Four months into a new year and we are off to an awesome start . Starting over is not the same as recouping from a failure. It is a new beginning. This mindset is helpful because it keeps you from wasting your time being too

hard on yourself. Moving through life is like climbing stairs. You go up a level and then you level off. Nothing is ever a straight shot. Have some patience with yourself and with your newfound direction. It could also be a new life if you approach it in the right way. Sometimes little ideas can turn into big things. Try writing that letter to the editor or, if you need to, make the choice to drink a little less alcohol. Endings are not necessarily bad things. Even if the past year was your best so far, thIS year just might just leave it in the dust. This is also true if it’s been your worst year so far, and you’ve suddenly found yourself unemployed or unattached. Starting over may feel scary, but it’s really a cause for celebration. Think of it as exciting, and many of your anxious feelings will begin to fade. Remember that your future is not governed by your past. No matter what has happened in your life, you can find a way to make things a little better for yourself, and hopefully for those around you as well. Having to start over is different from choosing to start over. For those whose lives are still in chaos because of manmade and natural disasters, starting over is not a choice. Giving support to those in need and being able to accept it when necessary are great qualities. Healthy alternatives to negative lifestyle patterns abound. Take baby steps if you need to, until you are constable with the direction you want to go. If you can’t stop a bad habit, start by cutting back. It’s okay to give yourself a little time to moderate or stop something that’s hurting you. It’s not all about joining a gym to get fit. What about taking a dance class to get in shape and have fun at the same time? Start-ing over can mean chasing your dreams. We’re happiest when we’re moving toward a goal. Starting over is about giving yourself a chance at real happiness. You will have to be brave and get good at learning new things, but how bad can that be? At the very worst, you will acquire the skills you need to start on the next project. Right here and right now is a great time to start over. Remember that once you honestly commit to the changes, you have already begun the process. Latoya Corbin

High school seniors nationwide are preparing to graduate, receiving college acceptance letters and possibly enrolling in a college or university. The

challenging economy has made many of these young adults acutely aware of the important role their degree can play when they face com-mencement once again, this time entering the job market.

“Knowledge of projected industry growth is ex-tremely helpful as students choose their major or area of study,” says Dr. Chad Kennedy, chair and professor of biomedical engineering tech-nology in the College of Engineering and Infor-mation Sciences at DeVry University. “Unlike

some career fields where opportunities are shrinking, many technology and engineer-ing fields are expanding at double-digit rates. In fact, many employers can’t find enough qualified applicants to meet their needs.”

The workforce is rapidly evolving; some of the most desired professional roles of yes-terday are shrinking today and will become obsolete tomorrow. The class of 2013 will enter emerging career fields, managing the technologies that drive advanced hospital settings, leading development of the next cloud-based application and protecting companies and consumers from cyber and financial fraud alike.

The sky is the limit for cloud computing as it continues to drive job growth - garnering inter-est from Main Street, Wall Street, corporations and governments.

In fact, a study from the Sand Hill Group sug-gests that cloud computing - driven by the 21st century surge in mobile computing, social net-working and big data - may generate more job growth in the coming years than the Internet itself did during the 1990s.

Cloud computing provides the means through which technology-based services - from computing power and infrastructure to ap-plications, processes and collaboration - can be immediately accessed by users through the Internet, or the “cloud.”

As the nature of information technology continues to evolve, requiring its workforce to obtain cloud-based knowledge, under-standing and technical skills, some higher education providers have launched degree programs that align with cloud-related fields.

DeVry University, for example, offers bach-elor’s degree programs in computer informa-tion systems and network and communi-cations management, as well as a master’s degree program in network and communica-tions management. Each program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to implement software solutions that can also be used in cloud-related applica-tions.

Americans were born to make lemonade. If you have any doubt about the resiliency of U.S. work-ers, consider the many reports that indicate millions of Ameri-

cans are turning life’s lemon of layoffs into an opportunity to work for themselves. With unemployment rates still high, many people are looking to self-employment to create stable, rewarding careers for themselves.

Self-employment offers many advantages, including more flexible work schedules, less job uncertainty and the satisfaction of working for yourself. If you’re considering a career change to self-employment and want to start your own business, insurance may be the field for you. It’s one of four fields, including child care, accounting and financial planning, that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts will see double-digit growth in the next few years.

Opportunities in the insurance industry for sales agents will grow 22 percent between now and 2020, according to the BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. Agents help clients under-stand their insurance needs and choose policies that best fit those needs and protect the things that are most important: homes, automobiles,

businesses and above all else, lives.The insurance field offers quick entry, even for those with only a high school diploma, and profitability can be even more accessible for those who pursue professional training. Companies like Farmers Insurance, which is expanding into eastern states from its base in California, offer self-employment opportu-nities for those who wish to run their own agencies. Farmers provides training and can even assist with start-up financing at attrac-tive terms. Along with all the benefits of self-employment, including a more flexible work schedule and the potential to work at home, agents who align themselves with an established company like Farmers can enjoy the benefit of working with a well-recognized brand.

While it may be difficult to predict what the country’s overall unemployment rate will be, there is still plenty of good news for career changers looking for fields that offer growth potential. Choosing a career in insurance, financial planning or another industry that anticipates double-digit growth in the next decade can help many career-changers achieve their dream of becoming successful entrepreneurs and help them make lemon-ade out of life’s lemons.

Today’s music industry can be considered an ever evolving business. At times seeming impossible to stay ahead of the curve and create something new

and fresh…unless you are Shak-Trauma or Belle Boy. This dynamic duo makes up the very talented production team of the Brook Brovaz Production and Entertainment Company. Nestled in downtown Brooklyn, they have created a production powerhouse that has worked with an impressive list of noteworthy artist and songwriters. The list consists of artists such as Toni Braxton, FreeWay, Tek 9, Static Major, Peddie Crack and others.

