Golden Publication Magazine

-Golden Publication is designed for this millennium,

focusing on accentuating the very best in femininity. Our

articles and features seek to inspire, motivate, and

advance women in the areas of health, beauty, business,

and finance all being important in the development of the

greater you. We delve in the areas of love, hope, and

faith, even touching those taboo subjects other

magazines refuse to discuss. We embrace sisterhood

and the power of unity, understanding our prime

positioning women have in today's society, it’s important

we learn to use this advantage wisely through sharing our

cumulative knowledge and wisdom with women

everywhere which is the very intent of our Publication.

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Jaymee Harrison “Strong Heart”

By, Amanda Nicole

On July 23, 2010 I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I

was told she was perfectly healthy and it was one of the

happiest days of my life. 3 months later the following

October we went to the doctor for a regular checkup and

her doctor was concerned with how fast her heart was

beating. She scheduled an appointment with a cardiologist

just to be safe. Jaymee was 3 months old and she seemed

perfectly fine so as a mother I didn’t let myself get worked

up about it. I honestly felt like it was a false alarm, but

just like any mother would I went to the appointment. The

doctors decided to do an echocardiogram (an ultrasound

of the heart). As the nurse was doing the echo I noticed a

change in her demeanor. She immediately got up and

went to get the doctor. He came in, examined the echo

for a few minutes and the he looked at me and told me

very calmly that Jaymee has a heart condition and would

need an open heart surgery in order to live. At that

moment it was as if my entire world came tumbling down

all at once. You know it happens all the time, you know

it’s possible, but as a mother you never think it can happen

to your child. I stood there fighting to hold my composure

with tears running down my face. A million thoughts

running through my mind at the same time I couldn’t keep

it in any longer. I broke down and I prayed. I asked God

to fix this, I asked why what have I done, I asked so many

questions. The doctor made an appointment for Jaymee at

Texas Children’s Hospital Cardiology.

Jaymee was diagnosed with complete atrioventricular

canal defect (CAVC). The definition according to

www.heart.org is a large hole in center of the heart

affecting all four chambers where they would normally be

divided. When a heart is properly divided, the oxygen-

rich blood from the lungs does not mix with the oxygen-

poor blood from the body. A CAVC allows blood to mix

and the chambers and valves to not properly route the

blood to each station of circulation. They did Jaymee’s

surgery on May 31, 2012. It was the longest day of my

life. All the doctors, all the sick babies, all the other

worried parents are images I will never be able to get out

of my mind. Having the feeling of not knowing what’s

going to happen after they take your child from you is a

feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone... I was scared... And

I'm not afraid to say it... I found out who my real friends

were and who really cared about me. We stayed in the

hospital for almost two weeks due to a few complications.

Jaymee had to have a blood transfusion, due to excessive

blood loss, she also experienced pneumothorax, which

they treated by giving her more oxygen.

Our last day in the hospital the doctor came back and said

that one of the valves in her heart had started to slowly

bleed out again. I cried instantly for my child because I

can't imagine as a mother putting her back through that

again... But to be honest she was stronger than I was and

she held me together. Jaymee is an amazing kid and

doesn’t let anything hold her back. I think the surgery

made her a much stronger person. Today Jaymee takes

medicine to monitor her blood pressure so that she doesn’t

bleed out too much but I let her be a normal kid.

Jamyee gets to do gymnastics, dance and cheerleading all,

which she loves and we just watch her close for any signs

that something may be wrong. She keeps all her doctor

visits and she knows her own limitations. She has not let

her struggles hold her back at all!!! She’s an amazing

child who is stronger than most adults and I love her so

much.

Editors comments: Jaymee is currently healthy and

strong. She is a freelance children’s Model for Golden

Publication Magazine as well as a cheerleader. She also

participates in gymnastics. She is a strong little girl that

has captured my heart. You can follow Jaymee’s progress

and her sister Amiyah on Instragam @jaymee_amiyah

I’m so nervous! This is the day that I have been waiting for since my teenage years. It’s September 26th, 2014 and I am at First Hospital waiting for the surgery to begin. I am shaking inside; trying to put on a brave face for my mother, my husband, my son and all of my supporters who have spent countless hours talking to me about the benefits of the surgery. My mind is flooded with questions such as, "Will I be okay? How will they look? Is the pain really bad?" And then it happened. "Kerisha Mark!" the intake person yells and at this moment, my heart drops. I start to pray and my journey to my “new normal” begins.

