Spring Issue 2015

innovators issue spring 2015

1 .3 anniversary issue yr

TABLE OF CONTENTS-SPRING 2015

MUSIC MUSTS Adam Clarke 36

IN EVERY ISSUE

Top 10 Concerts 40

Editors Letter 4

Meet the Team 6

LOCAL OPTIONS

JCC PresenTense 24

Cinespace Chicago 28

Bridgeport Arts Center 32

Fulton Street Collective 28

2

Top 10 Albums 42

THE SPOTLIGHT Indie Artist Spotlight 44

Artistic Blooms 57

Vivid Brail e Chicago 66

HEALTH & GROOMING ZSS Skincare 183

Spring Beauty Picks

FASHION & LIFESTYLE

186

Brandon Liberati

Traci Ciccarelli Designs

188

Miel e Organics

70

190

Lost Girls Vintage

CROSSFIT AMRAP

87

192

Looks for Less

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT Del Frisco’s Review

90

Corri Mcfadden 103

The Patternbase Studio

FEATURES

Harris Theatre & Kronos 82

Fulton St. Collective

Rana Jaafar

PRSVR

Jason Kovick Designs

Interview with UTN1

WTF?! Star’s Moda

Circa Modern

110

120

196

128

Tory Johnson 180

134 138

146

Create Balance 156

Solemn Oath Brewery 162

203

208

EDITORS LAST LOOK Meet Andrea Pabon 218

N’spired Thoughts 224

Jesse’s Barbershop 172

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The spring issue has arrived readers! This issue marks Halfstack’s three year anniversary! We’ve come a long way since 2012. Our team has grown, our stories are more in-depth and we’ve pushed ourselves creatively in so many ways. We pride ourselves on showcasing the latest talent, the up and comers and in curating the great unknowns. The last three years we’ve grown with all of you out there and for that we thank you!

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

This issue is dedicated to the innovators in and around Chicago; The artists pushing the boundaries with their work, the newcomers who aren’t afraid to make a statement and the businesses who are making a difference.

The features this issue are packed with interesting people, brands and locals. We open the issue with a feature from Cora spotlighting the local JCC organization and how they are embracing young startups.

We are also showcasing local art centers like Bridgeport Art Center and the Fulton Street Collective. Each has it’s own style and offers artists an opportunity to share their work and create a community. No issue would be complete without a spotlight of local artists. This issue we share the journeys of four Chicago based artists in the “Chicago Indie Artist Spotlight”.

Perry has some beautiful features of local independent Chicago businesses including: Artistic Blooms, The Patternbase and Jason Kovick Designs. Olivia interviewed

JENNIFER M. LEZAN-VEGUILLA EDITOR IN CHIEF & FOUNDER

Corri McFadden of shop-e-drop off and shares some insight on the journey of an entrepreneur. The fashion features included in this issue are inspired by times past.

We shot up and coming designers: PRSVR and Traci Ciccarelli on location at Circa Modern in West town and Jesse’s Barbershop in Portage Park. I also share the stories

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behind these two businesses as well as others including:

Solemn Oath Brewery. It is always exciting to share local businesses with all of you, even more so when the owners are down to earth and humble.

This issue we have something very special to share!

Tareq’s piece on the popular Iraqi pop/rock band UTN1 is in both English and Arabic. He shares their journey, their struggles and triumphs in an inspiring write up. This dual language piece gives us the special opportunity to connect with a global audi-

Interview with UTN1 - pg. 208

ence in Chicago and around the world.

In our Dining & Entertainment section: Thom shares his experiences at the uber swanky Del Friscos . Meanwhile, Cora features the latest collaboration at The Harris Theatre with The Kronos Quartet. Dwight shares upcoming concerts and some albums to check out this Spring along with an interview from artist to watch: Adam Clark.

Circa Modern - pg. 146

Danielle’s latest grooming & beauty roundups are perfect for this warm weather. She also interviews beauty guru: Brandon Liberati and highlights Chicago based beauty entrepreneur: Monique Rodriguez of Mielle Organics.

Finally, I close out this issue with some inspired thoughts from Reynisha and an interview with indie photographer and director Andrea Pabon, a

Jesse’s Barbershop - pg. 172

young Boriqua making waves in Chicago.

As always, thank you for your support readers. Keep following your dreams!

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jennifer veguilla eic / creative director founder @ halfstackmag

kate roth

founding member

mariana quaranta

founding member

PHOTOGRAPHY

aimee elizabeth

lead photographer visual stimulus

andrea pabon

lead photographer andreapabon.com

P erry F ish lead photographer

alluringchicago.com

HALFSTACK EDITORIAL

meet the

teresa espinoza

fashion editor & blogger

cora vasseur

bloggr & online digital editor

team rob samuelson

bloggr & online digital editor

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thom olson

bloggr & online digital editor

KALI KOLLER

SAMMY SITHIPONG

Creative & Graphics Designer

Creative & Graphics Designer

ANABEL CARILLO

Creative & Graphics Designer

ELAINE RAU

Creative & Sales Assistant

DANIELLE PULAK Beauty & Grooming Editor

JAMIE L. BREEDEN

Creative & Graphics Designer

STELLA QUIMBY Fashion Editor

DIGITAL TEAM

PEARL SHIN Staff Blogger

MOLLY ROSENBERG Staff Blogger

DENISE GUEVARA Staff Blogger

BRITTANY LOHMANN Staff Blogger

DWIGHT BEJEC Social Media Director

OLIVIA LEMLEY Staff Blogger

ANDREA HANNAH Staff Blogger

TRACI CICARELLI Staff Blogger

STAFF WRITERS

& DESIGNERS

TARIQ AL SAUD Staff Blogger

HALEE NORDHUES Social Media Intern

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JCC and JCC PresenTense:

Embrace the Past for the Present and the Future By: Cora Vasseur Many of us know how important it is to know your roots. In order to know where you’re going, you need to know where you came from. We learn values that shape our lives, help us create our identities, and help create an extended family that makes us feel like we belong. All this can be found in Jewish Cultural Center of Chicago (JCC), a safe place that has adapted and evolved with the times to better serve its people and the community, showing heritage can stand the test of time and ready us for days to come.

What was created out a necessity has now evolved into something for the future. The JCC preserves and builds Jewish life and traditions, provides chances to act on Jewish values, and is an innovator and collaborative partner in the Chicagoland community.

In the early nineteen hundreds, seventy-five thousand Jews settled in Chicago to escape pogroms in Eastern Europe. Immersed in new cultures after having escaped with their lives, they needed a place where they could meet others who were going through similar ordeals. Two brothers raised $250 in 1903 to establish the community center for that purpose. It now serves over 24,000 children, adults, and families. While they cater to a Jewish community, they do welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds.

The JCC is vital to Jewish life both in the home and in the community. They offer a wide variety of classes, courses, and camps for all ages from little ones to adults. They

also remove any financial concerns that would prevent families and individuals from participating. In 2014, they spent 1.4 million dollar helping families. The myriad of programs and classes allow people of all ages to learn about faith and values in fun and creative ways. They also get opportunities to apply those values and see them in action.

The first JCC Day Camp was in 1932 and now serves over 4,000 children each summer at 8 locations throughout the Chicagoland area. JCC’s Camp Chi also offers teen travel programs and Chi Town Connection, a year-round program for high school ages that provides meaningful occasions for socialization, recreation and Jewish association and continuity.

New programs, such as JGrandAdventures and GIFTS, have been established to create opportunities for grandparents and grandchildren to be together.

JGrandAdventures provides activities to

“Two brothers raised $250 in 1903 to establish the community center for that purpose. It now 24serves over 24,000 children, adults, and families.”

SPENT

1.4 MILLION

DOLLARS

create meaningful moments that strengthen connections.

“GIFTS” stands for “Gratitude, Inspiration, Family, Tzedakah, and Service” which are values they hope to pass on to the next generation.

Bringing those generations closer together is important not only for memories, but to pass on stories and strengthen your knowledge of your backgrounds.

HELPING

FAMILIES

create a sustainable business. It’s a wellrounded, multifaceted gauntlet where Fellows go through Venture Accelerators, where the entrepreneurs are cultivated to build creative solutions that meet local and societal needs, Innovation Workshops to encourage organizations to find resources and solutions One of the ways JCC impacts young adults is within the group, and Entrepreneurship through an exclusive entrepreneurship program.

Consulting to advise organizations and PresenTense utilizes entrepreneurship as a government on how to nurture innovation and tool to revitalize local economies, enhance creativity through their programs, policies and community life and solve critical issues facing ecosystems. society, intending to make entrepreneurship accessible to all and quicken social impact in “The Wall Street Journal said seventy-five societies around the world. These individuals percent of start up’s fail,” says Forman. “We are seeing the gaps and filling them, solving hope to prevent that by creating a community big problems with even bigger ideas. around young thinkers.”

“There’s a phrase in Hebrew, Tikkun Olam, that means to repair your world,” says Jacob Forman, Chicago PresenTense Executive Member.

It’s a six month intensive program where young professionals take an idea and guide it through the entrepreneur process to

“75% of startups fail” The projects span many areas from health and science to arts and humanities and human relations. 2013 Fellow Claire Denton-Spalding’s project, “Graphically Jewish”, taught young

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Jews Jewish identity by using graphic novels.

One of her events brought out 30 people.

use artistic expression to teach children to appreciate and embrace differences.

This year’s Fellows and their projects can be viewed on the JCC Pinterest page. One Fellow is Rena Rosen and her project is “Emunot shel Chemlah (Art of Compassion)”. It will encourage children to embrace differences in each other.

One of the effects of the program is participants are aware of their community and the support it can offer. 2013 Fellow Lihy Epstein’s project was “Unapologetically Me”, which involved mentoring LGBT youth.

She wrapped up the experience and what it means to her and many of the Fellows when she said, “My community, my Jewish community, has my back.” Many of us know how important that feeling is which is why so many are willing to provide it for the next generation.

“Differences are what make us unique, but we don’t always know how to address people who look or act different,” she says. “It’s jarring to a child when they’re introduced to someone who isn’t like them.” The program will be part of JCC’s day schools and will

“The first JCC Day Camp was in 1932 and now serves over 4,000 children each summer at 8 locations throughout the Chicagoland area.”

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Adventures in Chicago’s Movie Industry Written by: Robert Samuelson Layout by: Elaine Rau

There are cops everywhere. I spot at least seven cruisers in a two block radius as I nervously search for parking. Don’t take out your phone to take pictures, you idiot, I think to myself.

They might pull you over. I don’t know what to think, and I sure as shootin’ don’t know where to park. I ring around four or five times, making sure to come to a complete stop at the end of the block, as the officer in the unmarked Crown Victoria eyes me with derision each time, like I’m doing something wrong.

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I’m at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, home of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Empire, and numerous Chicago-shot films in the last half decade since the studio space opened. Geez, the security is tight here, I think to myself as I finally find a spot on the adjoining street when I realize the “visitor parking” is not designated for visitors at all, but production people who are powerful enough to have their names on signs.

They must really feel unsafe with all those

ruffians from the Lagunitas brewery across the way, I say as I lock my door and step into the frigid zero degree weather. I’m decked out in multiple layers and a scarf to prepare for my cold tour of Chicago’s Hollywood equivalent.

I head into what looks like the administrative building, following a group of people who look like they’re going to lunch. They eye me suspiciously. I’m not one of them. I know it. They know it. I keep my distance. It’s like Children of the Corn here with all the paranoia I feel. Are they going to start kidnapping and murdering people? Will they have a creepy-cute leader?

Will he call me “outlander” derisively? I hope he calls me outlander. It has a nice ring to it.

Rob “Outlander” Samuelson. Yeah, that’ll do.

The group of probably-murderous people finally flood into the building, allowing me to enter safely, 15 or 20 paces behind.

“They eye me suspiciously.

I’m not one of them. I know it.”

I look around. There are posters everywhere touting the studio’s output. And the place has been prolific in recent years. Its campus is pretty large, situated on the city’s west side. My reductive side gets the best of me. Ah, hence all the cops. Now I get it.

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A nice woman asks what she can do for me. I present myself, explain the interview and tour request I had set up the day before, and she goes to fetch someone for me.

But oh no, disaster. There has been a “miscommunication” and nobody is here to accompany me. No, I can’t go by myself. No, I can’t take pictures of any productions in progress.

The paranoia mounts. They are out to get me.

My car is probably on its way to the tow yard as we speak!

I rush out to find my car, snug in its spot, unmoved by any of the drama taking place in my head. There are no tickets stuck to it.

Such is the life of a writer for an up-and-coming online magazine. Sometimes these things happen. Wires get crossed. Mistakes are made. We here at Halfstack aren’t the Tribune in terms of “do you know who I am?!” clout.

Yet. Disappointed, I take a quick lap around the campus to catch a glimpse of what they do, unable to have it explained to me.

Soon I come to a realization. Squad car after squad car passes me. I look up. There’s a crane with a camera attached to it. People are standing around, moving stuff, equipment and such.

“Soon I come to a realization. Squad car after squad car passes me.

I look up. “ My hand smacks against my forehead. Those aren’t cops, I tell myself. No, no, they’re filming for Chicago P.D. They’re mad at me for getting

30

in the way of the shoot. They’re not about to tow my car, but they might just get me a real police escort off the premises if I don’t see myself out, pronto.

They didn’t let me tour, so screw it, I say as I return to my car. I rev and pass through the same congested shoot one last time.

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BRIDGEPORT ART CENTER: CARVING A SPACE FOR

Chicago Creatives By: Pearl Shin

The Bridgeport Art Center (BAC) is truly a unique place.

This center is consisted of a collection of different spaces, including a beautiful event and gallery space called the Skyline Loft, an industrial workspace for woodworking, metal design, light manufacturing, and assembly, and office spaces. It also acts as a home base for a gallery, many artists’ studios, designers, and other professional people. It is located on West 35th Street in Chicago’s Bridgeport area. The center, which was first opened in 2001, has truly expanded over time. Over the years of it’s operation, Bridgeport Art Center has transformed into an exceptional place that provides its tenants with a wonderful place to stay and its clients a high quality place to rent.

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The building that is now occupied by the Bridgeport Art Center did not always serve this purpose. This building was first built in the year 1911 and was originally used as a warehouse and manufacturing facility by the group Albert Fick and Co., a company that was a supplier to hotels and restaurants. After Albert Fick and Co., Spiegel Catalogue occupied the building, until it was sold to Goodwill Industries. The building was inhabited by multiple owners until the year 1999 when it was purchased by Paul Levy and Tony Augustine, Chicago Developers from Prairie Management & Development. Not too long after, the center officially opened in the year 2001 and has been active in the community ever since.

Bridgeport Art Center now serves as a major establishment in Chicago as a place of creativity and production.

The entire structure is around 500,000 square feet in size.

Presently, Bridgeport Art Center provides space for many clients.

The current tenants at BAC include

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Chicago Contemporary Dane Studio, Heartland Alliance, Chicago Maritime Museum, Continental Airport, Peer Foods, Spokenword Magazine, Project Onward, Benton House, Primitive Arts, Deep Dish Production, and the North American Bear Company.

The BAC has many spaces within its enormous structure which provides

a wide array of clients the opportunity to rent out rooms for galleries, showcases, and events.

One of the main spaces include the beautiful event space called Skyline Loft. Skyline Loft is a large, open space that is located at the top floor of the Bridgeport Art Center. It is 18,000 square feet in size and can be sectioned off in order to create smaller spaces. The windows provide a panoramic view of the Chicago skyline, hence it’s name. Whether it be during the day, evening, or night , Skyline Loft is guaranteed to have a magnificent overlooking view of the city and sky.

Another part of Skyline Loft is the

The windows provide a panoramic view of the Chicago skyline, hence it’s name. Whether it be during the day, evening, or night , Skyline Loft is guaranteed to have a magnificent overlooking view of the city and sky. exquisite Sculpture Garden. The Sculpture Garden is an event space that is located on the ground floor and spans 12,000 square feet in the indoor space and another additional 6,000 square feet in its outdoor space.

The Sculpture Garden is located right outside it’s indoor event room and is decorated with original sculptures made by local artists. This space can perfect for events such as weddings where people might want an indoor ceremony and an outdoor reception.

The Bridgeport Art Center is not a place that stays idle for long. Many different events take place at the BAC throughout the year. Some of the events that take place at the Bridgeport Art Center include open studios, art competitions, and fashion shows to list a few. In addition to these events, the BAC has a gallery called the Bridgeport Art Gallery that is open

every day during the week and also hosts exhibitions during the year. For those who are interested in getting immersed in the practice of art, BAC also offers many different classes during the year. Some classes that the Bridgeport Art Center currently offers include classes in painting, textiles, pottery, and jewelry making.

Anyone who has an interest or passion for the arts can benefit from visiting or attending an event at Bridgeport Art Center. Since its inception, the center has grown exponentially. The center continues to grow and change in order to offer the best experience to its tenants and visitors. You can visit the Bridgeport Art Center’s website to find out more about the center, see a calendar of upcoming events, or to find out more about booking events.

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Getting to know

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ADAM CLARK Interview by: Dwight Bejec Layout by: Elaine Rau

Name: Adam Clark Type of Musician: Pop/ Rock Singer/Songwriter Website: Facebook.com/adammusicclark

12 questions in 12 minutes with Rochester, New York-based pop/rock artist Adam Clark.

Adam shows raw emotion using his voice to compliment the words of his songs. In our short time together, I can see that he has found his true purpose in life, and I am excited that he is giving us a glimpse of how he has developed a signature sound and performance style.

Thank you Adam for spending time with Halfstack Magazine, and for being an inspiration to people through your gift of music. Here is a small view into this up and coming musician’s life to inspire you to keep working hard at your special gifts, and to remember to use them to inspire those all around you. Keep on Smiling!

1. Can you tell us more about yourself, your background and how you have established yourself as such a sought after Musician in Rochester, NY?

Whats up Half Stack Magazine! I’m 25 and have been creating music since I was 13. I’ve been working as a solo artist, though, for about 3 years now and have had the opportunity to work with a lot of amazing people on some great music.

2. Can you explain what your creative pro-

cess is like when it comes to your work? What kind of research goes into it, where do you find your inspiration?

My process has changed throughout the years.

Which, I think is because I’ve grown up a lot since I’ve started out. I used to just finish a song, just to finish a song. Lately I’ve been letting the song work itself out as I let life affect me. I think I’m in a place now (creativitely) that I want to let my songs come from a very genuine place.

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3. What have been some of your most pro-

found moments, projects you are most proud of as an Musician?

I don’t think I’ve had a “most profound moment” yet. I think some moments have helped make an imprint on what could be an amazing career in music. But for this moment right now, I don’t think I’m there yet. As for projects, later this year I’m releasing some of my best music that has even affected me in a profound way.

4. Have there been any key people that have influenced your career, your art, your life?

I’ve had a lot of people affect me in life. I think the one person who has affected me the most though is my Uncle, who passed away in 2011.

He was the one person that supported me when I was just starting out.

5. Are there any Musicians that you look up to? If so, who and why?

Rob Thomas (Matchbox 20), Ed Sheeran and Ryan Tedder (One Republic) are some of my favorite songwriters of this generation of music.

Each have their own style and that style (to me) is about growth. I like honesty and humility in music. I think that’s important, someone who can show how music has affected them in a positive way.

6. What do you consider innovation in your

field, how can Musicians continue to push the boundaries?

I was just recently talking about this. Haha! I think what musiciains need, is to have everything in their music thought through. Every note should have a purpose and not just fill up space. It’s about creating something that hits everyone. And if you have to search deaper to find where you fall in the equation than keep swimming. I think lyrically, people are afraid to go out there and ask the tough questions, cause it’s uncomfortable. But, I believe that’s

38

necessary to make good music.

7. Have you faced any struggles or obstacles as an Musician throughout your career? If so, how have you overcome?

I think the biggest obstacle for me is myself.

And I think the only way around that is through falling deep into the music, then walking away from it for a second and remembering to breathe. Then it’s back to business.

8. If you could go back and tell your 18 year old self one thing, or give yourself one bit of advice, what would it be?

I would have told him, to stop listening to everyone else’s advice and own the dreams you hold.

ed your career as a Musician, what would you say to those who believe that you can only find great success in places like NYC or LA? I think they are 100% right. I love my hometown because this is where I grew up, it’s where my family and friends live and it’s where I’ve built this dream. But I had the opportunity last year to go to LA to record an EP out there and it was an eye opening experience. I fell in love with the city right from the start and adapted the feeling of the culture there and placed it right back into the songs. That being said, I think there’s always something to learn from whereever you’re at.

10.

What kind of advice would you give young Musicians looking to turn their passion into a career that has meaning?

Just be you, and don’t be afraid to find out exactly who that is. It’s truly powerful once you start to believe in yourself.

11. Any upcoming shows, gallery showings, etc that you would like to share?

"Every note should have a purpose and not just fill up space."

9. How has staying in Rochester, NY affect-

I’ve been working with my team and a team of graphic designers on creating an amazing EPK to send out to college student activity boards, national booking agents, pr companies, publishers, ect. for my new single “King of the Sky” that (I’m going to be release to my fans as well) to start booking across the country. So stay tuned.

12.

Where can we learn more about you and your music?

Facebook.com/adammusicclark Twitter and IG: @adammusicclark

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SPRING 2015 April 3rd 8pm

Belle and Sebastian Riviera Theatre Come join in the dancing and fun of a wonderful live show with Belle and Sebastian. They will be playing the Riviera Theatre April 3rd at 8:00pm

April 24th 8pm

Delta Rae METRO Join the band Delta Rae for some percussive power, and graceful vocals at the Metro this April 24th, show starts at 8:00pm

May 1st 730pm

Death Cab for Cutie The Chicago Theatre Death Cab for Cutie is a band that evokes memories from a simpler time. Relive highschool days past and experience great music this May at The Chicago Theatre. Show starts at 7:30PM on May 1st, 2015.

April 10th 730pm

Guster Riviera Theatre Guster will be at the Riviera Theatre, April 10th, the show kicks off at 7:30pm with Kishi Bashi opening up!

April 17th 9pm

They Might Be Giants Vic Theatre They Might Be Giants will be at the Vic Theatre April 17th, show starts at 9:00pm, enjoy witty clever music, old hits as well as new ones, it’s a show you will never forget. If you’ve never been to one before then go to this one!

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May 3rd 730pm

Paramore Rosemont Theatre Energizing, popular with thoughts of nostalgia, Paramore comes to Chicago by way of the Rosemont Theatre show starts at 7:30pm

CONCERTS June 3rd 630pm

Royal Blood METRO Coming across the pond to Chicago, more specifically the Metro, the 2 piece band of Royal Blood will be sharing their version of meat cleaver riffs and juggernaught choruses to you!

May 24th 7pm

New Kids on the Block with Nelly and TLC Allstate Arena Memories of loves gone, friendships long gone and nights to remember, NKOTB, Nelly and TLC will be coming to the Allstate Arena, to give you a show that brings that all back, show starts at 7:00pm

June 10th 7pm

Hozier Jay Pritzker Pavilion Hozier will be bringing his rich, soulful croon to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion June 10th, show starts at 7:00pm, get ready for the glorious gothic splendor of his hit, “Church”, it’s sure to please!

May 30th 7pm

Lana Del Rey “Endless Summer Tour” Thankfully without Courtney Love First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre Lana Del Rey brings her, “Endless Summer Tour”, thankfully without Courtney Love, to the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre.

Written by: Dwight Bejec

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TOP 10 ALBUMS March 31, 2015

Death Cab For A Cutie Kintsugi Death Cab for Cutie has announced their first studio album since the departure of founding member Chris Walla called Kintsugi, and it’s out!

March 31st titled, ‘This Is the Sonics’. Be ready for their original unique stamp of the timeless garage rock sound that is sure to please.

April 7, 2015

Blues Traveler Blow Up The Moon Blues Traveler will be releasing their new album titled, “Blow Up The Moon”. It’s a clever collaboration of various artist so definitely one to pick up. It’s hard to believe they’ve been making music for 25+ years.

April 27, 2015

Blur The Magic Whip Blur will be releasing their album titled, “The Magic Whip” April 27th. It has been 12 yrs since their last album release, with this album deeply influenced by the Hong Kong environment it’s refreshing to hear some new material.

March 31, 2015

Ringo Starr Postcards from Paradise Ringo Starr’s 18th studio release, POSTCARDS FROM PARADISE out March 31. The solo album, with 11 original tracks, is the first to include a song written and recorded by Ringo Starr and his current All Starr Band – Steve Lukather, Todd Rundgren, Gregg Rolie, Richard Page, Warren Ham and Gregg Bissonette.

March 31, 2015

The Sonics This Is The Sonics The Sonics, who were primarily active during the mid ‘60s will be putting out a new album

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FOR SPRING 2015 April 28, 2015

Raekwon F.I.L.A The Chief of WuTang, Raekwon has announced his new album F.I.L.A (Fly International Luxurious Art) set to release April 28th.

June 2, 2015

Florence + the Machine How Big How Blue How Beautiful Florence and the Machine has announced How Big How Blue How Beautiful, the follow-up LP to 2011’s Ceremonials. According to their press release, the new album became about trying to learn how to live, and how to love in the world rather than trying to escape from it.

June 2, 2015

Joanna Gruesome Peanut Butter Joanna Gruesome have announced their new album titled Peanut Butter, the follow-up to 2013’s Weird Sister. In a press release, guitarist/song writer Owen Williams said, “We tried to make it shorter, more economical and attempted to pack as many hooks and screams in as quickly possible in order to avoid short changing the consumer or wasting her/his time”.

May 5, 2015

Mikal Cronin MCIII Mikal Cronin has announced his 3rd album titled MCIII, according to the press release Cronin played nearly everything on the record himself (including tzouras, French horn, saxophone, and trumpet). He also arranged parts for a string quartet. Definitely one to pick up!

May 19, 2015

Faith No More Sol Invictus The reunited Faith No More have announced Sol Invictus, their first new album since 1997’s Album of the Year. It’s out May 19th.

Written by: Dwight Bejec

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A e i d In

Meet 4 Chica

Intro and Interview by: Jennifer M. Lezan

Following your passions can be a scary thing, even more so when you are pursuing them on a professional basis. Being a working artist is thrilling, rewarding and can sometimes be daunting. The world puts so much pressure on people to be successful that they can sometimes forget to enjoy the process. Practicing your art, day in and day out, takes perseverance and strength. Artists are a special breed of people; they see the world from a different perspective and play a significant role in society. Art is a language of the emotions and speaks of what the people are feeling. Today’s art has evolved

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Artist

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ht lig ot

ago Creatives Layout by: Annabel Carrillo

tremendously from the art of the past, but it is still a way to communicate. Art in its many forms is a historical imprint of the world in a visual format and artists can be signifiers of the zeitgeist of the time. Artists can, and often do, create to make a statement that reveals the issues and complexities we face as a society. In its purest form, art speaks to us, moves us and touches us to our core.

This issue, we wanted to share some Chicago artists creating on their own terms. We share their journeys in a Q & A format below for your enjoyment. Halfstackers meet: Juan Chavez, Vince Wolfe, Arlan Derussy, and Dona Stretch.

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JUAN CHAVEZ Can you tell us more about yourself, your background and how you have established yourself as such a sought after artist in Chicago?

I’m an artist that grew up in the city, around different art making scenes: Community public art, street art and now contemporary art. I’ve met lots of folks in the city and I’ve always been sincere, honest and I work really hard. Maybe people seek me out for that, but I’m not sure.

Can you explain what your creative process is like when it comes to your work? What kind of research goes into it, where do you find your inspiration?

My creative process is really simple. I get an idea and I have to do it and see it through. I learn from them as they lead me to the next phase. I guess my inspiration comes from the disappearance of physical space. Nature’s conflict with the built environment also gives me ideas for projects. In terms of research I

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don’t really do it. I have a really keen sense for observation. Some people think I’m creepy at time.

What have been some of your most profound moments, projects you are most proud of as an artist?

I don’t know. I don’t really like to toot my own horn, but if I had to say; I think the speaker project that I completed was the most successful. I received a lot of national attention and I wasn’t really expecting that. In part, I was extrememly excited and yet, at the same time I was truly humbled. I don’t know. I really like the attention, but I was just really happy that I was able to develop a crazy idea and it was a success.

Have there been any key people that have influenced your career, your art, your life?

There are tons people who have influenced my career. It would take all day to name them all.

I’ve been blessed with meeting and knowing people who are extremely dedicated to their lives and lifestyles. Those people have showed me how to love what I do and how I do it.

In every aspect of my life those people are present, especially in art and skateboarding.

But honestly, at the beginning there was my grandma and my mom, then teachers after that, mentors and now people who do whatever creative thing they want and do it well. I’m really impressed with intellectual thought, gutsy actions and passionate drives.

advice, what would it be?

Are there any artists that you look up to? If so, who and why?

Staying in Chicago has definitely affected my career. I probably would have done better in another city because there is more competition and I think that’s a real good thing to keep you sharp. I stayed in Chicago for a few reasons.

One: I’ve met my wife and she has an awesome career here. Two: My kids go to a great school here in the city. Three: Properties and working in Chicago is realistic. NYC and LA would be outrageous. Four: I love Chicago!

There are lots of artists I look up to and respect, but to me it’s different. I admire the work they do, but I don’t copy them and always strive to be different and showcase my own vision. Here in Chicago, there are a lot of artists I like and respect, they inspire me to be more international and see the larger picture for my body of work.

Yet, I don’t want to share their names because I don’t want to be categorized as what they do. We do very different things. I just really appreciate what they have done and how they have done it.

What do you consider innovation in your field, how can artists continue to push the boundaries?

For me innovation is always doing the unexpected. How to do that should remain a mystery.

Have you faced any struggles or obstacles as an artist throughout your career? If so, how have you overcome?

There is always a struggle in every career. In my career I’ve always kept a patient positive outlook. My mantra has been: Chill its only temporary. You’re on the right path. Even if I have to do something else to make ends meet.

The over all focus is make it work.

If you could go back and tell your 18-yearold self one thing, or give yourself one bit of

I don’t think I can tell my 18-year-old self to do anything different. I did what I did. Shit, you’re young at that age. Have lots of fun and make those years memorable. The worst is when people grow up with regret.

How has staying in Chicago affected your career as an artist, what would you say to those who believe that you can only find great success in places like NYC or LA?

What kind of advice would you give young artists looking to turn their passion into a career that has meaning?

I would tell young artists to love what they do and to always remember that is the reason they get up in the morning. Even if they have another job that compromises their schedule. Seek, out opportunities and meet people who can connect you with opportunities. Overall, don’t be shy. It’s your work!

Any upcoming shows, gallery showings, etc that you would like to share?

One up coming show: Illinois State University galleries in Normal Illinois. Awesome galleries and great people! After that I’m hustling for new opportunities.

Where can we learn more about you and your art?

I’m googlable. But if you want to follow what I do and what I’m doing next, go to my website: www.juanangelchavez.com

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Vincent Wolff Can you tell us more about yourself, your background and how you have established yourself as such a sought after artist in Chicago?

I specialize in female figure art & pinup art, but I also have done quite a bit of outdoor art. I’ve been drawing since I was 5 years old, and studied at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago for almost 2 years. People seem to like my style, as I believe that every woman has a unique beauty, and I try to listen to my clients when creating portraits.

Can you explain what your creative process is like when it comes to your work? What kind of research goes into it, where do you find your inspiration?

Vargas, they were masters of the female figure in the pinup genre. I greatly admire the work of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Both of them, in different ways, were able to capture the classical fluidity and beauty of the human form.

What do you consider innovation in your field, how can artists continue to push the boundaries?

You have to not be afraid to make errors. You can fix almost anything, and the upside is that you stretch yourself as an artist by learning new skills. I’ve set some goals for myself this year, and all of them include doing something different than before, whether its technique or subject matter.

Usually I find a reference photo that will inspire me, and once I get permission to use it, I work from that and similar Have you faced any struggles or photos of that person or specific body part references. My obstacles as an artist throughout inspiration is beautiful women of all types; often I just find your career? If so, how have you photos that will challenge me. overcome?

What have been some of your most profound moments, projects you are most proud of as an artist?