Brook Brovaz Entertainment is well on their way to making an impact in this industry that they love. Their artist development division, run by the Brook Brovaz First Lady Cloe Luv, is the first stop for the many talented young men and women they have taken under wing. The current front runners

on the roster are Kayla, a Brooklyn singer of Jamaican descent and Coola, a young Brooklynite from the hood that sees his love for Hip Hop as a conduit to a new life. Both extremely talented and both ready to take on the world.

Being relatively new to the music game certainly has its challenges but nothing that Brook Brovaz Entertainment and Production cannot handle. They have already been vali-dated and authenticated. They are focused and ready to continue to take the music world by storm.

Press inquiries to Raychelle LeBlanc, SheNotes Ent, shenotespublicity@gmail.com

Jer-Z (New Jersey born rap artist who currently resides in Newport News, Virginia) has been grinding in the mu-sic industry with full focus for the past

seven years. Now at age 26, Jer-Z’s experience in music and in life has transformed into ripeness within his art. His readiness can be heard undoubtedly on the 15-track mixtape titled “Mr. Hennessy.” Jer-Z went into the game with the mindset that he was going to have to work hard. Hard work wasn’t foreign to Jer-Z. His belief is that nothing is going to be just given to you, so you have to grind hard.M. YVETTE: Jer-Z, you became seriously into the rap game at an age where you were young but still embarking on true manhood. Did this make any difference to the style of your music?JER-Z: I got started earlier but I wasn’t taking it seriously then. When I became like 18… 19 that’s when I started to take it [as] serious. My art is aggressive but not too aggressive. My context is aggressive… I can come aggressive in one way, but then I come soft in another way. I really don’t put no thought into it like, “I’m going to do this… I’m going to do that.” It all just comes naturally off feelings and emotions. Nothing is planned. Nothing is scripted. It’s like real life events.M. YVETTE: Give me some examples from the tracks on Mr. Hennessy.JER-Z: “Crownblack or Hennessey [C.B.O.H.]” features a fellow artist by the name of Capital Q.B. I have a song that’s called “Light it Up” on there. You have to

listen to it from start to finish. The reason why I call it “Mr. Hennessy” is because it’s smooth and hard at the same time.M. YVETTE: Would you say your music is a laid back vibe, or is it party music for the clubs? Is it both?JER-Z: It’s mainly street music but it’s either way because at the end of the day I’m not a rapper; I’m an artist. You have to be able to do different things with it [by] being an artist. I worked with a lot of producers. Rob Beats, Team Beats, Top shelf, High Def… and Corey Drums; he did a track on Mr. Hennessy called, ‘Double Cross.’ I deal with a lot of producers all around. My hand reaches out to everybodyM. YVETTE: Have you been doing any shows?JER-Z: The Norva and at The Jewish Moth-er [Norfolk]. I headlined at Liquid Blue. December 1st. I had the Mr. Hennessy release party, with my manager, Mercedes Williams, at Queens Way Soul Café. We have another big event April 5th [Queens Way Soul Café]; which I’ll be headlining that too.M. YVETTE: Jer-Z, what has been your most gratifying experience through all of this?JER-Z: The response that I’m getting. That’s been the biggest for me. People come up and say, “I know exactly what you were talking about.” That’s how powerful words can be sometimes.DatPiff.com/jer-z-Mr.Hennessy-mixtapes Youtube.com/jer-z Twitter.com@iamjer_z

BY M. YVETTE

Dirty Don- Representing South Norfolk, hailing as one of the top tier local artists in the 757. After the currently

unsolved murder of his brother Mouse, he decided to take his budding music career to the next level, a talent that he began to craft years earlier. Don has garnered local acceptance with his Diamonds, Oil, and Gold Mix-tape, where he enlisted the talents of local comedian Jokin’ Joe and local DJ Maino Star. Don has also gone on to secure openings for entertainers such as Jim Jones, Yo Gotti, French Mon-tana, Juicy J, Project Pat and Future. He continues to perform in hip hop showcases around the region and drop bangers with production from some of Virginia’s most sought after produc-ers such as JBEazy,Kino,DJ Skuff,Mr. Saucy,DJ 64,Mike Norfleet and Young Roc. He has rocked crowds in attend-ance of 5,000 in cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, New York, DC and North Carolina. You can reach Don on twitter @DirtyDon757

MalikStone creatively delivers lyrics rich with clever meta-phors with confidence, finesse, and talent. He has an uncanny ability to connect to the track

and draw out the hidden sounds and story. You can hear classic hip hop, jazz, funk, and soul influences in his songs. He writes hooks that add dimension to the tracks, such as I’m Here, where he announces his arrival to the music scene. Ma-likStone has performed multiple times at Mangos and at the Buckroe Beach Fest 2011 & 2012 in the Hampton Roads area. DJs are spinning his tracks in nightclubs and his music is being played on online radio stations as well as radio stations in Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, and Georgia. MalikStone has one primary mission: to share his musical productions with people of all walks of life and hope they allow themselves to fully experience music in its essence! He is prepared to branch out to the MidWest, the West Coast, and internationally, and perform in all types of venues. He would also like to have his music used on scores and soundtracks for movies and com-mercials. MalikStone credits many music greats, but most notably J. Dilla, Rakim, Snoop, Outkast, and Black Moon. He embraced the culture and art of hip hop, breaking, rhyming, and performing while growing up along the East Coast and even in Japan. Now seasoned and polished, and hav-ing witnessed the evolution of hip hop from the Golden Era to the present day, MalikStone bridges the old with the new, and hip hop with other genres of music. Let Yaself Go is a soulful track with a classic vibe that encourages music lovers to be free. Poppin Champagne is a club track that invites listeners to celebrate MalikStone’s entry into the music industry. MalikStone paints a vivid picture of the gentleman club’s experience with a skillful use of lyrics over a rhythmic track in Godawork. In Rhyme after Rhyme, MalikStone clearly describes his love relationship with hip hop using a perfect balance of metaphors. MalikStone grooves over the track with an effortless flow on S.T.O. Regardless of the content of the song, you are guaranteed to find that MalikStone signature style in all his songs. His sound is polished and with each new release, he creates an anticipation, “What will he come up with next?!” MalikStone has something special, a nice addition to hip hop and the music industry altogether.

