August 2016 Nigerian issue

Publisher

Ford Johnson Publishing, LLC Marketing Director

Desmen Johnson

Layout Creator

Rachelle Ford

Senior Editor

Rose Zachary Writers

Rachelle Ford Michael Lamb Cornell Bunting Dj Samore Fancy JusBlack Davis Angel Soto Candace Michelle Contributors DJ Samore Cover Designed by

Rachelle Ford Contact Us

Inquiry@FordEntmag.info 302-313-6734 www.FordEntMag.info

Follow us: Letter from the Editor, It’s August!!! And it’s Leo Season! Annnnnd it’s one of our favorite Leo’s birthday this month! Our very own Tru Wiz (Desmen Johnson), Co-owner of Ford Johnson Publishing and publisher of Ford Ent Magazine. My left hand (coz I’m his right), my driver (as I ride on the passenger side), I’m pinky, he’s the brain. This company and this magazine has seen so much growth since he’s stepped into the folds, bringing in structure and organization to the whole situation. He pitches, I bat.

I pitch, he bats. True partnership and this company couldn’t ask for a better leader. Here’s a story all about how two best friends built a publishing empire and took over the world. (Working on the intro to our biography success story). Anyways, I could go on and on but I won’t. Thank you for being the captain on this ship. Again, Happy Happy birthday!

- Rachelle Ford

@FordEntMag Ford Johnson Publishing LLC Ford Entertainment Magazine © 2016 by Ford Entertainment Magazine.

All Rights Reserved Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Ford Entertainment Magazine is a registered trademark of Ford Johnson Publishing, LLC. Printed and published in the United States of America.

ISBN-13: 978-1517220457 ISBN– 10: 1517220459

In This Issue: Blog Spot

05 NEGUS IN FLORIDA:

06

07

08

Cover Stories

YCEE

THE MYTH OF THE ABSENT BLACK FATHER TRUWISDOM: FATHERLESS SONS: THE ALARMING FACTS PARENTING FROM PRISON: CLASS IS IN SESSION BLACK EXCELLENCE: JANIAH SIMMONS 11YRS OLD & DRIVEN BEYOND HER YEARS

NIGERIA TO AMERICA MUSIC THAT SPANS ACROSS CONTINENTS

Pg 13 Beauty of The Month

Pg 16

Music News

10 MEN LIE/WOMEN LIKE/NUMBERS DONT:

LIL KIM VS NICKI MINAJ

11

DJ SAMORE’S TOP 5

Top 5 Records of the month of July 2016

12 Q&A WITH NIGERIA’S OWN QSBERG 24 THE THEFT OF AMERICA’S CREATIVE WORK Beauty Beat 16 FASHIONABLE OR QUESTIONABLE:

20

DASHIKI ME CRAZY BEAUTY BEAT:

Hair: Products for Natural Hair under $10 Nails: Let’s Nail a Trip To Africa Barber: Q&A with YoYo The Barber Beauty: Shea Butter is The Secret

In The News

22 IN THE NEWS

25

Human Interest

DR PETER NDIANGUI: INTELLECTUAL WARRIOR

July 2016

Life/Relationship

Pg 25

Real One: Fighting For Love

www.Fordentmag.info

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BlogSpot

Negus In Florida

The Myth Of The Absent Black Father

The stereotype of the black “absent father” is a long and tired narrative that has haunted the black community for as long as our history here in America stretches, and perhaps the correlation between the slave trade that brought us here and the aforementioned stereotype is the root of the problem. Although by most historical accounts family structure among slaves was very similar to our ideas of family now [husband, wife, and children], slaves weren’t legally allowed to be “married”. They lived as man and wife, and called each other husband and wife, but because they were considered property, they were subject to being sold or disposed of at any time, at a moment’s notice, even if it disrupted a family unit or separated a father from his children and wife. These patterns of disruption may have contributed to the exit of the father in black communities. Over time, they have morphed into a presumed action, which gave birth to the stereotype.

Other contributors to this lopsided parenting dynamic, which must not be ignored, are the The Crack Era and subsequent War on Drugs. Related, and equally responsible. The crack era, at its height in the early 80s, hit the community like a typhoon on a small village on a remote island. Those of us born or raised in the 80s didn’t escape the lingering effects of either the drug or the subsequent ‘War on Drugs’ that followed. We saw a lot unfair sentencing practices that stole

fathers from their homes for years, decades, or for life. If the Crack didn’t get you, then the system definitely did.

So, between the disruption of the family dynamic during slavery and the crack epidemic that infiltrated us like Pookie in the Carter, the extraction and absence of the father became commonplace. Or at Breaking Stereotypes: Father Charles Venus spending quality summer time with his son. least the stereotype would have you to believe it. household with their children under As with many stereotypes, there is 5, but that’s a story for another issue. some truth behind this one. I myself As my 4 year old son rests his elbows am the product of a single mother uncomfortably in my back, asking ever household. However, the narrative so impatiently, “Daddy are you done is DATED if not downright WRONG. yet?”, I finish this article. I spend time Studies show that around 67% of with my so. Because it’s never too late black fathers who don’t live with their to be a FATHER. kids see them at least once a month. Sincerely yours, and ankh my heart The same study, using white dads put and hope to die, a Negus and a Father, them at about 59% (Pew Research and who needs to wrap this up because the CDC). A study from the Nation- he promised Jahaziel they would go al Center for Health Statistics found feed the ducks. that almost 35% of black fathers read to their children daily, as opposed Jus’ Black to about 30% of white fathers. This demonstrates that we are actively engaged in our children’s maturation and education. The numbers show that perhaps black fathers are more present, and engaged, than stereotypes would have us believe. Black fathers are also more likely to live in the www.NegusInFlorida.com

