SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019
ISSUE 4
Sickle Cell Awareness
#DOITFORTHEBLOOD BUSY BODY
Entrepreneurs
Rated
THE LIFE OF Monierica Thomas ALBANY, GEORGIA
BOUJIE
ENTREPRENEUR Â MAGAZINE
TIFFENY YOUNG FOUNDER OF BOUJIE'S BOX, RATED BOUJIE MAGAZINE, RATED BOUJIE AWARDS AND MIZZ BOUJIE
FRONT COVER MODEL Monierica Thomas
BACK COVER MODEL Roxy Perez
LAYOUT & DESIGN Rated Boujie Magazine
Rated Boujie Magazine www.RatedBoujie.com
Rated Boujie Awards www.RatedBoujie.com/awards
CONTENTS 06 BUSY BODY ENTREPRENEURS 25 CONFIDENCE IS KEY! MODEL ART 39 LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE 45 THE YUMMY FACTOR 49 BEAT TO THE GODS! 55 FEATURE MONIERICA THOMAS 58 BOUTIQUE EXCLUSIVES 69 STITCHED BY ME! 80 THE ART TRAP! BY TAY MAYBERRY 87 UNIQUELY WRITTEN 90 HAIR KINGDOM GALLERY! 96 FANCY FINGERS 99 TRIBUTE TO NECIA JONES 3
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Cheryle Brown-Williamson Huntington Beach, California WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? I am in the Real Estate industry, I do Home Staging/Interior Redesign is my business. Just the Right Touch home staging. I am also a Realtor selling/buying homes in California. My model is I Re-Fashion homes to be sold. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? Needed to get away from Corporate America. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Staging occupied homes, where they destroy your items.
SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. Did you know… - that home staging can help homes sell quickly and for top dollar? -that staging your listing with a professional frees you up to do what you do best, listing homes and serving your clients? - that a professional home stager can make suggestions to home owners concerning pets, repairs, odors, and decorating styles that you might not want to make because you could offend them? I would welcome the opportunity to help you or someone you know make fast, dramatic transformations to their homes, often using what they already have!
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Lydia Harris
Farmville, North Carolina
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? My business is Cloud Makers. I came up with the name 4 years on a whim. I was volunteering for a a fundraiser and decided to do something nice by providing a room full of balloon decor. When i was ask by a guest," what is the name of your business?" It caught me by surprise because, I didn't have a business. So I blurted out, "Cloud Makers!" To me, the balloons resemble Clouds at the time. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? Curiosity and family/friends lack of support. I know what your thinking. Negativity from others has been my greatest motivation. The lack of support and silence from people I thought love me was shocking. Proving to myself, that I am more than capable of running a successful black business WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Balancing a budget for expenses and putting most of the money earn back into the business. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. My brand specializes in Weddings, Special Events, Balloon Art, and DJ Services
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Houston,Texas
Karamell Brown
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? KBNotary Signing Agency & More I came up with the name based on general notary work I was previously providing for my employer. Once I embarked on a niche market with loan signing notary, I began to add additional services to better serve my customer base. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I needed more time for with my children. Family means everything to me and I was tired of putting in countless hours for someone else's business dream. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Understanding business structures, building a client base and marketing have been the hardest part of my entrepreneurial journey.
SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. My brand is built around convenience of my clients.(I travel to my clients any time any day) Im mobile, efficient and ethical.
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S'Jarna Thomas Houston, Texas
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? The hardest part on my entrepreneurial journey has been starting my business on my own in most aspects of my business. Putting the work in by myself has been very rewarding, as I’ve built my business to be duplicated if I desired to franchise.
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? S’Jarna Thomas & Co. Virtual Coaching Center. With a vision of expansion and future employees working with me on my mind, I used my name as I am my brand. The “Virtual Coaching” part of my name came from me wanting to be able to reach people no matter where they are to assist them.
SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I help mompreneurs confidently create their household system and set boundaries in order to live a more fulfilled and self full life while being able to start and manage their dream business. As women, our true happiness comes from doing what we ultimately love to do and I am here to help guide mompreneurs in their business start up journey.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I’ve always had an entrepreneur spirit and being that the majority of my life consisted of helping others advance in their lives, I saw fit for me to offer my expertise to more than just family.
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Latoya McNeal East Orange, New Jersey WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? My name is Latoya McNeal and I am the Founder of VictimtoVictory. I started VictimtoVictory because there are so many women and men out there who suffer from or have suffered from trauma as a result of Domestic Violence and other forms of abuse. Due to the lack of resources available VictimtoVictory will be an alternative resource that women and men can utilize. The mission of VictimtoVictory is to provide techniques and motivational affirmations through life coaching which will assist women and men who have experienced trauma with getting their lives back on track. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? What inspired me to become an entrepreneur is my years of experience working within the human services field. As a human services professional with years of experience helping women and men who have been victims of trauma such as domestic violence and other forms of abuse I have the tools and skills needed to help women and men cope as an alternative method.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? What has been the hardest part on my entrepreneurial journey is gaining clientele but I do not allow that to discourage me because I know that aside from trying to be that change agent on a larger scale that these issues are very sensitive and most people who have experienced domestic violence or other forms of abuse are embarrassed about it and fearful of being judged by others. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I want people to know that VictimtoVictory will be a well known brand because of what it represents and because it’s not your ordinary company. VictimtoVictory allows people to be comfortable in their own zone by providing all Telehealth services which means that women and men have the option of having sessions over the phone or through video chat. VictimtoVictory is aware of the growing changes and advancements with technology and how the internet is the cornerstone for almost everything.
