What's Happenning Now? New York Mag 2015

PROMOTING UNITY THROUGH DIVERSITY IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY

TIANA VON JOHNSON POWER HOUSE

RECOGNITION ‘All Woman In Business’ LIL PRODIGY Montrell Dean Maura

OUT OF THE BOROUGHS Lady Loe

BEATING THE ODDS Joan Randall Lila Green HERE & NOW Ebbonasia

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WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Contents Women Empowered ISSUE # 4 COVER Tiana Von Johnson 16-17 BEATING THE ODDS Lila Green 21 Joan Randall 20 HERE & NOW Ebbonasia Rydamis 18-19 OUT OF THE BOROUGHS Lady LOE 12 RECOGNITION Gina Cuneo-Ramos 23 House of hope 24-25 Jeanette Watner 8 Lynn Rosen 9 Kathryn Hernandez 22 Eileen Shapiro 29 Theresa Kemp 26 Jaliisa Williams 11 Jessy Rodriguez-Melendez 15 Porsha Starr 13 Jessie Joachim 10 LIL PRODIGY Maura 7 Montrell Dean 6 CEO Lourdes bigio 30-31 ADS/PROMO SEV LOUNGE Graphics Sam Romero

Message from the Editor I want to start by saying Thank You to all the amazing Ladies in this issue for sharing their Life Changing Experiences.

It doesn’t matter if you are black or white, gay or straight, because at the end of the day we are all Women Empowered.

Special Thanks to Tiana Von Johnson for gracing the Cover. You are definitely a Power House!

EIC/LOURDES BIGIO

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG EDITOR IN CHIEF LOURDES BIGIO

MARKETING PROMOTION DIRECTOR SUNYDEW ENT EBBONASIA

PHOTOGRAPHER

EBBONASIA RYDAMIS PRODUCTIONS

GRAPHIC DESIGNER SAM ROMERO

In every issue we focus on What’s Happening Now? and “Beating the Odds”, life experiences that one may go through and overcoming those obstacles.

We have “Unity “ where we come together as one to help those in time of need and helping the community.

“Here and Now” unsigned artists trying to reach that mark, and being consistent in investing their time to be heard and seen.

CONTRIBUTING WRITER & INTERVIEWER EILEEN SHAPIRO

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Don’t forget our “Lil Prodigy” Talented kids ages 4 thru 12.

We also give “Recognition” to those that are trying to make a difference.

Through this magazine ,”I AM YOUR VOICE’.

Editor & Chief: Lourdes Bigio

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? NEW YORK MAG DOES NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILTY FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIALS, MISINFORMATION TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS, OR MISPRINTS. THE NEWS CONTAINED HERE DOES NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER OR ITS ADVERTISERS. ADS APPEARING IN THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT AN ENDORSEMENT OR VALIDATTION BY WHATS HAPPENING NOW? NEW YORKMAG FOR PRODUCTS OR SERVICES OFFERED. ALL PHOTOS AND ILLUSTRATIONS ARE COPYRIGHTBY THEIR RESPECTED ARTIST. ALL OTHER CONTENT IS COPYRIGHTED TO WHATS HAPPENING NOW? NEW YORK MAG. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PORTION OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN ANY WAY WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

“LIL Prodigy” He attends a charter school in NYC, he's in kindergarten.

His favorite classes are, math, social study, Greek and Music.

He loves making up beats on his drum machine, Dancing, and creating songs on his iPad.

Montrell Dean

Introducing this extraordinary 5 year old. Who goes by the name of Montrell Dean, but known to the industry as YoungTrell.

At such a young age, this young man is able to make you remember and appreciate the elegance of true talent, great music and captivate all ages.

Young Trell has an independent distributing & distribution deal and a new single on iTunes titled “Not”

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“LIL PRODIGY” MAURA IS 12 YEARS OLD SHE LIKES ARTS & CRAFTS AS A BABY SHE ALWAYS WANTED TO SKATE AND HAS BEEN SKATING FOR 7 YEARS NOW. SHE CHOSE SYNCHRONIZED SKATING BECAUSE SHE IS ABLE TO SKATE WITH HER FRIENDS AS A TEAM.

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JEANETTE WAT N E R Mom was 97 when she died.

She was a mother, teacher and an amazing human being. She gave to charities endlessly.

She worked as a third grade teacher and a librarian at P.S. 219 in Brooklyn. She believed that libraries were the doorway of knowledge and she made me promise to fight for them.

That is why I wrote so many books about libraries. When I wrote,” What Our Libraries Mean To Us,” with my students she made me promise not to stop there. So I wrote more books with my students and alone. Libraries and reading were her life. When her eyesight was gone she lost her sense of purpose.

My mom supported the veterans and other charities with monthly donations. She was a pillar of the community.

She didn’t have lots of friends because her family and her husband meant the most to her. She was an amazing cook and my toughest critic yet I loved her very much. She was a woman of substance and valor.

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When they told her she had kidney Cancer she wouldnt take treatments. She said I refuse to do this.

She was told she had 3 years and boy did she fool them. She lived for an additional 10 years and fought the odds. She was a staunch believer in unions. She fought for rights of teachers and what a job she did. She never waivered. She was a heroine in many ways.

