Legends Magazine November 2019 Issue

November 2019

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*THE BREAKDOWN

001 Here 002 Next Page, Editor’s Edition: “Be Grateful ” 003 The Beauty Report by Zoe Ruddock 004 The L Word: Balling on a Budget?

005 LISTEN: Diana Gordon 006 “Toxic” by Brittney Bonner 007-008 Film Noir Presents: “The Films & TV Shows I’m Most Thankful For”

By Ashlee Rouse

009 BE FEARLESS *THE INTERVIEW 010-013 Meet the Legend: Amy McCoy

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TENTS #CelebrateEverything

#BeGrateful

#StopClaiming

*THE THEMES FOR THIS MONTH’S ISSUE

Legends, I believe we spend too much time of our lives complaining about what we could be or should be doing, who we could or should be loving, yet we miss the moment of gratitude, the moment of presence.

If we become present, express gratitude and celebrate everything no matter the level of accomplishment or success, we will move through life happier and more fulfilled.

We are not going to figure everything out and we may never and that’s okay. Instead, we have to believe that if we don’t, it doesn’t mean we’re failing. It only means we’re still growing and haven’t reached our height of potential.

But just imagine how tall you’ll be when everything comes together, when everything starts making sense, when there’s nothing to complain about but only to say “Thank you”.

Just imagine the day you step into your purpose and become legendary. From now on, let’s be grateful for every mistake, every lesson, and every victory. And always remember, I see you, I hear you, I love you.

Lena Hardy Editor-in-Chief

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Keep that same

Summer Energy this fall

The L Word FASHION, FUNCTIONALLY Balling on a Budget? Here’s How Written by: Lauren Franklin

The beginning of a new season is always a good excuse to turn the page on a fresh chapter. Whether it be setting goals or incorporating different routines, one thing will always remain the same: the need for change. In fashion, this shift is typically hallmarked by switching clothing seasonally and taking inventory of what’s needed. However, let’s be real here. The average 20 something doesn’t have a large amount of expendable cash to devote to sprucing up their wardrobes. In actuality, most people rotate a majority of their pieces throughout seasons of several years. So how exactly do you stay on trend without breaking the bank?

The short and practical answer is, you don’t. When it comes to making essential clothing purchases, the best practice is to stay away from trendy items, especially if your funds are limited. Trends change with the weather, and are likely not to be “in style” months after your investment. Rather than spending your coins on short lived fads, choose items that remain true to your style that you won’t have to give away in the long run. Opt for high street vs. high end by selecting basics from stores such as Zara, Uniqlo, COS, and H&M.

Get familiar with seasonal sales and cash out on your wishlist at a discounted price.

If you also have your eye on a more expensive designer piece, plan to save for it strategically instead of making a spontaneous purchase. And most importantly, buy quality pieces that will last beyond a machine wash. You will spend more money replacing those items than you will by avoiding the cheap route altogether. Budgeting doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does need to be smart.

Happy shopping!

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When your introduction to an artist starts off with these lyrics, you know immediately you’re going to be a fan forever.

Woman, woman...

Got a whole lot of nerve, she the flame in the fire Woman, woman...

She's a lover and a fighter and a king and a mother Woman, woman Turn a boy to a man, build a whole empire That woman got a story With her halo standing and her glory

LISTEN

American singer-songwriter Diana Gordon is more than the mastermind of Beyonce’s “Becky with the good hair” line, she’s the woman who continues to evolve, becoming more, becoming better creatively and personally which only helps with the task at hand, art. With a heavy background in songwriting, she’s the woman that writes for the women searching for guidance, longing for empowerment, and hoping to find love but would be okay without it.

Gordon is an artist that doesn’t feel stuck to only create in one genre nor one medium.

Under the name, Wynter Gordon, she became very popular among the dance electropop world especially with her single, “Dirty Talk”. Although the single brought her attention, it wasn’t the message she wanted to present to the world which led to issues with her label. Eventually, Gordon left Atlantic and took time to understand herself, the everchanging world, and reconnect her mind, body, and soul. It was a re-discovery of self and was much needed.