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Houston, Texas
Andrea Clark WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? The name of my business is Standard Beauty Aesthetic. I want to raise a standard in the beauty industry of skin care. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? Being able to treat EVERY client like the unique individual that they are. Chain spas treat their client like a number. Every skin is different and unique because each person is. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? The hardest part is coming out of my comfort zone and marketing in social media platforms. I’m an introvert with an extrovert personality SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. Standard Beauty Aesthetic is a mini spa that’s Oncology Trained and certified. We aim to educate each client on their skin type, sub condition and product ingredients as their skin is receiving hydration and therapy that will leave their skin moist and supple. Relax and GLOW!!!
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WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? Envy Events by Anvy, when I was in school a young man use to run around the school saying Anvy I Envy you I didn't know what he meant but it annoyed me. Now that I am grown and can create envious Events I thought let me play on some words and Tadah Envy Events by Anvy was born. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? My excitement and happiness that I have when creating events puts me in another place and I thought, hmmm I don't feel like this at work I need this in my life. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Maintaining a steady flow of income so I can walk away from corporate America
Ann Davis Houston, Texas
SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. LGBTQ FRIENDLY, it's an Envy QUEENDOM (5 businesses)
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Robin Garner WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? Turn Up Your Credit. It was inspired by the song Turn Up for What. As I sang that song I just threw some words to turn up for and credit score was one thing to turn up for. And there it was born ð&#x;˜€ WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? To be honest I love to be incharge. I love to see others succeed, it makes me feel good that I had a part of their happiness.
Knoxville Tennessee
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Building inconsistent clientele. People start out good but when it comes to the being discipline part of credit repair it becomes hard to keep them focused on their WHY. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. My brand focuses on the clients needs first. We offer several bonuses within our service to not only help repair your credit but it has tools to get you financially literate so you don't fall back into bad financial habits. Also, results are guaranteed within 4590 days. There are no obligations or contracts. And we also we travel and teach kids 8-18 the power of credit along with giving to schools and giving scholarships yearly.
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"PLEASE DON'T FORGET ABOUT ME!" #SMALLBUSINESSENTREPRENEUR
Heather Weatherspoon
Louisville, Kentucky
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? Exquisite Lengths Beauty & Brow Bar - I came up with the name because I want all walks of life to understand that the beauty that can be done to oneself are exquisite and endless. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR?I was inspired to be an entrepreneur because of where I grew up; West End of Louisville, Ky. There was no one who looked like me who did what I wanted to do. They were either a factory worker or homeless. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? The hardest part of my journey I would say, has to be explaining to other entrepreneurs that they’ll be ok. They just have to trust the process. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I’m the 8 year owner of Exquisite Lengths Beauty & Brow Bar. I’ve also been a licensed Esthetician with the state of Kentucky for 9 years. I’m known as the Lady Brazilianaire because of my impeccable Brazilian Waxing skills where on average, I Brazilian wax 70 men and women every week. I even own, ‘The Waxing Institute,’ in Louisville, Ky. In conjunction to the other services that I offer, I just recently opened a 3,000sq ft. day spa on the southwestern side of Louisville, KY. We offer braiding, lash, nail and skin care services. We offer discounts to senior citizens, college students, military servicemen and police officers. We even service men and are LGTBQ friendly. I’m the author of the 3 ebooks, ‘Getting Clients Into Your Space,’ ‘Turning Your Groupon Clients Into Regular Paying Clients: The Money Making Guide For Salon Professionals,’ and ‘The Power of Bugeting & Profit Planning.’ I’m also the author of 1 novel, ‘Surviving Divorce While Making $100k.’ I’m the owner of the manufacturing company that houses the MinaBell Post Waxing Body Care, MinaBell Body Care and The Exquisite Yoni Herbs. And each lady of my team owns their own product line too. We’re even advocates for women’s health and demonstrators at the local cosmetology schools with the city. We offer spa parties for special lady days as well as traveling services.
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Grand Prairie, Texas
Shandreca Gibson WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? The name of my business is Ziv Products and I make hair care products. My husband tried every beard product and it didn't work. One day I told him I would make products that are natural and it took weeks to do the research to find the perfect ingredients. I also made scalp serum for people who have scalp disorders such as myself. I have Lupus and excessive hair loss. I made these products to help people all around the world and I would love to share my products with everyone. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I am a disabled veteran and I had multiple government and state jobs. I felt as if I didn't fit in with the jobs I had and wanted to do something I truly love and that is to help people. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? I would say the hardest part is having support from everyone especially my family and friends because everyone say they will support you and never do. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND.:I just want to let the viewers know that I made this product for people who are experiencing hair loss from stress, genetics, or scalp disorders. I tried injections, vitamins, and medicine and nothing work. My scalp would hurt with the sores and I cried constantly. I am so proud that I took this opportunity to make something for myself and everyone else.
