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content. 05
Especially Empanadas!
08
In the Kitchen with Chris White
11
Feeling the ESSENCE of it All
15
Flying Solo (and why maybe you should too!)
19
Much Ado About Nothing at The Old Globe
23
Jonnae Thompson’s Journey to Better Eating and Better Living
27
Health Co-Parenting
31
ofo Bike Sharing Yeah you can borrow that bike!
34
12 Steps to Keep Burnout Out at Bay
37
Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray, Honorary Breast Cancer Survivor is in the Race for the Cure
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Making the Best Out of Small Outdoor Spaces
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Dean Hall - Fashion Spread
49
Juicy Couture Debuts New Fragrance Oui Juicy Couture
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Introducing the Airbnb of Parking: Park Connect
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Black & Missing: Searching for Our Missing People of Color
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Amid Rising Costs of Housing, Senator Kamala Harris Introduces Bill to Provide Rent Relief
EDITOR & CHIEF CHIDA REBECCA PUBLISHER REBECCA & CO.
CREATIVE DIRECTION & DESIGN JAINKARAN.COM
CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY BRANDON S. JOHNSON
DEAN HALL
LEAD MAKEUP ARTIST ASHLI TAYLOR
CONTRIBUTORS CHIDA REBECCA DEAN HALL JONNAE THOMPSON DR. CAROLLE JEAN-MURAT, MD BRANDON S. JOHNSON HIMBE KNOWIN
COVER HAIR STYLES BY RANAE
© 2018 BLACK & MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY REBECCA & CO. SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO : PUBLISHER@BLACKANDMAGAZINE.COM WWW.BLACKANDMAGAZINE.COM INSTAGRAM: @BLACKANDMAGAZINE TWITTER: @BLACKANDMAG FACEBOOK: @BLACKANDMAGAZINE
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER ISIAH JONES
publisher’s letter
It truly has been hotter than EVER! And while the heat is picking up outdoors, we’re doing our best to keep it cooking within the pages of Black & Magazine. Issue #4 is here to please and you never know what you’ll find inside the pages of this publication but I can assure you that there is something in here for everyone! Two features that are dear to me are located in the ‘Black & Informed’ section, where we’re discussing the new Bill Senator Harris wants passed regarding rent control, and following that article, feedback from locals on what they’re doing to be able to maintain living here. We are skillful people full of talent and genius. Let’s work together to fuel our Black communities and share ways on surviving and maintaining locally and nationally. Hopefully something in this issue will inspire and motivate you. We are officially in our 8th month of the year - August! Can you believe December is almost here? How’s the year been treating you thus far? Have you accomplished most of what you set out to do? It’s never too late to finish this year strong and to start preparing for 2019. It’ll be here before we know it. I’d like to encourage you to make the most of your time everyday. Keep lists, make notes, do something different you’ve never done, find a good book to read, take a different route home, and even visit a restaurant or store you’ve never been to. You never know where your next opportunity may be hiding. And if you’re taking time out to read Black & Magazine in its entirety, please shoot us a quick message on one of our social media outlets, letting us know what you thought about this issue, or any publication issue for that matter.
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in good health, even as your soul prospers.
CHIDA REBECCA PUBLISHER
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Especially Empanadas! by Contributing Writer Dean Hall
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ast week I swung by Empanada Kitchen and it was without a doubt the best decision of the week! I hadn’t tasted something new in a little while and since I’d never had an empanada I was super stoked on it. The selection is plenty, but not overwhelming and you also get a legend which shows you what they will look like. That’s especially handy if you’re anything like me and order half the menu, but have the memory of a gnat. Up first was the classic beef and to say it was delicious would be an understatement. The meat was well seasoned and the bread so soft and perfectly proportioned. I’m always skeptical about meat wrapped in breading because there’s usually inches of dough between you and the hearty center. The beef is great, but the lamb is life changing and my absolute favorite. I’m extremely particular about my lamb and it was like they prepared it just for me. Oh and I can’t forget about the sauce, I’m salivating as I write this, which is wonderfully complementary. Other great tasting options are the bacon & egg, mushroom and goat cheese, and sweet corn & basil. Ah and the sweet corn & basil was definitely another favorite. Juicy flavorful cream style corn encased in the most appetizing of bread. Empanada Kitchen has set the bar extremely high and carved out the perfect niche in the downtown food scene.
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CHRIS WHITE In the Kitchen with Chris White by Chida Rebecca
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Chris White is known in the Gospel music industry as a phenomenal vocalist and a force to be reckoned with. This singer and songwriter has appeared on various projects as a background and lead vocalist, leaving ears pleasantly fulfilled by his skillful rifts and range. Not only can White be found behind a microphone, but another favorite place of his is in the kitchen. “I’ve been cooking since I was a child,” White recently shared. “I love to bake.” White said that he would look for cookbooks and try baking goods such as banana nut bread, chocolate chip cookies and various cakes. “Baking is what got me interested in cooking.” White says that while baking was pure joy for him, he didn’t get serious about his craft until he was in college at Tuskegee University. “My friends and I would gather occasionally and I would be the one selected to prepare the meal.” This is what White says, caused him to take his cooking to the next level. With tips from a friend who was a hospitality management major on ways to make his food better, and hard work, White turned his talent into something profitable. For the past six years, White has been catering professionally, making hearts and stomachs happy. “I started with catering parties and various functions for family members. I’ve done receptions, milestone birthday parties, brunches and many other special events to date.” He says catering is hard work but happy clients and memorable events make it all worth it.
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While White has an active singing career, he says he doesn’t mind being known for solely one thing or the other. “The struggle has not really affected me. I enjoy both areas of creativity and welcome the chance to be known for either.” He says he’s looking forward to the day when he can successfully combine the two passions. “Usually, operating in one capacity gives me the chance to introduce others to the other things that I love to do.” White has dreams of opening an eatery, but it’s still in its early stages. “I plan to have it up and running within the next five years,” he says. “We will serve classic comfort food that everybody loves, and I will also have healthy alternatives for some of our health conscious consumers.” White says there is a growing need for eateries with healthier choices without compromising flavor “and I would love to offer tasty alternatives.” In addition to great food, his eatery will also serve as a hub for wonderful live entertainment. “Music and food have always brought people together and I want my restaurant to continue in this tradition.” Be sure to follow Chris White on social media @officialcwhitemusic on IG and @ misterclwhite on Facebook.
Feeling the essence of it all
BLACK & SOCIAL
by Staff Writer
In 2017, the movie Girls Trip broke box office records across the country. The movie’s comedy and relatability had most moviegoers gripped at the opening credits. The coolest part about the entire film was that these relatable stories happened in a real place the Essence Festival held in New Orleans, Louisiana. While many of us were dead set on getting to NOLA, local, Aisha Davis made it happen through her travel business ‘A Davis Travel’. “I’ve always wanted to attend as I had heard such great things about the Essence Festival. After seeing the movie Girls Trip, I knew EVERYONE would want to go including myself,” she shared. “The momentum for the trip was through the roof. I was super excited once I saw the movie and knew I couldn’t miss it the following year, therefore I put my packages together and released it to the public 2 days later.” So on July 5th, Davis and her group were festival bound. In total, 89 people were chaperoned by Davis’s business to The Crescent City for an experience they wouldn’t forget. Davis shared that customers are looking to travel agents to provide the best overall solution to their individual travel needs. “A Davis Travel offers not just a trip, but a personable experience. I eliminate the stress and planning time for my customers who may find the process overwhelming or simply don’t have the time or patience to book themselves. Being knowledgeable, saving time and energy, offering the best options and delivering the best value are attributes in A Davis Travel. Price is important, but value is what people are looking for.”
