $48, Herosawraps Etsy Shop, 11. Bow-Tie Brandon Notebook, $8.50, www.moemelanin.com, 12. Black Girl Magic Trio, $70, PeaceImages Etsy Shop.
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lookbook
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HOME
Guest Approved Housewares
Details: Andile Dyalvane vase, price upon request, www.imisoceramics.co.za; African Boutik Sipping Tea (Or Coffee) Mugs; Aphrochic Kuba Lumbar pillow, $145, www.oluwacelestin.com, Christine Joy Design Glyph peel and stick wallpaper, $29, www.wallternatives.com.
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The Hit List
Open your calendar and add these dates for our approved gotta-be-there events. SEPTEMBER 1-2
African American Cultural Festival Raleigh, NC
1-3
Black Family Day Stockton, CA
19-23
Urbanworld Film Festival New York, NY
21-23 Nashville African Street Festival Nashville, TN
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Black Owned Wines & Spirits Festival Washington, D.C.
OCTOBER Baltimore Inernational Black Film Festival Baltimore, MD
2-8
Atlanta Black Theatre Festival Atlanta, GA
3-6
Oakland Black Cowboy Parade Oakland, CA
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Silicon Valley Film Festival San Jose, CA Miami Broward County Caribbean Carnival Miami, FL National Black Book Festival Houston, TX
4-7 7 25-27 NOVEMBER 3
The 2nd Annual African-American Booklovers Expo Atlanta, GA North Carolina A&T University Homecoming Greensboro, NC
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Alabama State University vs. Mississippi Valley State University
24 Bayou Classic New Orleans, Louisiana
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www.TeamHBCU.org HBCU Students Need Your Support. HBCUS Need Your Support. Donate Today.