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WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? The name of our business is Fantastical Catering. We are catering company located in Spring, Texas. One day we were deciding on names and Chef Jarron said “what about Fantastical Catering”? Now me, being the spelling bee champ I am said umm sir.. that’s not a word. Upon research, Chef Michelle discovered that it was indeed a word. The rest is history. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? The thought of being able to work for ourselves and employ fellow go getters is exciting. We’re in the business of breaking generational curses. In both of our families, wealth is not something that was acquired. Being entrepreneurs, we’re taking the steps to bring wealth that we can be left behind for generations to come. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? To be completely transparent, the hardest part has been not getting deterred along the way. Everyday is a step further. Having your own business is amazing blessing, but everyday is easy. Business isn’t always popping. Some months are slow. Some days feel as if they’re dragging by. That’s when we refocus, get our heads in the game and remember the end goal: being the very best! SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. Our brand will be our dynasty, our legacy. We value quality in everything that we do. Our goal is to not just be citywide, but nationwide. With us, our motto is simple. “You don’t have to go to a five star restaurant to get a five star experience”. Food is not just something you eat to us. It’s art, our verb, our passion. Food is what we love. Be on the lookout for us because we’re definitely on the come up!
Michelle Williams Spring, Texas
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Lithonia, Georgia
Lisa Fields
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? The name of my business is ElleSimone Boutique & Beauty Bar, LLC. The name originated from the letter of my first name which is (L) Elle and Simone is my middle name. You have ElleSimone. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I am blessed to be a Deputy Warden for the Georgia Department of Corrections, however I always knew I was meant to create a lane and generate my own income. It started when I trained and worked in the tax preparation field and successfully built my clientele to over 150 clients per tax season. I began to think about other avenues that I’d be interested in pursuing. I then began making jewelry and took up training on how to help bring out more confidence in women. I now am trained in Teeth Whitening, Non-Invasive Liposuction, and V-Steaming. All of these services are feel good services which I offer at my beauty bar at a affordable price, I must say. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Feeling like there isn’t enough time in the day in addition to doing everything on my own has been tough. I am only available evenings and weekends to perform these feel good services. I would love to just be able to dedicate more time to my business. That would free me up to be with my family more as well. Fear is the problem that many entrepreneurs face. We’r scared to step out on faith and just do it! SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I would like for everyone to know that my brand is forming and it’s forming like a storm. The things that I have to offer and for affordable pricing will secure my spot in this cosmetic world. I enjoy the look on my client’s face when they are satisfied with their results and their customized accessories. The feeling I get is indescribable. Be on the look out for ElleSimone Boutique & Beauty Bar...
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Lufkin, Texas
Kimberley Jones
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? My business name is: Eulays Styles And More. Shorter Version EulaysStyles I came up with this name in 2017. It was name after my beloved grandmother Eula. All she liked to do was shop. She always kept up with the latest trends and styles. Looking her best everywhere she go. Fashion was her thing. My store is inspired by my grandmother fashionable taste. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? What inspired me was. Working years for companies that do not appreciate your worth. Not having family morals or even fairness. So one day I said I wanted to be my own boss. Thats when I took the steps went to school in 2010 and prepared for EulaysStyles. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Dealing with unsatisfying customers. People not valueing your time and effort and joggling your everyday life.SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND.:I have a Cosmetics Line dropping in 2020. Called Shehis. Which are lashes and facial care
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Ruskin, Florida
Lakisha Stinson
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? Experience The World With Class LLC When I think of travel I think of my customers travelling all around the world to see different destinations and this is how I came up with my business name. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I enjoy seeing the smiles on my customers face when I create and book their trips. So I decided this is what I love to do. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? Sometimes it's hard getting customers or booking travel in the slow seasons. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I assist with helping people start their own travel business.
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Atlanta Georgia
Nakeisa Jackson WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH IT? Aniyahs Space Inc. In 2015 the name Aniyah dropped in my spirit, I looked it up and it meant Gods gift. A few months later I found out I was pregnant and immediately knew it was Aniyah. A few weeks later I miscarried. I was hurt and upset and had no space to go. So I started blogging under this platform. Eventually I told more of my story and realized that Aniyahs Space is a safe space for women to be able to heal. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? I grew up as an entrepreneur I always was a writer and I started a business at 11. My family has entrepreneurs all in it. I worked as a nurse for 8 years and realized that I needed to create what I didn’t see. I picked back up my Entrepreneur hats. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART ON YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? The hardest part has being the brand and funding. SHARE WITH OUR VIEWERS ANYTHING ELSE, YOU WOULD LIKE FOR THEM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BRAND. I would like you to know that while your issue may not be the issues I have there is space for you at Aniyahs Space whether virtual or in person. We are launching this fall and can’t wait to love on you.