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“The highlight of my trip was being able to spend time with my wife at events we both enjoy! Specifically the concerts and cruising during the All White boat party! Aisha, took all the stress of vacationing away by creating affordable and total packages that included everything and was full of excitement. My wife and I intend to go again!” -Thomas (DJ Doc) Howard
Aisha Davis of A Davis Travel
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his year’s festival had a jam packed concert line-up with notables such as Ledisi, Dave Hollister, Blackstreet, Marsha Ambrosius, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson, SWV and Doug E. Fresh, to name a few. In addition to great music, the festival is home to a variety of conferences and expos that focus on Community & Culture, Beauty, Wellness, Lifestyle, Entertainment, Technology, Entrepreneurship and much more; offering attendees a very well rounded experience. When reflecting on the most memorable moments from the trip Davis shared “The total Essence Festival experience was memorable. Learning about the culture, line dancing, seeing people come together to uplift, inspire and simply enjoy each other; shops on Royal Street and trinket shops on Decatur Street; the sights and sounds of Jackson Square; evening music on Frenchmen Street; the famously raucous nighttime Bourbon Street; camaraderie with those traveling with you; traveling stress free and delicious food.” While Davis had all of that to say about the memorable moments, she says she is fulfilled knowing that both the women and men that attended the Essence Festival this year were stress free, satisfied, had the opportunity to create unforgettable memories and simply had a great time. “When someone comes to you and says, ‘I know this was hard and a lot of work, but you did a great job’ (Mary), it puts a smile on my face as I've assisted in making others smile, which is most fulfilling.”
"1st memorable moment was the level of professionalism with A Davis Travel which started our trip off with a stress free fun adventure." -Lori Howard (Revive Our Culture) “It was so nice to see all those Black faces in all the many beautiful hues. Aisha orchestrated an amazing trip for such a great group of people. It was an experience I’ll never forget.” -Sakeenah
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hile the movie Girls Trip focused on the women, we know that men were active at the festival as well. When asked whether anything was planned for the men, she shared “Though this was a girls trip, men traveled and attended the trip as well. For the 2019 Essence Festival, I am in the planning stages of incorporating a Male Essence Experience, therefore we welcome men as well. I am also planning an All Male Experience Trip catering to men. I am open to location ideas.” Even though Davis and her crew are a month and a half into their return back, she already has slots open for Essence Festival 2019. When asked what keeps her going back? Davis said “The variety of artists, culture, delicious food, festival activities at the convention center and just traveling having a great time with friends.” Aisha Davis has conquered bringing us Essence Festival goodness, but don’t limit her business to just planning Essence Festival trips. “I can offer any type of service from concert tickets, car rental, local, domestic, destination/international trips, reunion or group trips or cruises, fundraisers and more. You name it, A Davis Travel can do it. I currently have a DUBAI special going on right which will end September 2019. I’m planning a Thailand package and a 2019 family and friends cruise to name a few, and I am also currently taking payments on my February 2020 South Africa Trip and a slew of other things are in the works.” You can reach Aisha Davis at adavistravelsd@gmail.com
"Going to the Convention Center and seeing all the people that have come from all over, made me feel good that we as Black people can come together to uplift and inspire each other. I would do a repeat with A Davis Travel due to how she made the trip stress free. Everything was planned and organized."
Semond Atkins
"I was really impressed with how Aisha handled things from check in to end of trip. She went above and beyond what any other travel agent would have done. I’m looking forward to our next A Davis Travel adventure."
Tinesia Conwright
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Flying Solo
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and why maybe you should too! By Brandon Johnson, Contributing Writer
Have you ever driven home from work and don’t even remember the drive? Our lives can so easily get on autopilot. When we travel however, especially alone, it’s like a first cup of coffee but for your whole self. BLACK & SOCIAL
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side from a few years in college, I have spent my whole life in the same zip code. I could navigate the 94 and 805 freeways blindly, I know the best taco shop in my area and I’ve seen the gradual effects of gentrification to southeast San Diego. But until 2013 all that I knew of the outside world was learned from the Travel Channel, grade school textbooks and hours spent watching Anthony Bourdain, may he rest easy. My mother used to read me bedtime stories like “Peter Pan” after which we’d have in-depth discussions about far-away places. I couldn’t know then, that we’d never get the chance to see those places together. After losing her to cancer, going broke, and years later losing my first son in his 8th month in the womb a change shifted in me. I knew I needed to live a life of intention. And at that time for me it meant seeing the world, both for them and myself. Waiting to be invited somewhere wasn’t happening, I needed to make it happen on my own. I couldn’t wait for my friends to save the money and hopefully get the time off of work to join me only to have them cancel at the last minute. I also refused to wait for the promised land of retirement. I needed an escape. By now I’d read around 20 travel memoirs, written mostly by women, and countless blogs all about the wonders of solo travel and was resolute that this was the experience I needed to have. I saved my money, got my passport, borrowed a bag from a friend and a guidebook from the library and took off for 11 life altering days in Peru. Thus began my love affair with exploring the world unaccompanied.
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I’ll admit it’s a bit jarring to wake up for the first time in a new country all alone. Nothing is familiar. With no personal guide and little opportunity to test the waters, aside from whatever hours you’ve whiled away on youtube, you are immediately thrown into the deep end of a new culture with its own set of eye-opening challenges and adventures. All of your senses are stimulated at once. Instantly you are hit with a language barrier, new cultural customs, currency exchanges, jet lag, and an influx of new foods and smells, that can be as confusing as they are intoxicating. You then have to find your way to your dwelling. Oftentimes it’s by wading through a sea of aggressive taxi drivers to find the one that seems the most trustworthy.
I used to wonder why God made it so challenging to be born. Why does a bird have to go through all the struggle and discomfort of coming out of a shell just to be arrive here. Then I realized it’s through that challenge and discomfort that we grow. After years spent in monotony and routine, it is quite refreshing to one day just wake up, not because of an alarm clock or kids tugging on your blanket asking for breakfast, but simply because your body is well-rested and you have no job to scurry off too.
