Cover Feature Nick Roberson
Technology Reviews Entertainment Politics & The Economy Community Organizations Public Relations
February 2013
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Pg. 4 Editors Notes Pg. 5 - 11 Technology Reviews Pgs. 12 - 15 Meet Ms. Nick Roberson A Master of Beauty and Business -By Garland L. McLaughlin
Pgs. 16 – 17 The Financial Expert Mr. Carlton Lennon - By Garland L. McLaughlin
Pgs. 18 - 19 Advertisements Pgs. 20 - 31 Entertainment Reviews
Pgs. 32 - 33 JAVA TALK By L. Simone Hart Pg. 36 - 38 Summer Baby - By Yasmine Jameson Pgs. 39 – 43 Advertisements
Garland L. McLaughlin Editor of The Digital Conglomerate Magazine Inc. In this February 2013 issue of the Digital Conglomerate Magazine Inc the publication pays special tributes to ladies, their creative ventures, and their beauty. Seeing that February is typically thought of as a month that is geared to cater to women it is only fitting that the Digital Conglomerate Magazine Inc follow in the footsteps of tradition. The cover feature for this month, Ms. Nick Roberson, is a talented beautician with a keen instinct for business as well as beauty. Her passion for helping uplift others through her own cosmetology business and mortgage consulting national project management position are rays of light which cannot be overlooked. In this month’s JAVA TALK our publication President Ms. L. Simone Hart explores the creative world of the coffee shop and technology talk. A creative piece by author and blogger Ms. Yasmine Jameson also helps us take a look at the joy of bringing a new born life into the world. Kimberly Johnson is another lady which is also acknowledged within this February 2013 issue. Kimberly is a model who goes by the name of KDot Classy. She is looking to help inspire and further develop the market for plus size women everywhere. Also included within this issue are a variety of advertisements that have been assembled to help businesses across the country drive business to their respectable businesses and online storefront locations.
Our other featured guests include Mr. Carlton Lennon; he is a financial expert hailing from Beverly Hills, California. In the entertainment section there is also a review for the rising star Norwood, he is looking to take pop music to the next level. Looking at the hip hop scene we also had a chance to review the Boston, MA rap duo 7L and Esoteric. The technology review section provides write ups on 2 local San Antonio, TX companies which were reviewed along with 1 technology organization which is based in the state of Oregon. These reviews touch on the expertise and innovations of organizations which are helping to push the economy and knowledge base forward in the digital age.
ŠThe Digital Conglomerate Magazine Inc.
By “The Consultingguy” G.L. McLaughlin
www.meitechinc.com
Edelmiro (Ed) Mu単iz founded Mu単iz Engineering, Inc. (now known as MEI Technologies) in 1992 to provide engineering and technical service contracting work to government entities and private sector businesses. With one full-time and one part-time employee at his side, he helped the company stand out from competition by focusing on high-quality, bestvalue, ethically based support. After a few months, MEI Technologies landed its first client, SRS Technologies, to provide specialized engineering support for the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization. The SRS purchase order, along with a consulting subcontract from Eagle Aerospace, Inc. to support proposal preparation, led to modest revenue in MEI Technologies' inaugural year. In late 1992, MEI Technologies teamed with other companies to pitch for business. In 1993, the company served as a subcontractor to Eagle Aerospace, Inc. team, which was selected by NASA to support the Program Office Support Services Effort contract. Later that year, the U.S. Air Force named MEI Technologies as prime contractor on the Shuttle Payload Support Contract.
Chief Executive Officer
We provide innovative solutions for public and private sector customers in these areas: Engineering Services Cyber Services & Solutions Space Access Test and Evaluation Human Performance The Design Center
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From a technology engineering standpoint the group of engineers which help run MEI Technologies has it all down to a perfect science. It is very difficult to explain the exact methodologies which are used in order to create solutions for agencies such as NASA, but it is very interesting to hear about what this company can do. Innovation is the key factor that helps drive the human race to new levels of understanding how technology works and how it can be put together properly. Getting down to the physics of creating these components takes a keen understanding of how to use these components with a specifically designed application.