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FEATURED MODEL
Tomathan McGinnis PHOTOGRAPHER: COSPLAY COMPOSITES WEAPONS DESIGNER: ADAM BURNETT MUA: CAT FLURY
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FEATURED MODEL
Tomathan McGinnis PHOTOGRAPHER: BUCK SANCHEZ STYLIST: BUCKZ CLOSET
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FEATURED MODEL
Cassie Leigh PHOTOGRAPHER: GROOVY PHOTOS OUTFIT: FASHION NOVA
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Dnechelle Pascot PHOTOGRAPHER: LENNY CLICKEDIT STYLED BY DNECHELLE PASCOT
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Donavon Markeith PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID WILLIAMS STYLIST: DONAVON MARKEITH
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FEATURED MODEL
Chamond Brooks DESIGNER: ROCKY BOSTON PHOTOGRAPHER: KUYA GREG MUA: SARAH AARON
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FEATURED MODEL
Jennifer Mills PHOTOGRAPHER: GROOVY PHOTOS OUTFIT: FASHION NOVA HAIR/MUA: THE FAIREST ONE
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FEATURED MODEL
Wendy Fritts PHOTOGRAPHER: GROOVY PHOTOS OUTFIT: FASHION NOVA
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FEATURED MODEL
Cece Nicole PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHAELSEYE FOTOGRAPHI DESIGNER: JENNIFER WILLS MUA: JACARRA WASHINGTON
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FEATURED MODEL
E Love Johnson PHOTOGRAPHER: ANTIONNE JONES STYLIST: BEAU CURVIAN GIRL BOUTIQUE MUA: E LOVE JOHNSON
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FEATURED MODEL
Laila T PHOTOGRAPHER: K OF K PHOTOS MUA: MWUA MWUA BEAUTY HAIR: LOVELY'S HAIR AFFAIR
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H-TOWN H-TOWNTRAP TRAPBRUNCH BRUNCH PRESENTED BY RELEASE THE BEAST MARKETING
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RATED BOUJIE PRESENTS BROKEN BUT BLESSED SISTERHOOD BRUNCH JUNE 30, 2019
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TUNE
IN
THE
YUMMY FACTOR recipes for every cook!
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Trufit
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7271 WURZBACH ROAD STE 222 SAN ANTONIO, TX
BEAT TO THEÂ GODS!
Be You_tiful Butterflies MUA CHRISTY JACKSON HOUSTON,TX
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Be You_tiful Butterflies MUA CHRISTY JACKSON HOUSTON,TX
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Donyale Jones THE MAKE-UP ARTIST
HOUSTON,TX
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HOUSTON,TX
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FEATURE
Stepping
INTO
SUCCESS WITHMonierica Thomas ALBANY, GEORGIA
My Business name Prima Donna Beauty Bar LLC. Prima Donna Beauty Bar LLC came about one day when I was home just sitting around looking for a way to make some money after moving back to my hometown ( Albany, Ga). I once went by Virtuous Chic but I outgrew that name and became number 1 which is one of the meanings of Prima Donna besides head lady! I really fit the name well. I was inspired after moving back to my hometown. My husband and I decided to move back home to have help with our 5 boys. I was kind of upset but I understood the decision. I did go into a depression because I was out of work. One day I was unpacking a few boxes and came across my lash kit and Whew Chile I just knew I was over it from the training class. But, I took the kit and ran a special on social media and it been on since then Sept 2016 to be exact. After building my clientele I decide to open up my business outside of my home and it has been successful since. God, my broke pockets, my family, and my passion inspired me to go forth.
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WITH
Monierica Thomas The hardest thing I have dealt with is being lenient of others in the business with me when it came payment. I tried to understand the issues that they may have faced but the whole time Individuals will take your kindness for your weakness and plot things against you or use you til they can't use you anymore. So I had to get the balls and let go. It was hard because I didn't want to deal with people trying to bad mouth me for the negligence towards me, my business and brand. I was drained from my faith, my energy, my business til the point i wanted give up. But God brought me back to reality that it was necessary so that I could go to the next level! Prima Donna Beauty Bar LLC Now offer other businesses opportunities to become there own bosses and business owners. Prima Donna Beauty Bar LLC is a full service salon with 3 stylist because you know how things get in business, but we once had 9 stylist. We also have a pastry and Boutique. I myself offers many service such as lash extensions, facials, brow service, yoni steaming, makeup, training and tooth gems. We are the one stop shop in Albany, Ga
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FEATURED BOUTIQUE
Yesac Boutique
BOUTIQUE BOUTIQUE
EXCLUSIVES
YESAC BOUTIQUE HOUSTON, TX
MODEL: CALVETTA LANE | PHOTOGRAPHER: DEANDRA CARROLL
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YESAC BOUTIQUE HOUSTON, TX
MODEL: ROXY PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHER: ROBERT MANN
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BOUJIE'S BOX ACCESSORIES HOUSTON, TX
MODEL: SHY& POCA | PHOTOGRAPHER: ROBERT MANN
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BOUJIE'S BOX ACCESSORIES HOUSTON, TX
MODEL: MIZZ BOUJIE | PHOTOGRAPHER: ROBERT MANN
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THE SHOE GODESS LLC DALLAS, TX
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THE SHOE GODESS LLC DALLAS, TX
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DORCAS COLLECTION HOUSTON, TX
MODELS: ASHLEY CALDWELL & ERICA ALBERT | PHOTOGRAPHER: THE LENZZ
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DORCAS COLLECTION HOUSTON, TX
MODELS: NATAILE BARNABY | PHOTOGRAPHER: THE LENZZ
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PHATFINE'S CLOSET HOUSTON, TX
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FEATURED DESIGNER
Alexandria Lee Designs
S T I T C H E D B Y
DESIGNER COLLECTIONS
M E !
