October-November

Hector Cartagena

Sic Mic &Tone Bone

Drew Sidora

Extreme Cuts & Styles

an american dream

Beauty of the

Pat Richardson

Styles by Keenah

Month

Good Fellaz

Help Fight

Diabetes & More!

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Lawyers

International

Help Stop

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Giving all honor to God, I want to thank him for giving me favor. In this next issue I would like to talk about the importance of sticking together. I am reminded of a story about pop sickle sticks. If you take one pop sickle stick and attempt to break it, it’s very easy to do so. If you gather several pop sickle sticks together and attempt to break them, the task is very hard to do. So, what does this tell us…we are stronger together than we are apart. It is easy to adopt the attitude that we are autonomous and not in need of any help or assistance from anyone else. Truthfully, we ALL need someone else. We cannot exist without each other. If you’re in Hamp-

ton or Newport News and you need to get fresh, you should go and check out Official Tissue. Are you in need of a make over, then check out Maree Antonette, one of the hottest make-up artist in our area, known up and down the east coast. Ladies you know how important it is to look good, and because fashion is so serious make sure you check out Curvaceous Boutique one of Seven’s featured advertisers. Every business owner needs a consumer to enter their establishment and patronize their business. Every consumer needs businesses that offer products and services that they are in need of. So, since this is the case, we must all realize how important we are to each other. A popular gospel artist wrote a song stating “I need you to survive”. I’m driving down military highway and I’m seeing so many businesses closing down. In order for businesses to survive they need the consumer. Seven Magazine is thankful to every reader, business owner and advertiser who has supported US. We cannot exist without you!

Thomas Corbin Seven Magazine Editor in Chief

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Quality Workmanship Quality workmanship and “hands-on” management are keys to providing our customers superior products since 1978. We use only the finest quality building materials which can be seen on all of our buildings. We carry a wide selection of portable outbuildings, gazebos, steel carports, garages, lawn furniture, children’s gym sets and play equipment. Hundreds of combined sizes & styles in stock, ready for immediate delivery. Delivered or Built On-Site :: While most of our buildings are built at our location and then delivered to you, we also have the ability to build on-site. The benefit of delivery is that there is no mess to clean up and we are in and out in a matter of minutes. Built to Order We have five convenient locations throughout Virginia and North Carolina, offering a wide selection of inventory.

Most of our buildings are built to order, but we also have inventory onhand. Please call or email for pricing and availability. Convenience & Selection :: Wide selection of portable buildings Free Delivery & set up Locations in Moyock, Grandy, Elizabeth City, Roanoke Rapids & Suffolk Range of accessories from dog houses to windmills Stateline Builders stores servicing all of Tidewater and the outlying area of north east NC. 2017 Holland road. Suffolk Va

Grandy NC 252-453-6587

757-934-6836

Roanoke Rapids NC 252-537-9768

370 Caratoke hwy. Moyock NC

Greenville NC

252-353-6118

252-435-6118 1344 US 17 South Elizabeth City NC 252-264-6118

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PEACE

Hampton Roads, Caution & Velly Thank You.

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I f you’re looking for the best in urban wear and hair products, then Supreme Styles is for you. Located in Williamsburg, VA, Supreme Styles: Your Fashion and Beauty Connections, has everything you need to look and feel like a king or queen.

Supreme Styles is owned and operated

by Ray Paige and Kent Coleman. Ray states that he has always had a passion for

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clothing. Ray and Kent saw a need for urban wear in Williamsburg, VA so they decided to open up a store. At first, Kent started off vending in Newport News, VA. Ray had a friend who was about to close her store, so they took over the lease. With only a drive and determination, these young men started a much needed business in Hampton Roads. As business grew, soon customers started

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asking for beauty products and the gentlemen fulfilled their request.

Supreme Styles sells everything from lower end clothes for women. Such clothes include So ‘ho Babe and Sweet Vibes to higher end clothes such as Apple Bottom and Baby Phat. They even have something for the plus size woman. Men clothes vary from lower end lines such as Delf and P.J. Mark to higher end lines like Akademiks.

Some of their hair products include Milky Way, Freetress, Beverly Johnson, and Dr. Miracle. They also have a nice selection of Front Lace wigs amongst their wig collection.

Looking for customized t-shirts for family reunions or church functions? No problem. Supreme Styles has you covered in that department too. They also support local R&B and Gospel music artists, youth,

and church groups.

Starting a business isn’t easy, but they offer this advice for any person wanting to own their own business: “Find something that you are passionate about and be prepared for long hours, but know that it will pay off.

And they add nothing good comes easy.”

So where can you find Supreme Styles? Well, they have two locations to suit customer’s needs. One is 551 D Merrimac Trail Williamsburg, VA 23185 (757) 221-0220 and the other is 5242 Olde Towne Road Unit 3 and 4 Williamsburg, VA 23188 (757) 2210227 or check them out on the web at www.supremestyles1.com.

Supreme Styles is truly your one stop shop for your fashion and beauty needs.

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(ARA) - Most parents will agree that a child’s emotional well-being is just as important as their physical health. Kids who learn to communicate feelings have a better sense of self awareness. This benefits their relationships with parents and with their peers.

she sings the “Friends Make Me Super Happy” song from the show; and when she’s feeling giggly, she makes a silly face. This toy is an easy way to help your child learn about their emotions and how to express them.

How can you teach your child to manage both positive and negative moods in an emotionally intelligent manner? Here are some ideas for ways to get your kids to express what they are feeling in a healthy way:

4. Lead by example

1. Talk it out The first thing that every parent should try is talking to their children about what they are feeling, especially when they are dealing with negative feelings. Try to figure out the origin of the emotion. It helps to encourage them to use the word “I” when they explain their feelings. For example, “I feel sad when” or “I feel excited because.”

2. Utilize visuals If verbalizing emotions isn’t an easy thing for your child to do, start by sitting down and coloring pictures together. Some children will open up instantly when they have a creative outlet for expression. Ask your child to explain their drawing. Don’t let them do all the work, parents should draw and explain the feelings involved in their picture as well.

This exercise just might be the perfect icebreaker.

Your child is in constant observation of your behavior. So when you’re feeling happy or sad, talk about it with your child. After a tough day at work, have a short conversation over dinner about how you are tired because work today was hard and how you hope tomorrow is better. If you’re excited for an upcoming event, let your child know what you think about the event and why you are looking forward to it. Talking about life and demonstrating how to properly handle both positive and negative emotions are good ways to lead by example.

Try one or more of these ideas to help your child learn about emotions and feelings. If one doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to try another one. With time and patience, every child can learn about feelings and how to properly manage their moods.

3. Choose emotionally intelligent toys With a little research, parents can find toys for their kids that help them learn and express their emotions. One great example is the Super Special Friend Kai-lan doll.

Based on the character Kai-lan from Nickelodeon’s hit animated preschool series, Ni Hao, Kai-lan, this interactive doll invites the child to hold Kai-lan’s hand as her heart will light up in one of six different colors, each corresponding to a different emotion. The doll also moves her head, eyes and arms in response to how she’s feeling, and asks girls and boys to interact with her. When she’s sad, she asks for a hug; when she’s happy

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(ARA) - Japan has the lowest obesity rate in the developed world - 3 percent versus 32 percent in the United States, according to the International Obesity Taskforce.

Many believe the good overall health and long life expectancy rate of the Japanese is due to their diet.

“People in Japan tend to eat smaller portions of healthier types of food,” says Dr. Mark Drucker, medical director of the Center for Advanced Medicine in Encinitas, Calif. “Eating plenty of low-mercury fatty fish, fresh vegetables and limiting red meat and refined sugars all contribute to this healthy lifestyle.

What can you do to reap the benefits of the Japanese diet at home? Here are some easy ideas from Dr. Drucker:

it yourself. Try having a sushi-rolling party with your friends as a fun way to eat healthy and learn about another culture.