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Lynn Rosen CEO Founder President of Lynn’s Kids International Saving Souls.

have reached out to other students in Oman, Morocco, Sierra Leone and India and have gotten enlightening materials in return.

reopened school libraries that have been closed due to the lack of funding for librarians. They also contribute much needed school supplies obtained Lynn Rosen using her many years of through donations and the sale of experience as a public school teacher Lynn’s Kids Corporation is supported books written by Lynn and her stuin New York City and her background in part by donations from Lynn Rosen dents. as a Social Activist and Book Author that are made possible by the sale of Lynn always has a positive attitude.

Lynn is such an amazing woman with Lynn also founded our sister organiza- her books. All of Lynn’s books are a beautiful mindset, always thinking tion, Lynn’s Kids Corporation. written with children in mind. They tell stories about important issues that about how to uplift herself and others around her. Creative, passionate about Lynn Rosen has reopened school affect the lives of children and everylibraries that have been closed due one around them. By using such iconic her work. She is a born leader who can inspire people to rally behind a cause to a lack of funding for school librarfigures as Mr. Rights in her stories, and really make a difference. ians. Lynn Rosen, our founder and Lynn is able to engage the minds of longtime school librarian, provides young people in a way that keeps their All of Lynn’s books are available on her services along with many of our attention while introducing them to Amazon. volunteers using a project-based matters of global importance. approach to teaching about society’s most pressing issues.

At Lynn’s Kids we focus our efforts http://emmpinc4.wix.com/lynnrosen entirely on the children with respect Lynn and her volunteer staff have to education and self-betterment. introduced the children in her library Lynn and her team of volunteers have classes the concept of collaborative writing. The children from P.S. 135 in Brooklyn have co-authored books with Lynn about the closing of libraries in the city and the idea of what it would be like if there were no libraries at all. Some books contain short stories and poetry, while others contain picture drawings.

One of the most important projects that Lynn has begun in the classroom is her program that teaches the building of cultural bridges. Through various activities, the children learn ways to connect with other students in different cultures and thereby acquire an understanding of cultural diversity firsthand. Our students exchange letters, emails, booklets and souvenirs to identify their different cultures to each other. We use these activities to foster and understanding of diversity through participation. Our students Pg9

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Jessie Joachim Blacksheep Cosmetics was founded on March 6, 2013 by Jessie Joachim.

Blacksheep Cosmetics sells their exclusive cosmetics to the public. Blacksheep Cosmetics also train make-up artists how to become independent makeup artists.

Jessie also known as “Blacksheep” is an educator first. She has been teaching special education for 14 years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and a minor in Education. She also has a Dual Master’s Degree in General Education and Special Education. Presently she teaches in Queens New York.

Blacksheep’s love for make-up began at the early age of 4. She would go into her mother’s makeup draw, and that’s where the magic began. Originally friends and family thought that she would do hair. But her true first loves were music, clothes and makeup.

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Jessie’s love for music is relevant because she would pretend to be a singer and put on her mother’s make-up and act like the stars. She had posters of all her favorite artists up on her bedroom wall. Music was her first love because it soothed her soul.

Despite the negative connotation of the name, Jessie was able to accomplish most of her goals like going to school to get an education, becoming a good mother, and doing what she loves to do.

Jessie’s mission at Blacksheep Cosmetics is to change how people feel about themBlacksheep’s grandmother was her only selves. She wants her customers to love inspiration. She was a seamstress and had themselves first. Makeup is fun! Makeup her own clothing line. She worked just is art. Makeup can only enhance your to make ends meet but she loved making beauty, but it doesn’t make you beautiful. clothes for people. Her grandmother’s face would light up when she saw the reBeauty comes from the inside first, then action on her customer’s face. Her grand- people will notice your beautiful face. She mother taught her the basics of making doesn’t want young girls to think that the clothes. That was all Blacksheep needed. makeup is responsible for their beauty.

Blacksheep Cosmetics got their name from Jessie’s Uncle Eddy. He would call her the Blacksheep of the family. If her Uncle Eddy tried to tell her something, she would rebel and do the opposite. That was the Rosa Parks in her.

blacksheepcosmetics WWW.BLACKSHEEPCOSMETICS.COM

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Jaliisa Williams is a successful self-published author, producer, director, playwright and screenwriter.

In 2014 , she has produced her first To find out more and upcoming play (The Double Wedding) under show please go to: her company Jaliisa Williams Entertainment.

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She released her first two books last year a book of Poetry called Love Is Life and a children’s book called Teach Me My ABC’s & 123’s.

Her goal for her company (Jaliisa Williams Entertainment) is to Inspire and Uplift The Community Through Entertainment

She has also been a ghost writer for various plays and movies for the urban community.

The Double Wedding Stage Play is the story of three sisters and the men who love them.

JaliisaWilliams

JaliisaWilliams

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LADYLOE Hailing from the borough that bred some of the best that hip hop has to offer, Brooklyn in the building, INTRODUCING LADY LOE Lorraine Lynch ,aka Lady LOE attended the University District of Columbia from 19931996, where she graduated with honors and a degree in Psychology.