Countless days I lived in agony from the weight of my breasts; from the backaches, muscle spasms, chronic headaches, numbness in both arms, tingling in both arms and the crushing weight on my chest from falling asleep on my back. Yes, my sides were my best

friends. I will never forget the time that I thought I was having a heart attack. I panicked and drove myself to the emergency room where they pumped me with aspirin, only to find out that I pulled a muscle in my chest wall

when I removed my bra. Or the time when I went to see my neurologist because I had a migraine for three straight weeks only to be told that maybe if I considered getting a breast reduction, it would take the pressure off of the nerve. I was prescribed medications of all kinds to help with the pain, from muscle relaxers to seizure medication for my headaches. Nothing seemed to relieve me, but I was determined not to go under the knife. Fear had taken over and - as a matter of fact - it consumed me. I would cry about the way I looked behind closed doors, but I would put on a full suit of armor to face the world. Sure, I was confident, but it was the agony of knowing that once I reached my destination, the whole conversation of my breasts would begin. I knew that I was a 36NNN, but the world reminded me daily that I was different. The constant stares, the insults and just wondering if I chose the right outfit would haunt me all the time. I would buy larger tops as well as garments that stretch and cardigans were my all-time favorite. I did a great job of masking the pain mentally and physically.

Then, the day came when I noticed a lump under my arm. I was really frightened and

scared that it was cancer, but I made the appointment and awaited my results. As the day grew closer to find out, I told no one because at last this would be my opportunity to get the surgery and now I had a real reason other than vanity, so I thought to go forward. "The results are in, Mrs. Mark. What a relief!" the nurse says. "It’s only breast tissue that had nowhere else to go." The time had come for me to do something. I was over the pain, the embarrassment and just the sheer fact that my breasts had controlled my life for the last time.

I had talked to several friends about the surgery and everyone had encouraged me and given me the names of their

doctors, but one person stuck out in my mind and it was Jordan Dixon. I reached out to her because she too had suffered some of the things I was going through. You see, Jordan had

Photo provided by J.Golden Photography

Debbie Porter Photography

given me the name of her doctor (Dr. Franklin Rose) three years prior but I was scared, confused and had been denied by my insurance before. It wasn’t until I heard the same doctor's name again that I solidified my decision. I know, right? So many people, so many doctors, but this was a big decision for me. I went to visit Dr. Rose and (to my surprise) he was in pure shock when he saw me for the first time. He couldn’t believe I was able to carry that amount of weight on my chest with my small body frame. He asked several questions and decided he would take care of the surgery and also threw out the idea of contacting the media. I wasn’t concerned about the media; I was just shocked that someone wanted to help me. Dr. Rose scheduled the surgery as soon as possible but the fact that he had never operated on someone my size in over 30 years of practice (and he mentioned that I suffered from a rare condition called “Gigantomastia”)resonated with me. I had heard of the word before because my husband and I had researched the condition and (to my amazement) I looked like one of the women in the pictures.

Gigantomastia is a rare medical condition that consists of breast connective tissue. Its indicator is breast weight that exceeds 3% of a person’s body weight. This condition caused my breasts to grow excessively at a rapid rate. I went from a 36H cup to an alarming 36NNN in a matter of three years. I

assumed that it was from a sudden weight gain and (unlike others) I gained my weight in my breasts. That was partly true, but unbeknownst to me it was due to a hormonal imbalance. It is easy to blame everything on genetics, but as women we must learn our bodies and start to take notice when things are changing. As women, we have learned to suffer in silence, but if you can relate to my story or have any symptoms mentioned above, you must seek professional help. Start to report and record all symptoms and research doctors that are educated in this field. Ask a ton of questions about your recovery time and how long the actual surgery is, and get family members to dedicate time to help you once you start your journey. Doctors will write letters on your behalf to ensure that you receive the best care and that you are recommended to the top medical professionals to obtain the best results. Remember that it can also take a toll on your mind as well. We only think of the physical change, but mentally (when you have a surgery where your entire look changes) it can affect you. It affected me because I was not used to looking down and not really seeing my breasts. It was like a bad/good divorce; I missed them but wanted them gone at the same time. My urge to shop left me because I wasn’t mentally prepared for the small clothes or the reaction from others.

At 10:30 a.m., I was being prepped for surgery; the

news crew was in the room, my loved ones, my son, my husband and Dr. Rose. I made up an excuse to go to the bathroom and on my knees I went. The tears began to flow and the prayer started out like this: “Lord, please let this surgery go well and guide the surgeon's hands. Please let this surgery be a blessing for me and please let it inspire others in a good way. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen." Boy did my prayers get answered because I have never felt so good in my life. It was the best decision that I ever made and I am so grateful that I had such a strong support system of family and friends who loved me enough to pray for me and push me toward the pending goal I had on my list for years.

I can finally say, "Goal accomplished."