Get ready!

Rami Tull aka KEMO is an up and coming lyricist from the 757. At the young age of 18 many have recognized his

ability to write catchy hooks for the die hard music lover and use his vast vocabulary to creatively express his thoughts. Keep your eyes open and be sure to remember his name.

Thaddeus Harris (born June 19, 1980), better known by his stage name Phatt Phiggaz, is an American hip hop recording artist from Fort Valley, Georgia

currently residing in Macon, Georgia. He was first known for being one-half of south-ern hip-hop duo OTB (Original Thorough-bred), alongside longtime friend and fellow rapper now producer Keith “AoneStatuz” Lowe. They were best known for recording and releasing the independent album “Hus-tle Now, Ball Forever”, as well as their debut single “Heeza”.Phatt Phiggaz released his first independ-ent album They See Me Coming in 2013. It featured artist Paincity.

For more information :http://www.datpiff.com/Phatt-Phiggaz-They-See-Me-Coming-mixtape.465830.html

DJ JBMoney was born in Washington D.C. on July 12, 1986, but was raised on the southwest side of Atlanta, GA. Growing up in the SW area of

Atlanta; DJ JBMoney was greatly influenced by the music of Goodie Mob and Outkast, the founding hip hop acts of the Dirty South movement. Both rapped about the lifestyle of what was going on in that time when Atlanta was not the easiest place to live. With those influences, DJ JBMoney was able to gain a huge respect for Hip Hop and a strong love for all aspects of music in general. After trying to keep positive influences around, DJ JBMoney was able to survive the trail and tribulations of the SW Area of Atlanta. Despite the negative influences that was also vibrate throughout the SW, he was still able to finish his education at B.E. Mays High School. After high school, DJ JBMoney wanted to pursue a career within the music industry as a promoter or dj. Unfortunately, since there were still negative influences that

coincided with the SW ATL lifestyle, he was forced to become the average 9 to 5 individual. While he was working many 9 to 5 jobs, DJ JBMoney always keep the entrepreneur spirit and love for music in his heart. He eventually realized that every 9 to 5 job was leading him nowhere and that in order to achieve his goals in life was to pursue his passion. Now at the age of 25, DJ JBMoney is keeping the entrepreneur spirit and love for music alive within himself by pursuing his passion and goal in life which is to be a successful dj. His purpose for wanting to dj is simply not because of the money djs make or the fame. 1. It is basically because of his wanting to help those upcoming underground mc’s, who he associates himself with, earn their chance to be heard. 2. To be in a position where he can provide for his family. 3. His deep passion for wanting to share great music with others.SOCIAL NETWORK-TWITTER @DJJBMONEY86FB/ DJJBMONEYREVERBNATION/ DJJBMONE

Im Juliet HQIC the CEO of HQIC Entertain-ment a promotional modeling Team based in Columbus Ga. Im mostly known for Hosting events & Red Carpet functions in the Tri-City & surrounding areas. I’ve been on thousands

of flyers through out Georgia, Florida & Alabama. I also been featured on & in numerous magazines in Georgia. Ive done many music videos One in which was featured on BET’s 106&Park. My models & I are booked every year in Myrtle Beach SC for Black Bike Week. I love to travel & step outside the Box! I will never give up on my dreams of becoming a Famous Host! For booking PLEASE email me at hqicenter-tainment@gmail.com or call 7063939447. You may also check me out live by google or youtube search “Juliet Hqic”! Thanks & be on the Look out for me & my Queens in a city near you!

Cordy has earned four 2013 Virginia State Championships and competi-tor of the year awards. Cordy started learning Shaolin Kung Fu at the age 3 from his father. A year later young

Willie III started training at four years of age with the Hunter family when they relocated to their home in Virginia. The school at the time was run by Willie Hunter Jr. and his brother Jeffery Hunter and their father Kiyoshi Willie Hunter Sr. After years of training he earned his black belt at the age of 9 and has become the youngest black belt in Shito Ryu/ Shotokan Karate- Do to come through Tiger Martial Arts. Now at 14 years of age, Cordy is a second Dan in Shito ryu/Shoto-kan Karate-Do. Master Willie Hunter Jr. remains

Young Cordy’s head instructor in Karate with the elder Cordy, Willie Cordy Jr. as his coachand strategist. Cordy has a green belt in Muay Thai Kickboxing under Master Willie Hunter Jr. He also trains in Olympic Taekwondo un-der the instruction of Master Charles Parks.The National tournament is coming up where Lil Willie will represent Virginia in the State Games of America in Hershey PA. this sum-mer and also; He earned a spot on “Team America” where we will travel to Dublin Ireland also this summer for the World Mar-tial Arts Games. Team America is the United States International Martial Arts Competition Team.Web Site: www.youngtigermartialarts.com

Professor Willie C. Cordy Jr trained in atlanta at the “Tai Chi Association” in Decatur Georgia under Master Chong. There he studied Traditional Shaolin Kung

Fu. Atlanta Georgia is where he earned the name “Young Dragon”. Cordy had the fastest feet around. His long extension of his legs helped in his whipping of the tail. Later, Cordy had the privilege of teaching the chil-dren’s classes in Kung Fu. This was an honor he felt he earned for his hard work. Emer-gencies later in the family put his studies on hold. Cordy had to leave the city and his school he loved for family responsibilities.Cordy returned to the streets of his birth place, Portsmouth, Virginia. These are some of the streets that helped mold him into the person that he is. Cordy was born and raised in Portsmouth, it was in the streets of Portsmouth (P-Town) with his friendsthat Cordy learned how hard life could be.