This all sounds a bit over the head of the average onlooker which is pretty much only fascinated by the fact that MEI Technologies makes tools and devices that are used on the space shuttle. For me this is enough, and if I wanted to try and over perfect a methodology that MEI has mastered I may as well be prepared to spend the next ten years at Texas Tech or MIT in order to conceptually grasp what it would be that I am producing. Fortunately neither I nor the world has that much time to wait and see if I can hack the various tasks of operation which are required to run a fully operational facility like MEI. Come to think of it if I single handedly wanted to produce some of these devices and win some favorable contracts from governments and agencies around the world I would have to know a lot more than
just product and solutions design. Being a company in technology which is driven by the best of their employees and recruit the best to manage their operations‌ surely speaks volumes in my book. Industry track records and exceeding productivity benchmarks help define the effectiveness and importance which MEI has acquired within the industry of technology. Carving out lucrative opportunities and displaying leadership qualities are primary examples of how this technology specialty firm continues Merging Excellence and Innovation.
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www.shematechs.com
Protecting business assets and keeping an eye out for intruders has to happen externally as well as internally. Shema Techs Surveillance brings new age monitoring technology right to within view. Technology has a habit of progressing through communication devices and other gadgets that are handy for folks that are on the go.
This San Antonio, TX team of technology surveillance professionals are experts on consulting about which tech devices are needed in order to keep a business or home from being burglarized. Getting into your home safely without having to worry about being mugged or taken hostage rarely comes to mind for the average person in most cases, but crime statistics show this really isn’t the case. More and more people out in the world today have a need to know that they are safe and can rely on cameras and other surveillance gadgets to deter crime and criminal activity. This is very important to
business owners that have a livelihood which depends on keeping their business investments safe. Finding out that something is missing later on in the game rather than sooner can be a costly mistake. Having the proper equipment allows Shema Technology Surveillance customers to view their belongings via digital video recording or live from their desktop, but the desktop surveillance method is really old school. It is more practical these days for customers to download a specialty feature right to the telecommunication devices and get to the bottom of things with a live investigation.
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Servicing The Surveillance Installation Process!
Burglary is not the only concern that business owners and home owners have to worry about. Surveillance devices and equipment also take charge and keep track of locating valuable inventory or possessions. Being able to see inventory or knowing a family is safe and secure is also a reassuring feeling people get when they have a surveillance devices installed and readily assessable. The installation process is the first step. Equipment provided by the professionals of this boutique security surveillance firm Shema Tech Surveillance covers all of the angles, wall to wall, ceiling to ceiling, or floor to floor. Getting the proper view of any external location is equally important. Even if surveillance methods are used for marketing tactics, such as keeping track of foot traffic, various types of surveillance equipment when place properly can give a business an edge. It is always a comforting feeling for business owners to know that they can use their devices to boost their overall business revenue. Pg. 9
www.techoregon.org Organizations which use technology to stimulate and initiate productive education programs and resources certainly have their advantages. This organization has been formed through the cooperation of local businesses which have the resources to donate time as well as technology. Finding large companies in the technology industry to come together on an initiative in Oregon is becoming more and more common. This tight knit community of technology professional specialist firms and companies help the state of Oregon produce various programs which educate young kids as well as push green initiatives. The cost of energy is and has been a main concern of the public, spanning back all the way to three decades ago. In the past it was quite hard to spread conservation strategy ideas to local, national, and global audiences. Now the Technology Association of Oregon is proving that they can amass a large knowledge base and strategically obtain cooperation between businesses to push huge publically popular projects. It is only right that technology have the ability to govern itself and what better way to do it than to create an innovative tool or movement that really benefits the social
Sure, it’s not for certain that the next few ideas demonstrate that a solution can be duplicated in real time on a printable device will come specifically from this organization. From what can be seen of the matter this organization will be in the front running for demonstrating the effectiveness of multiple programs using a non profit strategy. The Technology Association of Oregon is not the first organization to be able to streamline together corporate cooperation under a non profit flag. There are plenty of these type of organizations across the globe. Pg. 10
Short List of Corporate Members and Participants:
Access Technologies Accumulus Corporation Act-On Software ADP Dealer Services, Inc. Adobe Systems AKT LLP Alleman Hall McCoy Russell & Tuttle LLP American Marketing Association American Red Cross App Industries LLC Biamp Systems BITINC Systems LLC Blount International Boldtrek, Inc. Brian R. Carroll & Associates Burnside Capital Management Business Education Compact CafeGive Cambia Health Solutions Cascade Web Development Cayuse Technologies Crowd Compass CSD Nano, Inc. CTL Data Resource Group Datalink Corporation Davis Wright Tremaine LLP Demand Solutions Group DevGroupNW Digital Trends Duma Video, Inc. Earth Advantage Institute EarthTechling LLC EdCaliber Google - The Dalles Data Center GoSeeTell Network Greenbrier Companies GTS Services HealthSaaS, Inc. Heminder Singh Consulting IBM IEM Solutions