On her single, “Kool Aid”, she reminds listeners to run home whenever we’re feeling homesick, lost and in need of our own self discovery. Noting that there’ll be a glass kool aid waiting for us.

My love's forever And my love is free You can always come running to me So if you wanna run home 'cause you're missing the kool aid

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T O x i C T O x i C Toxic the nerve On my phone like i owe you something Quick to show you life don’t owe u nothing intimidated by what this is so you call it stuntin Me? Frontin? so you go thru my phone looking for context Told you not to figure me out Told u I was complex i hope you got what you needed u want out ? Cool ain’t no begging and pleading cause what we not gon do is go back and forth feel how you feel tho i guess we’ve ran our course It is what it is We ain’t gotta be extra All i ask is that for once you see it from my spectrum making little effort to prove that i wasn’t like the rest of them all you had to do was be patience you could’ve had the best of them Brittney

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Film Noir Presents:

“The Films & TV Shows Written By: I’m Most Thankful For” Ashlee Michelle Rouse, J.D. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and being the entertainment lover that I am, I decided to discuss the films and television shows I’m most thankful for. A vast number of titles began to run through my mind, however I immediately narrowed in on the ones that have made the most profound impact on my life. Great film and television, when done correctly, has the power to effect positive change. I’ve been changed for the better by each of these titles. I urge everyone to check out one of the titles below if they haven’t seen them yet!

TV SHOWS #1 A Different World:

#2 Grey’s Anatomy

A Different World has been my favorite TV show ever since I can remember! I wear my Hillman sweatshirt faithfully. From the popular theme song sung by the legendary Aretha Franklin, to the epic romance between Whitley and Dwayne, this show has impacted a generation. When Debbie Allen took over as creative director in season 2, she brought vibrance to the show that was sorely lacking in the first season. She took inspiration from her years at the illustrious Howard University, and brought Hillman College to life. This show has inspired countless of young black children to attend college, and continues that tradition. On another note, there are countless iconic episodes! My personal favorites are the infamous wedding episode, the Tupac Shakur episode, and the black history episode from season five. The show tackled many important topics, and depicted black students aspiring to make a difference in their community.

My close friends and family know without a shadow of a doubt that THIS. IS. MY. SHOW. In my mind, I am a fifth year surgical resident; however in reality I live vicariously through my best friend Jennifer, who’s in her last year of medical school.

I’d never been into medical shows prior, but Shonda Rhimes pulled me in with her complex characters, their complicated lives, and their love for surgery. Meredith Grey, is perhaps the most multifaceted female character ever written for network television. I love that she sees things not in black and white, but in shades of gray. The passion the surgeons have for learning their craft is contagious. Additionally, the amount of diversity on the show is beautiful to watch. In my opinion, Grey’s encompasses what it means to be human. You have these brilliant doctors working to save their patients from illnesses, but in reality their personal lives are just as broken as their patients. Everyone needs healing.

#4 Queen Sugar Queen Sugar is a masterpiece. Ava Duvernay outdid herself with this visually stunning homage to the black family and experience in America. The cinematography is breathtaking and the soundtrack is astounding. Not to mention, this show introduced us to the ever so handsome Kofi Siriboe. I remember watching the pilot episode, and being blown away by the unspoken dialogue between the characters. There are so many scenes that speak volumes, and build upon the emotion the actors emit through their gaze and movements. Additionally, I feel like there is a character that each person can connect with and feel represented by. I can’t wait to see how this show continues to grow and evolve!

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#3 Pose

Those who know me, also know that Ryan Murphy can do NO wrong in my eyes.

It’s hard to find the proper words to adequately describe how gorgeous and impactful this show is. Pose is one of the most poignant shows of our generation.