The moral upbringing from his mother and father, and the streets of Portsmouth during the early 80’s is what kept him on his toes.Cordy continues his studies at Tiger MartialArts Academy under Willie Hunter Jr in the art of strategy and conditioning while coaching his only son Willie “Young Tiger” Cordy III. Cordy coaches his son in strategy training for competition fighting.Cordy also trains together with his son at theWing Chun Kung Fu School in Virginia Beachunder the tutelage of Sifu Gorden Lu, son of LoMan Kam and great nephew of Master Ip Man.

Email: highcreator@cox.net

January of 2013 Phattz II Salon made its way across the water from the Southside and onto its new location at 871 North Military Highway in Norfolk, Virginia. Phattz Salon is

owned and operated by the highly nota-rized and professional stylist Phatz (with one T). Phatz defines the name as Pretty Hair All The Tyme… a Tyme for anything.Latricia “Phatz” White started doing hair at around 20 years of age. It wasn’t

BY M. YVETTE

something that she had even seen herself doing; she had actually always envisioned herself as a teacher. The stylist, salon owner, and co- founder of Hampton Chapter Beauty Professionals, describes her life changing journey more or less as one navigated by what God had destined. Phatz, explained, “Hair wasn’t even on my list. I would do my own hair, but I was not thinking about doing hair. I was thinking about being someone’s teacher.” The award winning stylist’s vision wasn’t completely off scale because through her salon she has paved an avenue to teach a few talented, but not yet licensed hair stylists, the art and business within the profession of hair design. Phatz remembered how the journey began. “We would go to clubs… me, my girlfriends, and my god sisters. I would do our hair. One day we were like, ‘We’re bored… we’re not doing anything. We have to do something.’ We decided to sign up for hair school.” The crew had a plan that could have easily been unful-filled. Sometime after their decision to enroll into cosmetology school Phatz’s god sister was the victim of a brutal shooting. The ladies had been at the Jamaican club, Blue Light, when she was shot in the eye and died.

When Phatz spoke of the incident to Seven Magazine it was evident that the devastation held an insufferable result. Some people face adversities in life by using the pain as an excuse to not face life at all. That was not the spirit of Phatz. She continued with the group’s pledge and went on to cosmetology school. During a point she changed course and studied nursing instead, but her God giving talent and true gift would find its way back into Phatz’s life. “As I was doing my CNA,” Phatz explained, “I ended up getting hooked up in a salon.” Her previ-ous brief experience of cosmetology schooling had introduced Phatz to not just a view of her talent but a genuine admiration for styling hair. “I was dating a guy. His cousin basically saw my styles on her mom and aunts. Then all her family members started coming to me.” The cousin of the friend connected Phatz with the owner of a salon where Phatz was able to complete her cosmetology apprenticeship. “I had went to school for a little while so I had that knowledge. I had started to like doing hair.

I was liking it! Just from going to school for that little bit made me put into

aspect what I was doing already on my girlfriend’s hair. I talked

BY M. YVETTE

with the owner of the salon and she told me I could do apprenticeship there.” Blessed with the gift to not only create hairstyles with immaculate precession and creativity, but to also have the talent to fix and repair. She expressed, “People can have botched up haircuts and bald-spots; I’m that one that can cover, fix it, and make it look like that’s yours.” Phatz began to build her clientele during her apprenticeship and continued to explore as a stylist. During one point she had relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where she worked at DaWeeds Day Spa. Since those days of finding her gifted ability, Phatz has participated in nationally recognized competitions and events; winning numerous awards and has built her branded reputation as a top stylist in the business.

The travels of Phattz II Salon from Hamp-ton to Norfolk have no comparison on the travels of the multi-service hair salon’s founder. Phatz has made it her responsibil-ity to soak up as much knowledge about the ever-evolving fashions of hair. Phatz’s bound-less travels have expanded from New York, California, Atlanta, Miami… the list goes on. She believes in growth and education. As a stylist and an educator of hair Phatz enjoys the experiences and the enlightening lane of hair shows and competitions to the fullest! She doesn’t just attend the shows. She partici-pates and has her fair share of wins! These triumphs are within some of the biggest

competitions. Phatz holds the honor of being the 2007 Milky Way’s Individual Overall Grand Prize Winner, and 3rd place Natural Hair Winner. She ranked victoriously as the 2007 Petersburg, VA Hair Competition’s 1st Place Make-Up Artist Winner. Her participation as a trendsetter of hair and make-up has made the name Phatz a buzz at the Hair-in-Motion 2:38 Stage Presentation, Lawrence Brother Hair Show, and the Patrick Bradley Jam Session – Cutaholic. The trendsetting stylist marked her talents also at 2007 (February) BET’s Rip the Runway, where Phatz created the hair bangs for Mychael Knight. 2010 Phatz was with a team that won the $20,000 prize at the Bronner Brother’s competition. That same night Phatz also won the $2,500 prize for Fantasy. Phatz has received many awards and has graciously given back through her gift as she contributes her time with events such as the cancer benefit, Beautiful Kidz. Phatz is also a sponsor for Hampton University. The entertainment busi-ness has been another area where Phatz is read-ily called on to spread her professionalism as a stylist and make-up artist. She’s had her hands and shears involved with videos for such per-formers as Malice (of the Clipse), Waka Flocka and Diamond Da Rapper, also Lil Scrappy and Stuey Rock’s video; which aired on BET’s 106 and Park. She’s also been the stylist for the Hot 91.1 morning show team.