You aren’t an artist if you don’t face obstacles. I always hit a wall when creating art; where I feel nothing is going right. I keep pushing through it until I find a solution.

I’m very proud of my collaborations with great models like Playboy’s Carlotta Champagne (4 portraits and counting) and Jax Turyna, with whom I created a pinup for FLiP Magazine that will be auctioned to benefit troops currently If you could go back and tell your treated in VA Hospitals.. Great ladies like them inspire me 18 year old self one thing, or give to create better art. I’m proud to have been published in yourself one bit of advice, what Carrie Leigh’s NUDE and FLiP magazines, among others. would it be?

Have there been any key people that have influenced your career, your art, your life?

My wife influences all of my work; she has an incredible eye for detail. She gives me tremendously insightful critiques, and she pushes me to strive for the best in each piece of art.

Don’t give up! I left art for a while, and I regret not creating anything. You only get better as you create art, and I would stress to my younger self that no matter what, keep drawing.

How has staying in Chicago affected your career as an artist, what would Are there any artists that you look up to? If so, who and you say to those who believe that why? you can only find great success in places like NYC or LA? I am a huge fan of the work of Gil Elvgren and Alberto I’m Chicago area born, and I think that

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this is the absolute greatest city in the world. Since it is centrally located, Chicago is a popular stopover for models and photographers.

What kind of advice would you give young artists looking to turn their passion into a career that has meaning?

Paint, draw, create…..just do something. If there is a particular medium or subject matter that you like best, pursue it. But stretch yourself, and don’t chase the dollars---you don’t do your best work that way. Enjoy.

Any upcoming shows, gallery showings, etc that you would like to share?

No shows scheduled as yet, but I have some commissions starting soon, as well as the aforementioned auction of my pinup art. I’m working on specific media and techniques to expand my art skills.

Where can we learn more about you and your art?

People can follow my artwork at these locations, as I post regularly: http://vincent-wolff. artistwebsites.com https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Wolff-Illustrations https://www.facebook.com/ pages/The-Female-Figure-Artof-Vincent-Michael https://twitter.com/artistvincent http://vincewolffpinupartist. tumblr.com http://instagram.com/ vincewolff2004

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Arlan DeRussy My background in the arts: I grew up around a large amount of art and books because my mother and grandmother were artistic types. I started drawing at age 3 and never stopped. When I was 8, my mom was in school and would bring me to her ceramics classes and let me play with clay while they did their collegiate stuff. As I got older I got more into graffiti and designing skateboard graphics, which were fun but I knew I wanted to do more with my art. Every time I was presented with an opportunity to do something for someone, I would; even if I wasn’t getting paid. Throughout my late teens and early 20’s I worked at numerous jobs that dealt with manual labor such as metal shops and wood shops. I loved the idea of these machines and tools that could help create great art, but I ended up just drilling holes for 8hrs a day, or sweeping floors and begging to take home scrap materials and “cutoffs”. I think one of the reasons that I’m successful with my art is because to me, the success is in the ability to have an idea and create it. Having pubic exposure and commission projects is just a byproduct of me reaching my ultimate goal in life, which is to be able to create things.

Creative process: I get inspiration many different ways. Sometimes I have built up energy and release it by tinkering in the shop, and sometimes I get ambitious and go for big things. Throughout the years, I’ve noticed that the more I feel I need a release, the bigger the project. I try to experiment with materials and shapes to see what characteristics they have, that way I have better control over my expression with a piece. I try to

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establish what I can and can’t do with what I have available to me and begin the creative process by thinking of what I want the end result to be. Usually I just tell myself: I want this to be awesome!-and then I follow that thought with a little pep talk like: seriously Arlan, you need to lay the smack down on this piece of metal! Sometimes it works, and sometimes I almost cut my finger off.

My proudest moments: My proudest moment as an artist would probably be getting to hang a sculpture of mine in one of the towers at the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier.

That project kicked my butt. I think I was more psyched about the building it was going in, than I was about the actual sculpture! Can you imagine? Having your work on display in the most iconic part of an amazing building, designed by one of the most important architects in the world? It still blows my mind to this day.

Influences: I have had many people in my life that have influenced me as an artist and designer. Aside from life itself, I would definitely say my grandmother and my mother. They’re the pure root of my being, both physically and artistically. I’ve also encountered various relationships that have filled me with both good and bad creative energy. That’s when using art as therapy comes in handy.

Artist I look up to: I’m horrible with names, but there are two or three artists that I’d definitely buy a drink. Da Vinci is probably my favorite big name creator. That guy knew how to use his head and I’m an aspiring inventor. Louis Sullivan, the architect is pretty big on my list. He designed lovely buildings and had a good eye for swirly things. And, Albert Paley out of NY. Albert has fantastic sculptures and I wish I were doing the types of big projects that he does. If he ever dies, I hope he leaves his workspace to me. Perhaps I’ll get to meet him one day too!

Boundary pushing: For me, innovation comes in various forms. It’s important to keep up with the latest tools and technology, but it’s not imperative. Experimenting with concepts, styles and materials is key to growing as an artist. I’m not big on the idea of producing something provocative just for the sake of doing it.

It reminds me of children saying the f-word just to see who notices them. I prefer when people push boundaries with their craft or have something real to say.

Struggles: As an artist, I’ve definitely had my fair share of struggles. Having limited supplies, space, time are always a given. I’ve had people steal ideas, make fun of my stuff, and ruin my work. It gets easier as you get older. Even within the last two years, I had an employer refuse to pay me for a design of a prod-

uct for their store. As if not valuing my skill or my craft wasn’t enough, the product is now being mass produced and sold in a certain big name boutique chain now. So, yeah I’ve had struggles, but I try to let it roll off my back because I’m always coming up with new stuff and I don’t need to steal to pay my bills.

18 yr old me: Dear 18 year old me, Let the drama of life, the world, your family, and undiagnosed ADHD continue to bother you. Use it as fuel for your dreams. You’ll be fine, just keep doing your art. P.S, Help your grandma more, she’s not going to be around forever. Love, Me Chicago: As attractive as it seems, moving to either of the coasts to pursue an art career seems un-natural to me. Granted there are strong scenes out there, good weather and it often seems like art is valued highly by the public, but I never got the comfort like I get from Chicago. It’s likely that I don’t see a need to go to LA or New York because I’m not chasing any dream to become the most famous artist in the world, with a name followed by “ from NY”.

I’m just a guy living my life doing art and design and I’m from Chicago.

Advice: My advice for young artists would be have fun. If you want to be rich, find a different career. If you want to feel rich, keep on working.

Upcoming shows: I hope to be scheduling an opening at my new shop/ gallery once the construction is complete. I have pieces throughout the city at galleries such as Frazier Studios, Michael LaConte Gallery, and Ancien Cycles. Also, I may have accidentally left a very large sculpture at The Fulton Art Collective, where I preformed a live sculpt while an awesome jazz band played.

If you want to learn more or see more, I’ve got a website www.derussydesigns.com and an email Arlanderussy@ yahoo.com

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and working with various mediums of art i.e. lithography, photography, textile, designing and sketching my love and compassion lies in Stain Glass and Photography. After attending the Art Institute of Chicago, life was about getting married and raising a family. Married of 38 years this June, two children 32 and 29 both married and four beautiful granddaughters. Even though with raising a family my eye never strayed away from my passion of art. Freelancing became a part of my life while raising our family. Now that my family is grown I have been able to jump back full time into my passion which is the love and the creativity of my artistic talents of Art. The word “Art” is not a hobby... I call it my “Life”. My hobby is being a season ticket holder with the Chicago Lyric Opera House, attending the Elgin Symphony, painting interior homes, golfing, reading, experiencing life that has not been touched and being involved with charitable organizations.

Can you explain what your creative process is like when it comes to your work? What kind of research goes into it, where do you find your inspiration?

Dona A. Stretch Can you tell us more about yourself, your background and how you have established yourself as such a sought after artist in Chicago?

My name is Dona Stretch born and raised in Chicago and grew up in a blue collar family. I didn’t know when I’ve never had the love, passion and interest in art. Upon completion of graduating from St. Benedicts High School located on Irving Park Road in Chicago, Illinois, I received a four year scholarship to attend the Art Institute of Chicago which I pursued. Studying

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My creativity process of my work comes from within. LET ME EXPLAIN. Where ever I go my camera is always close to my reach. For it is that split second of time, that if you blink that moment of capture is gone and is in the past. For it is that moment that you see with the naked eye to expunge on the feeling and create the emotion it brings you to elaborate your talent. My creativity comes from an inner passion of working with my hands, my mind and thought process of creating something that is beautiful within the emotion of who I am and hopefully have people enjoy what they see through their eyes. One of the things that I enjoy when creating my art work is that I have the ability to let go and get lost in the moment and really pour myself into my work. I allow my mind to be completely blank with no outside distraction which is wonderful and rewarding.

I’m living the moment of which the majority of people don’t know how to do because they are always thinking want they need to do tomorrow or the next day. I’m in the realm of my own

awareness to put it bluntly.

What have been some of your most profound moments, projects you are most proud of as an artist?

As of January 2015, my stain glass art work for the first time hangs in Decorators Gallery in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. I have done commissioned stain glass window panels for a brown stone home in the Gold Coast area of downtown Chicago. Designing and make stain glass “Freedom Hearts” for the Wounded Warrior Foundation in raising money and awareness.

The story behind the “Freedom Hearts” - In 2009 after my son graduated from college he decided to enlist into the Unites States Army.

With a reminder of bringing my son back home and for all military men and women that served our country. This heart that I designed still hangs in our window as a reminder to say thank you for all those who have served. A total of 50 hearts have been designed and hang in other families homes throughout the United States.

Donating my stain glass art work to raise money for charity.

Have there been any key people that have influenced your career, your art, your life?

As a young girl I can remember going over to my paternal grandparent’s house and admiring the pencil and charcoal drawing of my great grandfather Ole Valde that hung on my grandparent’s walls. I was mesmerized by the detailed work that was put into his pictures. One in particular was the gathering of the political historical people of “1776”. I was so intrigued by it, that in my sophomore year of high school I recreated its picture on an ink scratch artist board and won the Sears Scholastic Award that took first place. I can remember this as if it was yesterday. I ask my grandparents if I could borrow my great grandfathers charcoal picture off the wall to draw it and submit it for a drawing competition.

Another person that influenced me in perusing my artistic talent was my high school Art teacher by the name of Sister Irene Beader. Without her guidance and her encouragement I would have

never received a four year scholarship to attend the Art Institute of Chicago and love the passion of art the way that I do.

Are there any artists that you look up to? If so, who and why?

I have always been intrigued with Georges Seurat paintings especially “Afternoon in the Park” on Island of La Grande. Seurat famous Pointillist Painting. It is a popular park on an island in the Seine River near Paris. On my lunch breaks while attending the Art Institute of Chicago I would I would find myself visiting that picture that hangs in the Art Institute of Chicago Gallery. Seurat Post Impressionism / Pointillism was bench mark of an unusual technique of subject matter. In his picture Seurat shows many different people of different social classes participating in a majority of different activities.

How one dot formed on a canvas can be created into other dots and therefore creates an optical theory of colors and movement. For Seurat to have a technique so perfected and to create such a beautiful masterpiece took patience. Being an artist you need to have patience.

What do you consider innovation in your field, how can artists continue to push the boundaries?

Working with stain glass one needs to know what the trends are and what to produce for clients to come back and purchase your art work. Generations of different styles come and go and then return bigger and better. Artists need to go beyond their limits of creating different styles, different textures, and different methods and never put limitations on themselves or their ability to push boundaries.

Have you faced any struggles or obstacles as an artist throughout your career? If so, how have you overcome?

Yes, I have had to overcome obstacles in my life as being an artist, however I wouldn’t label it as an obstacle. I would call it as “Having a Family”.

My life had to be devoted to raising two children

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and putting my career on the back burner for a short time. Yes, I have overcome it. I always had my eye on my art talent but I could not devote myself 100%. To keep my hands in the fold I did some freelancing. When my children were at their teenage years that’s when I regained my passion of art in full swing mode. I went back into learning and took stain glass classes.

If you could go back and tell your 18 year old self one thing, or give yourself one bit of advice, what would it be?

Never lose sight of your passion that gives you the drive to feel free. Never give up on a passion that you hold so true into being yourself.

How has staying in Chicago affected your career as an artist, what would you say to those who believe that you can only find great success in places like NYC or LA? All I can say is “Success” is where you make it! The only person that holds you back is yourself. You need to go to the source; the source doesn’t come to you. If you want your artwork to be seen and taken seriously you need to circulate yourself. You can spend a lot of money in Marketing and advertising; however the best Marketing tool is you. As an artist you need to get out into the community in meeting people. Go into galleries and see if new artist are being taken on. But the one most important tool is never give up on a passion of which that is you. Success is not a given thing, it is something that is nurtured and grows into potential. I have been working on being an artist almost all my life and I will always be working on it. Share the beauty you see with your eyes with others.

What kind of advice would you give young artists looking to turn their passion into a career that has meaning?

First I would say go for it! Don’t give up or give in if things don’t move as fast as you would want them to move, Rome wasn’t create in a day. Be patient with your results and embrace your achievement no matter how small they are.

Don’t be afraid to get your feet wet if you’re up

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against a challenge that takes you out of the box. But also make sure that your enjoy the ride.

Any upcoming shows, gallery showings, etc that you would like to share?

These are the events that I have on my calendar for stain glass / photography art exhibits; May 2, 2015 - Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Fashion Derby which will be held at Stone Gate in Schaumberg, Illinois, May 3, 2015 - Elgin Symphony Fund Raiser Anvil Club in West Dundee, Illinois Coming in Fall 2015 Annual Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Auxiliary Gala (location undetermined October 10,11,12- 2015 Egg Harbor, Wisconsin Pumpkin Festival Wounded Warior Foundation Project in raising money for Wounded Warriors and their families. Stain Glass Freedom Hearts always available to purchase for $65.00. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Wounded Warrior Foundation.

Purchases can be made at email: visionaryglas@ gmail.com or website:wwwfacebook.com/ visionaryglass Where can we learn more about you and your art? email: visionaryglas@gmail.com or website:wwwfacebook.com/visionaryglass

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VisuaLStimuluS_ VISUALSTIMULUSDESIGN

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Halfstack Highlight

ARTISTIC BLOOMS

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In the early years of our lives, we all have dreams and ideas for our future. But, as we grow up, our visions undoubtedly change.

Adam Havrilla, owner and Creative Director of floral design company, Artistic Blooms, is an exception to the rule. From the young age of 17, Havrilla knew he wanted to pursue a career in floral design. From there, the seed for this passion grew, and before he knew it, he was the owner of his own floral design business.

Since venturing out as an entrepreneur, Havrilla has expanded his business to offer event planning and full décor styling services. His new office/event space, located near Chinatown, offers a variety of private event, wedding, and design services.

We met up with Havrilla to talk with him about life as a business owner and, of course, flowers!

Half Stack: What inspired the start of Artistic Blooms?

Adam Havrilla: I can’t pinpoint one specific thing but it was a series of events that inspired me to start Artistic Blooms. I love what I do and I could not think of doing anything else.

I came up with the name Artistic Blooms because I believe floral design should be Artistic and Blooms refers to all the stunning natural flowers/foliage that we utilize in our designs. I also wanted to incorporate my daughter’s and my initials into the name. The monogram (logo) is a special tribute to our relationship.

HS: Why did you decide to pursue your own business?

AH: I have always liked the idea of being my own boss and wanted to have more control of the events and projects that I work on, so when the company I was working for closed, I thought now is as good of a time as any.

HS: What services does Artistic Blooms offer?

Artistic Blooms offers full décor styling services that include: flower design, room draping, candlelight, custom floor plans and renderings, tabletop accessories and linen selection for weddings and special events.

We also have a “weekly business floral program” which is a great way for companies to enhance their lobbies, reception areas and offices by using flowers to create a warm welcome for your clients and staff from the moment they walk through your door.

HS: Can you tell us more about the floral design classes you offer?

AH: I decided to offer classes because I wanted to teach people how flowers can fit into their daily lives and not just for special occasions. Our classes are a great introduction to floral design. We go over the flowers the students will be working with and teach the basic fundamentals of arrangement. Students get to work at their own pace while my team and I are available

PHOTOGRAPHY & Interview by: Perry E. Fish Layout by: Kali Koller

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to answer any questions and offer advice.

The classes are perfect for a “girls night out”, Bachelorette party, bridal shower or for anyone that wants to learn more about flowers, their care and design.

a room that serves as a design area, but can also be used as a caterer’s kitchen for private events.

HS: What are you looking forward to in this upcoming year for Artistic Blooms?

HS: Do you have a favorite flower?

AH: My favorite flower is the tuberose.

HS: What do you enjoy most about what you do?

AH: I really enjoy the creative aspect of my job. I also enjoy working with, and getting to know my clients and having the privilege of being part of their special event.

HS: Can you tell us about your new and improved office/event space?

AH: When I was looking for a new studio, I knew I wanted a multi-functional space.

The entire space can be utilized for private events. Our classroom and consultation room has a stunning view of the Chicago River and Ping Tom Memorial Park, which provides amazing inspiration. We also have a beautiful showroom where clients can see different draping techniques and rental items that we offer. In addition, we also have

AH: There are many things I am looking forward to this year. I am looking forward to continuing to build my business and creating more “once in a lifetime” events for clients.

In April, I will be part of Macy’s 2015 Flower Show: “Art in Bloom”, where Artistic Blooms will have a floral display inside the State Street Store and I will be teaching a workshop about how to incorporate flowers into daily life.

I was also recently elected Vice President of the Illinois State Florists’ Association (ISFA). ISFA provides support and education to the florists of Illinois. This position has allowed me to meet some fantastic floral designers from Illinois and around the country.

My experience has exposed me to various arts, culture and design that I am truly grateful for. Till this day, nothing is more fulfilling than transforming the beauty of nature into a creative work of art.

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Chicago Industry Creative: Vividbraille

By Teresa Espinoza, Fashion & Style Editor

I remember hearing a quote that really stuck out to me once, “Blending in by Sticking out, It’s the New York City way”. When I first heard that quote I thought, that’s actually the Chicago way as well. So if that’s the case then how do you differentiate yourself from so many of those creatives in the fashion industry that “stick out”? Vividbraille is finding a way to do exactly that.

Vividbraille is the brainchild of owner Brock Willsey. The label itself was launched in 2003 and strived to epitomize American-made craftsmanship and street style. From start to end Vividbraille designs and sketches are created in store by Brock. The Vividbraille store located at 2064 North Damen Ave in Chicago , brings world class brands to its customers like Yuketen, Saucony Elite, Opening Ceremony and Vogue Fashion Fund Award Winner- Public School NYC. But what really sets Vividbraille apart from all the other boutiques in Chicago is their creative studio. Here they offer classes in fashion-design, screen-printing and even leather working. It’s what sets them apart from so many other countless labels/boutiques in Chicago and makes them a real industry creative.

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“Blending in by Sticking out, It’s the New York City way”

HSM: When you first thought of the concept for Vividbraille, what were your hopes for it?

HSM: What were some of your biggest obstacles in starting up Vividbraille?

Brock Willsey: My mindset when I first started Vividbraille was to create a world-renowned label that conveyed the story behind the products we designed and sold. There was an obvious personal reason just wanting to be able to build something that I could do everyday and love. Basically a platform that I could create from. When I think back at my mindset then, I always refer to myself as delusional. The funny thing is our goal is still to create a worldrenowned label that tells stories through our work. I think the biggest difference then was that I thought it would be a year or two and life would be bliss!

Brock Willsey: I would say the biggest obstacle would definitely be adjusting my mindset and growing as a person. Coming where I came from, the mindset is totally different. It isn’t a mindset that is out to be successful. It is more of a mindset of survival. For me just learning basic business stuff and gaining that confidence has been my biggest challenge but also my biggest source of pride as I continue to learn.

HSM: How would you describe the Vividbraille customer?

Brock Willsey: I would put The Vividbraille customer in the very sophisticated independent thinking category of Chicago. We are very lucky

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to attract the type of people that we do to our shop. I think they inspire us just as much if not more than we inspire them. I’d say the one thing they all have in common is they don’t give a F***. Ha no really!

HSM: For those who haven’t already checked out your store what can someone find there?

Brock Willsey: An assortment of apparel and art that you can’t typically find in a lot of shops in Chicago. The vibe is contemporary but from the “love of the craft studio perspective” with a dash of urban influences sort of thing. Our private label, which is all made in Chicago, is a big part of what we do. Many times you will see hand cut patterns lying around the space along with our Juki sewing machine or our four-color manual press. The entire top of the space is lined with books, it was my own sort of “homage” I guess to being self-taught and not going to college.

HSM: What do you think sets yourself apart from other shops in Chicago?

Brock Willsey: I think we do things a little bit more “our own way” than say most stores which look and feel a little more “rigid” and follow the status quo.

HSM: Where did the idea for offering classes in screen-printing and leather working come from? It’s something so unique!

Brock Willsey: Yes thank you to be honest that was not in the original plans. The sewing machine and printing press was all in our space from day one but that was there originally for us to design and work from. I knew when we opened the shop that we would have to remain very flexible as it was our first attempt at retail and we were learning on the go. It was just an idea that came up and the more we thought about it the more we liked it. We’ve always been the brand that did it the “old school blue collar” way, just continuing to design and produce by hand and slowly but surely make a name for ourselves. I think it is great we can share some of those skills we have acquired along the way with others. The classes have really been a big part of who we are.

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HSM: Is there anything else you’d like to branch into at Vividbraille that you haven’t done so already?

Brock Willsey: Yes of course as designer that’s all I really want to do is get my hands in as many things as possible and do it at a very high level whatever medium it is. I think interior spaces and furniture is something we have already had our hands in and want to do more of, I think it’s an age thing! But as I get older and start to “settle” down my living space and interior spaces in general is something I tend to obsess over more and more.

“love of the craft studio perspective”

HSM: Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs out there who are trying to get into the industry?

Brock Willsey: Yeah, I think there are so many different ways to make it but the core things always stay the same. You know working hard.

Really, really hard. Your word being good and just being a genuine person and willing to commit everything you have to something for an extended period of time. There were so many times over the last twelve years I thought about giving up. My life would be completely different if I would have given up in just one of those moments. I’m very thankful and fortunate.

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Traci Ciccarelli Designs: Life is Art in Progress Written by: Cora Vasseur Layout by: Annabel Carrillo I’m a firm believer everything happens for a reason and everything we experience leads us towards our destination. Traci Ciccarelli is a fashion designer with a story as unique as her designs. Many designers will reminisce about sewing at their little Fisher Price sewing machine before they could walk, staging fashion shows with their stuffed toys, but that doesn’t make them any more of a designer. Traci took a sewing class in eighth grade and didn’t like it. (“The teacher was mean,” she joked.)Her start makes you want to root for her because it’s accessible, relatable, and you just want to be on her team. Traci started her fashion career in the Navy.

Traci felt the Navy was the best route for her; you get to travel and get an education. She was one of two girls on the ship. The guys made it quite clear they didn’t want her there. They thought she’d be a prissy girl, but she showed them, saying she was a modern day Rosie the Riveter.

“I was a turbine mechanic,” she said. “I didn’t know anything when I arrived, but I worked my butt off and showed them.” She started sewing onboard because, even though she was also moving up the ranks, when her fellow soldiers moved up, they’d need new patches on uniforms and things moved. They’d bring their uniforms to her. While it ruffles my feathers this woman made it into the Navy, did her job, worked hard, and was promoted like any of the men and they brought her their sewing, she is much more graceful. She discovered she really enjoyed sewing and people could pay her to do this.

Photography by: Aimee Jeane Elizabeth Shot on location at: Circa Modern Models: Halee Nordhues and Denise Guevarra

Art Direction: Jennifer M. Veguilla-Lezan

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She started watching “Project Runway” in her downtime on the ship.

While many looked at colleges and universities, she used her GI Bill to go to fashion school, the Illinois Institute of Design in Schaumburg.

She started taking apart garments and putting them back together to learn how things worked. She made aprons for the family.

Her style flourished at the Institute. She loves a modern vintage look, garments with an architectural piece-y feel.

“It’s simple, but something to look at when you’re up close,” she says.

She wants people to be inspired when they wear her creations, saying they should enjoy what they wear.

Her influences like Chanel, Lagerfeld, Betsy Johnson, and Steve McQueen were supplemented with costume designer, Katherine Martin. Before everything, Traci was in theatre and loves musical theatre. Traci’s very interested in costume design; she feels the two combined, fashion and costume design, would be a great career. If you like the above designers, you’ll enjoy Traci’s work. The influences are evident in her work, but are a springboard for her expression.

“I asked a friend if clothes were hung up or in a pile, would you be able to tell which ones were mine,” she says. “She said, ‘Oh yeah, I know your style.”

She finds all aspects of fashion design fun. She loves the designing to seeing people’s reaction to it. If people want to buy it, that’s even better. While her fashion voice is becoming evident, she’s not restricting herself to one area at the moment.

“During a break, I was just messing around and I made a cat onesie people loved,” she said.

Traci’s running into a challenge many artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs face: people wanting a custom, unique experience, but they don’t want to pay for that experience. They bulk at $100 for a dress. She wants people to know all the steps involved in the creation.

“The printing, the cutting, the making, I do it all myself,” she says.

“You’re getting something tailored for you and I try to make it affordable.” It’s an education process and also perceived value.

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Consumers will pay several zeroes on a price tag for the name “Chanel”, but not for someone new to the game. But we also love hearing the stories of someone buying one of an artist’s first pieces, before they became that name. You have the opportunity to tell that story. (Just saying.)

Looking forward, Traci is moving to California and hopes to continue making clothes and pursue costume design. She’s contacted a couple of theatre companies in the Bay area where she’s heading. When asked if she’d like to go on a show like “Project Runway”, she feels she needs more experience and sew more garments. She throws herself into everything she does, even if there’s a fear of “I don’t know what I’m doing” or if the project will work out. She always hopes for the best.

“My life went from theatre to the Navy, from mechanic to fashion design,” she says. “Art is life. If I can get a job in art, I’ll be happy.”

I don’t usually recommend reality TV as a career path, but I hope she considers “Project Runway”. I think Tim Gunn would like her and her story: someone doing their duty for their country, fixing turbines during the day, dealing with the you’renot-welcome mat, curling up for reality TV at night, breaking down her military jacket to learn how to put it together. After all, to paraphrase his catchphrase, she’s making it work.

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|HERALDING A RENAISSANCE|

The Harris Theater Announces Five Year Collaboration with Kronos Quartet

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Written by: Cora Vasseur Layout: Kali Koller

I knew when I heard about The Harris Theater teaming up with ground breaking quartet Kronos it was big. The way people talked about it. The way the eyes of people who just found out slowly spread across their face and quietly asked, “Really?” afraid the speaker was teasing them. As I started researching before my interview with the President and Managing Director of The Harris Theater, Michael Tisnik, I began to understand how big. It reminded me of the definition of “infinite” in Douglas Adam’s The Restaurant at the End of the Universe in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series: “Bigger than the biggest thing ever and then some.

Much bigger than that in fact, really amazingly immense, a totally stunning size, real “wow, that’s big,” time.”

But it’s true: The cutting-edge, forward- thinking Harris Theatre has announced a five year collaboration with the Kronos Quartet, the farthest thing from the traditional idea of a string quartet you can get. This endeavor is part of Kronos’ Fifty for the Future: the Kronos Learning Repertoire. The quartet will create fifty new works, ten per year over the next five years.

The Music Institute of Chicago has been named as primary education partner for the project with one of the goals being to prepare and educate up-and-coming students and performers to perform today’s music.

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This relationship blossomed as Kronos was preparing for their March 17th performance at The Harris with Laurie Anderson in “Landfall”, a collection of works composed on hyperviolin, inspired by Hurricane Sandy. The Harris being known as a pioneering, progressive theater no doubt played a part in forming the partnership.

The Harris has made name for itself with dance, and looks forward to making inroads into the music community.

“We are The Harris Theater of Music and Dance,” Tiknis says.

This trail blazing is one of the ways The Music “No question did the qualities play a part in the Institute of Chicago is going to benefit from this relationship and also the reputation of Kronos partnership. As the Vermeer taught at Northbeing a cutting edge music organization,” Tiknis ern Illinois University, Kronos will be teaching said during the phone interview. “We got to master classes at the Music Institute and holdexploring more of what Kronos was doing and ing artist talks to “explore the necessary techhad a bunch of conversations about how to nical, aesthetic, and ethical qualities of the 21st continue this relationship and that was Fifty for century musician”. the Future.”

“At the Music Institute of Chicago, we are deAlready with a great start, this partnership will veloping the musicians and audiences for the further help put The Harris (and Chicago) on 21st century,” said Mark George, President and the international map as a leader in the arts CEO of the Music Institute of Chicago. “Fifty world. for the Future is an invaluable opportunity for our students to work with the most innovative “This collaboration is an important step in demusicians and composers in the world. We are veloping the Harris Theater’s reputation for thrilled and honored to be a part of it.” On top having a worldwide influence in creating new of master classes, some students may get the works of classical music,” Tiknis said in the opportunity to perform with Kronos. Just as press release. During the interview he elaboathletes feel the energy and level change playrated The Harris likes to think they present ing with professionals, musicians will pick up the most cutting edge and very best perforon the nuances, play to that level, and assimimances from organizations from around the late it in their practices. world and certainly Kronos fits that bill. When considering a new work, whether it’s a com“The students get to play pieces by important, position or dance, one of the most important new emerging artists from around the world,” questions you want to ask yourself is, “Will this said Tiknis. Chicago’s finest musicians are gowork be performed again?” When you think of ing to play these pieces for the first time. As Beethoven for example you think of a catalogue Kronos finishes playing a work all the partnerof work, there’s longevity to it and that adds to ships around the world are able to have perits genius. That’s one of things they saw in this formances, not just by Kronos, but by other long term project and that quality adds more groups. value than just creating the work.

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Fifty for the Future is a part of the Carnegie Hall’s 125th anniversary celebration where they have commissioned one hundred and twentyfive new works. The quartet likened Fifty for the Future to Bartok’s Microkosmos which he created to entice his son to play piano. They explained students and professionals are wellversed in Hayden and 20th century composers, but there is nothing out there to hone their technique and approaches to play composers of our century.

Illinois has the same advantage as someone in the city in an academy.

The works will be graded in difficulty from beginner to professional, average in five to ten minutes in length, and represent a full body of work. They will be available online as a standalone module, but downloadable scores will also be available as well as supplemental materials to take learning to the next level. This level of accessibility and leveling of the playing field hasn’t been done before. What this means is a string quartet out in rural DeKalb,

Kronos has tapped fifty composers, twenty-five men and twenty-five women, from around the world to work with them. The list of ten is released each year, showing the different line up.

Tiknis is especially excited to see one of Kronos’ first works with The Harris Theater which is with Jonathan Berger, San Francisco Bay Area-based composer and Stanford University Professor of Music. They have created a monodrama, an opera for one character, about one of the most difficult

Audience members can also become involved in Kronos’ presence. When the quartet is here in March, Tisnik would like to discuss vehicles for audience involvement including talkback sessions with the performers, open master classes where fans can see the performers teaching and working, and many more ideas to allow people to see behind the scenes and get up close to Kronos.

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same you expect of the Harris,” says Tiknis.

“Works that are breath-takingly beautiful, con“It’s going to be interesting and thought provoking,” sciously annoying. We hope you never see something that you don’t talk about whether you liked it said Tiknis. or know your horizons were expanded.”

Kronos will be based out of the Harris for the next five year and Tisnik would like to foster partnerWith the community building and pushing the envelope artistically, The Harris is creating a renaisships across the city. One of the relationships they’d like to create is with the Netherlands Dance sance in Chicago much like that of Chicago in the 1970’s when now internationally known, nameTheatre which is returning to The Harris this dropping theatre companies like Steppenwolf and spring as well as the resident dance company, Hubbard Street were just getting started. Chicago Hubbard Street Dance Company. (After seeing resident choreographer, Alejandro Cerrudo’s, cause will become a hub of classical music. We are trainand effect organic choreography in Wendy Whel- ing our musicians for the future, giving them an an’s “Restless Creature”, so would I.) Tisnik would edge in a very competitive world, as well as creatalso like to something with Chi Arts, Chicago’s new ing once in a lifetime experiences from premieres high school for the arts, and the Chicago Academy to provocative performances for audience members that will move theater veterans and newbies of Arts. alike.