J.Golden Photography

Breast Cancer Survivor

Story:

Bonnie

Mitchell

Sharing my story as a four time breast cancer

survivor was not a consideration at this time last

year, but then I was asked to do so as an

encouragement to others. In 1985 was when my

fight had truly begun when I learned that I was

diagnosed with SLE (Systemic Lupus

Erythematosus), a mysterious autoimmune disease

in which the body’s immune system mistakenly

attacks healthy tissue. This coupled with the news

that my body had been further assaulted in the form

of breast cancer was devastating. Either of these

conditions are debilitating but being forced to

accept this while getting back into the swing of

motherhood 18 years after my first child was born

required strength I did not know I had. My husband

and I were raising our 4 year old daughter while I

dealt with trying to address my Lupus flares. Times

became difficult when flares sent me to the hospital.

It was heartbreaking, that this disease was changing

me on the outside and I was becoming

unrecognizable to my own family. The cancer added

another layer of concern as I struggled to accept it.

But through it all, my husband, mother and son

were there to assist with my medical needs and

caring for my daughter Kara.

I was always the woman who was proactive

about my health. I had a routine mammogram

which I just knew would be just that, routine. But

my life changed drastically when it was much more

than that. I was told that I had carcinoma insitu. To

be frank, I was not familiar with the terminology so,

being the researcher that I am I wanted to know

exactly what that meant. I remember going to the

computer typing “carcinoma insitu” in the search

box. All was blurred when I saw CANCER! I

remember yelling out to my mother, “Ma! I got

cancer!”

How? Why? Those were my questions. The doctor

ordered a biopsy and with the results he said that it

could be monitored. He was rather nonchalant

about it. I was so devastated and frankly disgusted

that a medical professional would be so heartless

and cold in giving this type information to a patient.

Needless to say, I took my records so that I could get

another opinion. I refused to listen and trust the

opinion of the previous doctor.

I contacted my Houston rheumatologist

who was treating me for Lupus and rheumatoid

arthritis and he referred me to two of his colleagues,

an Oncologist and a surgeon. He immediately called

both and I was seen within a week. The

overwhelming concern was like night and day from

what I received prior. After much consideration it

was the consensus that I would have a partial

mastectomy and auxiliary node dissection and thirty

two lymph nodes were removed but the cancer had

not spread. Some of the best information that I

received from my doctor was of a personal nature.

He advised me to never allow anyone physician or

lay person to minimize my health concerns. At the

end of the day I directed my treatment. I was

encouraged by my rheumatologist, he had become

a trusted counselor and friend. Accolades go to him

for his support and the very knowledgeable and

caring specialist that he referred me to.

While trying to understand the seriousness

of my health issue I was trying to cope, accept and

grieve the death of my only son just months prior. I

was struggling emotionally at this point in my life. I

was crying myself to sleep, when I would wake, and

during the day. I was an emotional wreck. I

remember snapping at my mother saying that she

didn’t understand what it felt like to lose a child,

when indeed she had; she had that experience with

the demise of my brother not many years before.

Seems I was never going to stop the grieving

process, but I had to get up and fight for my life and

not let the diagnosis of breast cancer take over me.

Over the next few years, I continued routine

mammograms every six months, but in 2002,

unusual findings were discovered and the cancer

had returned in the same breast. However, I opted

for a complete mastectomy; no questions asked.

This time, I couldn’t question it, be angry and

depressed because there simply was no time.

People often ask, even to this day, “How did your

husband feel?” Why did you not have

reconstruction? And politely but in true Bonnie

Mitchell style my response is “these are not his

breasts and not his body.” My husband, whom I

love dearly never once, questioned my decision but

was supportive and it never changed how he felt

about who I am and what I mean to him.

About this time my mother suffered a

massive stroke. This was the second stroke and it

did much damage in that there was paralysis and her

speech was impaired. Even though I knew I had not

fully recovered from surgery, I had to get up and

with the minimal strength I had would need to care

for my mother. I was determined to get well so that

I could maintain my role as her primary caretaker.

My husband and niece were there also to aid in

caretaking. My daughter, Kara was away at college,

but during her visits home, she helped her

grandmother as well. These were some of the most

trying years. There were days when I was physically

weak, overwhelmed emotionally, and said I couldn’t

do it anymore. After years of caring for my mother

in our home, it hurt so deeply but I had no choice

but to admit her to a facility as the Lupus flares were

and arthritis had begun to take a toll on my body.

In 2006 my mother passed away. The pain

of losing a parent then is no comparison to physical

pain. However, I knew that God had not given up on

me and that I had a story to share of His goodness.

After my routine mammograms and oncology visits,

I was a proud seven year survivor of breast cancer.

Sadly my seven year survivorship came to an end

and in 2008 cancer was discovered in the other

breast. I elected to have a lumpectomy, continued

monitoring and did not allow it to beat me.

