March 2015 issue

Sista’s Keeper

I AM my Sista’s Keeper

Accepted...

Now What?

Sistas Accepted To College American Red Cross Month Endometriosis/ Her Yellow Ribbon

March 2015 Vol. 3, Issue 4

Spotlight: Annie Co-star Eden Duncan Smith Plus: Spring Break Things To Do Alternative Spring Break Spring Break Safety College Road Trip

College Issue

Quvenzhane Wallis Annie star rising in the Hollywood universe

In This Issue Spotlight: “Annie” co-star Eden Duncan-Smith

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Book Review

The Princess Within

Keep Rising!

Summit for Girls

40

30

34

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Accepted...Now What?

In this feature, we give tips to high school seniors who have been accepted into college.

Volunteering With Red Cross

March is Red Cross Month and the organization has several ways to volunteer and help others.

College Prep Timeline

36 38

On The Cover (left) Quvenzhane Wallis stars in the remake of the classic “Annie”.

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Promotions/Giveaways “Like” us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter for more info!

You could win a “I AM my Sista’s Keeper” wristband!!!!!

Enter to win by answeing the following question: How old was Quvenzhane Wallis when she was nominated for an Academy Award?

“Like” our Facebook page & tweet us (@SistasKeeperMag) your answer to enter the giveaway. Use the hashtag: #SKGIVEAWAY

Connect With Sista’s Keeper TODAY!!!!!

“Like” our Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/SistasKeeperMagazine

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Sista’s Keeper Vol. 3, Issue 3

Founding Editor/Publisher LaPorsha Lowry Managing Editor Erik Veal Creative Director Yasmeen Parker PR/Marketing Surya Swilley Whitney Martin Social Media Stacie Bailey Contributing Writers Eman Al-Taher Kyla Brown Camile Daniels Alexis Knight Yani Long Whitney Martin Sha’Myua Miles Patrice Rivers De’Shauna Selby Jamiya Turns Special Thanks Jeannatte Ricketts Keishla McClurkin Tanisha Fordham-Alston Alexandria Venus Williams Keep Rising Girls Empowerment Summit Breana Jones Jasmine M. Lewter Crystal Styles House of Cheatham, Inc. Kelly Leonardt-Phoenix Stacie Bailey Ashley Reid Chukwuemeka Anazia Brittany Salter Jesse Lowry Trumaine McCaskill Evan Summerville Greg E. Hill Daniel Lee Lowry Dottie Benjamin Terri Long Darie Wilson Antionette Cody

I AM my Sista’s Keeper

In Every Issue

Health

22

Promotions & Giveaways

4

10 12

Beauty Spring Break Hairstyles Beauty

Spring Skincare: Bye Ashy

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Beauty Spring Nail Trends

18

Fashion Spring Fashion Ideas

20 24

Furaha

Last-Minute Spring Break Ideas Jando

Alternative Spring Break

Maua

Health

Her Yellow Ribbon

Relationships Spring Clean Your Life

Spring Break Safety

Ndege

College Road Trip

26 27 28 29

Black Women In History Dorothy Dandridge

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Calendar

March/ April 2015

What’s going on and what to do this month

Contributors Kyla Brown Kyla is a senior at Johnson C. Smith University majoring in communication arts.

She was born and raised in Queens, New York where she discovered her love for journalism and the arts. She is currently the editor in chief to the Bull’s Eye Newspaper, a student news publication at the university. Kyla believes that in order to fully succeed, you must uplift and encourage others to do the same. She enjoys writing about entertainment as well as feature pieces that highlight truly influential individuals.

Eman Al-Taher

Eman is a recent graduate of UNCC with a degree in Sociology. She grew up here in Charlotte and is Palestinian.

“I have a very bubbly, outgoing personality; I live by my favorite quote “A bad attitude is like a flat tire. You can’t go anywhere until you change it.”. I like to write poetry and belly dance in my free time and am always up for reading a good book.”

Shamyua Miles

Event: Girl Talk Prom Project When: Saturday, April 11, 2015 Where: ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. Seventh Street, Charlotte, NC Time: 10am and 1pm Cost: Free, but registration is required.

Prom Project™ is an effort to collect and distribute donated formal wear so that HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS have the opportunity to feel beautiful for their prom or social. But it’s MORE THAN JUST A DRESS! To learn more about this program or for more information, turn to page 21 of this issue.

If your black teen girl organization is having an event that you want to be featured in Sista’s Keeper Magazine, please email us the information so that it may be featured in the Calendar of an upcoming issue: info@sistaskeepermagazine.com

For more January & February events & updates, visit our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com

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Quaniqua Shamyua Miles is a 22 year old senior at North Carolina A&T State University and studies English (Technical Writing). She is from Raleigh, NC, but currently lives in Greensboro, NC. She has a 2 year old daughter, has dreamed of writing for a magazine for some time, and hopes to one day own her own magazine. She also dreams of starting her own organization to help young girls gain self-confidence and know how to value themselves. She hopes to use her wisdom, talents, and ideas to help make a difference in the world.

Patrice Rivers

Patrice Rivers is a 28 year old native from Virginia who is an author, poet, blogger and writer. She has published three books and is working on upcoming projects such as a children book series. Patrice has been writing since she was nine years old and has a passion for writing poetry. She is a 2009 graduate from Virginia State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts in Mass Communications. Patrice sees herself as a famous author and a Public Relations Specialist for a company.

Jamiya Turns

Jamiya is a junior at Johnson C. Smith University. She have a positive attitude and enjoy inspiring others. In her free time, she enjoys writing and reading great books and attending church and writing positive quotes.

Ife Presswood

Ife is a 20 year old native of Charlotte, NC. She is currently a senior at Fayetteville State University studying Business Administration: Marketing, with a minor study in Dance.

A total fashion and hair-ista (Team Natural Before the Hype), she believes that your hair and how you dress is an extension of your being so #beyou #doyou, cause there is no one else like you! She loves to dance, read, roller skate, and cook.

H

We Celebrate Sistas Going To College

ey sistas! Here we are again with another issue of Sista’s Keeper! I’m happy that we are here for you to hear and I hope that you find something meaningful within these pages to take with you.

This issue is all about going to COLLEGE... preparing in the years leading up to your senior year, figuring out which school to visit and apply to, applying and what to do once you are accepted.

College is a very important time of your life because it sets you up for the future. During my time at North Carolina A&T, I benefitted from what I learned leading up to college as well receiving as the inspiration and support to start this magazine while I was there from 2006-2010.

Quvenzhane Wallis (pg. 30) has become a BIG star in Hollywood at only 11 years old. She was only 9 years old when she was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar. She is a great example of how it is okay to still be a kid and that you don’t have to grow up so fast.

Eden Duncan Smith (pg. 9) is a co-star in Annie and is on her to the top! She played Isabella Sullivan, the oldest of Annie’s foster sisters.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month and we spoke to Cherelle Lawrence, founder of Her Yellow Ribbon about her organization and the importance of learning about sypmtons of this disease that affects women.

In this month’s sections, we will talk about all things Spring Break: last minute ideas, volunteering, staying safe during your vacation and taking a road trip to college.