“We’d 86 like you to see more and deeper into the times in American history, the My Lai Massacre.

Written by: Pearl Shin Layout: Kali Koller

H ave you ever shopped inside of a

bright orange 1976 Dodge RV before?

Neither have I, and that, I believe, is what makes the experience of shopping at Lost Girls Vintage ever more special. Lost Girls Vintage is a Chicago-based business that is run by two fun, innovative, and business-minded people: Sarah Azzouzi and Kyla Embrey. The two women venture across the city in their RV (which they bought off of Craigslist) and set up shop spontaneously. There, they are able to offer their collection of vintage goods to their customers. The business was established in 2012 and has made quite an impression since then.

Sarah and Kyla first met through a game of dice called Farkle!, a game that is based on taking risks. The game is based on the idea of “No risk, no reward�. That mantra had become their guiding principle and has been with them ever since. The two had officially started working together in the autumn of 2012. At the time, they had only known each other for a few months. They originally started their business by selling their vintage items at markets during the weekends. Not too long after, Sarah and Kyla got the idea of starting their own official business and opened a pop-up shop on a patio at a local coffee shop. Although they briefly considered opening a

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traditional store, they quickly decided against it, instead opting for the unconventional choice, a travelling store.

From then on out, they purchased an RV off of Craigslist and ran with their business idea.

The RV that they purchased inevitably became the third member of their team. The vehicle, which the ladies affectionately named “Winnie” is a 1976 Dodge RV. Since their initial purchase, the RV has been renovated with shelves, racks, and a dressing room. It was even repainted in a fun and eyecatching orange color with a chevron pattern. It would be impossible to miss Sarah and Kyla when they’re driving around the city with Winnie.

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Lost Girls Vintage gets a lot of attention from their eye-catching, and truly one of a kind shop set-up, but ultimately, it’s the contents of their store that is getting the customers to return.

The shop contains a large variety of vintage pieces from different eras. The items sold in the shop are personally selected by Sarah and Kyla to be sold in their shop. Needless to say, their tastes are impeccable and top notch.

Since opening their travelling shop, the founders of Lost Girls Vintage has met a lot of milestones. They were able to create a successful brand and image for themselves (not many people can say that they have a travelling shop based inside of an RV), create an Etsy store for patrons who are not able to

Photography courtesy of Perry Fish

come out to their store, and learn how to fix and manage their RV, Winnie.

Later on, they were also able to adopt a second “store” called Mini Winnie, a 1978 Scotty Gaucho camper that they use for their out of town ventures.

If you’re interested in checking out Lost Girls Vintage, you can usually see the ladies and their shop in areas around Wicker Park and Logan Square, both places that they like to frequent. Although Sarah and Kyla will be out of town for a bit, you can always check for updates of their shop on their website or even see some of their inventory that is featured on their page as well.

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SPRING 2015 By: Teresa Espinoza, Fashion & Style Editor

After the hysteria of the holiday/winter season comes the calm and tranquility of the spring season. Splashes of color emerge from winter’s dim palette and new silhouettes cut through the prior seasons. Though I am a fall fashion soul, I’m always excited to see the new color palettes, possibilities and trends a brand new year brings!

This spring season you’ll find yourself in a time capsule of sorts.

We’re taking it back to the 70’s in womenswear with the resurgence of boho chic styles, maxi dresses and fringe. The shoulder is the new “it” thing to show off in those cold shoulder tops. On both the women and men’s front there was a huge push in denim! Denim everything!

For the guy that is a huge “sneaker head”, there is no lack of options out there right now as they are “the” shoe to wear in spring. So it’s time to spring up your wardrobe with the new trends for this season!

Check out the top trends this season and where you can nab the designer look for less!

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LOOKS FOR LESS: SPRING 2015

Whether you’re a fan or not, get ready to see the boho, hippie-chic style everywhere this spring! Yes, even the bell sleeve and bellbottom pant. I just love the free spirited nature of this style! It’s got an ultra-cool nature that makes you want to slip on your mini frock and brown suede knee high boots!

From left to right: Designer: Tommy Hilfiger Sping 2015 RTW Looks for Less: Urban Outfitters- Pins and Needles Rhiannon Vest; $79.00 Urban Outfitters- Ecote Crochet Bell-Sleeve Frock Dress; $89.00 Zara- Patchwork Print Jumpsuit; $49.99 Topshop- Collide Suede High Leg Boots; $250.00

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Denim had a huge push this season and I mean huge. It was everywhere! From dresses, to miniskirts, to overalls and shirts, anything that could be made of denim was. My favorite was the oversized denim overalls paired with a striped knit sweater shown in the Sonia RTW show. If you’re on the fence with wearing denim, start with something simple like a denim jacket. If you’re more daring go for a head to toe denim look! But break it up by wearing different denim washes.

From left to right: Designer: Sonia Rykiel Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: Urban Outfitters- Levi’s Authentic Denim Trucker Jacket; $58.00 Urban Outfitters- BDG Curved-Hem Denim Dress; $79.00 Topshop- Moto Bleach Ripped Denim Shirt; $65.00 Topshop- Petite Moto Slim Lucas Boyfriend Jeans; $90.00

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LOOKS FOR LESS: SPRING 2015

I have a love affair with fringe. I just love it! Again, this trend stems from the hippie, flower child style and has a quirkiness that works great in so many areas. I love the versatility of the tunic dress from Revolve Clothing! However, by far my favorite way to wear fringe this season is on my feet! If you’re not big on fringe, I can guarantee you’ll still fall in love with fringe heels like the ones at Zara!

From left to right: Designer: Alberta Ferreti Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: Revolve Clothing- Riller & Fount Cosmo Tunic; $187.00 Zara- Fringed High Heel Sandals; $99.90 Urban Outfitters- Somedays Lovin Dex Fringe Jacket; $179.00 Shoedazzle- Raven by Shoedazzle; $45.95

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There always seems to be one area of the body that becomes the “it” thing to show each season. This spring it’s all about the shoulders. It’s a great way to show some skin without going overboard. You can do a cold shoulder top or even a one shoulder. Whichever you go for it will definitely give you that sexy appeal while not becoming vulgar.

From left to right: Designer: Vera Wang Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: ASOS.com- The Ragged Priest T-shirt Dress With Cut Out Cold Shoulder; $71.00 Topshop- Frill Cold Shoulder Dress; $85.00 Zara- Off-the-Shoulder Sweater; $199.00 Urban Outfitters- Ecote Pom Pom Trim Cold Shoulder Blouse; $59.00

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LOOKS FOR LESS: SPRING 2015

Miranda Priestly sarcastically once said, “Florals for spring? …

Groundbreaking”. Okay. So no, they are not groundbreaking, but a new floral is marketed every spring. Bold floral prints are the print of the spring and they are definitely standout pieces! Go for big bold floral prints and color!

From left to right: Designer: Michael Kors Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: ASOS.com- Little Mistress Belted Maxi Dress with Large Floral Print; $127.06 ASOS.com- ASOS Mini Wiggle Dress in Bright Floral; $93.43 Zara- Floral Pleated Skirt; $79.90 Riverisland.com- Pink Floral Print Pull on Pencil Skirt; $56.00

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When I said there was a big denim push in the fashion industry, I wasn’t kidding! It’s on the men’s front as well. The denim shirt is a classic way to pull off the denim trend. Not every guy will love the trend, but if you want to still give it a try on a smaller scale, opt for a shirt with denim accents like the Zara versions!

From left to right: Designer: Miuccia Prada Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: ASOS.com- Pepe Denim Shirt Carson Western Slim Fit Fresh Blue Dark; $59.00 Zara- Checks and Denim Shirt; $59.90 Zara- Checks and Denim Shirt; $59.90 Zara- Light wash Denim Shirt; $59.90

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LOOKS FOR LESS: SPRING 2015

The bomber jacket is really a trend that never goes out of style, and this spring season is a great time to try one out. Designers paired the bomber jacket with just about everything. Grey toned bombers are the most popular for the spring and are the most versatile. You can wear during the day and evening!

From left to right: Designer: Gieves & Hawkes Spring 2015 RTW Looks for Less: ASOS.com- ASOS Bomber Jackey; $78.48 Banana Republic- Navy Bomber Jacket; $175.00 Zara- Combined Sleeve Bomber Jacket; $59.90 Riverisland.com- Blue Chambray Bomber Jacket; $110.00

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Guys love their sneakers just as much as I love my heels. Believe me, I get it!

Sneakers for spring are big. They can be paired with so many different styles.

You can dress them up or dress them down. They can pretty much be as casual or as formal as you’d like them to be.

From top to bottom: Designer: Bottega Veneta Intrecciat Sneaker Looks for Less: ASOS.com- ASOS Woven Sneakers; $37.37 Topman- Off White Leather Slash Detail Tux Sneakers; $130.00 Zara- Color Block Sneakers; $59.90 Zara- Sneakers with Printed Sole; $59.90

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LOOKS FOR LESS: SPRING 2015

Casualwear has had a major facelift as of late. Joggers have been a big trend in both menswear and womenswear for a few seasons, so it’s clear they’re here to stay! Joggers are a great way to pull off a stylish and effortless casual look. Pair your joggers with a button-up shirt and bomber jacket on top to pull the entire look off seamlessly.

From left to right: Designer: Ovadia & Sons Spring 2015 Menswear Looks for Less: ASOS.com- Adidas Originals Skinny Joggers; $87.82 Zara- Camouflage Joggers; $59.90 Topman- Mid Grey Texture Skinny Joggers; $55.00 Zara- Jogger Pants; $59.90

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Blue is one of those colors all men love to wear and women love to see them wear. Head to toe navy is big for spring menswear. You can wear different navy tones in one outfit for an edgier look or opt for a sleek head to toe navy in one tone. Either way works great and makes for a sophisticated look.

From left to right: Designer: Bottega Veneta Spring 2015 Menswear Looks for Less: ASOS.com- ASOS Shirt in Long Sleeve with Linen Mix and Grandad Collar; $46.71 Topman- Navy Jersey Tailored Bomber Jacket; $120.00 Zara- Dark Blue Blazer Jacket; $169.00 Zara- White-Lined Faux Leather Jacket; $119.00

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Makeup Artist

773.544.4883

gorejusmakeup justinelyssalo www.gorejusmakeup.com Gorejusmakeup@gmail.com

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visit us online at: www.notasizezero.com A blog about adventures, feelings, thoughts, life experiences and fashion.

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Corri McFadden BRINGING INNOVATION TO FASHION Banan Skirt Photo - Emma Arnold

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Pink Jacket Photo - eDrop-Off

Being an entrepreneur requires specific character traits in the 20th century; not every businessperson meets the criteria. Great entrepreneurs possess not only a vision, but also have impeccable leadership skills. Not only is influence a natural quality, but it is also learned through hardships and achievements. Creating an idea and being strong enough to bring it to fruition is how entrepreneurs thrive in the industry. Corri McFadden knows first-hand about overcoming obstacles to fulfill her dream.

As founder and owner of eDrop-Off, a premier luxury consignment service, she has built up her business to be one of the largest luxury consignors in the country. As a fashion design student, McFadden developed the business plan for eDrop-off as her graduation portfolio in 2004. Her program director rejected her idea.

She pushed her mentor’s negative review aside, as she strongly felt there was a void in the consignment market. Consignment stores are known for selling items for secondhand use– who said these items can’t be designer? Corri McFadden created her consignment shop for customers to be able to buy luxury clothes, shoes, and accessories at fixed prices.

She started off with a small retail space of about 600 square feet after the grand opening for eDrop-Off; the health of the company depended on its eBay platform for the majority of sales. Using both brains and devotion, McFadden went the route less taken to start up her store.

Corri McFadden: “A lot of people want to open a beautiful, fabulous space right at the beginning and overextend themselves, and they don’t even have a real grasp on the service they’re providing. So, I built my service before I built the space to match.”

Being fresh out of college, McFadden had no money to her name. She opened eDrop-off with a line of credit and a loan.

McFadden’s strong gut feeling encouraged her to pursue the vision she had in mind for her company. McFadden gained recognition from Entrepreneur Magazine organically; she was featured in the magazine after 18 months of building her company. This was a major accomplishment considering she couldn’t afford advertising or public relations.

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Having an admirable passion for the work she put into her graduation portfolio was the start to McFadden’s prosperity. As she followed through with her plans, eDrop-Off met and surpassed her five and ten year goals. Just last year, they celebrated their 10th anniversary as one of the largest luxury consignors in the country by selling approximately 2,000 items per week, with a total of over 500,000 items sold to date. Though she may not have imagined her store to evolve into something so large, her faith in herself led to a successful company. McFadden strived to prevent consignment shopping from feeling like an interruption of one’s day. Customers sense the same luxurious feel from her secondhand store just as how one would feel if they walked into a high-end store such as Barney’s.

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Wondering exactly what you can find shopping with eDrop-Off? Chanel is and always will be a best seller that passes though its doors; there never seems to be a shortage of fans! Other best sellers include Oscar de la Renta, Isabel Marant, Prada and Valentino.

One of McFadden’s personal favorites is Christian Siriano, and you can find a special curated collection of his in stores!

It is obvious that eDrop-Off has plenty to offer, but do you have anything to contribute? There comes a time every spring to refresh our closets– don’t just throw out your clothes and accessories! Sell your designer pieces to eDrop-Off for easy and fast cash. To make things even easier, McFadden developed the “free closet clean” option where she visits client’s homes for a more personal approach. This unique service creates strong relationships and has been fulfilling in McFadden’s eyes. She has been proud to help clients through difficult

Tree Photo - Emma Arnold

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times in their lives, whether they’re downsizing or dealing with a loss.

In addition to the eBay platform and Lincoln Park store, her company recently launched a second store location in the Gold Coast and a new eCommerce site, The Collection. eDrop-Off clients can now purchase items at set prices with 100% new merchandise launching every two weeks!

Corri McFadden: “I am really excited about this latest venture and just want to keep this momentum going through 2015.”

This isn’t the only thing to be excited about! Corri McFadden’s jewelry collection consists of all repurposed vintage jewelry that is created as contemporary pieces. This collection is available through her self-titled website.

Corri McFadden: “I wanted to create my own jewelry line because it all goes back to my love for everything fashion and the reason I went to school in the first place. It’s all about finding unique ways to make yourself relevant and known.”

Whether you need some one-of-a-kind bracelets or a stunning necklace– her line is sure to catch your attention! From an assortment of different styles, you can browse through fun and funky accessories to give your outfit that extra something. Her spring accessories have a theme of nature, including animals and flowers in her designs.

Add a hint of sparkle and a pinch of culture to your ensemble; keep your eye out for Corri McFadden’s spring influence and unique collections to further your wardrobe!

Corri McFadden has also evolved herself as a Style Expert. Stay updated on where to be, the season’s new must-haves and what to eat, read and watch with McFadden’s own site, corrimcfadden.com.

Her amazing talents, dedication and stylist experience assisted her in becoming the successful woman she is today. Since 2004 eDrop-off has been established as a Titanium Power Seller on eBay with over 300,000 successful transactions. Offering an assortment of gently used authentic designer clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry and accessories, eDrop off is a favored hot spot for trendy shoppers.

Written by: Olivia Lemley Layout: Kali Koller

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www.corrimcfadden.com

Sequins Top photo - eDrop-Off

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Halfstack Highlight

Q&A WITH PATTERNBASE 110

Just past the front door, I am greeted by a happy collection of sunbathing houseplants, a beta fish with a changing name, and the contagious sense of inspiration.

Located in the heart of Humbolt Park, is the home base/shared living space of acquaintances, turned friends, now business partners, Kristi O’Meara and Audrey Keiffer, Co-founders of Chicago-based textile design studio and gallery, The Patternbase, O’Meara and Keiffer were undoubtedly destined to collaborate to bring this now quickly growing movement to life.

A stash of paintbrushes is kept close by in glass containers on the sill of a luminous window, a pleasant divide between adjacent workspaces, stationed in two corners of the main room. O’Meara, with a background in painting and graphic design, founded and is also the Creative Director of The Patternbase. In 2009, she received her B.F.A in Painting from the Kansas City Art Institute and from there, began to work with other inspiring artists. Also a graduate of the Kansas City Art Institute, Keiffer received a B.A. in English. While she is currently working as a freelance designer for studios like Aryn West and hunt+gather, she is also a contributing designer and the editor of The Patternbase.

These two talented and oh, so stylish ladies tell us how it all started and where they hope to go from here!

Halfstack: How did the idea of The Patternbase come to life?

Kristi O’Meara: The Patternbase originally started as a Tumblr blog in 2011, right after I moved to Chicago. It was initially set up to be a blog of collected patterns for personal inspiration, but after a couple of months I realized that the blog was quickly gaining a large following and that there seemed to be a widespread, collective interest in patterns emerging. I wanted to explore this more so I expanded the blog into a full website, began conducting interviews with textile artists and fashion designers, and started focusing all my energy on learning more about the textile and fabric design industries.

After seeing the success of the pattern archive and the positive response the website was receiving, I knew I wanted to see a version of The Patternbase in physical form, and decided to produce a book which focused on how a creative digital aesthetic has emerged as a defining characteristic of the surface and pattern design industry. About midway through laying out the book project, I realized I was in over my head and needed help, so I invited Audrey to join me as the co-founder of The Patternbase and editor of our book. The publication is now scheduled to be released by Thames & Hudson Publishing in June 2015, and is currently available for pre-order on our website.

PHOTOGRAPHY & Interview by: Perry E. Fish Layout by: Kali Koller

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Since completing our work on the book, Audrey and I have began thinking about our plans for the future and what a physical version of what The Patternbase has evolved into online might look like.

Thanks to a grant we received from The Propeller Fund, we have the exciting opportunity to open a boutique gallery space in Chicago this summer where we will display fine art and limited runs of designer clothing and jewelry from artists and designers who work primarily with patterns.

HS: Can you tell us a little about your history?

How did you two come to be business partners?

Audrey Keiffer: It’s funny, we both attended the same high school, but weren’t friends at the time. I consider us both kind of independent weirdoes at the time, and our paths didn’t cross until later in college in Kansas City, Missouri. I don’t know if Kristi remembers, but we once got together and talked about a vintage Etsy business very early on.

Clearly, we were entrepreneurial from the very beginning! Anyway, we attended different colleges, but had similar mutual friends.

We stayed friends after she moved to Chicago. I got connected with The Patternbase remotely a couple of years later when she asked me to start writing and editing for the

website and archive.

I think that life always connects and makes sense, even when it doesn’t seem like it at the beginning. I always felt an unexplainable drive to move to Chicago and be a surface designer, which felt odd at times because it’s an industry that thrives the most on the coasts. I was supposed to move here years ago to start, but made the sidetrack to Kansas City after a series of unexpected events, where I connected with Kristi. I think about how The Patternbase is bigger than us, so I had to make that sidetrack!

HS: What inspires you most when it comes to patterns?

AK: I’m in a transition phase right now with my patterns and aesthetic. For the past year or two I have been very inspired by avant-garde interior design, textile design, and fashion design. I often think of the colors and graphic shapes of The Memphis Group or ‘80s prints. But now I find myself being drawn towards different kinds of prints depending on the product I see as the final result. I am currently working on a pattern that’s very ‘60s pop art and mod inspired that is better suited for upholstery and furniture.

I want to collaborate with a furniture

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designer for some of these patterns.

Along different lines, I’m also working on a series of drawings with watercolor, marker, and graphite that I see as a blueprint for silk scarves that I will expand into this spring when I have access to a studio. I am all over the place right now with my inspiration, but see it coming together in large scale, physical products and designs.

KO: I’m very inspired by studying the different compositions of traditional patterns, and how the use of different design techniques or adding specific elements to a pattern can result in different optical effects. To me, designing an effective pattern feels like a solving a puzzle and I really enjoy discovering how different types of patterns work.

In regards to imagery and color schemes, I am inspired by the colors and patterns I see when I close my eyes at night, decaying tiles and erosion of the city that I see when I’m out walking Chicago, decaying textiles and how patterns can be broken down or unraveled. Work from artists like Bridget Riley, Josef Albers, Gustav Klmit, and William Morris. Pattern trends happening in fashion, specifically textiles used by Proenza Schouler, Kenzo, and Stella McCartney, plus many other emerging designers. I spend a lot of time on Tumblr and Instagram in search of fresh, new work and to keep an eye on emerging trends.

HS: Among other accomplishments, you have produced a book titled, The Pattern Base: Over 550 Contemporary Textile & Surface Designs. What was the process of creating this publication like?

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KO: After deciding that I wanted to put together a book based on The Patternbase archive, I put out a call for artist submissions online and set up a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds that I could apply toward the costs of production. Luckily, the project was fully funded, and I was able to begin the curation process and design layout of the book.

The process started by looking through all the digital submissions that had been

sent to me, and picking out the ones I thought best defined what was happening in the textile design community at that time. After sending acceptance letters to the designers whose work I chose, I printed out all the designs and began arranging them into categories based on genre, motifs, color schemes, etc. It took me almost a year to arrange the design into a format that made sense. From there I translated the hard copy form into digital form in Adobe InDesign. Around that time I had just started working remotely for an online publishing company, designing book covers and laying out manuscripts, and that experience proved to be very helpful in this process. About midway, I realized that this was too large of a project to undertake on my own, and that the manuscript text needed some cleaning up, so I called Audrey, who I had kept in touch with over the past few years, and asked if she would be interested in joining me as the co-founder of The Patternbase team. She said yes, and took over all the editing responsibilities associated with the publication and the website, which allowed me to focus fully on the design and layout of the publication. After about two years of work, we had a hefty book sample that we decided to send out to traditional publishing companies, even though my original plan had been to self publish the book. Fortunately, we captured the interest of one of our top three favorite traditional publishers, Thames & Hudson Publishing. After Thames & Hudson said they were interested in releasing the book, we spent about a year working with them to refine the version we had originally sent them, developing new cover ideas, and discussing contracts and marketing options. Overall, this project has been a long and extremely valuable learning process.

AK: I got involved with the book halfway through, after Kristi curated the designs and was in the midst of putting it together. At the time, I had finished my BA in English, was knowledgeable about the publishing industry, and had worked on a literary magazine before graduation.

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I think the biggest thing I learned was that my experience in smaller presses was not the same as working with larger scale publishing companies, but the same time scale applies. It often takes very long to get anything done, which honestly, is a good thing! I think that with print and books we often forget about the process that goes into the design, editing, writing, and curating of every photo and piece of text. We are so used to the rapid fire of the internet. It taught me to slow down and get immersed in the experience of the work. Additionally, even before Thames and Hudson got involved, the book took far longer than we figured it would. As we move into finding and raising a physical space for the gallery and boutique, we are going to use these lessons in time as a way to connect with patience that is required for such a long process.

HS: You have collaborated with companies like Bucketfeet in the past. What was it like working with them? What other companies have you enjoyed collaborating with?

AK: Bucketfeet contacted me at a time when I thought my portfolio online wasn’t very good. I made myself put my work up because it’s very important, and you never know what someone else will see that you don’t. It gave me so much more confidence in my ability as a surface designer, which I am endlessly thankful for. Beyond that, they’ve been wonderful to work with. The entire staff is nothing but very kind and down-to-earth. I’ve enjoyed working with them and hope to manage to make five seconds of time to work with them on other designs!

Companies like Bucketfeet do things in a new way that focuses on collaboration with artists, which has proved to work out for them in many ways. I find their process inspiring and something we can relate with as we transform this year.

KO: In the past year we’ve also worked with a number of companies who specialize in custom printed products. Last year, in addition to working with Bucketfeet, we also collaborated with a custom nail wrap company based out of New York called, Appliq. We put together a collection of 13 designs to be printed onto real nail polish wraps, which are printed in Appliq’s production studio, and sold on their website as well as ours.

We’ve also just finished a collaboration with a custom wallpaper company called DesignYourWall.com. We’ve provided them with about two dozen designs, which they translate into a variety of wall coverings that customers can view and purchase on their website. Our most current collaboration is with a company called Print All Over Me, which specializes in print-on-demand garments. We’ve been ordering prototypes from them featuring our prints, and plan to release a full collection in collaboration with them later this year.

HS: What are your favorite mediums to work with?

AK: I am still an amateur with watercolor, because it takes a very long time to master. It’s my favorite medium by far, and the length it takes to master it is what draws me in as well.

I don’t like feeling that I am not challenged by a medium or aesthetic that I am drawn to. I like the level of unpredictability in watercolor.

There are so many layers that are created immediately, and that attracts me. My love of watercolor has fed my desire for silk painting as well.

KO: My favorite mediums still revolve very much around hand drawn techniques. Lately I’ve noticed that I’m using a lot of paint pens and heavy inks on top of acrylic paints, watercolors, and gouache. I think of my pieces more as paintings because they tend to have so many different layers of inks, paints, and foils. I also love work with fabrics and dyes, and I find a lot of the time that my background

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in painting and drawing is beginning to mingle with my interest in textile and surface design.

Many of my paintings have hand sewn and embroidered details mixed in with the paints and inks. And lastly, Photoshop. I love it and couldn’t work without it. It gives me the ability to create mockups of designs and products in a way that is less risky than just jumping in and trying out something new on expensive fabrics or pieces that I have already invested a lot of time in. It also helps me begin to see my work not only as fine art, but also as designs that can be used on a number of products. I really enjoy experimenting with the notion of fine art vs. functional design.

HS: What is the next big step for The Patternbase?

AK: As mentioned before, our next big step involves a production space and gallery/boutique hybrid. This next step involves raising money, contacting artists we want to represent, collecting vintage textiles and clothing, and finding a suitable space. The space is always the hard part. We are currently at the beginning phases of this and are learning so much as we go. The gallery is our biggest dream, and the most fitting manifestation of The Patternbase. It will also span into our website as well. We’ve been redesigning the site since the beginning of the year, and this will continue as we move forward. If you check often, little tweaks are always made!

We will soon expand our product listings and are currently working with a few amazing models for new photographs of our vintage and digitally printed items.

KO: We have just recently received a Propeller Fund Grant, which we will be using to open a boutique gallery space in Chicago in Spring 2015. Establishing a home base in Chicago as The Patternbase will allow us to develop our virtual presence into a physical presence, in which we can expand our reach and build relationships through hands-on collaborations and interactions with textile designers, fashion designers, and fiber artists from the Chicago community.

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In Spring/Summer 2015, we will establish a well-curated, versatile boutique gallery space, in which artists and designers who primarily work with patterns and textiles will be invited to exhibit work and offer textile and fiber art related workshops. We believe that establishing a physical presence for The Patternbase will allow us the opportunity to strengthen Chicago’s textile and fiber art community by providing a space in which emerging and mid-career artists and designers can access the educational resources, artistic support, and exposure needed to foster creative growth within the industry.

Establishing a physical location will also fortify our involvement in the local artist community, and will allow us to create a more in depth dialogue between the local and international textile design communities. Additionally, it will provide us with a professional space where we can meet with clients and buyers, allowing us to further expand our reach locally and promote the work of our exhibiting artists.

The gallery will feature artists who are influenced by textile design or have an aesthetic that is patterned, printed, or made of textiles and/or fiber. The space will challenge traditional models of the boundaries set between fashion retail and gallery, and allow these two venues to merge into one, where fiber art and textiles can thrive. We believe the creation of relationships in this unique space is important to the creation of an even more vibrant textile design, fiber, and pattern inspired community.

This boutique gallery will offer a unique environment for textile designers and artists to show their work that encourages collaboration between fine art and design.

We plan to use the Propeller Grant Funds to acquire a location for the gallery space for three months to six months, depending on the location of the space and the cost of rent. This will allow us to test the market and assess whether The Patternbase can operate a self-sustaining gallery and event space outside of the digital realm.

Support for this project was provided by The Propeller Fund, a joint administrated grant from Threewalls and Gallery 400 at The University of Illinois at Chicago.

HS. Is there anything else you would like the readers of Halfstack Magazine to know about The Patternbase?

AK: I am going to teach a course on digital textiles at Lillstreet Arts Center in the spring.

We will work half in the studio as we design our prints and then move into the digital studio where I will show the students how to edit

their designs to work for repeat. I’ve had a few people talk to me about how difficult it is to make repeat patterns, so this course will help give direction to students on how to make the patterns, but also how certain patterns fit certain products. Students will have a finished item of their choice at the end of the course! If you sign up before March 16 and pay in full, you’ll get a discount. It will run from April 9 – June 10.

Here’s the link: http://lillstreet.com/ class/10411

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Stand Out & Live Elevated Written by: Olivia Lemley Layout by: Annabel Carrillo Photography by: Andrea Pabon Shot on location at: Jesse’s Barbershop Designs by: PRSVR Modeled by: Andre Thompson Art Direction by: Jennifer Veguilla-Lezan

Passion Resilience Sacrifice Values Respect 120

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ith a brand name chosen to tell the story of their journey, Brandon and Margret Williamson team up take on the fashion world. Persévérer, commonly known as PRSVR, is a fairly new store that held it’s grand opening in 2012.

PRSVR is a Chicago born, elevated lifestyle brand catering to those who live and work in the city. Bringing you fashion and comfort, the Williamson’s create functional clothing and accessories to take you from place to place.

Life can get crazy, so get a reliable and stylish wardrobe by PRSVR to make it though hectic times. To make life even easier, this brand offers the same luxurious quality at lower prices.

This power couple met and started their company within 6 months. Brandon Williamson’s vision was to start his own sneaker line that boost confidence yet does not cleaning out bank accounts. He furthered his knowledge of the shoe making process as he traveled through Italy and China to discover secrets behind pricing and quality. At the time, Margret worked in the corporation world but was miserable and quickly became eager to launch the brand Brandon and she dreamed about.

PRSVR appeals to the young, fly, urban socialites. The Williamson’s take pride in their hot celebrity clients. The stylist of Teyana Taylor, a G.O.O.D. Music recording artist, tracked down PRSVR for an outfit for her to rock at the 2013 NBA All Star game in Texas. Nikki Minaj was also falunting her PRSVR pants with a mirror selfie before attending the BET awards.

In addition to Teyana Taylor and Nikki Minaj, a dress by PRSVR has been worn by Adele on stage for a performance. This growing company

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is dedicated to make every piece worth it; this is a responsibility they ensure to prioritize.

Prior to launching the company, Brandon Williamson often received compliments when sporting his signature look: a leather jacket, sneakers and a duffle bag he designed himself.

These compliments were from random men and–let’s be honest–men aren’t known to dish out compliments to other men. That was when it became clear, to both Brandon and Margret, that this was something worth while.

Like any dedicated brand, PRSVR set new goals for this year. 2015 is their “year of collaboration.” This goal has been set to connect with like-minded designers and other brands to work together towards great opportunities. PRSVR is also shooting to reach their products out to more people by getting their stock in department stores such as Bloomingdales. Though they have numerous

stores across the country, PRSVR is planning to expand further out of Chicago to strengthen the company and continue the spread of their brand. The release of B2, a children’s line, is yet another plan for this next year.

It is true in this couple’s hearts that they are a part of a divine plan to create a platform with the work they are doing. “Shooting the shot” is the Williamson’s motto. They strive to take the opportunities they can and do whatever they need to make it work.

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Brandon Williamson, being the main designer, has a heavy influence on the direction of fashion.

PRSVR’s “Fundamentals” collection consists of everyday clothing items that are essential for the perfect ensemble. These are innovative and experimental items that may run risks, like any great designers and stylists strive to do. This is the route one must take to branch out and create new styles and trends. Above clothing, footwear is the dominant category of the brand. Williamson’s belief that there was a void within the sneaker and accessory mart pushed him to start designing.

His original idea was to create a hybrid of shoe sorts that came fully equipped with the boldness of a wing tip or other hard bottom while still maintaining the comfort and ragged qualities of a sneaker.