BlogSpot

Fatherless Sons The Alarming Facts

85%

of all children that exhibit behavioral disorders come from fatherless homes

71% 75%

of all adolescent patients in chemical abuse centers come from fatherless homes

70%

90%

TruWisdom

of all homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes

of all high school dropouts come from fatherless homes

63%

of youth suicides are from fatherless homes

of juveniles in state-operated institutions come from fatherless homes

Children In Fatherless Homes

5 times more likely to commit suicide 32 times more likely to run away 20 times more likely to have behavioral disorders 14 times more likely to commit rape 9 times more likely to drop out of high school 10 times more likely to abuse chemical substances

THE NATIONAL VOICE OF FAMILIES PROTECTING FAMILIES FROM THE FAMILY COURT SYSTEM

BlogSpot Parenting From Prison

Class is In Session According

to Susan Sparks, an author for Education Week, “Without ever breaking a school rule or getting a low grade, 2.7 million American students are already further along the pipeline to prison than their classmates—simply because they have a parent who is behind bars.

Studies show that parental incarceration can be more traumatic to students than even a parent’s death or divorce,, and the damage it can cause to students’ education, health, and social relationships puts them at higher risk of one day going to prison themselves. In many schools, that circumstance is a hidden problem, hard for teachers to track, and challenging for students and caregivers to discuss.”

I don’t know about you, but for me those words were hard to swallow - like a double sided sandwich made with canned government peanut butter and no powdered milk to chase it down.

Ask yourself, when you named your child at birth, did you think your actions as an adult would change the name of your child? How, you ponder? Once they pass the intake desk of the prison system, they are no longer Jermaine Scott Jr. or

Cierra Tobler, they become inmate number 19438017 or 15294018. I am sure that didn’t run across your mind when you held your baby for the first time.

Did your dad do this to you and his dad to him?

Fathers, we are not writing this to tear you down, but to empower you. We are reaching out to help you, to stifle the flow of our children walking past that intake desk of even the county jail. It is with the hope that the tools I share with you in this article will build you up to be an active father while you are physically away. A father who will bequeath to his children a legacy of hope and prosperity to pass down for generations to come. To be a father you are proud to be, and one your children are proud to have.

Fathers, I will give you monthly assignments, to help facilitate or restore (and keep) the bond between you and your children during your sabbatical. Be prepared to become emotional, and to be mentally naked with yourself and your kids. There will be an assignment that will make you will say, “This chick is crazy”. Yes, yes I am. I am crazy because our babies are outnumbering the elderly in our grave-

yards, and I don’t want you all sharing a cell.

You ready? I am going to give you to the count of ten to come out of hiding, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7... Nah, let’s go.

I sincerely hope you will go on this journey with me. As women, we want our men to stand in their rightful place as leaders! It is your place to raise up the children, your place to show Part I- Man in the Mirror them obstacles are roadAssignment blocks, not dead ends!

1. Illustrate what a “man” looks like to you? (Draw him out). How does he dress, how does he stand? What is his body build?

2. Describe in 10 words or less how a man should conduct himself?

3. Can you distinguish between the man you want to be and the man you are?

4. What choices did you make that you wish you could change now?

5. Do you think this assignment is worth it?

With Hope, Candace Michelle P.S. Nearly 85% of the children who face trial in the juvenile court system are functionally illiterate, proving that there is a close relationship between illiteracy and crime. More than 60% of all inmates are functionally illiterate.

Next month’s issue will have a book list and discussion question which you and your child can read together! #FatherYouAre

Part II- Peek a Boo Write a letter to your child and ask them these same questions. When they write you back, I want you to reflect upon their answers. Be naked with yourself. Have you done the best you could as a father? If not, what are you going to do to change it? Tell them how you feel?

Candace Michelle is an author, blogger, notary, and wedding officiant. To view more of her work, visitwww.CandaceMichelle.net

Sparks, S. (2015, February 24). Parents' Incarceration Takes Toll on Children, Studies Say. Retrieved July 25, 2016, from http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2015/02/25/parents-incarceration-takes-toll-on-children-studies.html

BlogSpot Black Excellence

Janiah Simmons

11yrs Old & Driven Beyond Her Years The editors of Ford Ent Magazine recently saw a Facebook post that immediately caught our attention. It was a post from a proud father congratulating his 11 year old daughter for saving up her money to start her own vending machine business. We were so impressed by the drive and incredible mindset of this young woman, that we decided to speak to her directly.

Then at the end of the summer, when we go on vacation, I wouldn’t spend my money, I would save it.

Was it ever hard for you to decide between saving the money and spending it when you We’re here because we saw a story saw something you reon Facebook, that you had your own ally wanted? vending machine, and we were super No, because if there impressed. And we wanted to come was something I really and tell you that in person. Now, how wanted, I would ask my did you think of the idea to get your dad and he would just get it. I get what I want own vending machine? as long as I get good grades.