Set in 1980’s New York City, Ryan and his writers delve into the underground ballroom scene, which was home to countless trans persons of color. He discusses topics such as the AIDs epidemic, rejection, love, family, and overall the resilience each character possesses. He also shines a light on how their culture Don’t let the sixteen seasons, or the fact that your has crossed over and favorite character might die deter you. Just enjoy heavily influenced the magic that is Grey’s. It truly does encompass mainstream media both back then and today. I the human spirit. think people no matter BTW Lena Hardy is the Cristina Yang to my their sexual orientation, Meredith Grey. She’s my person! gender, or race should watch this show. Trust me!

Film Noir Presents:

Written By:

“The Films & TV Shows I’m Most Thankful For” Ashlee Michelle Rouse, J.D.

FILMS

#1 Titanic Listen. I was obsessed with Titanic from the ages of 7-10. I remember watching it, and believing it was sheer perfection.

Although my obsession has subsided over the years, I still consider it to be amongst my top three favorite movies. James Cameron, James Horner, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, and Celine Dion were the height of cinematic perfection to seven year old me, and I know I got on my family’s last nerve. I am thankful that Titanic raised my appreciation for film to the next level. Ignoring the fact that Rose could have definitely made room for Jack on the door, Titanic is one of the best films ever made. #2 The Great Debaters I saw this movie at least three times while it was in theaters. Again, the unspoken dialogue was magnificent. For example, when Professor Tolson dropped the students off at the train station before heading to compete at Harvard University.

Another great moment was when Samantha Booke, played by Jurnee Smollett-Bell, debated for the first time in Oklahoma and gave a rousing speech about the injustice of segregated schooling. I remember the movie theater erupting in applause after she finished. Finally, this quote from the movie has stuck with me over the years, and I recite it to myself when facing obstacles.

“Who's the judge?

The judge is God. And why is He God? Because He decides who wins or loses, not my opponent.

And who is your opponent?

He doesn't exist.

And why doesn't he exist?

Because he is a mere descending voice of the truth that I speak.” #3 Sex and the City A girl’s night classic! Lena Hardy and I have watched this more times than we can count. I didn’t watch the show while it was on television, so this was my first introduction to Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte. The beauty of this movie is the friendship between the ladies. We see this when Charlotte gave us an Oscar worthy performance while yelling at Big after the doomed wedding. We see it again when the girls go with Carrie on her honeymoon, and again when Carrie runs across NYC so Miranda doesn’t have to be alone on New Year’s Eve. Finally, the fashion! Watching the movie is like flipping through Vogue magazine. Sex and the City is the perfect movie to watch with your girlfriends, and it never gets old! #4 Love Jones Love Jones is an entire mood. It encompasses everything I love; poetry, photography, romance, and Larenz Tate. Does a movie need anything else? I recently re-watched this film after Netflix added it to its platform, and was reminded how breathtaking it is. I wish we had more movies like this. Darius and Nina had such amazing chemistry, and a profound love for black literature and the arts. The soundtrack for the film is also a huge bonus!

Lastly, the movie gives us one of the most epic lines spoken by a man in film: “Let me tell you somethin'. This here, right now, at this very moment, is all that matters to me. I love you.

That's urgent like a motherf**ker.” -Darius Lovehall That line always gets me!

This completes my list. I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving, and enjoys their time with family and friends!

Which films and TV shows are you most thankful for?

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FEAR NOTHING BE FEARLESS IN YOUR PURSUIT TOWARDS YOUR DREAMS. THEY LIVE AMONG THE CLOUDS AS OF NOW BUT WITH FAITH, A CONSISTENT WORK ETHIC, AND PASSION, YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL BE ABLE TO PULL EACH OF THEM DOWN TO THE GROUND AND WALK YOUR PATH.

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MEET THE LEGEND:

AMY MCCOY Who is Amy McCoy? Amy McCoy is the founder and Broker of My Hometown Realty Group. She is an active member for over 15 years and currently serving President of the West Georgia Board of Realtors®. Amy is not only a real estate Professional, but an activist for Cultural Diversity and Fair Housing. Her “Purple Hair, just don’t care” attitude sets her apart from the norm and has earned her the respect of being an individual that cares about real estate for her clients and the West Georgia Board of Realtors®.