Brandon Williamson’s love for footwear led him to make shoes be the base of PRSVR’s outfits. He creates clothing pieces to match perfectly to the corresponding pair of sneakers.These original ideas brought to the table are what makes PRSVR the influential brand it has become.

Even great writers hit blocks and struggle to find their next words, but the important part is in their recovery. Brandon Williamson finds himself running to music for inspiration when he is struggling. J. Dilla is his favorite artist to listen to when in need of an outside influence. In addition to music, real world experiences assist Brandon to brainstorm authentic ideas. It is important for designers to have a clear mind when working to reach their full potential.

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“If you never take the shot, you never know if you’d make or miss.”

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PersÊvÊrer, coming from the French origin, was chosen as the Williamson’s brand name to tell the story of their lives.

Its definition is to persist in an action, resolution, attitude, despite the difficulties.

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Spring may seem so far beneath the snow, but it’s coming! Find powerful royal and navy blue pieces by PRSVR this upcoming season to compliment all the fun times of spring. Though it brightens up in the post-winter months, don’t be digging out your shorts just yet! The chilly weather calls for leather jackets by PRSVR. These are all the rave due to the leather being specialty made for each style. To venture off from the oversized winter sweaters, PRSVR also has slim silhouettes on deck for the spring collection. Find great styles that are sure to make your wardrobe a one-of-a-kind!

Persévérer, coming from the French origin, was chosen as the Williamson’s brand name to tell the story of their lives. Its definition is to persist in an action, resolution, attitude, despite the difficulties. Beginning as an entrepreneur is not always sunshine and rainbows– it requires hard work and dedication to put forth into your company and the goals set for it. Brandon and Margret Williamson have done just that and believe having perseverance has been a key asset to their success.

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W T *An Examination of Star’s Modas* THE ACADEMY AWARDS 2015 EDITION By: Stella Quimby Layout By: Annabel Carrillo

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First Victim (A.K.A Star): Orange is the New Black’s Matt MCGorry Maybe this guard (the character he plays who sadly dresses better in Netflix’s Orange is the New Black) should have joined the criminals and wore orange?

Black is a classic color, slimming and flattering on all….except for him. The texture his suit jacket is made of not only makes him look larger, (usually actors look slimmer in person) but he looks frumpy and blind (can’t he see himself?). He honestly should have taken of the jacket and saved us all that horrible vision of a suit jacket.

Photo courtesy of Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

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2nd Star: Ice Queen….

Lady Gaga Move over Elsa, this Ice Queen apparently is making snowflakes all over the media.

Many are in love with Lady Gaga’s gown for this year’s Academy Awards, but here at Halfstack, we know good taste and this doesn’t represent it. Not only does she really look like a giant snowflake, (we do admire her dedication to winter) but the red gloves give the impression of a sanitation worker. Is she going to clean port-a-potties? Or is she a dominatrix snowflake style? She definitely has kept us wondering.

Photo courtesy of Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

3rd Star: The Preggo; Kiera Knightley Being preggo with your first child is NO excuse to wear a “dress” with marker all over it! Hey, even I (who gained over 100 lbs. with my first child) would have rocked a better moomoo. I know she is tired, but how can she walk the red carpet wearing a night gown with occasional old woman flowers and marker all over it? All she is missing is her sleeping bag, her man rubbing her feet and some ice cream to make it a complete night. We do give her kuddos for showing off her growing bosom, yey welcome to womanhood!

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Photo courtesy of Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

4th Star: People’s “most beautiful” woman (seriously)….

Gwyneth Paltrow For someone such as Gwyneth, who selfdescribes herself as a Martha Stewart, even Stewart had a better dress…in jail.

When someone as prissy and full of herself as Gwyneth is, I would expect something that looks more expensive than this pink polyester glove thing from Walmart. Honey, a giant flower (?) on your arm isn’t going to make it look more expensive. Why don’t you go and hire yourself a stylist and continue blogging (?) about how everyday women MUST wear $100 white t-shirts.

Photo courtesy of Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Last but not Least: Modern Day John Lennon wannabe…Jared Leto

Photo courtesy of Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Aren’t men supposed to get better with age? Jared Leto totally contradicts that idea. Since the days of My So Called Life, when Leto actually made us swoon, now he looks like he makes us faint, from his smell. Sorry to end this WTF with this pic, but it is one to visit our nightmares. First, the color is hideous, second the crotch of the pants is midway to his knees. Is he really trying to show us that his crotch can reach his knees? Or is he trying to compensate for something he doesn’t have?

Can someone please throw this has-been back under the bridge where he belongs?

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FULTON STREET COLLECTIVE WHERE ART AND COMMUNITY COLLIDE

WRITTEN BY: PEARL SHIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DWIGHT BEJEC Within the vast city of Chicago is a hidden treasure called the Fulton Street Collective. The collective, which operates as a sort of gallery space, is a building containing space where original artwork and other creative works of local artists can be displayed. After over a decade of operation, the Fulton Street Collective continues to provide artists with a place to display their work and to connect with the community.

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In the past, the Fulton Street Collective has hosted events such as open mics, gallery shows, dance performances, and music performances in various genres. These kinds of exciting events are something that everyone can look forward to experiencing when visiting the FSC. The Fulton Street Collective is available for space rental as well. The establishment, which is over 3,000 square feet in size, has space that can be used for many occasions.

Some events that people can rent out space for at the FSC for include meetings, parties, receptions, film screenings, exhibitions, workshops and more.

The FSC has a bountiful selection of different options that are available for people who wish to rent out spaces for their events. Some of the spaces include a large 2,000 square feet art gallery, additional event spaces on the third floor, a lounge, and 26 different studio spaces (called Studios A-Z) that’s spanned across second and third floors. Some amenities that the FSC offers include a DJ booth, a PA system, track lighting with dimmers that have adjustable settings, and a spacious entrance area. Anyone that is planning on hosting an event, regardless of what kind,

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The Fulton Street Collective (FSC) is an independent establishment that was founded back in 2002. This space is an idea that was brought to life by the 135 singer-songwriters Ana Fermin and Joe.

can rest assured that they will be provided with a beautiful, spacious, and quality place.

Although the Fulton Street Collective is usually bustling with events, they will always have space available for artists who are looking to host an event. The mission of the Fulton Street Collective is to dedicate themselves to the development of artists and the artistic community. They wish to provide a nice and accessible space for artists to showcase their work while also networking and making connections with others in the business. For over a decade, the Fulton Street Collective has provided just that, and there is no doubt that they will continue to do so in the years to come.

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“FSC offers include a DJ booth, a PA system with dimmers that has adjustable settings, entrance area�

m, track lighting and a spacious

“spaces include a large 2,000 square feet art gallery, additional event spaces on the third floor, a lounge, and 26 different studio spaces�

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Photography by: Perry Fish 138

Jason Kovick Designs Written by: Perry Fish Layout by: Annabel Carrillo

A creative spirit is something to be celebrated. It cannot be learned, duplicated, or harbored. It is a gift that should be treasured. Like a craft, it is perfected overtime.

Jason Kovick is the embodiment of a creative spirit. Based in Chicago, IL, Kovick lives his passion of a career as an independent interior designer. Just this past year, he decided to pursue this dream head on and start his own company, J Kovick Designs.

Since then, Kovick has grown his clientele and portfolio through several private home projects, primarily on the North Side of Chicago. His own home, located in Andersonville, continues to be an ever-evolving project. Decorated in his signature of a balance between modern and vintage, the space is a delightful curation. Accents of metallic skulls, rehabbed furniture and eccentric art create the perfect blend of styles of his fiancÊ’, hairstylist, Joey McKernan, and himself.

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No matter the industry, the path of an entrepreneur is never an easy one. Kovick shared with us the struggles he faces as an independent designer, what inspires him and what makes it all worth it.

Halfstack: How did you first get interested in interior design?

Jason Kovick: I first started my interest when I remodeled my home in Michigan myself. It was an interesting process. You don’t realize how many decisions need to made until you are in that situation. After that, I started to help friends with their homes.

HS: How would you describe your own personal design style?

JK: Eclectic. I love to use old and new, traditional and contemporary in a space. It’s that mix that makes a room special.

HS: What is it like working as an independent designer?

JK: Both rewarding and stressful. There are a lot of things you need to take into consideration being independent. Like not working for a large company to fall back on. However, the rewards are great. Even with all the stress, seeing the space come together and having your clients eyes light up when they see it for the first time... totally worth it!!!

HS: What are some things that inspire you as a designer?

JK: Inspiration can come from so many places.

Art, a single item, a view, the home as a whole, a feeling, textures, colors and just listening to a person describe their dream space.

HS: What are some of your favorite places to find pieces for a design project?

JK: I am one to repurpose furniture. I love to find an old beat up piece from an antique shop or flea market and turn it into something amazing. Many times it’s all about the find.

Seeking out that perfect piece. That one item that takes a room to another level.

HS: What is your favorite part about working as an interior designer?

JK: It would be that moment when a room is complete. After working with a client, fnding what they would like as their dream space, and seeing the end result. Making the client’s and mine vision a reality.

HS: Where do you hope to see your business go from here?

JK: The biggest hope is to become a name that everyone will recognize. To do what I love, continue to grow, and create a brand name for myself.

HS: What is the biggest struggle and best reward you have faced as a business owner?

JK: The biggest struggle is the start up. It kind of throws you when you realize how much actually needs to be done in the beginning.

After that, it is getting the business. For a designer, the majority of our new clients come from referrals. The reward, after all the hard work, the long hours getting everything in place, getting your name out there, is at the end of the day thinking, ‘I›m doing this. I›m doing what I love!’

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CIRCA MODERN: The Journey from Past to Present On a storefront lined busy street

in West Town resides an intriguing, beautifully curated and impeccably designed shop.

Upon entering Circa Modern it’s almost as if you are taken back in time to an era of beautiful taste, understated elegance and yet it all has a modern twist that is still relevant to current tastes.

Circa Modern is a Chicago based retailer that specializes in mid century modern and Danish modern furniture. The term mid century modern is becoming ever more present in the vocabulary of the zeitgeist. There is this renewed and fresh interest in the era by people from all walks of life that have an affinity for creative yet functional design. Ever wonder why Mad Men was such a sweeping success? Mid Century Modern was and still is a hugely influential period of design history. It is known for giving us some of the most recognizable classics of the 20th century.

Right here in America, Ray and Charles Eames created their classic DSR chair with a smooth scooped seat made out of fiberglass and a delicate wire base. This very chair that was created in the 50s is a coveted item in the homes of design lovers in 2015. The original intention for the design was for it to be placed in the International Competition for Low-Cost Furniture design and was in reaction to the urgent need for low cost housing and furnishing designs post war. The idea was to get the most of the best to the greatest number of people for the least. These hard times called for innovative use of minimal materials.

WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER M. VEGUILLA-LEZAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: AIMEE JEANE ELIZABETH

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SHOT ON LOCATION AT: CIRCA MODERN

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This idea of beautiful and functional design was an important ethos within this time period that still rings true today, but for different reasons. Today, the market sees a need for conscious consumerism that keeps in mind the impact of our consumption on the world.

Buying vintage, thrifting and repurposing the old into new are all common ideas that can lower our consumer carbon footprint. Whereas, in the past, people were trying to make the best with what they had post war. The production of the Eames chairs in fiberglass was discontinued and eventually replaced with polypropylene due to it being a more environmentally friendly material.

Then there was also the beauty. People are searching out Eames, Noguchi and Nelson because of the nostalgia and style associated with the mid century modern time period.

Clean lines and timeless appeal make the movement so enticing. Every day people are seeing the value and beauty in the era, but that wasn’t always the case. At one point, only people in the know had a keen understanding of the true value in the design and furniture that came from the mid century modern time period. This is where Jared and Don got their start.

The shop and brand: Circa Modern, was masterminded

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by Jared Peterson and Don Schmaltz, two Chicago locals who have an eye for vintage furniture and an innate business sense learned through the school of hard knocks. The two are no strangers to the interior, furniture and creative industries. Jared started as an architect and Don went to The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and has a degree in fine art. Each brings years of hands on experience, interesting skills and a creative eye to their brand: Circa Modern.

Don opened an Art Gallery during his early twenties while still in school. It was a huge undertaking that required a lot of sacrifice and hard work. It wasn’t easy and as is always the case with new business startups, money was tight.

In order to help supplement this venture and school, Don was selling oddities, vintage and antique furniture to local dealers and Ebay buyers on the side. It was experiences such as these that truly helped develop his eye and his skill to find a hidden treasure among what other people might see as a pile of junk.

In order to save money and help put his now wife: Laura Davis through grad school, he closed down the gallery, took on a job at an auction house and through it all kept learning about the vintage wares he

was drawn to. He had a great eye for art and for furniture and eventually his picking outranked the business he was doing at his regular “day job”. Davis also played a huge supporting role throughout the years. Her extensive knowledge in art history helped Don in learning more about the historical relevance and value behind the wares he was selling. They worked together to build an immense reference library that has helped them gain a deeper understanding of their product.

Don runs Circa Modern alongside business partner and creative confidante: Jared Peterson. Jared, much like Don, has extensive experience re-selling vintage wares. Although he started in architecture, Jared came from a family who knew the business of antique dealing. Jared’s parents seemed to be some of the biggest influences when it came to his current career. As a family of antique dealers, Jared was around the industry at a really young age. The experience in his skill and eye runs deep.

Jared recalls his younger days in Milwaukee and “wanting to work at the local goodwill to get first dibs on the items that came through.” He was lucky that he had an array of friends who worked at Goodwill and would always let him know when something cool came

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Meet the owners:

PHOTOGRAPHY ON THIS PAGE COURTESY: DWIGHT BEJEC

Jared Peterson

Don Schmaltz

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Circa Modern is a Chicago based retailer that specializes in mid century modern and Danish modern furniture.

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through the dock. Always the collector, it isn’t a surprise that Jared would find refuge in antiques. His ability to fix up old items and resell them helped him through hard times when he lost his job as an architect.

Nothing ever goes according to plan and the beauty of the tenacity behind these two men is their ability to move along with the ebb and flow of life. After the firm he worked at dissolved in Milwaukee, Jared took a leap of faith and made his way to Chicago. He continued to support himself through reselling and eventually launched a blog called Circa – he and Don connected and joined forces to become what is now known as Circa Modern. Jared credits Don for being the catalyst to turn what he considered a side gig into meaningful work. As their connection grew, they worked together more frequently and eventually made the full commitment to pursue Circa Modern once they found the space for the store that they are now in.

Don has this innate business sensibility that has developed over the years through his creative entrepreneurial experiences. He grew up in a suburb of Detroit amidst a family of cops. His choice of schooling and career wasn’t necessarily what his family had in mind,

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but over the years he has made it work and made them proud. When asked about the people who influenced his current career path, Don mentioned The Glancy Family. Michael Glancy is a wellknown glass blower and his brother was Don’s neighbor for many years. They were the quintessential creative family and Don’s eyes were opened to the beauty of mid century modern stylings and the artistic lifestyle beyond his typical suburban upbringing.

These experiences had a profound effect on the way he viewed the world around him and sparked his aspirations to pursue a creative field. While Don was supporting the gallery through his side gig re-selling vintage, many of the antique dealers he came across influenced him as well. Their interest in Don’s picks truly reaffirmed his eye and that he had a nicely curated collection.

Each opportunity he pursued added to the knowledge he needed in order to bring him to where he is now as a vintage dealer and shop owner alongside Jared.

Don and Jared’s industry of choice is chock full of competition. Yet, as a team, they are focusing on growing their business and growing creatively rather than competing with the many other brands out there.

They are working hard to bring their customer the “Circa Modern” lifestyle at an accessible price point. They keep their customer in mind and always try to educate those who are interested coming through the store in order to help them better appreciate the history behind the products.

As a brand, they focus on offering an interesting range of products within their specialization of mid century modern, Swiss, Dutch, Danish and Italian wares. Although Jared and Don each have their own unique tastes, that is what adds interest to their collection. Being open to including obscure designers in their assortment differentiates them from what is typically found in the market. They don’t always know what they will find when they go on the hunt for new inventory, but that is all part of the fun in what they do.

Whether they are traveling to estates sales all over the US, picking from vintage markets or abandoned buildings, their eyes have to be looking for a gem in the rough.

Taking a passion project and turning it into a career is no easy task, but this duo is continually pushing to find a balance between being business owners and creatives.

When it comes to running the business, overall Don and Jar-

ed have been really successful with their endeavors, but that didn’t come without hard work and sacrifice. As business owners, they are always challenging themselves to learn more. Although their initial job is curating their collection, they also have to balance the books, market and grow the business.

They also have to know when to take those calculated risks that can lead to big payoffs.

These opportunities are few and far between, but when approached with the correct mindset, they can help business grow tremendously. Yet, Don cautions that, “dealers can get caught up in a vicious cycle of competitiveness, constantly chasing the next sale not wanting to miss out”.

Rather than get caught up in the hype, the duo is trying to remain humble and appreciate the success they’ve acquired.

In this day and age of social media and over sharing, this can be hard, but there are always opportunities to explore. Jared and Don recently expanded into a new studio space. Jared explains that it is things like their new space, their passion behind what they do and being able to run a creative business that drive their ambition.

When Halfstack asked the two what kind of advice they would

give their 18 year-old selves, Jared explains that his current life was never a vision of his at that point. He traveled down a crazy road of different jobs and exploration that eventually led him to where his today. He explains, “People should be open to whatever the universe leads them to.” Often times we get so caught up in what we have planned that we become narrow minded about the opportunities that are presented to us. Yet, it is important to be flexible and aware in order to be led to our true purpose.

Don explains that his biggest advice would be, “to stop worrying about pleasing everybody and like what you’re doing”. The reality that so many young people face when it comes to pursuing their future is that they have a heavy burden of expectation placed on their shoulders. It is so important to explore and be true to yourself. Rather than doing what everyone expects, Don explains, “don’t just take that job you know you’re not going to like just for the money, rather don’t be afraid to create and go after opportunities that you are passionate about.” Most importantly Don highlights that young people, “need to figure out what they want to do and stop trying to live up to someone else’s expectations. Create your own way and in the long term it will be worth it.”

To learn more about Circa Modern visit them online at: www.circamodern.com

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createBALANCE Written by: Brittany Lohmann

INTRODUCTION You may have seen them in the aisles at the grocery store, at your local health food store, or even on the shelves at the airport. thinkThin protein bars and products are appearing everywhere. Packed with protein and absent of all artificial sugars and preservatives, thinkThin bars were designed to help consumers fuel their body with food for whatever life events may come their way, food that is not only convenient but also good for you.

However, while many consumers may overlook the product packaging in order to get to the goodness inside, were they to look a bit further they would soon discover more information than simple caloric details and nutrition facts. They would begin to understand Lizanne Falsetto’s, founder and creator of thinkThin, philosophy behind the bar to live a balanced life.

While Falsetto’s protein bar provides some fuel in this venture, she has taken a step beyond thinkThin and begun building a platform for women to create balance between life, work, and the home through nutrition and wellness. It

Layout by: Annabel Carrillo

was a project that began with thinkThin and has expanded into a media outlet that all women can count on.

Who thinkThin is and how the products came to be. thinkThin products were developed by Lizanne Falsetto, a former model, whose busy lifestyle made it difficult to find time in the kitchen.

Between airports, hotels, and photo shoots, Falsetto recognized a need for a food product that was full of protein with none of the added sugars that are prevalent in a number of the leading protein bar brands. While there were always plenty of water and snack foods available, the majority of the time these foods did not provide the necessary nutrients to sustain energy levels.

As a result, when time allowed, she headed into the kitchen. On her own time, she began creating protein bars for herself to bring with her on her long days at work. Little did she know that others were watching and would eventually begin requesting bars for themselves. It was from there that thinkThin products were born.

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The philosophy behind the brand While the brand grew organically, starting from Falsetto’s kitchen and then eventually making its way onto grocery aisle shelves throughout the country, it was based on the notion that all people should eat food that is good for you. thinkThin bars and products were developed to help fuel everyday life. They were designed with the idea in mind to help all, especially women, find a balance between work, family, and their own personal time by providing proper nutrition without spending a significant time in the kitchen. thinkThin Products The end result is a product line filled with accessible food items that are filled with protein and are sugar free. The brand has expanded from its small selection of protein bars to over six different variations in categories, including “Lean Protein & Fiber”, “High Protein”, “High Protein & Fiber”, “Protein Nut Bars”, and “Crunch Mixed Nut Bars”. All with a wide variety of flavors to choose from, such as Dark Chocolate Salted Carmel, White Chocolate, Chunky Peanut Butter, and many more. In addition, the thinkThin company has recently expanded the brand to include oatmeal products as well. Thus, providing consumers with a breakfast option that has the protein, sugar-free, and non-GMO ingredients that comes standard with the the thinkThin line.

While the thinkThin philosophy emphasizes the importance of complete nutrition as a part of a work-life balance, the founder, Lizanne Falsetto is now taking her personal philosophy regarding balance, health, and nutrition to a new level by stepping out in front of the brand with her website: Modern Thinking and radio show: Female Rockstar Entrepreneurs.

Modern Thinking Falsetto’s website Modern Thinking promotes and plays off of the thinkThin product line by encouraging individuals, particularly women, to have purpose and be innovative when it comes to business, the home, and wellness. Modern Thinking provides articles, radio podcasts, recipes, and various tips and tricks for leading a full and more balanced life.

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Examples of such material include, blogs posts such as, “4 Incredibly Simple Ways to Become More Innovative” located in her Business & Purpose section; articles on “Tips for Entertaining Over Thanksgiving” in Home & Lifestyle; “How Cooking can Change Your Life” in Wellness & Vitality; plus a number of recipes, ranging from snacks to main courses to make-ahead meals and desserts.

Female Rockstar Entrepreneurs While assisting women to find a balance between their busy work and personal lives, she also wants to inspire and provide a platform for female entrepreneurs to express themselves and work towards even greater achievements. Falsetto’s talk radio show, Female Rockstar Entrepreneurs, provides such a stage with interviews from leading female CEOs in a variety of disciplines.

Such disciplines extend beyond her own health and wellness field (although she provides interviews with women who have made a tremendous impact in this field as well) to include women whose hard work and dedication has made a powerful impact in the areas of technology, service and hospitality, charity, and the general workforce.

On her website, there is an archive of all her past interviews from these powerful women including: Marcie Polier Swartz, President of the Barrington Place Group as well as the founder and CEO of Entertainment Date, Inc., which was “the first company to bring data analytics to Hollywood on a 24/7 reel time basis” ; Gayle Rosenthal, founder of Gayle’s Sweet’N’Sassy Foods, who is well known for her BBQ sauce that is featured at restaurants such as California Pizza Kitchen and TGIFridays as well as distributed in grocery stores, restaurants, and school districts as a result of its healthy profile; Leana Greene, CEO of kidsinthehouse.com, which is a parenting video library; as well many other celebrated women in the business world.

CONCLUSION Falsetto’s personal philosophy is evident throughout her work. Life is not so much about finding balance, but rather about creating it. For Falsetto creating balance began with nutrition and wellness. The result was thinkThin bars, a product designed, particularly for the busy female, who

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can feel good about the food she eats without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. However, her mission to empower women through health and wellness has extended far beyond her protein bars. The outcome is in her own personal brand with her website Modern Thinking and her radio show, Female Rockstar Entrepreneurs.

Both tools demonstrate how women can create a more balanced life by being healthy, innovative, and daring - all while doing it with a touch of class. The end result is a new way for women to approach life and a new personal philosophy to createBalance.

there. These little blue boys are packed with antioxidants, phytochemicals, potassium, Vitamin C, and other anti-inflammatory components to help nourish the body and fight off diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

What all of these foods have in common is they have a high antioxidant count, which help prevent cell damage and degenerative diseases, including cancers, stroke, heart disease, and early aging.

These foods also often contain a phytochemicals that not only provide plants with color, flavor, and protect them from outside intruders but also may safeguard the human body against other chronic diseases once they are eaten (Johnson & Williamson, 2003, p. 1).

phosphorus, as well as zinc and iron to prevent against cancer, detoxify the body, reduce cholesterol, aid digestion, and promote heart and eye health.

Whether they are fresh or frozen, incorporate these berries into smoothies, on top of yogurt or oatmeal, on salads, as a part of fruit salad, or simply eat them alone to get more into your daily allowance.

Oranges. The orange packs more punch than just Vitamin C. This citrus fruit also contains anti-inflammatory components as well as other 8 Super foods you need in your life vitamins and minerals that help promote clear We hear about them on health segments in talk skin, boost the immune system, keep your heart shows, read about them in the magazines, and health, and lower blood glucose levels. see them (sometimes unknowingly) in the aisles at the grocery store – super foods. While the term The orange is best eaten on its own. Since it is a “super food” does not have a formal definition, it seasonal fruit, choose from a variety of oranges is often used interchangeably with the definition of during the winter months where it will be at its “functional foods”. A functional food is one “that freshest. [has] health promoting benefits and/or disease- Broccoli. Your mother may have fought with preventing properties over and above nutritional you to eat your broccoli growing up and there value” (Lunn, 2006, p. 171). Common examples is a good reason why. Aside from being rich in of super foods include salmon, kale, oats, and antioxidants, including lutein and sulforaphane, blueberries – just to name a few. these green stalks include magnesium,

While sources vary on how many super foods are readily available and which ones are actually the “best”, there were some foods that were more generally agreed upon than others. To learn more about these foods and how to include them into your diet, read below: What foods are there and why are they good for you?

Blueberries. The blueberry was probably the most commonly named super food out

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Whether steamed, roasted, sautéed, you can easily incorporate broccoli into your diet as a side dish or as a part of a main course. Pair broccoli with other vegetables in a medley or put it on its own.

Spinach. It is no lie that spinach is good for you. These green leaves contain dietary potassium and are a good source of iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin K, fiber, phosphorus, and thiamine. Eating more spinach can assist with diabetes management, lower your blood pressure, aid in bone health and promote healthy skin and hair.

Many steam or sauté spinach as a side dish; however, you can also incorporate more spinach into your diet by including it as a part of a salad,

an omelet, or including it as a part in main dishes, Dark Chocolate. You heard right - dark such as pasta, meatballs, and stuffed chicken chocolate is also considered a super food.

However, when referring to this type of chocolate breasts. we are not talking about the sugary, refined Salmon. Salmon is the super food from the chocolates you often find in the candy aisle. sea. By eating 2 to 3 servings per week, it can Dark chocolate, 70% or higher, is loaded with help a number of different ailments, including antioxidants and flavonoids thanks to the cacao lowering cholesterol, ease arthritis pain, as well bean. This little bean’s components can help as potentially ward off memory loss, Alzheimers, improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. and chances of developing heart disease. It As mentioned above, when choosing a dark contains a high amount of Omega-3s, which chocolate opt for 70% or higher cocoa content. help fight inflammation in the body as well as Also, be sure to eat it in moderation. (Luckily balance out Omega-6s. The food is also high in though, a little dark chocolate goes a long way as monosaturated fat. it is more filling than its milk or white counterparts!)

Although good seafood can be difficult to come To incorporate more dark chocolate into your diet, by in the Midwest, eating more fish has proven integrate dark chocolate bits into baked goods, health benefits. Incorporate fresh, wild caught mix it in with nuts and dried fruits as a part of trail fish, particularly Salmon, into your diet as a part of mix, or simply enjoy it on its own. main dishes. The fish can be baked, fried, made While there are a number of other popular “super into meatballs, cakes, and even burgers. foods” out there, these 8 were chosen because Turkey. This bird should make its way into your of their accessibility and their prevalence among diet more than just during the holidays. Aside other food lists. Plus, aside from the inclusion from being high in protein, which helps keep of dark chocolate, all of these foods are nonyou fuller longer and helps maintain lean muscle processed. Opting for these organic, whole mass. Turkey contains high numbers of Vitamins foods while they are fresh and in season will help B-6 and B-12, Niacin, Choline, Selenium, and balance one’s diet as well as provide several Zinc. health benefits, especially when paired with other When choosing turkey, opt for fresh, lean, organic, wholesome foods. So eat well, eat fresh, and be and pasture-raised without antibiotics. Then super. eat it as a part of sandwiches, soups, burgers, http://www.livescience.com/45408-broccoli-nutrition.html meatballs, meatloaf – or stay traditional with a http://www.webmd.com/diet/superfoods-everyoneneeds?page=3 turkey breast.

Walnuts. If you are looking for a super food with a crunch, opt for walnuts. These nuts are high in Omega-3’s and monosaturated fat, which have been known to contain cancer-fighting properties, improve heart and brain health, as well as help control diabetes.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/272782.php http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/285736.php http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/ archive/2014/05/19/7-walnuts-benefits.aspx

You can, of course, always snack on a handful of nuts, but walnuts can also easily be added to other fares. Use crushed walnuts as a part of fruit and veggie salads, include chopped walnuts into baked goods, and feature walnuts in both main and side dishes as a garnish for an added crunch.

Just be careful of overeating as nuts are high in calories.

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Innovation & Experimentation in the Local Craft Beer Market Written by: Jennifer Veguilla-Lezan Photography by: Dwight Bejec Shot on location in Naperville, IL 162

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Standing out from the competition is something that many businesses work day and night to achieve. In a market like micro brewing where the options are vast and competition is fierce, just standing can be hard for newcomers and younger businesses. Yet, interestingly enough, that word competition doesn’t invoke a cutthroat experience among the microbreweries in Chicago. In fact, there is this interesting community of brewers that seem to support one another in their endeavors. There is this camaraderie seen among the microbreweries throughout the Chicagoland area and suburban communities that is refreshing and promising. This isn’t just in Chicago, it seems the industry as a whole is really open to newcomers who are bringing something new and different to the table.

Microbreweries like Solemn Oath Brewery in Naperville truly take heed in this idea. Run by brothers John and Joe Barley (yes, their last name really is Barley), the brothers focus on creating new and innovative recipes for their brew house. They don’t focus on what others are doing so much as they focus on what their customers like and what they can offer that is unique.

They are driven by a deep-rooted passion for Belgian-inspired and barrel-aged beers, but you can be sure to find some strange combinations that push the envelope like imperial pilsners, that might leave your tongue delightfully confused. The duo is working with an in–house team of top-

notch brewers who are open to experimentation.

Tim Marshall, their head brewer explains that as a brewery, they are “trying to make beers that are unique to this area” so that they are not putting out a beer that you’ll already see out in the local market. Their goal has been to move quickly through dozens and dozens of beers across a range of styles, create different, sometimes wacky and great tasting beers and then to bring back the best of them. They believe that more often than not, people like to try something new and they want to give them an exciting, change of pace type of experience, but still be able to bring back those old favorites.

The concept behind Solemn Oath was developed after John was out west visiting his brother Joe in San Diego. They had hosted a craft beer tasting party for friends and the seed of a business concept was planted.

John didn’t let the idea pass and quickly started cultivating it right on the plan trip home.

Working as a creative in the non-profit sector, he didn’t have all the experience needed initially to start a microbrewery, but he was willing to put himself out there to learn. He had no initial contacts in the industry, but he wasn’t afraid to ask questions.

He took the initiative to reach out to breweries he admired and the fact that they were open and willing to share tips, suggestions and even business plans with him highlights the industries acceptance of newcomers. He

was able to get the initial funding necessary to start within a year of his initial idea without the need of credit.

He started interviewing brewers and met Tim who was previously at Rock Bottom and this idea started developing into a reality.

When deciding on a location, the team looked for an untapped craft beer market and large population. They ended up calling the affluent suburb, Naperville, home. After tanks were ordered, hop contracts signed, an intense build out and working with the city council to craft a new liquor classification that would allow them to operate as both a production brewery and an on-site taproom, doors officially opened in April of 2012. It was during the crazy process of launching that John was able to get his brother Joe to move back to Chicago and be a part of his team.

Now, Joe runs all the outside endeavors creating relationships with bars, restaurants and potential retailers to carry SOB product while John oversees the in-house production and staff.

According to Canadean, in 2015, “the desire for craft offerings will become increasingly influential.