As a point guard and floor leader, she led Division II in both steals and assists. she averaged 24 points a game, 5 steals and 11 assists, she received a Gold Basketball for scoring over 1000 points in her college career as well as many other plaques for outstanding female athlete of the year and many tournament MVP’S! On February 20, 2015 Lady LOE was Inducted into the UDC Hall of Fame, in recognition of all her accomplishments/ achievements.

Musical influences include The Queen, “Latifah, “ MC Lyte, Biggie Smalls, Jay Z, Kanye West, and a host of other New Yorkers that impacted her flow.

Lady LOE’s parent influenced her initial interest in music. “My parents liked the oldies but goodies, so I began to rap over old school R&B music.

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Lady LOE has now made her home in Washington, DC and has built an enormous fan base within a short period of time. Lady LOE soon found herself making waves in the hip-hop music scene by performing continuously in the local DC, MD, VA (DMV) region. Lady LOE has had the pleasure of opening for the well-known female R&B singer-songwriter Monifah, Project Pat of Three-6 Mafia, Baps of Bad Boy Records, De’Angelo Redman of Making Da Band 4, Scarface, and one of rap’s legends, Slick Rick- The Ruler.

Lady LOE continues to pay dues in her community by being solely responsible for the creation of the theme song “60 minutes of hell” and “Ball Till U Fall” for DC’s own DC DIVAS All Women, All Tackle Football Team!

Check Out the newly released 3rd album “Lyrical ComplexCity” which will be release under Tate Music Group (TMG) in conjunction with Lady LOE’s Independent Label “Love of Earth Entertainment.”

In addition, listen to Lady LOE’s past two collections “On Da Down LOE” and “RAW” digitally available on Itunes, Emusic, and other digital outlets.

Lady LOE’s ambition is to represent the past, present, and the future of the female hip-hop culture!

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Porsha Starr

PORSHA STARR, CEO of Porsha Starr Productions, a lady who wears many hats.

Chief Project Director for Tene Nicole Marketing and PR Firm, Beauty Director of Resilient Beauty Organization, Creative Director for NYC Trendz Magazine, Promotions for Boss Ladies, and Celebrity hair stylist.

This trendsetter has styled the late r&b singer, actress and model Aaliyah, and model, actress and daughter of Quincy Jones Kiddah Jones for Russell Simmons “One World” magazine.

The feisty reality star from Jersey Shore, Angelina.

April Woodard (B.E.T. correspondent), Coco& Breezy celebrity eye wear designers for Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Osborne, etc. Dr. Robi Ludwig from NBC Today Show, actress Sandy Tejada and landed the cover of Height Magazine styling America Next Top Models Ebony (season 1) and Sheena (All stars). Head stylist for designer Thomas Lavone of reality show Jerseylicious, Stevie Boi celebrity eye wear designer to the stars for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, to name a couple.

She’s very passionate about any project that she takes on and is a lover of positive, motivating, energetic people that crosses her path.

Look out world, because this is only the beginning. Her motto is “Life is too precious and short, so LOVE WHAT YOU DO! Pg13

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Jessy

Jessy Rodriguez-Melendez is the proud owner of TM Baseball & Softball Academy with locations in the Bronx, NY, Houston, Tx and further expansion coming this year in Fl. Born in New York to a Puerto Rican mother and Cuban father. She grew up in the boogie down Bronx. A Castle Hill girl at heart who currently resides in Westchester NY with her husband Tony. They have raised 3 beautiful children and have 4 grandchildren.

Jessy along with her husband started TM Academy in 2007 with the expectation of making a difference in their community.

Jessy is admired by many of the kids/ players as the “office mom” for her caring yet strict nature. Often referred to as the “Steinbrenner” of TM!

TM Baseball & Softball Academy Owner

Jessy oversees all the various locations day to day business activities including the running of 12 travel teams. From uniforms to travel plans! In addition she is extremely proud of solidifying their teams non- profit organization TM On Base which now will provide the less fortunate players of the community the opportunity to play at a much higher level than would have been available to them.

She’s a trendsetter as a Latina in a male dominated business but determined to help as many kids in the communities they serve. She and her husband have helped more than 60 players go to college with scholarships through their Bronx facility and are eager to help hundreds more!!!

This Latina is devoted to making a difference!!!!

She has been an intricate part in developing the TM Academy sponsored radio show ALL BASES COVERED. A sports/entertainment radio show which airs every Tuesday at 8pm on inthemixxradio.com She is also working on launching KO & Co. The first ever baseball apparel line for dogs which she developed in honor of her beloved Boston Terrier KO.

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P O W E R WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Dr. Tiana Von Johnson is a serial entrepreneur, motivational speaker, branding and mindset coach, real estate, broker, philanthropist, licensed chaplain, UN Ambassador-at-large and best-selling author of the Mindset Makeover.

At age 27 years old she took a step out on faith, quit her 9 to 5 job and tried her hand at entrepreneurship. Determined to win and faced with many adversities, she generated over one million dollars her first year in business.

After much success as the only African-American real estate broker on Wall Street and one of the most requested female motivational speaker for nearly a decade, Tiana sold her company in a multimillion dollar transaction in 2014 and continues to make power moves in the world of real estate and beyond.

Tiana Von Johnson is definitely a Power House!

Even through all the struggle at a young age, she has proven that with a positive mindset and determination you can be successful.