I thought of the idea last year, while working at my father’s shop. I saw What grade are you in? And what is that his customers would be hun- your favorite subject? gry while waiting when we were jam I’m going in the 6th grade and math. packed and busy. So then I spoke to my friend’s mom, who told me I could Is that what you want to do when you grow up? Own your own business? buy one off of Craigslist and I looked No. I want to do WWE Wrestling. on Craigslist and found one.

How did you save up?

I would come to work with my dad in the summer and get paid for working.

Why Wrestling?

Because you get to travel and entertian people. And they love it.

We also caught up with dad...

You like performing, like singing etc..?

No, I like sports. Karate, soccer, basketball and track. I like Karate the best because I earn medals and go to competitions.

Do you realize you’re not your typical 11year olds?

I do. Because most of the regular 11 year old like to play video games and just hang out. But me, I like to work with my dad.

What are you saving for next?

A soda machine! (laughs)

You’re obviously super proud of your daughter, can you tell us a little about her?

I’m definately excited and proud of her. She’s better than me when I was 11.

She was observant and independent, even at a young age.

What is the secret to raising such a well-rounded daughter?

Starts with having a great relationship with your child. She’s my daughter, but she is also human, so you have to listen to them and be able to talk about anything. You have to love them beyond yourself. Be there to praise them when they are good and there to have their back when they are bad.

Timi Blaze-The Next Big Thing On The Nigerian Rap Scene ?

With two critically acclaimed mixtapes credited to this young rapper, producer, and creative media guru, Dawodu Oluwadurotimi a.k.a. Timi Blaze is indeed taking rap music in Nigeria to greater heights. Known for his noteworthy rap skills and infectious beats, he is arguably one of Lagos’ hottest young producer / rapper / ringer / audio engineers. Timi Blaze began exploring his musical talents in his high school days, playing drums and singing in the school choir. He began producing music right after leaving high school. He is a multi-instrumentalist and a very talented artist, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Timi Blaze is currently working with artists both local and abroad, with up-and-comers and superstars, and is gradually making his mark on the industry. His most recent mixtape, ‘The Genius Tape’, features Timi Blaze rapping over chart topping hits from Nigeria and beyond, offering super charged rap renditions of Justin Bieber’s ‘Love Yourself ‘ (styled ‘Knack yourself’), Wizkid’s ‘Ojuelegba’, and Tory Lanez’s ‘Say It ‘. These tracks are well on their way to going viral, gathering thousands of views on social media. With his unique rhyming and producing skills, Timi Blaze is surely one to watch out for, and he is definitely gunning for a top spot in the Nigerian Music Scene.

-Artist submitted

The land of Zamundo was a faraway land, inhabited only by animals, and ruled over with grace by a large but gracious lion, King Geoffie, along with his wife, Queen Safara. Life was good for the King and Queen, except for one looming cloud - they had no heir to take over the throne. Without an heir, the crown would be placed on the head of King Geoffie’s evil younger brother, Victus, who would certainly destroy the peace and harmony of the land.

While deeply asleep one night, Queen Safara received a promise from the gods, that she would, one day soon, have a cub.

But, this promise came with responsibility. She and the King would need to believe in the cub’s ability, and teach him to believe in himself, because the he would be born without a roar, and in order to find the powerful voice that would lead the land, he would have to overcome many challenges.

As foretold by the gods, in early spring, the cub, Buptavius was born. Although he was a well-liked cub, with a great circle of little lion friends, his uncle Victus knew about his missing voice and plotted to expose his weakness, to shame Buptavius, and drive him from the pride.

Will Buptavius find the confidence and ability to overcome his uncle’s schemes? Can he discover his inner strength, his roar?

Music News

Men Lie/Women Lie/Numbers Don’t

What started the beef? According to Complex: “Nicki caught our attention, and turned many heads when she dropped her ‘Sucka Free’ mixtape in ’08. It wasn’t just the music that made waves, however - it was also the highly sexual cover that was an obvious homage ode to Lil’ Kim’s infamous promotional posters from her 1996 debut album, ‘Hard Core’.

Whether it was her intention or not, the image made Nicki seem like she wanted to be the new Lil’ Kim, which led to comparisons between the two female rappers.”

(Complex.com) "Every time you in the news, it's 'cause you gettin' at somebody!

“If you are going to steal my swag, you gonna have Where's your music? Put your music out, and when I see your name to pay. Something gotta give. You help me, I help on Billboard, that's when I'll respond to you. Other than that, goodyou. That's how it goes to me.” bye. It's Barbie, bitch.

Billboard Lil’ Kim’s debut studio album, Hard Core (1996) Minaj’s first and second studio albums, was certified double platinum by the RecordPink Friday (2010) and Pink Friday: Roing Industry Association of America (RIAA) and man Reloaded (2012), both peaked at spawned three consecutive No. 1 rap hits: “No number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 Time”, “Not Tonight (Ladies Night remix)”, and and produced the successful singles “Crush on You”, a record for a female rapper. Her “Super Bass” and “Starships”, respecfollowing albums, The Notorious K.I.M. (2000) tively. In 2010, Minaj became the first and La Bella Mafia (2003), were certified Platifemale solo artist to have seven singles num, making her the only female rapper besides simultaneously charting on the U.S. BillMissy Elliott to have at least 3 platinum albums. board Hot 100. Her third studio album, She was featured on the single “Lady MarmaThe Pinkprint (2014), was preceded by lade”, which also had guest vocals by fellow reits second single, “Anaconda”, which cording artists Mýa, Pink, and Christina Aguilera, peaked at number two on the Hot 100 which went to No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot and is her highest-charting single in the 100.

