SlutWalk Houston: A Stand Against Political, Legal, and Misogynistic Bullying

I often think of reasons I do things that I do. Is it because of how I feel? What I learned? or because of what someone else thinks of me? I realized that I do things well...because I want to! I enjoy doing whatever it is that will keep me grounded and sane. The world is so full of occurrences, situations, and people that could drive even the Pope to insanity. Sooo making the decision to join SlutWalk Houston is no different. SlutWalk Houston is a campaign that I have taken a personal interest in. While, contrary to others' belief, I have never really considered myself an activist, but I believe in change and that it can start with a mustard seed of faith and a really loud mouth...and THAT I have.

SlutWalk Houston is a part of a series of protests following a 'victim blaming' statement made by a Toronto Police officer when addressing a group of women about Rape Prevention. SlutWalks began in Toronto, Canada and have spread like the plague across the United States. Slut Walks have infiltrated social media sites, and continues to gain momentum and national recognition from magazines such as Time, as well as local news coverage. SlutWalks, no matter where they are held, is a movement dedicated to dispelling the victim blaming culture that guides, legislate and shape our society. What makes this movement even more worthy of my participation is that this patriarchal, political and legal bullying is affecting everyone living in its time, some more closely than others.

The Texas Association Against Sexual Assault is an agency committed to ending sexual violence in Texas through education, prevention and advocacy. In the meantime, they desire to support survivors on their paths to hope, healing and justice. TAASA is the voice of the sexual assault movement in Texas. They are a unifying force bringing together parties involved in and affected by sexual assault as a catalyst for change. TAASA's vision is a Texas free from sexual violence. They envision safe, healthy communities across Texas, where no one is burdened by the far-reaching effects of sexual violence (http://www.taasa.org/about/). I find it unbelievable that we have an agency such as this one in place with a goal to have no one burdened by the effects of sexual violence, yet SlutWalks still have a very powerful mission and purpose. Is anyone else alarmed? The point is we have government agencies that have been created to educate us, protect us, and direct us, but the opposite is happening. Bullying is at an all time high, families are being destroyed, and people are losing hope in the very system that is to have this nation's well being at stake. How do we maintain order when the police officer's face look like that of an attacker? How are children expected to succeed and be productive citizens when educators are more concerned about finances than educating? How can parents raise their children, when a judge thinks he knows more about what's best for the child, then his mother? Sure many will say that this type of 'thing' has existed for many years and judging from history books, news stories and journalistic contributions, I will have to confer. However, are we suppose to allow it to continue to happen? I can't and I won't!!!

Misogyny has been the most powerful and negative influence on things that have caused a steady decline in the quality of life for thousands of people. Its time for our actions to speak just as loud as the words the govern this thing we call life. Domestic Violence, rape or any other crime isn't ok and its time that blind eyes begin to see. In the African American communities, it is often difficult to speak about less than favorable things. Its almost taboo to acknowledge wrong doing, let alone stand up for it. Well my President says "Yes We Can" and because change is inevitable, I proudly walk in the shoes of Change Agent. I want to end with a quote I wrote to address this "State of Emergency" society is in: "Political and legal bullying is hindering our nation. Victims are being blamed, children being mis-educated, families being destroyed... It is time out for misogynistic ideation, oppression, and destruction. Rather hear us as we re-construct ill-guided power and stand as pillars created of Earth's Foundation. We STAND UN-MOVED!"- Jeanette MsNightLyfe Young

Read More at :
http://www.somostejanos.org/blog/despite-name-cause-must-endure

http://community.feministing.com/2011/05/11/slutwalk-houston/


"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Sneaker Geeks Clothing: Creator Extraordinaire, Kendrick SneakerGeeks Scott