Tiana, If you could travel back in time of your startup, would you do anything different? if so, what would it be?

You know, this is probably a cliché answer but you know our experiences do shape us, I have been through some things in trying to build a multimillion dollar business, multimillion dollar brand. There’s been some things that has been so hard for me, with any entrepreneur endeavor its not easy, I’ve had to experience going to court, having a bad partnership and not so friendly employees, but, it really gave me the thickness of the skin that I need to really be a successful entrepreneur today. If I’ve had not gone through those experiences then I probably would not be as strong as I am to some of the business challenges that I deal with people today. So I would say nope, trust me there are some things I wished never happened but for the most part I really wouldn’t do anything differently.

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H O U S E WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Ok, being that said, tell me what was your biggest struggle?

I think number one is a partnership, a lot of time people jump into partnership without really understanding what it means. When you partner with someone in the business its no different in getting married. There are some things that you have to put in place, make sure that your partner is able to bring some things to the table that you don’t, you want to have a partner that balances you out and really kind of have the same energy, drive and motivation and sometimes finding that partner is a little hard and Normally partners grow apart. You definitely don’t want to invest long term, so my tips to people who are thinking of partnering is that you definitely want to make sure you have a higher interest in the partnership, you want to make sure that you are able to get out of the partnership where its not going to tie you up or affect you or your brand personally.

So I think partnership is probably my number one thing that happen to me that I would really make sure that any entrepreneur going to have a partnership would really pay attention to and perhaps they are truly involved and make sure that all their contract and things in that sort were right.

What advice can you give to all these woman in business that are going through the struggle?

You definitely want to keep going, keep pushing, and make sure your brand is the forefront of building the business, a lot of time people put their business before the brand and that’s the problem because if your business fails then you have no brand. You have nothing to fall back on for you, I normally encourage all woman to build your brand first, build up your name, that if anything that you try in business does not work for some reason you are still a force to be reckoned with and you are still powerful regardless by just your name alone.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

I would say amongst other things, I would say making my first million dollars at 27 years old, after being a single mother, my son’s father murdered and just dealing with things at a young age that you shouldn’t have to deal with, but life happens, and then you go through things and it forces you to grow up quickly, it forces you to put things in place quickly, it forces you to push forward, but I think those experiences and struggles, as I think about it growing up in the Bronx,

NY, is really what push me to keep going because there’s so many things that happened outside my business that I wanted to quit, and a lot of it came from my issue that I had in the past prior to starting my business and not having money, not having the resources, not having that single person in your life to try push and motivate you.

So, I would say really just being able to push through all diversity and really go ahead and make my first million dollars at 27 I think would be a huge huge achievement that I’m really proud of.

You Motivate and Inspire so many, but tell me who Motivate and Inspire you?

Interestingly enough the people who I service motivates me, I get to know the Oprah’s and woman who do it big, they are good inspiration, but I watch single mothers who work with me or who come to my conferences and events who are doing some of the same things that I did when I was in my twenty’s, really pushing through, they inspire me because the more I can help motivate single mothers or someone who do not have the resources to live their passion and dreams that is what pushes me to say Tiana you keep being great because you are pushier the daily resources to all these women. So as long as I’m breathing I am inspired.

Tell me about Woman Doing It Big and what it means to you?

Woman Doing It Big was something I started almost 6 years ago, and realizing that there were so many people that was being left behind, Meaning I found myself in different circles, I found myself with millionaires & billionaires and a lot of the people that I grew up with and went to high school with, they weren’t where I was, so I felt like I wanted to reach back. I wanted to bring celebrities in with a high profile entrepreneur back into the community. So Woman Doing It Big is an Annual event where we bring celebrities all across the world and we speak to all these women who are ready to take their business, their brand to another level, and really just looking for that spiritual break through, that connection with the right people, amazing networking, good resources and just get the things that can helped them.

What do you enjoy most about all the things you do?

I do so many things but I love helping people build their brand because all the obstacles and challenges that I went through as an entrepreneur, I feel like if I had someone to show me this one thing or teach me this one thing, So me being able to give back to woman in that way so that maybe they can skip pass two years of struggle or maybe if I can put them with the right resources and help someone build their passion and dream, I’m all for it.

Tell me a few key words to be successful?

Motivation, Drive to Win, Determination and Ambition, you need all those things.

Follow us on social media! @tianavonjohnson @womendoingitbig

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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SONG WRITER / PRODUCER Affordable Prices Affordable Prices Contact (347)338-0442 Ebbonasia@gmail.com Contact (347) 338-0442 Ebbonasia@gmail.com Pg18

Ebbonasia

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Rydamis

EBBONASIA RYDAMIS is known for wearing many hats and well respected in the LGBT community.

a dancer as well, she can pick up any dance movement and make it her own.

Ebbonasia has the whole package.

She is the CEO of EBBONASIA RYDAMIS PRODUCTIONS.

Ebbonasia has produced over 100 songs and soon to release her hit single titled ‘AINT NOBODY’.

Photographer of What’s Happening Now? New York Mag. She is also Director of Overdose Prevention/Certified HIV Tester and a Syringe Exchange Specialist.

Ebbonasia passion for music started at the age of 7. Where she wrote her first song dedicated to her Mother titled ‘I Love you Mommy’.