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Taking off to an unfamiliar place doesn’t have to be scary. On the contrary, It is the self liberation to go wine tasting in South Africa at your own pace, to leisurely have coffee at a local cafe in Colombia with nothing on the agenda aside from whatever your heart wants to do. Not being forced to entertain or listen to anyone else other than your own thoughts. It’s the freedom to fall asleep in a hammock on the beach listening to waves crash, to dance into the night, eat whenever you’re hungry, or to unapologetically bike to a meadow in Paris, sit by a tree in silence and just read. There are few things like allowing your inner child to explore ruins you’ve seen in movies, to discover secret waterfalls, and sit on pyramids with no velvet rope or security separating you from the work of your ancestors. It is truly a different kind of freedom, one we’ve always known existed, but have convinced ourselves is out of our reach. I know solo travel isn’t for everyone and backpacking and hostels are for even less people. But I encourage you, even if it’s for only once in your life, spend some time in a new place alone. Whether it be for a month or a weekend. It can be across the world or the next city over. Take yourself to dinner, talk to a stranger. Sometimes we need to hold our breaths and dive into the temporary discomfort of a new setting or culture. Not only does that struggle make us stronger, it teaches reminds us of our own resilience. That may be the most beautiful part of venturing into the unknown alone. While you learn a new culture, you simultaneously learn yourself. All the while, leaving a little room for those serendipitous God moments~
Much Ado About Nothing at The Old Globe August 12 – September 16, 2018 BLACK & SOCIAL
Staff Writer
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very summer, The Old Globe debuts their Summer Shakespeare Festival, showcasing some of Shakespeare’s finest work. “Much Ado about Nothing is one of the masterpieces of Shakespeare’s canon, and in a glorious production like this one, it delivers a special kind of joy,” said Erna Finci Viterbi Artistic Director Barry Edelstein. “The play is sparklingly witty, sweepingly romantic, and full of music, laughter, dance, and poetry. It’s everything that’s thrilling about Shakespeare, all in one play. The brilliant director Kathleen Marshall returns to the Globe to make summer Shakespeare magic again, and her company of actors and designers is as good as it gets. This will be a highlight of the Globe’s work, and I know that our audiences will join me in cheering for it.” The cast features Sara Topham as Beatrice (Olivia in the Globe’s 2015 Twelfth Night, Broadway’s Travesties revival and The Importance of Being Earnest, Saint Joan at the Shaw Festival, U.K. world premiere of Love Me Do) and Michael Hayden as Benedick (last at the Globe in Double Indemnity, Broadway’s Carousel, Judgment at Nuremberg, Cabaret, Henry IV, Parts I and II, “Chicago Fire”); Fred Applegate as Dogberry (Broadway’s Wicked, Tuck Everlasting, The Last Ship, La Cage aux Folles), Michael Boatman as Don Pedro, Balthasar (Ken Ludwig’s Robin Hood!, “The Good Fight,” Broadway’s “Master Harold”…and the Boys revival), Manoel Felciano as Don John (the Globe’s The Tempest, Ken Ludwig’s Robin Hood!, and Twelfth Night, Broadway’s Sweeney Todd, Amélie), James Newcomb as Antonio, Verges (the Globe’s Twelfth Night and Coriolanus), and René Thornton Jr. as Leonato (The Tempest, entire Folio at American Shakespeare Center in Virginia). The cast also includes students in The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program, all of whom were seen earlier this summer in the Globe’s The Tempest: Carlos Angel-Barajas (Claudio), Sam Avishay (Messenger), Nora Carroll (Margaret), Yadira Correa (Conrade), Daniel Ian Joeck (Friar Francis), Jose Martinez (Watch), Renardo Charles Pringle Jr. (Messenger), Larica Schnell (Ursula), Jersten Seraile (Watch), Samantha Sutliff (Watch), Morgan Taylor (Hero), Wenona Truong (Sexton), Jared Van Heel (Messenger), and Eric Weiman (Borachio). The musicians are Abigail Grace Allwein (Violin) and James Michael McHale (Guitar).
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Jersten Seraile
Michael Hayden
Renardo Charles Pringle Jr
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Yadira Correa
The creative team includes John Lee Beatty (Scenic Design), Michael Krass (Costume Design), Stephen Strawbridge (Lighting Design), Sten Severson (Sound Design), Stephen Flaherty (Composer, “Sigh No More”), Abigail Grace Allwein (Music Director), Ursula Meyer (Voice and Text Coach), Tara Rubin Casting/ Laura Schutzel, CSA (Casting), and Jess Slocum (Production Stage Manager).
René Thornton
Nora Carroll
William Shakespeare (Playwright), 1564–1616, was an English poet, playwright, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s preeminent dramatist. During his career he wrote 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and other verses. His body of plays consists of the tragedies Antony and Cleopatra, Coriolanus, Hamlet, Julius Caesar, King Lear, Macbeth, Othello, Romeo and Juliet, Timon of Athens, Titus Andronicus, and Troilus and Cressida; the comedies All’s Well That Ends Well, As You Like It, The Comedy of Errors, Love’s Labor’s Lost, Measure for Measure, The Merchant of Venice, The Merry Wives of Windsor, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Much Ado About Nothing, The Taming of the Shrew, Twelfth Night, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, and The Two Noble Kinsmen; the romances Cymbeline, Pericles, The Tempest, and The Winter’s Tale; and the histories Henry IV Parts I and II, Henry V, Henry VI Parts I, II, and III, Henry VIII, King John, Richard II, and Richard III. His plays have been translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright.
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Kathleen Marshall (Director) made her Globe directing debut in 2016 with the acclaimed Love’s Labor’s Lost. Her Broadway credits include In Transit; Living on Love; Nice Work If You Can Get It; Anything Goes; The Pajama Game; Wonderful Town; Grease; Little Shop of Horrors; Follies; Seussical; Kiss Me, Kate; 1776;and Swinging on a Star. Her Off Broadway and regional credits include City Center Encores! (Artistic Director for four seasons), New York Shakespeare Festival, Second Stage Theatre, Hollywood Bowl, Boston Pops, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Long Wharf Theatre, Paper Mill Playhouse, and The Muny. Ms. Marshall’s film and television work includes My Week with Marilyn (choreographer), “Once Upon a Mattress”, “The Music Man” (Emmy Award nomination), and “2 Broke Girls.” She has received three Tony Awards (out of nine nominations), three Drama Desk Awards, three Outer Critics Circle Awards, the Astaire Award, the George Abbott Award, the Smith College Medal (her alma mater), and the Pennsylvania Governor’s Award for the Arts, and she has been named a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania. She is an Associate Artist of Roundabout Theatre Company and a member of the Executive Board of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. Much Ado About Nothing is supported in part by the Jean and Gary Shekhter Fund for Classic Theatre and through gifts from Production Sponsors Joan and Irwin Jacobs, Darlene Marcos Shiley, and June Yoder, as well as Artist Sponsor Ann Davies (for director Kathleen Marshall). Financial support is provided by The City of San Diego.
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Additional events taking place during the run of Much Ado About Nothing include: SHAKESPEARE IN THE GARDEN: Tuesday, August 21; Wednesday, August 22; Thursday, August 23; Friday, August 24; and Saturday, August 25; all at 7:00 p.m. The Old Globe artistic staff presents introductory talks prior to select performances. All talks take place one hour prior to the show, in the Craig Noel Garden. FREE. Visit The Old Globe’s website today at www.theoldglobe.com
JONNAE BLACK & LIVING
Jonnae Thompson’s Journey to Better Eating and Better Living
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Before
After
I always thought the word “detox” was something reserved for alcoholics, chainsmokers, and washed up celebrities who had hit rock bottom. It wasn’t until 2009 when I heard some of my fairly “healthy” friends; Claudia Jordan (Radio Personality/ Actress), Tanjareen Martin (Actress), and Aida Rodriguez (Comedian) mentioning detox on there Twitter and Facebook feeds. Naturally, I was intrigued. I won’t reveal these women’s age but I knew that they were all in their 30s and they all possessed an immense amount of youth, they were grounded, and had smokin’ bodies. So, I called Aida and asked her about this whole “detox” thing. I learned that our bodies have an ability to be toxified from more than just “substance abuse”. I learned that the majority of my diet was actually toxifying my body. Many of the foods that I was eating would leave me feeling lethargic, instead of recharged. Aida, told me about the raw vegan diet, as a method of cleansing the body of toxins. Which is essentially (nuts, fruit, vegetables, legumes, and an endless world of plant based goodness). I learned that the body has the ability to cleanse itself in cycles, through a seven day process. I committed to doing 21-day raw foods cleanse. Through that cleanse I experienced an immense difference in the clarity of my thoughts, higher energy, weight loss, and a better understanding of my body. I did not stick with a raw vegan diet after the cleanse. However, I began to do a quarterly, raw food cleanse. Each time, I would do this cleanse, I experienced the same positive results. The best way to describe the feeling would be, a balance between the mind, body, and soul.