She encourages all professionals to join the board and be a participant in their communities and diversity groups. Her commitment to every client resonates with her peers whether it is luxury home sales or low to moderate income housing to help those in need as well as taking on redlining / appraisal issues faced in once blighted areas. Her efforts have been recognized with the Georgia Association of Realtors® and she now serves as Chair for the Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

Amy McCoy says “We are tasked and should be committed to emphasizing the worth of hiring a Realtor®.

Our goal is to educate the public and to uphold ethical practices so that our clients save time and money.

Above all else, I am committed to seeing that everyone has a chance at responsible home ownership and investing."

What's the motto/slogan for your life?

“Aspire to Inspire and Let your Light Shine”

This issue's theme is gratitude, what does gratitude mean to you?

Gratitude to me means showing appreciation. With all the leadership roles I have had this year I’ve learned to over emphasis the words ”Thank you” especially for those that volunteer their time. For me as a small business owner, I am rarely told thank you even as a volunteer so I make sure to express it for even the smallest things.

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When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in real estate?

I never wanted to be in real estate. My mother encouraged me back in 2004.

What advice would you provide to other aspiring realtors?

Invest in your career. Pay for the extra education. Volunteer and be involved in the community. In our business you learn more about community issues, life, and the impact of government than any other profession.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

In 2017, I sat in Congressman John Lewis' office in Washington D.C. and explained to him the work being done in the community to help clean up and draw attention to the discrimination practices that were happening in the blighted community. John Lewis grabbed my hand, looked me square in the eye and told me, "In order to make change you must create the change. You need to be involved in governing.â&#x20AC;?

As a realtor, what's your typical work day?

As a Realtor ( Which is a trade-name for the largest Real Estate trade organization) my day to day varies. I service clients looking to either sell or buyer and sometimes that is both. Owning my own company, I also manage approx 200 rental units. My mornings are most productive for me because I am a early riser where I can return a lot of calls, emails and scout opportunities for my clients. I manage 3 other agents in my office to help them be productive and stay on top of educational requirements and professional growth.

Being a real estate professional is more than a real estate sign. It takes people skills, to be able to effectively communicate and negotiate a property, where for most people is the largest asset they will ever own. I work with a lot of Foreign Nationals, so for me personally I deal with a lot of different cultures. So having knowledge of different customs and traditions is key for me. In this industry you have to be flexible, deal with many personalities. Some people are disgruntle when they have to sell their homes sometimes as a result to a divorce, pending foreclosure, family death, etc. As a professional we find ourselves becoming the therapist, doctor, lawyer and one time I ended up being a involuntary babysitter when I was at the house doing a Open House.

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How do you feel you are impacting your community?

I believe I am making a impact by consistently seeking current information to know the trends. Going beyond the HGTV shows. I listen to the economists, watch for short term trends and what other cities are doing to engage with their communities.

Why are civil rights important to you?

I have lived in other countries so I have seen first hand why civil rights are important. As some one who is multiracial, I have seen discrimination just because of the hue of my skin. I have been denied housing and employment. I have watched in our country a level of disrespect shown to our fellow brethren and civil rights are thought of only as privileges. Today we still have discrimination based on race, religion and now we see it with gender identity and sexual orientation. In some cities you see source of income as a way to discriminate.

As the President of West Georgia Board of Realtors, what are your primary responsibilities?

As president I oversee the direction of the board, lead by example of being a good steward of our profession, make sure the Realtor Brand is held to the ethical standards the consumers need and provide feedback to local municipalities in regards to building and housing markets.

I would consider you to be a world traveler, how many places have your traveled?

I have lost count on the many places I have traveled. But in the last year, I have met 3 world leaders. I have visited places like Anguilla, UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahamas, Jamaica and plenty US States.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I am so thankful God has blessed me with a great memory. My mother taught me time management. I believe those are the root to my superpowers, but I don't know which one it would be.

Name one person you would consider a legend and why?

Hermon Mason. He is a veteran and one of the only few minority leaders with Country Financial.

AMY MCCOY, YOU ARE A LEGEND. :012