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHAELSEYE FOTOGRAPHI
DESIGNER KYMAREO
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHAELSEYE FOTOGRAPHI
DESIGNER KYMAREO
DAVI BRIDAL COLLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHER: POINT & CLICK PHOTOGRAPHY
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DAVI BRIDAL COLLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHER: UNKNOWN
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DAVI BRIDAL COLLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHER: J RALPH PHOTOGRAPHY MUA: MICHELLE COFIELD
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PHOTOGRAPHER: GREG SHAW PHOTOGRAPHY
ALEXANDRIA LEE DESIGNS
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PHOTOGRAPHER: GREG SHAW PHOTOGRAPHY
ALEXANDRIA LEE DESIGNS
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HOUSTON, TEXAS Born and raised in Omaha, NE, Tay thought she would grow up to be an accountant or storm chaser. She has always had a love for fashion accessories. Circa 2008, Tay stopped shopping for accessories found in stores and boutiques and decided to follow her heart. It was then that she began creating and crafting. Tay has always felt that she was lacking something and knew that she wanted to achieve her own look. Design became a driving force and a major part of her life imprint. In late 2017, Tay decided to pick up a paint brush and began her pursuit of visual art. She is a selftaught artist, expressing her heart, mind and soul on canvas. The colorful conversational pieces manifested are a direct impression of her creative expression. Everything comes from within. Her style is inspired by uniqueness, love, equality, balance and pushing the limit. It's ok to be different.
Tay Mayberry ARTIST
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Victoria Washington R&B SINGER Beaumont born and Houston raised, Victoria has been acting, singing, writing and performing music since the age of 7. Both personal and political influences continued to shape this neo-soul phenomenon who made her first public musical debut in 2010 in Houston, TX. She has since collaborated with Houston's hottest producers such as Kalani, Stunt n Dozier and The Producer and has co-written hits with the likes of Avery Callahan, C Dot Bush and many others. Victoria built underground anticipation after the release of her first solo mixtape “Vicki Secrets” in the Fall of 2016. She then went on to release “Love Note” in the Summer of 2019.
HOUSTON, TEXAS
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Jacquingamen Alexander, aka “QuietStorm Lyrical Poet” is an American Hip Hop recording artist, songwriter, and innovator. Born in Houston Tx, raised in (Acres Home). QuietStorm received recognition as a rapper following the debut of his groups release “Alienated Outsidaz” October 2007, while attending Sam Houston State University. Only releasing one album, the group departed and all went individual directions. In 2015, QuietStorm emerged back onto the music scene with “Handwritten Expressions vol.1 and Vol.2. Both projects were solo projects, released on all digital streaming platforms from 2015-2017 (Google Play, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer, YouTube, Spotify, etc). HOUSTON, TEXAS
Quiet Storm LYRICAL POET
With a follow up single “Like That” in 2018 that was performed and was released as a track at “SXSW” 2018 “Peace Poetry & Paint” venue. Providing that “Umph” charisma, funk, soul, grit, passion, stamina, originality and consistent quality as an Emcee” is one reason to lend your ears. As a solo artist it can become overwhelming at times not knowing how to engage with this “new audience” of listeners, especially if you’re not “Dancing or a R&B singer. But as a pure lyricists, my voice, stage presence, storytelling and against the grain content, deems my style into what I call “Poetry Music”. The use of symbolism, irony, rhythm, rhyme and metaphors are a few based foundations of how I create my work. How I view life is executed through a technique that combines spoken word, facts, styles, methods and stimulation that pumps through your veins when the “Beat Drop”.
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HOUSTON, TEXAS
Passion The Lioness POET
I am Danielle Hall aka Passion The Lioness. I have been writing poetry since the age of thirteen. I started performing poetry at the age of nineteen. I'm also a plus size model. I recently started acting as well. I'm very passionate about what I do. I love inspiring people especially young women. I started writing because for a while I was lost in life. I wasn't confident about myself. I began to lose hope. I felt like I didn't belong in this world. Writing gave me confidence. Not only am I helping myself but it lead me to help others like me. My goal is to be known world wide. To not only be a pretty face but to make a difference. I feel that if one wins we all win. I want to be that encouragement for the little girls who believe they aren't good enough. I am dedicated and determined to make my dreams come true. I will continue to make my mark in this industry.