U.S. to date.

Awards MVPA: 4 VH1 Hip Hop Awards: 1 American Music Awards: 6 SoulTrain Awards: 1 Soul Train: 2 MTV Video Awards: 3 BET Awardds: 10 Teen Choice: 4 Teen Choice: 1 ASCAP Awards: 4 BET Hip Hop Awards: 7 MTV Europe Music: 3 Source: 2 Billboard: 1 Billboard Music Awards: 3 People Choice Awards: 2 VH1: 3 BDB Spin Awards: 6 MTV Video Music Awards: 3 Grammy: 1 MTV Video Japan: 1 Ventures Beyong Music -MAC Cosmetics: Pink 4 Friday Lipstick -Watch Collection “Royalty” -Nail Polish Collection for Opi Products -Clothing Line: Hollyhood -Mattel Custom Barbie -”Purple Vodka -Clothing Line: Nicki Minaj Collection -Business: Salon Se Swa -Beats Pink Pill Speakers - Clothing Line: 24/7 Goddess -Myx Fusions (part owner) -Fragrance: Pink Friday, Minajesty, Onika -Co-owner of Tidal

Lil Kim

Nicki Minaj

Music News

DJ Samore

Top5

Top 5 Summer 16

Top 5 Records of the month of July 2016 , according to Urban Radio Mediabase/BDS Charts, the streets, clubs, and of course DJ Samore, Make sure you tune in to the Urban Experience weekly for each week top 5 records of the week.

1

Beyonce- Sorry

2

Tory Lanez- Luv

5 Dj Khaled ft Future & JayzI Got The Keys

4

YFN Lucci ft Migos & Trouble- Key To The Streets

JUNE’S DIARY - L.A.N.C.E. DJ DRAMA - WISHING For more on the urban experience and dj samore , check out sourbanentertainment.com and Da one radio on dadecountyradio.com over 40k loyal listeners on the radio station, monitoredbyradiowavemonitor.com. monitored by radiowavemonitor.com

sourbanentertainment.com

3

Usher ft Yung Thug- No Limit

Quick Q&A With Nigeria’s own

Qsberg

Q: How long have you been making music?

A: Well, I’ve been putting out music for about 5 years now, since about 2011. First I put out a single called ‘Take Her Higher’, with Kali B, that was in December 2013. After that I’ve been, you know, putting music online and performing here in Nigeria.

Q: Is there a difference between American Hip Hop and African Hip Hop? Can you elaborate on that?

A: Yes, one of the differences between American and African Hip hop is the tightly woven respect for women in African Hip Hop, due to our culture.

Q: Tell us about your music, what kind of flow can we expect A: I’m going to summarize my music style as radical and unorthodox, and the kind of flow to expect is unpredictable.

Q: What project are your currently working on?

A: I’m presently working on my album, and in the process of getting the videos done for singles... and there are going to be a lot more domestic and international collaborations coming out.

Q: What does music mean to you?

A: Music is far from just a sound for my ears, it’s beauty even to a deaf man, it can never disappear. Wherever I am, with the music, I’m again right here. I feel it on my skin, it caresses my neck, my cheek. If I don’t hear music, my day will be long as a week. It can shake me, it can break me. It can provoke me and awake me. Music can do much more, in that I’m very sure. It can turn me at last to be emotional, happy, to be the best.

Q: Where can we find more on your music?

A: My music is everywhere: iTunes/YouTube/SoundCloud: Qsberg, or you save the stress and just Google me. I’m Qsberg on all social media platforms, videos coming soon, be on the look out for me!

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I want to start by saying, I love how you incorporate traditional American Hip Hop with a blend of African culture in the mix, especially in the videos. Did that just happen naturally, or is that something you set out to do?

distinct, seeing as there’s a bunch of other YC’s out there. So, in 2015 “YCEE” came about.

I would say it was something I specifically set out to do, ‘cause when I initially started out, most people felt I was trying so hard to sound foreign. So, the idea to add some African culture to the mix makes the music acceptable locally.

I would say so far, coming out as the Rookie of The Year at the 2015 edition of the Headies in Nigeria meant a lot to myself and my label, ‘cause it shows the work we put in that year You took a break before didn’t go unnoticed. releasing “Condo” back in 2014. Was it always a plan Records show that you to return to music? studied Marine Biology.

What interested you in that Music is something I’ve alparticular subject? ways enjoyed doing, and during the break period I I’d have to say, the fact that was still recording music it provides qualification to underground, trying to face work in various other sec- school, and also working on tors, not only in the study of re-branding and redefining marine life. [That] was one [of] my sound. So there was of the things that caught my always the plan to return attention. to the music scene at some point in time.

I love your single “Jagaban”.

Can you tell me how the Tell us a little bit about your concept for the song came upbringing. about?