Consumers want their products to be produced and manufactured on a smaller scale to ensure quality and to feel a closer connection to the brands they choose.” Microbreweries like Sol-

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emn Oath are seeing exponential growth due to this changing direction in beer consumption. As a brand they are emphasizing the exclusivity of their product and the care with which it is being formulated. Their customers see this and they keep coming back for more. People are consciously choosing to step away from mass-produced items and push to support local microbreweries.

Customers can come into Solemn Oath’s taproom and enjoy a good beer and get a show at the same time. The set up of the brewery exposes the public to the nitty-gritty and raw details of what goes into the brewing.

They have the opportunity to watch, first hand, brewers like Lou, who graduated from the taproom, in action working their vessel systems and checking on fermentation. His skill, attention to detail and knowledge of the process was evident as he toured the Halfstack Team around the brewery.

When John and Tim first launched, Solemn Oath had a production capacity of just around 2,000 barrels (62,000 gallons) per year. In January of 2013, they completed an expansion bringing them up to a production capacity of 3,200 barrels (99,200 gallons). As of January 2015, when the Halfstack team visited, the brewery was yet again growing and in the mid stages of an additional expansion. John noted that they purposely stalled bringing on additional wholesale accounts over the past couple of quarters in

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order to better serve those that they had already and because they didn’t want to over promise and underserve based on their capacity limits. This expansion is being approached a bit differently than their last expansion in 2013. John highlighted that it was all about prepping their business to not only increase production, but do so in a much more scalable fashion as well as add in canning options.

The freshness and quality of their product is one of the many features that makes their brews so popular. Head brewer Tim explained that, “it can take anywhere from 3-4 weeks from grain to glass for ales, longer for lagers due to the aging process and recipe development can take anywhere from a month to a year depending on their needs and the process.” From a production perspective, they tend to make fewer lagers than ales due to the time constraints they cause, as the fermenting process is longer.

They offer between 2-4 lagers per year that are typically seasonal.

Tim is in charge of working on recipe development with John as well as overseeing the brew team. When it comes to building that brew team, Tim genuinely believes in growing from within.

He doesn’t just train people on how to brew, he acts as a mentor and guides those he sees with promising talent. The brewers typically start off in the taproom and after getting a taste of the product in that setting; they are better equipped to learn all the facets of brewing.

It’s definitely like a family affair at Solemn Oath. Yes, John and Joe and brothers, but all of the

people that they and Tim have brought in have become a part of the SOB family. When growing a small business, it is important to not only create a brand for the customer, but to also create a culture for the employees who are with the business day in and day out. The badass yet humble culture is evident in each of the people one can encounter at the brewery. Whether in the taproom or brewing, the team all lives, breathes and embodies the Solemn Oath culture.

It seems as if John put in a lot of thought into the type of people he wanted to help him build his brand. There is an air of creativity that fills the environment within the walls of Solemn Oath Brewery. The core operations team consists of the GM of Operations: Erin and Artist & Designer Jourdan. Then there is Matt, Paul, Tim, Lou and Mike doing the brewing. The rest of the team consists of 12 “taproom SOBs” who man the taproom, slanging beers, connecting with customers and acting as event support. This group of people are as passionate about the business as John and Joe and that spirit is clear the moment you walk into the taproom/brewery doors.

The interior of the brewery is covered with amazingly intricate murals completed by Jourdan, resident artist and designer.

Jourdan Gullett is also the mastermind behind all the labels you might be mesmerized by on the Solemn Oath beer bottles.

What started off as a freelance opportunity that Jourdan initially thought was a spam email, has evolved into a full time gig over the past 3 years for this Chicago

Artwork & Photography on this page: Jourdon Gullett, Solemn Oath Brewery

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based creative. Originally drawn to Jourdan’s illustration skills, John had reached out to Jourdan about label projects. He’s got a creative dream job of sorts. John offers him creative freedom and flexibility. He gives Jourdan some directives and lets him do his thing. That seems to be a constant theme in his leadership style. Hiring people he believes in, that he has chemistry with and giving them the space to do what they do best and pushing them enough to see them grow.

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All too often, people put in leadership positions fall victim to worrying about their employees knowing more than them. Yet, it is the greatest leaders who see the opportunity in hiring on people who know more than they do. John and Joe have brought on a staff of knowledgeable and top notch individuals who believe in what they are doing and are reaping the benefits of that. They have instilled a culture of pride in the work they are accomplishing, collaboration, creativity and appreciation for one another.

Their GM, Erin Lowder, is the driving force behind instilling that culture into new hires, sharing it with customers at events and making sure it is clear in all of their marketing efforts. In an industry dominated by men, she’s held herself to a high standard to make sure she is helping the brand see growth.

When it comes to growth, Solemn Oath Brewery has seen a lot of it over the last two years. They’ve expanded their production facility twice and have prepared to do more, create more and

The brothers focus on creating new and innovative recipes for their brew house.

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push the limits with their innovative brews. As a brand, they aren’t afraid of changing it up and reinventing themselves to keep their business fresh. That idea lends itself so well to the inspiration behind the branding and name: Solemn Oath.

John was inspired by the poem John Barley Corn when erecting his brand.

The poem is an old English Folksong that tells of the death, resurrection and drinking of the main character: John Barleycorn – barley embodied. These

experiences correspond to the ideology of the cycles seen in nature, the harvest and rebirth. After John Barleycorn’s death, he is resurrected as beer, bread and whisky. As a business, as a brand and as a team, Solemn Oath is paying homage to these ideals in all that they do. Whether it be in the slightly macabre illustrations and artwork Jourdan works on, the appreciation for the hustle that Erin and the staff have for the business or the constant experimentation and reinvention that Tim, John and Joe push for

from a business perspective; they continue to thrive, adapt and grow through challenges. John explains, “we’ve put so much into building this brand and culture; someday we plan to do so much more”.

To learn more about Solemn Oath Brewery visit them online at: www.solemnoathbrewery.com

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creating a legacy in portage park WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER VEGUILLA-LEZAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANDREA PABON SHOT ON LOCATION AT: JESSE’S BARBERSHOP

Independent businesses occupy a special place within our communities. In the day and age of big box retailers, major corporations and franchises, the mom and pop shops have become a rarity. Yet, there has been a revolution of sorts occurring in the neighborhoods of Chicago. People near and far are beginning to reminisce and appreciate the service that old school shops and independent businesses offered. People are taking the direction of our culture into their own hands and are launching business that are taking a stand against the fast culture that has been created. Instead of being a face among millions, people are looking for a place where everyone knows their name.

Barbershop culture and businesses like Jesse’s Barbershop prides itself on being the very ideal of personal service. Located in historical Portage Park, the shop is more than just a place to get a haircut. Jesse Barrera, the man behind Jesse’s Barbershop, set out a little over a year ago, after working in the industry for 8 years, to open a shop that brought back the old school class of the 30’s and 40’s barbershops. A place where men discussed ideas, experienced mental and cultural growth in a welcoming environment all while getting a fresh cut and close shave.

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Jesse got his start 10 years ago and explains that he started cutting hair because “he liked working with his hands, but didn’t want to be cold, and could never sit behind a desk or cubicle”. Working in a barbershop was the perfect culmination of his skills and what he enjoyed. He graduated from Success Barber College and worked under a wellknown shop in Chicago for 6 years. It was during this time that he was able to experience all facets of being a barber. He didn’t just cut, but was able to see how the business was run and managed.

This experience planted the seed of entrepreneurship into his mind early on.

Opening a business in Chicago is no small task.

The costs are high, competition is fierce and red tape runs amuck. Despite the hardships that come with the territory of starting a business, Jesse maintains that he controls what he can and what he can’t he leaves it to God. That mentality has helped Jesse to persevere. He has endured personal sacrifices for his vision. He has big goals for his shop, but is taking things in stages. Renovation costs can be high due to city code requirements, but within the year he’s been operating, Jesse has managed to transform his shop into a historically relevant retro escape. Inspired by

black and white films and the 30’s and 40’s rockabilly culture, the theme runs rampant through the shops branding and interiors.

His Type A personality ensures every detail rings true to this style. The effort he puts into his shop is astounding. Many of the furnishings are refurbished antiques that have a story all their own.

One chair in particular is one of his most prized possessions within the shop. The man who previously owned the chair had returned from war in Korea in 1955 and used the chair until 1970 in his basement shop on the Southside of Chicago in 173

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Hyde Park. The chair had remained untouched in his basement for years and endured flooding, yet the chair was still useable when a picker found it and notified Jesse. 6 months prior to the Halfstack visit in January 2015, Jesse went to work refinishing the chair with a friend who is a talented wood worker. Now, the chair has a new home in Jesse’s Barbershop. Jesse is creating a legacy for his kids and future grandkids with his shop and he wants to leave behind something he is proud of.

What some people may see and mundane, minor details, Jesse sees as important aspects to the environment he is trying to create in his shop.

That environment sets the tone for his clients. You won’t find some half naked chick hanging by the door or loud banging music emanating from the shop. Instead you’re greeted with the sounds of a big band rolling off a record player and a traditional red, white and blue barber pole signifying serious business goes down in this joint. Shops like Jesse’s Barbershop are bringing back the heart and soul to a craft that long ago was replaced with trendy shops and loud personalities.

Jesse runs his shop alongside his trusty sidekick, Rhett. The two bring years of industry experience to their little shop around the corner. Their personalities and skill are shown in the work that jumps off their chairs after each appointment. Men, who come in, get more than a trim. They are styled with classic cuts that leave them with an air of confidence. Styles like the faded pompadour, the flat top and the classic taper are becoming more and more popular. It’s the guys like Jesse and Rhett who can pull these looks off properly and without a hitch all the while having a conversation about the latest argument with the wife or newest job promotion.

When we asked Jesse what kind of advice he would give his 18-year old self, he stopped for a moment to think. His response surprised us.

Jesse explained that while his dream has been to own his own shop, he wouldn’t suggest freshly graduated barbers go out and open up a shop.

“There are so many shops out there already. The competition is fierce. You need to build a clientele and learn. Barber school teaches you how to pass a test, it doesn’t teach you how to cut hair,” he said. “You learn that through experience and you

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“

Don’t burn bridges because you never know when you may have to cross it again

”

can experience that best as an apprentice. Work for someone else first, find a mentor, learn from them and build that relationship.”

Jesse explains new comers need to pay their dues and, most importantly, always remember to be nice.

“Don’t burn bridges because you never know when you may have to cross it again,” he says.

Some of Jesse’s biggest supporters were people who he worked for in the past. He’s definitely paid his dues and that is shown in the immense support he has received from his community and from his clientele that have followed him on this new journey.

Learn more about Jesse’s Barbershop online: www.jessesbarbershopchicago.com

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TORY JOHNSON’S WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE AND HER NEW BOOK, THE SHIFT Written by: Stella Estrella-Quimby Layout by: Annabel Carrillo

Tory Johnson, a Good Morning America contributor, has gone and is going through what millions and millions of women struggle with daily; the weight battle. Here at Half Stack, we had an opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with this influential lady who is bringing light into her struggle and how she discovered a happier life.

Tory Johnson, a well-known TV personality, admits that she was once addicted to carbs.

“As a kid, food was comforting to me” she stated and always wondered why she would be gaining weight. “I didn’t know what eating good foods was or bad foods” as many other children thought. As she grew older, now she was also drinking and smoking, adding to the toxic lifestyle she was creating for herself. “I started moderating my weight, which doesn’t work for people” she admitted. “You cannot keep eating things that keep making you gain weight; that’s being crazy.” So she decided to make a drastic change for her weight and for her lifestyle.

“I committed myself to make a change” she matter of fact stated, “I walked to weight watchers since it was time I needed to make change.” She started eating better, limited her smoking and drinking and started seeing a change. “I realized that you cannot have cheat days. You cannot reward healthy eating with a cupcake, it just doesn’t make sense.” She also used Rise, an application on your phone that helps you stay accountable on what you are eating, and how much of it you are eating. “It is a tool to have on yourself to help you reach that goal.”

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(photo from Giltcity.com)

She finally lost the weight and was pleased with herself. So what made Tory write a book on how she lost the weight? “The viewers of Good Morning America were asking me on how I lost the weight.” She kept receiving emails from people from all around the world saying that she encouraged them and wanted to know her secret so they convinced her to pull out the laptop and start writing about her journey. That’s how her book The Shift came about.

The Shift is about a shift in the mindset. Anyone can lose weight, but losing and keeping it off takes more than healthy eating and exercise, it takes a change in someone’s mindset.

“The book starts with a conversation with my boss. I have tried and failed all the time with losing weight and my boss at ABC said to lose weight or you’re fired.” That allowed her to focus on the issue. Either lose the weight once and for all or lose her dream job. “I needed to lose the weight and the conservation freed me. I had to do it once and for all.”

The Book chronicles 1 year of her journey, 62 lbs. lost. In total now she has lost over 80lbs, but the book focuses on the battle, before and after. “Remember it is not a diet” she stated, “a diet is a phase, it is temporary, it is bad behavior. This is forever.” So what advice does Tory give in her book? She highlights big habit changes “One must eat less and choose smarter like cutting carbs, which was my addiction before” she mentions. “You also must track how much you move and stay accountable, go on the scale daily.” She also states “Anyone can do it, all it takes is the right mindset.”

So for all of you that struggle with the weight battle, which is plenty of us, make sure to pick up Tory Johnson’s new book, The Shift. She also lists her favorite recipes in the book to help you out. Also check out the app Rise to help you on your weight loss journey. As Tory stated in our conversation, “You have to commit to the change.”

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1930’s themed barber shop for men and boys. Specializing in traditional, classic, and regular haircuts. Hot towel shaves by appointment.

Haircuts : $20.00 Head Shaves : $25.00 Straight Razor Shaves : $30.00 182

To make an appointment www.jessesbarbershopchicago.com call: 773.628.7958 4851 W. Irving Park Rd Chicago, Illinois 60641

ZSS: Q & A WITH

Paula Simpson

Written by: Danielle Hazenkamp Layout: Kali Koller

Did you know that not only what you use on your skin, but also what vitamins you take and food you eat have a great effect on your skin? That is why ZSS Skin Systems was developed. It is believed that by taking the right supplements and using the right products, you can improve your skins health. To learn more about this brand, I was able to interview Paula Simpson, International Celebrity Beauty Nutritionist and Creative Director at ZSS Skin Systems.

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ZSS SKIN: Q & A WITH PAULA SIMPSON

HALFSTACK: What made you want to develop a skincare system with the high competition in the skincare industry?

HALFSTACK: Other than taking the supplements in the sets what other products would you would recommend?

We were not looking to compete with the skincare industry as our philosophy in skin health is more than what you apply topically. Our all inclusive nutrition focused skincare system includes both dietary supplements and a topical Nutri-Serum to nourish and revitalze skin cells from the “inside out” and “outside in.”

The Nutri Serum is designed to provide antioxidants, algae and other naturally derived ingredients to protect and hydrate the epidermis/outer layer of skin from environmental pollutants. It is designed to work along with your preferred skincare.

HALFSTACK: Most skincare systems contain a cleanser, a treatment and some sort of moisturizer; this contains supplements and serum, how does taking these supplements affect our skin since this is digested?

HALFSTACK: What type of skin care regimen would you recommend for any skin type?

In order to achieve healthy skin, The industry has typically focused on a one sided approach with topical regimens. Although this is helpful, it is within the deeper dermal layers of skin where new cells are produced and then move outward towards the epidermis (the outer layer). Nutrition is a primary driver in producing healthy skin cells and supporting the structural integrity of skin.

Moreover, targeted nutrients in dietary supplement form have shown promising clinical results in improving overall skin appearance (such as fine lines and wrinkles, hydration, firmness). Through nourishing from within, the skin as a whole benefits compared to the specific areas that topical products are applied.

Our biochemical individuality and lifestyle will change what our skin needs as we age. For additional protection against photo-aging, I always recommend a topical SPF along with an antioxidant rich foods complemented with certain nutrients in dietary supplement form. An interesting skin nutrient is zeaxanthin, a unique carotenoid found naturally in vegetables (spinach, kale, corn, peppers) and that has been clinically proven for it’s health benefits in the eye and skin (when taken in supplement form). As our key ingredient, we have used zeaxanthin in both our topical Nutri-Serum and dietary supplements because unlike many antioxidants, zeaxanthin is readily absorbed into the skin where it can effectively work as an antioxidant to neutralize stressors (free radicals,) caused by environmental pollutants and sun exposure.

Can you link to zskinsystems.com and paulasimpson.com?

Also, please follow us @zskinsystems on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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ZSS SKIN: Q & A WITH PAULA SIMPSON

ABOVE: At 3 months, Clear Skin user experienced 24% reduction in pore visibility.

ABOVE: At 3 months, Radiant Skin user experienced 60% reduction in the number of deep lines.

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SPRING BEAUTY PICKS Phyto-C B5

Once you hit a certain age it is always a good idea to add an anti-aging serum. This serum is one that I would recommend trying. It instantly moisturizes my skin. As well as reduces the appearance of my laugh lines over time. http://www.myphyto-c.us // $37.00

Waxelene Lip Balm I always love a good lip balm and this is one worth trying. When I first tried out this lip balm I was expecting the thick consistency of Carmex but it actually has a very thin consistency. I will say that it did make my lips soft. So, I would recommend it for daily use. However, if you have extremely chapped lips, I would recommend using something else as I found that it doesn’t help with healing cracked dry lips. www.waxelene.com // $3.99

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For Styler Hair Twister When I first saw this product I thought to myself, “This is going to work.” Boy, was I wrong. I followed the directions on the back of the box and only saw minor results.

My end look was wavy hair. However, I think I could have had better results if I had parted my hair in more sections and put some product in my hair as I have extremely long, straight, thick hair. I think for someone who has shorter or thinner hair following the exact instructions, this has a higher chance of working out. www.forstyler.com // $39

Gerard Cosmetics Lipstick

Lipstick in Tequila Sunrise Before putting on this this lipstick I had never tried a coral lipstick on before. I absolutely love this color and this formula. First off, this color is perfect for the spring; so bright and cheery. I can’t wait to pair this with some navy or purple liner. Also the formula is a nice soft matte that isn’t drying like some other matte lipsticks out there. www.gerardcosmetics.com // $19.99

Le Mieux Hyaluronic Shea Mask

When I used this mask I had severe dryness and peeling around my nose and thought that if this mask could help with rehydrating my skin then it would be a keeper in my book. Sure enough it did, the minute I took it off I visibly noticed that my dry skin looked better.

Also, unlike some other masks this didn’t irritate my skin and at one point I had forgotten it was even on. www.myskincarebox.com // $15

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CELEBRITY BEAUTY GURU

Brandon Liberati A HALFSTACK MAGAZINE Q & A Written by: Danielle Hazenkamp Layout: Kali Koller

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Being a makeup artist and beauty editor I am always looking for the latest and greatest products as well as tips and trends. Thanks to Brandon Liberati, hairstylist and beauty expert I was able to get the inside scoop as to what is trending for hair and makeup for spring. I don’t know about you but I plan on trying some of these trends out this spring.

HM: What makeup and hair trends do you see happening for Spring 2015?

Plums and purples were the star makeup colors on this springs runway, from eyeshadow to lips… it was all a purple haze! Black eyeliner is a must for achieving the perfect cat eye. Air hair will heat things up after a cold winter…just spray some texturizing spray on your hair and some oil on the ends and let your locks air dry naturally- add a clean side or center part to let them know this look is totally intentional! Braids are here to stay for spring. The more creative and less conventional the better. Try an unfussy low pony tail, loop it under and back through the hair tie for an even chicer look for spring.

HM: How can these trends be worn? What products should one use?

These styles can all be worn at work or play! Opt for a lighter palate in your makeup during the day and then transform your look for an after work party by layering your day face with deeper, bold or electric hues. Ponytails and braids are just as dressy as a blow out this spring. Be fabulous and try this hair trend at your next formal event.

HM: What must have products should one have in their makeup bag this spring?

MAC lipstick in Heroine or Violetta, Dior Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation, Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Push Up Gel Liner in black, Chanel mascara in black, and an extra set of MAC false eyelashes!

HM: What must have products should one have for their hair?

Oribe has an amazing dry texturizing spray is texturizer meets dry shampoo ( and it smells delicious!), and great wet texturizing spray like Davines Defining Texturizer Styling Spray, dry shampoo for volume and texture like Redken Powder Fresh Aerosol Hair Powder Dry Shampoo and a finishing dry oil for the ends of your hair, I like Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil

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HALFSTACK Q&A FEATURING

WRITTEN BY: DANIELLE HAZEKAMP LAYOUT BY: KALI KOLLER It never seizes to amaze me how many companies and talented people are here in Chicago.

Monique Rodriguez is one of those Chicago gems. Monique went from being a registered nurse to an entrepreneur. This past May, Monique launched her all natural hair and skin care line, from then on the brand has been accepted globally with orders over 100,000 customers. That is a huge accomplishment in a seven month span for a new company. Thankfully, Monique was able to take the time to answer a few questions about her line and what it was like starting her own business.

HM: What made you want to create your own hair care line?

I have always envisioned starting my own company, but I didn’t let my passion lead me at first. So, after prayer and meditation I went back to what I have always had an interest in and that is beauty and hair. They say that most of the time your passion is something that you have always had in you as a child. As a child I was obsessed with hair and beauty.

God led me to that vision and how I can help others. I decided to go with my gut and start a company that not only helped women grow healthier hair, but to be conscious of the products they use. The goal was to inspire them to use healthier and natural products. During research I found that a lot of products out are very harmful and I wanted to create a line that was safe not only for me but my children as well.

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HM: I love that your products are all natural and organic, what obstacles did you have to overcome in order to make your products this way?

There are plenty of obstacles that I face and a lot of the hard work is finding the right ingredients and the ones that work effectively.

There is a lot of trial and error. I along with my family end up being the guinea pigs. So, if it’s something that doesn’t work; unfortunately we are the ones who have to experience it not working. I put a lot of hard work and effort, late nights, and early mornings making sure ingredients are right and that they work to create a great formula.

Monique Rodriguez

C.E.O. of Milelle Organics

HM: What other obstacles did you have to overcome to start up your own line?

I still face obstacles everyday. Nothing great is easy. So, I take the challenges as learning lessons. But, one main thing I had to over come is to stop worrying and let God work it out. You cannot please everyone and I have to understand that. One of the biggest challenges with a growing company is addressing customer service needs. Mielle Organics prides itself on answering every email and call we receive but even with that work ethic, we can’t please everyone‌

HM: What do you believe is a good hair care regimen that one could follow to keep their hair healthy, strong and smooth?

course I recommend to take your advanced healthy hair formula daily because healthy hair starts from within.

HM: What is the best piece of advice you can give someone who wants to start up his or her own business?

My best advice to give someone starting their own business would be to write down your plan, commit it to God and Let God guide you and execute your vision. Why wait? There are so many that wait for that right time. If God tells you to move then move.

I would say make sure you are washing with a sulfate free shampoo every 2-3 weeks.

Deep conditioning your hair weekly and before and after you apply heat. Wear protective styles often. Make sure you are sealing your ends at night and sleeping with a satin scarf to protect and hold moisture in your hair. Of

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CROSSFIT WRITTEN BY: STELLA QUIMBY

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Crossfit, a new workout regime, has finally become a household name. Even ESPN showcases the Crossfit Games. Many argue that Crossfit is more than a workout, it is a lifestyle.

At the center of this lifestyle taking the world by storm (Crossfit boxes are almost on every continent) is a local Crossfit Box located in Lake in the Hills Illinois called Crossfit AMRAP (by the way AMRAP means as many reps as possible-Crossfit term). Crossfit AMRAP is owned by husband and wife team Matt & Brittany Lohmann. So out of all the boxes just here in the Chicagoland, what makes this box different? The answer is that it is a community; a family.

“IT IS MORE THAN A WORKOUT... IT IS A LIFESTYLE.” Boy meets girl, boy and girl marry and out come about Crossfit AMRAP, a classic story that got this unique box started. Opened since May 2010, Crossfit AMRAP currently has over 200 members with more starting each month in their foundations classes (when people first sign up to become a member they go through 2 weeks of training where they learn the important moves used in the workouts). The box also offers monthly specialty workshops (such as how to do double-unders in jump ropes a move I still cannot catch on to) and also offers Crossfit kids. Plus there are many success stories that makes the husband/wife team duo stand out from the rest.

Heather P. from Algonquin IL has lost over 55 lbs. in just over 7 months of starting Crossfit AMRAP. She has even joined the girls’ soccer team, something she wouldn’t have done before joining the community. Lisa G, from Lake in the Hills, IL has lost over 70 lbs. at Crossfit AMRAP. Lisa has gained much muscle, is super fit and is also competing in many local Crossfit competitions representing Crossfit AMRAP. She is also registered to compete in the Crossfit Open. Me myself, I have lost over 40 lbs. at AMRAP and am taken off my medications from my autoimmune disorder. All of this is evidence that these entrepreneurs are not just successfully running a business, but have made a difference in the community and are making daily impacts in people’s lives.

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Matt and Brittany have even made the much dreaded Crossfit Open into a fun community competition. For all the participants who registered for the Open, they have created 2 teams per a draft (each coached by either Matt or Britt) which will not only compete against each other but also compete as an entire team vs the other team. They get points for working out and for their scores, making this pack of competitive athletes even more competitive! Even during the holidays they have the Reindeer Games which is a weeklong competition per class (each class throughout the day competes against the other) which consists of 2 workouts per class each with a reindeer name. The last workout is Santa, which yes is definitely the hardest, since it is the big guy.

Community, friendship, and overall truly caring about their members is what sets these two apart from other Crossfit box owners. They even offer a free class every Saturday morning at 10:15am for people who want to try out Crossfit, no questions asked. Make sure to stop by at Crossfit AMRAP located at 9114 Virginia Rd Unit #111 in Lake in the Hills IL and see why this duo is our Health & Fitness Entrepreneurs choice. Let them make a difference in your life today too.

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Food & Dining

Old Landmark Becomes Landmark Dining Experience Written by Thom Olson

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T

he face of Oak Street has evolved over the years but one of

the landmarks that was a constant face on the street

was the Esquire Theater. Originally built in 1938, the cine-

ma sat 1,400 sq. feet when it was originally built. In the late

80’s, it was chopped up into a six-screen theater to compete

with the multiplex theaters that were popping up around the city vying for the diverse tastes of viewers. When originally

conceived, the movie theater was elegant and modern. The

destination date spot lost much of it’s luster in the later years

with gallons of paint build up, neglect and the stripping down of it’s once swank modern interior. The theater sat in the middle of what would become Chicago’s high-end retail district

with a wrecking ball looming off in the future. Fate, in the form of imaginative developers, stepped to repurpose the building into what is now a new destination spot… Del Friscos.

A dining experience built on another Chicago tradition — steak, Del Friscos serves up beautiful meals in an atmosphere that is once again modern, swank and really sexy. Not exactly an inexpensive dining experience, it is none-the-less memorable.

The top floors of the building look much the same, while the street level has undergone a massive redo. The front signage of the building has been landmarked. So, the new modern glass façade has an interesting nostalgic appeal without feeling cold.

On the inside, much of what was once there is not gone. The gut renovation took some time and was an engineering wonder by two teams: Booth Hansen and Forefront Structural Engineers. The second floor of the theater was completely removed to convert the first floor into dramatic two-story retail spaces.

A newly designed concrete transfer system was developed to eliminate 5 structural support columns to enhance the remaining floors and provide open space to the retails spaces. These

Once a mecca for the movie goer, the Esquire underwent a massive facelift and retrofit to bring it up to code and repurpose the building.

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Food & Dining

now house the uber-chic Tom Ford, shoe guru Christian Louboutin, Buccellati jewelers, Venezuelan designer Carolina Herrera and Italian-based Dolce & Gabbana. The upper levels of the building required the leveling of the floors. The floors were built to be previously sloped for theater seating. An outdoor terrace was installed in the upper floors to be incorporated in the restaurant. The inside was opened up to the sky for a multi-story dining room that circles around a wine tower and massive skylights. The interior feels spacious, if not Vegas/brat pack hip and modern. It has a vibe that is totally lively and contemporary with the feel of the traditional steak house.

Del Frisco’s Chicago is one of the largest steak houses in the country with a staff of over 300. The New York hub of Del Frisco’s is the busiest steak house and sells more steaks than anyplace else in the world.

Chicago’s Del Frisco’s has quickly come up right from behind. These are the same people that own Sullivan’s on Dearborn and Hubbard as well as in the suburbs.

The company has three restaurant chains under their belt. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle with 12 locations in most of the major cities and is on the upscale side of their portfolio. Del Frisco’s Grill is more casual dining and has 18 locations. It hasn’t come to Chicago as of yet. The third is Sullivan’s, which has 19 locations around the country. It is a cross hybrid that sits between the two. This location has been a Chicago hot spot for quite some time.

It’s Thursday and Sunday specials are hard

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to beat and they usually have a live music combo on those nights.

The interior of the restaurant seats over 560. On a typical night, the dining room is buzzing with 20% of the tables being parties of 10 or more. This is a group place. Special occasions and business meetings are often times occurring in one of the four private dining rooms. By business meeting I also include the group dinners for the Blackhawks when they are around or rehearsal diners for some upcoming nuptials.

The top floor dining room can also be used as a private dining room to accommodate 180 people with the smallest private dining room accommodating 10.

This intimate private room also has access to the patio overlooking Oak Street making it one of the most lovely, private dining rooms I have seen in the city.

Architectual Wonder of Wine The tone of the place is warm and relaxed. It has a rugged masculine feel with warm woods, dark metals with orange and aqua hued fabrics and finishes. This steak house feels lighter and more polished than most older steak joints. A wall of glass in the main dining room overlooks Oak Street and the 70-seat patio for outdoor dining. This restaurant is a mecca for wine lovers as much a steak. It has one of the best wine collections in the city — or

for that matter, the state. The center core of the restaurant revolves around a two story atrium that has a fifty foot glass wine tower. The tower houses three floors of wine that are connected by an interior spiral staircase. At first glance, one is in complete awe of this wine tower… and incredibly thirsty. What makes it a marvel is that it is suspended from the ceiling!

The concrete supports from below were removed for the interior retails space.

This wine cabinet required supports to be built from above thus the multi-storied wine cabinet is suspended from the room’s roof supports. This is only part of the 1,700 labels of wine collection of this restaurant. There are 12,000 bottles of wine in the central collection in the tower.

There are another 8,000 bottles of wine scattered throughout the restaurant for a total of over 20,000 bottles housed in the restaurant at one time. On a typical week, Del Friscos will go through over 100 cases of wine. There is a million-dollar wall of wine lining the upper floor dining room that houses the best-of-the-best and the numerous private dining rooms also have walls that are stacked up to the ceiling with wine storage. I haven’t seen anything this spectacular outside of Napa, California. It is a seductive interior space that inspires one to relax and enjoy the dining experience… and order a second bottle.

The wine list is a 40-page, spiral-bound book complete with a table of contents on the front page. There are wines from $40 a bottle to $7000 each and hitting every price point in between. There is also a large (OK… huge) variety of wines by the glass. Michael Taylor is the king of wine at Del Frisco’s. He has an extensive career and a vast knowledge in wine — particularly Italian Reds as part of his career was spent as sommelier at Chicago’s Italian Village and Vivere in the Loop. The wine list is his baby and something he is very much proud of. He was pretty much given cart blanche to get what he wanted. He took his task very seriously and the wine list stands up against any other restaurant across the country. It is perfection, if not overwhelming. No fears about ordering the wrong wine with your meal, there are

. There are 12,000 bottles of wine in the central collection in the tower.

This is only part of the 1,700 labels of wine collection of this restaurant.

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Food & Dining always 3 to 4 sommelier on the floor at all times to help you find your way.

For the cocktail lover in all of us, there are TWO bars so there is no waiting. The main floor bar greets you as you walk in and is next to the host stand. The top floor lounge is more hidden and alluring.

