sain-city magazine vol.2 by jeff stfleur

FEATURED DESIGNER:

SASHA MERET

THEATRICAL DESIGNS FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY

SUMMER STYLES

DATING

DO’S AND DON’TS

INSIDE AUGUST 2012 | VOLUME 2 | FASHION FUSION | WWW.SAIN-CITY.COM ABOUT SAIN-CITY: -Pg 5 COVER FEATURE: “Steel passion” -Pgs 20-25 POETRY: -Pg 39 FITNESS: -Pgs 46-51 HOROSCOPE: -Pgs 70-71 COMMUNITY: -Pgs 66-69

ARTICLES:

Artist: Kaori Nik By: Daood Obaid LOVE COMPLICATED By: Rose-Marie Cameron Music Talent: Ife Thomas By: Daood Obaid “THE DESCENDENTS” By: Daood Obaid 5 DATING DUE & DON’TS: -Pgs 36-37 Authur: David Alvin By: Christina Baptist

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SAIN-CITY MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Acacia Shanklin: 14-17 Arnaud Prevost : 62, 63 Barry Druxman: 32, 33 Robert Coppa : 18,40, 64

Olga Zavershinskaya: 54, 55 Eliezer Infante: 70 MODELS: Rose Lily - COVER Annie Ye-2 Ewelina Ewa -4 Lilit Bagdasaryan -6, 7 Lauren Amanda -22 Danni Wang -34, 36 Carolyn Leona -37 Erica Ortiz -42,43 Jacques Laventure -46-51 Vitoria Setta -56 Proverb Taylor - BACK PAGE Contributing Hair Stylist: Ashkey Lenee -Pgs Cover, 6, 7, 14, 17, 22, 24-27

Retouch: PAPARAZZI

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SAIN-CITY PRODUCTIONS

Sain-City was created to illuminate the beauty

within and around us. We aim to bring light to the precious things that we often overlook; such as self worth. Through photo therapy, we plan to let people experience the real feel of Elegance and Glamour. With education and exposure, we as a human race can learn to appreciate our differences. Allowing our creativity and imagination to break through the barriers of ignorance.

Creative artistry is limitless with Sain-City. We

deliver custom concepts through Make-up, Styling, and Photography. Not bounded by Age, Shape, or Color; Sain-City aims to set a new standard in the hearts and minds of the people.

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Tell me about one of the most Important projects youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked on? >The most important project to date was the Model-Art Collection where I showcase a years worth of work with other artists in Chicago. It was a big success and pleasure collaborating with so many talents. I creative directed the project as well as performed hair and makeup skills in various styles.

What do you like most about what you do? >I love the enjoy the fast pace change in clients, in settings and in opportunities. One day I could be working on hair for clients all day and the next I could be working on a film with different artists, the next day I could be doing makeup for a wedding, its exciting. It an honor providing my service and helping my clients achieve what they desire. On the flip side I love hosting art shows

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your work? >Im a 24 yr. old visual artist specializing hair, makeup and art direction. I love fine arts and creating conceptual pieces with my artistry. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m motivated by the power of transformation inside and out, especially of the youth.

and getting people to see art from a fresh perspective with what I do.

What sets you apart from other visual artist? > The way I mesh the fashion aspects of hair and makeup with the fine art perspective is my distinctive

competence. I’m not selling an article of clothing or a

What are some of your future goals as a visual

cosmetic. I’m sharing a feeling, a moment, an energy.

artist? >Eventually I’ll have a gallery and a salon. Art will

I’m actually a big fan of yours. I’ve seen most

be showcased in both. There’s so much more but

of your work. Do you often get recognition

that’s all I can really speak about for now lol

from people that you do not know? >All the time lol I get embarrassed sometimes, but its all love. Im so appreciative when people see me and remember my work and actually speak. It makes me fee like I’m on the right track and my energy is reaching.

Your such a multitalented person. If you had to choose one field to specialize in. What would it be and why? > Hair styling would be my number one but only if I had to choose. That’s where I started and that’s all I wanted when I went to cosmetology school. I kind of fell into makeup because I like to paint, but hair was my first love.

How would you define “visual artist”? > An artist who uses any physical medium to create and embody a vision.