While living and loving life, I still had to battle

Lupus with a smile even though the days seemed

too much to bear. I had to try different medications

such as anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and pain

pills as I continue to fight. In 2014 I was cancer free

for six years. My daughter was not in agreement

with my decision to leave the physicians in

Houston as she still had animosity from the early

days of diagnosis. I sought doctors here in

Beaumont and again she was supportive. In April of

this same year during the mammogram, ultra

J.Golden Photography

sound, and biopsy I would have to hear the word

cancer for a fourth time and surgery was performed

in May. My faith in God never wavered. Kara had a

difficult time accepting my diagnosis but I knew that

I had to keep her lifted and focused. I am so thankful

for her being so attentive during this time. When

she was unable to travel for the consultations she

demanded to be face timed. She was however, with

me for the surgery and treatments.

These treatments were new to me and they

were tiring, tedious and overwhelming. I was

terrified, but I kept going. My husband and

daughter were with me every day, all day and never

left my side. Even in the midst of this time they were

planning a surprise dinner to celebrate my turning

70 years old. The outpouring of love and support

not only from them, but my family (from near and

far) and many friends I received was unmeasurable.

On October 1st I read Kara’s post on face

book post said “Today kicks off breast cancer

awareness month. This is special month for me

because of my mother. Many know that she was a

three time survivor over the years. But there are

many who don’t know she is now a FOUR time

survivor. She amazed me of how much of a fighter

she is and she still kept her head up even though I

couldn’t say the same. She was encouraging me and

it was supposed to be the other way around. You

never know how strong you really are until it’s time

for you to take care of your parents. I am thankful

that she is still here, cancer free once again and able

to share her story.” God is good!!!”

I am no longer in treatment but I am

monitored closely and on a regiment of oral anti-

cancer drugs. I am also thankful that Kara was

tested due to my history and there were no

mutations detected. This means that the

abnormalities believed to be responsible for

hereditary susceptibility to cancer have been ruled

out. I give all praise and honor to God. He has

brought me through so many times and not because

I’ve been so good and kept his commandments but

by His grace and mercy. I encourage all women to

be proactive towards early detection and

treatments.

Bonnie Mitchell & Daughter Kara Mitchell

Donovan Ross

“FASHION SAVANT”

Have you ever thought about your purpose and

how it impacts your life? Born on August 6, 1974 in

Houston, Texas. I was the youngest of four. My love for

fitness unlike fashion came at very young age. Living in

South Park (Sunnyside) Houston, Texas my mother made

it a point for us to be active in sports. Although my

Mother and stepfather did not have the time nor the

financial resources to place me and my siblings in

organized sports we knew that we were not like the

average kids in the neighborhood. My siblings and I

would compete with other children at any and

everything that had something to do with sports.

However, when it rained or I was wasn’t allowed to go

outdoors, I would find refuge in Art.

My brother and I would watch Saturday morning

cartoons and would draw what we saw on the television.

However, when there were no more cartoons we would

wait for the T.V show Soul Train to come on. Watching

them dance down the Soul Train line we would look at

the outfits they wore and get excited. The Dancers on

Soul train and the way our fancy and oh so fabulous

Mother dressed opened my eyes to a whole new world.

Yet, I still wasn’t interested into fashion.

On Sundays we would visit my grandfather who

would always tell my brothers and me how important it

was for young men to look clean. He also said as we get

older, we need to own suits and ties. My grandfather

would take my brothers and me into his room and show

us his suit, tie and shoe collection. My grandfather was

from Louisiana and traveled often, many times to New

Orleans. He would say, “Real men know how to stay

clean and dress”.

As the years went by I saw how my siblings

invested both time and money into their image and I

began to observe the attention that they were getting

especially my brother, who was or thought he was a

fashion icon. Throughout the years my family battled

through both drug and alcohol addictions. We moved

around a great deal. Eventually, I moved with my

grandmother. While living with my grandmother she

would tell me stories on how both my biological father

and grandfather were the two cleanest men around. My

mother would confirm the story and always add the

statement “Clean shoes, clean teeth and clean clothes

makes for a good man.”

We didn’t have the financial means to purchase

what we wanted via fashion, so I took the hand me

downs from my brothers and started creating my look.

My sister had a summer job and would tell me “Frog

(nickname) you should dress better, because it just looks

better. Being that my sister and I were only 10 months

apart, her friends were my friends, so I listened.

Stylist Donovan Ross, Photos by J.Golden Photography

By the time I

became a junior in high

school, image became

vitally important and I got

into the fashion scene

(Cross Colors, Addidas,

Jordans, and etc.) Now

that I was senior I had the

desire to become a

Designer and my dream

was to get into either

Savannah College of Art

and Design located in

Savannah, Georgia or stay here and attend The Art

Institute of Houston (AIH).

My continued education was a must for me,

however, the money was scarce and I had an important

decision to make. I decided to join the military. However,

I didn’t want to join any service branch I wanted to join

what was considered the best. Therefore, I joined the

United States Marine Corps. I liked the Marine Corps

because I can look sharp in uniform, stay fit, travel the

World, and last but not least pay for my own education.