From a national perspective it seems that this organization is on the top tier of example makers which are making a difference without the red tape of government intervention. By being able to govern themselves, this group and technology think tank has practically every technology business which does business in Oregon wanting to be involved. Outsiders such as I have also taken notice. From time to time we can all see in one state or another similar organizations form on a lesser scale, hoping to capture a large audience of technology businesses. This leaves quite a bit of room for disjointed structure and stalled projects. Having a few or a couple dozen organizations on the same page with initiatives is not really a comparison to what the Technology Association of Oregon has managed to accomplish. Pg. 11
This month’s cover feature Ms. Nick Roberson paints her techniques as a master cosmetologist and National Project Manager for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America. Her unique style combines new and newer, there is nothing really old school about this lady. Finding out more about her background makes this feature just a little bit more special and interesting. “The first thing that comes to mind when I reflect on how I began my cosmetology and eyelash career is my grandmother, Rosa LaFavor, a retired beautician. My grandmother who is now 92 years old, styled many prominent (school teachers, nurses, business owners, etc.) African American ladies living in the Augusta, Georgia community. I was influenced and encouraged by many of these women. I was also motivated by my grandmother’s love of people, her classic style and how she carried herself as a lady. As a young girl, I wanted to be exactly like my grandmother and thus, over 20 years ago, I began my cosmetology career. Initially, I started styling my high school classmates hair and later when I took time off from my studies at Paine College, I enrolled full time at Augusta Technical Institute where I earned my cosmetology diploma and later my cosmetology license via the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology in 1995. Through the years as I perfected my skills, I was eager to learn other cosmetology services. Thus, began my eyelash career of 10 years and my custom hand painted Styrofoam wig/accessory mannequins of two years.” Pg. 12
It was very interesting to see that Ms. Roberson offers one of her services which can design customized Styrofoam Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority mannequins. This got me thinking a little bit, is Ms. Roberson an Alpha Kappa Alpha? “No, I am not a sorority sister of Alpha Kappa Alpha because I never took the time or interest to pledge while I was in college. However, one of my favorite aunts, Blanche LaFavor, is an AKA, as well as, my Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of American (NACA) supervisor, Detria Austin Russell, who is NACA’s chief operating officer. Both of these two phenomenal women inspire me and if I ever get a chance and the time to pledge, it would definitely be AKA!” Nope that was not a quick promotional plug in, but Ms. Roberson’s definitely has some AKA diva swag. At anytime Ms. Roberson could be sworn in as an honorary sister. Certainly, Ms. Roberson delivers her business to the public by addressing the needs of today with practical solutions. “My services stand out among the crowd for several reasons. For one, my salon services are mobile which allows me the opportunity to travel to accommodate my client’s needs. Most of my clients are busy working mothers that appreciate that they do not have to drive to me for services and they can get professional services in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, businesses or other venues that they choose. Second, my website www.nickroberson.com allows clients to schedule their appointments online as well as, make payments online. I am also accommodating with my days and times of service and I offer a 1 week guarantee on my eyelash services which means that if my clients lose a lash within one week of service, I will go to their location of choice and replace their lost lashes free of charge and with no questions asked. This guarantee is important to me because it shows my clients that I value them and that they are not just money to me but also people whom I care about. Additionally, I have several clients who suffer from cancer and because of radiation and other medical
treatments, they have lost their eyelashes and eyebrows. These clients are my most inspirational and I provide them special services by giving them discounted eyelash and 100% human hair eyebrow services. Finally, my eyelash services stand out from most because I am licensed and have the proper training and knowledge for eyelash applications. I perform eyelash applications because I love the beauty and fashion industry. I don’t do it just for the money and I know that my work represents me. Many of the eyelash applications that I see, are done by people who are not properly trained to apply eyelashes and who do not hold proper licensure. Some of my clients have come to me with missing eyelashes from previous improper eyelash applications and some have gone to the emergency room because untrained or uncaring eyelash technicians used questionable chemicals on them to apply their eyelashes. All of my materials and products are 100% professional grade and are for the sole use of eyelash applications. Prior to applying eyelashes, I do a thorough evaluation of my clients to ensure that they are not allergic to certain chemicals and materials such as latex. I stand out because I bring professionalism and personalization to my clients who are people, and to me that is important!” With Ms. Roberson’s level of expertise it was hard not think of the many different ways to multi level market her services with an expanded marketplace. Next, I asked Ms. Roberson if she has been able to find ways to incorporate her services with NACA to reach out with your business and help people in community? Ms. Roberson answered, “Currently, I have not been able to incorporate my cosmetology services with my position as National Project Manager for NACA. However, this is something that I would like to do in the near future. NACA, also known as, Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America is the largest non-profit HUD Certified mortgage counseling agency in the United States. We have a staff of about 700 who are the hardest working people that I am fortunate to work with and know. NACA has several employee functions each year and I would like to incorporate some type of free or discounted beauty/relaxation services to offer them on a corporate level to show the company’s appreciation for them. I would also like to incorporate something similar exclusively for our NACA members.” Pg. 13