Where can we view more of your work? > @KaoriNik via twitter, facebook, instagram, and linkedin. you can also book at: www.styleseat.com/kaorinik Kaorinik.tumblr.com Ustream.tv/channel/kaorinik Facebook.com/KaoriNik Twitter.com/KaoriNik

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Haute Couture Hair and Makeup

By: KD Nguyen Models: Lauren LW, Precious Little Imanstudios.net

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Photographer: Acacia Shanklin Model: Madison Denomme @ Traque Hair: Ashley Lenee Designer: Matthew Richmond

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Model |- Kastelle Adamson Makeup |- Ellie Page Wardrobe & Styling |- Alice Be Curious Photography & Editing |- Robert Coppa @ 2011.

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SASHA MERET Designer / Sculptor

“ I am attempting to playfully apply Supersymmetry to Fashion. The idea is that Fashion as a viral phenomenon has its origin in a quantum dimension whose coordinates are not ordinary real numbers but a whole new class of concepts that can be thought of as the square roots of zero. (Yeah, that’s allowed in Fashion Quantum). Normally you can’t visualize it, let alone see it, but you can perceive Fashion indirectly: when you rotate an object from a quantum dimension into a ordinary dimension (like the space-time of human causes), the object changes what might have seemed to be its essential character – which was “nothing” – into “something” that ultimately manifests itself as ‘matter” or a billion-worth business. In the same way a particle of force becomes a particle of matter, and vice versa. Thus supersymmetry shows that “fashion” and “matter” or “stuff ” are not essential categories, but the same thing viewed differently. So in this manner a cloud of probabilities gathered from some obscure universe can materialize into a handful of glitter on a bizarre outfit that could baffle even an educated audience. The theory has the disadvantage of being unable to describe the real world; however, it is a theoretical physicists’ version of C. elegans, having a purity that makes it a convenient test-bed for conceptual experimentation.” -Sasha Meret info: info@sashameretdesign.com media inquiries: press@sashameretdesign.com

To Learn More:

http://www.sashameret.com http://www.sashameretdesign.com Facebook http://facebook.com/sasha.meret

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STEEL PASSION NAUGHTiLX Collection By: Sasha Meret

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Love

complicated

Ladies, do you remember your first boyfriend. How wonderful it was in the beginning; you would write both your names on a piece of paper just see if you were compatible. You would call him every day and play the “no you hang up” game. You could not wait to see him. You envisioned your perfect wedding and even started calling yourself Mrs. “whatever” his last name was. That’s when love was at its best, It was innocent and precious. You thought for sure that he was the one. You felt feelings for him you never felt before. You went home and told all your friends, and families. Some may have called it puppy love, but we just knew in our minds that it was the real thing. The best thing since your life started! Then what

Fairy tales have one thing in common in end the girl/ guy gets “The happily ever after”. In reality it rarely happens that way. There’s always a glitch in the plan. As children we are led to believe that when we meet the right one it will all make sense and all the hard work you put into your relationship will pay off….but why should we have to work that hard for something that is supposed to happen naturally. We don’t work hard to breathe the air, nor do we work hard to walk, skip or run and these things come to us without even thinking about them. Why does love have to be

so complicated ?

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happens? you find out he’s going out with another girl while dating you! or your best friend who you confided in now wants your man….you go home and give yourself a good cry and say to yourself “no one will ever hurt me again”. Then you build up a wall to protect yourself, just to end up with a broken heart. That wall eventually gets higher and higher until the right man comes along needing a ladder just to see what you’re really like on the inside. We may never learned to let go of the hurt and bring ourselves back to the very beginning when love was not so complicated.

Gentlemen do you remember the first

girlfriend. Perhaps she is a distant memory for you

ships. We learn from those to never tell your friends

because any girl that came after her had to pay a pretty

about your man/or girl. And from there every other

price to be with you. Perhaps you didn’t get as emotional

relationship we go in and out of we never heal. We al-

as us ladies did with our first but you found yourself

ways take a piece of it with us. Just think to yourself how

doing things for this girl that have never done before.

many times a have you heard yourself say that “when I

Whether it was waiting for her after school, holding her

was with so and so he /she would do this to me” dozens

hand our even acknowledging her to other people as

of times, because the hurt is always going to be fresh into

your girlfriend was a big step. You would hold her bag,

our mind. We make the new people in our lives pay for

say nice things to her….every now and then when you

the mistakes of the past instead of just living into the

got your allowance or your little paycheck from you job

now. Love is complicated because we make it that

you would buy her something nice just so she would

way. We are hardly honest about the things we want

know that you are thinking about her. You told all your

and don’t. We always say we want honesty and loyalty

boys about how great she was and how hot she looked.

but most people do not know how to make that happen.