Making sushi yourself doesn’t need to be difficult. Pick up a book with stepby-step instructions and a sushi starter kit with a rolling mat. “Good beginner items that pack a healthy punch are smoked salmon, eel and pre-cooked crab and lobster meat. If you’d prefer to skip the meat, there are many vegetarian options. Try adding carrots, cucumber, green onion and daikon radish for a tasty, and healthy, treat,” comments Drucker.

2. Eat fresh veggies every day

Eating more fresh vegetables, raw when possible, is a great way to get many of the health benefits enjoyed by Sushi, a Japanese diet staple, is popular the Japanese people. A general rule is throughout the United States. Many to eat vegetables in a wide range of colgrocery stores now carry pre-made ors, including dark green produce such sushi you can buy and snack on at home. as broccoli, spinach, kale and Swiss Another fun way to enjoy sushi iswww.757pages.net to make chard. These all provide high levels of 1. Try cultural cuisine

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antioxidants and vitamin C, and many are shown to have cancer-preventing properties.

3. Consider a healthy detoxifying supplement Chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the greenest plants on Earth, is a central property of immune-boosting, anti-aging vegetables. “Plants require chlorophyll to obtain energy from light, so it’s no surprise an ancient alga called chlorella - which contains the most amount of chlorophyll of any digestible substance - can be called nature’s green secret weapon when it comes to its long-term energy effect on human health. Chlorophyll is also one of the few and most effective ways to help the body eliminate mercury,” says Drucker.

As many Americans struggle to reach the USDA-recommended five to seven vegetable servings per day, supplementing your diet with powerful green whole foods can provide a great alternative to fresh vegetables. Much like how Americans regularly take a vitamin C supplement, many Japanese take a supplement called Sun Chlorella to utilize the superfood benefits of chlorella, which contain the widest range of essential nutrients available in any single food source.

Chlorella’s popularity in Japan spans decades, and its health benefits are more

than anecdotal. A 2008 human clinical study showed that a daily serving of Sun Chlorella had positive results on several key blood levels and health markers including body fat percentage, serum total cholesterol and maintaining blood glucose levels.

This may be the result of Sun Chlorella’s unique pulverization process, which makes otherwise-inconsumable chlorella digestible by humans.

4. Enjoy fatty fish for good health Most people have heard of omega-3, a good type of fatty acid. Research has shown that omega-3 supports cardiovascular health, immune function, brain health and could even have anti-cancer benefits.

Some healthy fish options that are packed with omega-3s include salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines. Visit the Asian food section of your local grocery store to find some Japanese seasoning and sauces and try flavoring these types of fish with them for a truly authentic meal.

“Not only do these types of foods have many health benefits, but they are absolutely delicious and can be made to order,” comments Drucker. “Whether it’s steaming some salmon and veggies or incorporating Sun Chlorella tablets into your daily regimen, I truly believe that taking health cues from a traditional Japanese diet can benefit almost everyone.”

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On Sunday nights in Hampton Roads, while many people are focused on getting ready for the start of a new work week, there is one man who makes the weekend last just a little bit longer with his comedic talent for making people laugh. Montee Rogers, a native from Charlotte, N.C, and a Norfolk State University alumnist, started his career as a stand-up comedian three years ago when he felt the urge to get on stage at the Virginia Beach Funny Bone Comedy Club, and try his hand at making people laugh. With the success of his first gig, Montee decided to commit full time to pursuing his dream of breaking into the entertainment industry with his comedic chops.

himself and not hire a manager to do the work for him. “I started learning about the business from the inside out”, states Rogers, “I’m really my boss at this and I like it that way”. With a little tenacity and a whole lot of talent, he has made himself a regular every Sunday night at 8:30 at the “Laugh Out Loud” comedy show located at Jillians in Downtown Norfolk and the Funny Bone Comedy Club in Virginia Beach, every Wednesday night.

Now with his career on track, Montee uses celebrity comedic actor, Martin Lawrence as his inspiration towards reaching success. Like Lawrence, Rogers hopes that he too will make his mark on television and film with his own sit-com, movies, and stand-up comedy shows. “I really want to get things established here in Virginia Beach; bring like a Hollywood here”, says Montee. Unlike many entertainers starting out, Rogers decided to represent

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(ARA) - As the recession continues to take its toll, college grads have to work harder to stand out. Businesses expect to hire 22 percent fewer recent grads in 2009, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Competition for available jobs is fierce, even among candidates armed with a college degree.

If you’re one of the millions of graduates looking for a job this year, there are some basic things you can do to stay ahead of the competition.

Use technology to stay ahead of the game Windows-powered PCs can help you stay ahead of the competition when it comes to college funding, admissions and job opportunities.

Use your networking skills You probably already know that social networking sites are a great way to meet new people, but they can also help you stay ahead academically and begin job networking before you graduate.

Create a calendar If you’re already having nightmares about oversleeping on the day of the big exam or forgetting an internship interview with a Fortune 500 company, it’s time to create an online calendar. An online calendar allows you to share access with other important people in your lives, so you can remember that important interview as quickly as you remember to call Grandma on her birthday.

Find a job that relates to your major or your interests Working and going to school isn’t easy, and you’ll be even less inclined to enjoy your job if it bores you. While you may not find your dream job right now, any opportunity to see if you enjoy working in your ideal industry is a good learning experience.

Look for internships Now is a prime opportunity to get experience that can build into a full-time job after graduation, and it’s also the one time in your life when you can live very cheaply. Internships don’t often pay well or anything at all,

but they often count for course credit and always build your résumé, so take advantage of them while you can.

Start job hunting a semester (or more) before graduation Every May, the job market is flooded with new graduates ready and eager to find work.

If you start sending out résumés, going on interviews and networking ahead of your classmates, you can have a job lined up before you even get your diploma. You can really enjoy walking across that stage even more when you’ve already accepted an offer.

Remember that you’re a working student Although a lot changes from high school to college, some things stay the same, namely, the need to remain focused on school and taking the job seriously. Don’t forget to study for an exam because of work. (And don’t forget to show up for work because you were having too much fun.)

Don’t forget to have fun No matter how hard you work, this summer is still sure to have some special events and fun moments. Be sure to record them and share them with friends. Start with a good digital camera -- prices have dropped in recent years, making them affordable for just about everyone. Look for features like red-eye reduction and the number of mega-pixels.

Don’t fall into the trap of leaving photos on your camera. Upload your images with online photo-sharing software or Web sites. Services like Windows Live Photo Gallery make it easy to edit, store and share photos for free. Consider creating photo books of your summer’s highlight images to share with friends.

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(ARA) - Does your monthly stack of bills leave you wondering where your bailout is? For many Americans, money is tight and spending has become more conservative, but this does not mean that you lack options when it comes to reducing your debt.

“Getting out of debt is a viable possibility for most people,” says Daniel Wesley at creditloan.com, a comprehensive Web site on personal finance. “The way America views debt and money is changing, and many people are taking advantage of resources so they can become financially secure today and in the future.”

Here are some easy steps to consider for managing debt in any economy: 1. Assess all your debts and loans The only way to start fixing your debt problem is to see where you realistically stand. Write down all your loans and credit card debts along with their interest rates and monthly payment requirements. Federal law states that you can print out a free credit report once a year, so this would be a good time to review and fix any errors.

2. Set a manageable budget Determine what your expenses are each month.

Food, fuel, insurance, utilities -- be sure to include everything with a regular expense. After you know your cost of living, you can see how much you have left to go toward your debts.

3. Be credit card smart It’s best to keep only one or two credit cards for your personal use and pay off debt monthly. If you have rotating debt like many people do, find out if you can negotiate better terms with your credit card company. It’s possible to reduce your interest rate or settlement on some debt just by asking.