With the conversation moving along I was very interested in knowing what are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of the talents which Ms. Roberson provides? “The most rewarding part of being a cosmetologist is being able to interact and meet people from all walks of life. I have clients from various ethnicities and cultures, who work various positions for various jobs and companies. I love that they allow and trust me into their homes and families’ lives. Every single one of my clients have enriched my life in some aspect and I am grateful! Additionally, as an employee of NACA, I am able to assist my professional peers with purchasing homes using the, “Best Mortgage Product in America.” Many lenders don’t like interacting with many self-employed people because they find that selfemployed people oftentimes do not keep accurate records of their yearly business activities and may not file their taxes and other required documents correctly. Because of this, many of my beauty industry peers are unable or afraid to apply for mortgage loans which makes their dreams of home ownership unattainable. Thanks to NACA and our licensed mortgage consultants, we are able to assist beauty professionals with attaining their American Dream. I love this because not only am I a NACA employee, I am also a NACA member!” It was very reassuring to know that Ms. Roberson is also a key piece of the large task that is being done to help communities across the country. In every business just as in life, there are great times, good times, and just bad times. Ms. Roberson what have been some challenges in your career as a business woman? “My most challenging aspect is that I don’t feel that cosmetologists are given the respect that we deserve. Many people still call us hairdressers and think that all we do is chew gum and gossip! My professional peers have evolved through the years and we are still evolving! Many of us have business degrees and other professional degrees and licenses. We are a multifaceted multitalented group of individuals who still struggle to get proper respect when it comes to charging and getting paid for our services. Oftentimes clients (especially friends and family) will expect us to give them free or discounted services which isn’t fair to us because we have bills and this is our livelihood.” Which service or product is your best seller? “My individual cluster eyelashes are my best seller. I charge $50.00 for these lashes but offer holiday, special event, student, military and cancer patient and certain other medical patient discounts on these. These lashes are natural looking and last for up to 5 weeks depending on the person’s lifestyle, body chemistry and care of the lashes,” Ms. Roberson answered.
Finally the question I have been waiting to ask…Who are some of the highly notable clients that you have work for so far in your career as a master cosmetologist? “To be honest, I have worked with several notable clients, but I would rather not say because I don’t like using other people’s popularity or celebrity status to boost my credentials or career. I am an average person who always hopes to do big things with other average people! I have been blessed beyond measure to work with and for several industry leaders in beauty, television, radio and print. I could not have done any of this without God, my family, friends and the ordinary people who I have come across in my life.
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And as I truly ponder on it, my most notable client is my 19 year old daughter Necole Christian Roberson. Christian, as we fondly call her, aspires to become an actress. Since her conception, I have always dreamed of Christian becoming something and someone big in the professional business world by steering her clear of the creative and artistic mindset that I struggle to control within me. I envisioned Christian matriculating from a prestigious four-year college. However, as fate and God will have it, my child decided that college is not for her. January 2013, Christian took a leap of faith and moved to Baltimore to start taking free acting lessons at a local college. Christian is determined to follow her dreams, and with a handful of money, God and my blessings, she is actively trying to find and establish herself in the world. I have applied eyelashes on Christian and shaped her eyebrows since she was a tween and I know that one day, this loving and jovial creature will achieve her lifelong dream of becoming a famous actress or fashion stylist. So I can truly say that Christian is and always will be, my most notable and favorite client! I no longer look at my daughter’s decision as a foolish youthful fancy, instead Christian has reminded me that I was once young and had youthful dreams and desires. Those youthful dreams and desires are what inspired and helped me to become a Georgia licensed master cosmetologist, earn a business degree, become a Georgia Notary, become a news reporter, work for a program under the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, work at Paine College overseeing a youth program, procure valuable resources for military families in privatized housing at Fort Gordon, start writing my book and work as the National Project Manager for NACA. Everything that I am today and that I inspire to be, is because of my two children Christian and J.R. so by far, both of them are my two most notable celebrity clients!” If we were on camera Ms. Roberson would have to fix my make up after that last remark.