A sneakerhead is a person who owns multiple pairs of shoes as a form of collection and fashion. It is often manifested by the use of shoes primarily made for sports, such as tennis or basketball, as normal everyday clothing. The birth of sneakerhead culture in the US came in the late 1980s and can be attributed to two major sources: basketball and hip hop music (http://www.wikipedia.com/).  Raekwon's Sneakers pay homage to the Sneaker culture and the influence it has on Urban America:
 '...Who wear it all I'm an Adidas freak Multi thousand pair of sneak freak Real fly physique that'll look yea , fat watch , live footwear Have the white folks displaying my gear....'
With this boom in the late 80's of signature basketball shoes; the rise of Michael Jordan, the shoes and the man; and the explosion of hip hop; those in the collecting subculture, were given options. Those options were given street value and credibility because of Hip Hop. We all have been guilty of desiring, aspiring and even envying things we see in music videos. As soon as we're old enough to work and start purchasing things on our own, the fashion, make up, jewelry and shoes that were once the objects of our affection become a status assigning possession. As our apparel wisdom and sneaker aficionados grow, we find that certain colors are only appealing if we have the exact outfit to match it. Depending on the fashion statement desired, one may not want it to coordinate at all, but still may feel that they are FRESHAZZFUCK, and want the world around them to know that. The sneaker culture runs deep and aside from camping overnight to get the freshest kicks, the appearance of it all, makes or break the shoe fetish. Although sneakers are what this culture is passionate about, other things highlight the sneakers, influence and cultural innuendos that include music, artist show case and independent clothing lines which are some of the different avenues that the urban and sneaker culture draw into.

Kendrick SneakerGeeks Scott, Creator Extraordinaire of SneakerGeeks Clothing knows that the outfit makes one hell of a complement to the shoes. I mean really, what good are shoes if they aren't properly accessorized with clothes? I was able to catch up with Mr. SneakerGeek himself, to find all about the Sneaker Culture, his influences, and inspirations. Sneaker Geeks Clothing was created in 2009 by New Orleans own Kendrick L. Scott as an outlet to Express his love for Art, Humor, Creativity and most of all the Sneaker Culture. Being a lover of fashion and a Sneaker Enthusiast, it was only right that he share his passion with the world. Every design thoughtfully created and printed in Limited Quantities. The colorways are determined by Exclusive Sneaker Releases (http://www.sneakergeeksclothing.com/) . The beauty of Hip hop inspired fashions, interwoven in the sneaker culture is that it allows you to create your own style within a style. Kendrick tells SweetToothMedia that his interest in fashion begin in his youth. Growing up, there was always a need to be fresh. Even his mother realized his keen eye for coordinating, and had him helping her select outfits. This led Mr. Scott to a lifelong learning of fashion which included wardrobe stylist positions for various groups and organizations around New Orleans. Men and fashion has never been taboo for me, but when a man takes the initiative to define, refine and create their own line of fashion its astounding. Kendrick says "its important for young men to be fashion forward because the whole world is watching them..." He recalls in his youth, the release of exclusive kicks and having limited amounts of clothing to wear with them that allowed him to be an individual and how frustrating this was. Lets fast forward a few years and we are hit with the word SWAG. Kendrick's desire and inspiration lies in this word. He believes that Swag should represent one's own uniqueness and flair for appearance, yet it does everything but that. "Many young people believe that their swag is unique to them, when in actuality it isn't, its just the borrowed swag of someone else..." This goes hand in hand with being aware of your appearance, dispelling fashion faux pas, taking risks and being fashion forward. The word "Swag" influenced Mr. Scott so that he created a t-shirt design, Death To Tha Word Swagg. Kendrick says that if you have swag, there will be no need to go around screaming it, instead, others will notice it and attempt to borrow yours." As a fashion designer its important to duly note the message one's dress sends. Kendrick disclosed that in order for young men to be taken seriously, they must look the part. While his fashions aren't what one would wear to land a job, its definitely fit for those who have jobs, careers and the like and allows them to express themselves and embrace the culture that has colored their being.
 