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Michael
OMAHA, NEBRASKA
Barnes ARTIST
In the beginning, Contemporary Fantasy Designs, LLC (CFDesigns) was a mere dream. An idea that started to gain momentum the more Founder & CEO, Michael Barnes, realized the company’s true potential. Starting out as a grunt designer on one of the most popular video game franchise fan sites in that games support-circle, he honed his skills by providing those fans with small banner designs and animations, and eventually became well known for his design style in that community. In the midst of his ascension into staff-hood on that same fan site, he took the pursuit of his dream to the next level. Seeking to quench his thirst for designing technically sound fantasy art, he showed impressive skill in college by picking up on contemporary art styles, and graduated a well sought after freelance graphic designer as a result. It doesn’t stop there however; while existing from the college life, Michael began working briefly for company’s such as Omaha Nightlife, Oriental Trading Company, and where he spent most of his immediate time after college, the Boy Scouts of America (Mid-America Council). Designing everything from simple email banners and boy scout badges, brochures and business cards, to bigger projects such as being responsible for marketing schemes, annual booklets, and everything in between. The most notable product he produced while there was their biggest regional event, a 3.5 million dollar project, The Boy Scouts Popcorn Campaign. As with many freelance designers, Michael continued to acquire multiple projects locally. What gave him the competitive edge was his relationships in the business world, and his aggressive approach towards completing projects with the highest quality available. Some of these projects were such as; The Omaha Riverfront Jazz & Blues Festival, The 100 Black Men of Omaha’s Men of Honor Gala, multiple local political campaigns, and a plethora of small and mid-sized business projects. The unique quality about all this is that he managed to maintain all these relationships while always asking for more.Contemporary Fantasy Designs (CFDesigns) was officially founded in 2011 and is committed to helping great ideas become visible for a person or business through visual communications. We provide a positive understanding of art and technical design that is both professional and entertaining. Drawing inspiration from the limitless possibilities of a dream, we achieve excellence by delivering quality first, and consistently exceeding customer 85 expectations.
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GHOSTED BY: ANONYMOUS JANE
Dating in 2019 is so much harder than before the internet age! Once the world started speed dating on the sites such as Myspace, Facebook, match.com and others, value in relationships went straight down the fiber tubes. The more the days rolled by, the more people click their lives away. Waiting for the next person to log in or change a password! One relationship after another trying to find this so called love in a mixed up world. From my opinion, this generation is lost! Lost to QWERTY keyboard with a touch screen monitor. But yet here I am single and ready to give this day and age a try once again at the dating game. Newly divorced and guarding my heart like a safe full of crisp 100 dollar bills. My girl Monica calls me up and says “you going to meet me at the spot for a drink?” With nothing else to do, I say yes! I find my favorite jeans that make my ass sit up just right, a shirt that says “Boujie” because that is defiantly how I will be acting tonight. As we stroll through the parking lot we hear “Hey lil momma” from across all corners of the field! And yet I laugh because I know I’m not going to ever reply back! We slide through the door and straight to the bar! “Can I have a crown apple on the rocks please” and before I could pay here comes the first sponsor. Monica and I looked at each other and laugh. So many men approached us! One after another, sponsor after sponsor all getting a no, when they asked for my phone number! Monica leans over to me and says, “Why are you so mean?” I say because, I just don’t want to be bothered. She shakes her head at me and laughs. NOW out the corner of my eye, I notice a man, we lock eyes and then look off. Now the clock is ticking 12 and the crown apple has my blood rushing warm! The DJ turns my track on and I let my hair down! Bump bump and 2 turns and Mr. Eyes was right behind me. Now understand that Mr. Eyes was far from my type, but for some reason I liked his energy. He said “what you drinking?” I politely say “nothing”. He started laughing and says yes I saw your fan club members. I smile, laugh and say “well then you saw me turn all of them away.” He just smiles. Now ladies visualize this! Mr. Eyes was about 5’8, clean shaved, brother locs and a face full of freckles! Caramel complexion with a nice body of 185 pounds all muscle. Yummy! His energy was so strong that it snatched me up and I couldn’t wiggle loose. So no need to wonder ladies, of course I gave him my phone number! We spent the next couple of days getting to know each other through several long phone conversations. His occupation kept him in & out of town, and he was getting ready to depart to China. I let him know that it would be really nice to see him before he left. He made no promises, says his good nights and hangs up the phone. Steak night with live music Wednesdays, was my destination for tonight. You can never go wrong with a juicy steak and good music! As you all know me, I walk in and go straight to the bar and ask the bartender “Crown apple on the rocks please.” And as you all can guess it, here comes the men! One says “Hey beautiful”, I reply “Hi sir!” He then says “You know you are blocking traffic with all that ass!” I reply “excuse me sir!” I shake my head grab my drink and walk off. I see a young lady sitting alone at a table by the stage. “Excuse me darling do you mind if I sit with you?” The young lady replies “please sit” I say “girl thank you, the vaulters are out tonight.” We engage in some fantastic conversation, laughing and taking turns buying rounds. The band was jamming my favorite song, “Is it the way” by Jill Scott and out of nowhere I feel an energy enter the room. Mr. 5’8, 185 pounds walks into to the lounge. I know you ladies want to know what his name is, but it really doesn’t matter. All we know is that he looks good and smells fantastic. He walks over to me and gives me a sensual hug. I instantly start to smile and radiant a strong alluring energy. The young lady says “oh this must be the man you told me about, your whole energy just changed.”