You would give the big ole Kool-Aid grin from ear to ear

When you say you love someone it should be uncondi-

when you would see her walk by. Every day you are on

tional. Past loves shouldn’t matter they are in the past

the phone with her and OMG when you finally tell her

and bringing them up is only saying to our new loves

you love her it is almost as if it all made sense to you. But

that we are not

then the unthinkable happens, she breaks your heart. She

really ready to move forward. Let’s stop complicating the

either dumps you for one of your boys, she only wants

relationship. Give yourself time to heal and regroup and

money from you or she just wasn’t that into you. So what

go on. Stop carrying unnecessary baggage, if that man or

do you do now. You protect yourself from every woman

girl is no good for you leave him/her alone…because the

you think is going to hurt you. You try to get to them be-

more to travel behind the one that’s no good the less you

fore they get to you. You become the player. This is where

will be able to see the one that is great for you. Love is

love becomes

complicated because we are complicated. Give your heart

complicated.

a good spring cleaning and your will see how uncompli-

The mistakes that are made in our very first rela-

cated love can be.

tionship are the mistake that shapes our future relation-

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Model: Rosely M. Designer: Isidoro Tabarez Hair/ MUA: K.D Nguyen ST Retouch

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Danni Wang

1) tell me about yourself? I’m 20 years old. I’m originally from China. I moved to the states when I was 13yrs old. I started modeling at 16. My first passion is acting. I’ve always wanted to be an actress. I do love modeling but unlike other models I don’t feel the pressure like I need this to make money. I get paid for some the things I do and I do freelance work. It helped me build up my portfolio. I get to meet new people and I feel that all my experiences are helping prepare me for my acting. 2) What type of model are you? I’m a very versatile model. I started doing glamour shots then got into beauty work for face. I do lingerie, fashion, and lifestyle. I’m open to try new things. I’m able to use the lifestyle shots for my acting. I don’t meet the required height to be a runway model so my fashion shots are good. I’m 5’7 so the photos disguise that I’m 2 inches less than the required height. 3)do you feel it was hard to become a model? Honestly, most Asian girls r skinny already and there are many Asian models. I believe getting into modeling was not hard at all. Before I get into it I never thought about taking modeling this far let alone becoming one. When I did get into it, I felt like this was the beginning to something good. Modeling increased my confidence and change the way I thought of myself. 4)who and what influenced you to get into modeling? The truth is, I had just came to the US and my mom wanted me to make some friends. She saw an ad in the newspaper for an A Asian pageant. She told me to go so I can meet girls my age and become friends with them. I thought it was worth the try. At the competition I became first runner up. My mom motivated me but the pageant opened the door for me into modeling but acting is where my heart is. 5). Where do you see yourself and 5 years? Short and sweet I see myself successful in both modeling and acting. I want to do both 6)what has been your most biggest accomplishment in modeling? Every time I do an event it feels bigger then the last one I did. My excitement grows Every time. But if I had to choose the pageant was my biggest accomplishment. It gave me the confidence I needed and the tools to use in the modeling world.

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Model: Maddy Hellyer Makeup & Styling: Dave Reid Flowers: Dave Reid, Adi Watters & Kate Ahmad Photography & Editing: Robert Coppa.ÂŠ 2011.

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5& DATING

DO’S DON’TS

1) Do: desire something more than momentary pleasure. Don’t: think too far ahead.

Remember that a date is a date, not a marriage and not a commitment. It’s a time where both parties get to enjoy each other’s company while learning about one other. If your date leads to something more intimate, such as sexual relations, it’s perfectly okay. But intimacy is not a contract; do not see this as an opening for relationship or marriage. It’s okay to desire something more, but make sure that your needs and wants are made clear.

2) Do: let your expectations be known.

Don’t: Settle for less than you desire.

Remember, don’t try to over think things; your date is not a mind reader, so verbalizing what’s on your mind is the key to communication. Let your expectations be known early in the dating so there is no misunderstanding. Be clear about what dating means to you.

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3) Do: take time to get to know the person you’re dating. Don’t: make yourself too available.