Sneaker Geeks Clothing includes t-shirts, hats, tank tops, and soon to include socks. Kendrick lets us know that his designs are all about comfort. After a days work, and a decision to step out, doing so comfortably is a must...especially if one just copped the latest most freshest pair of sneakers. Mr. Scott feels that his designs are created to complement the exclusive shoe releases and makes outfit selection that much more comfortable. Mr. Scott says that in order to release a grand selection requires tons of research. This process isn't easy, as communication, coordination and the like must take place weeks before release dates. Designing includes planning and staying abreast of client demands. Currently the demographic targeted are hip-hoppers between the ages of 18-27, yet, the sneaker culture has no age limits. Sneaker Geeks Clothing designs aren't just limited to color schemes and pallets, it also captures creative concepts that the real Sneaker Geeks speak. The slogans that are found on Sneaker Geeks Clothing include catchy phrases, hip-hop influenced lyrics, and anything that keeps the culture embedded in growth, positive self image, and awareness. The clothing line includes items for men and women, however, the operating principal is unisex clothing. Being the feminist, activist that I am, I wanted to know if Mr. Scott plans to expand his line specifically for ladies. He disclosed that he plans to occupy that lane, with the same premise in mind, of comfort, bold colors, and high quality clothing. There are plans for Sneaker Geeks Clothing to expand the line to include jackets, children's clothing and of course the ladies line. When asked if there was one celebrity that he could choose to represent his line of clothing, Mr. Scott shared that it would be the artist, Wale because he embodies the vision that carries Sneaker Geeks Clothing. Currently, you will find celebrities in their own right, Kiotti and Lil Dee God's Gift representing the HEARTS OF THE STREETS and Sneaker Geeks Clothing, looking FRESHAZZFUCK!
 

You would think that as an up and coming clothing designer, there isn't time to do anything but design. Well Mr. Scott is on his way to becoming Entrepreneur of the Year. Being a strong force and designer, in the Sneaker Geek movement, its rather strategic to adhere to the demands of those that keep the movement going. That strategy is music. The Sneaker Geeks brand is now attached to a mixtape compilation highlighting artists from New Orleans to Houston. This mixtape entitled Sneaker Geeks Clothing Presents: Heart of The Streets Mixtape, featuring his favorite artists and is mixed with club, deep soul, and lyrical assortments is scheduled to be released for download on June 11, 2011. In addition to Mixtape production, Mr. Scott has just launched his summer collection, which have already been released in New Orleans and can be found at D Sixty VII Boutique (400 S. Broad Ave Suite B) in Mid City New Orleans and Mad Soulz located in Oakwood Mall. Existing yet limited quantities can also be found locally, in Houston at Urban Zone stores. There is even buzz that Sneaker Geeks Clothing will be featured in stores in Miami, Florida. His dream of Going Global, is well on its way, and the legacy pen is moving swiftly. Speaking of legacy, Mr. Scott is the father of a young son, who acts as his source of motivation and his son's existence even before birth, has ignited and routed the fire to make the Sneaker Geek Legacy a powerful one. The message that he wants his son to take away from his work is that he can do whatever he wants in life. In addition to that, Kendrick wants his son to remember to give back and use his roots to keep him deeply embedded into who he is and what he will become. You can find Mr. SneakerGeek giving back, by partnering up with organizations such as an All Girl Power Movement as well as endorsing, hosting events, marketing, participating in clothing giveaways to spread awareness of issues that plague the very community that composes the Sneaker Geek Culture: Urban America...Hip-Hop!
 

Check out Mr. SneakGeek, Creator Extraordinaire, Kendrick Scott, as we interviewed at Urban Zone Store located at 4400 North Freeway. To see what's new and to order your SneakerGeek Wear visit http://www.sneakergeeksclothing.com/ This creation is truly the Hearts Of the Streets and well Mr. Scott, I'll see you on the other side of Globally! Salud Sir. -MsNightLyfe
 
 

 

 


"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Ami 'Dolla-Not-A-Dime' Miller: Keep the Change...Ouch!

Deep in the trenches of freestyle rapping lies fear and uncertainty. In the realm of Lyrical Cypher, one must step on the scene ready to verbally TKO any opponent that stands before them. This requires great talent, courage, and skill. Improvised conversation against instrumentals and beats that guide word flow released just happens to tell a story. This is merely a foundation. Many that participate are known as battle rappers and while many will compete, its often strange or thought a misconceived victory when a woman steps on the scene. I had pleasure of meeting a young woman who dispels all demeaning perceptions of female MC's and that young woman is BET's Freestyle Friday's Reigning Queen, Ms. Ami Miller.