Be firm yet courteous when negotiating with a customer service representative.

4. Is debt consolidation an option?

The concept of debt consolidation is very attractive: bundle multiple monthly payments into one single payment to make paying bills easier. Usually these payments are at a reduced interest rate, so you can also save money. If you have significant debt, this can be a good option, but there are some things you should remember.

Debt consolidation does not write off your debt, it simply transfers the debt to a new lender who will work with you to find a manageable payment plan. A debt consolidation loan is typically a secured loan with your home as collateral, effectively making it a second mortgage. Some loans are unsecured without collateral, but the interest rates are typically much higher.

“If you decide to consolidate debt, you must analyze your spending habits immediately and act responsibly,” says Wesley.

“For example, if you consolidate your credit card debt, don’t start spending on those cards again once you clear the balance. You must make the commitment to live within your means, no matter what your financial situation.”

If you would like more information about dealing with debt the right way, visit www.creditloan. com. All resource information is check out Seven Tv @ www.757pages.net free, comprehensive, objective and updated daily.

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At 1517 Lynnhaven Parkway is a miniature replica of the greater American melting pot. For the past ten years, Extreme Cuts & Style Barbershop’s clientele have represented numerous ethnicities such as, Spanish, Mexican, Columbian, Philippine, and Caucasian (just to name a few). The range of techniques and personal styles utilized by the Extreme Cuts & Style barbers allows

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for equal demand of varied requests.

These stylists know every ethnicity, and more specifically, every individual who is part of that ethnicity, will have a different hair texture, need, and preference. The professionalism and genuine concern of each barber meets this challenge every time. However, the barbers at Extreme Cuts & Style model more than the best haircuts

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and latest trends, they demonstrate the rewarding life that comes with a good reputation based on consistently doing one’s best and helping others.

The motto of Extreme Cuts & Style seems to be, “Do great work and be good to people”. As the barbers have practiced this day in and day out they simultaneously have created a relaxed, safe, comfortable, and family-friendly atmosphere.

While the business has grown over the years, this original goal, set by entrepreneur, Jose (“Maneco”) Rivera, has not changed since he took over the shop. Admittedly, it was tough at the beginning to transform a shop previously concerned only with making money to the inviting “community center” it is today. Now, “we’re always talking, about family, our kids…we help people out this way”. Barbers take the time to get to know each client and what has been going on in their lives, all while providing customized services. For this reason, they do not have a set price list, but charge based on the client’s specific wishes, nothing more, nothing less. Some of their customary services include, beard design, hairstyles, short haircuts (for females too), and eyebrows.

Owner, Maneco, grew up in Pennsylvania where he learned to cut hair from the Spanish community. They demanded very “clean and picky” haircut“… very picky,” Maneco chuckled, but that strict training enabled him to do what he does today and for that he is grateful. Primarily, Maneco wishes to thank God for leading him through life and for all the blessings he has today. In addition, he would like to say, “thanks a lot,” to Yiyi, a “little corner in Virginia Beach” who changed his life. Although he was not a “bad guy”, he did not care much about his life. Yiyi showed him “how good life can be and how important it is.” From her example and encouragement, Maneco changed his whole life and now wants to renovate the barber industry and start chain shops, beginning in the Hampton Roads area. “She made me see the world differently. That’s why I love her a lot.”

Take a pair of yard sale clippers, add some parental encouragement, combine “training from the streets” with formal cosmetology school, and a broad range of work experience in salons and barbershops both in the US and abroad in Puerto Rico, and you come out with the condensed version of Maneco’s history. Now, with kids of his own whom he “loves with all my heart,” he is actively refining Extreme Cuts & Style Barbershop to serve best the individuals and families of all ethnicities in the Hampton Roads area. Whether by appointment or walk in, Extreme Cuts & Style is available to all persons and people groups Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Saturdays from 10am-6pm.

Contact: 757-368-2889

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“It’s just hair. It will grow”. Ever heard that after a hair cut? This truth holds little relevance to the businessperson with a promotion interview, the college freshman starting a new school, or the prom queen hopeful. If this statement brings back memories of past haircuts and styles, there is a salon dedicated to ease your fears by operating on a strict “honesty is the best policy” motto. The professionals at Hair Facts & Design by Renee take full responsibility for making sure each client leaves looking and feeling better than when they came in. Years of school and experience compel each stylist to suggest a compatible alternative to an ill-fitting style, color, or overall look in order to bring out your natural beauty and inherent positive assets. Be assured, a more attractive and confident individual will leave Hair Facts & Design by Renee than the one who walked in.

Renee Holley, a single mother moved to Virginia Beach after completing her license in cosmetology at Wards Corner Beauty Academy in Norfolk. She began building a clientele at a local salon and when asked to leave, started what is now Hair Facts & Design by Renee with her faithful clientele. She wishes to primarily thank God for his hand of provision upon her life as well as her mother who pushed and encouraged her dreams and her clients who inspire her to do better and continue to expand the influence of her salon. The salon is open Monday- Friday from 8:00am-2:30pm and Saturdays from 8:00am-6:00pm where both walk-ins and appointments are welcome. The community has given Holley the foundation for her business and she in turn is always looking for innovative ways to give back. Last year she hosted a “Day of Beauty” at the salon and girls who could not ordinarily afford quality hair care, came, free of charge, for back-to-school haircuts. In an effort to rally together the community, she co-sponsored a hair and fashion show at the local library with TJ Maxx and Carlyle Williams (out of Newport News) where 10% of all proceeds went to library funding. In light of the economic recession, Hair Facts & Design by Renee will offer discounts for those working at minimum wage positions this summer.

Holley’s underlying mission has always been to stay open in order to support outside goals of serving her surrounding community. When she opened the salon back in 2007, her mission was three parts: First, she offered apprenticeship where students could “earn while they learn”. Second, to be in a business that could open many other doors, and finally, to offer clients knowledge about hair and products right from the salon she managed according to her own preferences.

As she has stepped through those opened doors over the past two years, she has grown to love the industry more and more and wants to continue to help people in any way she can. Hair Facts & Design by Renee’s reciprocal honesty policy has allowed Holley to build beneficial relationships and swap constructive criticism, ultimately improving and ensuring her business will be around doing good for many years to come. contact: 757.305.7080

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* Natural perfection by Petra Strand, makeup artist and creator of Pixi.

Switch to a base that is sheer and use a concealer for those areas that need extra help. Use a cheek gel with a transparent touch of color on the apples of the cheeks. Switch from full coverage lipsticks to a tint of color. * Sophisticated glamour by celebrity makeup artist Napoleon Perdis.

Pick your favorite red and make sure to always apply lip liner. Dab some gloss only on the center of the pout, over lipstick. Use a neutral palette of taupe eye shadows for a seductive eye and never forget your mascara.

(ARA) - With the season of soirees upon us, the ultimate look is needed to stand out among the crowd. Be your own makeup artist by trying these three looks from the pros. * Smokey eyes by international makeup artist, Jemma Kidd.

Sweep a light highlighter shade over the whole lid to the browbone. Apply a dark shade along the lashline, blending up and outwards. Smudge eyeliner across upper and lower lashline; use black for ultra intensity. Finish off with dark, black mascara. check out Seven Tv @ www.757pages.net

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(ARA) - This fall, thousands of people nationwide will walk to help change the future of diabetes. Rain or shine, walkers will join together to stop this disease, which kills thousands of people annually.

Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes is the American Diabetes Association’s signature fundraising walk event. This event raises over $20 million to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

Reasons why you should Step Out and walk to stop diabetes: * You are showing support for the nearly 24 million children and adults in the U.S. with diabetes and the millions more at

risk. Most people are affected by diabetes or know someone who is. * There is no fundraising minimum. * Routes are for everyone regardless of age or athletic ability. They range from 2 to 6 miles. * The day of the event is a party to celebrate the accomplishments of all the teams and individual participants as well as an opportunity to promote awareness about diabetes.