I was raised in an extendThanks a lot. I think Jagaban ed family around my mum, came as a result of my de- grandparents, uncles, and sire to put out a song that aunties. It was pretty much a was a lot more indigenous tight knit setting. My grandthan my previous single dad was ex-military, so I had (which was Condo featur- my fair share of discipline ( ing Patoranking), ‘cause a I was pretty mischievous, so lot of people listened, and it might have been a little couldn’t tell if I was Nigeri- bit more than “fair share” an or not. I guess it served lol). But my upbringing its purpose, ‘cause it basi- played an important role in cally became a street an- my views, and choices as an them nationwide. older individual.

I was watching your “Panda” remix, and your flow reminds me a lot of Chicago (USA) rap. How much influence does American music have on your style?

American music has been a major influence for me. I grew up listening to it, and also looking up to rappers like Lil Wayne, Drake, and Kanye West, and wanting to be as big and successful as they were.

Tell me about your artist name ‘YCEE’. What does it mean, and what made you decide to adopt that name?

Well, I used to be known as just “YC”, which initially stood for Yung Crack, but had to change it to Yung Carter (‘cause of drug related references). CARTER, in turn, being an acronym for “Crazy Advanced Rapper Terrorizing Every Rapper”.

Then, I had to add 2 E’s to YC, so it could be a lot more

You’ve won several awards in your music career, which meant the most to you and why?

Can you explain the title “Jagaban” to us?

Well, Jagaban traditionally means “Leader of Warriors”. It was a title given to Bola Ahmed Tinubu (former Governor of Lagos State) during his younger years as a senator, by the Emir of Kano at the time. Over the years, the younger generation basically related it to a sort of influential boss figure

I read somewhere that if you weren’t doing music, you’d be playing football.

Is that American football or what we call soccer?

Yeah, it’s what you call soccer. Growing up for me, soccer was the major sport that the majority of Nigeria loved and took part in. I’ve been playing ever since I could remember, but couldn’t pursue a career down that lane. I still play for fun from time to time.

A lot of artists in music have a goal to “Make it”. Do you feel as tho you’ve made it?

Not quite, looking at all there is to achieve in the music industry, I don’t think I’ve started yet ‘cause the world has still yet to see what I have to offer.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned so far from the music industry?

My biggest lesson would have to be patience. ‘Cause I had been at it for almost 4 years before I began to get recognition. If I hadn’t been as patient as I was, I don’t think we’d be having this interview right now.

How does it feel to know that there are people across the world, such as ourselves, who are in love with your music?

It feels absolutely great, and it’s also very encouraging, pushing me to keep working until I gain a wider audience - both home and abroad.

Beauty Of The Month

ADESUYI OMOTOMILOLA ROSEMARY

I chose modeling as a profession because I want to have a sense of achievements.

I want to discover my strength and perfect them, discover my weaknesses and transform them into strength.

I have always had a soft spot for modeling.

SWFL’s Hot Spot

Lounge

Centrally located in Ft Myers, FL at the corner of Colonial Blvd and U.S. 41, V Lounge is your go-to italian oasis when that craving hits. Convenient located directly accross from the mall, and within walking distance from hotels, and a variety of stores, its the perfect resting shop if you need a quick food break during errands.

With a menu filled with the finest Italian cuisine, a 5-star

2158 Colonial Blvd #1 Fort Myers FL 33907

Photo Credit: Adrian Mata Photography

chef, classy decor and great music, whether on a date or grabbing lunch, this place can accomodate either vibe. Not only a full time restaurant, but V Lounge transforms in the evenings into one of SWFL’s hottest spots to be if great music, great people, and a great time is what is on your agenda that evening. The best part, the kitchen remains open! Owned by Spinmaster Viani himself, who’s no stranger to clubs and he got

his start in the business many years ago. Owning multiple clubs, from Las Vegas to New York, Spinmaster VIani knows just the right formula to provide a superior experience.

Hosted by some of the areas greatest DJs, spining a variety of today’s hottests sounds, no matter the genre, V lounge should be your destination for any occasion.

Great Music Exceptional Italian Dining Experience Centrally Located

Beauty Beat

Fashionable or Questionable

Dashiki me Crazy

Dashikis are seeming to be the new wave! Although, there is nothing new in regards to This trend. The dashiki is a colorful garment for men widely worn in West Africa and also worn in other parts of Africa. According to Africa Imports “The dashiki found a market in America during the Black cultural and political struggles in the 1960s. The dashiki rebelled against men’s fashions of that time: brightly colored instead of drab, loose instead of tight, worn outside the pants instead of tucked in. It could be worn defiantly on occasions that normally would call for a coat and tie. The dashiki was worn as a way to protest society’ s disrespect for African Americans. It was a symbol of affirmation, it stood for “black is beautiful,” and signaled a return to African roots, and insistence on full rights in American society. (Africaimports.com) Dashiki is a Yoruba word that means shirt. The cap worn with a dashiki is call a kufi. Sokoto is the Yoruba word for trousers, and is worn with a dashiki. They are not named after the city of Sokoto, in Nigeria. A prototype was developed in 1967 by Jason Benning, Milton Clarke, Howard Davis, and William Smith. These young professionals formed a company called New Breed to produce dashikis. It was located in a 2-room clothing store at 147th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue in the Harlem section of Manhattan. (Adunagow.net)

Fashionable

Questionable There’s really no right or wrong way to wear the Dashiki, but it does fall under a questionable move when you are misappropriating said Dashiki as Elle Canada recently did by branding the African staple the “newest IT item”.