As always, if you want to contact me of have any questions about the magazine, email me at:

Editor’s Letter

laporsha@sistaskeepermagazine.com or visit our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com Remember the purpose of Sista’s Keeper: to build you up as young women so you can be comfortable enough in yourself to help your sisters, cousins, friends, etc.

I hope that you enjoy this issue and remember: “I AM my Sista’s Keeper”

Tell us what you think!

Join the conversation... #SistasKeeper

Founding Editor/Publisher @SistasKeeperMag

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Subscribe to Sista’s Keeper!!!!!

6 issues per year for only $18!!!!!

Receive a “I AM my Sista’s Keeper” wristband with your subscription

Go to the Subscribe page of our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com

Eden Duncan Smith

Spotlight

Award-winning “Annie” co-star is on her way to the top...She played Isabella Sullivan, the oldest of Annie’s foster sisters.

Eden Sanaa Duncan-Smith made her Broadway debut in 2010’s Tony Award winning cast of Fences along side Denzel Washington and Viola Davis.

Her next Broadway role was Young Nala in Disney’s Lion King. Eden was nominated for Young Artist Awards for both shows winning Best Live Theater Actress for Fences.

Other drama awards she won for these roles are the Delta Sigma Theta Emerging Artist Award and the Audelco Rising Star Award.

In 2012, she lent her talents to Equality Now speaking out against non-consensual child-marriage.

Hollywood director and writer, Joss Whedon wrote her piece and doted, “Eden has extraordinary integrity as a kid actor.”

Eden is girl destined to change the world with her voice, talents and heart!

She defies stereotypes of what roles young starlets should take and as a proud member of the Project Girl Performance Collective, stretches the definition of girl power.

From the Fringe Festival to Estro-Genius Festival, she uses art to draw attention to issues that matter to her.

This is also why in 2011, she was honored

by BET and Black Girl’s Rock as a M.A.D. Girl (A girl making a difference) for her work with her non-profit, Angel In The S.K.Y.E. Network.

As a dancer, she has studied at Dance Theatre of Harlem, the American Ballet Theatre and Purelements: Evolution in Dance.

Eden is a blogger for Tween Girl Style Magazine and Society & Style.

She lives in Brooklyn, NY with her parents and her lion-head rabbit, Bob Marley.

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By: Ife Presswood

Beauty

“Spring” Into These

Spring is Nature’s way of saying ‘Let’s Party’!” and what better way to get the party started then to be ready with amazingly fly hair! So ditch the hats that hide the “winter hair struggle”, let those manes free and let’s party!

Curly Crown With Bun 1. Take the rattail comb and part out the hair on the crown of your head that you desire to have curly. Pin out of way.

2. Take the remaining hair in the back of the hair and gel back into a tight ponytail. Apply the bun holder around the ponytail and spread the hair around

Needs: • Bun Holder •Rubber Bands or Hair Ties •Gel (Alcohol-free) •Rattail Comb •Large plastic rollers with clips •Bobby Pins the holder until it is hidden and a bun is formed. Secure with rubber bands and/ or pins.

3. Release the hair at the top of the

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crown and section it into at least 6 parts (you will need more pending how big the crown section is). Take one parted section, apply a little gel, take a large roller and roll hair under until roller has met the scalp. Pin securely.

4. Repeat step 3 to all section parts of the crown.

5. Let curlers sit for 30-45 minutes or until dry.

6. Take out curlers and with wide tooth comb or fingers, separate curls in one direction: hair will appear layered.

7. Enjoy!

New Hairstyles Pony Hawk Needs:

• Rattail Comb •Alcohol-Free Gel •Hair ties •Brush •Perm rods or Marley hair (depending on whether you want a curly style or a fuller look and hair length) •Bobby pins

1. With rattail comb, part hair horizontally into 3-4 sections (may need more pending hair thickness). Separate with a hair ties.

2. Define hair one section at a time.

Take gel and brush and make sections neat and secure. Retie tightly with hair tie in a folded bun and pin down ends of the bun (if using Marley Hair) or in a ponytail if using real hair.

3. If using real hair, take pony tails and

Beauty

section into small parts (these will be the size of your curls) apply gel to the each small part then apply a perm rod (rolling upward) and apply the rod cap.

If using Marley hair take a portion of the hair (this will be the size of that part of the Mohawk), hold down the hair in the center and take a hair tie and wrap it around the middle section of the hair.

Then take the hair tie and wrap it around the bun.

4. Repeat Step 3 until whole head is finished.

5. If using real hair, let sit until hair in perm rods is dry, once dry, remove perm rods and use finger to separate the curls and give it a fuller look. If using Marley hair, pinned as desired to connect the sections.

6. Enjoy!

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Spring Nail Trends: Bring Our Your Inner Flower-ista

Beauty

Whether the look is futuristsic or bohemian, the name of the game is flower power. The spring 2015 collection is in full bloom, celebrating the fresh perspectives and energetic nature of the spring season.

Passionate Plum Dahlia

Blossom Dandy

Perennial Chic Petal Pushers Garden Variety For more collections from Essie, visit: http://www.essie.com/Latest-Collections.aspx

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Cosmetics

Clothes

Shoes

Nails

Accessories

E S I T R !

E ! ! !

V !

D E A ER H

Music

Hair Movies

Food/Drink & MORE!!!!

To advertise, contact us: info@sistaskeepermagazine.com

Spring Skincare: Bye Ashy!!!!!

Beauty

As the winter comes to an end, you may notice that the cold weather has taken a toll on your skin.

Dry, chapped skin is not only uncomfortable but it can also ruin a great spring ensemble. Here are a few tips to rejuvenate skin and keep it moisturized and soft all year long.

Lock In The Moisture Immediately after showering towel dry, leaving your skin slightly damp. Apply lotion all over, including your feet and hands. A general rule to remember is the thicker the lotion, the better.

If you already have a favorite lotion, you can try mixing it with petroleum jelly to create a thicker version that will reach deeper and last longer.

Drink Plenty Of Water When we think about skin care, we tend to think from the outside in. However, making sure your body has plenty of water can help you hydrate your skin from the inside out.

Though there is no immediate effect on the skin, drinking plenty of water is a good habit to maintain long-term skin health.

Start In The Shower A nice steamy shower perfectly sets the tone for deep moisture . Take maximum advantage of all that H2O by investing in a bath bar or body wash that contains extra moisturizers, such as shea butter or olive oil.

Using these in the shower helps your skin to hold in moisture when it’s at its most absorbent. Many of them have the added advantage of fragrance that can make you feel even more soft and feminine.

Hydrate On The Go While a good lotion session does the body good, it

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may not be enough to last throughout the day. It’s a good idea to keep a travel size lotion with you just in case that ash decides to pop up while you’re out and about.

Also, lotioning your hands after washing them or being out in the cold will help keep them soft and avoid that flaking and cracking that most of us deal with from time to time.

Remember, a little preparation now can save you a lot of discomfort (and embarrassment) in the future.