Her passion for music and writing didn’t stop there, as time went on Ebbonasia started performing in front of her family and friends, which encourage her to go on stage and soon became an amazing Artist.

She was, and is a ‘Triple Threat’.

Singer, Song writer, Producer , there was no stopping her and don’t forget Pg19

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Joan Randall, Vice President Store Manager at Macy’s and also Founder and CEO of Victorious You is a successful Charlotte Business Woman. But not so long ago she was trapped in an abusive relationship with her now ex husband.

Joan met her husband in Jamaica and after a long distance courtship, married him and moved to the United States, where she was surprised by his violent behavior. He systematically abused her - from beatings to pouring hot water all over her, kicking her, to threats of killing her and isolating her from friends and family.

She found herself living in a nightmare in a foreign country with an abuser, whom at the time was the sole breadwinner.

Joan Randall

Joan reached rock bottom in her life and marriage and contemplated taking the life of her children and herself. But fate would have a different story to tell. She somehow managed to find the courage through her daughters to run for her life. So on a very cold winter’s night, while he was out, she packed up her car with her daugh- tion to her job and her attention ters and drove out of the home. to detail propelled her to climb the corporate ladder.

Although she left the abusive home, things took a while to get Today, after 23 years with her better and seven months after she company she is a Vice President. left him, she found herself home- Most recently she founded her less. own company, Victorious You, dedicated to Victims and SurviShe sought help and worked very vor of Domestic Violence. She is hard at 2 and 3 jobs to make ends a Keynote Speaker, Life Coach meet. She stood strong on Faith and Advocate. Her platform and and found comfort in writing. As passion is to motivate, empower the years moved on, her dedica- and provide resources to Wom-

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Photography by TouShay

en in Abusive relationships to go from broken to brave, from victim to Victor and become their Best Self. Her story is a remarkable story of overcoming obstacles to being triumphant.

She has proven that with Faith and Resilience, the skies are the limit.

Joan Randall now resides in North Carolina and is remarried to an amazing guy. www.Victoriousyou.org

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Lila Green

Lila Green is the CEO of Caribbean Lilac a Brooklyn web based jewelry company.

Born and raised in Brooklyn and a single mom of 3, she has taken her life from one of tragedy to one of hope and success. A victim of emotional and physical abuse, Lila was able to break the vicious cycle that threatened to continue to cause her depression and stunted emotional progression. Utilizing the law of attraction, she was able to pursue her passions and find her joy. She was able to build a business and gain the respect of her peers. Through her experiences of growing her business, she has been able to inspire and motivate individuals to do the same and to consider making positive life choices. With her first book “How To Be Forward and Learn from Life Lessons”, she was able to touch the lives and hearts of many who needed a jump start to finding their passion and joy. From there, she founded a calender initiative called Hunks4Hope which features handsome and talented male models who grace the publication’s

pages in order to help raise money for victims of Domestic Violence and their families. The organization has donated not only funds, but volunteered time, and goods to various shelters and low income communities in NYC. In addition, Lila Green is currently a contributing writer for the Women’s Empowerment section of Where Itz At Magazine. She vows to continue to inspire, motivate, and support others in pursuing their passions while also empowering and spreading love wherever it is needed.

Dorothy L. Gilbert "Woman of ...the year" award that recongnizes a woman of color who has overcome obstacles while remaining true to the values reflective of Dorothy L. Gilbert; FAITH & FAMILY. The receipient of this award demonstrates leadership not only in her profession but her committment to communtiy and strengthening her family.

Recipient of the 2014 “Woman of the year”

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Kathryn Hernandez Kathryn Hernandez, who is affectionately known as Kitty is Brooklyn home grown, born and raised in this great city, she is the eldest child having 3 brothers and one sister. At 19, she became a young mother to her son Nicholas who is truly the love of her life.

In 1982-1989, Kitty worked as an Administrative Assistant to the Captain of Naval Intelligence. This position was held with great respect for her country and the military.

Part of her responsibilities and duties including attending and participating in Military training programs, The position required Top Secret Security Clearance, which was obtained. At that time she was instrumental in writing the first directive on Sexual Harrassment for the Department of Defense. Kitty worked with the Partnership for Education program for the Defense Department working with inner city youth, to work within the military, During the 90’s she worked for several companies in administrative as well as managerial capacities, along with volunteering with all types of organizations that dealt with underpriviledged children and adolescents. These children/young adults continually broke her heart.

In 2000, she decided to go into business for herself, Self made, self taught and driven she opened a title company that was real estate based.

That was her day job. On Thursday thru Sunday she was a successful bar manager. Learning the ins and Pg22

outs of running a business. In these establishments everyone had a ball.

She would make life a party wherever she was. She truly made lemonade out of lemons. She had a knack of bring people together which inevitably created everyone having a great time, day in and out.

With great thought and some trepidation she decided with a few friends and relatives that she would open her own place. Building it from a machine shop to one of the largest establishments in Parkslope. Through a long hard process of so many bumps in the road the bar/restaurant was able to open. The business allowed her to donate space to many non-profits, small business, new business always helping the community within the slope and more often in other areas try to achieve their goals. Every year Kitty is a sponsor of a coat drive, a toy drive and a back to school drive.