For more information or to register for a Step Out event in your community, visit www.diabetes.org/stepout or call (888) DIABETES (888-342-2383).

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Hampton Roads has managed to create a new definition to the term entrepreneur with the birth of a new generation of businessmen. Over six years ago, two young men decided to turn their love for music and entertainment into a money making corporation. Live Wire Empire Incorporated, founded by Excell and Swagg, has managed to venture from an idea passed around between them into the makings of a national phenomenon.

Natasha: How exactly did you guys get started with Live Wire Incorporated?

Swagg: At first we started off as a group of friends just going out and having fun, it was about forty of us; then after realizing the influence we were having on a people that’s when we decided to start something. There

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were many ideas but music was everyone’s first love and option. From there we grew from a crew going out having fun to actually doing something productive with the idea and that’s how Live Wire started.

Natasha: Is Live Wire a production company? Are you going out and recruiting new artists and building their careers within your business?

Swagg: That’s why we named it Incorporated because we didn’t want it to be boxed into any one category. We didn’t want to be a record label or just a production company. We’re trying to hit every facet of the game….modeling, film, fashion, and music. That’s why we named it Incorporated.

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Natasha: What is everyone’s role? Is there a president or CEO?

out right now do you compare yourselves to?

Excell: Swagg and I are the CEO’s of the company. Corporate Will is in charge of the marketing and promotional advertisement for the company. He has his own company that is branched off our emblem of Live Wire Empire called Will Power Marketing. We’re starting off a branch of different companies to our parent company and Will Power Marketing is the first one of it. He’s still affiliated with Live Wire but we (Swagg and I) make the executive decisions for the company.

Excell: There’s no specific comparison.

There’s no major company out right now that has the vision that Live Wire has and that embodies the movement we are trying to create. That’s why we are unique in our own way. There’s Def Jam and there’s Rockafella and Bad Boy; however, here at Live Wire we want to create philanthropists, and politicians…we want to create a different genre of individuals beyond just music. Entertainment is just an avenue that we are using to expose what we are capable of. We’re not comparing ourselves to the next No Limit Records or any other company out now; not to

Corporate Will: They kind of give me the word and I take my own ideas and go from there.

Natasha: What major music industry label

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knock them because if it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be where we are now, they are pioneers who set the blue print for us to follow. But we would like to have Live Wire law firms Schools, Hospitals and many more ventures that are created under our business. There is so much more to offer in the future.

Natasha: So you guys want to be the trendsetters, the first ones to set it off.

Excell: Absolutely!

Corporate Will: We’re the future pioneers In addition to building their empire, these guys also managed to take time out of their day to give back to the community through a mentorship to local kids in the city of Portsmouth.

They talk to the high school students at IC Norcom High School and are part of the Boys to Men program set up with the school. It’s a program set up with the inner city kids to teach them that they can set dreams and aspirations to do whatever they choose in life; to also know that they have more options available in life. Not only are they involved in the community of Hampton Roads, they are also dedicated to the U.S Navy. After being deployed together recently to Iraq as well as other parts of the Middle East, the men were able to further their goals together and get their name out amongst their fellow shipmates.

Natasha: It’s great that you are able to expand your fan base beyond the military community into Hampton Roads. Do you have any plans to further your base to areas even outside of Hampton Roads, maybe D.C, New York.

Swagg: Definitely… in the next couple of months I plan on making the move to D.C so we’re definitely going to be up there. In the next year he (Excell) is going to bring the business up to New York since that’s where he’s from. So we’re trying to cover all facets of the East Coast.

Natasha: So everyone is going to know all about your music, fashion, and movies.

Swagg: Oh yeah we got a couple of people up in New York, D.C, Maryland, and Philly so we’re trying to cover everything.

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Natasha: So do you guys plan on staying in the military and building your business at the same time?

Swagg: No, the military was like a stepping stone for all of this. We never would have met each other if it wasn’t for the military. This business is our life and our careers. We were fortunate for the military to help us out.

Corporate Will: They were stationed here first and then I came along and we just made history. We’re like a family.

Excell: Destiny has its ways…when the stars lined it’s all up to destiny…it was beyond our control. It just so happened that everyone had chemistry. Live Wire is the foundation that help us put our minds together and take our ideas to the next level.

Everybody’s creative view is respected.

Natasha: Is there anyone in the entertainment industry that you look up to as a role model right now?

Corporate Will: Wow!…Dame Dash…Dame Dash for me because I’m into marketing and love to promote. I also look at Diddy too because he did it well.

Swagg: Russell (Simmons)….he was the pioneer because he laid down the blue print for how to be independent and do your own thing. As far an artist or businessman…I got give it up to Jay Z. Besides just being a rapper he’s a businessman.

Excell: I just appreciate everyone for what they do in this music industry however, I look at people like Jack Welch who was the CEO for General Electrics for 20 years. That’s an amazing feat for someone to run a company that long…that’s unheard of on this planet…usually as a CEO you get a 5 years but he was able to do it for 20 years.

Natasha: So we’ve talked about the music and the movie aspect of your business but what about the fashion? What’s going on with that and what can we look for?

Swagg: As far as Fashion, we’ve worked for a couple of modeling agencies. We always have our own fashion sense and we were always into it.

Excell: We have affiliations…such as Team Y.A.S which is a modeling company. We got our partner T.J who’s heavy in the streets right now, he’s running the 7 cities doing

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fashion shows. He’s currently overseas right now but will be back next month. We are affiliated with them and they run the modeling business in the local 757.

Natasha: With music, is there a certain genre with in hip hop that you are focusing on or are you trying to cover the globe and take artists of all types? What type of artists are you looking for?

Corporate Will: I feel like we are open to all types of artists you know for entertainment business. Anyone who can entertain you know. We’re open to all kinds.

Excell: We felt like I needed to step up as to be an artist myself, so I can set the standard to show what type of music were looking for even though we are open to all types of entertainment. We as a team decided that I would be the one to step up and set the standard of what level of art…I don’t want to call it music but level of art, because I don’t want to box it in, that we are willing to stand by. The next person that comes up and wants to be affiliated with Live Wire has to respect our foundation. When it comes down to it, do they compliment the movement?

Natasha: Would you consider yourself to be the face of Live Wire music?

Excell: Absolutely!

Natasha: And what is your music about?

Excell: My music is about empowerment, enlightenment…my music is all about Excelling yourself to the next level. That’s why my name is Excell. We working on many projects right now, we also have Razor Sharp from Virginia Beach with Masked Militia Ent. He’s one of our Artist as well, he’s mixtape is out now called My Face is Not Important. So look out for that. Then there is The Conquer it all Soundtrack and the DVD Documentary Movie that’s coming out later this year as well as my solo project Blood, Sweat and Tears the Album.

Natasha: Is there an artist out right now that you would say that your music is similar to that people can identify with?

Excell: oh yeah….yeah right now I am a big fan of Drake. People get so caught up in the way he flows and the beats but they don’t listen to what this dude is saying. He’s able to make a party song and talk about different issues. Drake is a beast right now.

When I listen to Drake it makes me want to get on my grind lyrically. I listen to Nas, Fabulous and TI. Right now if you compare it to the type of music that’s out

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right now…it would be Drake and Fabulous. They’re tearing up the charts so we’re feeding off that momentum right now.

Natasha: It pretty much sounds like Live Wire music is going to working with artists who are about something. Sending out a message to the community and putting out a single that will just sell records. Is that true?

Swagg: we’re not trying to have people signed to us. We’re trying to have people have their own movement but compliment ours too. If you have a movement that’s strong, we can help you get it to the next level by surrounding you with people that are as passionate as you are about your Art. Excell: See, there’s a saying that goes, ‘we’re not out here looking for the helping hand. We’re out here looking for the hand that’s heavy. You must first show that you are willing to help yourself before anyone can help you. We’re here to provide leverage. We’re looking for the hand that’s heavy.