www.nroberson.com
The Financial Expert Mr. Carlton Lennon By Garland L. McLaughlin
Finance and the economy has always been of interest to me since I was a young tot in elementary school and it was quite amazing to interview an individual that has had similar experiences within his life. Mr. Carlton Lennon is an individual that has undertaken the task of becoming an expert in the world of finance. “I got inspired as an 8th grader conducting a project on the Stock Market! Pretty much knew from that point that the Investment Business would be what I pursued as a career.” Mr. Lennon is from Beverly Hills, CA and is a graduate of UCLA, he is no stranger to talking about the facts concerning finance and the impact that it has on our economy.
In recent months the political climate and economic outlook has been looking more and more dismal, due to a global meltdown of confidence in the financial system. People out in the world today are taking on the trend of consuming more and thinking less about the impact that this consumption may have on future generations. Mr. Lennon firmly believes that the “Nations economy is headed upward! The Debt & the Deficit is a serious problem! The Government will resolve a great deal of it though. Right now America is at tipping and turning point! I believe that we, as a country, have the fundamentals within our economy to raise enough revenue and deal with the over spending of congress! Debt will be reduced beginning in 2014 and the economy will be in Full Swing by 2015.”
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Yes the congressional spending problem does hit home right now and people are a little aggravated to know that congress annually requests an increased spending limit of 6%. When does it all end and when will the people of our nation have control over how our tax dollars are spent? This complex question cannot be answered simply, but it is a question that will always be lingering in the minds of Americans. The key for individuals taking control of their personal finances lies within the information that is available to them, so that they may make informed decisions. “There are only 5 tools that you can use to keep up with any economy! Information, Information, Information,
Information and more information! Information from the Wall Street Journal, Morning Star, Barrons, Yahoo Finance, CNBC and a plethora of other technical charts and financials from Standard and Poors!” Mr. Lennon is absolutely correct with his assessment of determining which tools are the right tools that should be used in order for individuals to make informed decisions of how they will manage their wealth and finances. Some financial consultants stick to their own scripts and only focus on certain aspects of their clients person finance. Mr. Lennon is quite well rounded and gives his clients a true and fair assessment of their overall financial health.
“As a "Comprehensive Cash Flow Time Sensitive Financial Advisor" I take TIME SENSITIVITY very serious! Therefore I focus on all three time frames involving a client! The short, intermediate and long term horizons are all equally important!” The career of Mr. Lennon is looking very bright as he continues on his crusade to spread knowledge of personal finance and financial management. “Within the next 3-5 years I expect to be in 5 markets throughout the United States! I expect my company to begin making serious inroads to acquiring market share of the industry! I expect to have a completed internet system that simplifies our Process for growing wealth!” Pg. 17
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Artist Review By Garland L. McLaughlin
Recently I came across a talented Atlanta, GA based singer that is giving pop music a new futuristic sound with his talents. His management agency gave me the opportunity to interview Norwood and get a chance to find out where this young artist is headed in the not so distant future. The excitement of his music is sure to make him an artist to watch closely in the coming months as he ramps up promotions for his singles and album. Norwood is no stranger to the spotlight and he knows how to hold an audiences attention. “A few years ago I opened for B.B. King, so that was incredible! It was a sold out amphitheater show just a few months after starting my professional singing career, so I was definitely hitting the ground running!” Norwood has cultivated his talents over the years and I all started early on in his life. Norwood stated, “I've always been singing, even from a young age - I would sing along with everything. When I was about 10 my mom signed me up for a music summer camp and by the end of the week I was hooked to music and performing!”
Continued On Page 24…
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There is definitely something daring and very impressive about the sounds that Norwood creates with his music. “I love Pop music and innovation - I want my music to push boundaries and leave people feeling like they've just listened to something special and exciting. So my sound stems from that,” Norwood stated. With all of the sound that surrounds and embodies the songs that Norwood composes I was wondering how long does it take him to create such splendid masterpieces? Norwood answered, “I've been lucky to collaborate and co-write with some phenomenally talented producers and songwriters, so usually it's a fairly quick process. My last 3 singles "Gravity, Speechless and Record Spinner" were cowritten/produced by a Grammy nominated team who also works with Justin Bieber, Katy Perry and Rihanna just to name a few.