Exfoliate Exfoliation helps to remove any dead skin cells that are hanging on. Wiping away those old cells exposes your new, fresh skin and makes it easier to moisturize deeply and effectively.

A quick way to do this is to use bath gloves. You can add a little shower gel or soap to the glove and use it all over for a complete exfoliation.

Be careful not to scrub too hard or too long as the abrasive material can cause small scrapes in your skin.

What’s On The Website?

Visit our website for photos, videos, events & MORE!!!!!

Extra content available ONLY online...

Coming in April • All Things PROM • Earth Day • National Poetry Month • Financial Literacy • Stress Awareness www.sistaskeepermagazine.com

By: De’Shauna Selby

Entertainment

Book Review: The Princess Within

The wife of Pastor T.D. Jakes gives young girls a guide to find their inner royalty.

It is no longer a secret that within generation “X” circumstances such as teen pregnancy, violence, self-esteem issues, lack of identity and many more have claimed the lives and direction of today’s youth.

From suicides to violent acts, we have witnessed in some fashion the systematic struggle of our youth finding, accepting and more importantly, loving themselves enough not to submit to what society’s defines as the ‘ideal’ image.

Believe it or not, Serita Ann Jakes knows all too well of the obstacles teens face, especially young girls. Because of her own personal struggles and as a living testimony, Jakes is challenging young teens all over

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to redefine their struggles through her motivational book, The Princess Within for Teens.

“A princess cares for the feelings of her subjects- from those with the highest place in society to the lowest.

Though a princess, she is a servant of truth with her words.” Which those words reign from God. Throughout the course of this book, Jakes takes her readers on a spiritual journey through various scenarios and solutions led by the popular Cinderella theme (which she has modernized) along with embracing teens love for music by noting musical selections relative to the mood of her characters.

All while reminding her readers that “God is with you, not against you.” Each chapter encourages the reader to submit to God willingly and build a relationship with him with these steps: Accept him as your personal savior and “secret keeper”, be truthful and honest with self and with him, and be open and vulnerable to share your weaknesses and shortcomings so he can help you grow.

She desires young girls to walk in the light of truth by making this commitment: “As a princess of God, I will remain open, strong, and courageous enough to tell the truth and accept the truth of others.” As Jakes explains, this commitment gives them the power to choose their direction, what to internalize and what not to, define their definition of self whether it is through beauty, academics,

personal relationship, etc, giving themselves and God full control.

Although Jakes book is for young teen girls, a few of her chapters would interest many parents who are continuously working to understand their daughters and help lead them with the foundation of God. In her Chapter “Parents Just Don’t Understand”, she outlines the importance of communication and the fifth commandment: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20: 2-17) She highlights the very thought that most youth don’t think about if they have not committed themselves to a life in Christ, “Did you know that back in Old Testament times, disobedience to parents could result in severe punishment- mainly death?”

Jakes is encouraging a spiritual fear of both God and their parents for the ultimate blessing which is both an abundant and eternal life. She also encourages building a healthy growing relationship between her readers and their parents through communication which she provides a guide list.

In all, Jakes tackles practically every aspect of life’s hardships for young teen girls within today’s society. Real-life testimonies from young teens girls across the nation to leading a spiritual journey for young women to follow in their days to come, Jakes educates them on the significance of having a relationship with God and more importantly, who he is and what he can be for us.

She even provides a section with all you need to know with topics ranging from baptism to salvation.

This book reveals much of Jakes very own struggles during her early years which is her biggest motivation for the book. “I wrote this book for you to remind you that you aren’t powerless but powerful, thanks to your heavenly Father- the King of the Universe.”

About Mrs. Jakes Serita A. Jakes has been involved in Christian ministry all of her adult life and has served alongside her husband, Bishop T. D. Jakes, throughout their entire marriage of nearly 30 years.

As an insightful speaker, she draws heavily from her education and background in theater and mass communications. A soft-spoken woman offstage, First Lady Jakes, as she is affectionately referred to by The Potter’s House congregation, possesses the rare ability to reach and stir her audiences as she works to complement her husband’s ministry.

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By: Alexis Knight

Fashion

Start Your Spring Off Turn the hallway into a runway! There are so many

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Right With These Ideas

Fashion

ways to bring the SPARKLE this spring.

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By: Ife Presswood

Love In The Springtime:

Fashion Get The Perfect Look For Spring Break

Style is an expression of individualism mixed with charisma.

Fashion is something that comes after style.

Finding a style that is all you, is a must after no one can do you like you: #beyou #doyou, and in finding your own style you enviably create fashion.

So ladies, here are a few Spring Break fashions, to get you through the break whether it be at the beach or with your girls in the streets because let’s be honest nothing says Spring Break like the feeling of KNOWING you look good!

Day 2: Mike!

Take a bold pattern and mix it with a classic novel tee!

With a pop of color, you are beyond ready for a day or fun!

Swimwear Sometimes less is more! Just when you thought the one-piece bathing suit was a thing of the past, they make a trendy come backnothing short of complete cuteness!

Bold colors, neons, cut outs, mesh, high waist vintage and statement patterns! Looking for swimwear for the break and into the summer, this what you’ll find!

Whether you are modest or ooutgoing these bathing suit trends and styles are sure to make you smile!

Out and About

Day 3: Flower Child!

Nothing says Spring like floral print and dresses! Mix the two and you arefashion ready with an outfir that can take you from day to night!

Day 4: Daisy Crazy!

Match images, accent colors and bring it all together with fun accessories!

Your 5 day outline to an outfit perfect Spring Break!

Day 1: Nerdy Sunflower!

Great for a day with the family! Minimalistic meets fun: featuring Spring 2015 trend: collared polo shirts.

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Day 5: Dots and strips, black and white, asymmetrical skirts and skorts: three major 2015 trends, here and ready for a day with the girls or date night!

Girl Talk’s Prom Project

Fashion

Organization helps teen girls have the perfect prom by providing dresses and accessories to use for the special day.

Prom Project™ is an effort to collect and distribute donated formal wear so that HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS have the opportunity to feel beautiful for their prom or social. But it’s MORE THAN JUST A DRESS! Girls get to choose a dress, shoes and accessories from a makeshift boutique free of charge, but as a prerequisite to shopping, girls attend a 45-minute etiquette class. There is real conversation from professionals about appropriate social and dining etiquette. Girls hear from law enforcement experts on prom safety and from experts who offer tips on beauty and fashion.

Then it’s off to shop for that perfect dress!

The event is designed to provide girls with not only formal wear, but the skills needed to feel confident, smart, proud and powerful.

When: Saturday, April 11, 2015 Where: ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center,

300 E. Seventh Street, Charlotte, NC Time: 10am and 1pm Cost: Free, but registration is required.

Donations are needed to make Prom Project™ successful, so the following donations are requested: • Gently worn or new dresses (sizes 0-26) (prom, bridesmaids, cocktail and after five) • Gently worn or new shoes (sizes 0-12) (strappy sandals, pumps, mid to high heels) • Jewelry • Purses • Unused make-up and perfume Donations are tax-deductible and can be taken to eight drop-off locations through April 9th.

Individuals or companies are welcomed to sponsor a girl to participate in this program. Please visit www. girltalkfoundationinc.com.