Remember that dating is an important asset in gaining knowledge about a person, once you defined what dating means to you, you can than communicate that with your partner, and find out what dating means to them. Remember while dating can range from once a week to a few times a week, do not make yourself too available to your date. Making yourself too available can send out the message of desperation and neediness.

purchase small trinkets of appreciation. 4) Do: Don’t: splurge on your date.

Take dating as the time to let your romantic side out, feel free to purchase flowers, chocolate, but do not go on a shopping spree for your date. This might send the wrong message and your date might start to expect this type of treatment all the time, and while it’s perfectly acceptable to show you care, you don’t want to be used for your affection.

5) Do: allays tell a friend or family member where you are going on your date and with who. Don’t: tell all your family and friends about every details of your date.

If you didn’t know family members and friend can be the end of a pending relationship, volunteering too much information can lead to your destructions.

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A TREE AGAINST THE WIND

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I HAVE SEEN SO MANY SUNSETS SO MANY TIDES, BOTH LOW AND HIGH FELT SO MANY RAIN FALLS. BEEN STILL SO MANY NIGHTS I’VE DANCED WITH THE WARM AIR. I’VE SMILED FROM WITHIN. PERHAPS THAT’S WHY I’M CALLED “A TREE AGAINST THE WIND”. I’VE RADIATED LAUGHTER I’VE LEAKED SO MANY TEARS I’VE TREMBLED WITH ANGER I’VE FROZEN WITH FEAR. I’VE BEEN A MUSE, A TRUTH, AN INCONVENIENCE, A WITNESS, A LINE OF DEFENSE, AN ORIGINAL SIN. THAT’S WHY I’M BETTER KNOWN AS “A TREE AGAINST THE WIND”. I’VE BEEN FREE IN THE FIELDS WITH TWILIGHTS FIREFLIES AT SEA WITH DUSK’S FEEDING FRENZY. IN CITY STREETS WITHOUT A DIME AND SUFFOCATION WITH ENVY AT THE SILVER LINING OF WHITE PUFFY CLOUDS; WHO WOULD NOT LET ME IN. SO NOW I STAND WITH THE DEEPEST ROOTS “AS A TREE AGAINST THE WIND”. BY: GENNIFER WECKER

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All parts of the body which have a function if used in moderation and exercised in labors in which each is accustomed, become thereby healthy, well developed and age more slowly, but if unused they become liable to disease, defective in growth and age quickly.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hippocratesâ&#x20AC;?

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JOQ

FITNESS

RETHINK FITNESS

.COM

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A: Keep your

weight on your heels, not your toes, for the entire movement

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Jacques@joqgear.com Jacques@joqgear.com

DUMBELL SQUATS

Jacques@joqgear.com

B: Keep your torso

as upright as you can for the entire movement, with your lower back naturally arched. Stick your chest out. The tops of your thighs should be parallel to the floor or lower.

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A: Brace the abdomens, keep the back straight and lift the

weights straight up then down again in a controlled manner. The arms should go no higher than parallel with the shoulders. Slightly less is OK. Breathe in to start. Breathe out on effort.

Jacques@joqgear.com

This is an advanced exercise with a reputation for building back and shoulder muscle. However, you need to ensure you have a strong lower back and previous experience in weight training before adding this to your program. You must keep the back straight and not curved over and the shoulders square. You should not raise the weights beyond the line of the shoulders nor bend the wrist excessively up, down or to the side. You should keep the dumbbells at shoulder width apart in the lift. Do not lift heavy with this exercise unless you are experienced and trust your shoulder joints and back. Shoulder impingement can be a problem with heavy weights and, or, poor form. If pain or inflammation occurs, cease the exercise

Try to keep the wrists from excessive movement down or to the side. Don't squat down and up after the initial pose. No movement of the legs occurs. Keep bent over until all repetitions are complete.

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Model: Natalia Safonova

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Hair / MUA / Styling / Photographer: OLGA ZAVERSHINSKAYA

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Model: Vitoria Setta

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Model/ Creative Director: Yasinabdur

Ife Thomas

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“…Its soul music, with R&B and jazz touches…” Ms. Ife Thomas Ife Thomas is a compelling artist that promises to provide an artistic Approach to her music craft. I simply listened as she talked about her music and life.

've been promoting my EP called "Crescendo" and I worked with DJ Dodge a cat from London, and Darius Rashad out of Chicago which was released in 2010. My voice is pretty unique, in that I don't sound like what's out right now. The entire whole package is very unique from my look, to my song choices, to my presentation. I approach music from a space of what I want to talk about, combined with the context of what I am going through in my life at that time. Also, I always want to push myself and do fresh, new things musically. Life and what touches my spirit or resonates in my heart in a particular moment inspires my music. Its soul music, with R&B and jazz touches; very melodic and quality, with compelling lyrical content. I’m progressive, classy, classic, unique and focused; extremely creative and free. Sometimes, I work from an idea or specific topic or concept, but usually it comes down to what the music dictates to me. It will tell you what it needs; all I do is listen and let it come through me. I love, 80s & 90s pop and R&B, jazz, Brazilian...I love Chante Moore, Prince, Angela Winbush, George Michael, Stevie Wonder. I can't name them all, but I love artists who write well and tell stories in ways that impact the listener.

Obstacles & Lessons learned From The Industry

Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has been tough. Getting people to really take you seriously and put money and/or support behind you always forces you constantly be resourceful and creative. Everything is about relationships and who knows you. You're a brand and a commodity, which is separate from

your art. You have to really accept that and not take it personally if you don't get what you think you deserve or what you might be envisioning for project. People may also like your music, but most of the time, if they don't see how they can make money from it, they won't deal with you. Also, there is no way around the work and being consistent. Music Industry & it’s future outlook: Not as much as they should. It's really 80% business and 20% everything else. Also, things have changed and continue to evolve, which forces artists to really work harder in a different way. But, the basics never change: never sign anything that you haven't read, and always have a solid attorney. If it were up to me, the whole thing would restructure itself to have more parity between the artist and everyone else. I think it should be more partnershiporiented from distribution, to promotion, to radio... across the board. If everyone can win, then everyone has an equal vested interest instead of the traditional structures that milk the artist for our art, but we are the ones who benefit the least monetarily. Radio is also too corporate, dirty and narrow. I would change the whole system around charts, breaking new artists and who decides how songs get played. That's a start... Obviously, the internet is forcing labels and companies to find other ways to recoup their money, and making artists give away more music for free to build and maintain their fan bases. I don't know if the record label will totally disappear, but it's going to have to overhaul its business model. Technology is constantly innovating more direct and consumer-driven ways to get music to the masses, but it's a question of the buying masses to catch up. Marketing The Music & Who She Would Collaborate With: We utilize all of the social networks and the internet, but still do good old-fashioned meet and greets. People still want to see you, touch you and have a hard copy CD of your album that you can sign. Word of mouth is still the best advertising, but we also like to give people powerful imagery that we attach to the brand. People really respond to my photo campaigns and the visual aspect of my art, which has been amazing.

I'd love to do projects with Ne-Yo and Bruno Mars. They both are brilliant writers and make classic, contemporary music. I think they also have no boundaries creatively, which would be fun and challenging to explore. I'd also love to work with Eric Benet, Mint Condition, Common and Frank Ocean. The Producer She Would Love To Work With: Pharrell because he's so free artistically. There are some classic producers I'd love to work with, but really I'm open to whoever gets me musically, is creative, progressive and will bring out the best in my instrument. I always want to grow and stretch, so I have no limits. You never know who will help you create the next thing. “Mocha Mellow” The next video is going to be for the song "Mocha Mellow", which is an acoustic guitar piece that tells a great story. The song is based on a friend of mine who fell for a singer and I produced it. The version that will be on the album will be co-produced by Zach Cutler, who will also be playing guitar on it. “The Bronze Venus & Project Plans for 2012” The forthcoming album is going to be tentatively called, "The Bronze Venus." The basic concept is to put out songs that I've had for some time that really reflect my musical influences. It's a soulful, love tale album that, musically, reflects the songs I grew up listening to through the eyes of a lover. To travel and promote the album all over the world; put out a few more innovative videos, and expand the brand in a few other areas with my acting and jewelry line. www.IFEMUSIC.com www.twitter.com/ifesingser

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Artwork By: ARNAUD PREVOST

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Model |- Erica Foster Makeup |- Kirsten Pawlicki Headpiece & Accessories |- Deejay Jukic Photography & Editing |- Robert Coppa ÂŠ2012.