Ami Miller, who was born and raised in Houston, TX graduated from Westside High School. Performing publicly since the age of 12, Ami, is no stranger to hard work and dedication. Like many other entertainers, her vision begin in the form of poetry and graduated to songs, fostering her love and appreciation for the arts. Ami attended various schools across Houston to hone her performing arts talent. Being the youngest of three children, and proudly proclaiming that once she was a daddy's girl, says that her success is owed to her Super Woman...her mom. Ami was raised by a single mother that always wanted her children to have choices. As a result she has morphed into a phenomenal, well-rounded entertainer. Her mother taught her that she can function on her own, and be her own rock. Even with all her training and vitae, which includes being an official endorser for Hunid Racks Energy drinks,  Ms. Miller says that being on stage is what liberates her. While presently she prefers, to pursue her career musically, acting is something that she will certainly do later.

After spending several weeks on BET's 106 & Park Freestyle Friday, Ami Miller, went up against some pretty ragged competition. I couldn't fathom doing such a thing in private, let alone in front of millions of viewers. However, Ms. Miller says that she steps out there ready to deliver her best. Sadly, Ms. Miller stated that in the music industry women are viewed as the underdogs and are expected to come out being sex symbols as a means to obtain support. She refuses to live in a box that she didnt create and always shows up and show out. Ami feels that the biggest challenge that female MC's face when working to get respect deserved by the industry, is finding women that wont sell out. "Its the utmost importance to carry oneself with respect...I dont have to lower my standards because I have more faith in my God, music and self, than I would in any man. When she stepped out on the stage of 106 & Park for the first time, she was devasted and distracted as she received news, that her brother had passed away after a battle with cancer. Ami said that her mom, encouraged her to keep going and thats what she did. She said at that point it didnt really matter if she won or lost, she just wanted to be home with her family. (In case you are wondering, she was able to leave the show and help ensure her brother was put away peacefully). Ami says that she entered with her game face and left with her game face on. Her first battle, was against another female MC, and like all the other competition, winning was a walk in the park. When battling she states its best to study your opponent. The easiest opponents were guys, because their cypher's are predictable. When freestyling, lyrically, she is inspired by the beats that she hears or the situations that presented to her. Her freestyle technique is simple, yet refined, in that she practices, knows her competition, realizes her own weaknesses, and strengths and start out simple, talking about the obvious and building up to the burial of her opponent. 

When asked which female MC's inspired and/or influenced her, she stated anything Hip Hop influences her, but if she had to drop names it would be Lil Kim and Eve. She says she loves the Boldness of Lil Kim and the poise of Eve. Like those two very influential women, Ami Miller also wants to be referred to as a Great rapper, not a Great Female Rapper. In addition, Ami, wants the world to know she is not a battle rapper, rather a diligent Lady Hustler that raps and is better than great at it. She says to remain successful and dedicated to her hustle, she must constantly improve, stay positive, expand, and network. Her next project includes the release of her mixtape, Dolla Not a Dime. Ami is in talks with a few labels and hopes to sign to those offering her the best deal, that allows her to remain in the driver's seat of her career. She plans to release "Make It Better' soon, in rememberance of her brother. Ami will start a tour later this month; New York, LA, and New Orleans are among the cities she will grace. Ami would like to say to her fans: " Thank You, I love you more than you love me, and I'm coming, dont wait for me , watch me, and then we will all celebrate...!"

Concluding our conversation, I just had to know the symbolism of "Ouch", as she ends every social media post with it. Ami informed me that its a sarcastic way of saying, I just stepped on your toes after burying you alive...Ouch, that hurts. I must say that is the best way to end any competition. It was a pleasure to meet with Ami. I am taken aback at her gracefulness, tact, and sophistication. You can find Ami's music at

http://www.ourstage.com/profile/amimiller
http://www.worldstarhiphop.com/videos/video.php?v=wshh8CWZze9SfjU9EF8G
http://msdramatv.com/2011/03/17/amimilleromg-takes-over-underground-noize-radio-with-msdrama-on-btr/
http://www.youtube.com/
http://allhiphop.com/stories/multimedia__music/archive/2011/04/27/22693519.aspx
http://www.bet.com/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Desire, Hostility, Delusion: A Cinematic Debut and Red Carpet Premier Press Release

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 05/17/2011

THE “NEW GAY” IN FILM
Red Carpet Film Premier of “Desire, Hostility, Delusion”, an Ink Media Film where films are created to focus on traditional life experiences, not the typical gay stereotypes.