This tweet angered many and overall reactions can all be summed up as @bravura_Beck’s tweet: “Hi @ElleCanada Ensure your social This African garb is fairly inexpensive. For example, the items shown about range media team is well traveled & educatfrom $12-$27 from Africaimports.com. And as you can see, the styles range ed. The Dashiki has BEEN “IN”. How from pants sets, to shirts, to shorts sets, etc...the fabric is also made into scarves, #ignorant dresses, hats and many more styles. Check your local listings for sellers.

Beauty Beat

Hair

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Beauty Beat

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a c i r f A

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Beauty Beat

Quick Q&A With

r e b r a B e h T o Y o Y

Barber

How long have you been a barber? 7 Years

What made you choose that profession? I love the freedom to express my self through my clippers. I truly enjoy making people look and feel good.

Do you have a speciality? If yes, what is it? My specialty is my modern freestyle designs and beard work but I’m pretty well rounded in all aspects of barbering.

Describe to me the relationship a barber has with his clients. - A barber has two main goals, make his client feel as good as he looks and look as good as he feels. It’s not enough to just give some one a good haircut but to make them feel cool, comfortable and confident.

Beauty Beat

Beauty

Shea Butter is the Secret The most well known beauty secret from West Africa is the popular Shea Butter used increasingly in organic and natural skincare. Shea butter originates from the Karite Nut tree, also called the Mangifolia tree, found in the semi-arid savannahs of West and Central Africa.

The women of West Africa have been using shea butter for centuries.

The Karite Nut tree, which can live for 300 years, is often dubbed the “tree of life” by African women who make this precious butter by hand. Almost all parts of the tree have some practical use. The bark is an ingredient in traditional medicines against certain childhood illnesses and minor scrapes and cuts.

The shell of the nuts can repel mosquitoes. Above all, because it is completely non-toxic and gentle, the fruity part of the nut, when crushed, yields a vegetable oil that can be used in soap-making, cooking, and skin and hair care.

The process of making shea butter, or karite, is long and arduous for the women of Africa. They awake early and trek up to 15 km (9 mi) to collect the fruits of the Karite Nut tree. With up to 40 kg (88 lbs) of fruits upon their heads, the women and children head back to the village to begin the process of extracting the butter from the kernel of the fruit. The pits are first removed from the fruit, boiled, sun-dried and finally roasted. When the pits have been completely dehydrated, they are handcrushed. This laborious work takes an average of 20 hours to produce 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of shea butter. Shea butter is now becoming one of the best selling and highly recommended skin care products around.

Source: http://afyatherapy.com/

Agent: Yanira Castro

In The News North Korea Declares War on the United States

North Korea’s top diplomat for U.S. affairs told The Associated Press on July 28th, that Washington “crossed the red line” and effectively declared war by putting leader Kim Jong Un on its list of sanctioned individuals, and said a vicious showdown could erupt if the U.S. and South Korea hold annual war games as planned next month.

Han Song Ryol, director-general of the U.S. affairs department at the North’s Foreign Ministry, said in an interview, that recent U.S. actions have put the situation on the Korean Peninsula on a war footing.

Source: USA Today

Mass Shooting At Teen Club in Fort Myers, FL

16-year old son of ex-NFL player, pastor Antonio Armstrong charged with killing parents

A former Texas A&M and Miami Dolphins linebacker and his wife were fatally shot at their home in Houston, and their 16-year-old son has been charged as a juvenile with murder in the slayings.

In the early morning hours on July 29, a call came into a local Houston police department that former Miami Dolphins linebacker, Antonio Armstrong, and his wife, Dawn Armstrong, were fatally shot.

According to the New York Daily News, the teenager called 911 around 1:30 a.m., to confess his actions. He was then arrested once authorities arrived on the scene, and found a gun with the note, “I’ve been watching you.” The motive is still unclear. The married pair also had their two other children inside the home, a son, 20, and a teenage daughter. Reports state they were unharmed.

Source: Los Angeles Sentinel

Toya Wright Loses Two Brothers To Gun Violence

Sunday, July 31st, Ryan ‘Rudy’ Johnson, 24, and Joshua Johnson, 31, were found dead in a car with multiple gun wounds near their home in the seventh ward of New Orleans. After learning of the tragedy, Lil’ Wayne, ex-husband and father of Wright’s only child, Reginae, 17, rushed to be by his exwife’s side. Her brothers were laid to rest in a private ceremony. It’s being reported that Wayne chose not to attend the funeral service in an effort to lessen any unwanted media attention.

WWLTV reports that police are still searching for the motive and key figures involved in this heinous shooting death of these two young men.

Source: Essence

Escaped Murder Suspect Caught At about 12:30 a.m. Monday, July 25th, 19 people between the ages of 12 and 27 suffered gunshot wounds, two fatally, as they left Club Blu in Fort Myers, Fl. No suspects have been identified in this case although a couple of arrests have been made with individuals linked to the case. The FBI is currently assisting FMPD with this case.