Natasha: Is there a website that people can go to to check out more information about you guys?

Corporate Will: In the next month or so, we should have the website up for both Live Wire Empire Incorporated and for Will Power Marketing so look out for that.

Excell: We’re going to be heavy in the streets! VA is going to hear about us. You can catch us at Club Posh Dolce and Velvet Lounge With DJ Chino on the one’s and two’s (Downtown Norfolk on Granby Street) come check us out there. We also have events coming up at the Virginia Beach House of Comedy so look out for that.

The fact that these brothas are not only reaching outside the box in business but aspire greatness in the community is astounding and rewarding.

They are sending a positive influence to younger generations looking up to them that if you want to be something in life you have to make moves to get it. To get more information about Live Wire Empire Incorporated and hear more about their upcoming events log onto www.myspace.com/excell_livewire or email them at dakingizcoming@yahoo.com twitter.com/excell1980

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encouraging students to fully understand the time and effort required to pursue their education.

ARA) - As the slowed economy has fueled a very competitive job market, more and more adults are making the decision to go back to school to build upon their skills and obtain the knowledge required to strengthen their career prospects.

Many of these students heading back into the classroom are working to earn their bachelors, or obtain a second degree while they juggle class and study time with their work, life and family responsibilities. Many educational institutions are taking notice of this, and

DeVry University’s Senior Career Services Advisor and adjunct professor Kim Smith teaches a critical thinking and problem-solving course that introduces campus resources and academic information to help students “conquer obstacles that can prevent the achievement of their educational goals” - shortened as the acronym COPE. “Most student responsibilities include work, family, and financial obligations in addition to completing their degree, and, as a result, it can be a difficult challenge to find the right balance between them,” says Smith. “This course helps students develop a plan toward graduation based on the amount of time they currently have available for their class and study time. For students to effectively manage their time, they must first understand how they use their time.”

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Throughout my life I have come across a wide variety of people.

Some standout in such a way that you just cant quite put your finger on it. Hector Cartagena is one of those few people. Within the first few moments of meeting him, I could tell he was articulate and could see his genuine spirit. I wasn’t quite sure what type of interview he would give but noticed how I quickly felt comfortable and at home in his presence. We introduced ourselves and discussed minor topics before we got to the heavy part of the interview. Hector busy with the

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helping customers over the phone seemed to be the glue that kept his busy Tire and Rim shop together. Pulling him away for a few moments to sit and talk seemed difficult. Finally Hector hangs up the phone and walks around the reception desk and escorts me to an office in the back where it is not so loud. However he is unable to leave the phone in front.

Busy with calling customers I can see that business is good. I can tell right away that Hector is a family man and organized to say the least. I pull my tape recorder out and ask my first question.

So how did Hectors Tires and Rims all start?

Hector: Well I opened in May of 2000. I moved from NY in 1996 and got a job up the street at the tire shop. I actually drove Tow Trucks in New York but when I got down here I got lost every 5 minutes (We laugh). So I started working at a tire shop and I worked there for a couple years and soonbecome a manager and then I just got tired of working for somebody else.

For a young entreprenuer starting a company, how did you find funding or resources to get your company going?

Well I saved a lot of money and took a bank loan out for the rest.

Was this Hectors Tires and Rims first initial location?

Yeah, this was my first initial spot, Little Creek Road we have been here for 9 years now.

What have you learned the most from being your own boss?

my own shop is a illegal hustle. I love it.

Now that you’ve been here for so long are there other ventures or avenues of business you want to explore? Have you worked with artist or anything like that?

Yeah we’ve done a couple things here and there with some artists. I’m not really into that cause I don’t know that much about it. But I do now some major artists that we have done some things with. Just recently I have opened another shop in Newport News and I am trying to get that up and running. It has been a year now since we have had the Newport News shop open. As far as other business ventures right now I’m trying to stick with stuff I know and love. If anyone were trying to open up a business I would tell him or her to open up something that they are knowledgeable in and passionate about. You got to love what you do.

I can only imagine how many faces in a day you have to wear or business caps as they say in this line of work to keep things moving swiftly. With all that how do find time for yourself?

I don’t do much…. I work and stay close to those in my circle.

I can see you’re a family man, I have noticed the pictures up?

Yeah I have a couple daughters but I’m single. I think that the hardest thing about being in this type of business is finding someone to be with someone that will roll with you. You know, someone really down with me and on my team and they’re not just looking at the chrome.

It’s got its ups and downs. Some days you’re on top of the world and some days your looking at the bank teller funny. I So do you get groupies? love it though, I love what I do! I mean, I\ (He laughs) Yeah I guess you can say know about what I do. I’ve been dealing that. You get some girls that are more with tires and rims for a very long time. interested in the chrome. Its not that it’s I’ve been doing this since New York. It’s a difficult to deal with but you definitely legal hustle, when I was younger and in got to weed people out. I thank I’m New York I got into a lot of trouble. Having www.757pages.net

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gifted in that; God has given me that gift. Its hard, you get a couple that slide threw though. You got to see whose there to be their and whose just there to take from you.

So what do you, Hector Cartagena, want in the next 5 years?

I want to rule the world! (We both laugh) Explain what you mean when you say you want to rule the world?

Because you said you want to stick with what you know and love? Everyday I try figure out a way to better myself. Every day I set a goal for myself, I try to look at every week like okay I want to do this and this, etc.

It becomes addicting, the more you set goals for your self the more you set standards for yourself.

Was your first year the hardest?

My first 5 years were hard. (He laughs) Tell me about that because there are a lot of entrepreneurs that read Seven and want to start their own business?

I mean its hard, I think I made it by the grace of God. I have a lot of faith you know. I’m from the hood and I grew up in the street and all that.

I’ve done probably what a lot of cats have done or are doing. When I made a decision that I was not going to live that life style anymore and that I was done with it, it was hard. If you think about it, you then have to get a job that gives you a certain amount of money.

Almost the amount you are use to getting in the street. It’s hard. But I would tell someone that wants to start a business to get involved with something they know and love and pray about it.

Be more specific about your first year?

Well my first year was hard; I was about to jump off the bridge. (We laugh) Did you have a lot of employee’s? check out Seven Tv @ www.757pages.net

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Yeah and I still have some of the same catz that have been with me since New York. It was hard I put all my money into my company. When I opened up we didn’t have enough money to get the sign because it was like six grand.

And we didn’t have enough money to get a balancer so we had a little bubble balancer that you kick around with a tire on it. So yeah we’ve come along way.

Did you at least break even your first year?

I took a loss, but I stood with it. It’s hard, it is real work. If your not going to get up in the morning, or if your going to get a little money and start clubbin or going here and going there its going to fail. Basically if you don’t put anything into it you wont get anything out. You have to set standards for yourself. Like no, I can’t go to the club or I can’t go do this, I have to get up and handle stuff in the morning. And even when the whole world seems to be against you, sit back and think about the people in Iraq or the people who have it worse than you.

I mean if you think about it your chillin on Little Creek Road you may not have any money to pay the bills, but your still here and your still blessed. I mean you’re in the United States of America, where literally people are dying each day to get in this country.

Wow, that’s so true. Tell me a little about your heritage? You say you’re from New York?

Yeah I’m from NY, I’m from the Bronx.

Were you born and raised there?

“I just wasn’t ready. I made a little money and thought I was Jay-Z” Have you ever thought about going back to New York or opening a shop up there?

Its too many shops up there, I mean New York is full. Its beginning to be a lot of shops out here in VA, its like everybody wants to open a rim shop now.

When you started you could name how many shops there were?

On Little Creek there was only maybe four, now there are well over ten.

With your dedication and hard work when do you find the time for yourself? I mean you have everything?