Fast forward to 2013, I moved from Los Angeles back to my hometown San Diego, California. I had a few bouts of depression and overall just checked out on my health. I was drinking more; I was eating more “junk food”. I had made it up to 248 pounds. I knew that I was a beautiful girl and had a pretty positive view of myself physically. Especially being a comedian, I had an ability to own my weight, openly discuss my body image views, and throughout this I learned to love and embrace my body for every inch and pound of it. However, there would be those times where I would hear about an artist who had died of something like a stroke, a heart attack, or losing a battle to diabetes and that would flat out scare me. It scared me because; these would be the things that my physician would warn me of every time I was told that I was “obese”. I would look at these artists and think about all of the touring that they still had left in them, all of the movies that they were supposed to star in, all of the records that they were supposed to record and that made me want to gain a little bit more control over how I treated my own body. I saw how something as small as making better food and all around health choices may trickle down into making better life choices. The focus and discipline that I was seeking in my life all around would manifest through my health journey. About three months into my journey, I was diagnosed with a virus that has no cure. At the time I knew that my options were to be upset about it and slip back into depression, I could live my life taking medication forever, or I could take a holistic approach towards fighting the virus. Seeing how I was already three months into my health journey, I decided to go with the latter and try the holistic approach. That focus and discipline was going to have to come in to play big time. I underwent a series of cell cleansers through Dr. Sebi for a month. During that month, I had to have a raw food vegan diet. This time it made sense more than ever. I was experiencing real life healing through plant based foods and herbs. I was starting to hear about a lot more people fighting “incurable” disease. Everything from lupus, diabetes, to cancer. However, changing their diets to plant based, had somehow created an environment in their body that combats the disease. After being exposed to this new information I decided that I would begin to embark on a journey in the world of healing foods and plant based culinary. I already loved to cook and I’ve always wanted to be a healer so this was a perfect opportunity to marry my passions. I have now committed myself to only preparing plant-based creations at home. I plan to share some of my favorite plant based recipes, product reviews, vegan foodie adventures, and food education with you all.
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B&: What did food mean to you before the transformation? Jonnae: I had no food education. I basically ate
to get full and didn't think about nutritional value. I was not connected to my food or the source. I never paid attention to the chemicals in my food as much as I paid attention to the calories.
I utilized online recipes and then started to focus on which foods provided which health benefits. I followed dozens of vegan accounts on Instagram and that opened my eyes to endless recipes and meal ideas.
B&: What does it mean to you now?
B&: What's the biggest enhancement you've noticed in your life thus far?
Jonnae: I now look at food as something that is
Jonnae: My energy all around has improved.
either healing my body or harming my body. I look for foods that are high in alkaline and low in acid. I look at food as medicine. My body has a way of telling me what it wants and needs now a days.
Everything from reversing my asthma, obesity, joint pain. I feel better now in my 30s than I did as a teen.
B&: What has been the response among your family and friends?
B&: What are some misconceptions that those within the Black community have about being Vegan?
Jonnae: I have had everything from concern,
Jonnae: That vegan is a diet. It's more than that.
ridicule, inquiry, inspiration and support. When I began my journey in 2013 it was less widelyaccepted. Many people would ask how I got protein, if this was safe or healthy. This year I was able to connect with some of the biggest influencers in the vegan and plant-based community and that has been the biggest blessing. I have been exposed to so many more alternatives to meat and animal products.
It's an entire lifestyle dedicated to ending animal cruelty. I personally prefer the term plant-based or vegetarian for myself. There is the misconception that vegans are bougie or think that they are better than those who choose to consume meat. There is the misconception that veganism is a "White thing" when it's actually much closer to our ancestral roots.
Jonnae recently had the chance to intern with Celebrity Plant-Based Chef Lauren Von Der Pool. B&:What were your first steps, as far as And I had my first pop- up Kitchen, Alternative resources to get your started? Creations this year. When it comes to her comedy, she has been seen on TruTv "Laff Tracks" and Jonnae: My first steps were to find foods that I like and tweak them. I love tacos so I started there. All Def Digital, and has toured the nation and 4 countries.
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Healthy Co-Parenting
Contributing Writer: Himbe Knowin Edited by: Patrice L. Burton
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Life is funny my friends. You truly never know how things are going to end up. You merely, dream, plan, hope and then deal with the reality of what life brings you. If you would have told me that I would be a 38 yr old divorcee with a 11 year old daughter, I would not have believed you in my wildest expectations but nevertheless here I am . Today, I'm not really focusing on what got me there, more so, how I am dealing with the present. The reality of co-parenting, which is a pretty common dynamic for so many of us. Considering there are many challenges, I'd like to provide some considerations for developing a healthy co-parenting dynamic.
Internal shift: This is a new relationship.
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Ideally, the first tip would be to remember that it is all about the kid(s). But before we can even get there, on some level there needs to be some internal shifts. Both parties benefit from the realization that the relationship that was, is no longer there. This ushers in the understanding that expectations need to shift. For some, therapy should be a part of this process because in many relationships, some level of hurt has transpired to get to that point. Many bitter co-parenting scenarios are built on old feelings or hurts still lingering from the past relationship. We are still swimming in our relational trauma, which puts us at odds dangling the welfare of the children in between. In the words of Elsa, "Let it gooooo"! Acceptance is real. Does it hurt, yes. Is it fair to have sacrificed so much for this person and not be there anymore, no. However the sooner you allow yourselves to move on, the sooner you can get to identifying the type of life you really want. Who knows, you may even find someone who truly is down for you and love your dirtiest of drawls!
New relationship: Identify new expectations.
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After this internal understanding has been dealt with, then we can begin to talk about expectations. Both parties are developing a different type of relationship. I believe, if you are able to allow a different type of (dare I say) "friendship" to develop, this road can be a lot easier to navigate. This also comes with solidifying expectations, and if you make the child(ren) a priority, it will help navigate these roads in a very different way. Here are some of the big things that need to be addressed. For me, personally, I didn't want to have a lot of things change as it related to my daughter's quality of life.
Consistency
This is primarily connected to funds and time.
Visitation
Also establishing what visitation looks like is also important. Whether it is Hopefully you have been able to come up weekends or weeks at a time, consistency with a dollar amount for monthly support is key. And if something happens where schedules conflict, communication with either with or without court influence. as much notice as possible and with an If it's something that the two of you can alternative is the ideal way to address it. come up with and is fair, it helps take away some of the disgust that goes along This consistency provides the necessary supports that allow for the healthy with giving any type of court mandated development of your children. payment.
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United front: No longer a couple, but forever partners. Another tip would be to do things as a unit from time to time. This will depend on the nature of your relationship. Monthly or even quarterly opportunities to engage would be ideal. It doesn't need to be anything major like a vacation, but something simple like an outing for ice cream or a movie. Ideally, this is an opportunity for the child to see that the parents are a team and invested in their happiness and welfare. The desired experience should be void of arguing and insults. Even though you are now a two household family, you are still tasked with responsibility of establishing a sense of love and security, for your child.
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No New Friends: Delay bringing in new people. This next piece just helps to keep the peace but also allows for some healthy development for the child. All I can picture is that scene from Don’t be Menace, “Are you my daddy?” Now, I know this is not a laughing matter but the reality is that when you bring new suitors into your kid’s lives, attachments are likely to develop. When those relationships go sour, typically the children are left feeling at a loss and it is rare that that hurt is ever really processed, which allows for the possibility of confusion and resentments. If you are dating, as in not exclusively dating one person as in being mutually exclusively dating the same person for at least 6 months (imo), then it is my recommendation that whoever your "dating", "f*cking" or "loving" should not be meeting your child and hanging out. This only provides more trauma for the child if/when that relationship is no longer intact. This can protect you as well as your child because on a real level you may not truly know your partner. I'm all about minimizing conflict and drama. If you find yourself putting these suitors ahead of your children then there may be some need of exploration within yourself about why you’ve chosen to do so and what that means.
Respect each other from afar.
In the end, even though the two of you are no longer a couple, you will always be family, if only in the eyes of your child. Hopefully, you’ve embraced the previous tips, and if so, this part shouldn’t be that challenging. Even if you can’t sing the praises of your co-parent, be sure not to ever bash them in front of your child. Kids are often trying to reconcile their allegiance in these experiences and develop their identity. As kids get older, and you feel that certain conversations of clarity are able to be had, by all means give them reality, but operating in the hurt often bruises the children more than intended. So I encourage you to do whatever is possible to offer your child the foundational and emotional support of a strong and healthy two household family!
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ofo BLACK & LIVING
Bike Sharing Yeah you can borrow that bike! by Staff Writer
Photography by Brandon Johnson
What the ofo? So we’re quite certain you’ve seen the mysterious appearance of yellow bikes around San Diego, as if a massive drop shipment occurred overnight. Well this is the work of a new bike sharing company called ofo. “Founded in 2014, ofo developed the world's first "non-docking" bike sharing platform operated by a mobile application. This platform combines the concepts of the sharing economy and smart appliances to overcome the "last mile of travel" challenges of people in urban areas,” according to their website. The company also encourages users to share their own bikes and join up with the ofo fleet. If a user opts to share their bike, they are then able to gain access to all the bikes. This enables ofo to maximize bike resources and diversity. ofo is also responsible for connecting about 10 million registered users with over 1,000,000 bikes across 34 cities in China. “The application has booked more than 100 million rides. At the beginning of 2017, ofo was handling more than 2 million transactions per day. It was the ninth company in China to exceed one million daily transactions.Now ofo is taking its technology and vision to the US, the UK, and Singapore., expanding its reach and product to a global audience.”
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So how does it work? If you find yourself moseying along and spot one of the yellow rides on the street, you simply: • Download the app ▶ ▶ • Find a bike
Open the app and locate the nearest ofo bike around you
• Scan and Unlock ▶
Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it and begin your trip. (There is a fee)
• Park and Lock ▶
Park the bike safely and legally. Then push the lock down manually
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12 Steps to Keep Burnout Out at Bay Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat, MD
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Burnout is a state of extreme fatigue that occurs when you ignore the signal that your body has been sending you. You continue to plug along even though you are constantly tired whether at work, at home or doing community services.
The following are the steps to follow:
Step One:
Listen to your body! When you feel tired you need to stop and take a break. Get more sleep and rest whenever you feel you need to, in order to maintain your energy level.
Step Two:
Take time off by yourself and just do nothing for few hours. Get a massage, or just a long warm bath whenever possible.
Step Three:
Learn to value your time as much as you value others. Learn to say “no” if you are asked to do something that “doesn’t feel right.” This is part of honoring yourself. At first it can be difficult, but with practice, it becomes easier and easier.
Step Four:
Pace yourself: Evaluate the demands placed on you and see how they fit with your goals. If you are over-involved, reduce the commitments.
Step Five:
Stay away from those people who demand too much emotional energy – they are called “energy vampires.” Surround yourself with positive, supportive family members and friends.
Step Six: BLACK & LIVING
If you have too much responsibility, especially at work, delegate, find or hire help.
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Step Seven:
If your job is no longer rewarding emotionally, consider looking for another one, regardless of how much you are getting paid to do it.
Step Eight:
Learn to keep stress at bay. Learn relaxation techniques such as breathing, medicating, Develop alternative activities such as a relaxing hobby. Having a hobby – and I mean a healthy one – is enriching and keeps your mind and your life balanced.
Step Nine:
Know that you don’t have to take care of everyone, especially family members, at your own expense.
Step Ten:
Make sure that you are eating a healthy, balanced diet that include more fruits and vegetable and less refined sugar and processed food.
Step Eleven:
Stay physically active and get adequate regular exercise. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress.
Step Twelve:
Don’t take life too seriously. Very few people suffer burnout when they’re having fun and laugh often.
Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat, MD is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, a fertility specialist, and an intuitive and spiritual healer. Visit www.drcarolle.com Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat, MD, FACOG is a board-certified Ob-Gyn, fertility specialist, and a gifted medical intuitive, energy and spiritual healer. Having over four decades of experience she has helped many overcome fertility issues and get pregnant naturally. She intuitively knows the underlying reasons why you are not getting pregnant. You can use her services via telephone or you can spend time with her in her sacred garden (in the Mount Helix area of San Diego, CA) if you want to experience her healing in person. Contact: www.drcarolle.com Email: drcarolle@cox.net
Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray Honorary Breast Cancer Survivor is in the Race for the Cure
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S Susan G. Komen® San Diego (Komen San Diego) announced downtown resident, 53-year-old, Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray, as the 2018 Race for the Cure® Honorary Breast Cancer Survivor. As the organization’s spokesperson through the 22nd Annual Race for the Cure on Sunday, Nov. 4, Vanvieldt-Gray credits her survival to her mammogram, treatments developed by Komen-funded research, her positive outlook and the unwavering support of her husband, family, employer and friends.
“The Race for the Cure was the second-best day of my life, after the day I married my husband,” said Vanvieldt-Gray. “It is overwhelming to have all your friends and family reaffirming their love and support for you. It was also inspiring to see those who have won their breast cancer battle and to meet others still fighting, just like me.”
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Last year, Vanvieldt-Gray’s husband, Douglas Gray, created a Race for the Cure team of almost 50 friends, colleagues and family to rally behind Lillian. They raised over $33,000 with over 160 individual donations. When asked, what’s the secret to becoming one of the largest fundraisers in Komen San Diego’s history? They chuckle and say there isn’t a silver bullet—it’s just in their salesperson nature.
“Don’t be afraid to share your story and don’t be afraid to ask,” said VanvieldtGray. “This year, I’m starting my fundraising earlier and going even bigger than last year!” Vanvieldt-Gray’s insurance won’t cover the cost of her final PET scan, and she is prepared to pay $3,000 out of pocket for it, among the other bills rolling in. “We are fortunate to have the means to pay, but other women do not have that option,” said Vanvieldt-Gray. “This is the primary reasons, we are so passionate about raising funds for Komen San Diego.” Komen San Diego’s Screening and Diagnostic Fund provide tests for women and men who are uninsured or underinsured and who do not qualify for state-funded programs. Komen San Diego’s Financial Assistance
Fund supports breast cancer patients’ most critical needs during treatment such as assistance with copays, transportation, food, breast prostheses, childcare, rent, utilities and much more. Vanvieldt-Gray found out she had breast cancer in an airport on the other side of the world on her way to a family reunion. The results were accidentally posted to her online portal before her doctor had the chance to speak with her. “You think you know fear, but you don’t,” said Vanvieldt-Gray. “I experienced a fear that was deep down to my core and it was truly frightening. I had that emotion for 10 days, while I waited to find out more.” Fortunately, Vanvieldt-Gray was diligent about getting her annual mammograms, but she has dense breasts, which could have kept her tumor from being detected earlier. Studies have found women with high breast density have four to five times higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with low breast density. In 2011, Komen San Diego helped pass a law in California requiring doctors to send a letter notifying patients after their mammogram if they have dense breasts. after their mammogram. Unfortunately, there are still no standard screening guidelines for women with dense breasts. However, if a patient receives this notification they should speak with their medical providers about other types of breast imaging and screening tests.
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lthough Vanvieldt-Gray’s grandfather, father and uncles had prostate cancer and an aunt had breast cancer, she did not know that these were signs that her family could be carriers of the BRCA genetic mutation. After being diagnosed, Vanvieldt-Gray tested positive for the BRCA II genetic mutation, which unbeknownst to her increased her risk of a breast cancer diagnosis by 45 to 65 percent. “I want to use this platform to educate people about the importance of learning their family history and talking about it with their physicians,” said Vanvieldt-Gray. “Also, as an African American woman, I was shocked to learn breast cancer is the most common cancer among African American women and we also have a lower survival rate than women from other racial and ethnic groups in the United States.” In San Diego, while the breast cancer incidence rate for African American women is lower than that of Caucasian women their mortality rate is 40 percent higher. Vanvieldt-Gray finished chemotherapy and her mastectomy, and started daily radiation treatments on April 30, 2018. Komen research supported the development of Adriamycin and Taxol, the two breast cancer therapies that Lilian’s medical team are using to save her life. Since its inception in 1995, Susan G. Komen San Diego has invested more than $19 million in global breast cancer research and local breast health services. Keeping those dollars in the community, much of that investment has been awarded to scientists and research institutions in San Diego. Next to the U.S. government, Susan G. Komen is the largest nonprofit funder of breast cancer research in the world.
“I believe in creating possibilities. I have decided that I am going to live,” said Vanvieldt-Gray. “But getting used to a new normal is challenging. We must do more. We need more research. We need more support services.” Douglas Gray is using his platform to educate fellow husbands. “Be there for your wives,” said Gray. “Talk to your employer, come up with a plan on how you can be there for your wife. There is the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and other options that many people don’t know are available to them.” Gray and Vanvieldt-Gray’s courage and passion will make a difference for others who are battling this disease. “This remarkable couple inspires us with their grace and dedication to raising vital funds and rallying their community,” said Shaina Gross president & CEO, Susan G. Komen San Diego. “San Diego is lucky to have them.”
EVENT DETAILS • Event: Susan G. Komen® San Diego 22nd Annual Race for the Cure® - The walk to end breast cancer • Date: Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 • Time: 6:30 a.m. Expo opens; 7:30 a.m. Opening Ceremony; 8:00 a.m. Start; 10:30 a.m. End • Location: Balboa Park; Start: 6th Ave. at Palm St. • Registration/Website: www.KomenSanDiego. org/Walk
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Making the Best Out of Small Outdoor Spaces
As housing construction and housing shortages are both on the rise, things like liveable outdoor spaces are becoming few. Most San Diegans would only dream of having about two to ten acres of open field just right out their back door, but unfortunately, for most of us this simply isn’t the case. So how to you create a cozy outdoor space while not basking in the pain of having no more than a few square feet of grass and dirt to call a backyard? And if you don’t have a backyard, how do you create a desirable patio/balcony area? Well it’s actually quite simple. Here are some tips on what you can do. BLACK & LIVING
The first thing you can do with your small outdoor space is simply make the most of it by tastefully filling it with furniture. Something like a table and two chairs of the right proportions can add character to the space without making guests feel cramped. (photo courtesy House Beautiful)
If you’re working with a small balcony area and don’t have a lot of room for furniture, patio accessories are a great way to go, in addition to a minimal color scheme. This prevents the space from being visually overwhelming. (photo courtesy Harper’s Bazaar)
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If you find you’re into change and don’t want to commit to one style of balcony/patio furniture, then collapsible pieces may be the perfect fit for you. You can change out the space within in minutes, either adding a seat or a table, then taking it away. (photo courtesy of IKEA)
There’s nothing more frustrating than living in a beautiful city with amazing weather and not being able to garden because well you simply just can’t. Well thanks to potted plants, you can simply purchase a vertical wall planter, available in a myriad of designs, and plant away! This mounted horticultural accent will truly bring life to the tiny outdoor balcony/patio space you have. (photo courtesy of Vertical Planters)
We may not realize it, but sometimes a fountain is all you need. Placing this serene piece at the edge of your space may bring just the calm you were looking for. Fountains come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s surely one out there to fit your tiny yard needs. (photo courtesy Styles at Home)
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Swimsuit Melanin Magic
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In sunny San Diego where the weather is near perfect, it’s always best to know where to get the perfect swimsuit to show off that melanin glow. In this editorial spread, we’re showcasing some fabulous fits from Gone Bananas Beachwear, an established swimwear boutique, known for its extensive collection of bikinis to mix and match. For the great accessories in this feature, visit Mimi & Red. A trendy boutique with a hippie-chic vibe offering women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories and gifts. For all things hats, we’d like to thank Goorin Bros. Hat Shop.
Contributing Fashion Editor: Dean Hall Photographer: Isiah Jones MUA: Ashli Taylor Model: Kiera
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Swimsuit: Beach Bunny $170.00 available at Gone Bananas Bag: Mimi & Red $48.00 Hat: Goorin Bros $170.00
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Scarf: Mimi & Red 16.00 Sunglasses: Mimi & Red: 12.00 Swimwear: 76.00 each available at Gone Bananas
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Visor, Earrings, & Bag: Mimi & Red $8.00, 18.00, 32.00 Swimsuit: Luli Fama $170.00 available at Gone Bananas
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Hat: Goorin Bros $160.00 Swimsuit: Luli Fama $86.00 top & bottom Earrings & Necklace: Mimi & Red $18.00, 28.00
Gone Bananas
Mimi & Red
Goorin Bros. Hat Shop
www.gonebananasbeachwear. com
www.mimiandred.com
631 5th Avenue, San Diego 92101
3041 University Avenue, San Diego 92104
Phone: (619) 450-6303
3785 Mission Blvd., San Diego 92109. Phone: (858) 488-4900
Phone: (619) 298-7933
Juicy Couture Debuts New Fragrance Oui Juicy Couture Staff Writer
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Iconic Los Angeles fashion house, Juicy Couture, along with leading global beauty company Revlon, launches the campaign for the new fragrance, Oui Juicy Couture, featuring Brand Ambassadors Devon Windsor, India Graham, Gizele Oliveira, and Luping Wang. Shot by famed photographer, director, and illustrator Quentin Jones, the edgy pop-artesque campaign is refreshingly modern and expressive, bringing to life the #PowerofOui through wild textures, bright colors, and larger-than-life OuiJuicy Couture maxims. Featuring the members of the Oui Juicy Couture squad – Devon, India, Gizele, and Luping, each ad and video displays their distinctive versions of the playful, take-noprisoners OuiJuicy Couture attitude. Designed to be equal parts playful and provocative, Oui Juicy Couture is a showstopping, wear-everywhere fragrance packed with innovative ingredients. The scent pops with the tart juiciness of Waterlemon Accord and Acai Tea Accord. The two notes balanced with the infusion of fresh Pear create an addictive opening like no other. Wild Tuberose, Jasmine Buds Absolute and Dewy Honeysuckle create a floral bouquet that radiates playful femininity. Amber Resins and Captive Musks anchor the unique Techno Woods Accord for an edgy finish that lifts the entire composition. The OuiJuicy Couture bottle makes a statement with its contemporary decanterstyle shape and one-of-a-kind dual color glass. While the soft pink and fiery redorange combination is unapologetically feminine, the oversized gold chain and logo pendant draped around the neck give the design a playfully provocative feel. Finished with a modern crystal topper, the bottle is as elegant and edgy as the Oui Juicy Couture Girl herself Iconic Los Angeles fashion house, Juicy Couture, along with leading global beauty company Revlon, launches the campaign for the new fragrance, Oui Juicy Couture, featuring Brand Ambassadors Devon Windsor, India Graham, Gizele Oliveira, and Luping Wang.
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Shot by famed photographer, director, and illustrator Quentin Jones, the edgy pop-art-esque campaign is refreshingly modern and expressive, bringing to life the #PowerofOui through wild textures, bright colors, and larger-than-life OuiJuicy Couture maxims. Featuring the members of the Oui Juicy Couture squad – Devon, India, Gizele, and Luping, each ad and video displays their distinctive versions of the playful, take-no-prisoners OuiJuicy Couture attitude. BLACK & HAUTE
Designed to be equal parts playful and provocative, Oui Juicy Couture is a showstopping, wear-everywhere fragrance packed with innovative ingredients. The scent pops with the tart juiciness of Waterlemon Accord and Acai Tea Accord. The two notes balanced with the infusion of fresh Pear create an addictive opening like no other. Wild Tuberose, Jasmine Buds Absolute and Dewy Honeysuckle create a floral bouquet that radiates playful femininity. Amber Resins and Captive Musks anchor the unique Techno Woods Accord for an edgy finish that lifts the entire composition. The OuiJuicy Couture bottle makes a statement with its contemporary decanter-style shape and one-of-a-kind dual color glass. While the soft pink and fiery red-orange combination is unapologetically feminine, the oversized gold chain and logo pendant draped around the neck give the design a playfully provocative feel. Finished with a modern crystal topper, the bottle is as elegant and edgy as the Oui Juicy Couture Girl herself.
Introducing the Airbnb of Parking
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Shadrach Vaughn, CEO of Park Connect
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here’s nothing more daunting than needing a parking space and not being able to find one. In a city like San Diego where conventions and tourism are high, places like downtown and the beach areas can fill up quickly putting a high price and a demand on the perfect parking spot. But thanks to the genius of Shadrach Vaughn, CEO of Park Connect, parking is a cinch. So what does Park Connect actually do? “We connect home and business owners who want to earn money renting out their parking spaces with drivers in need of a convenient, safe, and cost-effective place to park. Our website allows drivers to find, reserve and pay for parking seamlessly, wherever and whenever they need it, either in advance or on-the-go,” shared Vaughn. “We manage the entire booking process and all the payments so you can be confident that you are always in safe hands.”
Every summer, Vaughn shared that he used to sell his parking spot by standing in the middle of the street with a sign. “It was always timeconsuming, inefficient, and a little embarrassing. I knew there had to be a better way. So I set out to create an ‘AirBnB for Parking’. But getting a venture like this off the ground takes hard work and definitely comes with its share of challenges. “We face challenges everyday,” said Vaughn. “As we grow we are learning how to overcome those challenges. In the beginning it was definitely getting the technology off the ground. In January of this year we were able to bring on a Chief Technology Officer. He's done a great job at getting the technology up to speed.” Vaughn shared that his entrepreneurial pursuits started from watching his
parents grind as entrepreneurs with passion. “I started a few years ago with my first tech business. I knew from that point I definitely wanted to be an entrepreneur.” Growing up in West Covina, Ca, Vaughn’s entrepreneurial desires were cultivated at Cal State San Marcos where he obtained his degree in Business Administration in 2014. He also spent time working for Fortune 500 companies doing financial analysis and IT project management. For anyone looking to join the millions of other business owners in the world, Vaughn says, simply, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are a lot of resources out there, you just have to reach out. Do your best to be consistent and persistent in everything you do. Lastly, it's marathon not a sprint. Enjoy the ride.” In terms of long term plans for his new business, Vaughn says that in 10 years, he hopes to have shared parking communities throughout the United States.
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Black & Missing Searching for Our Missing People of Color Staff Writer
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his past May, the Black and Missing Foundation Celebrated a Milestone of 10 Years and Nearly 300 Persons Found. What started 10 years ago as a passion project between two sisters-in-law to bring attention to the growing number of missing persons of color, has evolved into one of the nation’s top minority-run organizations, reuniting families and providing much needed closure for others. Since its inception, the Black and Missing Foundation, Inc. (BAMFI) has supported thousands of families in the search for their missing loved ones and gained national recognition for its efforts. “The greatest success for me is pouring our blood, sweat and tears into our community over the past 10 years and to see that our labor of love hasn’t been in vain,” says Co-Founder Derrica Wilson. “I recall when we first started the organization, we said if we find one person, then we did our job. To date, we’ve helped find nearly 300 missing persons of color.” With 240,000 persons of color reported missing every year, the founders realize they still have a vital role to play because these individuals rarely garner the level of attention and exposure as their white counterparts. “Many times, we are families last resort – their last hope,” says CoFounder Natalie Wilson. “This platform allows us to open doors for families searching for their missing loved ones and not restrict access to help.” Over the years, missing persons profiles from BAMFI’s clearinghouse have been featured in People, Essence, Ebony, the Huffington Post, The Root, The Grio, The Washington Post, and on TV One, just to name a few. The foundation also secured an ongoing media partnership with the Michael Baisden Show. In 2017, the founders also received the Black Girls Rock! 2017 Community Change Agent Award. “We have only scratched the surface of this issue in our communities,” says Natalie Wilson. We have come a long way but have much more work to do. To everyone who shared a profile, sent a kind or encouraging word, donated time or money, or assisted us with searching, thank you. To those who still have a loved one missing, we ask you to hold on to hope. Hope that you will get answers, hope that your loved one will return home. Know that BAMFI is with you every step of the way.” To learn more about the Black and Missing Foundation, Inc. and how you can support the organization, visit www.bamfi.org. As an effort to assist in locating our Black & Missing, Black & Magazine will select a few individuals to profile each month, in an effort to bring awareness to their disappearance and recovery.
SPOTLIGHT ON MISSING Deshawn Brown Case Type: Endangered DOB: Jan 01, 2005 Missing Date: Aug 02, 2018 Age Now: 13 Missing City: Chicago Missing State: IL Case Number: x Gender: Male Race: Black Complexion: Medium Height: 5-1 Weight: 135 Hair Color: Black Hair Length: Short
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Eye Color: Brown Wear Glasses or Contacts: No Location Last Seen: 626 S. Clark St. (in the South Loop) Circumstances of Disappearance: Unknown. Last Seen Wearing: A black and orange Nike shirt, brown shoes, knee-high black socks and back shoes. Identifying Marks or Characteristics: Unknown.
Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line
Rayven Shields Case Type: Endangered DOB: Aug 21, 2014 Missing Date: Jul 27, 2018 Age Now: 3 Missing City: Bryan Missing State: TX Case Number: NCMEC1335179 Gender: Female Race: Black Complexion: Dark Height: 3-0 Weight: 65 Hair Color: Black Hair Length: Medium Eye Color: Brown Wear Glasses or Contacts: No
Location Last Seen: It is believed that the mother placed the child with someone to intentionally hide the child from CPS. Circumstances of Disappearance: The Bryan Police Department is working with Child Protective Services (CPS) to locate Rayven Shields. Rayven's mother, Virginia Adams, was arrested Wednesday and charged interference with child custody after police say she refused to cooperate with a CPS investigation against her. A court order was recently obtained by CPS giving them custody of Rayven. Police say they are asking for the public's help in locating Rayven so they can assist CPS in making sure she is being taken care of properly. If someone has possession of Rayven and knowingly keeps her from CPS, they may face charges of interference with child custody, a state jail felony punishable by up to two years in jail. Last Seen Wearing: Unknown. Identifying Marks or Characteristics: Unknown.
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Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line
Amid Rising Costs of Housing Senator Kamala Harris Introduces Bill to Provide Rent Relief Staff Writer
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the country, rising rents and flat paychecks prevent them from enjoying the basic, fundamental human right to affordable housing.”
“As far too many families scramble to afford the cost of living, we must keep With the cost of housing working to find solutions to continuing to rise in California our affordable housing crisis,” and across the country, U.S. said Senator Hassan. “I’ve Senator Kamala D. Harris heard from businesses across recently introduced legislation our state that one of their to provide rent relief for most pressing challenges working families struggling is a shortage of affordable to pay their bills. The Rent housing for their prospective Relief Act would create a new, employees. This commonrefundable tax credit to put sense bill would create a more money in the pockets refundable tax credit to of families at a time when help bring relief to families renters’ wages have remained who struggle to afford their stagnant and housing costs rent and expand economic have increased rapidly. Harris opportunity for hardwas joined in the introduction working Granite Staters and by Senators Dianne Feinstein Americans.” (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Maggie Hassan (D“The lack of affordable NH). “America’s affordable housing crisis has left too many families behind who struggle each month to keep a roof over their head,” said Senator Harris. “This bill will ensure no family is priced out of the basic security of a place to live. Bolstering the economic security of working families would strengthen our country and increase opportunity.” “This bill would help more than 140,000 low-income Connecticut families struggling to pay rent each month, providing them much needed relief and flexibility to spend on other vital needs like health care and putting the American Dream within closer reach,” said Senator Blumenthal. “For far too many in Connecticut and across
to California’s Department of Housing and Community Development, nearly 1/3 of California renters (3 million California households) are rent burdened, and California has the third highest rents in the country. More than 1.5 million households are severely rent burdened and more Americans than ever are renters. The share of US households that were renters climbed to 35 percent in 2012, up from 31 percent in 2004.
Under Harris’ Rent Relief Act, the refundable tax credit will be available to individuals who live in rental housing and pay more than 30% of their gross income for the taxable year on their rent including utilities. Eligible individuals would qualify for the tax benefit by determining the total amount spent yearly on rent, taking into account the family’s annual income, housing is a national emergency,” said Matthew and a rate of the federal government’s established fair Desmond, Author of market rent controls.
“Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City.“ Senator Harris is bringing heightened awareness to a crisis that’s been ignored for far too long. The Rent Relief Act reflects a strong commitment to ensuring that all Americans have access to a safe and affordable home.” A report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition illustrates that there is a shortage of 7.4 million affordable rental units for America’s 11.4 million extremely lowincome families. According
Individuals who live in government-subsidized rental housing could claim the value of one month’s rent as a refundable tax credit. Subsidized rent is normally capped at 30% of a person’s income, making them eligible for the tax benefit for rentburdened residents. The Rent Relief Act would give muchneeded relief to lower income residents. The Rent Relief Act is supported by: the National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Alliance to End Homelessness, Fair Housing of California, and the National Housing Law Project
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"I applaud Senator Harris for her leadership in introducing this innovative, bold proposal, which would help struggling families who today face impossible choices between paying rent and meeting their other basic needs, including putting groceries on the table and taking care of their health,” said Diane Yentel, President and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. “A new tax credit for renters - like the one proposed by Senator Harris - could transform lives, providing millions of the lowest income people with the breadth of opportunities that start with an affordable home - opportunities to climb the economic ladder, improve their health, and allow children to do better in school." “Home is not just where we keep a roof over our heads — it’s where we raise families, become part of a community, and create a lifetime of memories,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. “It’s also where we want to stay, and Senator Harris’ legislation would help protect millions of families from losing their homes, by expanding benefits and opportunities for people who pay rent every month.”
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“Nearly every Oakland resident who pays rent will save money under this law,” said Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf. “At a time when our city is fighting the displacement of long-time residents, The Rent Relief Act of 2018 will help working class families, artists, senioraged tenants, and anyone else who struggles to make the rent each month. I’m proud to partner with Sen. Harris to fight California’s cost of living crisis and deliver more affordable housing to all Oaklanders.” “Thank you to Senator Harris for acting with urgency, thoughtfulness and creativity to help address the housing crisis that is impacting cities throughout California,” said Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg. “This bill would be an important tool to provide real relief for millions of people struggling through no fault of their own.” “Mayors across the country should applaud Senator Harris’ proactive leadership in addressing the housing crisis impacting millions of renters,” said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo. “With the billions in tax subsidies allotted to billionaires through last year’s tax changes, this legislation provides a refreshing contrast for working families who struggle daily.” “In Stockton, one in two residents will pay over 30% of their income to housing,” said Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs. “We have seen some of the highest rent increases in the nation, making even finding a place to live a major challenge. It will take solutions from both State and Federal officials, as
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In light of the housing shortages and rising prices of rent, it’s a wonder how so many people are able to live in one of the most expensive cities in the country. Recently, Black & Magazine went to Social Media to ask locals two questions. How have you battled the cost of living in San Diego? What's making you stay in America's Finest City?
(We are using their Social Media names) Chase LiveMuzic Duvell shared “My job is keeping me here for now. Advice and recommendations? Work harder for the jobs that pay more, for Blacks, step out your comfort zone, if you're a business owner. So many Black owners don’t target white consumers and homeownership. It's a hell of a lot cheaper than renting. Ashli Taylor shared “My Fiance is in school here. Once he is done...we are out!!! The weather isn't enough to keep me in San Diego. I'll take financial stability over sunshine any day. Plus the people here aren't that inviting. And I don't know bout that finest city thang.....she probably used to be fine back in the day. She done let herself go a lil bit!” Kimberly Goring shared “Family, medical care, family that are growing old including parents are reasons keeping me here. I want my girls to be close to family also as a single parent I depend heavily on the support of the tribe it takes to raise children.” Regina Bradley shared “My husband & I stay because of family ties & we've adjusted to our lifestyle here. We've kept our costs low & have multiple streams of income to make it more affordable; we own businesses to keep our tax liability low & we incorporate most of our life expenses into the business in order to recapture much of the outgoing cash; we manage finances pretty strategically to make it all doable. It's all a big game of capitalism. Once I started to understand the rules the game got easier to play. No upcoming relocations in the forecast for us. Remy Gaither shared “I’ve been a property manager in San Diego for 17 years. I see a different side. It’s business. Yeah rent and mortgage are high. But you’re not just paying for where you live. You’re paying for atmosphere and environment too. It’s like how you can get a crab cake for $57 at Eddie V’s. It’s better quality. It’s atmosphere. Or you can get a crab cake at Crab Hut for $11. That’s San Diego vs a majority of other cities.”
Yoli Marie shared “ The only thing keeping me here is my job, but if given the chance to leave, I will. However, I'm in a long distance relationship and he's planning on moving here next year, so that's another thing that's kinda keeping me here because I don't have any close family and all my close friends have moved already or are moving. But the cost of living in San Diego is out of control, so we've been tossing around the idea of moving to North County or even to another state. I'm lucky, I guess, that I'm able to keep my costs way down because I don't have kids, I don't have debt, I have a good paying job, and I live in East County which is still relatively cheap in comparison to other parts of San Diego. But again, moving to North County or out of state is definitely on my mind. More than likely North County because I actually do like California, and being near water. I have to admit, I can't think of any other state that offers what Cali does: beach, desert, mountains, no humidity or hurricanes lol” Regina Malveaux shared “Born and mostly raised in San Diego. Lived most all of my adult life in SD. Also struggled throughout the years that I was raising a family despite having a law degree and an impressive resume. Wages in my field did not keep up with the extraordinary cost of living my hometown. I miss the beaches, ocean and those I love in San Diego but absolutely do not miss the struggle.” Reginald T. White shared “ San Diego is a beautiful place if you get out to enjoy it. I’ve done the math on moving other places. When you look our property taxes, insurance, and utility cost in comparison to other cities and other climates the savings is not that much greater. It’s all about prioritizing what you want. Tips to savings, finding groupons, budgeting, planning travel, cooking vs. eating out. Finding a side hustle like Uber something you can do in your spare time. There are people doing more with less, than people who are making more.”
Delia Michelle Huffman shared “ Hello! We have mostly been a single income family, my husband has had to work 2 jobs to allow me to stay at home to homeschool our kids. But we have decided to do without many things so that I can do so. We don't have cable, we don't do credit cards, we keep our fridge clean and lean we leave all the extras for the future when our kids are grown. They have not done without because what we give them in return is our time. We ride bikes to the beach and have picnic lunches in the mountains. I would say that our biggest expense is our cellular bill, which is still low since we moved to T-Mobile, but even that is "cheap" because we don't always get the best coverage, but again, we learn to do with less to get ‘more’. Best of luck to you always. Xoox” Wendy Shurelds shared “I'm originally from Ohio, however San Diego is now my home! Not having family here gave me the strength and extra push I needed in order to succeed! I only had myself to depend on and created many niches for myself from being in the medical field and a realtor working both fields until I could afford to only work one which is real estate. I've been a realtor for almost 20 yrs. Although the cost of living is high I stay because I can't imagine myself living anywhere else other than America's Finest City! My advice is to cut cost as much as you can, eliminate any unnecessary bills and find flexible employment in order to have/ or create multiple incomes for yourself. Also, I'd suggest going into entrepreneurship. Daoud El Chaleco Bakr shared “Great question! Create a financial plan and have the discipline to stick to it. Within my plan I'm working on multiple streams of income and investing in real estate as a hedge against inflation.”
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