A $250 contribution supports one girl’s participation in the Prom Project™ that includes program materials and prom accessories.

For your contribution, you will receive: • Limited edition soft-cover photo album highlighting participants engagement in program • Name/company recognition at Prom Project™ event

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By: Yani Long

Endometriosis

Health

Endometrioses is common health problem that affects woman.

Endometrioses is also known as “endo” the name endometrioses comes from endometrium meaning the tissue that lines the uterus or womb.

Endometrioses occurs when the tissue grows outside of the uterus and spreads to other parts of the body where it does not be belong.

Endometrioses can be found on different parts if the body like ovaries the Fallopian tubes, the tissue that holds the uterus in place.

Other sites for growth can include the vagina, rectum bowel, cervix and bladder. Endometriosis can cause severe pain, bleeding or spotting, between menstrual cycles or infertility and digestive problems.

Cherrelle Lawrence had suffered with many painful cycles since she was 15 years old. The doctors never could tell her what the problem was. The doctors would just excuse the problem by saying the pain was in her head or your menstrual cycle is just heavy.

She knew there had to be something more to the problem; when pain began to consume her whole life. She began to search for different gynecologists, to tell her what the problem was, but because of her age the doctors would not conduct surgery.

In 2010 endometriosis robbed Cherrelle of her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. The pain consumed her life. She began missing days and going to work in pain and fainting in class. So, once again Cherrelle was back on the hunt for more medical professionals. After years of searching for the correct diagnoses she found it in 2012 when she was diagnosed with severe endometriosis.

In 2013 Cherrelle decided to take her pain and turn it into action when she started the Her yellow Ribbon Organization. The organization is all about promoting awareness about endometriosis. They promote awareness through literature and public events and social media. They also promote healthy life styles and GYN visits and exams. The organization

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also provides support to woman who battle endometriosis.

Sista’s Keeper: Why do you think it’s important for young girls to learn about endometriosis?

Cherelle Lawrence: I believe that it is important for a conversation with young girls to take place, early, regarding their female reproductive system. The conversation should go beyond discussing the “birds and the bees” young girls need to learn about gynecologic issues, that they could begin showing signs of at a very early age.

Endometriosis is one of those issues that can Symptoms to look for: • Painful menstrual cramps - Often paired with heavy menstrual bleeding • Chronic pain in the pelvic area and lower back • Pain during intercourse and/or after • Intestinal pain and blockage • Painful bowel movements or painful urination during menstrual periods • Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods • Infertility or not being able to get pregnant • Fatigue • Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during menstrual periods

Awareness Month

Health

Risk factors for Endometriosis

CL: In 2012, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Endometriosis – after nearly 10 years of pain • A History of Endometriosis in your family symptoms. My husband and I were trying • Severe Menstrual Cramps for more than 3 years to conceive in 2013, so we decided to visit a • Imbalance of hormones • Use of several forms of birth control pills, shots doctor to help us along. During our visit, the and patches doctor stated that we may want to reconsider • Use of synthetic hormones having children, because the Endometriosis was “so damaging” on my body, that we be controlled, when diagnosed early. One of would likely not be able to conceive. the primary ways in which girls can identify She then suggested that I take a medication if they are having gynecologic issues, is to – often given to Stage 4 Prostate Cancer keep a “GYN Diary.” This diary should be Patients – in order to heal my pain, but” an ongoing log of their symptoms, especially fertility was out of the window” for us. \ pain. Our website features a sample GYN From that appointment, I decided to turn Diary for girls to use to track their symptoms my anger into something positive by starting #HerYellowRibbon. I knew that it was more SK: What are some ways endometriosis can important for me to raise “correct” awareness be prevented? for young women, rather than to have doctors CL: Unfortunately, there is no exact prescribe things that would not solve the way to prevent Endometriosis, as it is caused problem. by the hormones in your body. Some ways that we suggest preventing it from advancing into SK: Why is it important for young girls to Stage 4, would be to: live a healthy life style?

•Refrain from using birth control pills – if CL: It is important for young women to you must take them, try to take a low dosage. live a healthy lifestyle because it can impact The imbalance in your hormones causes the everything about their bodies. Living a healthy Endometriosis to grow faster. lifestyle includes: mental, physical and •Be your own advocate! Talk to your doctor emotional health. about your pain and share your GYN Diary.

For Example: When you don’t exercise or •Always get a second opinion if you feel like eat healthy, you begin to gain weight – when your doctor is forcing a birth control method become uncomfortable with your body, it on you. There are several options available. causes you to think negatively about yourself •Eat Healthy Foods & Exercise Frequently – when you think negatively, you become

depressed. You can avoid this cycle by taking SK: What inspired you to start “Her Yellow Ribbon” organization?

Continued on page 45

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By: Whitney Martin

Relationships

Spring Cleaning

Many of us have friendships that have lasted for a lifetime and others have new and blossoming friendships.

Improving Your Relationship with Friends However, these personal relationships seem to get the least attention even when they are such an important factor in our day-to-day lives.

We tend to take advantage of friendships that we assume don’t need to be worked or improve on when in fact, they need just as much time and work as any other relationships.

Friends can easily feel neglected or misused which can create a dis-connection between the two of you. In order to avoid having an issue with your friendships, try these quick and easy steps to guarantee healthy and long- lasting companionships.

Talk about It

Take the Time Friendships also need time in order to blossom. The more time you dedicate to improving your companionships, the more lasting and valuable they will become. Good friendships do not form overnight, they need considerable time to flourish. Strong bonds are made through spending time together, whether you’re laughing and hugging, comforting one another through hard times, or just enjoying one another’s company. Take the time to grow your friendships.

Re-evaluate Your Friendships

People can outgrow friendships and hangHaving good communication should be a ing on to these relationships can be detrimenpriority in any relationship. Each one of you tal and tiring. Re- evaluate who your friends should be able to talk about your problems and also listen. Your friendship should consist of understanding of one another’s needs.

If you believe your friend is not communicating well with you or you feel they have been too busy, do not be afraid to tell them. I guarantee they will appreciate you telling them instead of creating resentment of your friendship in the long-term.

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Your Life are and be sure they are beneficial and not a burden. Realize that it’s okay to not be friends with someone and don’t force a relationship that clearly will not work.

Healthy companionships should be benefi-

Relationships

cial to all the people involved and not harmful.

This spring, while you’re doing your spring cleaning, do the same with your friendships and be sure that they are truly relationships you want to have in your life.

Self Checklist It’s time for a spring cleaning! Life can be busy and hectic so it’s easy to lose yourself in the daily mix of things.

However, it is important to take time for yourself and tend to your own needs.

Improving your self- esteem, self-image, and self- confidence can help you become an even better you. It’s time to clean yourself up in 2015 and dust off the old you.