This was perfect. In June 93’ I joined in The U. S. Marine

Corps. I remained in The U. S. Marine Corps for 20yrs.

Throughout that time I traveled to over 10 countries,

multiple states, but most importantly I was able to see

fashion from different aspects, demographics, cultures.

I started taking notes (before cell phones,

internet, Google etc.) on the different styles that I saw

rather I liked or disliked them. I stayed into fashion and

even took on a second job working at Ralph Lauren

where I obtained the love of being neat and organized.

While working there we had a dress code, much like the

military where as we had to were Ralph Lauren/Polo

products.

Throughout my career in the military I received

orders to train Reservists in my hometown. I returned to

Houston, Texas in April 2006. My return to Houston

meant that I could follow my passion and enroll into the

AIH, so I did. Although I was following my dream to

attend school, I still wasn’t pursuing my purpose. I

enrolled into school but not into the Fashion program it

was for Interior Design. I was super excited about

starting my classes. Due to military commitments I was

unable to complete my studies.

After multiple moves, missions and operations I

decided to step out on Faith and pursue my passion(s) of

both obtaining a degree in Art as well as being a Fitness

Trainer. In November. 29 2012, I decided that it was time

to have Faith and allow God to order my steps, and He

did just that. I quickly enrolled into the International

Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) and after multiple

conversations with my Mother, close friends and

relatives I retired from the U. S. Marine Corps.

Exactly one month after I retired my mother

passed away and I could her saying “Real men trust in

God, take care of themselves, their families and stay

sharp both physically and mentally”. Therefore I decided

that I was going to begin by making difference to both

self and others.

Although it was difficult and somewhat extreme

I remained enrolled into both the ISSA program and the

Art Institute of Houston. I enrolled in AIH Jan 2014, but

this time under the Design and Technical Graphics

program which quickly changed it Fashion Design. After

multiple sessions of pressed palms and scratched knees I

was given the answer and the vision. I decided to merge

my two Worlds and get the same results, which were

peace and purpose. After 20+ years I was finally right

where I need to be and at the right time. I was pursuing

my purpose and walking in Faith.

Cultivating Courage

Houston area organization ‘Cultivate Courage Project’ empowering women and spreading the message of hope

By, April Treadwell

When Lisa Denae, R&B singer and founder of The Cultivate Courage

project, reached out to her friends on social media asking for volunteers for a

campaign she had in mind, she had no idea what an outpouring of love she would

receive. One connection, in particular, being a close friend.

Latonya Kizzee, native Houstonian and retiree, felt a tugging at her heart

to be of service to others. Lisa’s call for help with this project would be an answered

prayer for both women. Kizzee, Program Director of Cultivate Courage, has always

felt that helping people who are distressed was her true calling in life. “I am very

passionate about assisting others to change a bad situation into a positive one.”

Kizzee enjoys empowering others through motivating them to find courage from

within.

Cultivate Courage was born of Lisa’s desire to help herself as well as

through her utilizing her gift for writing as a form of release. “After having my

children, I discovered that in order to break the cycle of violence in my life, I had to

deal with my past once and for all.” Lisa began to write in her journal. “When I wrote,

it gave me a sense of freedom. I understood that this story is mine and I don’t have

to hide it. I don’t have to be ashamed of it. I can use my story to help someone

else.” This led to Lisa’s first published work: ‘The Cultivate Courage Journal’. This

journal is meant to be used to give hope to domestic violence victims with its

inspirational quotes, as well as be used as a tool for journaling their own thoughts

and stories to help inspire the courage to overcome.

Along with Kizzee, Lisa launched the ’65 in 365’ campaign. “In this

campaign we will visit 65 domestic violence shelters in 365 days to offer hope,

encouragement and love to the women and children residing there.” However, for

Lisa and Latonya, it isn’t just about spreading the message, it is also their goal to

help women to rebuild. “I want to show these women that, not only can they survive

but they can thrive!” Lisa states with a sparkle in her eyes. As part of the campaign,

they will be speaking, as well as giving domestic violence shelter residents copies of

‘The Cultivate Courage Journal’.

These women are reaching out to shelters in order to fulfill their campaign’s

goals, but are also taking requests. If your shelter or organization would like to be a

part of the 65 in 365 campaign, they would like to hear from you! “Confidentiality is

extremely important to us. We will never give out information about specifics of

shelters we visit, their locations nor information about any of the women and children

we come in contact with.” states Latonya. For more information or to find out how

you can help Cultivate Courage you may contact:

LaTonya Kizzee, Program Director

Email latonyakizzee@yahoo.com

Phone: (832) 892-7676

Image by Don Mills

Brian K. Walker, founder of Brian Keith

Productions, is one of Houston’s most creative and

innovative Celebrity Event Producers. Brian has brought

his considerable talents to corporate and high-end social

events. In addition, he has lent his expertise to an array

of fall festivals, premier fashion and hair shows, and

weddings. With over 10 years of experience in event

planning, Brian brings his own unique sense of style and

his knowledge of the latest industry trends to each event

he presents. His seasoned, youthful and dynamic team of

professionals collaborates to seamlessly make each

event an unforgettable experience.