She is a board member and a proud sponsor of Milagros which is a domestic violence non profit. Always providing space for many educa-

tional workshops and seminars regarding a spectrum of topics.

Within the business community she mentors many individuals who may need help or guidance trying to get their business off the ground.

Knowing first hand how isolating it is when things are not going as planned. Her motto in life is ” Pay it forward and Party with a Purpose.”

She lives that daily making her space an amazing party and entertainment venue. She truly practices what everyone preaches ALWAYS lending a helping hand.

Kitty is a proud member of Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, A Board Member of the Milagros Day Organization, Park Slope Civic Council, And The National Association of Female Executives

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Gina Cuneo -Ramos Gina Cuneo Ramos, MS, RN, FNP, is a graduate of Rockland Community College and Dominican College Schools of Nursing. She has been a Registered Nurse for eighteen years, servicing women and children infected and affected by HIV/ AIDS.

She received her masters degree in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner program in 2013 from Long Island University-CW Post and has been instrumental in developing private family centered care clinics and home care programs throughout New York City.

Gina is an active member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN), and a board member of the NY NAHN chapter. She is also an active member of the NYS Nurse Practitioner Association.

Ms. Cuneo-Ramos founded Casa Esperanza in 2006, a 501c3 not for profit organization, with the ambition of providing supportive services for HIV + women who were affected by the ramifications of poverty. With the collaboration of her partner, Takiysha McLeod, MS/MPH, RN they implemented their HIV and Domestic Violence programs in East New York, Brooklyn and are currently developing a domestic violence program in Puerto Rico, made possible by the generosity of the Suarez family.

Their first international mission was to La Casa Rosada in the Dominican Republic, and they continue to provide monetary sponsorship and in-kind donations.

They are currently planning an HIV international mission to Esmeraldas, Ecuador, “The Juanita Project”; engaging sex workers, educating them on condom negotiation, and empowering them to educate their peers.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

It was an emotional and great experience to see such amazing people come together for a great cause.

Fashion House of Hope-Benefit Dinner and Fashion Show was held on May 7, 2015.

An Annual Event to help raise funds to support the organization’s mission to ENGAGE diverse family units and EDUCATE them on available resources, EMPOWER them to provide tools to advance their communities.

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Fashion show provided by Pret A Porter SS 2016 Collection by Fashion Designer and married Duo Alexander Acosta and Co-Creator Michael Hodgins.

Performances by Artist ShiNuh Holt, Edwin Vasquez alongside Bass player James Grover.

Community Partner Award; Awarded to an individual or group who has worked with Casa Esperanza in activities that directly Impact the organizations work with the community of East New York, Brooklyn/or their international initiatives.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Narcisa De Jesus Rubio Jara Scholarship recipient - Cardiel Wright This year recipient is Carmen Worell of BMS in East New York.

Dorothy L. Gilbert “Woman of The Year’ Award recognizes a woman of color who has overcome obstacles while remaining true to the values reflective of Dorothy L. Gilbert; FAITH & FAMILY. The recipient of this award demonstrates leadership not only in her profession but her community and strengthening her family. The 2015 recipient is Dawn Diaz of Milagros Day Worldwide.

Hosted by J.W CORTES Co Host, Latina Ambassadors; Lissette Trujillo-Carrion, Laura Polanco and Kimberley Dole.

The Staff of Casa Esperanza ; Gina Cuneo-Ramos ,MS,RN, FNP, CEO/Founder, Takiysha McLeod, MS/MPH, RN, COO and Stephanie Miller, BS You can visit: WWW. CEPMN.ORG Facebook at Casa Esperanza para Mujeres Y Nino’s,INC

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WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Theresa Kemp Inspired by Love and Positivity, Theresa Kemp thrives from her stimulus to motivate and enthuse others.

Theresa is the CEO/President of Evalutionary Management & Music Promotions (E.M.M.P.Inc).

The 2015 Outstanding Woman of the Year for Community Service recipient has lived a life of conquest and tenacity that shines bright to all who meet her. motivate and inspire. Not only has Theresa found that, but for many people Theresa is that. She proves that life is about recreating yourself.

“I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I Theresa was born in Brazil, but didn’t have the heart to let him down raised and currently lives in The and that friend was God. God didn’t Bronx, NY. Theresa is highly inlook at me for medals, degrees or volved within her community and diplomas but for scars. has a passion for helping others.

I may not have gone where I intendShe is most known for her comed to go, but I think I have ended up munity outreach and volunteer where God needed me to be.” services, accomplishments within the music industry, marketing, Contact: emmpinc@gmail.com or advertising expertise, and entreGoogle Theresa Kemp preneurial endeavors.

She is currently the publicist for Lynn’s Kids and Saving Souls.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW ? NEW YORK MAG Presents ‘You Never Know Whose Watching’ A platform for talented Independent Artist of all ages to be Heard & Seen.

A monthly show which will be aired on cable TV network, cablevision, timewarner, rcn, verizon fios. Starting July 2015.

For more info, please email lu.nymag612@gmail. com

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WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG Name:

The Brain Complete the crossword below 1 2

3

4

5

6 7

8

9

10

11

12 13

14

15

16

Across 2. lower part of brain, helps control balance & coordinate voluntary muscle activity.