If you want to watch a game on television and plan to spend some time, this is the spot… and do plan to do so. It is a lovely experience. Should you not be a wine lover but love a good cocktail, they do a nice

job. The cocktail menu has many classics done with a nice twist. They pour a lovely Blackberry and Ginger perfection that has a Woodford Reserve Bourbon base with a splash of ginger beer — Yum with a capitol “Y”. The signature cocktail is the VIP — a Svedka Clementine vodka drink that has been infused with fresh pineapple. It is very refreshing. I found the cocktail menu a bit heavy on the vodka side of the menu if you’re a gin lover or like some of the other spirits. Some thought does need to be put into this list. This was my only

Check out the enormous painting called “The Bow” on the mezzanine level of Del Frisco’s. The 132” x 192” canvas painting is by James McLaughlin Way of a horse. The painting is extraordinary.

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qualm, but I really was into the wine so it didn’t really matter. If anything, I would say the cocktails are nice and the bar staff is very, very knowledgeable… but this is place for wine.

Much of the Chicago location has the stamp of the General Manager Troy Smith.

Troy started out as a server and quickly became an Asst. Manager at Sullivan’s in Chicago. He later became a General Manager at the Naperville location before coming to the Del Frisco’s location. He was involved in all steps of planning at Chicago Del Frisco’s from menu to artwork. He runs a tight ship and is very cordial. Speaking of artwork, check out he enormous painting called “The Bow” on the mezzanine. The 132” x 192” canvas painting is by James McLaughlin Way of a horse. McLaughlin Way’s style takes inspiration from the work of Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Caravaggio. He is a master at showing muscle structures, form, light and shadow. The painting has the Chicago skyline very faintly added in the horizon line of the background at the request of Troy. It is that kind of attention to detail that makes this restaurant and his leadership truly interesting and noteworthy.

The Food Oops — There is so much going on visually that I almost forgot the food. Yes! They serve food and it’s good. This is a steak place, but it is sitting on the high end retail Oak Street shopping corridor. Many of the patrons during lunch and cocktails are women who are looking for new options to dine after a shopping experience. This is a fun and new destination particularly when the weather warms up. The patio will be the go-to spot to refresh after a long day of shopping at Carolina Herrera.

With this in mind, the menu is much lighter and fresher feeling than most steaks houses. Troy Smith was very conscious in planning a dining experience that attracts a wider audience and not just rolling out the typical steak joint. There is a variety of seafood. The lunchtime menu has many salad and sandwich options.

No — there are not any vegetarian or vegan options. It is a steakhouse. There are a couple of chicken options but these are only available at lunch. In the evening, these are less available. This is a spot for

those who love red meat and seafood.

That mentioned, you will find it exceedingly easy to make a meal on a couple of appetizers if steak is not your thing. PORTIONS ARE NOT SMALL and this is really a sharing experience.

A great startThere is so much going on visually that I almost forgot the food. Yes! er would be the Cheesesteak Eggrolls. They serve food and it’s good. PORTIONS ARE NOT SMALL OMG – Love this.

These are tasty variations on Asian fare and scallions. The crabcake is nice and that have wonderful flavor and texture. A comes with a Cajun lobster sauce. If you heftier rendition on an eggroll, these are like the crabcake, you will be delighted to more substantial. A glass of dry red is exknow it comes in entrée portions as well. cellent with these and the flavor has a little You will want to note that some of the bit of a kick without heat as they come food has a spice – but not heat. This food with sweet chili and mustard sauce. The is flavorful without setting your mouth on Shangahi-Style Fried Calamari also has fire. a little bit of heat but it is tempered with The sides were a big surprise. There bean spouts, and some crushed peanuts

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A Heads Up:

Don’t forget the patio that overlooks the city. It will be fabulous at sundown.

were many options to select from — almost a dozen. The first pick will undoubtedly be the Lobster Mac & Cheese. Wow. This was fabulous and Del Frisco’s doesn’t skimp on the lobster. It is very easy to make this an entrée as it is a nice size for sharing… or not. Not being a fan of Brussels spouts, I decided to try them on a whim. They have become my favorite and I would come here just for the brussels spouts. They are nicely chopped and not big golf balls. They have a delicious flavor enhanced with bacon.

The steaks come in a variety of sizes (8 oz. to 32 oz.) and a variety of cuts. They

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offer lunch size portions that are nicely priced. My fillet was done very nicely with a crispy seared crust that was moist and juicy on the inside. It was perfectly cooked and had quite a bit of flavor. It has a peppery finish that was perfect with a dry cabernet. Service was excellent and quite personable. The waiter was able to steer me into the right direction regarding cooking temperatures and what I like in a steak. He was also able to steer me clear of things that I wouldn’t enjoy but was curious about. He gave good suggestions without a sales pitch. I wasn’t being directed to the most expensive thing on the menu which I appreciated.

This is a special occasion dining spot. I would be remiss in not saying it comes with a hefty price tag. Yes — it is expensive.

Appetizers will start at $13 (Cheesesteak Eggrolls — I would get these always) to a Shellfish platter that feeds two or four guests ($79.50 – $153.00). That price seems a little scary to me. Most appetizers will hover around $17. Sides will average around $11. Seafood entrées are close to $38 with steaks starting at $41 but going up to $90 for the 32 oz. Wagyu Longbone. Again, this is not an inexpensive place, but one that you want to enjoy a meal or special occasion at. If a party of two arrives and each has an appetizer, entrée with sides and dessert with a couple of glasses of wine each — one is looking at a tab of over $200 without the tax and tip. Both will most surely walk home with dinner for the next day and have some lovely memories. If you are on a budget and want to experience Del Frisco’s or you want to splurge on yourself, lunch is great option. They offer a business lunch special that comes with a choice of side for $25. Another option, that is a fabulous deal, is the Sunday Special. This is a prix fixe that comes with a choice of salad, side, an 8 oz. fillet accompanies with a choice of either a crab cake, BBQ-spiced Shrimp or Lemon & Garlic Scallops. The Sunday Special is $55 per person. Both of these deals are quite tasty and the tab will not scare you.

This place is quite popular and busy.

It seats over 500 and THEY FILL IT. A reservation is really recommended. You will want to spend some time enjoying the wine list and the atmosphere. Make a point to get a table on the patio as the view is lovely at sunset. It is just a tad cold right now with the current sub-zero temperatures so enjoy the warmth of the interior and order another bottle of wine.

Written by Thom Olson Thom Olson is a freelance writer and designer.

He is a frequent contributer to HalfStack on restaurants, events and fashion. Many other articles or reviews can be found online at http://halfstackmagazine.blogspot.com

Reborn to Reveal Written by Tareq Al Saud

H

er name is Rana Jaafar Yaseen, but I would like to call her Phoenix. In Greek mythology, a phoenix is a long-lived bird that is cyclically regenerated, reborn or arises into new life from the fiery ashes of its predecessor or previous life. The story of Rana Jaafar Yaseen begins in Iraq on April 21st of 1980. Her childhood was pleasant if not glorious but from a divided home. She developed a close relationship with her mother from the beginning. A smart young girl, she followed her passion to study architecture in college. In 2001, Rana’s dear and protectorate mother died due to a sudden illness. Her whole life changed completely. Due to the stress and emotional and supportive loss, she dropped out of school and her architectural studies. Rana went through a long period loneliness, depression and solitude. She sought help for her depression.

While getting the treatment from a therapist, she got sexually harassed by her psychiatrist. That made the situation worse. A woman alone in Iraq, she faced violence in the streets during the last war of 2003 and discrimination. To add to the level of stress, Rana took on the responsibility of taking care of her elderly aunt who was abandoned by most of her family members. The two became a family unit as each attempted to provide stability and love for one another as best they could.

when you want something, the whole universe conspires to help you get it.

I experienced that.�

Arts & Culture

The family abandonment and tragedy was horribly painful and not easy to accept or understand. Women in Iraq take on incredible roles of responsibility without much in the way of support from the male dominated society. She continued to walk a path of painful isolation. On the other end of the spectrum, a beautiful light came into her life helping her transform this isolation and loneliness into a source of creativity. This creativity would show up in small ways at first but became a source of light in a dark world. Over time, this newly provided source for creativity grew stronger. It was if she had found a

The signs were around me everywhere...

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friend from within who was listening. Rana realized at that moment that there was something percolating up from the depths of her sadness. That source was to be the spark to set the fire of her rebirth.

“It became the guiding role for my life” “There was a surprise or a lesson that was being taught.” she said. She started to write feverously. This fever caused her to focus on poetry and a means of creative expression. “The poetry suddenly started to flow through me and from that day on, I knew that I had a new guide in my life. The poetry helped me to identify myself again with clearer vision and gain powerful will.” The poetry helped to transform her back into the art skills. It was this new door that widely opened that helped her rebuild self-esteem and to lead her to find inner peace. Rana was able to heal her life through her poems and artwork. It gave her the power to face the horrible experiences that led her later to repeatedly rediscover her soul on a deeper level and recognize it as her creativity source over and over.

A phoenix does not reemerge just once. Our phoenix was primed to be reborn again. There would be another a huge turn in her life in August 2006. Rana (along with her elderly aunt) was kidnapped by a group of terrorists known as the Fedayeen Saddam. This militia group was created by the current leader Saddam Hussein.

The word Fedayeen means Saddam’s men of sacrifice. After the war in 2003, the group was responsible for many criminal actions to people in Iraq. This incident of being kidnapped with elderly disabled woman changed her whole life. “It gave me a new life with new awareness when being in the moment was one of the most important thing in my life. So I could see clearly everything ahead and appreciate the meaning of being alive.” She said.

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The Fedayeen Saddam Fedayeen Saddam organized smuggling activities and other illegal efforts along Iraq’s borders. The group was thought to be directly responsible for some of the regime’s most brutal acts with forces of approximately 10,000 to 15,000 from the regions most loyal to the Baath regime. This group grew to 30,000 to 40,000 members that led guerilla-style attacks on coalition forces in southern Iraq. Saddam’s eldest son Uday, bypassing the military chain of command, was in charge of the group. It is widely reported to operate a death squad that conducts extra-judicial executions.

The U.S. State Department, for example, accuses the Fedayeen of beheading more than 200 women as part of an alleged anti-prostitution campaign. Some of the families of the victims were forced to display the heads outside their homes. According to state department reports, many of the victims were not engaged in prostitution but were targeted for political reasons or a means to extort money from the nation’s wealthier families. In Rana’s case, the family paid an exorbitant amount paying much of what the family owned.

That was the sign that showed Rana her purpose and taught her the meaning of sacrifice and responsibility. Everything became very clear later. And the signs kept showing up in her life. Rana and her elderly aunt moved to a new place of safety — Egypt. On September 2006, they set up a new base and a new life in Cairo. That was the place for our Phoenix to reborn again.

“The signs were around me everywhere”, she said. “As Paulo Coelho said in The Alchemist; when you want something the whole universe conspires to help you to get it.

I experienced that.”

She tried to eliminate the previous tragedy and focus on one positive huge fact: they were now alive and safe. They did not have to walk in fear. She started working on her self-growth, writing, painting, doing meditation and opening the doors of mind for her spirituality to let in.

“Day by day, I learned more and many doors were opening.” She said. “I discovered a lot of things about how to deal with the subconscious mind. I created a formula to heal and discharge all the negative thoughts and painful experiences. Poetry and artwork were my tools to experience whatever I wanted. The universe was generous enough to show me the road and the way ahead.”

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Rebirth… again.

Rana lived in Egypt for seven years. Her accomplishments and achievements grew at a phenomenal rate. She was able to stretch her wings to fly. She published 7 books plus poetry, short stories essays, play scripts and other literature. Her work was highly praised and she received many international literary awards. She designed all the covers and illustrated the pages of her books herself. She designed over 130 works of art (including collage and metal work), designed 2000 jewelry pieces made with copper and stone inspiring by the old civilizations of Mesopotamia and was a regular exhibitor on the gallery circuit.

Keep in mind that Rana had not finished college. There wasn’t the opportunity to continue her studies. However, there was an inner desire to share her poetry.

A regular at poetry readings and poetry slam groups, Rana became very comfortable and poised in front of an audience. She was able to discuss her work and the meanings and depth behind her poetry. The poetry crowd is a very cultured and polished crowd. It was not long before she attracted the attention of people in the media. They were looking for a fresh face to put in front of the camera. They wanted someone who was confident and fearless. Life had taught her the meaning of real fear. This opportunity wasn’t something to be afraid of. This was an opportunity.

Rana Jaafar Yaseen became the face of a new Middle Eastern woman. Much of the popularity of her work also grew out of her achievements in the media. She made herself into a media icon in the Middle East. Rana wrote, presented and anchored on many TV shows in Cairo and worked with many TV channels for 8 years. Her face was seen by millions of people in the Middle East and also across Europe. The light that was burning from within that kept her going through all the turmoils, was now a light for many millions of women (and men) in the Middle East. Her face and voice was healing for many.

“Creativity is healing.” Rana said and followed: “That is what I discovered and what I learned. I’ve learned behind each deep pain, there is a great purpose. And I learned that we have the power within and we can change our fate. That was what I have done. It is what I believe.”

Rana marketed herself as a TV host and did very well. She ended up being one of the most famous public figures in Iraq, Egypt and Middle East countries. Rana wrote and hosted thousands of hours of TV media time for over 200 television segments interviewing the most famous and powerful public figures. She became the spokeswomen for many women of the Middle East. She hosted the Middle East’s major network daily show that was seen by people in over 12 countries and on 4 continents.

“More than one woman lives inside me.” Rana said. “Each one of them has appeared in a different stage of my journey. Each woman has her own way of thinking and the creativity to overcome the pain in each situation. I’ve learned during my journey how to transform pain, fear, resentment, and loss into creativity.”

Rana wrote and hosted over 200 television segments interviewing the most famous and powerful in the Middle East

Thoughout her busy schedule in the TV, she did not stop writing her poems, short stories or developing her artworks. “Through my poetry and artwork, I was able to heal myself. The horrible experiences helped me to discover my soul and recognize my power.”

The story hasn’t ended yet.

Egypt is a temporary country for Iraqis who apply for the refuge program of resettlement with the UN. On March 1st, 2013, Rana was resettled with her elderly aunt to the United States under the “women at risk” charter with the UN.

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“I was looking forward to apply what I learned and to pursue my goal to help people who faced the violence and tragedy by finding their hidden aspects of creativity to rebuild the self-esteem and find their goals in life.” Rana said.

This has proved to me a bit of a challenge. Things were not easy at the beginning especially with the lack of language.

Rana had no clue where to start and how to transfer her dreams into realities. Barely able to express herself in English, this move was excruciatingly difficult.

“It was another hard — a disappointing time. I didn’t know what to do. At that time I trusted my fate, I believed in my power, I asked the universe to show me the way.”

One day in September, she was feeling hopeless. She decided to listen to something about inner peace on YouTube.

Rana thought it might help or it might make me learn some new words in English.

“I remember the first word I added to my vocabulary that day was reveal.” Rana said. “I learned the meaning of this word and it was my new sign to continue and positively surrender to the power of the universe. And that what happened. I was working on improving the language by myself. Then I found many resources about healing with creativity, I learned a lot of new principles and combined them with what I have done. I also found the Empowered Women International Organization in Washington DC. I met wonderful people there who trusted my talents and my goals in life; and helped me to overcome this lack of language believing in my intention to pursue my purpose and share my personal story to help people and inspire them.”

One of her biggest supporters that she met along the way was her husband. He believed in her, her goals and purpose in life. Rana gratefully acknowledges that her journey (Baghdad, Cairo and US) has helped her find many ways to express her-

self and touch her soul. The responsibility of her aunt taught Rana the meaning of sacrifice and how fortunate we are if we have the chance to keep someone happy and safe.

“I developed a formula to heal with creativity. And I’ve learned how to get into my subconscious mind to release the pain, fear, and harmful images from the past…I let them all go. Every day I hear my calling, it tells me to write, it urges me to work with people. It is just a life language. If we let ourselves freely listen to it, we can awaken our calling, empower it, then follow it and experience it.”

Rana believes there is an artistic way to live the life fully.

This artistic way is coming from the creative, spiritual aspects in our daily activities. She urges people to discover their creative path and live it thoroughly — believing in the possibility of ourselves. She also believes that we are a part of the Universe. We can heal and cure all the wounds inside by following the signs that surround us and to help to stimulate this inner power.

“I am new in this country. Looking forward to meeting people with whom I can work to start helping people to get over their previous tragedy and find the meaning in life.” Rana said. Rana is currently studying English at Nova College and is writing a new book titled “The Flavor of the Universe.” It’s about her precious journey and how she transforms tragedy into creativity. She is still active and involved with Empowered Women International Organization programs and believes in helping others with their journey. One of her new revelations is her development of a new important project to help those who are coming to the US as refugees and immigrants. It is called the Refugees’ Leadership Institute.

At the end of our interview, Rana wanted to share her philosophy of her beliefs as it is something that has helped guide her through her walk in life:

“Let’s remember: Challenge is not impossible to handle; it’s an opportunity to create. The power is within, and the sun can always be created. Nothing can stop us when the heart starts to sing. Everyone has a song inside.”

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Unknown to no one... in the US Written by Tareq Al Saud

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L

ike most bands, UTN1 started out as a group of guys who were friends. They had talent and decided to try something… a rock band in the Middle East. They started 15 years ago in Baghdad in 1999. Originally a duo band of Shant and Artin, the band is made up of four members: Akhlad, Hassan, Shant and Artin. Unlike names in Western culture like Smith or Jones, UTN1 doesn’t use their full names with promoting their music.

Last names or full names in the Middle East are based on tribal names, groups or sects. This group is about unity and seeks to promote that in their work. Thus the name UTN1: Unknown to No One. The fifth member Nadeem joined the band after a stint in the UK. A keyboardist Marwan would join in 2011.

UTN1 is based on different cultures. Those cultures represent the diversity of Iraq. The idea was to mix music and to use Eastern and Western musical instruments. It focuses on rock music sound and rhythms but borrows from Latin music and pop and uses a variety of the famous eastern instruments like the Lute (a Middle Eastern guitar-like instrument), the Joza (also known as the Rebab —an 8th Century string instrument and is played with a bow like the violin) and Qanun (a 26 course string instrument very similar to today’s autoharp).

Like many rock bands — it was a meager start. Instruments were stored in the back end of a Volkswagen Passat. The vehicle was a roving rehearsal stage. They did anything they could get

‫"ﻧﺮﻳﺪ ﺍﻥ ﻧﺘﻮﺟﻪ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺟﻤﻬﻮﺭﻧﺎ ﺑﺎﻟﻘﻮﻝ ﺃﻧﻨﺎ ﻛﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺍﺣﺪ‬ ‫ﻣﻮﺟﻮﺩﻭﻥ ﺑﺎﻟﺮﻏﻢ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺴﺎﻓﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﺸﺎﺳﻌﺔ ﺍﻟﺘﻲ ﺗﻔﺼﻠﻨﺎ ﻭ ﺇﻧﻪ‬ ‫ ﻓﻲ ﻧﻬﺎﻳﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﻄﺎﻑ ﻧﺤﻦ‬. ‫ﺗﺤﺪ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ ﻟﻨﺎ ﻟﻜﻨﻨﺎ ﻣﺴﺘﻤﺮﻭﻥ ﻣﻌﺎ‬ ‫ﻧﻌﻤﻞ ﻻﺳﺘﻜﻤﺎﻝ ﺍﻷﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﻭﺍﻷﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻭﻧﺄﻣﻞ ﺃﻥ ﺍﻟﻈﺮﻭﻑ‬ ‫ﺳﺘﺴﻤﺢ ﻟﻨﺎ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻮﻓﺎء ﺑﻮﻋﺪﻧﺎ ﻓﻲ ﺍﺳﺮﻉ ﻭﻗﺖ ﺣﺘﻰ ﻳﺘﻤﻜﻦ‬ ‫ ﻫﺬﺍ ﻫﻮ ﻫﺪﻓﻨﺎ ﻭﻧﺤﻦ ﻧﻘﺎﺗﻞ ﻣﻦ‬.‫ﻟﺠﻤﻬﻮﺭﻧﺎ ﻣﺸﺎﺭﻛﺘﻨﺎ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﺣﺔ‬ ".‫ﺍﺟﻞ ﺍﻟﻮﺻﻮﻝ ﺇﻟﻴﻪ‬ ‫ ﻭﺟﻪ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺘﻪ ﺍﻟﻰ ﻭﻃﻨﻪ‬، ‫ﻓﻲ ﺧﺘﺎﻡ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﺤﻮﺍﺭ ﺍﻟﻤﻤﺘﻊ‬ : ‫ﺍﻻﻡ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ‬ ‫ ﻧﻮﺩ ﻭﻧﺄﻣﻞ ﺃﻥ ﻳﺴﻮﺩ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ‬،‫"ﺃﻣﺎ ﺑﺎﻟﻨﺴﺒﺔ ﻟﺒﻠﺪﻧﺎ ﺍﻟﺤﺒﻴﺐ ﻭﺷﻌﺒﻪ‬ ‫ ﻭﻧﺄﻣﻞ ﺃﻥ ﻧﺮﻯ ﺣﺪ ﻹﺭﺍﻗﺔ ﺍﻟﺪﻣﺎء ﻭﺍﻷﻣﻞ ﻹﺩﺭﺍﻙ ﺃﻥ‬.‫ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺒﻼﺩ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﻔﺘﺎﺡ ﻟﻠﻌﻴﺶ ﻓﻲ ﺳﻼﻡ ﻭﺃﻣﺎﻥ ﻫﻮ ﻗﺒﻮﻝ ﺍﻵﺧﺮ ﻭ ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﺭﻛﺔ‬ ." ‫ ﺍﻟﺪﻳﻦ ﷲ ﻭﺍﻟﻮﻃﻦ ﻟﻠﺠﻤﻴﻊ‬،‫ﻣﻌﻪ ﻟﺒﻨﺎء ﺍﻟﻮﻃﻦ‬

They had talent and decided to try something… a rock band in the Middle East.

“...we want to say is that every person who wants to achieve a goal or ambition must seek it. Do not give up no matter how difficult the circumstances.” some air-time on the radio… but remember, this is Iraq. So to get airtime they had to compose a song for Saddam’s birthday.

It was a catchy tune – much like Happy Birthday in the US, but it guaranteed them air-time twice an hour during the celebratory period that was Saddam’s birthday.

Akhlad decided to leave the team and travel. When he left the team in 2002, Dler joined the team temporarily. He scored the rest of the first album. In the same year, they got the support of Alan Enwia who was a Christian Assyrian music store owner. His support helped the team to complete the first album.

The album was completed and put to market in 2002. It was a successful album and enjoyed a significant cross-over audience from other cultures. People who listen to Western songs purchased the album and reacted positively to it.

After the Iraqi war, the band received a great deal of interest in Western new media as Iraqi’s only Western style, pop-rock, boy band. The entry of the foreign press to Iraq in 2003 proved fruitful and the export of the album on social media was enormous.

UTN1 was surprised one morning that there is a tremendous amount of press in the entrance of the house of Hassan. They were confused in knowing why and neighbors gathered around as well. It was there first media frenzy. It was funny that one of the journalists scored an interview and entrance to the kitchen to ask

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‫ﺍﻟﺘﻐﻴﻴﺮ ﻛﻤﺎ ﻳﺘﻐﻴﺮ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ‬

‫ ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﻛﻞ ﺍﻟﺘﻲ‬،‫ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻟﻢ ﻭﺑﻴﺌﺔ ﺳﺮﻳﻌﺔ ﺍﻟﺘﻐﻴﺮ‬ ‫ ﻣﻌﺎﻟﺠﺘﻬﺎ ﻓﻲ ﺃﻏﺎﻧﻴﻬﻢ ﺃﻭ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺔ‬UTN1 ‫ﺣﺎﻭﻝ ﻓﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ ﻭﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻤﻨﻄﻘﺔ ﺍﻻﻛﺜﺮ ﺗﺮﻛﻴﺰﺍ ﻋﻨﺪ ﺍﻟﻨﻈﺮ ﻓﻲ‬.‫ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﺎﻫﻢ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﻛﻞ ﺍﻟﻨﺎﺗﺠﺔ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻻﻫﻤﺎﻝ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻤﻨﺎﺯﻝ ﻭﺍﻷﺳﺮ ﻭﺍﻟﻤﺪﺍﺭﺱ‬ ‫ ﺗﻔﻜﻚ ﺍﻻﺳﺮ ﻭﻋﺪﻡ ﺗﻮﺟﻴﻪ ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ ﺍﻟﻰ ﻛﻴﻔﻴﺔ ﺍﺣﺘﺮﺍﻡ‬.‫ﻭﺍﻟﺘﻌﻠﻴﻢ‬ ‫ "ﺛﻤﺔ ﻣﺸﻜﻠﺔ ﺃﺧﺮﻯ ﻫﻲ‬،UTN1 ‫ ﻳﻘﻮﻝ‬.‫ﺁﺭﺍء ﺑﻌﻀﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﺒﻌﺾ‬ ".‫ ﻭﻫﺬﺍ ﻫﻮ ﺑﺴﺒﺐ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ‬،‫ﺍﻥ ﺍﻟﺠﻤﻴﻊ ﻳﺨﺎﻑ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺠﻤﻴﻊ‬ ‫ ﻋﻘﺪﺍ ﻣﻊ ﺷﺮﻛﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﻓﻲ ﻟﺒﻨﺎﻥ ﻓﻲ‬UTN1‫ﻛﺎﻥ ﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ ﻭﺍﻟﻌﻘﺪ ﺍﻧﺘﻬﺖ ﻋﻨﺪﻣﺎ ﺍﻧﺘﻘﻞ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺇﻟﻰ‬.2010-2005 ‫ﺍﻟﺴﻨﻮﺍﺕ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻮﻻﻳﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪﺓ ﺍﻷﻣﺮﻳﻜﻴﺔ ﺑﺴﺒﺐ ﺍﺣﺪﺍﺙ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﻭﺏ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ‬ ‫ ﻭﻛﺎﻥ ﻋﻠﻴﻨﺎ‬.‫ "ﻛﺎﻥ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﺘﺤﺮﻙ ﻟﻪ ﺗﺄﺛﻴﺮ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ ﻋﻠﻴﻨﺎ‬.‫ﺍﻷﻭﺳﻂ‬ ‫ ﻟﻘﺪ‬.‫ﺃﻥ ﻧﻌﺘﻤﺪ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺃﻧﻔﺴﻨﺎ ﻣﺎﻟﻴﺎ ﻭﺗﻮﻓﻴﺮ ﻭﻗﺖ ﺍﺿﺎﻓﻲ ﻟﻠﺒﺮﻭﻓﺎﺕ‬ ‫ ﻧﺤﻦ‬.‫ﺗﻢ ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﻟﻤﺪﺓ ﺛﻼﺙ ﺳﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﺣﺘﻰ ﻻﻧﺠﺎﺯ ﻷﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﺍﻟﻘﺎﺩﻡ‬ ‫ﻧﻌﻮﻝ ﺍﻵﻥ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﻮﺍﻗﻊ ﺍﻟﺸﺒﻜﺎﺕ ﺍﻻﺟﺘﻤﺎﻋﻴﺔ ﻟﻨﺸﺮ ﻛﻞ ﺷﻲء‬ ‫ ﻃﻤﻮﺣﻨﺎ ﻫﻮ ﺗﻮﻗﻴﻊ ﻋﻘﺪ ﺟﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻊ ﺷﺮﻛﺔ‬.‫ﻋﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﺍﻟﻤﻘﺒﻞ‬ ." ‫ﺍﻧﺘﺎﺝ ﻓﻨﻲ ﺣﺘﻰ ﻧﺘﻤﻜﻦ ﻣﻦ ﻟﻌﻮﺩﺓ ﺑﻘﻮﺓ‬

ً ‫ﺍ‬ ‫ﻗﺮﻳﺒﺎ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﺟﺪﻳﺪ‬

‫"ﻟﻘﺪ ﺑﺪﺃﻧﺎ ﺗﺴﺠﻴﻞ ﺃﻟﺒﻮﻣﻨﺎ ﺍﻟﻘﺎﺩﻡ ﻭﻧﺤﻦ ﻓﻲ ﺣﻮﺍﻟﻲ ﺍﻟﻨﺼﻒ ﻣﻨﻪ‬ ‫ﻭﻗﺪ ﺻﻮﺭﻧﺎ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻓﻲ ﻣﺪﻳﻨﺔ ﻭﺍﺷﻨﻄﻦ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻮﻻﻳﺎﺕ‬ ‫ ﺗﺤﻤﻞ ﻋﻨﻮﺍﻥ‬، ‫ﺍﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪﺓ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺮﺝ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺎﺏ ﻋﻠﻲ ﻛﺮﻳﻢ‬ ‫ ﻭﻛﺎﻥ‬.‫"ﻣﺮ ﺑﻴﺎ" ﻭﺃﻟﻬﻢ ﻣﻦ ﻛﻼﻡ ﺻﺪﻳﻖ ﺭﻭﺑﻦ ﺗﻮﻣﺎﺳﻴﺎﻥ ﻭﺍﻟﺤﻨﻪ‬ ،‫ ﺍﻷﻏﻨﻴﺔ‬. ‫ﻳﺘﻢ ﺗﻮﺯﻳﻌﻬﺎ ﻣﻦ ﻗﺒﻞ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺯﻉ ﺍﻟﻠﺒﻨﺎﻧﻲ ﺷﺎﻫﻲ ﻛﻮﺑﻠﻴﺎﻥ‬ ‫ﺣﻘﻘﺖ ﺣﺘﻰ ﺍﻵﻥ ﺗﺄﺛﻴﺮﺍ ﻛﺒﻴﺮﺍ ﻗﺒﻞ ﺍﻥ ﻳﺒﺚ ﺍﻟﻔﻴﺪﻳﻮ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ‬ .‫ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻘﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﺍﻟﺘﻠﻔﺰﻳﻮﻧﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻭﺃﻳﻀﺎ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﻮﻗﻊ ﻳﻮﺗﻴﻮﺏ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﻮﻗﻊ ﻟﻬﺬﺍ ﺍﻷﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﺃﻥ ﻳﻄﺮﺡ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻻﺳﻮﺍﻕ ﻓﻲ ﻣﻨﺘﺼﻒ‬ ‫ ﻭﻻ ﻳﺰﺍﻝ ﻳﺠﺮﻱ ﻭﺿﻊ‬.‫ﺍﻟﺼﻴﻒ ﺑﺤﻠﻮﻝ ﻧﻬﺎﻳﺔ ﻳﻮﻟﻴﻮ ﺗﻤﻮﺯ‬ 8 ‫ﺍﻟﻠﻤﺴﺎﺕ ﺍﻷﺧﻴﺮﺓ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻗﺎﺋﻤﺔ ﺍﻻﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﻭﻟﻜﻦ ﺳﻮﻑ ﻳﺘﻜﻮﻥ ﻣﻦ‬ .‫ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺎﺕ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺓ‬10 ‫ﺇﻟﻰ‬

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about questions. The band knew this is the beginning of their journey. After the war however, life would prove to be difficult.

Living in the Iraq would not be an option. Members of the band moved to Jordan and then to London.

In 2004, one of the songs was recorded in Britain was titled “While We Can”. This was there first international song hit. It talked about the war and was aired on many Arab, Middle East and foreign channels. The band was able to convey a message to the whole world — the message was living in peace and harmony among the cultures of the world.

A lot of the news media, newspapers, TV Channels and radios in Iraq were focusing on the political affairs and new governments legislations. In 2006, we had the opportunity work be based in Lebanon. The Lebanese media supported us and our efforts.” They added, “The Arabic media supported us much more than the Iraqi media which at the time was only focusing on the political affairs. That was the Iraqi media focus.” It was nothing personal but they left out the personal interest or focus on the life and likes of the people. Many of the secular or public stations in Iraq were shut down during the war. All that was left was the government owned media stations.