He credits his business success to his sensitivity

to his clients’ needs and his desire to make every event

an unforgettable experience.

Brian Keith Productions business clients include:

M.E.N. Inc., Let The Fashion’s Begin; Men of Style,

Breast Cancer Survivor Make-Over Photo Shoot;

Celebration of Life, Pop Recording Artist; Kat St. John,

Fidelity National Title Agency, Gospel Recording Artist;

Regina Murff, ALC Church, NFL Offensive Tackle; Russell

Okung, Author; Dorothy Okung and Author; Kim Bady

just to name a few.

Brian has also had the opportunity to work with

Dwight Eubanks; Housewives of Atlanta, Funky Larry

Jones; Majic 102, JJ Simmons; 97.9 The Box, Vivica A.

Fox; Actress/Producer, LAMIK Beauty and The

International Risotto Festival amongst other’s.

Brian Keith and Brian Keith Productions have

been featured in Beautifully Said Magazine and Houston

Style Magazine.

At Brian Keith Productions, their goal is to make

each clients’ “dream a reality.”

Website: www.briankeithproductions.com

Email: Info@briankeithproductions.com

Phone: 281-739-9399

Social Media: Facebook – Brian Keith Productions

Photography by Priceless Photos

Photography by LeWebster Lacy

Karen Gooden Pazazz Accessories & Handbags has officially

been in business for approximately one year. Karen was

actually introduced to the Traci Lynn Accessories

collection over three years ago at the Houston Black

Expo. Karen was initially only interested in the distinct

fashion accessories and eventually became interested in

becoming a consultant. Notable facts are that Traci Lynn

Accessories are bold and comprised of cubic zirconia,

Austrian crystals and rhodium plating and price point

that ranges from $28.00 through $60.00. Traci Lynn is

also a black owned business with consultants throughout

the US and also a member of the DSA (Direct Selling

Association). This line of accessories is extremely

popular on the East Coast as the owner, designer and

CEO is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Karen currently does vendor events, fashions shows,

catalog sales and in home parties featuring Traci Lynn

fashion jewelry. Traci Lynn offers a full line of

accessories to compliment any women’s business or

casual attire. Everyone that you meet is your potential

customer and wearing your jewelry is your easiest selling

tactic. If you choose to join Traci Lynn you can work the

business as a full time consultant or part time. If you

choose to host an in home party or catalog party you can

earn free accessories.

You can view the line of accessories via

www.tracilynnjewelry.net/14400. If you have questions

regarding a specific item please contact Karen Gooden

via 281-799-1176. Access to the private Facebook group

“Pazazz Accessories & Handbags” is available upon

request.

Bullying Ends Now!!!My name is Olevia Henderson,

founder/CEO of

B.E.N. (Bullying Ends Now)

I'm a mother of seven - five girls and two boys.

My family moved to Houston, Texas over 8 years ago

from Shreveport, Louisiana. It was a good judgment call

for my kids’ education-wise and job stability for myself.

Since being in Texas, a lot has happened - some good and

some bad - I believe the worst being November 19th,

2013 when my daughter was lured to the apartments by

our home and viciously attacked and beaten by a so-

called friend. That assault was recorded by

a group of kids and the video of my daughter being

punched in the face and kicked in the eye went viral. As

a mother, no one wants to see their child hurt. My

daughter thought of these girls as friends as they had

been to our home and hung out together, but who knew

that she would become a victim of bullying from

different levels? See, from that video, she was not only

bullied and made fun of in the neighborhood, but she

was cyber-bullied as well and called all kinds of names by

kids and adults. All this because a young man bought my

daughter some candy and her friend liked him which

made her feel betrayed. The Bullying has gotten to be

on another level because my daughter has been

mocked online; in schools; by local rappers, celebrities

and even comedians joined in making fun of the assault.