Source: NewsPress

A murder suspect who authorities say escaped from a Florida courthouse with the help of five other people has been apprehended.

Dayonte Resiles was captured last week at a hotel in West Palm Beach after a five-day man hunt. A judge has since put a long list of restrictions in place for Resiles, including no interaction with other inmates, no phone calls and no emails. He can only communicate with his attorneys.

Resiles is accused in the 2014 stabbing death of 59-year-old Jill Halliburton Su during an attempted robbery at her home in Davie, Florida.

Source: WSVN Miami

Dr Peter Ndiangui Intellectual Warrior

Tell us about your name?

Peter Ndiangui, Ndiangui means “warrior” from Kenya.

And your last name meaning warrior, do you feel like it fits you?

Yes. Actually anyone who has been named “Ndiangui” has been a warrior. My great great grandfather fought in the first world war, my second great grandfather fought in the second world war, then my grandfather fought in the war of independence for our country. Everybody was a warrior. And my grandfather, the one I was just telling you about, when I was born he brought me tools. Any baby, when they are born, you get to bring them tools they are meant to use in life. If you are to be a good farmer, they bring you a machete or something to use. Before that, any kid before me named “Ndiangui” would get a spear and a shield. But for me, when I was born, my grandfather brought me a book a small pencil and he said these would be my spear and my shield. And sure enough, those are what I’ve been using all my life. I come from a long line of warriors. My great grandfather was a great warrior. In my country if you go to war and you come back alive in a time of warfare, then you are a good warrior, if you come with goats and cows, then you are a great warrior, but if you come back with

one of the ennemy’s girl then you’re even a greater warrior. And my great grandfather, the one who started the name, came back with one of the most beautiful girls he’s ever seen.

And he ended up creating a very big family with 52 wives and 128 kids. So you asked if I think the name fits, I think so, even though I wouldn’t get more than 1 wife, but it feels good to know I come from a great line of warriors. And I get to go to war with my pen as my spear.

Where exactly are you from? Tell us about your childhood I’m from a town called Nyeri. Right next to mount Kenya. It’s in central Kenya, Eastern Africa and I’m from a very affluent group called Kitui. One thing I remember is that we always had alot of food, we never felt hungry. That was before the British came and took some of our land. Most of my life was shaped from growing up in the village, one thing about my village is that everything was communal. We all took our goats and cows together at the same place, we didn’t have much, we were very poor but we didn’t feel poor. Every mother was our mother, and every kid was your brother or sister and we took good care of each other. We were so happy. We never had money, we had no use for it and we were happy.

Money was for a particular purpose, it wasn’t something you just keep.

We were taught that was holding.

It’s not of any use to you if you don’t use it. I think that shaped us to share everything we had.

Compare your upbringing to now living in America It’s a huge difference. The money here, it’s never enough. It’s a cultural shock. Even if it seems you’re mak-

ing alot, it all goes to the bills. It’s a scary thought. I was making way more money in Kenya even though realistically I was making less. Here, they have all the ways of getting your money.

What brought you to America?

After my schooling, I got a my masters and became a teacher. I started to teach at an affluent school in Kenya. And somehow, slowly, for 2 years my students had the highest grades in the International Baccalloreate tests in the whole world. I was appointed to several committees in the international forums, and I was able to travel every where to tend to those committees. I became close friends with one of the members of one of those committes and she was a principal in Atlanta. And one day she called me up and asked if I would like to work in the United States, and I thought it was a great opportunity.

And now here I am, teaching diversity at Florida Gulf Coast University.

It was a cultural shock when you realize how much race plays a part in American culture. In Kenya its more so a divide with social status. It was a different experience to encounter judgement based on race.

Tell us about being the President of the African Network of SWFL. The African Network of SWFL are African professionals who have banded together to teach people the African culture. We want to teach people, Africa is one of the greatest growing economic structures and we don’t need hand outs, we don’t need food, we need training. Another one of our goals as well, is to connect people and businesses and we make it so that anybody can join our group. www.AfricanNetworkofSWFlorida.org

The Music Business

The Theft of America’s Creative Work So, on Monday July 21st, I read the news that the popular torrent site KAT (KickassTorrents) was taken down, and the owner arrested in Poland. Many of my friends on social media were terribly bothered by this news, and to be honest, at one point I would have been too... not anymore.

Picture yourself in pioneer times, the days when you could stake claim to a piece of land, cut the lumber with your bare hands, and build yourself and your family a little home. Think of how long the process of building this small home would take.

Think of the sore back, the long hours, the blood, sweat, and tears... all of it worth it once you see it complete.

Picture the stove in the corner, maybe two rooms, and of course a garden in the back. Now picture this, a complete stranger walks up to the house, moves in for free, and there is nothing you can do about it. How would that make you feel?

This is how the creators of intellectual property feel when their work is stolen from them. Also known as copyright infringement, intellectual property theft happens everyday. It happens in homes across the world, it happens in banks, bars, stores, and many other business. Chances are, you have been a guilty party, I know I have. What is intel-

lectual property? It is a creative work or invention, it is a thought written down, an image painted, a song recorded. Not just creative works like music, dance, art, and film - but also patents, ideas, and programming code that runs all of the software we use today. Most of it is intangible, but property nonetheless. The rights to a song have value, just like your home, car, or sneakers.

It can be sold, gifted, loaned, and stolen. Most of us do not realize, and often think that there is nothing wrong with streaming a movie on the internet that is currently in theaters, using software to download a song from YouTube, or downloading a program from a torrent site. After all, who does it harm? It harms the creators of those works and their publishers. This is usually the part where someone will say, “Warner Brothers doesn’t need the money”, “The Rolling Stones are already rich”, or “Fuck Microsoft”. However, there are a

We became so used to music being easy to steal that we no longer see the value in it, and refuse to pay for it. The industry only had one option left, and that was to basically give it away via streaming services. As a consumer, you may not see what is wrong with this, but those who create your favorite songs are making less and less every day. Would you continue doing your job if your salary was decreased every year?

As a person who is trying to build a company based on intellectual property, I cannot stay silent on the matter.

I know, for the most part, these words will fall on deaf ears, but they had to be said.

If it offends you, so be it. If it makes you uncomfortable, good. But, if you think twice before streaming that movie, hitting that torrent site, or hacking that fire stick, even better. To those of you who are a member of the creative community, this message goes out to you as well. If you steal another’s creation, shame on you. I know I am only one voice, but I refuse to silence it to maintain the status quo. I made a choice to do what I believe is right, and not steal intellectual property. Will you join me?

couple of things wrong with that argument. First, even if those companies and people are well off, it still does not make it OK for you to steal from them. It is as if you walked into Microsoft and walked out with a piece of office equipment. The other problem with that argument is that behind those big names there are hundreds, sometimes thousands, of regular people who make a living from creating those properties. The songwriters who are unknown, yet pen some of your favorite songs, the coders and programmers that create your favorite games, and the supporting cast and crew who are essential in the creation of your favorite movie. Those people, all of those people, are hurt by copyright infringement. Additionally, the work itself is hurt by pirating. The music industry, for example, is in trouble.

Partly because, over time we have devalued music Written by through file sharing, torrent sites, and illegal downloads. Angel Soto CEO Benton Entertainment

Life/Relationship

Real One

Fighting for Love

So many people look for the wrong things in relationships. So many are satisfied with a title versus fulfilling the actual job description. Focusing so much on how that person makes them feel, or do for them, or holding on to how many years they’ve already invested in the relationship versus what they actually love about the person. My problem is, in a relationship, if I’m not happy, if our spirits aren’t aligned, if I look at you and I don’t see any glimpses of the person I fell in love with, then it’s time to reevaluate my position. No matter how many years I’ve already invested. You don’t stick to a mistake just because you’ve spent alot of time making it. Yes you will have tough times in a relationship, yes you will bump heads. But when the trust and respect is gone, there’s nothing left to hold on to.

I recently had a conversation with someone in regards to fighting for love. I will fight for love, but not in the sense most fight for love. Most think fighting for love is simply refusing to let go, no matter how bad things get. Others think fighting for love is reinterating to their mate all the things they’ve done for them, reminding them of the good times, reminding them of the past. These are not my definition of fighting for love. Because my love is not contingent on reciprocity or whether or not we are together. My love will forever remain unconditional. I will fight for love by fighting off every ill feelings, every negative thoughts I may have in regards to my #RealOne during times of war. I will fight the urge to disrespect him when I’m angry, and fight the urge to call him out his name to the world when we’re not vibing. I will fight the urge to share my discontent with him to my friends and family and fight the desire to cause him pain, either physically or emotionally, and fight any notion of exacting any revenge on him. I will fight for love, not by trying to suffocate it, or giving it ultimatums, but instead try to save it by any means necessary, even if that means removing myself from his life, if I’m the cause of his pain.

Most importantly, I fight for love, not with my words, but with my heart. I fight by showing with my actions that I will always have your back, I fight by reassuring my #RealOne of why I love him in the first place. I fight for love by reminding myself of the qualities that draws me in and hold on to them with all my might in order to always keep him in the positive side of my thoughts. I’m big on lists, so practicing what I preach, I’d like to list 32 things I love about my #RealOne. In hopes that, he is able to read this and always know that what we have is not for anyone to define but for us to conquer.

32 things I love about my #RealOne 1. His hunger for God 2. His thirst for wisdom 3. His drive and motivation 4. His childlike personality 5. His love for others 6. His openess to try new things 7. His loyalty 8. His honesty 9. His ability to look beyond himself 10. His transparency 11. His ability to handle stress 12. His leadership qualities 13. His versatility 14. His willingness to embrance change 15. His outlook of the future 16. His awareness of self

17. His ability to let loose and have fun 18. His compassion for others 19. His endurance 20. His romance and charm 21. His sense of humor 22. His protective nature 23. His vulnerability 24. His king-like demeanor 25. His constant search for growth 26. His gentleness 27. His willingness to accept criticism 28. His willingness to truly listen 29. His humility 30. His confidence in his abilities 31. His talents and skills 32. His love for me and my children

Witten by Ladychelle. #RealOne is a monthly life/relationship editorial based off of the hit single #RealOne by Tru Wiz. Single available on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon and wherever digital music is sold.

For more Tru Wiz music, visit www.IamTruWiz.com

Business DIrectory

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