(Houston, Texas) - Films that depict “Real Lives” and “Real Issues” in gay life could look like traditional families and their everyday issues. In the new film “Desire, Hostility, Delusion,” Writer/Director Lyndonne Payne, creates a storyline where the gay characters could easily be replaced with straight characters and the the issues would still be relevant. She is the newest break-out star whose hope is to create films that represent real world issues facing gays and lesbians to the big screen. Desire Hostility Delusion is our introduction into the lives of characters we will see once Payne begins filming a series that chronicles Real Lesbian Life. Payne says, “Films, where viewers can relate to the issues and appeal to any audience is the future of film making. The major differences are of course, the outcomes.“

In her Cinematic drama debut, Lyndonne Payne explores the lives of four women whose desperate attempts at achieving self fulfillment turn deadly. In the film, the character Gabby (Latoya Jarett) who is career driven and determined, takes violent and desperate measures to achieve her dream of having a child. Her partner, Cinematographer, Tess (Erica Gipson), is unwilling to give up the life she has worked so hard to establish; the two women find themselves in their ten year relationship with different agendas and aspirations for their future together. Their paths ultimately cross with Toni (Edith Morales) and Stacy (Charlene Cruse) who share a similar story. The film explores the issues of surrogacy, civil unions, domestic violence, friendships, addiction, loyalty, death and grief. These issues are faced in everyday life by individuals regardless of lifestyle. Hopefully, more film makers will make films that allow the world to see that gays and lesbians live regular lives and encounter issues that effect people in general.

Payne premier’s her debut film in her hometown of Houston, Texas where most of the actors reside. Payne, in collaboration with Star Management Group and Sweet Tooth Media has created a Red Carpet Screening Event which will feature 2 showings of the film.

When/Where: Sunday, June, 26, 2011 - TBH Theater- 333 Jensen Drive, Houston, Texas 77003
Press Check In: 3:00pm
Show #1: 4:00p – 5:30p
Champagne Reception: 5:30 – 6:30
Show #2: 6:30p – 8:00p
General Admission Seating: $10
VIP Seating: $15

The screening features a Champagne Reception Hosted by Performer and Activist, Mildred “DRED” Gerestant ( http://www.dredlove.com/ ) and a Meet and Greet with the actors during intermission. There will be future Red Carpet Screenings of the film in Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, DC, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago. To host a Red Carpet screening of this film in your city, contact Ink Media Productions: dhd@inkmediaproductions.com. Press materials available at http://www.desirehostilitydelusion.com/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Ms. Lori's Boutique and Novelty Grand Opening: Ladies are Hustler's Too

May 7th 2011 marked the beginning of an era in boutique and novelty shopping. Ms. Lori's Boutique Grand Opening was held at Mercado Market Place located at 7355 Hwy 6. Houston, TX. Unsure of what to expect at this Grand Opening, I went in with an open mind and plenty of plans and money to shop. What I experienced was all that and more. When I got there, Ms. Lori and her staff were still setting up. So quite naturally, I joined in but couldn't help but notice the intricate details that had been put in place to make the store inviting. A sign that reads "Ms. Lori's Boutique" decorated in bright pink with a sexy silhouette painted boldly hung proudly above the stores entrance. Inside the store, behind the cash register was an Old Paris' picture set and to me that symbolized that love lives there and was certainly in the air. Each article of clothing was neatly hung. Ms. Lori's Boutique has dresses, shirts and more for every sized woman. The most beautiful part of Ms. Lori's Boutique aside from herself, is the shelves and glass cases full of adult toys, that keep the college freshman that lives within us alive. Items included penis inspired massagers, whips, paddles, bed restraints, gels, lubricants and my personal favorite, poles. Nothing in the store was overwhelming, however, with all of the love and support, service with a beautiful smile, one cant help but feel smothered by prosperity.