She was forced to leave school and attend home

schooling. Still to this day I ask myself, "What did

someone find funny about that?" My child was hurt and

could have lost her eyesight. I knew I had to do

something. I stayed on the police and the DA. We did

many television interviews, one being with the

Huffington Post. I did not stop until she was arrested and

justice was served. However, I ask the question daily,

"Was justice served?" I felt it wasn't because she only

received 2 years' probation and had to attend anger

management classes, but she didn't have to apologize for

her choices or actions. Now, the other young lady that

actually lured my daughter there was never arrested or

charged even when she admitted to her part. I knew this

was only a slap on the wrist, so I knew I needed to do

more. I have started my paperwork to become a

501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation, but in the meantime

B.E.N. (Bullying Ends Now) will continue to help those in

the community. Our goal is to bring awareness and

solutions to end this problem. Many are blinded by this,

but here are some proven facts about bullying in America

(taken from nobullying.com*):

Bullying is a problem in U.S. schools, but just how

much of a problem is it? The latest bullying statistics of

2014 reflect bullying in “real life,” as well as cyber

bullying. The numbers related to any bullying statistics

are both shocking and disheartening. According to the

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS)

anti-bullying website, Stopbullying.gov, bullying is

defined as “intentionally aggressive, usually repeated”

verbal, social or physical behavior aimed at a specific

person or group of people. Some bullying actions are

considered criminal (such as harassment or hazing), but

“bullying” alone is not illegal and recent news stories

abound with tales of cyber-bullying – where the target is

harassed through social media or other technology – that

have unfortunately resulted in victims’ suicides. The

majority of bullying still takes place at school; one in

three U.S. students say they have been bullied at school,

according to the DHHS. More shocking bullying statistics

for 2014 follow:

According to a UCLA psychology study, bullying

boosts the social status and popularity of middle school

students. Psychologists studied 1,895 students at 11

middle schools, where students were asked to name the

students who were considered the “coolest." According

to Jaana Juvonen, the lead author of the study, “The

ones who are (cool) bully more”

• Twenty percent of U.S. students in grades 9-12

reportedly have experienced bullying or are feeling

bullied, while 28 percent of students in grades 6-12

report the same. Experts agree that most incidences of

bullying occur during middle school.

• According to one study cited by the DHHS, 29.3 percent

of middle school students had experienced bullying in

the classroom; 29 percent experienced it in hallways or

lockers; 23.4 percent were bullied in the cafeteria; 19.5

percent were bullied during gym class and 12.2 percent

of bullied kids couldn't even escape the torture in the

bathroom.

• Most of the students in the study reported name-

calling as the most prevalent type of bullying, followed

by teasing, rumor-spreading, physical incidents,

purposeful isolation, threats, belongings being stolen

and sexual harassment. Surprisingly, cyber-bullying

occurred with the least frequency.

• 70.6 percent of teens have seen bullying occurring in

their schools – and approximately 30 percent of young

people admit to bullying themselves. With so many

students seeing what goes on, one has to wonder why

bullying proliferates – especially since the DHHS reports

that bullying stops within 10 seconds 57 percent of the

time when someone intervenes. Juvonen found in her

study that “a simple message, such as ‘Bullying is not

tolerated,’ is not likely to be very effective” and that

effective anti-bullying programs need to focus on the

bystanders who can step in and stop the behavior.

Unfortunately, children and teens who are

considered “different” from their peers are the most

frequent targets of bullies and are constantly bullied.

Special needs students; lesbian, gay, bisexual and

transgender (LGBT) students; students who are

overweight and students who are perceived as “weak”

are the most likely targets of bullying by others. Nine out

of ten LGBT youth report being verbally bullied because

of their sexual orientation, while 55.2 percent of those

students reported being cyber-bullied. Of special needs

students who report bullying, the majority of those who

are victimized are students diagnosed with Asperger’s

syndrome and students with attention deficit

hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Our kids are starting to feel that now they have

nowhere to turn and no one to help so they feel that

taking their life is their only option. In recent years, a

series of bullying-related suicides in the US and across

the globe have drawn attention to the connection

between bullying and suicide. Though too many adults

still see bullying as "just part of being a kid," it is a serious

problem that leads to many negative effects for victims

including suicide. Many people may not realize that

there is also a link between being a bully and committing

suicide. The statistics on bullying and suicide are

alarming:

• Suicide is the third leading cause of death among

young people, resulting in about 4,400 deaths per year

according to the CDC. For every suicide among young

people, there are at least 100 suicide attempts. Over 14

percent of high school students have considered suicide

and almost 7 percent have attempted it.

• Bullying victims are between 2 to 9 times more likely

to consider suicide than non-victims, according to studies

by Yale University

• A study in Britain found that at least half of suicides

among young people are related to bullying

• Ten to 14-year-old girls may be at even higher risk for

suicide, according to the study above.

• According to statistics reported by ABC News, nearly

30 percent of students are either bullies or victims of

bullying and 160,000 kids stay home from school every

day because of fear of bullying.

Bullying-related suicide can be connected to any

type of bullying including physical bullying, emotional

bullying, cyber bullying and sexting or circulating

suggestive or nude photos or messages about a person.

This is why I feel my foundation will make a

difference. Our plans are to educate parents and kids as

to what to do in the event of being bullied and show our

kids how to respond to and handle the situation, and

teach others how to help those they see in need if being

bullied. My overall goal is to get a bill to Congress that

states if a child takes their life, then the person that

caused it should be held accountable and charged. Most

importantly, though, we plan to try to help the bully and

see what it is that they are going through and why they

feel the need to hurt others. See, I feel that if someone

had taken the time with my daughter's bully, they would

have known that she came from a broken home where

her mother stated repeatedly that she didn't care what

happens to her, so I would say she lashes out to hurt

others. At the end of the day, I couldn't help her.