5. consists of frontal, parietal, temporal, & occipital lobes.

7. connects to spinal cord, controls involuntary muscles & activities of the autonomic nervous system.

8. the control unit for the body’s automatic systems.

10. controls sense of vision, located in back of brain.

11. lowest part of brain stem, monitors & regulates breathing, heartbeat, blood pressure, & swallowing,.

12. collective group of brain structures involved in coordinating the activity of different parts of the brain, regulating emotions & desires.

15. outer layer of cerebrum, consists mainly of nerve cell bodies.

16. located on either side of brain, associated with hearing, taste, & smell.

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Created on TheTeachersCorner.net Crossword Maker Down 1. front portion associated with personality, judgment, & self-control. Back portion controls voluntary movement of the skeletal muscles.

3. within brain stem, the master switch of the cerebrum.

4. just above medulla oblongata, assists in regulating breathing, helps coordinate some eye movement & facial expressions.

6. upper part of brain; coordinates thought, memory, & learned behaviors.

9. located behind frontal lobe & allow you to feel temperature, pressure, & pain.

13. uppermost end of brain stem, sends signals from reticular formation & sensory impulses from parts of body to cerebral cortex.

14. above the pons, help coordinate movements of both eyes, adjust size of pupils & operates lens muscles for eye focus.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

Eileen Palestine Shapiro

IT’S ALL ABOUT ME

My literary journey began at age 19 or 20, while I was attending LIU and majoring in nursing. In an attempt to entertain myself while studying biochemistry, I began watching re-runs of the once popular series “Star Trek”. Somehow I became strangely fascinated with Leonard Nimoy who portrayed “Spock”. I became aware that the series, now more popular than it had ever been, was about to virally explode with the onset of “The Star Trek Motion Picture”.

In my quest for further knowledge on my newly found fantasy I happened into a small city shop called “The Federation Trading Place”, which was dedicated to the fans of Star Trek. Filled with an enormous array of Trekkie paraphernalia, including posters, and books com-

posed by Nimoy himself, it allowed my illusion to flourish. While feeding my bizarre delusion, I met the brilliant proprietor of the store, who gained knowledge of my new found medical experiences. He commissioned me to write an article relating to “Spock” in a publication entitled “The Star Trek Giant Poster Book”.

Successfully done, I began to write for the poster book each month. Then all of a sudden without warning I was asked to write and edit “The Star Trek Medical Reference Manual” which quickly became a best seller. After the book was published and distributed by Ballentine Books, I did my first interview with none other than Leonard Nimoy.

Having fulfilled what I considered my dream, I took a brief hiatus from writing to get married, have three children, and open my own real estate and also my first “Gay” establishment.

Impassioned by the Gay Community and their effervescent life style I made my life’s fulfillment to have danced for more than a moment at the hottest radioactive gay venues in the heart of NYC, partied at the most tantalizing discos on Fire Island, drank pink tinted cosmos at the classiest clubs in South Beach and was kissed on the lips, in the explosive, most diverse gay night spots in London.

Through the acquisition of my own gay nightclub called “The Bunkhouse” I obtained the privilege of producing and hosting one of the most prestigious Drag Pageants in New York called “The Miss Gay Long Island Pageant”, now in its 30th year, an avenue for the very best in drag vying for cash prizes and

the glorious treasured crown worn proudly as a symbol of “larger than life” entertainment.

Aside from my titanic involvement in the world of glitter and glam, I’ve been blessed to have earned “The Best Bar Award”, four years in a row from “Outlook LI Magazine” as well as “Straight Ali Award”. I was also be quested a ‘special writers” award courtesy of Get Out Magazine.

Besides running the Bunkhouse I was able to reignite my first love of writing. Through the efforts of several gay tabloids, I began contributing small articles and interviews for two reputable publications called “PM Magazine’ as well as “Outlook LI”. Eventually I was introduced to Mike Todd the publisher of Get Out Magazine and Lourdes Bigio publisher of “What’s Happening Now? NY” a new and exciting urban publication.

Thanks to Get Out and What’s Happening, each week becomes a new adventure.

Through them I currently celebrate the lives of the slightest inconsequential personalities struggling to “rise” and conquer the entertainment world, as well as the most popular, well know A-List celebrities.

Recently I have spoken to the iconic, platinum recording artists, Ms. “Sweet Dreams” Annie Lennox, who is said to be as elusive as a unicorn. I have had conversations with superstar Brooke Shields, lesbian recording artist Melissa Etheridge, country singer Lee Ann Rimes and pop artists Taylor Dayne, Rick Springfield, Katy Tiz and Cyndi Lauper. I have interviewed Oscar winners such as Mo’Nique, and “Empire” star Jennifer Hudson, as well as TV personalities Michelle Lee of Knots Landing and the comedy troupe “The Impractical Jokers”. I have spoken with the top world famous DJ’s, Boris, Dani Toro, Paulo, Hector Fonseca and the list continues. I have met and interviewed very best of Ru Paul’s Drag Race including Michelle Visage, Sharon Needles, Phi Phi O’hara and Bianca Del Rio. I’ve had the privilege of meeting Buster Poindexter (David Johansen) of the New York Dolls and have even interviewed Michael Musto, one of the greatest columnists of our times, as well as comedians, Sandra Bernhard and Ross Mathews.

Most recently my lifelong dream of meeting two of my life long idols, Billy Idol and Adam Ant have been blissfully fulfilled. I had composed a review of one of Adam Ant’s concerts in Islington, North London and had the greatest honor bestowed upon me when they used the words of my review on the punk star’s new DV movie sleeve.

I was also fortunate to cover “Night of 1000 Gowns” a huge charity event where I met Debra Harry and Jody Watley, whom I also interviewed. It was a great honor when she complimented me on my interview.

I pride myself on my refusal to allow any kind of negativity to taint my writings. I am fortunate to write most of the cover features for Get Out Magazine as well as being a part of the What’s Happening Now? NY team.

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LOURDES WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

BIGIO

I met Lourdes Bigio quite through the hands of fate, and a mutual writer and friend. Upon the inception of our rendezvous, I was impressed with her immediately. She had the entire package going, talent, a look of innocence, a business sense, the right amount of warmth and drive. She was proud of her publication, WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? NEW YORK MAGAZINE, yet humble at the same instance.

What’s Happening Now? New York, is an alternative styled urban entertainment magazine with a twist. It show cases new talent, lil prodigies, places to go, celebrity interviews and more. It is bold, colorful, and innovative. When Lourdes asked me to be part of the team, I was excited. When she asked me to interview her I was honored.

By Eileen Shapiro E. So what inspired you to create your very own magazine?

L. I was the editor of a previous magazine (flyer promo now).

when I have the time, I’m a good mother.....I’m a mother

I created the New York market edition, I promoted it, edited

first! I don’t mind having a few drinks with my friends, hav-

it, I created the magazine as if it was my own. However

ing dinner....that’s fun for me.

there was still someone above me. I met someone shortly after who inspired me to do my own. She convinced me that I

E. You also promote events, correct?

could do it, and here I am.

L. Honestly, I am not a promoter, However, I do promote events that I am affiliated with. I also have another business

E. Where do you come up with your ideas?

(Sunydew ent.) which focuses on intimate accessories, artists

L. You might not believe me, but God. I go to sleep at night,

showcase, event coordinator etc. I also have a T.V. Show.

I pray , and I wake up in the morning with all these ideas in my head.

E. Let’s talk about the T.V. Show for a minute.

L. It’s another platform for the magazine. I also have a new

E. Tell me about Lourdes. Where were you born and raised?

show that I am producing called, You Never Know Whose

L. I was born in Los Angeles, California, but moved to N.Y.

Watching.

When I was 2 years old. I have been here all my life in

E. Love the name.

Brooklyn.

L. Thank you, It’s a cable show featuring talented artists.

They come on and perform because You Never Know Whose

E. What is your life like when your not working on the maga-

Watching. Just because it’s a cable show doesn’t mean that it

zine?

doesn’t have tons and tons of viewers.

L. I stay working whether its on the magazine or other

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projects. but, I am a simple person for the most part. I love

E. Who is your favorite up and coming artist?

spending time at home with my kids and my puppy. I cook

L. My Artist, EBBONASIA RYDAMIS

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? - NEW YORK MAG

E. Are you inspired by any particular established artist?

L. No, and that’s maybe because I’m not an artist. other artist get inspired by other artist. I get inspired by people’s Life Changing Experience.

E. I feel that you are an empowered woman, that you know what you are doing, that you’ve got it all going. Do you feel that you are an indecent woman?

L. Thank you first. I am an independent woman. I work hard in everything that I do. This magazine is my passion. I love that I am able to do anything that I want with it. Especially this issue because it is about empowering women. Hopefully some of the stories in this issues will help other women realize their dreams. We are all mothers, daughters, etc. we all go through things in life. Some go through domestic violence, divorce, and so forth. I wish you could feel what I’m feeling. I’m just hoping that by others experiences and

E. You are wearing a warning label. What does it say?

L. That’s funny Eileen..”I’m a force to be reckoned with E. You’re a new addition to a crayon box . What color are you?

L. I’m a platinum, metallic kind of a person.

E. Perfect answer.

E. What is your favorite quality about yourself?

L. Loyal.

E. Worst quality?

L. I don’t know how to let go.

E. What is the one thing you would want me to know about you?

L. That just because I’m nice and humble doesn’t mean that I can’t be a bitch! I’m understanding, loving but don’t mess with me because I can become cold hearted and a real notch.

E. You go girl!

the fact that they might have conquered their issues, others will be motivated to accomplish their dreams.

E. If I was to see what was in your heart right now, what would I find?

L. Right now my heart is full of emotion. I lost my mom four months ago. Honestly I became cold hearted and numb for awhile, however I’m starting to gain back the warmth . At this time I’m actually becoming content and becoming happy again.

E. If you could trade places with anyone in the world for one week , whom would you want to be?

L. I don’t think I’d want to be someone else. I really love my life. I really do.

WHN?NY

E. Do you believe in love at first sight?

L. Yes. E. If you could take someone with you to outer space who would come along for the ride?

L. I would take my daughter and my son. I wouldn’t go anywhere without them. They are First and Foremost in my Life.

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WHN?NY