Understanding yourself can lead to more job opportunities, help with social skills among other possibilities, and most importantly lead to self- fulfillment and happiness. Here is a checklist to better yourself in 2015: • Take out any bad habits you’ve been holding on too • Wash away all the negativity in your life • Dust off the past because that’s where it belongs, in the past • Scrub off doubt and get rid of feeling uncertain of yourself to gain clarity • Put away old relationships that are harmful to you • Hang Up procrastination • Sweep away undesired thoughts and memories • Open the windows to new people and experiencing new things • Shine and polish lasting and long term friendships • Paint in love and showing compassion

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Alternative Spring Break

Jando

By: Camille Daniels

fashion. Fashion is an area that may not be viewed as charitable or volunteer worthy by some, but What comes to your mind when thinking of it can be when looking at the right organizations vacation, especially spring break? For most it such as K.I.D.S/Fashion Delivers an organization involves the beach and lots of fun in the sun and focused on helping kids and adults in need of of course absolutely no work is involved. supplies including clothing during difficult times.

Yet, there are some people who absolutely don’t Another organization with a national following mind taking that week off and doing something is Habitat for Humanity. different then the beach and instead rolling up For young people ages 16 and up can volunteer their sleeves and helping others out. with Habitat for Humanity as a member of the This kind of vacation is known as an Collegiate Challenge. “alternative spring break”. These kind of trips It’s with HFH that young people can get involve giving back to the community in some involved with helping to build a house or houses sort of volunteering capacity. for families in need. This allows not only the So, what is an alternative spring break and how chance to give back but also change the lives of can you get involved? It’s simple all it takes is a those who need it most. little research and you too can spend your vacation It’s also a great way to learn how to build a time giving back if hanging at the beach is not home from the ground up, this is especially good something you want to do. thing to learn if you are not familiar with how to In order to figure out what you want to do take care of a home. regarding volunteering it first begins with what’s To find out more information about how to get your interest and where you want to do it. involved please visit their website at habitat.org For example, if you are someone that wants to and search for collegiate challenge under youth feed the homeless or help out at the local food programs. pantry those things may just be in your local H.F.H. and A.R.C. are not the only national neighborhood or town. The best places to look organizations to check out there’s also United may be at a place of worship such as a church or Way. Unlike the others it may not have the same synagogue. national familiarity but United Way is also a If volunteering in your area is difficult because another organization that can be found across the it’s just hard to find anything to do the next best country. option is to research local chapters of national U.W. focuses on families helping them reach organizations. One organization to include in your their highest potentials through the means of research is The American Red Cross. education and living peaceful and wholesome This particular organization has chapters in lives. cities and states all across the country. It can Volunteers are needed in all areas to help them be easily be as simple as logging onto their site achieve this goal. The best way to figure out www.redcross.org and finding out what events the how you can help is by visiting their website at organization is hosting in your area and seeing unitedway.org and search for the volunteer page. how you can help.

If you’re looking to do something out of the ordinary it might be best to try something like

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By: Yani Long

Maua Spring Break Safety Tips

It’s a new year, new semester, it’s still winter and probably really cold depending on your location and you’re sitting on the edge of your seat anticipating the warm weather and a break from school.

Spring break is right around the corner and it’s the time of year most teens have made plans to hit the beach or go out of town whether for leisure or volunteer work.

While fun is always the plan there are most definitely some dangers that, as a young woman, should be aware of when you’re hitting the town or walking back to your hotel room.

There are a few safety tips that can keep you from harms way. Not to instill fear or prevent you from having any fun during your time off from the quizzes, tests, and homework, but it’s important to pay attention to your surroundings, never go anywhere alone, and keep a close reference to emergency contacts.

You want to be fully aware of your surroundings.

Your destination, your hotel, addresses, and those around you are very important to be mindful of while you’re out having fun. A good idea would be to devise a plan.

The first step would be to create an itinerary. Jot down the things you plan to do for the duration of your break.

A good idea would be to list the dates and times of places you plan to visit, where you plan on eating, and how long you think you’ll be there. This also helps with time management in the future. It’s important to keep track of where you have been and where you are going.

Whether a family trip, a mini-vacation with friends, or volunteer works with classmates no matter the place or for how long, do not go anywhere alone.

Have a friend tag along. In the event something should happen, it would less likely occur if you were not alone.

Besides, whatever you plan to do is more fun when you are with someone, why do anything alone? Four eyes and two brains are better than one.

You both can look out for one another; you can be more attentive and last but not least if traveling in

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groups you have more security in knowing that your safety is greater than if you were alone or in pairs.

It is very important to have a list of emergency contacts close, maybe in your wallet or purse and definitely in your cell phone if you have one. You need to make sure you have a means to contact your parents, the hotel or wherever you are staying, any chaperones that may be present on your trip, other immediate family and friends.

You want to be able to contact anyone necessary in the event you need help or assistance. If your parents are or are not present on your trip make sure you keep them in the loop. Let them know your plans or your next move so they can be reassured that you are safe and will be safe.

Not to take away from any fun or prevent you from experiencing young adulthood but safety is important no matter where you go or whom you are with.

You want to make sure you know how to get help, what emergency contacts to reach including the police department if you are out of the country, and again never go anywhere alone.

For more safety tips and advice, have a sit down with your parents and go over the rules with your school or chaperones if you are not traveling with family. Safety first, then have all the fun you desire.

Spring Break: College Road Trip

Your high school years are moving by fast. Before you know it, it’ll be time to start deciding what colleges you want to apply to. Spring Break is right around the corner, and it is college tour season. So why not take the time out to go tour different colleges during your spring break?

Planning Talk with your parents and research what colleges you would like to tour. Since you only have a week out from school, you may be limited to how many colleges you may actually tour. Be sure to choose carefully!

Registering

After you have chosen the colleges you would like to tour, make sure you give yourself at least a 2 week span to register for the college tour. (Ex. If you would like to tour East Carolina University on March 24, register on or before March 10.) In order to register for a tour you can register on the college’s website, or you can call the Admissions office. If you would like to visit the department you plan to join in college, it is better to call the Admissions office to make sure it is okay with the school and department.

Tours It is important to know how far it will take you to get to each college. After you register, print out directions to the college. This is important so that you will know how far it is from you. This will also help so that you won’t be late to your tour.

When on your tour, feel free to ask as many questions as possible. This will show that you are interested, and it will provide you with more knowledge about the school. You may have a question about the school that others are afraid to ask. Asking questions at each school can help you limit your decision on which school you want to attend. Not sure what to ask? Here are a few questions to ask on a college tour: •What do you think makes your school distinctive?

•Does the student body have a voice in the university?

By: Shamyua Miles

Ndege

•What do students do on the weekend?

After Tour

After your town, feel free to stay and do your own mini tour around campus. Look around buildings you may not have gone on during the tour. Check out the buildings that seem to fit your interest, such as the fitness center.

When you leave from the tour, take time to reflect on the things that you like and the things you dislike. This can affect your choice of the college you attend.

Seniors

If you haven’t already been on a tour of the school that you have been accepted to, make sure that you do so before you respond to the acceptance letter.

You can do this by simply registering like everyone else. It is important to do this so that you will know for sure if this is the school for you. You don’t want to spend 4 years at a school that you don’t like! Tours to colleges that you’ve been accepted to are very important!