Except it seems a leading lady? (He smiles)

It’s hard I think my expectations are too high. Its like I’ve passed up maybe two women in my lifetime. Not that I’m still sprung but I can look back as a man and say I was an hardhead. I just wasn’t ready. I made a little money and thought I was Jay-Z (We laugh); I was in the streets acting crazy. Lately I feel like I deal with these girls that www.757pages.net

No I was born in Puerto Rico and my mother moved us to Brooklyn first but I only lived there for maybe 3 years of my life. Then she brought us to the Bronx. I was raised there and then my brother got into the military in 1996. I wasn’t doing anything but getting into

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trouble and my mother was wonderful she passed away about 3 years ago but she did a really good job of raising us, you know raising men. And she told me once your either going to die or your going to be in jail if you stay around here. She told me to go to VA with my brother and try it out, if you don’t like it you can come back, she wasn’t putting me out by no means.

She just saw what I couldn’t see at the time.

don’t have the same ambition that I have and I like a girl that has some kind of selfrespect. Maybe its karma I don’tknow! (He smiles). I don’t want someone that gets drunk when I take them out. I just want to have someone that is a good person and some goals and is doing something with there life. You know, maybe they will have some traits like my mother as far taking care of business and family.

I definitely respect that decision. It is hard in general to find the right fit when it comes to love. But you know I’m optimistic your queen is out there.

(We laugh) Well I wish you all the best in all your endeavourers and I thank you for this wonderful interview.

Is there anything that you want to shot out?

Oh definitely, “Hectors Tires and Rims,” will never be undersold by any other company, if you need any work for your tires or are interested in getting rims and want the best quality come by and check us out. And also regardless what happens in your life keep your faith in God. I come from that block of cheese too! I understand what it takes to get here.

Nevertheless Hector Cartagena was one of those souls you meet far and few between. It was an honor to sit and kick it with the man behind one of the premiere Tire and Rims shops in the HamptonRoads area. Make sure you all go check him out!

Hectors Tires and Rims is located on 3840 E. Little Creek Road Norfolk, Virginia Hours are 9am to 7pm Monday-Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday. Check them on the web at www.hectorstiresandrims.com or call (757)-480-7266 in Norfolk or their Newport News location at 757-223-7409. check out Seven Tv @ www.757pages.net

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My cousin received a black Mercedes as a wedding gift from her husband. As beautiful as the car was, the ride was even better. I told my cousin that I had never experienced such a smooth ride. It felt like we were riding on air! When I do decide to purchase my Mercedes; I will definitely purchase it from Keith Ivey.

Keith Ivey of Showcase Imports located at 5820 Jefferson Ave. in Newport News, VA is definitely the “go to guy” when looking for or purchasing a vehicle. Showcase Imports sells upper end vehicles like Mercedes, Bentleys, and BMWs. Keith can help anyone walk away with a luxury preowned vehicle.

Keith was raised by his grandmother, Mildred Ivey in downtown Newport News, says she always encouraged him to follow his dreams. Keith began his career at Showcase Imports transporting cars.

The owner, Virgil Williams, and the Vice-President, Janice Parker, mentored him and

helped him to become the successful sales consultant he is today. “Virgil and Janice just took me under their wings. They showed me the business and kept me motivated,” says Keith.

Although Keith is new to the sales consulting business, he has already received some awards for his hard work including the certificate for “Most Dependable and Employee of the Month. “ On average, Keith and his team sell about 30-50 cars a month.

Keith keeps a positive profile when working with his customers. He usually keeps them smiling and laughing. Of course, each customer requires a different skill set. Keith recalls one customer who was very demanding and challenging to please. No problem! Keith patiently worked with him. “He was undecided on which car he wanted so I picked out one for him. We gave it a test drive and to my surprise, he loved it! He walked away a happy customer.”

Keith enjoys working at Showcase Imports and he also gives back to the community. He donates his time and money to different charities and gives motivational speeches to youth groups. Keith gives this advice to anyone looking for success in life: “Do a little research on what you want to do and focus on where it can put you in the long run. Stay humble and motivated.”

757-244-4756 757-725-1892

www.showcaseimports.com 5820 Jefferson Ave. Newport News,Va. 56 www.757pages.net

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In today’s economy, thousands of American workers are finding it increasingly hard to not only find a job but to feel secure and confident in the longevity of their position. While many are accepting lower paying positions just to put food on the tables at night, one individual decided to take matters into his own hands and venture into the world of entrepreneurship.

Bryan “Biggz� Haden, a 21 year old resident of Baltimore, Maryland, relocated to Norfolk, VA, and had the brilliant idea to become his own employer. Three years ago, with the help of

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his partners, Fresh and Heiron, Biggz was able to become a CEO of his own business, Major Movement Entertainment. By collaborating together, the three men decided they would be able to reach a broader scale of an audience, if they worked together as a unit that specialized in breaking barriers in Hampton Roads with the creation of new music and film.

Although it is considered to be an independent music label, Major Movement Ent., steps outside the norm by recruiting artists who specialize in not only hip hop, but other genres of music such as gospel and Neo Soul. With 14 artists signed to the label, Biggz and his crew

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have managed to step off the sidelines with the dreamers and idealists, and into the fast lanes of the money makers of the music game. As their label continues to expand, they manage to keep their ear to the streets of 757 for the next new sound that is born.

Kane the next sensation in the streets, Biggz has focused his promotions on selling his new talent. With the premier of his music on I Tunes as well as the company’s website, Kane is sure to reach hip hop enthusiasts even outside of the Hampton Roads area.

Biggz has also managed to snatch up a new artist whose creative sound has been compared to the likes of famous rappers such as Fabulous.

Kane, a hip hop artist, with Major Movement, has his feature album scheduled to drop in the streets on November 3rd. “He is a punch line rapper”, says Biggz of Kane, “He has punch lines to make music”. With the goal of making

Currently Major Music Ent. artists have been featured at Af’ram Festival in Norfolk, VA, opened for recording artist O.J da Juiceman, and performed at Club Crucial, recording artist T.I’s night club in Atlanta, GA. The music label has already sold over 5,000 mix tape copies in Hampton Roads and promoted music on local radio stations Hot 91.1, 103 Jamz, and 88.1.

Major Movement Ent., has not only set its present goals toward music, it has mapped out the future of its dreams and aspirations for the growth of the company. Next in the works for this budding business is making their mark on the film industry. Biggz has already put together the plans to promote their first documentary, focusing on the birth and growth of his baby, to show audiences how the dream became an instant reality. “We’re known for being unified, Biggz states, “We come deep like a family”, and just like any other family, this unit is sure to continue to prosper and grow over the years to come.

For more information about Major Movement Entertainment log onto their blog site www.majormovement.ent.blogspot.com or go to www.datpiff.com to listen to some of the labels’ hottest artists. To learn more about when Kane and other Major Movement Ent., artists will be performing in the cities of 757, check out the company page on Myspace at www.myspace.com/ biggzbeatzz.

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A young girl emerged from the streets of Chicago, Illinois, with a passion and a dream to reach the hearts of millions through acting and music. By age of 9, Drew Sidora had already begun her career as an actress with the debut of her first television movie, Divas, starring Khalil Kain, Lisa Nicole Carson, and Nicole Ari Parker.

She is well known for her roles on Disney’s That’s So Raven, the summer dance movie, Step Up, and her role as a fictional version of herself on the CW’s hit show, The Game. Now at the age of 24, Drew has taken on a new venture in life by re-inventing herself into a musician.

Signed to Slip N Slide records in 2008, she has teamed up with some of the hottest producers in the game to promote her first solo album.

Natasha: So let me get this right, you sing, dance, and act. Some might consider you to be a triple threat. Is there anything that Drew Sidora can’t do?

Drew: (laughing) Well I probably can’t mountain climb or something like that! I stick to the entertainment stuff and I think that is my range. Anything to do with entertainment is my passion and I feel like I can accomplish. I look at myself as a true serious entertainer filled around entertainers and I think that has God has blessed me with that gift.

Natasha: So what’s going on with your music right now? I’ve heard your

single “Not Alone” and definitely have to say it’s a hot track…so what’s next?

Drew: I appreciate that. Right now we have a single that’s actually dropping the radio.

It’s called “Turn It Up”. It’s a record produced

by Lamb, who did Jazmine Sullivan’s “Need U Bad” and he did Keyshia Cole’s “Let It Go” featuring Missy Elliott. He’s Missy Elliott’s production partner so he’s really creative and super phenomenal. I also got to work with Harold Lilly who wrote Beyonce’s “Ego”. My coming out record is a pretty huge record that I think is going to establish me, and is really going to let people know what I’m about, who I am as a person, and what I’ve been through. I’ve been in love and got my heart broken and that’s really why I want my music to allow my fans to get a chance to get to know me.

Natasha: So when does the single drop?

Drew: I’m really excited about that, it goes to radio at the end of the month. 70 percent of the album is already done so I’m really looking forward to dropping the album next year and the release of the official big single and then going on tour.

Natasha: I know we can all definitely relate with you about being in love and relationships. Now it has been rumored that the single “Not Alone” is actually about a celebrity you were once involved with. What would you say to that?

Drew: Yeah, I wouldn’t count it a diss record or anything like that. I wasn’t talking about him in any kind of negative way or being disrespectful. It basically was me empowering voice and letting people know this is me expressing myself and I don’t deserve to be disrespected. Luckily I can use music as an outlet to get my voice heard; a lot of women don’t have that opportunity. That was a chance for me to be a sexy lady and at the end of the day you’re not alone.

Natasha: That’s right!

What’s the name of the album dropping next year?

Drew: It’s going to be self entitled, Drew, be-

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cause it’s about me so I definitely want people to get it and say it knocked me off my feet.

Natasha: Is there any release date set up for the album?

Drew: The album will be released probably in the summer of next year. I don’t want to rush it out but give people the chance to feel it.

Based on the feeling of the singles put out that people love and push to number 1 that’s the direction of the album.

Natasha: You’ve had a chance to work with some big name artists in the industry like Rick Ross, Trina, and you even added Trey Songz on one of your songs. Is there anyone in the business that you are dying to work with for the next album or even another song?

Drew: Oh man… I’m looking forward to working with Alicia Keys, because I’ve been classically trained in piano since the age of 3. I was fortunate to sit down and write with her and I definitely am looking forward to working with Missy Elliott and Rodney Jerkins who’s a really good friend of

mine and a mentor.

Natasha: Do you write your own music?

Drew: I do. I actually wrote a song with Neyo and I write with my producer Lamb. I write a lot of music and a lot of the records that were on the Step Up soundtrack and the Step Up 2 soundtrack.

Natasha: Now you know I’ve gotta talk about your roles in television as well as movies. One of your most popular roles that people know you from is your role on the CW’s hit show, The Game and one of my personal favorite shows. How was it for you playing a woman involved in a love triangle with your cast mate Pooch Hall who played Derwin Davis?

Drew: I mean I first have to say just being able to come on a show like The Game and play myself was a blessing because you

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never get that opportunity unless you’re a superstar. So to be able to brand my name and get myself out there and let people know I’m a singer and actress that was a huge opportunity for me. I got the chance to work with Mara Brock Akil and really develop my character and make her as relatable as possible and that’s the reason why people love The Game so much. It was so real and people could relate to it so much you know? For people who people who loved my character or who hated my character I always say that we as women at some point we were lied to by a man. Whether we were the ones he was cheating on or we were the ones he was lying to and saying he didn’t have a girlfriend, we developed an emotional relationship and feelings and we get caught up. I feel like everyone can know what it feels like to be in that situation. I think that’s what gave my character, Drew Sidora so much attention.

Natasha: You’ve been acting since the age of 9 but a lot of people out there probably didn’t even know that. Is there any role in film that you haven’t played that you would like to take on?

Natasha: Is the show coming back? It’s been said that it was cancelled by the CW network but BET was trying to buy the rights to the show themselves.

Drew: Aaliyah was always my inspiration, just because she was the best that did it and I looked up to her as a young girl especially since she was able to balance both her film and music career and be so successful at it. I’ve always looked up to the people who helped develop her like Missy Elliott and Timbaland, and Rodney Jerkins. I look forward to working with them, if not on this album then hopefully on the next album.

Drew: Yeah, the show is definitely coming back to BET. It got picked up for two more seasons and it’s going to be great to get a lot of unresolved situations finally resolved, especially with myself and Melanie (Tia Mowry) and Derwin (Pooch Hall).

Natasha: So you will be coming back on The Game?

Drew: Well, we’re working on that right now but hopefully if everything goes right I will be coming back to the show.

Natasha: Is there any television show out right now that you wish you could get involved with?

Drew: I mean right now I’m just focusing on my music but I do have a movie coming out Kelly Hugh, from X-Men 2, called Farmhouse and it’s a horror film that’s dropping next month. I’m getting ready to start on my next film called Forbidden, which is about a singing group, sort of like The Pussycat Dolls, but I’m the lead singer of the group. It goes into the struggles of the music industry and focuses on the issues that women have to deal with. So I’m looking forward to that and just working in the studio and putting 100 percent into my music; whatever I do it has to be 100 percent.

Drew: Oh my gosh…I really look forward to being to do a period piece. I would love to do a piece where you go back to an era where so much that we experience today was influenced by the past and start at the beginning. I want to work on something from the 30’s, 40’s and even the Civil Rights Era, things when they were fighting for our rights and show how we are able to have the things that we have now. I really want to be play roles like that and be able to grow as an actress. A lot of actors don’t get that opportunity.

Natasha: Who would you say is an inspiration to you right now in the entertainment business?

Natasha: Is your music more of a pop album?

What is the feel that people can get from you?

Drew: Oh yeah….the album is R&B with a mix of pop in it. It’s very diverse and a cross over. There’s a lot of dance records on it. It’s really going to empower women. If you want to feel sexy, there’s a song on there for that, if you want to go out with your girls and dance and have a great time, there’s records for that too. I got the records if you’re going through something and you need to get through it you can listen those. It’s really going to be a well rounded album. At the end of the day it’s a way for you to stand up as a woman and feel respected.

Check out Drew Sidora’s current single “Not Alone” at www.myspace.com/drewsidora and view more information about her film projects. Also you can download music from the singer at I TUNES music store.

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The Queen of VA reigns under the realms of adversity while still wearing the crown for the last twenty plus years. Pat Richardson also often referred to as “SHE BOSS” is more than a diamond in the rough; she is the business fortress with owning and operating various night clubs in the 757. This Queen of VA is also responsible for promoting some of the top paid R&B, Reggae, Jazz and Hip Hop Artists in the industry. For many years, Pat Richardson has managed Grammy Award Reggae Artist “Lady Saw”.

Among other various business ventures, Pat Richardson received proclamation presented by the city of Norfolk’s Mayor for her excellent service to youth in the community. To know the “Queen of VA” Ms. Richardson is a humble spirited woman that will extend a helping hand to any one in need. Her passion is strong with impacting the lives of our troubled youth impractically. When asked about her motto in life, in reply she says its simple “She just treats people the way that she wants to be treated. Recently, Pat has started her non profit organization entitled “W.O.W” (Women Organizing Wealth) a female based organization designed to encourage woman in the struggle for success and being a good role model. Pat is at the top of her entertainment game “Dominating” over her competition in the game what society deems traditionally as a male successor industry.

In the game of Club Night life, this Fashion Icon, CEO Executive, Industry Mogul, Performing Artist, Fashion Runway model, Stage Actress, Music Promoter is more than a “DIVA” on the chess board of “Life”. Pat Richardson is the “Queen” that rules and exalts all her counterparts.

At the end of the game, it is known that both the “King and Pawn” is housed in the same box; however, this Queen of VA stands tall silent watching and pondering her next power move. This Queen is in CHECK.

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Continued from page 16 He is also scheduled to perform alongside Rickey Smiley and CoCo Brown for the Rickey Smiley show in December at the Hampton Coliseum.

This funnyman of comedy has not only managed to promote his act in Virginia, he has been featured on the “Funny as Hell Comedy” tour sponsored by the BET show Hell Date as well as performed with celebrity comedian Nephew Tommy from the Steve Harvey Morning Show. He has traveled to other cities all along the east coast such as Washington D.C, New York City, Charlotte, and Philadelphia. Some of the clubs that he has been featured in are New York’s The HaHa and the Broadway, Washington D.C’s Improv, and the Laugh Out Loud Comedy club located in both Charlotte and Philadelphia. His business savvy skills have helped pave the way for a long and successful career in entertainment.

Montee Rogers, the class clown from Charlotte, N.C, is a local celebrity here in Hampton Roads with the heart and drive to smash the entertainment industry wide open with his wit and charm. In just a short amount of time in his career, he attached himself to some of the veterans in comedy who could not only show him the ropes but help guide him on the path to success. To find more information about where Montee Rogers will be performing in the 757 area, check out his Myspace page at www.myspace.com/comedianmonteerogers and you can also follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/mon0tee/ status/1267145179.

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(ARA) - When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, many of her most important questions can’t be answered by a doctor. What if my insurance won’t cover a new treatment? Do I risk losing my benefits if I am not working full time? Will my boss let me take time off for treatment?

carefully.

The American Bar Association’s Breast Cancer Legal Advocacy Workshop Toolkit offers advice and aid for lawyers wishing to help patients and provides a blueprint for attorneys to use for developing training programs to educate other advocates. Here is a sample of the advice the toolkit offers anyone facing breast cancer:

4. Consult with an expert who is knowledgeable about health insurance law.

Ten steps to protecting the legal rights of breast cancer patients: 1. Read your health insurance policy

2. Determine if the treatment prescribed by your physician is covered by your policy.

3. Find out about the appeals process under your insurance policy.

5. Plead your case in person to your insurance carrier.

6. Personalize your written case with your insurance company.

7. Obtain copies of your medical records.

8. Document everything.

9. Ask your physician to advocate for your treatment.

10. Be prepared to fight.

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Look for the singsles: Going Down” and “Electric Valley” myspace.com/michaelwalla universalb2b.com

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With so many artists in the 757 trying to fatten their pockets with more a little more guap, it can be hard for some cats to keep their music and name in the mouths of locals. Sic Mic, an underground artist with a strong admiration for hip hop music has been grinding out his work for the past thirteen years. While some may already be a fan of his music, there are still quite a few people who are new to his talent. His most current mix tape The Live Seed, is already circulating the streets after its release on October 14th.

So what makes Sic Mic stand out from all the other hip hop artists in Hampton Roads? “I’m original in this”, states Mic”, “If you go into any neighborhood, any block, and you ask them about Sic Mic……matter fact don’t even say my name, just think of the top three local artists and I guarantee I’m one of them”. Because mix tapes make it easy for artists to obtain a large fan base, most entertainers choose to take this avenue first before trying to get signed to a main stream record label. Sic Mic has already reached that goal and is now working on his Tone Bone next venture to get his music heard by main stream listeners by signing to a record label. With the sale of his music continuing to generate more money for him along with his performances in the local area, it won’t be long before this cat takes over radio, internet, and television.

Sic Mic’s next performance will be on October 24th for the XXL mix tape release party with Hustlemania 4 in Virginia Beach. To learn more about Sic Mic and hear his music, check out his Myspace page www.myspace.com/sicmic757 as well as his You Tube music videos at www.youtube.com and type in Sic Mic. While Sic Mic may a solo artist busy keeping people informed of whom he is and what his music is about, he also comes from a family of talent.

His brother Tone is also an underground hip hop artist who has been putting out mix tapes all over Hampton Roads. These two brothers from Newport News, not only work on their solo projects, they also collaborate together on several tracks and have performed in clubs in the local area. They continuously promote their work as individuals all day every day while spreading the brotherly love for one another by promoting each other.

Sic Mic

Almost fifteen years ago, this man started his career with a dream to one day make it big in entertainment and travel all over the world.

Now at the age of 32, he is ready to change the game completely with his original sound and flavor. As an artist who has been cultivating his craft for more than a decade, Tone keeps himself grounded in the streets every day. “What makes me the best at what I do is that I keep it real”, says Tone, “I’ve got an original flow. I talk about real life situations in my music. My life is featured in my music and that’s what people hear”. For his album Mr. Sidney, Tone told the story about how he grew up and his personal experiences in life. He painted a picture of his life for the audience to see through his music. While his last project took on a more a deeper connection with his fans, his current work One For tha Money has taken a more light hearted approach and focused more on getting fans hyped about hustling for more scratch. The mix tape One For tha Money hits the streets on November 20th. To hear his music log on to his Myspace page www.myspace.com/tonebone or check out his latest music video Pump It In Yo Trunk at www.youtube. com and type in Tone Bone

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(ARA) - Busy schedules and holiday activities can keep you on the run, making it hard to eat healthy at this time of year.

You can stay on schedule and on track with healthful eating habits. * Eat a healthy breakfast every morning to get your day started off right. Toast with fruit jams, yogurt, oatmeal, a vegetable omelet or whole grain cereal all are fantastic healthy options to get your day started on a good note. * Keep a variety of healthy snacks on hand that aren’t too large in portion but are easy to grab throughout the day. Try crackers that are made with real, but

simple ingredients, such as Back to Nature’s Seed and Herb Crackers.

Available in three flavors - Poppy Thyme, Sesame Tarragon and Sunflower Basil - these crackers contain no artificial preservatives, no artificial flavors or colors and contain no cholesterol or trans fat. * Serve healthy snacks that not only look good, but taste good too at parties. Try Back to Nature Granola Cookies in Cranberry Pecan and Honey Nut that are sweetened naturally with cane juice, fruit juice and honey. If you’re looking for something sweeter, opt for Back to Nature’s Chocolate Chunk cookies that contain Rainforest Alliance-certified chocolate.

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Some of Keenah’s signature styles recently won several awards at the 2009 Hair Show in Virginia. One of her styles is currently featured in the “Xtreme” Hair magazine that can be found in most beauty and hair product stores.

Keenah is originally from Boston Massachusetts and spent many years on the west coast. She brings the latest braiding fashions from the east and west coast to Virginia.

Keenah is a Master Braider who can analyze customers’ hair and features to suggest hair styles. One of the most important things about having beautiful braids is having healthy hair . Sure many braid salons will braid your hair but won’t tell you how to care for it but Keenah constantly promotes healthy hair.

With every client Keenah will give a one on one consultation helping you find that perfect style for you. She will also give you her secrets on how to keep your style looking new and fresh.

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Keenah realizes that God is the driving force behind her success and knows all her blessing comes from him. Keenah always says “In this stressful world we live in I give back to my community by making people feel and look beautiful.

That is the least I can do!”

Keenah’s salon prices are more than reasonable; She is fair person, that realizes everyone has different situations and circumstances. Keenah always put people first.

Check out her new studio which is conveniently located at 3500 Virginia Beach Blvd Suite 300 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452. (Between Starbucks and the Social Service building) please call for an appointment (757) 513-4071

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Coming Soon

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Coming Soon

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Live Wire Empire

Eat Healthy

Major Movement Montee Rogers

Ambience Family

Hair Salon

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