It really depends on the song some songs just "come to you", and others take a little more time and effort to get them to be "just right".” Norwood considers his style to be an introduction to the next generation of pop music and after hearing his catchy tunes just a couple of times I would see why any other listener would feel any different. Catching this busy artist on tour is going to be a goal of mine for this year, so I asked Norwood when he tours what cities does he mainly go to? Norwood answered, “My shows have mainly been in the Southeast and Southern California areas for the last few years, but I'm looking forward to expanding to a World Tour in the near future! In particular, I'd love to tour the rest of the US, Europe and Asia. I enjoy traveling and seeing new places, so touring is very exciting for me.” Norwood plans on moving to Los Angles with his manager this year to continue to chase the dream. Pg. 24
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DJ 7L and Esoteric Review: By G. L. McLaughlin It all seems like it happened yesterday, the beginnings of this hip hop duo stretch back to the mid to late 90’s… I remember getting a page from George (7L) letting me know I should come through and experience a typical rap and party session with him and Seamus (Esoteric) in a town on the outskirts of Boston. Being a bit young in the game with limited ghostwriting experience I passed on the offer and chose to catch up with them when I could, either in the studio or by another invite. Time passed, the artists formally known and affiliated as The God Complex hit an underground stride that is rarely spoken about and recognized by the so called hip hop loyalists of today. Sure, this article and review is beginning to sound like a tale that enshrines legends, and making that assumption would be making the correct assumption.
250,000 independently produced record sales later 7L and Esoteric have the rights to claim Boston, MA as the 12th Chamber in a fable that is connected to the highly successful Wu Tang Clan saga. Who would have known that two white chocolate brothers from MA would rub shoulders with Ghostface, Inspectah Deck, GZA, and all those cats? Of course I knew that… sure I’ve known they have huge audiences overseas since around the time when the Wu Tang Clan dropped their double CD. Then every artist wanted to drop double CDs. The 7L and Esoteric saga was definitely on another field of vision, playing the same game using their own rules. Plenty of emcees act like they can really throw down on a classic refinished beat with an original twist, but no other group does it with an intellectually stimulating twist like 7L and Esoteric. While other artists where looking to blow quick advances and quickly be dropped from their labels 7L and Esoteric quickly use the late 90’s and early 2000’s as the testing stages for producing their own material.
Certainly they have the correct methodology down to a science. Leaving most of the laughing stock in the dust, there aren’t many mix tape artists that can claim they have sold over 250,000 records. Why would anyone want to spend there musical career rhyming off of some other artists instrumental material, and then having to sell the finished beat jacked material on the street as if it were their own material? Sure, artists in the hip hop game have limitations, but overcoming those limitations is what makes an artist good. Settling for less than staying true and investing in oneself to perfect the art form is the only method that works no matter what the set of rules are, 7L and Esoteric have proven that.
The key factor which enables this group’s success in the underground is accepting the fact that by going commercial they will loose their main audience. Also staying true to their style and city has played a part in their success as well, and plus who wants to pay back a label’s recoupment costs after selling the label’s album… why not just keep the million and change of profits for yourself? More than likely 7L and Eso can say they have done just that.
www.esoterichiphop.com Listening Session Suggestion:: 12th Chamber (Feat. Inspectah Deck) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnzArZe2gJA
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The February 2013 Digital Conglomerate Magazine Inc Grunge Luxury Model Kimberly Johnson also known as Kdot Classy is a plus size model from New York, NY with goals that she wants to achieve. She is looking to make an impact on the modeling industry in the near future and plans on creating a buzz that will give her size an advantage and appeal to most audiences. Ms. Johnson also aspires to eventually establish her own modeling agency that will fully support full figured models which are looking to break into the modeling industry. For Booking‌ Contact Kimberly Johnson Email kdotclassy77@gmail.com
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JAVA TALK By L. Simone Hart www.exquisiteexpressinc.com With the sense and essence of being in a place of ambiance and relaxation there are times when the way we feel in a certain space makes the experience enjoyable or not. Swirls of java in our minds, in our cups on our tongue, it is a romantic sensation of calm. Most of the talk around town is all about how the steam of pleasurable aromas lingers in the air of intoxicating zest and splendor. You can meet me at the local coffee house to enjoy our chats of yesterday and tomorrow to come. As Smooth Jazz enters the atmosphere as lovers cuddle in the corner, clicking email responses, surfing the web or holding each other close for a more enjoyable experience. Meanwhile zeros and ones stimulate the eyes with bright, crystal clear reflections of their functions.