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“As a Mother I have many children now since we have started this nonprofit and I love them all very much.” Nehanda Sankofara Mothers for Africa have started the child sponsorship program in the Congo because 80% of children in the Congo cannot afford to go to school because public school is not free. We have also mimicked the micro loan program. We have done all of this from grassroots efforts. Grassroots money is very sweet, however to really make a difference we need more funds. We have gain the attention of some very prominent Doctors who are currently including Mothers for Africa in their grants to return to the Congo and provide fistula surgeries for rape survivors. My name is Nehanda Sankofara, I am an African American Woman born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I have traveled to countries in to Africa and in the African Diaspora.

In 2005 I was invited to return to Ghana by a

local Chief I met who was fascinated with my knowledge of Africa. He invited me back to be instooled / installed as a Queen Mother in his village. My Mother and I were very impressed with our treatment however very sadden by the state and living conditions of the people. In my travels of the Africa Diaspora I found deplorable conditions a common plight for Black people, which includes the United States. Out of the twenty poorest countries in the world 18 of them are in Africa, and the other two are in Haiti and Nepal. Outside of Nepal the common denominator was that they were Black people. The richest countries in the world were all in the west that ironically became rich because of the slave trade of African American people and the exploitation of Africa. Also, I had read articles over the years of the abuse by non-profits in Africa. Ironically while I was being instooled as a Queen Mother, Katrina hit Louisiana and we all know how many of the major nonprofits failed the people of Louisiana. I began to think what I could do; I was just a single mom myself. I came up with the idea of starting our own nonprofit, Mothers for Africa the Nana Sekyiaabea Foundation. My Mother picked out the name Mothers for Africa because we were both mothers. My Chief picked out Nana Sekyiaabea after a Queen who left with missionaries during the 1800’s never to return. She is who I was named after Queen Mother Nana Akosua Sekyiaabea. My Mother and I first started off sending our income tax return to our new village once a year to sponsor children to go to school and help build a school. This stopped in 2010 after I decided to travel to Haiti and see how we could help.

I have traveled there 3 times since the earthquake and our organization has ship supplies there; I began a sponsorship program for children to go to school and eat because public school is not free so most of the children are illiterate. We also started a micro loan program for women who lost their business during the earthquake. Both programs are running very well and we can see a big difference in the children who are sponsored. In August of 2011 I decided to travel to the conflict zone of the Congo to ascertain for myself why this conflict is actually occurring. I was very afraid but I had faith that everything would be alright. I arranged my trip with Congolese friends which include the son of Patrice Lumumba who is a very dear friend of mine. The people were very kind to me. I interviewed hundreds of rape survivors and victims of the genocide. I interviewed the poor, the wealthy the high bishop of the Catholic Church, Doctors and nurses and they all told me the same thing when I asked them how Americans could help the Congo. They all agreed on helping them to get rid of the rebels, help them find peace, get rid of the NGO’s and the U.N. They advised me that the U.N. Soldiers are contributing to the rapes. Some in the U.S. have been alarmed with my findings, but these words came straight from the people’s mouth. It was a very interesting finding because the Haitians are making the same allegations hundreds of miles away. I would have never received this information if I had not traveled to these countries. I was able to meet with Congresswoman Karen Bass and provide her a report of my findings for a hearing that happened in February 2012 on the Congo.

The African Union has put a call out for Africans in the Diaspora to engage one another in trade and commerce to truly help the descendants of Africa which I think is a wonderful idea. To help with this effort Mothers for Africa has designed a program for African American youth and African descendant youth from the Caribbean’s, Central and South America who were also brought to their countries during the slave trade to travel to Ghana. The purpose of this trip is to partner them with Ghanaian youth for a future in trade and commerce. They will go to school with Ghanaian students and establish a viable business that will not only empower our communities but empower the community in Ghana and work together as equal partners.

While we prepare for this trip we are providing classes to our youth on the history of Ghana and Africa. We just had our first award ceremony were we had our youth do a play about the history of Africa starting from ancient Egypt this play had people in tears. Part true and part embellished to help them develop public speaking skills while it taught them about their history. Thanks to Dr. Zyra McCloud and the California Delegation of the Black Congressional Black Caucus we shall be taking our children to Washington D.C. in September. We have seen quite the positive transformation in our youth. I am so incredibly proud of our children. Insert picture along with the statement would probably be conducive for the following below statements: 140 elderly rape survivors in the Congo who walked for miles to tell me their stories of torture; most of them needed fistula surgeries.

Mothers for Africa the Nana Sekyiaabea Foundation President Nehanda Sankofara (Nana) P.O. Box 6579 Altadena CA, 91001 2061 N. Los Robles Ave. Ste 205 Pasadena CA 91104 626-710-6676 / FAX & Office 626-710-4304 www.MothersforAfrica.org

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David Alvin (Author)

completed in four weeks. “The Book of Numbers” is a historical novel based on the May seem like the average guy, but Book of Testaments from the Bible in which there’s nothing ordinary about his mind. This goes into how the children of Israel became a sci-fi savvy has shown that big things do hapnation. It’s based on scripture accounts. When pen in small towns. David once lived in Ilasked what his biggest challenge was, David linois and now lives in Minot, North Dakota answered that it was time; time to do what with his wife of nine years, Martha, along with needs to get done; time to say what needed to his two children, Sarah (age 6) and Jeff (age 4). be said. In order to overcome the challenge of Professionally, David Alvin is an office mancompleting his work, he wrote things as they ager for an office loan company which he has occurred. “Sometimes you just have to focus been with for 9 years. yourself ”, is what he believes has carried him Working mainly from home, he can be quoted through the grueling process of completing saying, “the best way to start something is to and perfecting his craft. just start.” This led him to writing his first David really credits his family for inspiring his science fiction novel titled, “Progeny” which work just by being themselves. His most rehe completed in 2004. “Progeny” leans more cent venture is having gone into business with toward superhero fantasy in which the main his wife several months ago distributing Shakcharacter, Zenia escapes from a concentralee Health and Wellness products. He is able to tion camp and battles supernatural characters balance his life through managing his time and and elements. David originally began writing simply doing what he loves with those he loves. the book in high school in the late 1980s and Surprisingly according to David, these projects initially never finished writing. The project don’t seem to take up too much of his time. was temporarily abandoned until he became David Alvin’s work can be purchased on inspired through reading other fantasy and sci- Amazon.com. To find out more about David, ence fiction novels to write a better story with you can check out his page on Facebook.com better characters. by typing his name “David Alvin”, or by visitOnce completing his first opus, David went ing ensign183.multiply.com. on to write “Legacy”, in 2005 which is more of a supernatural/science fiction novella. David wanted to create an interesting story in which Stargate meets X-Men. “Legacy” presents a slate of new characters and new situations in comparison to “Progeny”. With the birth of his daughter, Sarah, “Legacy” came to final fruition just after a year in 2006. David wanted to leave a legacy behind that his children could look at as they grow up and be proud of their father’s creative mind. Among other project, which includes writing Devotional Bible studies, David has taken on writing “The Book of Numbers” which he

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else may realize. You also have a tendency to constantly hold back. Loosen up and live!

Aries March 21 - April 19 You’ll learn a lot from your interactions with family and friends that will help you with your future networking ventures leading to abundance in prosperity. You’ll also share knowledge that will touch others in the most profound way. At times, your schedule may appear a bit heavy. Be careful, as to how you prioritize and do not fret! In time you’ll see your ultimate plan begin to fall into to place. Also, try a new look. You’ll be amazed of how beautiful you are.

Gemini May 21 -June 20 You’ll find that you will be meeting a lot of new people. Keeping an open mind will not only help you receive good advice that will benefit you in the near future, it will also strengthen the connections you make with others. You’ll need to have a fresher point of view, in order to make the best out of the opportunities that await you. While things may get hectic for you, remember to always stay organized. At times you may feel that you want to establish control in your social group, don’t! Less control is far more attractive.

Taurus April 20 -May 20 Be mindful of your spending habits. If you think you may have a problem beyond your control, seek help. Examine the goals you may want to accomplish and focus on completing them. YOUR GAME PLAN: Self-Development! Become a better you, even if it means starting from scratch. If you’re on the search for love, you may find yourself being over critical. Don’t do it to yourself! Your beauty runs deeper than you or anyone

Cancer June 21 -July 22 Lately there has been a lot on your mind but you can’t figure out the best way to clear it. Try this! Seek help. Whether it is a therapist, counselor, friend or family member, someone is there to lend an ear. There is no better time than the present to make change

happen, but change can only begin with you. You don’t want to talk to anyone. Fine! Jot it down in your diary. Your secrets, thoughts and feelings are safely kept there. Lending a helping hand to others can also help. It will not only keep you active, it will also keep you motivated to feeling better. Under no circumstance ignore your issues; the “you” that everyone loves depends on it.

Leo July 23 -August 22 Great advice awaits you! So utilize it. Share your wisdom with others. You’ll be surprised of the impact. You’ll notice your relationships growing closer. Embrace this closeness, it doesn’t happen too often. You may find yourself in charge of a huge social event or even taking on a new leadership role in an organization you affiliate yourself with. These changes lead to bigger accomplishments, so kudos to you. Try not to bury yourself with work. Remember to love yourself before anything else!

Virgo August 23 -September 22 Powerful like-minded individuals are available to you to help you advance your career. Networking is key! But, for you it’s crucial. Visit as many open forums, group social and business social events, as possible, to meet new contacts. Be sure that these events are in line with your “bottom-line”. You don’t want to waste any time. Utilize your superior communication skills to get your points across. But, be mindful that listening to others is key to effective communication. Be firm on your standing on certain issues. You know what you want and you know how to get it. Take advantage of your most attractive feature.

Libra September 23 -October 22 Focus, on yourself! Broaden your range of knowledge, and skills. Alter your perception a bit, especially, on things that you’re not completely sure about. You can be clear and very helpful in the way and what you

communicate to others. People do value your opinion, possibly even more than you know or may realize. Setting new goals for your future is very important at this time. Consider all options! Leave nothing out. You’ll find that you’ve changed significantly in the way you think and feel. You may even want to open your heart to a higher power. Go for it! You got nothing to loose.

Scorpio October 23 -November 21 Get out there and make new friends. Whether you just want to help or you just want to explore your passion, join a group or organization of your choice. Try reading up on something new that you may want to know more about. Push your thinking through opening your mind. Bend a little! Get away from your comfort zone for a bit. Ask questions to receive that knowledge. Be and stay confident. Embrace that “glow” of prosperity within. At times you’ll feel confused, but don’t let you tendency of feeling this way get the best of you.

Sagittarius November 22 December 21 Be all about balance! Stability within yourself is necessary to be stable with others. Communication is also key, especially with those you care about. Allow yourself to show compassion towards others. This is the only way you would be able to openly express ideas and get over issues that may stop you from getting closer to someone. Try to refrain from being all about you in any given situation. Consider, what others are expressing to you first and allow them to express their viewpoints before you spill yours. Minimize as much conflict as possible. You’ll find that you’ve made so much progress, even when you have no faith in your abilities. Don’t allow those feelings to overtake you. You’re so much better than that!

is a huge possibility that you may not complete all your tasks at hand. You’ll find yourself being bombarded with new tasks, projects, meetings and conference calls. At times, you’re attention will be diverted from fulfilling your job requirements. Don’t take too much on! Pass on some work to others and let them take the lead for a change. You’ll be better able to focus on “you” for a change. You’ll find yourself in the middle of a lot of gossip. Your best bet would be to stay out of it, especially if it has ABSOLUTELY nothing to do with you. If you choose to entertain others this way, there will be mountains of unnecessary stress piled on to your current issues. Stress-free is what you want and need.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Capricorn December 22-January 19 There is so much work ahead of you, and there

Love is in the air! Whether it be for someone else or yourself, you will definitely be feeling the love. You will find yourself intrigued often by new ideas and ways of thinking. Your originality will shine heavily through and create a positive impact. People will learn from you and you will learn from others. You’ll find

yourself being very busy in your social life. Just be sure that you fit some “me time” into your already tight schedule. Your attraction level is high! You’ll meet some one with potential but remember that sincerity is the only thing that can close the deal.

Pisces February 19 -March 20 Stop! You’re being too critical of your mate. You’re being too judgmental towards those in your social circle People around you will start to feel like you are trying to establish control over them. You’ll watch them as they begin to pull away. You’ll watch them as they begin to stop confiding in you. Conflict is high. It’s not easy to put a positive spin on your thoughts or resist gossiping about others who confided in you, but you really should try harder. Everything you do, all aspects of your life, relates to each other. You are causing yourself to be misdirected. Stop!

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SAIN-CITY MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012

Model: Proverb Taylor