Giggling, I reply “yes, this is Q” and run my fingers through his hair! The chemistry between Mr. Q and I could be cut with a knife it was so thick that night! I literally couldn’t keep my hands off of him. The way he smelled and those brother locs were driving me crazy, plus…… The crown apple had me very hot and ready, especially considering the lack of intimacy since the divorce. No matter how much he tried to get me to stop, I just couldn’t stop pressing my lips against his, running my hands through his dreads and pulling him closer to me. He says to me “We going to end up on somebodies social media, if you don’t stop.” To be honest, I really didn’t care. I reach my hands down his pants and grab ahold to what I wanted. From his lips he whispers “man I want to taste you so bad, please get in your car before you never make it home!” He kisses my forehead, closes the door and gets into his car! That was one long ride home….. For the both of us! His plane takes off and I don’t see him for weeks. However we spend countless hours on the phone and sending pictures to each other. Both expressing how much we can’t wait to see one another! And finally after 4 long weeks our days of waiting are over. We have dinner at one of my favorite Mexican restaurants. I watch him eat every bite of his food and drink every sip of his drink. I twirl my fingers threw his hair and play with his ears. After dinner he walks me to my car, feels me up, kisses me down then sends me home. Another night of a cold shower and baby oil, zeesh. A few more days go by and a few more dates take place. Each ending with undeniable chemistry! One Wednesday night Mr. Q says “Baby, you haven’t been to my house yet. I want you to come spend a few nights with me.” Now ladies you damn well know that I threw on some clothes, grabbed my overnight bag, a few changes of clothes and out the door I go. Which part do you want first ladies, the sex, the lust or the love. Let me start with the food he cooked for me. My mind was like if the food tastes the good, he surely must. He grabs my face, kisses my lips and my clothes just fell off. Then the magic begins. Every touch, every stroke, every kiss snatched my soul completely out of my body. He took me on a sexually roller coaster ride filled with 6 rounds and 5 showers. I rose the next morning in a t-shirt and cooking him breakfast. He comes in the kitchen puts me on the counter and says to me “this my breakfast” and proceeds to eat his life away! Day 3 approaches and its time for me to go home. My body was physically drained, my soul snatched and my mind was blown. We walked outside to the car, Mr. Q puts me on the hood of my car and says to me “Before you go, let me put something on your mind!” I’m like oh my not on the hood of the car! He comes up face full of passion, beard full of love, kisses me on lips, puts me in the car and closes the door! Wow what an expedition! Over the next couple of weeks we have dinner dates and several nights filled with passion. We exchange personal stories, life goals and desires. He even manages to make it back in town in time for one of my major events. Mr. Q proceeds to tell how much I inspire him and others and that he is very glad that he met me. He tells me that I am the definition of different. I see Mr. Q a few more times after this. I start to notice a change in communication and me being me called him to the floor about it. He assures me nothing has changed and that he was just going through something. One night while we lay in bed he tells me that he has feeling for me, he holds me extremely tight this night. That was the last night I seen him! We talked a few more times over the next couple of weeks and then Mr. Q disappears! I was left with so many questions and hurt feelings, especially once I realized I had been GHOSTED.
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THE CESSATION OF UNCLE SAM BY: TREVIAN J. HUNTER BRANNON
Kings, Queens & fellow Pirate Lords, keep it trill with Jack Tony, the very first time that you ever heard of the term or phrase ‘government shutdown’, you may have said to yourself: “Say what? How the hell can the ‘GOVERNMENT’ just shut down like that fam? It’s the government for crying out loud!”