Phattz II Salon has stylists that can satisfy an array of clientele. The team is made up of

skilled professionals specializing collectively in a multitude of hair designs and styling techniques, male/female haircuts, braiding, eyebrow design, make-up application, and various weave techniques (cap weaves; quick weaves; net weaves; sew-in; sew-in ponytails). Phattz II Salon services clients with proficient hair enhancements, mega hair extensions, and lace front wig application (including wigs for cancer patients and everyday wigs). Phatz could be considered a quadruple threat within the industry of cosmetology; possessing all of the qualifications for styling female and male hair as well as make-up artistry. Whether you just need a do done up for Saturday night, Sunday morning, the work week, a fresh cut, special occasion event, or a stylist and make-up artist for your next video (east coast to the west

coast) then Phatz of Phattz II Salon is the one to get your style on point! PHATTZ II Salon871 N. Military Hwy.Norfolk, VA 23502Shop: 757-455-5577 Cell: 757-218-2580

Glamorous styles was founded in October 2012 by Quensella and Michael Mustafa. Glam-ouros Style is an example of what can be done with the

love and direction from God. He has been a blessing. Thank you to my daughters Laquin and Miasia, all my family and friends,

wonderful stylists, and faithful clients,l ike my very first client Mrs. Martha . My Glamorous Styles hair team consits of Linda, Jessica, and Sheniece. We specialize in cuts, color , weaving, natural styles, children styles and much much more. So make your next hair appointment with the Glamorous Styles hair team. We care about your hair!

Herman Hurston has come to be a household name within Virginia’s radio. His renowned reputation has breached from his travels as a side-splittingly

funny comedian while simultaneously ex-ploring the VA airwaves like no other radio personality in the area. Herman Hurston met with Seven Magazine to have an exclusive talk about his projects as well as what’s piping hot with the new HOT 91.1’s Morning Show. The intimate and engaging conversation would turn out to deliver a day of actually seeing the inner strengths and beliefs of the man behind the microphone. The depth of this funny man digs from the hardships of his childhood in Indiana, serving his country during Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia, to surviving in the seri-ous industry of radio. The man that is known for the quote, “I don’t want no trouble,” has endured life challenging hurdles but has stood true to something he learned as a young boy from a kindergarten teacher: “You can stop a rose from growing; you can nip it in the bud. You can stop a stream from flowing, but you cannot stop a flood, because I’m going to keep coming.”

25 years ago comedian and radio personal-ity, Herman Hurston, somewhat stumbled into what is now his accomplished career. He stated, “. I got into radio accidently. I had never thought about doing radio or television. I worked in the operating room at Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth Naval Hospi-tal. I was working in the medical field.” How would someone who didn’t have any college experience in radio and not even a radio/TV communication’s course ever enter into a world of radio? Herman explained, “I would volunteer to take the comics from the How-ard Johnson Hotel over to the radio station. One day they didn’t show up and they asked me to speak. After I spoke the phones went crazy; people started calling up. The operations manager asked me did I want a job. That’s the honest to goodness truth. I never filled out an application for radio.” This was yet another occurrence that some may call a stroke of good luck for Herman. Comedy, which is now his career platform, had earlier also been an

opportunity of chance. “I didn’t want to do standup comedy,” Herman told Seven Magazine. “I was mad at my girlfriend one night. To keep from getting frustrated with her, I left and worked it out on stage. That’s how I started doing comedy. I won the contest on Little Creek Road at The Royal Blue. I’ve been doing standup comedy for 25 years. I started doing comedy before I went to Desert Storm. When I got back Def Jam had started. I turned off my TV in 1992 and I wouldn’t turn my TV back onto Def Jam until I was over there recording. I recorded with Jamie Fox in 1994.” Herman hadn’t planned any of these roads in life. The map just seemed to have somehow fallen into his lap. However, after talking to Herman one may begin to feel that it wasn’t just luck. Maybe one would say destiny.

Herman talks openly about abuse in his past and pains that has transpired in his life. However, he gives no pity-party. It seems as if those pains have driven him, and since he got through those then he can get through anything. Speaking to Herman I could feel that he lives day by day… with gracious-ness for every day he’s given. One thing that he said was, “I cannot actually say that I can predict the things that I’m doing now.” Herman spoke in his much more serious tone than we all may hear on the HOT 91.1 Morning Show. “I don’t work off plans. A lot of people say they have faith, but I actu-ally live by blind faith… I live everyday by faith! I come this far by faith leading me every day. I’m not a church going person but I believe in the higher power.” Though he made this statement it was almost an oxymoron to how his tone began to absorb me by its preacher-like manner; in which it seems to do whenever Herman begins to speak strongly from his soul. “I just don’t get caught into the rituals of man; the ups and downs and the judgments of minds. People get mad at me because I don’t believe in the dos and don’ts. I don’t believe in rights and wrongs. I could really care less about ups and downs. The only thing that matters to me is what’s possible yet provable.” He sustained with conviction, “People don’t understand. The difference between good

luck and bad luck is preparation. Preparation meeting opportunity is good look. No prepara-tion meeting opportunity is bad luck. That’s how simple it is.” I began to see a glimpse from the navigating compass of Herman’s journey. He then put it out there plain simple, “I take command of things. I take full control of what I am… in full stride. The only thing that I plan is the outer shell of what I do. That’s the only thing I can plan. I plan to have a basis.”The breakdown of creating success by Her-man Hurston: “You cannot direct and program success. You cannot draw and fundamentally makeup success. You cannot create success.”Planned or not planned, there is no denying that Herman Hurston has experienced a sub-stantial share of success and Herman expressed his gratitude, “Many people would have not had these many opportunities in one area. Most people have to travel to be on that many radio stations. I’ve been blessed. So I know it’s my time. No Trouble!” The road has been adventurous for Herman Hurston: 103 JAMZ, WNOR with Tommy and Rumble, working with The Coast, doing The Love Doctor, work-ing with Z104, working with 95.7, and now having his own opportunity with HOT 91.1’s Morning Show.As I sat in the 91.1 studio with Herman “Don’t Want No Trouble” Hurston I was excited to hear what was the fresh twist with the station and its promotions. I myself have found Hot 91.1 being my most listened to station… especially in the mornings. Herman gave me the scoop. “Right now I’m working on rebuild-ing the morning show. We’re working to bring these numbers from a station that has been off the air. That’s my goal. That would put us in the position to beat Steve Harvey and being number one in the market. NSU is the only African American morning radio show here now. So 103 JAMZ is syndicated; they’re bring-ing in the breakfast club. Steve Harvey’s here, then you have Russ Parr, Doug Banks, and Tom Joyner here. So my competition is against myself.” Before Herman arrived to the 91.1 Morning Show the target demographics were for females the ages of 18 to 34. Herman’s target audience seems to be much broader. “My target demographic is 12 plus… 20, 18, 34, 25, 54… men, women, and children. I have no target de-

mographic. My target number is to have as many people as possible.” How do Herman Hurston and the 91.1 team do this? Her-man explains one aspect by merely stating, “That’s called the best variety of hip-hop and R&B.!” He gave an example to proficiently mix in some older favorites within today’s newest tracks. “What I do is give you a joke. I give you a memory of the past and I start singing a few songs. When we reminisce of them songs the program director will come in here and say, ‘Hey! Pull that song up that you were just joking about…’ So we’ll slap it in because it’s on your mind and it’s fresh at that time. That’s how a show becomes number one; Choreography, symmetry, and chemistry, with creativity.” Herman Hurston and the 91.1 team are rebuild-ing the stations brand by creating a more personable station that pays attention to the locals and the community. They are looking to give artists an opportunity to figure out how to develop themselves; learn about the professionalism before they get into radio, and finding out what it takes to actually get into music. Herman Hurston ran down his active agenda. “We’re looking to do a HOT Festival. We’re doing the HOT Sign parties, which is the zodiac sign parties; we do those every month. Comedy-wise I’m working with The Funny Bone [comedy club and restaurant] and some things they’re doing once a month. I’m doing work with BME television. We’re putting together some skits. I’m doing like 9 different characters; and I’m doing all of the characters myself. The show is around the set of Ed Sullivan. I have to take you way back. I do a lot of voices and impressions. So I’ll be doing Ed Sullivan, Robin Leach, Frank Sinatra, Fred Sanford (Red Foxx), Richard Pryor, Bill Cosby, How-ard Cosell, Sammy Davis Jr., and a host of other voices. They’ll be characters that play off each other during the skit. Everything in the whole thing will be me.”Herman let it be known that in his line of business it isn’t always as smooth as it may look. The industry has lessons to learn. “Over the years I’ve had a lot of people that rode my coattail. They would tell me, ‘Herman you’re too mean… you’re too overboard… you do this too much… you do

that too much.’ But whatever I did that wasn’t too much they always stole… to credit them for it, and then had all the excuses about me. Now I’m in the opportunity to show people what I can do from the rough.” He later stated, I know where I come from with 103 JAMZ, and I know where I am with HOT 91. It hasn’t even been a full three months! That’s something that is hardly ever done in the history of radio. I want to continue breaking history.”Through all of the triumphs and controversy that Herman Hurston has experienced it is proven that his focus doesn’t veer much. “I am not religious. But I do praise my father religiously. I make sure I uphold and lift his name everywhere I go. I can tell you that the more you lift his name the more you receive blessings immediately. If you’re a drinker… drink your liquor, but praise him. You’re a smoker… smoke you’re stuff. Praise him. You’re

a crack-head… smoke your rock, but praise him. He’s going to deliver you. There’s a rea-son why you’re going through what you’re going through, but don’t turn your back on him when you’re going through that. They want to praise him when the good come along. Praise him in the good… praise him in the bad. You’ll find out that your bad is sometimes good; and sometimes your good is bad. I don’t want no trouble! I give him praise.”

HOT 91.1 FM Morning Show 6AM-10AM Mon-Friwww.HOT91online.com www.Hermon-Hurston@gmail.com

Though the U.S. economy has been gradually improving, job changes - both involuntary and volun-tary - remain a fact of American working life.

“It’s also a fact that bills need to be paid wheth-er you’re employed or not,” says J.J. Montanaro, a certified financial planner with USAA.To help you cover expenses and protect your finances as you transition from one job to the next, Montanaro offers these tips.

1. Decide how to collect your final pay.2. File for unemployment benefits. It may take two to three weeks to process your claim, so contact your state’s unemployment office pronto.

3. Reduce your spending.4. Strengthen your emergency fund.5. Avoid cleaning your financial slate. While you may be tempted to use your severance or other assets to pay off your car, credit cards or other debt, you may be better off making only the required or minimal pay-ments.6. Review your health insurance options. At most companies, federal law allows you to keep your employer-provided health insur-ance for up to 18 months.7. Protect your retirement. If you have a 401(k) or other employer retirement plan, avoid the temptation to cash it out when you leave.

At this busy time of year, it’s often difficult to get a meal on the ta-ble, especially if you’re multitask-ing. Consider including turkey burgers in your menus.

Here are five easy tips for cooking a delicious meal featuring JENNIE-O turkey burgers. CleanUse warm, soapy water to wash anything raw turkey touches, including cutting boards, plates, countertops, food thermometers, grill-ing utensils and - most importantly - your hands.CookCooking turkey burgers to 165 F helps you achieve the most delicious flavor and the per-fect, never-dry tenderness families love, while also being important for food safety. Never eat under-cooked poultry. Using a meat thermom-eter, such as the iGrill, is the most accurate way to determine when the meat is ready to enjoy.

SeparateUse separate cutting boards for poultry, meat, seafood and vegetables to avoid the spread of bacteria that may cause food-borne illness. Never reuse a raw marinade on cooked poultry.ChillNever thaw poultry at room temperature. Thaw in the refrigerator in sealed containers and keep it no more than two to three days before cooking. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking and eat within one to two days.EnjoyFollowing these simple food safety rules makes it easy to achieve the best possible taste for a delicious meal the entire family will enjoy.

Today’s busy families are always on the go, which means less time for shopping, preparing and eating food. However, there is one thing you can’t skimp on no matter how

fast you’re going, and that’s food safety. From grocery shopping to reheating leftovers, you can use several tips to ensure that the food you eat isn’t going to make you or your family sick. The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has a plethora of information for consumers about how to prevent foodborne illness throughout the year.Pack similar foods together in order to avoid cross contamination - the transfer of pathogens

between one food to another. For example, pack produce together in one bag, and meats in another. Pack a bag of frozen foods and another one for dry goods. If you’re a fan of reusable bags, make sure you’re keeping them clean. Wipe them out, or even throw them in the washing machine on a regular basis to keep them germ free. Whether you cook all your food for the week on Sunday or have extra left at the end of a meal, for many families, leftovers are the key to solving the problem of “what’s for dinner.” Proper handling can ensure that leftovers keep that “first bite” taste, as well as staying delicious and bacteria-free.

If you’re looking to start a career - whether it’s because you’re just begin-ning your journey as a working adult or because you’re ready for a change in life - you should know that the process

is much larger than just getting a degree and looking for a job.A career involves knowing your interests in a particular industry or area, knowing what to expect as far as compensation and responsibil-ity and researching what tools and knowledge you will need to be an asset for companies in that industry. It’s wise to begin your pursuit by educating yourself on what careers are in demand and what skills you need to enter those careers.“Job seekers and students seeking a degree to build their skills need to take control of their careers,” says Abby Kohut, a human resources executive, recruiter and author of “Absolutely Abby’s 101 Job Search Secrets.” “They need to understand the connection between their edu-cation and a meaningful career by becoming more informed about where their interests lie, what jobs are in demand and what education is needed to gain the skills that today’s employers demand.”

Here are few simple steps that can help get you started:1. Understand your interests - Some colleges and universities offer prospective and current students complimentary self-assessment op-tions to help determine careers that fit their in-terests. For example, University of Phoenix of-fers Phoenix Career Services, a comprehensive suite of tools and services specifically designed to help prospective and current students make informed decisions regarding their career paths and educational needs. And the Career Interest Profiler helps students to identify professional interests in several areas, allowing them to plan ahead for paths of study.2. Understand employer needs - Knowing what jobs will keep your interest going strong

is a good start, but it’s also important to learn what employers need from workers in that field so you can take the right college courses and learn the appropriate skills. You also should learn what jobs are in demand in your field of interest, so you can assess whether your career of choice offers room to enter and grow. University of Phoenix’s Job Market Research Tool helps potential and ex-isting students learn the demand and typical salary information in the current market.3. Understand educational needs - Start-ing a new career often involves the need to return to school for a new degree so you can be more competitive when entering the job market. My Career Plan is a personalized roadmap that University of Phoenix students incorporate into their academic journey so they are developing the competencies that employers are seeking in the workforce today. And career preparation tools provide students with resume, cover letter and inter-view development services so they can put the best foot forward while job searching.4. Understand your financial responsibili-ties - Schools will provide information on financial obligations and options, helping potential students determine if starting or going back to school is a viable option at the moment. Having a clear picture of the total cost and anticipated timing for paying off a college expense can help you set a budget as you pursue your new career goals. University of Phoenix, for instance, offers a complimen-tary Financial Plan designed to help prospec-tive students estimate tuition and fees for their entire degree program and build a personal plan for how they will pay for it.A new career is an exciting opportunity, and can provide a new look on life from income to social connections and even where you live. Just be sure to educate yourself before you jump into schooling so you can prepare yourself for the perfect career.

It may come as a surprise to young engaged couples, but the excitement of the wedding and honeymoon doesn’t end when it’s all over. In fact, after the honeymoon, it’s time to roll up your

sleeves and plan the big move – the joining of two households.

Many newlyweds face the chore of merging furniture, kitchen equipment and closet space from two households. To start your moving process off on the right foot, consider eliminat-ing duplicate items and having a garage sale, or donating items, before beginning the packing process. It’s a great chance to upgrade house-

hold furnishings – especially if you received something new as a wedding gift.

Then determine what size of moving truck you’ll need. A good rule is to plan for 150 cubic feet of space for every fully furnished room. Many young couples moving from a small apartment or condo into a larger first home will find a 12- or 16-foot Penske rental truck more than adequate. Plan to reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance. Penske Truck Rental offers rental discounts for AAA members to help young couples with savings.

Fights over finances are a leading cause of stress and divorce, yet a new survey indicates that while the average couple fights over money five times a year, they

discuss finances rationally fewer than two times a month.

The survey conducted by TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation and LearnVest, found that couples today face three top concerns when it comes to their finances: Not having enough money to retire (27 percent), not having enough money to live as they wish (25 percent), and not having enough mon-ey to even live comfortably (24 percent).

Trust over money also emerged as a big issue. Forty percent of respondents do not completely trust their partner to manage their combined finances. Just over one in five (21 percent) admit they sometimes hide their spending from their partner. Thirty-eight percent say they are either unaware or only partially aware of their mate’s debts. Perhaps they feel that igno-rance is bliss.

More people are marrying later in life, so one or both partners may enter the union with a 401(k), IRA or other investment ac-counts. It’s important to discuss long-term retirement savings goals, and understand how you both plan to manage these ac-

counts. Websites like TD Ameritrade’s Life 2.0 and TD Ameritrade’s Retirement Planning Resource Center can help by offering access to free resources like retirement calculators and portfolio planners.

Nearly a quarter of those who drop out of high school cite a lack of parental support or en-couragement as their chief rea-son, according to the 2012 High

School Dropouts in America survey conducted by Harris/Decima on behalf of Everest College. Becoming a parent prompted 21 percent to drop out, and missing too many days of school influenced 17 percent.

The Everest College survey indicates that dropping out of high school creates new issues for dropouts, including unemployment and a lack of career potential. Only a third of those surveyed were employed, either full-time, part-time or self-employed. And of those who were working, 46 percent said they had little or no

prospects for advancing in their current jobs.A GED credential can be a second chance for dropouts, granting them access to higher ed-ucation and better job prospects. All 50 states recognize the General Educational Develop-ment (GED) credential, and GED testing is available year-round. Many GED-seekers find value in preparation courses such as Everest’s recently launched GED Advantage. The GED test prep and credential comple-tion program is free and open to the public. Call (888) 201-6547 to learn more about the program. After completing a prep course and achieving their GED, students will be better poised to enter degree programs for high-demand fields such as health care or law. For more information on Everest’s GED Advantage, log on to www.everest.edu.

Where is Another Level College located?Another Level College is located at 617 W 35th Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23508 and can be contacted by calling (757) 305-8195.

How long has Another Level been in business?A.L.C. was founded 8 years ago and for many years the business was located in Virginia Beach. Since A.L.C. has opened its doors in the Park Place area of Norfolk we have been embraced by the community and accepted as one of their own. Another Level College, has become a vibrant and thriving business within the Park Place community.

What type of training does cosmetology pro-gram include?Cosmetology is “the study or art in cosmet-ics and their use”. It has also been defined as “serving to beautify the body and improve the appearance of a physical feature.” Cosmetology

is a broad term that is used to encompass a wide range of beauty mediums, including hair, skin, nails, and makeup. When you are obtaining a cosmetology education, chances are you will concentrate your stud-ies in a particular area, such as nail health, manicures and pedicures, or hair styling, make-up, barbering or braiding. Our stu-dents are educated in:How to analyze face shape and body type to make an appropriate recommendation forhair style or makeup application. The basics of hair cutting and shaping using clippers, scissors and shapers (razors) as well as all aspects of hair care. This includes proper cleansing and conditioning agents, correct shampooing technique, how to properly apply chemical agents for color, straighten-ing or permanent waving of the hair, the use of styling aids and tools and how to perform a scalp massage How to identify

Another level college of cosmetol-ogy was founded 8 years ago by owner Carla Graham. ALCC was previously located in Virginia beach, but has recently relo-

cated to the city of Norfolk in the Park Place community. Park Place has been known for many things, but now ALCC proudly boasts about the overwhelming support the college has received from the community. ALCC says that the residents of Park Place have welcomed them with open arms. Since relocating to Norfolk18 months ago, ALCC has registered nearly 100 new students from the Park Place community. Not only has ALCC brought a thriving black owned business to the com-munity but they have also become a beacon of hope for those who are looking to learn new skills, increase their income potential, gain employment and start a career in cosmetology. Its all possible at at Another Level College of Cosmetology!

and recommend proper treatment for scalp and minor skin conditions and, when appropriate, to refer the patron to a qualified medical pro-fessional Skin care, including proper cleansing techniques and preparations for all different skin types, black head removal, facial masks and toners as well as how to administer a facialmassage Makeup and cosmetic applicationsHow to perform a manicure and pedicure, hand and foot massage, the use of nailpolishes, how to apply various types of artificial nails, decals and other nail art Sanitation prac-tices for implements used on patrons (combs, brushes, scissors, etc.), and good salon hygiene to prevent the spread of disease or infection

Do you need to have a GED or a High School diploma to attend Anther Level School ofCosmetology?As long as you are enrolled in a GED program you can enroll in classes. If you aren’t enrolledin GED classes please don’t let that stop you from contacting us. We have resources within the community to help you to get your career in cosmetology started.

What other services does Another Level Col-lege offer?A.L.C. offers a variety of beauty services for welcomed guests of our cosmetology school. On Tuesdays we offer _____for $___and Blow-outs for $15. Our students are highly trained and use only professional products, and charge for only the cost of the services. Appointments and walk- ins are welcomed and your patron-age is greatly appreciated and also aids our students to flex their creative muscle, gain cus-tomer and service training, as well as, acquire real-world experience their chosen profession. All services are performed by senior students under the supervision of licensed educators.

How involved is Another Level of Cosmetology with the community?We offer a Beauty Camp on Tuesday nights for girls ages 7 to 17. Our motto is, “We areinspirational women inspiring young girls.” In our community we tend to stick to the same things which tend to lead to limited experi-ences. We are committed to broadening their experiences by adding to their childhood expe-rience. Our Beauty Camp teaches young ladies how to care for

themselves. We teach them about personal hygiene, hair, and etiquette, and differ-ent languages. We take them horseback riding and take them to restaurants to expose them to different types of foods. We participate and support events that help the homeless and elderly. We are a community based business and we look forward to op-portunities to give back to the community

What new ventures will be taken on in 2013?Beauty on 35th is a new boutique that we are opening at 619 W. 35th Street, Norfolk, VA. The grand opening will take place on April 12th and April 13th. On the 12th we will have a community day that will feature a play by our very own Beauty Boot Camp, along with gospel artists and R&B artists including Levi from Black Street and The King of Hair Girard Dure. We are proud to announce that all of the designers featured at Beauty on 35th participate in New York Fashion Week and are at the top of the game. Beauty on 35th will offer unique de-signer one-of-a-kind fashion. In addition, if our patrons would like to have a hand in designing their clothing, Beauty on 35th will be staffed with a talented sketch artist that will help our patrons to bring their fashion concepts to life.