As Ms. Lori added the final touches to make the Grand Opening everything she wanted and more, I was able to talk with her about the entrepreneurial ventures that led to the opening of Ms. Lori's Boutique. It all began for Ms. Lori six years ago when she started hosting adult novelty parties and that led to selling the novelty items. Ms. Lori stated that while she made a decent living working for someone else,  figured that she could almost double her earnings, working for herself. As a result Sweet Lorraines's Fabulous Fun Parties was established. Ms. Lori disclosed that she traveled from Texas to Louisiana having parties and selling items to Caucasian women. Although this generated great sales, she couldnt help but feel that her inventory was unbalanced  and didnt reach her clients of color. She stated that 'black women have been raised and conditioned to believe that any thing sex or sexuality was taboo". Ms. Lori wanted to change this so that all women could appreciate her own sexuality and embrace the desire for more and different. Her secret to success was having the items ordered on hand, for immediate purchase gratification. Items sold at the fun parties included but wasnt limited to novelty items, clothes and romance enhancements. On my way to being a novelty expert, I had to know what was the most popular item sold. Ms. Lori informed me that she had popular items that ranged from lubricants to massagers, but the hottest item was the stripper pole that came in gold, silver, and pink. Brands include Carmen Electra and Hustler, ranging from $150-$200. Other merchandise include dolphins, rabbits and anything a woman can use in private. After examining the stores full inventory, all I could say is: I'll take one of everything please!

Ms. Lori has plans to expand just as she expanded Sweet Lorraines. She hopes to purchase commercial property to accomodate the expected success of Ms. Lori's Boutique. In addition to storefront expansion, Ms. Lori is currently seeking ladies to carry out the sales of Sweet Lorraine's Fabulous Fun Parties and keep her humble beginnings going strong. She states that it isnt all about the money, as she has learned a great deal from Sweet Lorraine's business and the wormen that attend the parties. Ms. Lori disclosed that she is very personable with the women and share a ton of experiences with them. The reciprocity of the learning process amazes me. Ms. Lori's work is not only informative but it provides an outlet for the women to share, open up and nurture their own sexuality and sensuality. Ms. Lori says that the most important thing she has learned as an entreprenuer is to invest fully in your own company as its the only guaranteed way to reap a profit. She says what keeps her going is when an idea is born, that she works diligently until it becomes reality, even if in reality, it fails.

Ms. Lori's Grand Opening was an extreme accomplishment. Not because of the flow of customers, or the money earned that day, but because Ms. Lori is also giving others a chance to earn as well. She is currently featuring a jewelry designer's earrings in the store and plans to incorporate a fashion designer's merchandise as well. Aside from the novelty items, my most favorite item in the store was Ms. Lori's t-shirt that read "Who Gone Check Me Boo?' There were a variety of colors and slogans on the t-shirts sold. It seemed that once we added the final t-shirt to the shelf, ensured that each rack was populated with its own line of clothing; customers begin to stream in. I dont recall a moment where the store wasnt busy. It was a constant flow of customers buying everything from dresses, jewelry, and of course adult 'playthings'. I even sold a dress and it was rather refreshing. Ms. Lori's Boutique Grand Opening, served food for the customers to show her appreciation for their support. I purchased a few items as well. I would tell you what I bought, but Good Girls Never Tell!

I end this with a couple of quotes for the entrepreneur in us all:
“Capital isn't that important in business. Experience isn't that important. You can get both of these things. What is important is ideas.” -Harvey Firestone, founder of Firestone Tire & Rubber

“I had to make my own living and my own opportunity! But I made it! Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them!"
-Madam C.J. Walker, creator of beauty products and the first female self-made millionaire

Madame Lori, I see you shining!! Salute and much success to you!

-Harvey Firestone, founder of Firestone Tire & Rubber
"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Mildred "D.R.E.D" Gerestant: Daring Reality Every Day

Many of us have seen or heard things that raises eyebrows. Some of us have been apart of what I like to call the "Eye Raising Movement". These are people that create their own lanes, living life as only the author of an autobiography could...these people are individuals! According to Webster, an individual is defined as a single human being distinguished from a group. In other words, our society deems us as one in a group of people. While many of us use the word individual loosely, not very many live up to its standard. Oscar Wilde states, "Society exists only as a mental concept; in the real world there are only individuals." I have had the pleasure of witnessing, meeting and conversing with an individual that lives, breathes and eat all components that supports the definitive. That individual's name is D.R.E.D (Daring Reality Every Day) aka MilDred Gerestant- Haitian African American.