A series of smart collaborations In 2006 after a move back to Jordan, they met composer and friend Talal Guenzar. Together, they recorded a beautiful song “Jamila”. It was a softer side of them that crossed over to many music lovers. UTN1 have achieved huge success in the Middle East media center of Lebanon and the Arab countries. It became a number one hit in 2007 in the Middle East and their first major hit. Their success was building off of the momentum

‫ﺍﻻﻣﻮﺭ ﻭﻻ ﻧﻌﻠﻢ ﺃﻥ ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﻣﺴﺘﻘﺒﻞ ﺃﻣﺎﻣﻬﻢ‪ .‬ﻫﺬﺍ ﻟﻴﺲ ﺻﺤﻴﺤﺎ‪،‬‬ ‫ﻭﻧﺤﻦ ﻳﺠﺐ ﺃﻥ ﻧﻜﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﻔﻨﺎﻧﻴﻦ ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ ﺍﻟﺬﻳﻦ ﻳﺤﺪﺛﻮﺍ ﺍﻟﺘﻐﻴﻴﺮ‪" .‬‬ ‫" ﻫﺪﻓﻨﺎ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ‪ .‬ﻭﻧﺤﻦ ﻻ ﻧﺮﻯ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ ﻓﻲ ﺑﻠﺪﻧﺎ ﺍﻟﺤﺒﻴﺐ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ‬ ‫ﻣﻨﺬ ﺃﻥ ﻭﻟﺪﻧﺎ‪ .‬ﺣﺘﻰ ﻳﻮﻣﻨﺎ ﻫﺬﺍ‪ ،‬ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﻛﻞ ﻭﺍﻟﺤﺮﻭﺏ ﺍﻟﻄﺎﺋﻔﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻟﻤﻤﺎﻃﻠﺔ ﻭ ﺍﻟﺤﺪﻳﺚ ﻃﺎﻝ ﻋﻦ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﻛﻞ‪ .‬ﻧﺄﻣﻞ ﺃﻥ ﻳﻜﻮﻥ‬ ‫ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﺣﻞ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻤﺴﺘﻘﺒﻞ ﺍﻟﻘﺮﻳﺐ ‪.‬‬

‫ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻧﺠﺎﺡ ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ‬

‫ﺇﺳﺘﻤﺮ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻓﻲ ﺣﺼﺪ ﺍﻟﻨﺠﺎﺣﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻮﺍﺣﺪﺓ ﺗﻠﻮ ﺍﻻﺧﺮﻯ ﻭﻗﺪ‬ ‫ﺍﺗﺴﻌﺖ ﻗﺎﻋﺪﺗﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﺠﻤﺎﻫﻴﺮﻳﺔ ﺣﻮﻝ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﺧﺼﻮﺻﺎ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻥ ﻗﺎﻣﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﺑﺠﻮﻟﺔ ﻓﻨﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻮﻻﻳﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪﺓ ﺍﻻﻣﺮﻳﻜﻴﺔ ﻭﺗﻮﻗﻔﻮﺍ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺪﻥ ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﻟﻨﺸﺮ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﺎﻫﻢ ﻭﺭﺳﺎﻟﺘﻬﻢ ﺍﻻﻧﺴﺎﻧﻴﺔ ‪ .‬ﺗﻮﻗﻔﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻛﺎﻟﻔﻮﺭﻧﻴﺎ ﻭﻓﺮﺟﻴﻨﻴﺎ ﻭﺍﻳﺮﺯﻭﻧﺎ ﻭﻧﻴﻮﻳﻮﺭﻙ ﻻﻗﺎﻣﺔ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺤﻔﻼﺕ‪ .‬ﻗﺎﻡ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺑﺘﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺍﻏﻨﻴﺔ "ﺳﻼﻡ ﺷﺒﺎﺏ" ﻓﻲ ﻛﻞ ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﺷﻨﻄﻦ ﻭﺑﻐﺪﺍﺩ ﻭﻣﻦ ﺍﺧﺮﺍﺝ ﻳﺎﺳﺮ ﻣﻨﻌﻢ ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪. 2013‬‬ ‫ﻛﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺍﺣﺪ‪ ،‬ﺍﺷﺘﻤﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻄﻮﺍﺋﻒ ﻭﺍﻷﺩﻳﺎﻥ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺘﻠﻔﺔ ﻻﻋﻀﺎﺋﻪ‪ .‬ﺇﻧﻬﻢ ﻳﺮﻳﺪﻭﻥ ﺃﻥ ﻳﺜﺒﺘﻮﺍ ﻟﻠﻨﺎﺱ ﺃﻥ ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻳﺶ‬ ‫ﻣﻊ ﺍﻵﺧﺮﻳﻦ ﻫﻮ ﺍﻟﺤﻞ‪ .‬ﻭﻛﺎﻥ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺑﻤﺜﺎﺑﻪ ﺍﻟﻀﻮء ﺍﻟﺬﻱ‬ ‫ﻳﻈﻬﺮ ﻟﻠﻨﺎﺱ ﺍﻧﻬﻢ ﻳﺴﺘﻄﻴﻌﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻳﺶ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻻﺣﺘﺮﺍﻡ‪.‬‬ ‫"ﻧﺤﻦ ﺃﺻﻼ ﻟﻢ ﻧﺮﻯ ﻓﻲ ﺫﻟﻚ ﻣﺸﻜﻠﺔ‪ .‬ﻧﺤﻦ ﻟﻢ ﻧﺴﺄﻝ ﺍﻱ ﺻﺪﻳﻖ‬ ‫ﻋﻦ ﺩﻳﻨﻪ ﺍﻭ ﻃﺎﺋﻔﺘﻪ‪ .‬ﻻ ﻳﻬﻢ ﻣﺎ ﻫﻮ ﺍﻟﺪﻳﻦ ﺃﻭ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﻕ ﺃﻭ ﺍﻟﻄﺎﺋﻔﺔ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﻲء ﺍﻟﻤﻬﻢ ﻫﻮ ﺃﻥ ﺗﻜﻮﻥ ﺍﻧﺴﺎﻧﺎ‪ ،‬ﻭﻛﻴﻒ ﻳﻨﻌﻜﺲ ﺫﻟﻚ ﻋﻠﻰ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﺨﺼﻴﺔ‪ .‬ﻧﻨﻈﺮ ﻟﻠﺤﻘﻮﻕ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺃﺳﺎﺱ ﺍﻷﺧﻼﻕ ﻭﺍﻹﻧﺴﺎﻧﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﻭﻟﻴﺲ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺃﺳﺎﺱ ﺍﻟﺪﻳﻦ ﺃﻭ ﺍﻟﻤﺬﻫﺐ ﺃﻭ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﻕ "‪.‬‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻧﺠﺢ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺣﺪ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ ﺑﻴﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻕ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ‬ ‫ﺍﻷﻭﺳﻂ‪ ،‬ﻟﻴﺲ ﻓﻘﻂ ﺑﺴﺒﺐ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﺎﻫﻢ ﻭﻟﻜﻦ ﺃﻳﻀﺎ ﻓﻠﺴﻔﺘﻬﻢ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺃﺻﺒﺢ ‪ UTN1‬ﺍﻟﻤﺜﺎﻝ ﻟﻠﻜﺜﻴﺮﻳﻦ‪ ،‬ﻭﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ ﻗﺎﺩﺭﻳﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺗﻘﺪﻳﻢ‬ ‫ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺘﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﻮﺍﺿﺤﺔ ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻲ‪ .‬ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻲ ﻳﻨﻈﺮ‬ ‫ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﺼﺮﺍﻉ ﻓﻘﻂ ﻭ ﻻ ﻳﺘﺨﻴﻞ ﺃﻥ ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﺗﻌﺎﻳﺶ ﺑﻴﻦ ﺍﻟﻄﻮﺍﺋﻒ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻟﻘﺒﺎﺋﻞ ﺑﻘﺪﺭ ﻣﺎ ﻛﺎﻥ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺷﺎﺷﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﺘﻠﻔﺰﻳﻮﻥ ﻣﻦ ﺟﺮﺍﺋﻢ ﺍﻟﻘﺘﻞ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻟﺘﻔﺠﻴﺮﺍﺕ ﺃﻭ ﻗﻄﻊ ﺍﻟﺮﺅﻭﺱ ﺑﺴﺒﺐ ﺍﻻﻧﻘﺴﺎﻡ ﺍﻟﻄﺎﺋﻔﻲ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺣﺎﻭﻝ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺍﻥ ﻳﺒﺬﻝ ﻛﻞ ﻣﺎ ﺑﻮﺳﻌﻬﻢ ﻟﻤﺤﺎﺭﺑﻪ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﺠﻬﻞ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻨﺎﺟﻢ ﻋﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺤﺎﺻﺼﺔ ﺍﻟﻄﺎﺋﻔﻴﺔ ﻭﻋﻤﻠﻮﺍ ﺑﺠﺪﻳﺔ ﻟﺘﻘﺪﻳﻢ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺘﻬﻢ‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻳﺶ ﺑﺴﻼﻡ ﻭﻳﻈﻬﺮ ﺫﻟﻚ ﻓﻲ ﻟﻘﺎءﺍﺗﻬﻢ ﻣﻊ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻻﻋﻼﻡ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻳﻘﻮﻝ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ"ﻓﻌﻠﻨﺎ ﺃﻱ ﺷﻲء ﺑﻤﻘﺪﻭﺭﻧﺎ ﺍﻟﻘﻴﺎﻡ ﺑﻪ‪ ،‬ﻓﻌﻠﻨﺎ ﺫﻟﻚ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﻤﺴﺎﻫﻤﺔ ﻓﻲ ﻣﻜﺎﻓﺤﺔ ﺍﻟﻄﺎﺋﻔﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﺘﻲ ﻫﻲ ﺃﺳﺎﺱ ﻟﺘﺪﻣﻴﺮ ﻭﻃﻨﻨﺎ"‪.‬‬ ‫ﻭﻗﺎﻝ "ﻧﺤﻦ ﻧﻌﻠﻢ ﺃﻥ ﺍﻟﻈﺮﻭﻑ ﺍﻟﺼﻌﺒﺔ ﻟﻠﺤﺮﺏ ﻳﻤﻜﻦ ﺃﻥ ﺗﻌﻄﻴﻚ‬ ‫ﺩﻓﻌﺔ ﻛﺒﻴﺮﺓ ﻟﺘﻜﻮﻥ ﻣﺒﺪﻋﺎ ﻭﺃﻥ ﺗﻜﻮﻥ ﺷﺨﺼﺎ ﻗﻮﻳﺎ" ﻭﺃﺿﺎﻑ‪،‬‬ ‫"ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻭﺍﺣﺪﺓ ﻣﻦ ﺃﻏﺎﻧﻴﻨﺎ ﺍﻷﻛﺜﺮ ﻧﺠﺎﺣﺎ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻠﻐﺔ ﺍﻹﻧﺠﻠﻴﺰﻳﺔ‬ ‫ﻫﻲ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ " ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ "‪ .‬ﻓﻬﻲ ﺗﺘﺤﺪﺙ ﻋﻦ ﺯﻭﺟﺔ ﻋﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ ﺗﻮﺩﻉ‬ ‫ﺯﻭﺟﻬﺎ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﺠﻪ ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ‪" .‬ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﺃﺧﺮﻯ ﻧﺎﺟﺤﺔ ﻫﻲ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﻋﻦ ﺍﻷﻣﻞ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ‪ .‬ﻭﻗﺪ ﻛﺘﺒﺖ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ ﺍﻹﻧﺠﻠﻴﺰﻳﺔ ‪ ،‬ﺗﺤﻤﻞ‬ ‫ﻋﻨﻮﺍﻥ "ﺍﻟﺘﻤﺴﻚ"‪.‬‬

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‫‪what was a lot of displaced youth in the Iraq. Like many families‬‬ ‫‪with children or teenagers, many Iraq families moved to new‬‬ ‫‪safer places to raise their families. As a result, the new immigrants‬‬ ‫‪brought a love of Iraq with them, mixed it with the new environ‬‬‫‪ment and introduced the new rock band to their neighbors. The‬‬ ‫‪song also showed the group in a very positive light to Iraqi youth‬‬ ‫‪outside the country and in Western world propelling a lot of‬‬ ‫‪curiosity about the band in Western media. The Arabic Channel‬‬ ‫‪Alaan TV or “Now TV” became a sponsor for the group. Because‬‬ ‫‪of this sponsorship, the band was able to make three music vid‬‬‫‪eos that got a great deal of visibility.‬‬ ‫‪The air time put them into the forefront of people’s conscious‬‬‫‪ness. The band was very grateful for it’s supporting their efforts.‬‬ ‫‪Without it, the success of UTN1 otherwise would not have hap‬‬‫‪pened. They were able to complete a dream of taking the album‬‬ ‫‪on tour. They participated in numerous festivals but the biggest‬‬ ‫‪break came with playing at one of Europe’s most prestigious‬‬ ‫‪music festivals. The World Peace Festival in Switzerland provided‬‬ ‫‪a lot of exposure particularly because they were the only Arab‬‬ ‫‪artists in the festival line up at the time in 2009. The second col‬‬‫‪laboration came later with composer Talal Kantar. They filmed the‬‬ ‫”‪song for a video “Alaan Ahibik Akthar” or “Now I love you more,‬‬ ‫‪which served as a thank you for the Alaan TV Channel.‬‬ ‫‪UTN1 was exposed to working with famous names, movers‬‬ ‫‪and shakers in Middle East. Many of the directors, producers‬‬ ‫‪and editors were able to give a “look” to the group that was not‬‬ ‫‪seen in the Middle East up to that point.‬‬ ‫‪Because of the successes and feedback, they were paired with‬‬ ‫”‪Egyptian director Mazen Saeed to film the song “Tetdhakareen‬‬ ‫‪or “Do you Remember” with from an Arab and English mix album.‬‬ ‫‪“Do you Remember” became one of their standout numbers with‬‬

‫‪UTN1 has become a band that is the voice of‬‬ ‫‪Iraq that offers hope for the future of the country.‬‬

‫ﻷﻧﻬﻢ ﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ ﺍﻟﻔﻨﺎﻧﻴﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺏ ﺍﻟﻮﺣﻴﺪﻳﻦ ﻓﻲ ﺗﺸﻜﻴﻠﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﻬﺮﺟﺎﻥ‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﺫﻟﻚ ﺍﻟﻮﻗﺖ ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ .2009‬ﺛﻢ ﺟﺎء ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻭﻥ ﺍﻟﺜﺎﻧﻲ ﻻﺣﻘﺎ‬ ‫ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﻠﺤﻦ ﻃﻼﻝ ﺍﻟﻘﻨﻄﺎﺭ ﻭﻗﺎﻡ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺑﺘﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺍﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺓ‬ ‫"ﺍﻵﻥ ﺃﺣﺒﻚ ﺃﻛﺜﺮ"‪ ،‬ﻭﺍﻟﺬﻱ ﻛﺎﻥ ﺑﻤﺜﺎﺑﺔ ﺷﻜﺮ ﻟﻘﻨﺎﺓ ﺍﻵﻥ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺍﻧﺪﻓﻊ ﻓﺮﻳﻖ ‪ UTN1‬ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻷﺳﻤﺎء ﺍﻟﺸﻬﻴﺮﺓ‪.‬ﻭﻧﻈﺮﺍ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﻨﺠﺎﺣﺎﺕ ﻭﺭﺩﻭﺩ ﺍﻟﻔﻌﻞ ﺍﻻﻳﺠﺎﺑﻴﺔ ‪ ،‬ﺗﻌﺎﻭﻧﻮﺍ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺮﺝ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﺼﺮﻱ ﻣﺎﺯﻥ ﺳﻌﻴﺪ ﻟﺘﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ " ﺗﺘﺬﻛﺮﻳﻦ "ﻣﻦ ﺃﻟﺒﻮﻣﻬﻢ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺼﺎﺩﺭ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺘﻴﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻭﺍﻹﻧﺠﻠﻴﺰﻳﺔ ‪.‬‬ ‫"ﺗﺘﺬﻛﺮﻳﻦ" ﺃﺻﺒﺤﺖ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺼﺪﺍﺭﺓ ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ ،2011‬ﻟﻴﺲ ﻓﻘﻂ‬ ‫ﺑﺴﺒﺐ ﺗﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺍﻷﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻭﻟﻜﻦ ﺃﻳﻀﺎ ﻣﻦ ﻧﺎﺣﻴﺔ ﺍﻻﺳﻠﻮﺏ ﺣﻴﺚ‬ ‫ﻗﺎﻣﻮﺍ ﺑﺘﻐﻴﻴﺮ ﻧﻤﻂ ﺍﻟﻐﻨﺎء ﻭﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻻﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻓﺄﺻﺒﺤﻮﺍ ﺍﻛﺜﺮ‬ ‫ﺗﺄﺛﻴﺮﺍ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻻﺩﺍء ﻭﻭﻇﻔﻮﺍ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ﺑﺸﻜﻞ ﻣﺘﻤﻴﺰ‬ ‫ﻭﻣﺨﺘﻠﻒ ﻭﻗﺪ ﺣﺼﻞ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﻨﻤﻂ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻜﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺜﻨﺎء ﻭ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﻋﺠﺎﺏ‪ .‬ﻭﻫﻢ ﺍﻵﻥ ﺃﻭﻝ ﻓﺮﻗﺔ ﺭﻭﻙ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﻭﻗﺪ ﺗﻐﻴﺮ ﻧﻤﻂ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺒﻮﺏ ﺭﻭﻙ ﻛﻤﺎ ﺗﻐﻴﺮﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﻤﻌﺎﺻﺮﺓ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻳﺪﻳﻬﻢ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺃﺻﺒﺢ ‪ UTN1‬ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺍﻻﻭﻝ ﺍﻟﺬﻱ ﻳﻤﺜﻞ ﺻﻮﺕ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﻨﺎﺩﻱ ﻟﺘﻮﻓﻴﺮ ﺍﻷﻣﻞ ﻟﻤﺴﺘﻘﺒﻞ ﺍﻟﺒﻼﺩ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ ،2011‬ﺗﻌﺎﻭﻥ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺮﺝ ﺍﻟﻠﺒﻨﺎﻧﻲ ﺭﻭﺑﻲ‬ ‫ﻣﺎﻟﻚ ﻟﺘﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ "ﺑﺪﻱ ﻗﻮﻝ" ﻣﻦ ﻛﻠﻤﺎﺕ ﻭﺃﻟﺤﺎﻥ ﺳﻤﺎﺭﺓ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺰﺍﻭﻱ‪ .‬ﻗﺎﻡ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺑﺘﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﻔﻴﺪﻳﻮ ﻓﻲ ﺷﻮﺍﺭﻉ ﻣﺪﻳﻨﺔ‬ ‫ﻧﻴﻮﻳﻮﺭﻙ‪ ،‬ﻭﺍﻧﻄﻠﻖ ﺇﻟﻰ ﺭﻗﻢ ‪ 1‬ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ ﺍﻷﻭﺳﻂ‪.‬‬

‫‪lots of success in 2011, not only for the song but also stylistically they‬‬ ‫‪had changed the way they sound and look. It is artistically beautifully‬‬ ‫‪done and also the sound of their music became less soft rock and‬‬ ‫‪more edgy in performance. This new style has gotten received much‬‬ ‫‪praise as it feels on target for today. They were once the first pop rock‬‬ ‫‪boy band for Iraq, they are now the first rock band for Iraq. The soft‬‬ ‫‪pop-rock style has changed as contemporary music has changed.‬‬ ‫‪UTN1 has become a band that is the voice of Iraq that offers hope for‬‬ ‫‪the future of the country.‬‬

‫ﻳﻘﻮﻝ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ "ﻋﻨﺪﻣﺎ ﺍﻧﺘﻬﻰ ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻭﻥ ﻣﻊ ﻣﻨﻈﻤﺔ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ‬ ‫ﺍﻷﻣﺮﻳﻜﻴﺔ ﻭﻏﺎﺩﺭﺕ ‪ ،‬ﻗﻤﻨﺎ ﺑﺘﺄﻟﻴﻒ ﺍﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ ﻟﺒﺮﺍﻣﺞ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ‪ .‬ﻭﺟﺎء ﺟﺰء ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﻤﻞ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻹﻟﻬﺎﻡ ﻣﻦ ﺃﻋﻤﺎﻝ ﻣﻊ ﻧﻔﺲ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﻨﻮﺍﻥ ﻟﻠﻔﻨﺎﻥ ﻧﻮﻓﺎ ﻋﻤﺎﺩ‪،.‬ﻭﺗﺼﻮﻳﺮﻩ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺮﺝ ﺍﻟﻤﺼﺮﻱ‬ ‫ﻳﺎﺳﺮ ﻣﻨﻌﻢ‪ .‬ﺍﻷﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻫﻲ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺔ ﻭﺩﻋﻮﺓ ﻟﻠﺴﻼﻡ ﻟﺠﻤﻴﻊ ﺩﻭﻝ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ‪.‬ﻭﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻟﻬﺎ ﺃﻫﻤﻴﺔ ﺧﺎﺻﺔ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻷﺣﺪﺍﺙ ﺍﻷﺧﻴﺮﺓ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﻭﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻲ‪ .‬ﻭﻛﺎﻥ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻗﺎﺩﺭ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻧﻘﻞ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺔ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﻛﻠﻪ ﻋﻦ ﺍﻟﺤﺐ ﻭ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ ﺑﻄﺮﻳﻘﺔ ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ﺍﻟﻤﻌﺎﺻﺮﺓ‪.‬‬

‫ﺗﺠﺎﺭﺏ ﻣﺘﻮﺍﺿﻌﺔ ﻣﻎ ﺍﻻﺳﺘﻤﺮﺍﺭ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺘﺮﻛﻴﺰ‬

‫‪In 2011, Lebanese director Ruby Malek came on board to film‬‬ ‫‪the song “Baddy Oul” or “I want to say,” with lyrics and music com‬‬‫‪posed by Samara Azzawi. UTN1 filmed this video on the streets of‬‬ ‫‪New York City and rocketed to number 1 in the Middle East.‬‬

‫"ﺑﻌﺪ ﻛﻞ ﻣﺎ ﺫﻛﺮﻧﺎ‪ ،‬ﻣﺎ ﻧﺮﻳﺪ ﻗﻮﻟﻪ ﻫﻮ ﺃﻥ ﻛﻞ ﺷﺨﺺ ﻳﺮﻳﺪ‬ ‫ﺗﺤﻘﻴﻖ ﻫﺪﻑ ﺃﻭ ﻃﻤﻮﺡ ﻳﺠﺐ ﺃﻥ ﻳﺴﻌﻰ ﺇﻟﻴﻪ‪ .‬ﻻ ﺗﺴﺘﺴﻠﻢ ﻣﻬﻤﺎ‬ ‫ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﻈﺮﻭﻑ ﺻﻌﺒﺔ " ﻳﻘﻮﻝ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‪.‬‬

‫‪“When the cooperation with the US peace organization and ended‬‬ ‫‪and they left, we composed a song of peace for the youth programs.‬‬ ‫‪Part of the work came from inspiration from works with same title of‬‬ ‫‪the artist Nova Emad. Working with the group, they composed and‬‬ ‫‪filmed with Egyptian director Yasser Menem a new work to symbolize‬‬ ‫‪the song. The song is a message and a call for peace for all the world.‬‬ ‫‪It has special significance after the recent events in Iraq and the Arab‬‬ ‫‪world. The group was able to convey a message to the whole world‬‬ ‫‪about love, peace and understand but done in a contemporary rock‬‬ ‫‪way. It touches audiences that would typically not pay attention.‬‬

‫ﻭ ﺍﺿﺎﻓﻮﺍ "ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺗﻔﺘﺢ ﺍﻟﺒﺎﺏ ﻟﻠﺴﻼﻡ‪ .‬ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺗﺤﺚ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﺴﻌﻲ ﻟﺘﺤﻘﻴﻖ ﻫﺪﻑ ﺃﻭ ﺣﻠﻢ ﻭﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺿﻮﻋﺎﺕ‬ ‫ﻧﺠﺪﻫﺎ ﻓﻲ ﻛﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻷﺣﻴﺎﻥ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻷﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻴﺔ‪ .‬ﺃﺭﺩﻧﺎ ﻟﻬﺎ ﺃﻥ‬ ‫ﺗﻜﻮﻥ ﻓﻲ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﺎﻧﺎ ﻛﺬﻟﻚ‪ .‬ﻷﻧﻨﺎ ﻛﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺍﺣﺪ ﻋﺸﻨﺎ ﺣﻴﺎﺓ ﺻﻌﺒﺔ‬ ‫ﺧﻼﻝ ﻓﺘﺮﺗﻴﻦ ﺯﻣﻨﻴﺘﻴﻦ ﺗﺨﺘﻠﻒ ﺍﺧﺘﻼﻓﺎ ﻭﺍﺿﺤﺎ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ‪،‬‬ ‫ﺷﻬﺪﻧﺎ ﺍﻟﻜﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﻌﺎﻧﺎﺓ‪ .‬ﻟﻘﺪ ﻋﺎﻧﻴﻨﺎ ﻛﺜﻴﺮﺍ ﻓﻲ ﺃﻭﺿﺎﻋﻨﺎ ﻛﻤﺎ‬ ‫ﻓﻌﻞ ﺟﻤﻴﻊ ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ ﻭﺫﻟﻚ ﻣﻦ ﻭﺍﺟﺒﻨﺎ ﺃﻥ ﻧﻘﺪﻡ ﺷﻴﺌﺎ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺑﺒﺴﺎﻃﺔ ﺣﺎﺟﺘﻨﺎ ﺇﻟﻰ ﻣﺴﺎﻋﺪﺓ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﺸﻌﺐ ﻣﻊ ﺇﻳﺼﺎﻝ‬ ‫ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺔ ﺇﻳﺠﺎﺑﻴﺔ ﺣﻴﺚ ﻳﺘﻌﺮﺽ ﻛﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻨﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﻴﺄﺱ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺤﻴﺎﺓ ﻣﻊ‬ ‫ﺣﻴﺎﺓ ﻛﺎﻣﻠﺔ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻷﺳﻒ ﻓﻬﻢ ﻟﻴﺴﻮﺍ ﻗﺎﺩﺭﻳﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺗﻮﻗﻊ ﺍﻟﻘﺎﺩﻡ ﻣﻦ‬

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‫ﻻ ﺧﻴﺎﺭ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺒﻘﺎء ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ‪.‬ﺍﻧﺘﻘﻞ ﺃﻋﻀﺎء ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻕ ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻷﺭﺩﻥ‬ ‫ﻭﻣﻦ ﺛﻢ ﺇﻟﻰ ﻟﻨﺪﻥ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ ،2005‬ﻛﺎﻥ ﻋﻨﻮﺍﻥ ﺃﺣﺪ ﺍﻷﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺍﻟﺘﻲ ﺗﻢ ﺗﺴﺠﻴﻠﻬﺎ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﺑﺮﻳﻄﺎﻧﻴﺎ "ﻣﺎ ﺩﻣﻨﺎ ﻧﺴﺘﻄﻴﻊ"‪ .‬ﺍﻧﻄﻠﻘﺖ ﺍﻻﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪2006‬‬ ‫ﻭﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺃﻭﻝ ﺇﻧﻄﻼﻗﺔ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﺴﺘﻮﻯ ﺍﻟﻐﻨﺎء ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻤﻲ ﻟﻠﻔﺮﻳﻖ ‪.‬‬ ‫ﺗﺤﺪﺛﺖ ﺍﻻﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻋﻦ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ ﻭﺗﻢ ﺑﺜﻬﺎ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺤﻄﺎﺕ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺘﻠﻔﺰﻳﻮﻧﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻭﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ ﺍﻷﻭﺳﻂ ﻭﺍﻟﻘﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﺍﻷﺟﻨﺒﻴﺔ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻭﺃﺛﺒﺖ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺍﻧﻪ ﻗﺎﺩﺭ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻧﻘﻞ ﺭﺳﺎﻟﺔ ﻟﻠﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﻛﻠﻪ ‪ -‬ﺣﻮﻝ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﻴﺶ ﻓﻲ ﺳﻼﻡ ﻭﻭﺋﺎﻡ ﺑﻴﻦ ﺛﻘﺎﻓﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻔﺘﺮﺓ ﺗﺤﺪﻳﺪﺍً ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﻜﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻟﺼﺤﻒ ﻭﻗﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﺍﻟﺘﻠﻔﺰﻳﻮﻥ ﻭﺍﻟﺮﺍﺩﻳﻮ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﺗﺮﻛﺰ ﻋﻠﻰ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﺆﻭﻥ ﺍﻟﺴﻴﺎﺳﻴﺔ ﻭﺍﻟﺤﻜﻮﻣﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻭﺍﻻﻧﺘﺨﺎﺑﺎﺕ‪. .‬‬ ‫‪ .‬ﻭﺃﺿﺎﻓﻮﺍ‪ ":‬ﻛﺎﻥ ﺩﻋﻢ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻟﻨﺎ ﺃﻛﺜﺮ ﺑﻜﺜﻴﺮ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻮﻗﺖ ﺍﻟﺬﻱ ﺗﻢ ﺍﻟﺘﺮﻛﻴﺰ ﻓﻴﻪ‬ ‫ﻓﻘﻂ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﺸﺆﻭﻥ ﺍﻟﺴﻴﺎﺳﻴﺔ‪ .‬ﻭﻛﺎﻥ ﺫﻟﻚ ﻫﻮ ﺗﺮﻛﻴﺰ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ‬ ‫ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ‪ " .‬ﻟﻴﺲ ﻟﺪﻳﻨﺎ ﺍﻱ ﺷﺄﻥ ﺷﺨﺼﻲ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻘﻨﻮﺍﺕ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ ﻭﻟﻜﻦ ﻫﺬﺍ ﻫﻮ ﻭﺍﻗﻊ ﺍﻟﺤﺎﻝ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻥ ﺍﻏﻠﻘﺖ ﺍﻟﻜﺜﻴﺮ ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻘﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﻭﺍﻟﻤﺤﻄﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻌﻠﻤﺎﻧﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺒﻠﺪ ﺃﻭ ﺗﻢ ﺗﺴﺨﻴﺮﻫﺎ ﻓﻘﻂ‬ ‫ﻟﺘﻐﻄﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﺸﺆﻭﻥ ﺍﻟﺴﻴﺎﺳﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ‪..‬‬

‫ﺳﻠﺴﻠﺔ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﺭﻛﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﺬﻛﻴﺔ‬

‫"ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ 2006‬ﺃﺗﻴﺤﺖ ﻟﻨﺎ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﺻﺔ ﺑﺄﻥ ﻧﻌﻤﻞ ﻓﻲ ﻟﺒﻨﺎﻥ ‪.‬‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﺷﻜﻼ‬ ‫ﺩﻋﻤﺘﻨﺎ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻠﺒﻨﺎﻧﻴﺔ ﺑﺸﻜﻞ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ" ﻣﻤﺎ ﺍﺿﺎﻑ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺍً‬ ‫ﻭﺫﻛﻴﺎ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺘﻌﺎﻭﻥ ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ 2006‬ﺑﻌﺪ ﺧﻄﻮﺓ ﺇﻟﻰ ﺍﻷﺭﺩﻥ‪ ،‬ﺍﺟﺘﻤﻌﻮﺍ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﻤﻠﺤﻦ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻟﺼﺪﻳﻖ ﻃﻼﻝ ﻗﻨﻄﺎﺭ‪ ،‬ﻭﻗﺎﻣﻮﺍ ﺑﺘﺴﺠﻴﻞ ﺃﻏﻨﻴﺔ "ﺟﻤﻴﻠﺔ"‪.‬‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻧﺠﺎﺣﺎ ﻛﺒﻴﺮﺍً ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ ﺍﻻﻭﺳﻂ ﻭﺍﻟﺪﻭﻝ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺣﻘﻖ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﺧﺼﻮﺻﺎ ﻓﻲ ﻟﺒﻨﺎﻥ ‪ .‬ﻛﺎﻥ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻫﻢ ﺍﺳﺒﺎﺏ ﻧﺠﺎﺡ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻓﻲ ﻫﺬﻩ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻔﺘﺮﺓ ﻫﻮ ﻣﻮﺟﺔ ﺍﻟﻬﺠﺮﺓ ﻭﺍﻟﻨﺰﻭﺡ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﺧﺼﻮﺻﺎً‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ ‪.‬ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ 2007‬ﻭ ﻓﻲ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻔﺘﺮﺓ ﺍﻧﺘﻘﻠﺖ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﺍﻷﺳﺮ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺍﻣﺎﻛﻦ ﺍﻛﺜﺮ ً‬ ‫ﺍﻣﻨﺎ ﻭﻧﺘﻴﺠﺔ ﻟﺬﻟﻚ ﺟﻠﺐ ﺍﻟﻬﺎﺟﺮﻳﻦ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﺩ‬ ‫ﺣﺐ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﻣﻌﻬﻢ ﻭ ﺍﺧﺘﻠﻄﻮﺍ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﺒﻴﺌﺔ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻭﻋﺮﺿﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻟﺠﻴﺮﺍﻧﻬﻢ ﻭﺍﺻﺪﻗﺎﺋﻬﻢ ‪ .‬ﺃﻇﻬﺮﺕ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﺠﻤﺎﻋﻴﺔ ﺻﻮﺭﺓ ﺍﻳﺠﺎﺑﻴﺔ ﻟﻠﺸﺒﺎﺏ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﻴﻦ ﺧﺎﺭﺝ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺒﻼﺩ ﻭﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻲ ﺣﻴﺚ ﺩﻓﻌﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﻔﻀﻮﻝ ﻟﻤﻌﺮﻓﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﺰﻳﺪ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻭﺧﺼﻮﺻﺎ ﻓﻲ ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻻﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻴﺔ‪ .‬ﺍﺣﺪﻯ‬ ‫ﻋﻦ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻘﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻭﺍﺳﻤﻬﺎ ﺍﻵﻥ ﺍﺻﺒﺤﺖ ﺭﺍﻋﻴﺎ ﻟﻠﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺑﺴﺒﺐ‬ ‫ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﺮﻋﺎﻳﺔ ﻛﺎﻥ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻗﺎﺩﺭﺍً ﻋﻠﻰ ﺗﺼﻮﻳﺮ ﺛﻼﺙ ﻓﻴﺪﻳﻮﻫﺎﺕ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻭﺍﻳﻀﺎ ﺍﺻﺪﺍﺭ ﺍﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﻭﺿﻌﻪ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻄﻠﻴﻌﺔ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻻﻏﺎﻧﻴﻬﻢ‬ ‫ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻗﺔ ﻣﻤﺘﻨﺔ ﺟﺪ ﻟﻘﻨﺎﺓ ﺍﻵﻥ ﻻﻧﻬﺎ ﺗﺪﻋﻢ ﺟﻬﻮﺩﻫﻢ‪ .‬ﻭﺑﺪﻭﻥ‬ ‫ﺫﻟﻚ‪ ،‬ﻓﺈﻥ ﻧﺠﺎﺣﻬﻢ ﻟﻢ ﻳﻜﻦ ﻟﻴﺤﺪﺙ ‪ .‬ﺑﻔﻀﻞ ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﺮﻋﺎﻳﺔ ﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﻗﺎﺩﺭﻳﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺇﻛﻤﺎﻝ ﺣﻠﻢ ﺃﺧﺬ ﺍﻷﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﻓﻲ ﺟﻮﻟﺔ‪ .‬ﺷﺎﺭﻙ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﻬﺮﺟﺎﻧﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ﻭﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ ﻳﺤﺼﺪﻭﻥ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﻋﺠﺎﺏ ﻭﺍﻻﺣﺘﺮﺍﻡ ﻻﻋﻤﺎﻟﻬﻢ ﻟﻜﻦ ﺍﻟﻤﺸﺎﺭﻛﺔ ﺍﻻﻛﺒﺮ ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﻭﺍﺣﺪﺓ ﻣﻦ ﺃﻛﺜﺮ ﺍﻟﻤﻬﺮﺟﺎﻧﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﺮﻣﻮﻗﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺃﻭﺭﻭﺑﺎ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻗﺪﻣﻬﻢ ﻣﻬﺮﺟﺎﻥ ﺍﻟﺴﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻟﻤﻲ ﻓﻲ ﺳﻮﻳﺴﺮﺍ ﺑﺸﻜﻞ ﺧﺎﺹ‬

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‫‪Humbling experiences and keeping focus‬‬ ‫‪The group keeps the idea of success in perspective. They are‬‬ ‫‪honest and sincere when talking about how far they have come‬‬ ‫‪and what it means to be “a success”.‬‬ ‫‪“After all that we have stated, what we want to say is that every‬‬ ‫‪person who wants to achieve a goal or ambition must seek it. Do‬‬ ‫”‪not give up no matter how difficult the circumstances.‬‬ ‫‪They continue. “Music opens up the door for Peace. Music‬‬ ‫‪urges young people to strive for a goal or achieving a dream‬‬ ‫‪and these topics are often in the western songs. We wanted‬‬ ‫‪them to be in our music as well. These themes were on the first‬‬ ‫‪album and the last. Because we as a team we have lived a hard‬‬ ‫‪life and lived through two distinctly different time periods in Iraq,‬‬ ‫‪we have seen much suffering. We suffered much in our situations‬‬ ‫‪as did all Iraqi youth and so it is our duty to offer something. It‬‬ ‫‪was simply our need to help this people with a positive message‬‬ ‫‪at a group and age that is very impressionable with the situa‬‬‫‪tions. Many of them experience despair of life with a life full of‬‬ ‫‪regret. They are not able to be seen and don’t know there is a‬‬ ‫‪future in front of them. This is not right and we must be the type‬‬ ‫”‪of young artists that bring change.‬‬

“Peace. We did not see peace in our beloved Iraq since we were born. To this very day, problems and sectarian wars and stall overdue talk about these problems. We hope that there will be a solution in the near future.”

Working to make it work The size of their audience has now increased since they crossed the pond from Europe to the US. They have found a world size audience. Touring through the US with stops in California, Arizona, New York and Virginia in 2013, they pulled together to film May 2013, released their video clip of the song “Salam Shabab” or “Peace for the Young” Directed by Yasser Munem, the clip was shot and directed in both Washington DC and Baghdad.

As a team, they are made up of many denominations and different religions. They want to prove to people that coexistence with the others is the solution. The band has been a beacon that shows people can co-exist with respect.

“We originally were not see this as a problem. We did not ask a friend what is his community was or his religion. It does not matter what is the religion is or their ethnicity or sect. The important thing is that are human and how their character is reflected. We look at rights based on morals and humanity and not on the basis of religion, sect or ethnicity.”

The band stands out from many Middle Eastern bands, not only because of their music but also their philosophy. UTN1 became the example to many and has been able to make their message clear to the Western world. Western media looks at conflict and doesn’t typically view cooperation as something that is attainable. They do not imagine that there is a coexistence with some based off the message of what has been seen on the television screens with murders, bombings or beheadings because of sectarian divide.

They made it. They offer all that they can to fight this ignorance brought on from sectarian and work hard at delivering their message of coexistence with meetings with the media.

“Anything in our ability to do, we do so to contribute to the fight against sectarianism which is the basis of the destruction of our homeland.” UTN1 said.

UTN1 has come a long way to put their name on the music charts in Middle East. They transform the suffering of war into their songs and created a new hope with a rock style of music.

“We know that the hard conditions of the war can give you a great push to be creative and to be a strong person,” UTN1 said and added, “one of our most successful songs in English was ‘War’. It talks about an Iraqi wife saying goodbye to her husband who is heading off to war.” Another one of their successful hits is a song about hope after war. It was written in English is titled “Hold On”.

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Changing as the world changes In a world and environment that changing rapidly, there are many problems that UTN1 has tried to address that in their songs or their music message. The most important area of focus has been when looking at the resulting problems in left in homes, families, schools and education. The structures were destroyed, dismantled or displaced that taught the children how to respect each other’s opinions. UTN1 continues, “Another problem is every body is afraid of everybody and that is because of war.”

“Anything in our ability to do, we do so to contribute to the fight against sectarianism which is the basis of the destruction of our homeland.”

UTN1 had a contract with a music company in Lebanon in the years 2005-2010. The contract is ended when they moved to USA after what was happening in the Middle East. “That move had a huge impact on us. It affected us greatly and we now had to each count on ourselves financially beside the impact on rehearsals. We’ve been working for three years now for our upcoming album. We now count on the social network sites to post everything about our coming work. Our ambition is to sign a new contract with a music company so we can be back strongly and live in a country that is safe.”

‫ﻣﺜﻞ ﻣﻌﻈﻢ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻕ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ‪ ،‬ﺍﻟﺒﺪﺍﻳﺔ ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﻣﺠﻤﻮﻋﺔ ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﺻﺪﻗﺎء ﻳﻤﺘﻠﻜﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﻫﺒﺔ ﻭﻗﺮﺭﻭﺍ ﺍﻥ ﻳﺠﺮﺑﻮﺍ ﺷﻴﺌﺎ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺍً‪ ،‬ﺃﻥ‬ ‫ﻳﺒﺪﺃﻭﺍ ﻛﻔﺮﻗﺔ ﺭﻭﻙ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﺸﺮﻕ ﺍﻻﻭﺳﻂ ‪ .‬ﻗﺒﻞ ‪ 15‬ﻋﺎﻣﺎ ﺑﺪﺃﻭﺍ‬ ‫ﺍﻭﻟﻰ ﺧﻄﻮﺍﺗﻬﻢ ﻓﻲ ﺑﻐﺪﺍﺩ ﻭ ﺗﺤﺪﻳﺪﺍً ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻡ ‪ . 1999‬ﺑﺪﺃ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻣﺆﻟﻔﺎ‬ ‫ﻛﺜﻨﺎﺋﻲ ﻣﻜﻮﻥ ﻣﻦ ﺷﺎﻧﺖ ﻭﺃﺭﺗﻴﻦ ﺛﻢ ﺍﻛﺘﻤﻞ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺍﺻﺒﺢ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ ﺃﺧﻠﺪ ﻭﺣﺴﻦ ﻭﺷﺎﻧﺖ ﻭﺃﺭﺗﻴﻦ ‪ .‬ﻫﺬﻩ ﺍﻟﻤﺠﻤﻮﻋﺔ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺸﺒﺎﺏ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻄﻤﻮﺡ ﺗﺮﻛﺰ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﻮﺣﺪﺓ ﺑﻤﻌﻨﻰ ﺍﻻﺗﺤﺎﺩ ﻭﺗﺴﻌﻰ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺗﻌﺰﻳﺰ‬ ‫ﺫﻟﻚ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻋﻤﺎﻟﻬﻢ ‪ .‬ﻭﺍﺻﺒﺢ ﺍﺳﻢ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻳﻮ ﺗﻲ ﺃﻥ ﻭﻥ ﻭﻫﻮ‬ ‫ﻣﺨﺘﺼﺮ ﻷﺭﺑﻊ ﻛﻠﻤﺎﺕ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻠﻐﺔ ﺍﻻﻧﻜﻠﻴﺰﻳﺔ ﻭﺗﻌﻨﻲ ﻏﻴﺮ ﻣﻌﺮﻭﻑ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻰ ﻻ ﺃﺣﺪ‪ .‬ﻓﻴﻤﺎ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻧﻀﻢ ﻋﻀﻮ ﺧﺎﻣﺲ ﻭﻫﻮ ﻧﺪﻳﻢ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ﺑﻌﺪ ﻓﺘﺮﺓ ﻗﻀﺎﻫﺎ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻤﻤﻠﻜﺔ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪﺓ ﻭﺃﻧﻀﻢ ﺍﻟﻜﻴﺒﻮﺭﺩﻳﺴﺖ‬ ‫ﻣﺮﻭﺍﻥ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻡ ‪.2011‬‬ ‫ﻳﻌﺘﻤﺪ ﻓﺮﻳﻖ ﻳﻮ ﺗﻲ ﺃﻥ ﻭﻥ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﺎﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﺨﺘﻠﻔﺔ ‪ ،‬ﺗﻠﻚ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﺎﺕ ﺗﻤﺜﻞ ﺍﻟﺘﻨﻮﻉ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻕ ﻭﻟﺬﻟﻚ ﻧﺮﺍﻫﻢ ﻳﻨﺘﻤﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﻰ‬ ‫ﻣﺨﺘﻠﻒ ﺍﻟﻄﻮﺍﺋﻒ ﻭﺍﻟﻤﺬﺍﻫﺐ ﺍﻟﺘﻲ ﻳﺘﻜﻮﻥ ﻣﻨﻬﺎ ﺍﻟﻨﺴﻴﺞ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﺟﺘﻤﺎﻋﻲ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ ‪ .‬ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﻔﻜﺮﺓ ﻣﺰﺝ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﻭﺍﺳﺘﺨﺪﺍﻡ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﻻﺕ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ﺷﺮﻗﻴﺔ ﻭﻏﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻣﻊ ﺍﻟﺘﺮﻛﻴﺰ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ﻭﺍﻳﻀﺎ ﻣﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﺒﻮﺏ ﻭﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﻼﺗﻴﻨﻴﺔ ‪ .‬ﺍﺳﺘﺨﺪﻡ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻓﻲ ﻣﻌﺎﻟﺠﺘﻪ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ﻻﻏﺎﻧﻴﻪ ﺁﻟﺔ ﺍﻟﻌﻮﺩ ﻭﺁﻟﺔ ﺍﻟﺠﻮﺯﺓ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻣﺰﻳﺠﺎ ﺟﺪﻳﺪﺍً ﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ ﺍﻟﻘﺪﻳﻤﺔ ﻭﺍﻳﻀﺎ ﺁﻟﺔ ﺍﻟﻘﺎﻧﻮﻥ ﻭ ﻛﻮﻧﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﻭﻷﻭﻝ ﻣﺮﺓ ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻣﺜﻞ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﻳﺪ ﻣﻦ ﻓﺮﻕ ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ‪ -‬ﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﺒﺪﺍﻳﺔ ﺿﻌﻴﻔﺔ ﻭ ﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ‬ ‫ﻳﻘﻮﻣﻮﻥ ﺑﺘﺨﺰﻳﻦ ﺍﻻﻻﺕ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ ﻓﻲ ﻧﻬﺎﻳﺔ ﺍﻟﺠﺰء ﺍﻟﺨﻠﻔﻲ‬ ‫ﻣﻦ ﺳﻴﺎﺭﺓ ﻓﻮﻟﻜﺲ ﻓﺎﺟﻦ ﺑﺎﺳﺎﺕ‪ .‬ﻭﻛﺎﻧﺖ ﺍﻟﺴﻴﺎﺭﺓ ﻣﺮﺣﻠﺔ‬ ‫ﺑﺮﻭﻓﺔ ﻣﺘﻨﻘﻠﺔ‪ .‬ﻓﻌﻠﻮﺍ ﺃﻱ ﺷﻲء ﻳﻤﻜﻨﻬﻢ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺤﺼﻮﻝ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺑﻌﺾ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻮﻗﺖ ﻻﺫﺍﻋﺔ ﺍﻏﻨﻴﺎﺗﻬﻢ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺍﻟﺮﺍﺩﻳﻮ ‪ ...‬ﻭﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﻄﺮﻳﻒ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺿﻮﻉ ﺍﻧﻬﻢ ﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ ﻳﺆﻟﻔﻮﻥ ﺍﻏﻨﻴﺔ ﻋﻴﺪ ﺍﻟﻤﻴﻼﺩ ﻟﻠﺮﺋﻴﺲ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ ﺍﻟﺴﺎﺑﻖ ﺻﺪﺍﻡ ﺣﺴﻴﻦ ﻭﺑﺬﻟﻚ ﻛﺎﻧﻮﺍ ﻳﻀﻤﻨﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﺤﺼﻮﻝ‬ ‫ﻋﻠﻰ ﺳﺎﻋﺎﺕ ﺑﺚ ﻻﻏﻨﻴﺎﺗﻬﻢ ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻓﻲ ﻋﺎﻡ ‪ 2002‬ﻗﺮﺭ ﺃﺧﻠﺪ ﻣﻐﺎﺩﺭﺓ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﺍﻟﺴﻔﺮ ﻓﺈﻧﻀﻢ ﺩﻟﻴﺮ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻣﺆﻗﺘﺎ ﻭﺳﺠﻞ ﺑﻘﻴﺔ ﺍﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺍﻻﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﻭﻓﻲ ﻧﻔﺲ ﺍﻟﻌﺎﻡ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻰ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ‬ ‫ﺣﺼﻞ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺩﻋﻢ ﺃﻟﻦ ﺃﻧﻮﻳﺎ ﺻﺎﺣﺐ ﻣﺘﺠﺮ ﺍﻟﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﺑﻐﺪﺍﺩ ﻭﺗﻢ ﺍﻻﻧﺘﻬﺎء ﻣﻦ ﺍﻻﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﻭﻃﺮﺡ ﻓﻲ ﺍﻻﺳﻮﺍﻕ ‪ .‬ﺗﻠﻘﻰ‬ ‫ﺍﻻﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﺭﺩﻭﺩ ﺍﻓﻌﺎﻝ ﺍﻳﺠﺎﺑﻴﺔ ﻟﺪﻯ ﺍﻟﻤﺴﺘﻤﻊ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ ﻣﻦ ﻣﺨﺘﻠﻒ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﺎﺕ ﻭﺣﺘﻰ ﺍﻟﻠﺬﻳﻦ ﻳﺴﺘﻤﻌﻮﻥ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺍﻻﻏﺎﻧﻲ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﺃﻗﺒﻠﻮﺍ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﻧﺎﺟﺤﺎ ﺍﻟﻰ ﺣﺪ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ‬ ‫ﺃﻟﺒﻮﻣﺎ‬ ‫ﻋﻠﻰ ﺷﺮﺍء ﺍﻻﻟﺒﻮﻡ ﻣﻤﺎ ﺟﻌﻠﻪ‬ ‫ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻴﺔ‪ ،‬ﺗﻠﻘﺖ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻗﺔ ﻗﺪﺭﺍ ﻛﺒﻴﺮﺍ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻻﻫﺘﻤﺎﻡ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﻭﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻹﻋﻼﻡ ﺍﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪﺓ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﺑﺈﻋﺘﺒﺎﺭﻫﻢ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺍﻟﻌﺮﺍﻗﻲ‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ﺍﻳﻀﺎ ﺑﻤﻮﺳﻴﻘﻰ ﺍﻟﺮﻭﻙ ﻭﺍﻟﺒﻮﺏ‪. .‬‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻮﺣﻴﺪ ﺍﻟﻐﺮﺑﻲ ﻭﺍﻟﻤﺨﺘﺺ‬ ‫ﻓﻮﺟﺊ ﺻﺒﺎﺡ ﺃﺣﺪ ﺍﻷﻳﺎﻡ ﺃﻥ ﻫﻨﺎﻙ ﻗﺪﺭﺍ ﻫﺎﺋﻼ ﻣﻦ ﺍﻟﺼﺤﺎﻓﺔ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﻣﺪﺧﻞ ﺑﻴﺖ ﺣﺴﻦ ﺫﺍﺕ ﻳﻮﻡ ﺑﺘﺠﻤﻊ ﻛﺒﻴﺮ ﻟﻠﺼﺤﺎﻓﺔ ﺍﻣﺎﻡ ﻣﻨﺰﻟﻪ ‪.‬‬ ‫ﻛﺎﻥ ﻫﺬﺍ ﺃﻭﻝ ﺍﻟﺠﻨﻮﻥ ﻟﻮﺳﺎﺋﻞ ﺍﻻﻋﻼﻡ‪ .‬ﺃﺣﺪ ﺍﻟﺼﺤﻔﻴﻴﻦ ﺩﺧﻞ ﺍﻟﻰ‬ ‫ﻣﻄﺒﺦ ﺍﻟﺒﻴﺖ ﻟﻴﺴﺄﻝ ﺑﻌﺾ ﺍﻻﺳﺌﻠﺔ ﻋﻦ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﻭﻣﻦ ﻫﻨﺎ ﻋﺮﻑ‬ ‫ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺍﻥ ﻫﺬﻩ ﻫﻲ ﺑﺪﺍﻳﺔ ﺭﺣﻠﺘﻬﻢ‪ .‬ﻟﻢ ﺗﻜﻦ ﺍﻟﺤﻴﺎﺓ ﺑﻌﺪ ﺍﻟﺤﺮﺏ‬ ‫ﺳﻬﻠﺔ ﺑﻞ ﺍﻣﺘﺪﺕ ﻭﺃﺧﺬﺕ ﺷﻜﻼ ﺛﺎﻧﻴﺎ ﻭ ﺑﺬﻟﻚ ﺍﺩﺭﻙ ﺍﻟﻔﺮﻳﻖ ﺃﻥ‬

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‫‪UTN1 has come a long way to put‬‬ ‫‪their name on the music charts in‬‬ ‫‪Middle East. They transform the‬‬ ‫‪suffering of war into their songs‬‬ ‫‪and created a new hope with a‬‬ ‫‪rock style of music.‬‬

‫‪New album coming soon‬‬ ‫‪“We started to record our next album and we are about in half of‬‬ ‫‪it. We filmed a new song in the state of Washington in the US with‬‬ ‫‪a young Iraqi director Ali Karim. The song is titled “Mur Biyya” or‬‬ ‫‪“swing by me” and is inspired from the words of a friend Robin‬‬ ‫‪Tomasean and Alhanna. It was be distributed by Lebanese distribu‬‬‫‪tor Hahia Koppelaan. The song, so far has made a significant impact‬‬ ‫‪without the video. It is broadcasted on many Arabic TV Channels‬‬ ‫‪and also on YouTube. It has help keep them in the social media‬‬ ‫‪and is a great success their fans. This next album is to be released‬‬ ‫‪mid-summer by the end of July. The track list is still being finalized‬‬ ‫‪but will have 8 to 10 new songs‬‬ ‫‪They wanted to express to the audience is that we as a team are‬‬ ‫‪present and continuing in spite of our miles and distances apart. It‬‬ ‫‪is a challenge but they are tightly bound. At last they are working to‬‬ ‫‪complete the album and new songs and hope that circumstances‬‬ ‫‪will allow us to fulfill it in the fastest time in order so the public can‬‬ ‫”‪rejoice with them. “This is our goal and we are reaching it.‬‬ ‫‪“As for our beloved Iraq and its people, we would like and‬‬ ‫‪we hope that peace prevails in the country. We hope to see a‬‬ ‫‪stop to the bloodshed and hope for an awareness that the key‬‬ ‫‪to live in peace and safety is to accept each other and co-exist.‬‬ ‫”‪Religion is for God and the homeland for all.‬‬

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. . . e n o o n o t n w o n Unk in the U S Written by Tareq Al Saud

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DREA

an interview with film maker AN

Andrea Pabon discussing her latest film: in between

Andrea Pabon is a fresh faced Puerto Rican woman setting out to make Chicago her creative haven. Her ambition, drive and vitality for life are infectious. She draws people in with her positive attitude despite the cut-throat industries she works in – film directing and fashion photography. She also moonlights as a freelance stylist. Yet, it is her love for film, cinematography and photography that takes center stage in her creative endeavors.

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She trained as a director at Columbia College Chicago and recently put her skills and experience to the test undertaking the production and release of her first independent film: In Between.

Andrea’s ability to communicate her ideas through strong visuals and beautiful story telling helps to create a relationship between her audience and her characters. Viewers can feel the raw emotion and sense the unseen in her work. Producing and directing a film is a huge undertaking, but Andrea is driven and as is the case with most millennials - she doesn’t wait for things to happen, she makes them happen.

Andrea comes from the new age of makers. Rather than waiting for funding, she went out to find it. Utilizing social media and the crowd sourcing site: gofundme. com – Andrea was able to come up with the funds necessary to get her project off the ground. She credits her amazing team for the beautiful final product. Andrea took some time out of her busy schedule recently to speak with the Halfstack team about her project: In Between and the journey of directing an independent film in the city of Chicago.

Read on for the interview: Can you tell us about your current project - concept behind the film and what inspired you to create it?

In between is a short film which explorers how people deal with traumatic experiences, in this case domestic abuse. One of the main sources of inspiration came from my little brother. He came home one day after being bullied by some kids in his class and told me that he didn’t belong in this world.

My little brother’s comment then stemmed a story based around a mother being

abused by her ex husband while her teenage son tries to deal with the situation to find his own voice.

What are the underlying themes that you are exploring within the film and what are you hoping to express?

The message that I’m trying to send to anyone who watches in between is that it’s never too late to get out of a bad situation. Whether it be abuse or not, there’s always a way out and somewhere within yourself a strong enough person to do something about it. Everyone is capable of change.

How did you develop and recruit the team for this specific project?

I’ve been extremely fortunate to have found a group of people from my experience at Columbia College Chicago that I work extremely well with and have continued to work with. Most of my heads of department I’m lucky enough to also call my friends. It took me a bit to find the right producer but when I found Yana Kirichkova, I knew she was the right one for the job. The first person I usually have on board for my films is my talented editor, Alexis Corrigan. Alexis has been my partner in crime for so long now. I can’t tell you how many times she’s saved my ass.

Andrea Pabon´ A Young Visionary

WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER VEGUILLA-LEZAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANDREA PABON

´

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Besides being the best editor I know, she’s efficient and can pull a trick out of her magical hat like nobody’s business. I always tell people “HIRE HER!” but secretly I hope she doesn’t get too busy so that she wins an Oscar for editing one of my films... and believe me, she will!

a personal experience of their own is amazing, and if I can make one person feel something through imagery then I’ve done my job.

What special creative styles are you using in the film that you are most proud of?

With every project that I make, there is always growth and a new sense of knowledge that comes along with it. I keep learning what works and what doesn’t work, efficient ways to do things and ultimately how to be a better collaborator. No one achieves anything alone in this industry and I wouldn’t be half as good of a director if I didn’t have an amazing team.

My cinematographer Michael Maliwanag and I have worked together twice now and will be collaborating again for my first feature film. Mike and I completely get one another creatively, so bouncing ideas off of one another was basically a huge cluster of inspiration.

Him and I knew that we wanted to shoot on 35mm film instead of digital. That alone set the tone for the look of the film. We wanted the film to feel as organic as possible while incorporating things like unconventional framing and special attention to details using extreme close ups.

Sensory imagery is something I like to incorporate in everything that I make.

Being able to show the audience something that triggers a specific scent or feeling that then triggers

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How have you seen yourself grow with the project from projects in your past?

Finding our amazingly talented cast started with my equally talented casting director, Caitlin Noah. Caitlin is a director, as well as my best friend in the entire world, so she knew exactly what it was that I was looking for. She was able to find tons of incredible local Chicago actors but ultimately, Angela Beckefeld, Maverick Schmit and Aaron Christensen were meant for the roles. I’m so grateful for my cast, but even more grateful that Caitlin was a part of this project and found the won-

derful cast for in between.

What are your goals for yourself as a director this year? Any upcoming projects that you are excited about?

My goal as a director this year is to keep making mistakes and leaning from them. Learning is key for growth. The moment I feel I have learned everything (which won’t happen) I will definitely stop. My next film is a big one and will require a long time to make so keeping myself inspired during the process is most important. It will be my first feature length film and will be shot in my homeland of Puerto Rico. There’s a lot of planning and fundraising to do before we actually shoot, but in the meantime I plan to keep myself inspired with photo shoots and wardrobe styling. Another project I’m working on is planning and fundraising to help the stray animal population in Puerto Rico.

I’m a huge animal activist and someday hope to build Puerto Rico’s first no kill shelter. Since both projects are in Puerto Rico I hope to be traveling there more within the coming year.

In between will be making its way around festivals soon and will be pre-

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miering in Chicago in the Spring. To keep up with the film, feel free to visit the in between facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Inbetweenfilm1 The films website will be released soon and will be announced on the facebook page. Check out the trailer at: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=32t2Ph_cemo Check out some of my personal work and drop me a line for any future collaborations at: www.andreapabon.com Enjoy in between!

With every project that I make, there is always growth and a new sense of knowledge that comes along with it.

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Passion - your inner compa PABON

written by: reynisha lindsay

What is passion?

We hear people use the word every day. You may have even been asked in an interview or casual conversation – “What are you passionate about?” Is passion a feeling that we innately connect with joy or happiness? Or is passion a quality that only some of us possess?

According to the dictionary passion is defined as a strong powerful emotion. It could be anger or joy. Though, I suppose most think of passion in the later sense – joy. I believe we all possess passion. However, we may not always recognize it.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help identify your passion: 1. What do you love to do?

2. What do you do well?

3. What do you dream about?

4. What would you do if money was not a concern?

The answers to these questions should not be about money.

Most would like to make more money and have even dreamt about becoming rich. However,

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that should not be your motivation for finding your passion.

The love of money will only lead you to get rich schemes or disappointment. Many have misquoted the love of money by saying, “Money is the root of all evil.” However, the correct quote is a scripture (I Timothy 6:10) which states, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” The preface to this verse is that those who want to get rich fall into temptation and many foolish and harmful desires which lead to destruction. I do not need to tell you what those snares may be for you. What I do need to tell you is the love of money is not a passion. Therefore, think about the questions again and answer from your heart.

Now right down the answers so you can start to see what your heart is yearning to do.

Too often the answers to these questions are fleeting thoughts, especially question 4. We tend to let all the negative thoughts and reasons why we cannot do something, deflate our passion. Nonetheless, we must

embrace our passion and bring it into everything that we do.

By doing so, you invite creative insights and new ideas into your thoughts and into your mind. Subsequently, when the negative thoughts start to creep into your mind it will be easy to push them aside. Surround yourself with people who see your enthusiasm and support it.

It is necessary to be around like minded people while nurturing your passion.

Someone once said that working hard for something that you do not care about is called stress. Yet working hard for something you love is called passion. Reason being, when you do what comes naturally or what you are enthused about it is fun. It does not matter if it is your job, a hobby or special interest, you will excel once your mind views the task as enjoyable. When you enjoy something, you want to do it as often as you can and to the best of your ability. Hence, the key words to take away here in discovering your passion are natural, enthusiasm and enjoyable.

Another important concept to note is passion cannot be

ass learned. You can’t take a class on it...well, I guess you could take a class about passion... though, it would not teach you how to acquire passion. Passion is your inner compass, pointing you in the direction your life should go. Often times you may find yourself ignoring directions or not looking at your compass. You may think you know what the best route is for your life. You start down a path and are afraid to veer off even though you know your passion lies in another direction. Why do you run away from the thing or things you love the most?

What are you afraid of – failure or success? You

should not be afraid of failure or success. We all have to fail before we succeed. No one is perfect. Thus, you may have to do something more than once and that is okay. Just find cre-

ative solutions to the challenges put before you. People who excel in their fields, whether it be athletics, the arts, business or entertainment, all possess a passion for what they do. It fuels their ambition. It guides their every waking moment. It drives them each and every day. An entrepreneur who had great passion for what he did was Steve Jobs. He embodied passion and described it best when he said: “And the only way to do a great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”

He is absolutely correct. I have to say unknowingly (I say unknowingly because in the past I never termed the motivation for what I was doing as passion) passion has been the fuel to my success. People have often asked me what motivates me to do a great job – and I always say, “I love what I do…I

immerse myself in what I am doing.” I did not always know I was describing my passion but I knew loving what I did, made me successful. When you are following your heart and doing what you love, that is a recipe for success. Remember, success comes in many forms and does not have the same meaning for everyone. It is relative.

Do not compare your beginning to someone else’s end. If you do, you will neither be happy nor realize your passion. We are all on various parts of the journey. If you get stuck and cannot change what you are doing, remember you do have the power to change HOW you are doing it. Let your passion show through even the smallest task. It will motivate you and others will begin to see your enthusiasm shine through.

As you become more self aware, it is important to believe your passion will lead you to your purpose. You just have to listen to your heart and be patient. Love your decisions and do not compare yourself to others. Let your actions speak for themselves. It is only then will others begin to see your passion. Ralph Waldo Emerson made a very astute comment when he said, “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”

Therefore, follow your inner compass and you will find yourself on the journey of your life!

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in between is a short, experimental film, which explores a young man’s struggle to understand love in an abusive household. This leads him to create a false reality where he tries to escape the traumatic events he’s faced with. visit us online at: http://inbetweenfilm.tumblr.com

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