Click, type, backspace Enter into a world of curiosity defined. With so much knowledge to be obtained at such a rapid rate there isn’t any time to waste. Most of us want to be in the know and we want to know now… what, where, how and when are answered at click of a finger tip. Information flowing through us like a river of exciting mini waves. Cool kids know just where to go, showing each other what’s “hip” and “now”. Pick a tune any tune from days of yesterday, the sound of the music transporting us back to a time of silly laughter, super fun moments and sorrow.
Remember when you could record a song from the radio using a blank cassette tape to listen to that one song over and over again, learning every word as if your life depended on it? Now it seems we are instantly gratified by the easy access of things we enjoy. Well isn’t a great coffee shop the same thing? We visit and revisit the perfect place, where there is always a friendly face welcoming us with warm greetings and open arms.
Taking us away from all the hustle and bustle the world projects onto us like a brick wall, sitting on the ground with the only layer between the two are a blanket and your favorite shorts on a summer day. The next time you’re in a java place, just close your eyes for a second, smell the aroma of life all around you, open your laptop, punch in the password and become one with this wonderful piece of heaven on earth. Strike up an interesting conversation with a complete stranger, smile and just be you. Java will always be there to propel us into a better tomorrow.
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Summer Baby By Yasmine Jameson I am waiting for the test results. It has been two months since I had my last period. Brian and I have been worried since the last scare we had which ended up in a miscarriage. Oh my God! The guy has been so great you know. I mean Brian could have left me so many times. So now we are engaged. We have been engaged for the last year. Our wedding is at the end of the summer. So I am sitting in the doctor’s office looking at all the other faces there. So many women and young girls in different stages of their lives and pregnancy. I have been going to this doctor since I was 15 years old. I went earlier than most because I had a problem after a car accident that was fatal for my father and very serious injuries for me and my mom. So I went because I wasn’t allowed to have my period for approximately two years after the accident. I had been in an out of surgery the whole time for my back and my legs/pelvis area. I had pins in my back and I had pins in my legs. So the last thing my doctor wanted was for me who had the worst cramps in the world to have my period. So he gave me medicine to stop it. And after I started having my period again it wasn’t regular. So when my period doesn’t come neither I nor my guy notices. But this time, I had a light period. So I said, okay we are not pregnant. Then I started experiencing symptoms. You know sore breasts, slight weight gain, hunger cravings, and the tell tale flutter of my body. The flutter always comes when I am pregnant. So then nothing the next month. And then nothing this month. So now we are or rather I am waiting at the doctor’s office and he is waiting by his cellular phone for my phone call.
“Jacinta, Jacinta James??” “Here.” “You may come in the office now.” I smiled at the lady next to me. And followed the nurse to the back office where the doctor waited. “HI Jacy how are you today?” “Fine Dr. Gerald. So what are the results?” “Well, you are healthy and pregnant.” “I closed my eyes and said that is what I thought.” “You want a minute?” “No Dr. Gerald I am ready.” “Come into the office I am going to do a quick ultra sound on your body for right now. I know it’s early but we need to check out some things here. I will give you a prescription for pre-natal vitamins and don’t forget to schedule your next appointment on your way out.” After the doctor was done and I scheduled my appointment I walked to my car and dialed Brian’s telephone number. When Brian answered, I said, “Well its official. We are pregnant. Hon? You there?” “I figured as much Jacy. So how are we doing?” “Well the doctor says I am healthy and have no worries. Just make it to the next appointment. Oh and I have to fill out my medications that he gave me.” Okay huh see you when you get home. “ Now I sit here waiting in the family room for Brian and I am so sleepy. I think I will just go to sleep until he gets here. Sometime later but in actuality only half n hour, Jacinta woke up. She looked around and didn’t see Brian. Instead she saw a beautiful bouquet of roses and a glass of milk with a note that said, so cute. So she got up and looked around the living room. By the table where the phone was lay the book she had started to read entitled, the Private Patient by P.D. James. Next to the book was a pair of isotoner booties and thrown over the chair was an afghan blanket; just like the one she was under by the flowers. The computer beeped with a Skype message from her Mom. She said,” I hope its good news and not another miscarriage.” So she left her mother a return message saying “Thank God no, Mother. No miscarriage. Actually the doctor confirmed the pregnancy and scheduled another appointment. Call me later on the landline, Mom. Luv you. Bye.”