I thank God for keeping my daughter. Although

it's been over a year now, she has graduated from school

and tries to live a normal life as much as possible. With

God, I plan to help others and from becoming united with

others that believe in my cause, I will be able to help get

a step closer to ending bullying so that no one's child

ends up like my daughter did. I can say that I forgave the

bully; that is what keeps me going, knowing I learned

about forgiveness. I owe that to God.

*The Essential Guide to Bullying Statistics 2014 and recent bullying

percentages. (2014, December 14). Retrieved March 2, 2015, from

http://nobullying.com/bullying-statistics-2014

©mocker_bat/Fotolia.com

Diva Chronicles “Color Blind” - Golden Diva

As an African American Woman I know the dilemmas

of straying away from my African American Kings, mainly

because of loyalty and respect for my culture and race, even

when our Kings pick other races of Women to be their Queens.

I never strayed because I saw my Dad, a black Man, raise and

provide for me and my sibling as well as be a good Husband to

my Mother, a black Woman. I grew up seeing how two African

Americans can love each other and teach us the fundamentals

and traditional aspects of being “Black” in America. The songs,

the dances, and the heritage is the main reason I wanted my

future children to be raised by two African American Parents.

But what if your dream is deferred or altered?

As I grew older I realized quickly my ideal Man did not

see me as his Ideal Woman. I would hear I was too thick, too

bossy, and sometimes to “Black”. What does that mean? I was

also told I was too aggressive, too head strong, and had too

much an attitude which seems to be the definition of being “Too

Black”. Lol…Although I am very head strong the right Man will

appreciate it and love me for being the bossy, attitude having,

head strong Black Woman that I am.

I dated many Men in my lifetime and I must say I had

an amazing 10 year marriage to a Black Man. He was a great

person, but at the time I was still searching for who I was and

what I wanted to be, so I left him to find me.

After my divorce I meet Him while walking into the

grocery store. I didn’t notice him, but he noticed me. He looked

at me in such a way it made me blush and uncomfortable at the

same time. He walked up and introduce himself as Tobias. I

must admit Tobias was the type of Man that grabs your attention

instantly. He had this swag about him that turned me on, but I

had to catch myself because I didn’t want to be so attracted to

a White Man. Yes, Tobias was Caucasian and wanted me. He

asked for my number and I reluctantly gave it to him, but before

he walked away and said “You are so beautiful”.

Tobias and I starting dating and it was one of the most

caring, loving, and respectful relationships I’ve ever

experienced. I remember for the first two weeks of our

relationship he would leave a dozen roses on my porch with a

note that said “Go buy you something nice” and inside that

card was 2 one hundred dollar bills. This was the beginning

to a very expensive, yet endearing

Color Blind (Continued)

Friendship and Relationship. Dating Tobias taught me a lot, but

most of all it taught me that love is color blind. Love doesn’t care

what race you are. Love is an emotion, a feeling, and it’s also

an action. When you have emotions for a persons you develop

feelings and put into action your forms of Love. These forms of

love are shown with the way you treat a person, the little things

you do to make them smile, as well as being there for the good

and bad times. When you truly love a person you don’t care

about the little things that nag you with someone else. Love

tends to make you blind to that person’s annoying flaws. Being

in Love makes you see only the heart and not the color of the

skin.

Tobias introduce me to my very first Baseball game

and many other things I had never experienced. It’s funny

because he tried to show me all kind of new things, he even tried

to make me taste squid for the first time and I almost passed

out, but he had a backup plan and told them to fry it and instantly

I was a Calamari fan. Today Calamari is one of my favorite

appetizers.

If I didn’t meet Tobias those many years ago I would

have never known my choices to be happy could extend outside

the “Black Box”. Although, I didn’t marry Tobias are still very

good friends and speak on occasions. I really wish black women

can see past color and look at the heart, the character, and the

Man. We as

Black Woman are so loyal to the Black Man sometimes

to a default. We are the highest percentage of single

Women/Mothers in America. Don’t you think it’s time to venture

out past your own race and just see if you can finally find what

you are looking for?

Currently, I’m in love with a Nigerian Black Man and

he’s loves me back, but it took a white Man to show me that I

am beautiful just the way I AM and it will take a Real Man to

recognize that and Love me unconditionally. I have found that

with a Black Man.

ARE YOU READY TO GO COLOR BLIND?

(Black Men Have Been Color Blind for Years)

______________________________________________

Diva Chronicles “Color Blind”

Written by, Golden Diva

© Monkey Business/Fotolia.com