Even I, Captain Jack Tony had a simplistic, ignorant way of thinking when it came down to that, but lads, it’s true: there is such a thing as a government shutdown, and it doesn’t just occur here in the United States. It’s happened overseas as well, in the countries of Belgium & the United Kingdom. Shutdowns of a government occurs when no party can form a government, but the nation does not return to the polls, or when the government refuses passage of key bills. It can, but does not always, result in the cessation of some or all operations by the government. Now I won’t compare & contrast the difference between a government shutdown in the U.K. and one right here in The States for time is of the essence and I have a bigger, orange fish to fry and filet up like the sucker that he truly is! Let me take this time out and say, shout out to all my readers, supporters, followers & fans that’s over in the United Kingdom!!! Can one of you please, please DM me information on how to become a citizen of the U.K. I’m trying to get the fuck out of the United States before this bum that holds the highest office in the nation, destroys it. No seriously, if you live in the U.K. or if you’re from the U.K. & you’re reading this right now, if you would please DM me (whether it be via Twitter or Instagram, be sure to send me your address as well and) info on how to become a citizen over in the U.K. & for those of you that do DM me, Captain Jack Tony BKA King JSTA will personally ship you something special in the mail, ya dig??! Now check this out: Government shutdowns here in America are caused when there is a failure to pass a funding legislation to finance the government for its next fiscal year or a temporary funding measure. Ever since that 1980 breakdown of the 1884 Antideficiency Act and all that shit is is a "lapse (a fuckin’ delay) of appropriation" due to a political impasse on proposed appropriation bills requires that the US federal government curtail agency activities and services, close down non-essential operations furlough non-essential workers, and only retain essential employees in departments covering the safety of human life and/or protection of property. Shutdowns can also occur within and disrupt state, territorial, and local levels of government. As of April 13, 2019, since the enactment of the US government's current budget and appropriations process in 1976, there have been a total of 22 funding gaps in the federal budget, of which 10 of these have led to federal employees being furloughed (laid off). Prior to 1980, funding gaps did not lead to government shutdowns, until Attorney General Benjamin Civiletti issued a legal opinion requiring the government be shut down when a funding gap occurs. This opinion was not consistently adhered to through the 1980s, but since 1990 all funding gaps lasting longer than a few hours have led to a shutdown. Some of the most significant shutdowns in U.S. history have included the 21-day shutdown of 1995– 1996 during the Bill Clinton administration over opposition to major spending cuts;
the 16-day shutdown in 2013 during the Barack Obama administration caused by a dispute over implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and the 35-day shutdown of 2018-2019 during Putin’s Bottom Harlot’s administration, the longest shutdown in US history, which was essentially over the funding over this Wall that’s not going to keep any TRUE credible threats out of the United States, the real threat to our national security and the core values which makes this nation great is well deep within the United States at 725 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10022. Whenever there’s a government shutdown that’s taking place, it affects just about every essential part of our lives as Americans.For example, let’s say that you’ve saved up all your coins for a vacation and now you getting ready to hop on that plane & take that flight, right? Well my fellow Pirate Lord, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is one of the government agencies affected by the shutdown. TSA workers are required to continue working through the shutdown, but they’re not getting no coins! Plus, TSA agents are increasingly taking sick days rather than reporting to work without being paid. So, if you ever trying to get “flewed out” during the shutdown, arrive at the airport early enough to deal with long lines and delays at screening points. “But JSTA, surely getting our Income Tax (refund) won’t be affected, right?” Oh, that gets jeopardized too, pimp! The IRS is another government agency currently affected by any government shutdown. While everyone will still be required to file their Federal taxes on time, there may be considerable & ridiculous delays before the IRS finally kicks out your issue! Additionally, since so many of its employees are laid off, it may take longer to get questions answered or get any other kind of assistance from the IRS during any shutdown. It’s crazy isn’t it? An individual’s food stamps can potentially run out, our great national parks that provides majestic views and good memories closes shop. And to think, that a big orange crybaby, whining about getting the necessary funds to build a Wall that isn’t going to keep a damn thing out of this country caused the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history, but he eventually signed that bill to temporarily reopen & inevitably, keep the government open didn’t he? Democrats put that pressure on his ass for as long as they could jack! Jackass really think this great Wall that he had shut down the government for is going to keep vices out of this country?? Just sometime ago, U.S. Customs & Border Protection seized approximately 3,200 pounds of cocaine (worth $77 million on the streets) on a ship originating from South America in what officials said is the largest illicit drugs seizure at the ports of New York & New Jersey since 1994. Who knows, Donald Trump himself may have tried to have that much cocaine shipped to him personally; we all know that politicians, Senators & Congressmen are the biggest supporters and buyers of drugs in the history of this country, how you think the shit gets in the ghettos, in the inner cities, the low-income areas and so on. The cessation of Uncle Sam is not a time to panic, it’s not a time to live in fear of the unknown, it’s more importantly, a time to be braggadocious about your faith in a Higher Power that transcends every and ALL governments, a time to hoist those colours proudly & by Grace, with the strength of your back alone, press forward, press on lads! Government open or government closed, we will not faint, we shall be stand tall in the storm, besides we’ve all have faced worse in our lives than some government shutting down. We are pirate lords, rulers over our own seas, heave ho…never shall we die.
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HOUSTON, TX HAIR STYLIST: SAMANTHA WILLIAMS, TRUESTYLIST SALON
91
HOUSTON, TX HAIR STYLIST: TAMEA KAYE, TRUESTYLIST SALON
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HOUSTON, TX BARBER: JASON GRAVES, HEAVENLY HANDS BARBER & BEAUTY LOUNGE
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HOUSTON, TX
96
DURHAM,NC
97
Tribute
TO NECIA JONES
Dear Friend, The day I got the call that you were in your last days, took my breath away! Your heart was made of pure gold! You were a giver and a fighter. You truly believed in people and your were never afraid to let them know it. I could call you up at any, time day or night and you were there. You went through some of my hardest times in life. Always reassuring me that things would get better. You introduced me to so many people, you were a bringer of people to unite.
Losing you was hard! Writing this letter to you is even harder! I can still hear your voice saying to me "lets get these coins, friend." You are a phenomenal woman, one that will be missed greatly. The first to sign up to be a writer in this very magazine, the first to order the purse in the background from me. You are simply the First...... You leave behind beautiful kids, loving family and supportive friends. I will never forget you. Rest Easy Angle
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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019
ISSUE 4
#DOITFORTHEBLOOD
SICKLE CELL
AWARENESS MONTH
Featured Model
Rated
Roxy Perez
BOUJIE
ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE