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Queen Quvenzhane’ At only 11 years old, Quvenzhane Wallis is taking Hollywood by storm. The Oscar-nominated actress (pronouced kwuh-VEN-zhuh-nay) is an award-winning critic favorite who took on the role of the iconic curly-haired Annie.

W

allis’ career is growing very fast in Hollywood and she’s becoming a big star who knows what she’s doing at such a young age. Movie studios are making movies for her as Annie was cast and written after she was cast.

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Annie Another movie that is being made around her is the adaptation of Holly Goldberg Sloan's bestselling novel Counting by 7s, about a young girl who moves in with a surrogate family after the death of her adoptive parents.

Her co-stars love her, from Oscar winner Jamie Foxx to Cameron Diaz. "She brought so much talent and charisma to set that it really allowed me to get lost in the story of these two characters who are trying to navigate their lives in New York City," said Jamie Foxx to Elle Magazine, who plays Will Stacks, this Annie's version of "Daddy" Warbucks. "Quvenzhané was made play this role.

I'm convinced it was in her DNA." Wallis is mature and charming for an 11-yearold and she is just as humble. "I just keep doing what I'm doing and don't ever give up. That's what I like about Annie. If she has goals, she'll finish them, like me. We're both confident."

Director Will Gluck chose Wallis to play Annie because he needed someone courageous, smart and sweet. She was someone who could be believable in the updated version of the classic where she is a foster child in urban New York City.

“We just wanted a modern girl and when you see the movie, it’s not about her race,” Gluck said to Elle Magazine. “It’s just about a headstrong girl

who cares about everyone around her and that’s what Quvenzhane is,” he said.

Wallis’ was surprised but excited when she got the call to play Annie. “It was very exciting! I just got a call and they were like ‘Would you like to play Annie?’ I was like ‘Sure!’ and they were like ‘because you ARE playing Annie!’ I was like ‘Oh my gosh...Really?’

‘It was like really delayed because I had no idea what was happening. It was very funny,’ she said. “The movie is for everyone. It’s amazing; the songs, actors and actresses make it amazing.”

Beasts of the Southern Wild Wallis became the youngest actress to be nominated for a Best Actress Oscar at age 9 for her performance as Hushpuppy in Beasts of the Southern Wild. Wallis was asleep when she received the nomination.

“My mom had to wake me up because it was like 5:45 in the morning. She tells me I’m nominated and nothing’s reacting. I was just watching my name scroll across the screen but on the inside I was doing flips that I never could do before.”

Wallis auditioned at the age of 5 but the audition was for 6-9 year olds. “My mom’s friend let us know about it and my mom knew I was too young but her friend said I could handle it.”

Director Benh Zeitlin said he picked Quvenzhane for the role because she was "fierce".

She told NPR in 2013 that the fierceness she displayed was for the audition.

"Yeah, I felt like I did good but I'm not fierce as much anymore. If I have to be fierce, I'll be fierce.

Hushpuppy was a little girl who wanted to just follow her father, because her mother wasn't there, and she just wanted to go, kinda just like went after everything that he has done."

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Wallis began her second run as ambassador for

Connect w/ Gabrielle

Name: Quvenzhane Wallis Age: 11 Hometown: Houma, Lousiana Birthday: August 28th Favorite food: Pizza, seafood and grapes Favorite colors: Turquoise and pink Hobbies: Roller skating, reading Favorite subject: Science Favorite Movie: Frozen Singer: Beyoncé TV show: Girl Meets World Books: The Dork Diaries and The Witches by Roald Dahl

Armani Junior. Giorgio Armani said that she is so talented despite her young age.

“Her kindness, curiosity and openness toward others really struck me, as they are all traits I admire. It is for this very reason that I wanted her to be the face of Armani Junior. With her insatiable energy, Quvenzhane made the clothing come alive, interpreting it in her own singular way."

She said that she was so happy to be chosen to be ambassador for Armani Junior. “I felt the same excitement when I got cast for a major film. Me? Wow! I was honored to wear his custom gown to the Oscars. It made me feel like a princess.

When I saw Mr. Armani's Prive show in New York, the dresses were so pretty. I had too many favorites. Afterwards when I met him, I realized Mr. Armani is such a nice man.

I liked that that he was so thoughtful. It's fun to wear Armani Junior since I really like the clothes.

It's young. It's cool. My friends are going to want to borrow all my clothes."

@IAMQUVENZHANE

Get To Know Her Wallis lives a pretty normal life when she is not filming or traveling. She has two older brothers and one older sister. She told Wendy Williams that her mother travels with her. “She helps me pick up my clothes and accessories. She is there with me all the time but I still have to do chores at home.”

She is still in regular school in Louisiana when she is not filming or traveling.

“School is normal for me. My friends ask about trips and stuff when I get back but after a while, they let me be a regular student. I do take work with me when I’m traveling.”

Wallis has a Yorkipoo named Sammie and a German shepherd named Shuga. She loves to carry dog bags as an accessory.

“I like them so it could be like I’m bringing my dogs with me.”

One of her co-stars in Annie was Sandy the dog, who she loved to work with. “I love dogs and all animals. I would love to be a veterinarian one day.”

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Accepted...

By: Shamyua Miles

Once you receive an acceptance letter, you have to take It’s your senior year, and you’ve applied to multiple colleges. You’re beginning to hear back from the schools that you applied to, and you’ve been accepted to more than one. Congrats!

Everyone knows you’ve worked so hard for this moment. Now that you’ve been accepted, and to more than one college,

Ask Questions Asking questions will help you dig a little deeper and get to know the college a little better.

what do you do? You have to choose the college that you feel is best for you.

No college is perfect, but you have to look at what you want in a college, what you hope to gain from the college, and if you will be proud to say that you are an Alum from that college. Still not sure what to do? Here’s a little help.

Get Answers Ask your questions to certain people. If you have questions about how the school operates, you may want to ask someone who works at the college. If you have a question about campus life, it would be better to ask someone who is a student and lives on campus.

Visit Or Revisit The Campus If you haven’t been on a tour to the colleges you’ve been accepted to, it is important to your decision that you do so. If you have been on a tour to the colleges you’ve been accepted to, you can revisit the colleges to see which one is best for you.

Compare Financial Aid Awards Financial aid awards are important because this will determine how you schooling is paid for. You need to sit down and talk with your family about which school is affordable The things to consider are: • Financial aid • Loans • Work study

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Now What?????? the necessary steps to secure your college enrollment.

After considering all of these things, it is now time for you to make a decision.You don’t have to make one right away, but it is essential that you make a decision before May 1. This is the date when most colleges expect to hear something from you.

When you have finally chosen the school that is best for you, you should respond not only to that school, but also to the schools that you have decided to decline.

To respond to colleges that you are declining, you can send them a brief note thanking them for accepting you, but also informing them that you are declining their offer.

Getting accepted into multiple schools can be excited, but that’s only when the hard part begins. You have so much to think about and so much to decide, but don’t let that stress you out. Get help from your family, and even friends, and pick which school is the school for you!

Some things that you need to send to the college you accepted include: •Your acceptance letter •A deposit •Another acceptance letter for financial aid •Any other information that is required

College Acceptance Spotlight Name: Kelia High School: Harding University High School College Accepted To: North Carolina A&T State University GPA: 3.9 Intended major: Journalism & Mass Communications Extracurricular activities: Marching Band of Gold (captain of the drumline), Varsity softball, Executive Council “I was excited when I got my accpetance letter because A&T was my first choice. I’m looking forward to getting away and being around people on my level. I went for a tour of the campus and it felt like home.

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Volunteering With The March is American Red Cross Month and getting involved with By: Camille Daniels The American Red Cross will celebrate its 134th founder’s day this year on May 21, 1881.

The organization was founded by Clara Barton and a group of friends.

The idea was sparked by Barton after being in Europe, specifically in Sweden after the Civil War that took place in the United States.

By 1882 the ARC was ratified by Barton for the injured soldiers of the Geneva Convention and the U.S. eventually ratified in 1882.

Barton led the organization for 23 years.

ARC first exercised its aiding purpose when helping the injured of the Spanish-American war.

By 1905 there were two successful charted chapters. By the First World War there were over 100 charted chapters and also life skills being taught such as first aid, water safety and public health nursing programs.

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By the Second World War the organization was looked upon to help the military in the Great War. Since the Second World War the organization has focused on blood donations amongst civilians.

As of 2006 ARC has formed a relationship with FEMA aka Federal Emergency Management Agency to help people in major natural disasters.

It also helps communities with other health issues such as CPR/AED training and HIV/ AIDS education.

Each year, the president of the United States proclaims March “Red Cross Month.” ARC uses this month as a chance to honor and celebrate the everyday heroes who help the organization fulfill its mission.

This March, they encourage everyone to uncover their inner hero. Choose one or more of their volunteet options and be a hero today!

American Red Cross this organization will help you learn to help others.

Get Started Volunteering Today!!!!!!

If you’re 17 and under a way to get involved with ARC is by joining a group or by creating a Red Cross Club charter.

The RCC is for young people in the greater New York area. However, if it is something that interest you and you aren’t from New York find out how you can start a chapter in your town.

If you’re over 18 and looking to volunteer with ARC the best way is to simply find a ARC chapter near you. This can be done by logging onto the website and typing in your zip code and telling the interests needed.

The site will lead you to what is needed in your area. The areas of interests range from blood services to youth services and anything else in between. If you aren’t sure what you want to do the site has various descriptions of

what it does offer allowing you to decide if anything is of interest to you.

The type of volunteer opportunities include board members, volunteer management and disaster action team member just to name a few.

Regardless of interests there is something for just about anyone whether it is something in you are personally into or if there is something else that you would like to do that is not the ordinary for you.

There are sections for volunteering that may not seem important like social media, there is a need for that.

So, if that or driving or whatever you believe you have to offer just visit their website and see how you can be of service.

For more information on the American Red Cross and its programs for youth volunteering, please visit: http://redcrossyouth.org/

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Getting Ready

Education Feature

This college prep timeline provided by http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/

In 9th & 10th Grade

7th & 8th Grade • Begin thinking about the high school classes that will prepare you for college. Take the most difficult classes you can handle.

• Ask your parents or teachers to help you develop good study habits.

• Practice setting and reaching goals.

• Volunteer in your community.

• Take interest and skills assessments to help you think about possible career options.

• Talk with your school counselor and parents about careers that interest you want to explore.

• Create a tentative high school class plan.

• Enroll in a summer enrichment program.

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• Take interest and skills assessments to help you explore careers options.

• Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can handle. Stay focused on your schoolwork.

• Talk with your school counselor about career options and the education required for those careers. • Sign up for classes that will earn college credit during your junior year • Talk with your parents through Advanced about saving and paying Placement, International for college.

Baccalaureate, Postsecondary • Talk with friends, Enrollment Options or teachers, counselors College in the Schools. and your parents about college.

• Explore internships and apprenticeships.

• Check if your school requires 10th graders to take the PLAN to prepare • Enroll in a summer enrichment program. for the ACT. • Participate in extracurricular activities.

Want to go to college?

It’s never too late to prepare...

For more information, visit: http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/ March 2015

For College

Education Feature

will show you what you need to do to get ready for college.

In 11th Grade • Attend college and financial aid events.

• Mentor others and have a mentor for yourself.

• Take the PSAT in the fall to prepare for the SAT, and to identify areas where you need improvement.

• Consider possible career options and investigate the type of education that is needed.

• Request materials from schools that interest you and visit their websites.

• Arrange campus visits to those schools that interest you.

• Participate in extracurricular activities.

• Request admissions and financial aid forms.

• Sign up for classes that will earn college credit during your senior year through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Postsecondary Enrollment Options or College in the Schools.

• Register for and take the ACT and/or SAT in the spring.

• Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can handle.

Stay focused on your schoolwork. Make sure you are meeting your high school graduation requirements.

• Enroll in a summer enrichment program.

• Get a job to earn and save money for college, or explore your skills through an internship or apprenticeship.

• Research private scholarship options.

In 12th Grade • Stay focused on your schoolwork and take the most difficult classes you can handle.

• Take career interest assessments and determine the education needed for careers that interest you.

• Participate in extracurricular activities.

• Volunteer in the community.

March through May • Have your final high school transcript sent to the colleges to which you’ve applied.

• Choose a college and notify in writing those you don’t plan to attend.

• Send in any required forms or deposits.

Summertime • Get a job to earn money for college.

• Review orientation materials from the college you selected.

• If living on campus, check with the college for a list of what’s provided by the school and what the school expects the student to provide.

• Contact your roommate.

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Media Partner

Living Fearlessly With God Have you ever asked yourself, “What does it mean to be fearless?” Fearless is your ability to believe that you can do anything that you put your mind to do.

You can be an honor roll student. You can make the cheerleading squad. You have the ability within in you to be fearless. We are called by God to be bold and fearless.

There are so many girls who are afraid of making a mistake that they don’t do anything.

There are girls that are afraid of being judged or criticized by their peers.

It is important for you to know that when you care so deeply about what other people think that it could totally immobilize you.

Fear keeps you from living your best life and making progress. Fear consumes your energy. Fear leaves you empty. Fear makes you ineffective.

God did not give you the spirit of fear. He also knows you aren’t perfect and He’s totally okay with it. We don’t have to perform for him. All we have to do is trust Him. As teenage girls we have to step out in faith and be fearless to do God’s will and be one of his servants even if seems like we’re not in the in crowd.

Remember that if you are always striving to be normal, you will never know how amazing you are.

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About Keep Rising!

The Keep Rising! Empowerment Summit for Girls is a one-day conference for girls 11-18 where girls are allowed to ask anything, become inspired and empowered to be anything they want to be.

Keep Rising! summit is a powerful, innovative and groundbreaking experience where girls will attend workshops led by industry experts.

Girls will learn: – How to communicate effectively with other girls.

– How to support girls emotionally and spiritually.

– How to ensure their personal success.

To learn more about the Keep Rising!

Empowerment Summit for Girls, please visit: www.keeprisingsummit.com

Media Partner

Get Your Tickets For the Keep Rising! Summit Q: Is this event just for girls?

A: Yes, this event is only for girls ages 1118.

Q: Do adults need a ticket?

A: Yes. Individual tickets are $20 for adults.

Q: If I do not want to attend the adult Q: Can I be a speaker, vendor or sponsor of workshop, can I just drop my daughter or this event?

A: Yes, please contact us for more details. mentee off to attend the workshop?

A: Yes, there will be plenty of adult Please click here to download the sponsorship packet. volunteers in attendance to ensure the safety of your daughter or mentee.

Q: Are adults invited?

A: Yes, adults are invited to attend a Theme: Girls Running the World Date: Saturday, May 9, 2015 two-hour workshop facilitated by Tracy Time: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Alston, Board Certified Neurotherapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, to discuss Location: Concord Middle School 1500 Gold Rush Dr., Concord communication strategies with their daughters Parking: Free parking or mentees.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be

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7 Reasons To Always Be Spontaneous and Fearless By: Asiah Lemon Girls Who Lead We all need to find reasons to be spontaneous and fearless at any moment, sometimes a random boost of spontaneity and fearless is just what we need.

It can be scary sometimes to let go of your routine and go with the flow because it is riskier, but it can also create memories, wonderful lessons and funny stories to tell.

Here are some reasons to be spontaneous and fearless that will make you feel better.

Knowledge Being spontaneous and living in the moment allows us to learn something new, whether it is good or bad.

Whether it be finding your new book store to learning a life changing lesson. Either way we still gain knowledge.

Gain Experience Exploration is the key to gaining experience. Do you remember when we were little, we were taught to color inside of the lines.

Not one person is perfect and we all know that coloring outside of the lines is where the magic happens.

Just like that we can be fearless and spontaneous and experience what is outside of those lines.

It’s Fun and Carefree In my opinion, I believe the best part of going with the flow and being fearless is that it’s fun! We are able to enjoy those silly, random moments without having to worry about anything.

I can always be spontaneous and fearless just for this feeling. Once you feel what it is like, you get addicted for life. The most unplanned moments in time bring so much joy to us, what more can we ask for right?

No Regrets Living life with no limits or regrets! In the end we only regret the chances we didn’t take. Living in fear takes us away from all the opportunities life has in store

for us.

Being afraid to do something you really want to do will only make you regret not doing it in the future. Based on my personal experience, the spontaneous moments were the best ones. I enjoyed living in the moment and did not regret one bit.

No matter if the result was good or bad, I still had a great story to tell. So take a chance and be fearless honey!

Happiness Creating happy moments is a great way to boost up your spontaneous mood and increase your fearless attitude. We are all fearless of something in life, but living in fear (all the time) is like running fast in placeyou will get nowhere.

Obviously you can’t just become spontaneous and fearless all at once. It takes time and needs to be taken one step at a time. Enjoying these crazy little moments only brings happiness into your life. Try taking a friend or family member on your crazy adventures.

Stories To Tell My favorite part of books and movies, is when the grandmother tells the teen in need, their past crazy stories and life experiences in order to give the teen a boost of inspiration.

It may just be me, but I would love to be that grandma! Being spontaneous and fearless now will not only benefit us now, but benefit us in the future. Don’t we all want that sparkly moment our life to reminisce about?

You Only Live Once Whether you are singing the song or putting your words into action, it’s true! We only live once, so why not make this life a memorable and meaningful one? There are many ways to be spontaneous.

GWL tip: Create a bucket list with a close friends or family member of things you would love to do. Take daily small steps toward completing them. Being fearless is really hard to do unless you have faith in yourself.

Asiah Lemon is a certified cool chick who is a Life Coach for tween and teen girls.

Find out 10 ways to boost your confidence: www.girlswholead.com

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Resources American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ • Keep Rising! Empowerment Summit for Girls http://www.keeprisingsummit.com/ • College Prep Timeline http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/ • Girls Who Lead http://girlswholead.com/

Sista’s Keeper Crossword Puzzle

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Endometriosis, Continued from page 22 better care of your body and by knowing your body.

SK: Why do you think this form of cancer is not talked about?

CL: Endometriosis is not a form of cancer – but it has cancer-like stages (Minimal – Stage 1, Mild – Stage 2, Moderate – Stage 3 & Severe – Stage 4). View our website: http://www.heryellowribbon.org/what-is-endometriosis. html for more information on stages.

Endometriosis is not considered cancer because it is not terminal and cannot cause death on its own. However, Endometriosis has the ability to grow and spread – even throughout your body to your organs – causing complications.

I think that there is a lack of education about Endometriosis because it is not terminal. Because many women are diagnosed based on their extreme pain, the myth is that this is a disorder that is “all in your mind” – meaning that women who can’t tolerate pain must be that way because of their low tolerance and inability to deal with the pain, mentally.

SK: What are some things society can do to bring more awareness?

CL: As women, we should become more aware of conditions, like Endometriosis, and begin having open dialogue about these issues. I believe that the issue with awareness is that we don’t talk about our “personal” issues enough; when in reality, we should, because we can help one another.

SK: Why is it important to get regular checkups from the GYN? CL: It is important to get regular check-ups and to visit your GYN because proper gynecologic health can prevent a lifetime of issues. Things such as Endometriosis, Cancer, STI’s and other gynecologic issues can grow within a few weeks/months/years without checking on them. It may be uncomfortable, initially, but in the end, it is well worth knowing than not knowing!

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March 2015

Sista’s Keeper

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Black Women In History

Dorothy Dandrige First African-American actress to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress

By: Jamiya Turns

Richards in “Bright Road” 1954- Starred in “Carmen Jones”; nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress 1955- Featured on the cover of Life Magazine in November 1957- Played Margot Jeaton in “Island in the Sun” 1959- Appeared in “Porgy and Bess” and 1922- Dorothy Jean Dandrige was born on “Tamango”; married Jack Denison on June November 9th in Cleveland, Ohio 1937- Appeared in the Marxs Brothers film “A 22nd 1960- Starred as Gianna in “Malanga” Day at the Races” 1938- Appeared in “Going Places” 1962- Divorced Denison due to domestic 1941- Appeared in a musical called “Sun violence, money troubles and his misuse of her money Valley Serenade” 1965- Died in Los Angeles; was found in her 1942- Played African Princess Malimi in “Drums of Congo; married Harold Nicolas on home 1998- Biography by Donald Bogle, “Dorothy September 6th Dandridge: A Biography”, was released 1943- Daughter Harolyn was born on September 2nd 1999- Halle Berry won a Golden Globe award 1951-Divorced Nicholas in October; returned for her portal of Dorothy in “Introducing Dorothy Dandridge” to singing in night clubs 1953- Won her first starring role as Jane Dorothy Dandridge was one of the greats.

She was a triple threat, to the film industry because she was beautiful, she could sing and act.

Dorothy Dandridge sang at the world famous Apollo Theater in New York City. She also became the first African American woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for best actress.

She has broken many barriers for AfricanAmerican woman in film. She has been called the Jackie Robinson of the film industry.

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Sista’s Keeper

March 2015