As Jacinta waits for Brian to come back home in time for dinner, she starts looking through the mountain of work that waits for her. She has two jobs. One as a freelance writer for a magazineshe is their advice guru and another as a teacher’s aide for kindergarten classes. Her mind is always moving ten times ahead of her. She still after all these years can’t believe how she got this job. It was sheer luck on her part. She had started freelancing and slowly started making money. A website joined here, a website joined here, some networking here, some networking there, some phone calls here and some phone calls there and vwallah- she now was working as a freelancer. No she didn’t make much money- why she chose to be a teacher’s aide. She sat down in her favorite chair, covered her legs with her afghan blanket and took a sip of her herbal tea and placed in on the end table next to her chair. It was one of her most cherished places in this house that she shared. It was right by the window that was floor length. And on the other side of the chair, was her desk and lamp where she had her personal computer or Netbook whichever one she was using at the time and her printer/fax with a designated phone line and a separate phone line to make phone calls. But truth be told, she used her cellular phone all the time.
Her bag of mail normally had 500 plus letters over a month’s time. Her policy was if she picks your letter it’s about two weeks before you see it. The one that she wanted to actually showcase for this month’s column was about a woman in the same situation as she had been. Had a miscarriage; wanted to conceive again but not sure she could. It had caused her husband of ten years to walk out on her. Now, she was in the process of getting divorced and involved with another man who wanted a child. How did she tell him that she might not conceive- would he be okay with adoption? Out of her bag of tricks she would have to pull an answer. She yawned and she heard the key in the lock. She sighed in relief- Brian was home. Not that he was home early but she thought he would be a little longer. She stretched and went to greet her man. “Hey honey”, she smiled and gave him a hug. He hugged her back and took a step back to look at her. And Brian smiled to himself. “I can’t believe it baby. Another chance to have a baby. We have some things to discuss you know.” “I know Bry. But first, I made dinner, its keeping in the kitchen. I was resting in the chair looking at my mail for the column. So let’s eat and we can discuss it over Pg. 37 dinner.”
You could smell the dinner she had prepared throughout the house. Jacinta had made baked sweet potatoes, fried chicken, collard greens, baked macaroni and cheese and for dessert a cherry pie with the granola pie crust. His mouth just watered while he washed his hands for dinner. He had changed his clothes previously to washing his hands into something more comfortable. It was a policy of both him and Jacinta to not stay in their work clothes after they got home. The shoes came off at the door and you can see them in a shoe tree at the front. The keys dropped into a bowl at the front door on the table that also housed the mail and the lost personal items from guests. Brian pulled out a bottle of red wine and some glasses to go along with dinner. Although she couldn’t drink, he wouldn’t mind a glass. She was getting milk. “So, Jacy, remember what we had discussed the last time if you got pregnant again?” “Yes, Brian. I am to make all my appointments, listen and follow the doctor’s advice, let him and you know when there is a problem, and also to take the bed rest if ordered. And no guff.” “You know I will not do that and I didn’t last time. I shouldn’t have had the miscarriage but I think my body just couldn’t carry her. This time I want to know the sex, and I want to carry as much to full term as possible. And this time I want to be able to have my baby shower.” her voice starts to break. And Brian goes around the table to pull her into his arms. She starts to talk again, “And I want to see the baby get here alive.” “This time you will, we will.” Seven months have gone by. She has made it through the pregnancy not with flying colors but she is currently on bed rest not even able to do her writing column for the paper. But she has always had a capable assistance named Brandy. Brandy is actually a better writer than she but she would never tell her that because then she might be out of a job. She is taking over the column until she gets back. Although Jacinta didn’t tell her this, she has already spoken to the boss about him giving Brandy her own column after seeing her work here. She has been putting in columns underneath Jacinta’s name since her last miscarriage when Jacinta wasn’t able to work. It would get her in a lot of trouble but she is hoping her boss won’t fire her for that. The boss had agreed and this six month period will tell the tale for her. She has got to make it.
She calls his name, “Brian-Brian, hurry up. I just called the doctor. I am in labor. He said to go to the hospital.” She hears his scrabbling around. “I’m here” and he appears with her overnight bag, his overnight bag because he was staying at this brothers house near the hospital and both cellular phones and chargers. Her laptop has been banned from the hospital room and so has his. And he even got the doctor to not let anyone bring one in. Until the doctor says it’s okay because she has to stay in the hospital for one week after delivery unlike the normal two three day stay in the hospital. The doctor already told them that. “Let’s roll.” Two days later, Brian and Jacinta Summer welcomed a healthy baby girl into their family. They named her Layla Summer. She was a whopping 6 pounds 2 ounces, and a chubby cheeked crier. She was the greatest gift the two had gotten and the family portrait says it all. Pg. 38
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