If you searched MilDred Gerestant on any engine on the world wide web, you will find that she is a humanitarian, lecturer, actress, educator, healer and most of all a beautifully human individual. Known for a vast array of accomplishments and barrier shedding achievements, Dred (as I prefer to call her) is monumental in her successes for gender bending. Gender bending refers to those individuals who actively defies expected gender roles. Usually, attached to those of the LGBT community, gender bending is those individuals born of one sex but dresses, acts, and sometimes live as the opposite sex. MilDred, who is an out and proud member of the LGBT community, says that she begin gender bending, to find herself. Having always had a love for women, yet not loving herself, it became critical for her to accept what she was and embrace who she wished to become. She states, "I was labeled, ridiculed, and ostracized for the way I looked and where I came from..." That led to a hindering life of self-hate and suicide attempts for Dred. What gave her the strength to rise up from this conditioning of self-hate, was a search deeper into self and self love. A startling realization that made her a victim of group think, Dred learned that she had been taught to hate how she looked and who she was. This awareness jolted an awakening and desire for something different, something better for herself. MilDred found herself, feeling at home after attending drag king shows. Knowing she loved women, she felt comfortable being able to dress up as a man, and not being judged so harshly. This in turn lead to her alternating between living as a man and a woman. Dred, disclosed that accepting her masculinity aided in her embracing her femininity and loving the woman that she was born. While on this path of self love, truth and acceptance, it became known that this could be a powerful movement of education, exposition, and redirection. So much so, that Dred realized, that she is the one she always wanted to marry.

Being such a revolutionary, you would think that, Dred, reads a ton of books a day. I mean to break barriers, you have to be a knowledge seeker, right? Contrary to my belief, the desire to read only hits her from time to time. Dred states that at times when she reads, it takes her away to places that she want to be and other times to places she refuses to go, but goes anyway to face her fear. Dred states that the most critical thing in her journey is self-education and spiritual guidance. When she reads its those things that she feels will continue to help her evolve into being who she sets out to be. In her library you will find books by Osho, the Seven Spiritual Laws of Success and other spiritual healing guides. MilDred lets me know that Osho teaches how to use negative labels as a means of transforming self loathing into self worth..." To supplement reading, Dred meditates, listen to music, move and a number of other things to ensure that healing is taking place. She will even go a step further when angry and write a letter to the person or thing that is causing an imbalance with the universe and burn it. Dred taught me to deal with anger and fear as it can change who you are if you dont. She further teaches that in order to live and remain a free spirit, you have to do the things you dont want to do and figure out, it wasnt that bad to begin with.

MilDred talks alot about "Fear". She says that fear will make one a prisoner in a life sentence if we dont walk through it. When I think of fear, I think of the acronym: False Evidence Appearing Real. The only way to know that its false evidence is to prove it so and that can only be done when walking on a path of courage, led by faith. What intrigues me about Dred is that she says to hell with what others think, I am going to live MY life for ME, not people full of opinions, that wasnt asked for or warranted. This makes me think of a quote by Gerard Way: “Be yourself, don't take anyone's shit, and never let them take you alive.” MilDred is the living testament of this statement. Dred is more than an inspiration, she is an educator of life, teaching us how to live the life we want, without the limitations placed on us by others. While this is the easiest thing to write, its more than difficult to practice. Today, I make my vow, to embrace my individuality, and live life according to my rules.
“There comes a time when you have to stand up and shout:
This is me damn it! I look the way I look, think the way I think, feel the way I feel, love the way I love! I am a whole complex package. Take me... or leave me. Accept me - or walk away! Do not try to make me feel like less of a person, just because I don't fit your idea of who I should be and don't try to change me to fit your mold. If I need to change, I alone will make that decision. When you are strong enough to love yourself 100%, good and bad - you will be amazed at the opportunities that life presents you.”    -Stacy Charter

To learn more about Dred and her work, visit http://www.dredlove.com/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Authentic Deception: The Intellectual Diva

Whats in a name? Everything if you ask me. Our name can influence our character, who we are and what we stand for. The one thing which separates human beings from the animal kingdom is human mind, which has the ability to reason on a conscious level. To think consciously, one must use language. This point is not generally appreciated but it is vitally important. It is impossible to think without language. What allows language to serve in this manner? In the case of languages which have alphabets, letters are placed in a definite sequence in the alphabet, i.e., in the English alphabet, "A" is always in the first position, "B" in the second position, and so on. Any alphabet is an alphabet because symbols are recognized by their form or sound in a definite order--change the order and confusion results.The power of a name and its value has long been immortalized in prose, poetry, and religious ceremony. Everyone recognizes himself or herself by name.I have had the pleasure of interacting, meeting and bonding with a woman defined, remembered by her name. That name is Authentic Deception.

I thought it important to properly identify the meaning of the name to gain insight into, who I had been interacting with:

AUTHENTIC, defined as genuine, real. Its origin from the 1300–50; < Late Latin authenticus < Greek authentikós original, primary, at first hand, equivalent to authént ( ēs ) one who does things himself.  

DECEPTION, defined as the state of being deceived.

Reflecting, analyzing and synthesizing this information, I find that her name fits her. When I sat down with Authentic Deception whose government name is Tammy Fleming, I asked, "Sista, how did you come up with that name, I absolutely love it?" She disclosed that her name is unique and that uniqueness embodies her. When one looks at her, they assume that she is everything that she is not. Because there are a plethora of sides to her: Poetess, Real Estate Broker, Business Owner, Hair Stylist, people are authentically deceived. She fell in love with the name simply because its a play on words- tough exterior yet femininely refined.

When I met Authentic Deception, it was in the form of Poetess. She was the Feature Poet for He(Art) and Soul XXV. Her poetry was genuine, witty, exaggerated, sexual and feminine. Losing grasp with reality, looking at her spit with the emotion that she did, I experienced an outer body, and felt as if I was looking at myself on that stage. The words she spoke pierced my soul, shattered my spirit and uplifted my hope. Such an awakening, I had to find out who this mirroring creature was, what motivated her to write and speak so eloquently...so truthfully.

As a writer first and poet second, I like to know what inspires people to create, hone, and share their craft. I wasn't surprised that some form of pain ignited the fuel to spit, what I was taken aback and saddened by was that it was a great tragedy that started her on this path.  Authentic Deception and her siblings loss their mother to murder. Being raised and shuffled around in group homes, writing became an escape and a contract to hold herself accountable for how her life turned out. Her poetry is in fact autobiographical in nature, often using her own life experiences to vent, seek advice and of course inspire. A piece that hasn't been shared just yet is "He Fits Me", she looks at this piece as meticulous with words and passion, Inspired by conversational exchange with her and friends.

Playing on words is what makes poetry worth writing. Authentic Deception likes to write, because its a way that her thoughts are uninterrupted and allows her mind to complete what it started. The French poet Paul Valéry defined poetry as "a language within a language." The contemporary poet Kenneth Koch speaks of poetry as a language in which the sound of the words is raised to an importance equal to that of their meaning, and also equal to the importance of grammar and syntax. In ordinary language, the sound of a word is useful almost exclusively in order to identify it and to distinguish it from other words. In poetry, its importance is much greater. Poets think of how they want something to sound as much as they think of what they want to say and in fact it's often impossible to distinguish one from the other. Authentic Deception speaks of poetry much like these, but she is influenced by the oldies but goodies. She says that she cant plan to write, it just has to happen. Often times she wakes up out of her sleep and write. She loves metaphors, nature, synonyms, speaking literally and figuratively. She writes best 'in the moment' while running on pure emotion. She likes the unpredictability, and never knows what turns up until its completed.

As a salon owner of  Trends by Tammy, she is afforded an overabundance of stories, situations and ideations that provide a platform to speak. She has even had what I like to call 'spit sessions' in her salon, often impromptu. "Its encouraging to me and my clients". I asked her how would you poetically tell someone to be encouraged and her response was quite simple: "the best thing to do for self is living well, its the ultimate revenge. Get yourself together in spite of and have a clear conscious." Like myself, Authentic is Crazzzzzzy about solutions, once a problem has been acknowledged. "Its important to remain assertive and stand your ground", she says. By way of New Orleans, Authentic is proud of who she is, and what she has accomplished. Being a single mom and a single woman for the last 17 years I am proud of her too. You can find Authentic Deception anywhere, the open mic is hot. She truly is an Intellectual Diva! #Salute!
 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied"