Questions have been asked as to who is behind the chicness of
Teen Chic Magazine and here’s your opportunity to find out.

C’na Roberts, Editor-in-Chief
Teen Chic Magazine has its very own Renaissance Woman! Our Editor-in-Chief received her degree from the Dan Rather School of Mass Communications at Sam Houston State University in Journalism and Photography. C’na is not only the boss but she is also a skilled Photographer and was honored as being one of Houston’s Top Thirty Under 30 by Houston Style Magazine.

Latasia Turner, Creative Director
Latasia is one of the chicest, organized, confident and savviest Creative Director’s that anyone can ask for. Latasia is someone that is imperative to Teen Chic Magazine and we love this awesome multi-taker. In 2005, she was honored as one of Houston’s Top Thirty Under 30 by Houston Style Magazine and she is also a graduate of Sam Houston State University.

Stephanie A. Catchings, Health & Beauty Editor
Stephanie is one of the nicest girlie girls that anyone could ever meet! She’s a Houston native and graduate from Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana with a degree in Mass Communications. Stephanie believes that Beauty definitely goes beyond skin deep because mental fitness and external physique directly affect how others view and appreciate you as a person.

Mical J. Roy, Entertainment Editor
Have you ever came across someone and they were like the coolest person you could ever meet? Well, meet Mical J. Roy our very own inside scoop to music, events, movies and fun! A proud graduate of the Dan Rather School of Mass Communications, Mical is also pursuing his Master’s in Professional Communication and Technical Writing. 

Chanteau Garrett, Fashion Editor
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Fashion Merchandising, Chanteau’s number passion is fashion and she is currently working on designing her own clothing line. Talk about having our very own FASHIONISTA on staff…She also loves training aspiring models with the tools to succeed in the fashion industry and plans on taking over this fashion industry one fashion disaster at a time!

Shauna Lanea, Feature Writer
A Public Relations major at Houston Community College, Shauna found her calling for writing five years ago by writing poetry and short stories. In 2003, she won an Editor’s Choice Award allowing her to become a published poet. With Shauna’s eagerness to help out and write on any topic given to her, she is a great asset to our magazine.

Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer
This native Houstonian has a strong passion for writing, fashion and politics. Audreyanna is a graduate of Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX and in addition to being a Feature Writer with Teen Chic Magazine she is also a published author. In 2007 she wrote and published the ever popular PoeTically SpeaKing, a poetry collage and is currently working on her second book.

Inez Woody, Feature Writer
Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Inez is an abiitious freelance writer and editor with more than 7 years of experience. As a former Editor at Large for Vassarmagazine.com, Inez has a passion for writing, volunteering and mentoring youth. She is a Co-Founder of a Chicago based women’s organization which was started in 2003.

I

Madison Jones, Feature Writer
MJ is a Dallas, TX native with a powerful passion for communicating with others through pen and paper or better yet, keyboard to screen. A true communicator, MJ has no problem sparking conversations and writing on whatever topic is thrown her way.

Jeremy Phillips, Wardrobe Stylist
Owner of the clothing line Creative Resurrection of Style Success (C.R.O.S.S.), this 80’s baby is a fascinated with the fact that hip/hop and fashion can coexist so easily. Jeremy is a well known stylist, model and clothing designer who enjoys live music, going to art exhibits and museums.

Courtney Evans, Wardrobe Stylist
This New Yorker brings swag to styling like no one else. Whether you are looking for classic chic to street chic, Court is your girl for the job.

Ashton Grigsby, Intern
Ashton is the youngest member of the Teen Chic Magazine’s staff with such an open mind that he is absorbing this experience like a sponge.

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

Most are aware that Obama’s campaign was situated to bringing great CHANGE for America. Have you taken the opportunity to enlighten yourself on what that CHANGE entails?

Obama’s plan for America is greatly encouraged by his motivation to encourage Americans to believe that we can influence change and encourage better alternatives in Washington.

In unanimity with Biden, Obama has constructed several new plans that cause for restructure of education programs through the establishment of programs and schools that emphasize early education. The Obama-Biden plan for education includes the implementation of the “Zero to Five plan.” This plan will encourage early education for infants and toddlers to ensure that they are ready for kindergarten. Obama would like to issue grants to promote pre-school admissions.

“No Child Left Behind” is a plan that will restructure curriculum so that it is not solely structured on excelling on standardized tests. The assessments will be revamped to detect each individual students progress to appropriately determine their readiness for the subsequent institution, whether that is middle school, high school, specoalized academies or college. As far as education on a collegiate level, Obama will implement creation of a tax credit in exchange for community service so that college is more affordable and accessible for Americans. This will encourage higher education and develop an incredibly necessary standard.

Obama will provide economical reliefm through tax cuts, the creation of jobs, support of small businesses, reduction of mortgage fraud and many additional plans of action. Obama believes that the redirection of tax cuts from wealthy Americans to the middle class working families will provide Americans with a well needed relief and equality will be reinstated to the tax code. He will jump start the economy with the implementation of a Windfall Profits Tax* to supply $1,000 of immediate assistance to aid with rising bills, the Emergency Energy Rebate. Obama also wants to provide 50 million dollars to the economy to prevent 1 million people from loosing their jobs. He plans to eliminate income tax for senior citizens making less than $50,000 per year, simplify filing for middle class Americans, eliminate bankruptcy loopholes for mortgage companies and raise minimum wage.

President Elect Barack Obama has proven to the United States of America that he is a man of great intelligence and moral fiber. As it is important to elect Presidential Candidates on character, it is equally important to be in tune with your candidate’s views on the country’s issues. Continue to educate yourself on the issues because you have the power to promore great change.

“I’m asking you to believe. Not just in my ability to bring about real change in Washington…I’m asking you to believe in your.”
-President Elect, Barack Obama

Verification of this information along with more information on Obama’s Plan for America can me found on www.barackobama.com/index.php

*A higher tax rate on profits that ensue from unexpected profits (i.e. lottery, inheritance, etc.)

By Chanteau Garrett, Fashion Editor

Fashion is just not pieces of clothing; it’s a movement, a fraction of our imagination that can take us anywhere and everywhere. Some people might see it as life, style, culture or a unique design that describes them in so many words. Fashion is not an object that forces us to choose it for unnecessary reasons but it is an object that we choose to express ourselves to the world. Look good and pay less, find the stylish fashions for the upcoming season with the click of one button.

Great Buys Under $50.00

By: Mical J. Roy, Entertainment Editor

Violins have always been associated with high class debutantes and their driven socialite mothers who force them off to Julliard in the blink of an eye. An instrument that exudes the utmost in poise, dignity and class. Its never been thought of as an instrument that could bring funk, soul, and dare I say Hip Hop into the picture. Or has it?

A couple of days of playing phone tag with the publicist for these Jamaica Queens, New York born brothers, I was starting to doubt my real potential. I’d spoken with there PR Reps via e-mail several times, and we’d agreed upon a date and time. A couple of times, they’d call me and I’d miss the call, and when I called back I couldn’t reach them, and so we’d start again from square one.

Damien and Tourie Escobar of Nuttin but Stringz were introduced to me on accident, but then again, I’m often under the assumption that this was by no means a mishap. On an easy night I was sitting at home flipping through channels as I often do, in search of something good to watch on TV. I’d recently purchased a barbecue pit, and stopped flipping through the stations so I could check on the meat I had on the grill. I must have stopped on America’s Got Talent, another reality show where contestants compete for a title and win a lavish prize.

As I closed the top on the barbecue pit, I was summoned to the television by strings and what sounded like musical thunder. I immediately sat there on the couch in total shock, as I witness two young men, playing these violins as though they were base drums, or a saxophone. It was mind blowing, and as I sat there, I realized, like so many others, I was hooked. Not hooked on the show, but hooked on what I’d just witnessed. I had to find a way to get in touch with these violin twins, a name I gave them before I realized they were just brothers who looked almost identical.

That night, I pulled their website up on my laptop, in search of more information. Perhaps the whole world knew about these fellas, and it was I, who was late. I was quickly brought up to speed, as I learned there journey didn’t began on America’s Got Talent, much rather this was a bit of a mid point. Nuttin but Stringz got their big break in 2005 when they entered a local talent contest at The Apollo in Harlem, and won. Since then these men, have been anywhere from, The Tonight Show, with Jay Leno, all the way to The White House.

Back to square one, and this time, I’m sure it will come to pass. I sit patiently on my patio, watching the skyscrapers downtown. The sun has set, the sky is hiding amidst the silver lined clouds, and amidst the jazz blaring from my 1920’s inspired record player, my cell rings. “Mical Roy”, his publicist solicits. “This is”, I rebuttal. “OK, I’m going to connect you to the guys ok” and I tell her, I’m ready to roll. Just like that, the phone clicked, and there they were. I’d just watched them on TV what must have seemed like minutes ago, and now I would be interviewing them for all the chic readers.

TCM: How long have you all been playing the violin?

Tourie: Well, ummm about 12 to 15 years.

TCM: What would you say inspired you to get into it?

Tourie: We had to take it in our Elementary School, it was a requirement and the love for the instrument just kept that motivation going.

TCM: So okay tell me, where did the name come from?

Tourie: Well really when the time came that we needed to establish ourselves as musicians, we knew we needed to come up with a name, and we threw around nuttin but skillz, nuttin but success, and we really liked Nuttin but Stringz, so that’s the one we chose to ride with.

TCM: That’s interesting man. Tell me, what can you tell our readers about the importance of voting?

Tourie: Awe man, it’s like this, you know especially the way the economy and the world is right now, its important that we go out there and express ourselves through voting.

TCM: How important is family and education to the both of you?

Tourie: Family and education is very important. It’s family that helped us when we didn’t want to get up and pursue that education. If you’re not educated you won’t be able to get out there and have certain things. When you feel like dropping out, it’s your mom that’s telling you, you can do it. Having a strong solid family foundation is the key.

TCM: I know that your mother had to be your biggest fan, how does she feel about your talent?

Tourie: Ya know, we were raised by two strong beautiful black women, our mother, Gloria Ponder, and our aunt, Gayle Ponder. Right now, they’re real overwhelmed by the response that we’re getting. From the start because Nuttin but Stringz has been around for awhile, but once we started doing it, it gave them a reason to walk around with their head up and be proud of their black sons.

TCM: Name something that you cant live without?

Tourie: I can’t live without my violin (Damien yells into the phone he can’t live without his daughter).

TCM: How have you guys dealt with friends or schoolmates who may have tried to taunt you all for the instrument you’ve decided to play and how would you tell our teenage readers to deal with negativity from peers?

Tourie: You’re gonna go through it, but “we need more leaders”. In order to be a leader, you have to “put your stamp on it”. We’ve heard it all, sissy instrument the whole nine, but at the end of the day, you have to believe in yourself. People will be people, and there will always be naysayers.

For more information on Nuttin but Stringz please visit them at www.nuttinbutstringz.com and/or email them at nbsbookings@gmail.com.

Stay Chic. Stay True.

By Stephanie A. Catchings, Health & Beauty Editor

There is an old saying that goes, “Eyes are the windows to the soul.” Well if that really is the case, you’d better make sure that your windows have some good curtains to make your soul outstanding!

Eyeshadow is an important makeup accessory because a little bit of color applied in the right way can do wonders to enhance your personal style. Cindy Fernandez, an Independent Senior Sales Director for Mary Kay provides teens with some helpful tips in applying eye makeup for daily wear or special occasions.

1. Always begin with a clean washed face
2. Use an eyeliner applicator for precise color placement and a brush for a more even application
3. Finish the look by applying mascara and eyeliner after applying the eye shadow

4. Never share eyeliner or mascara

Below are popular shades from Mary Kay Cosmetics to help you achieve three distinct looks.

Color #1 - Use a light color like Sweet Cream (labeled 1), to soften the eye.

Color #2 - Select a darker tone Sienna (labeled 2) to add drama to the area nearest to the brow.

Color #3 - Add a shimmery dark tone as Granite to dazzle your audience.

Maintain the Natural Look for everyday wear.

Try the Classic Look for a night out on the town.

Get jazzy with the Dramatic Look at your winter formal or prom.

Still unsure about which look is best for you? Test the waters before you dive in. Visit www.marykay.com/cindyhere4u and click on the Virtual Makeover tab. Then upload your picture or use the models provided by the site. One you find the look that you love, wear it with confidence and know that you are super chic!

· Sleeping On the Job

My best friend and I decided to have a sleepover one night because she was highly stressed with school and we thought a sleep over would do the trick to relaxation. Well, we are both spiritual and believe in praying about it and letting it go. That night we were in my room getting ready for bed and she said, “I have a lot to pray about, so please don’t disturb me.” So as time passed, 10 minutes to 20 minutes, I just thought that she had a lot to let go of. Well, come to find out she wakes up 45 minutes later with hurting knees and she asked, “Why didn’t you wake me up?” And I replied, “I thought you had a lot on your mind.” We still laugh about that to this day.

Ari  - Atlanta, GA

· Tampon to the Rescue…NOT!

So, it’s the day of Cheerleader Try-Outs and I started my cycle right before I had to go on stage to audition in front of the judges. Talk about nervous…A friend of mine recommended that I put on a tampon but I had never worn one so I was unsure of how to actually put one on. So after several attempts, I finally think that I have it right and rush into tryouts. My form was perfect and tryouts went excellent but afterwords, the coach pulled me to the side and said, “Next time, please wear shorts because we could see your tampon string hanging out during jumps…” Talk about an OMG moment!

Crystal – Newark, NJ

· Silent But Deadly

I use to work at the drive-thru of a fast food restaurant and of course we would always eat the food during down time. One day after snacking, my stomach was hurting so bad that I passed gas at the window thinking that no one would come behind me. As I was walking away from the window, my Manager comes up behind me and say’s “Why does it stink over here?” Trying to think on my feet, I said, “It’s probably the grill.” Needless to say, that was the day that I stop eating at that fast food restaurant.

Shelby – Dallas, TX

· Can We Say PJ’s Anyone?

At the end of the school year, one of my teachers invited all students that were in a club that she started to her house for a party. I was so excited because this guy that I really liked was going to be there. In order for me and my two friends to go to the party, my dad made us agree to get a ride home so that he wouldn’t have to come pick us up. My friend said that her mom would bring us back, so we were off to the party with our plan in place. We were having a great time with our classmates, but we were even happier to hang with the guys we had crushes for.

When the party started winding down, my friend went to call her mom to come and get us. The problem was that her mom would not answer the phone. My other friend’s parents would not pick up either. So I was left to do the unthinkable. I had to wake my dad from his sleep, ask him to come and get us, and drop them off at their houses before returning home.

“Be ready,” was his reply. Either those guys hypnotized me or the anger made him drive faster than usual because when the doorbell rang, I didn’t know it was him until I heard the voice say, “Hi, how are you? Do you mind if I come in? I want to see what is so good about this party that my daughter, who I told specifically before she left home to ‘get a ride,’ had to wake me out of my peaceful sleep to pick her and her friends up!”

I jumped up from my seat and headed for the door, hoping to get there before he could be seen but I was too late. As I rounded the corner, I saw him in a raggedy pajama t-shirt with a run going down the front like ruined pantyhose, the pocket half torn off, and a rip in the v-neck so that his chest hair peeked out from beneath the fabric. Aside from his pants being baggy and a completely different color pattern than his shirt, his moccasin-style house shoes were worn and not even all the way on his feet. I was mortified. I felt the heat climb toward my face turning my cheeks a lovely shade of red.

Shaun - Houston, TX

Think those stories were funny? Do you think that you can top their Oops, My Bad moments? Prove it! Submit your funny or embarrassing story to info@teenchicmag.com with your first name and the city and state of where you are from.

By Madison Jones, Feature Writer

This was the first FASHION PHOTO SHOOT for Teen Chic Magazine and it was truly a hit! Teen Chic Magazine would like to give special thanks to the following companies, vendors and friends who made this shoot such a success. For those chic readers that just can’t wait for the photos from our Fashion shoots, check us out at our blog as they are the first ones to be informed.

SPECIAL THANKS:

Angel Guerrero of Par l’ange Photography
Janice Sibley-Reid of Hair Gallery Unlimited, Inc.
Michelle of Flaunt Makeup
The Office Bar & Lounge
Swatch Watch
Claire’s
Snooty Girl Boutique
Justin of Mighty Fine Clothing
Payless ShoeSource
Harajuku Loft
La Promenade Boutique

Fashion Editor: Chanteau Garrett
Creative Director: Latas’ Turner
Sylists: Courtney Evans & Jemery Phillips
Entertainment Editor: Mical J. Roy
Financial Advisor: Kristal Daugherty
Interns: Ashton & Brianna
Assistant: Carii Stanfield
Prop Crew: Leon Roberts & Cory Stanfield
Models: Chasity, Denzel and Amber

-Please check out the photos from our Holiday 08 Fashion Shoot:

By: Madison Jones, Feature Writer

By: Stephanie Catchings, Health & Beauty Editor

TCM: Your company is named based on who you are - what does being Carol’s Daughter entail?

LISA: Being Carol’s Daughter means loving yourself and others. It means having the courage to follow your passions and to know that hard work can make your dreams a reality. I am so blessed to be Carol’s Daughter and to have had the support of my mother while working to create my brand.

TCM: Tell me about the passion you had in starting Carol’s Daughter.

LISA: My love for fragrance began when I was a little girl. I started creating my own scents and creams because I loved to experiment-it’s always been a hobby and passion of mine. When I realized that it could also be a business, I began working to make my dreams come true.

TCM: Why might the Carol’s Daughter products be better for people of color than other products?

LISA: The Carol’s Daughter line includes over 100 unique products for face, hair, body and home - allowing for product combination’s and possibilities for every man, woman and child regardless of skin type, tone or need. The healthy ingredients in all of my products mean that they naturally nourish and hydrate, inside and out.

TCM: How are your ingredients different from the ingredients in other cosmetic products?

LISA: My products have “good-for-you” ingredients that are inspired by nature and love.  You will not find any parabens, sodium laureth sulfates, petroleum or mineral oil in any of my products.

TCM: At what age should young people begin using skin care products?

LISA: My mother began taking care of my skin as a baby and I can bet that her mother also started then.  Skin is our largest organ and it deserves special TLC - it works so hard to keep us healthy, soft and vibrant.

TCM: Should skin care products be used even if there are no obvious skin problems?

LISA: Of course - skin requires the necessary hydration for it to protect us properly.  Our products are designed to exfoliate, hydrate and nurture skin.

TCM: Describe the effects of Carol’s Daughter products on different hair types.

LISA: Normal to dry hair will be super-conditioned, as the products infuse strands with moisture and sheen. Excess oils are reduced in oily hair.

TCM: The Candy Paint Lip Gloss has some wonderfully bold hues and the fragrance line has lots of versatility. Do you play an active role in their creation?

LISA: I am intensely involved in the creation of all Carol’s Daughter products from beginning to end, giving my input on everything from scent to color.

TCM: Since the Carol’s Daughter products are made from natural ingredients, would you say that diet also plays a role in healthy skin and hair?

LISA: Of course it does. I’ve always heard that a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits with plenty of water helps skin maintain clarity.

TCM: If so, what foods do you think promote or enhance healthy skin and hair?

LISA: See above

TCM: Your products have been endorsed by Jay-Z, Jada Pinkett Smith, Brad Pitt, and others. How did they come to know and love your products, and how do you feel considering your company began in your kitchen?

LISA: All of our friends of the family learned about Carol’s Daughter through word of mouth.   DJ Jazzy Jeff told Will Smith and Jada about my products, and everything just took off from there. Like the formulas themselves, the buzz has been homegrown and the product of love.

TCM: I’ve noticed a Carol’s Daughter counter at Dillard’s, Macy’s, and Sephora stores, when did that come about, and are there any other expansion plans?

LISA: Carol’s Daughter’s first boutique opened in 1999 in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn and the flagship store on 125th Street opened in 2005.  Since then we have opened stores in Roosevelt Field, Los Angeles, Jersey City, Maryland and another location in Atlantic Station in Brooklyn as well as TK counters in Macy’s, Dillard’s and Sephora.  We plan on expanding to…

TCM: What is your favorite Carol’s Daughter product?

LISA: I love all of my products, but I especially love Hair Milk. If I were trapped on a desert island, the one thing I could not do without is Hair Milk. It is the only product I have found that can make my hair shiny and manageable.

TCM: You took your passion and created products that combined your self-confidence with your knowledge and passion. What advice do you have for teens that want to do the same with a product or idea of their own?

LISA: When it comes to success, ignorance is not bliss. Knowledge is the key ingredient in my recipe for success. Find the lesson in each experience and grow from it. With *that* recipe, you will never fail.

By: Mical J. Roy, Entertainment Editor

After much anticipation, I had the opportunity to sit down with Texas born and raised L.A., an up and coming artist to certainly be on the lookout for. With the perfect mix of charisma, personality and sheer genius, it’s no wonder this lyricist is well on his way if he is not already there.

L.A. born Larry Allen has been working with beats since 2000 and his roots span as far back as 4 years old participating in school plays, concertts, etc. When asked how he defines himself as it pertains to his artistry, he said simply this, “I would define myself as the word trifecta. Not only am I a writer but I’m also an entertainer and producer.”

 In this day and age when determining the difference between rappers and artists is more and more difficult to achieve, it was good to hear what L.A.’s thoughts were on the issue. He says that artist are up for more of a challenge when it comes to their music and won’t settle for just free-styling. It’s all about cultivating the sound and birthing something different, something that will stick. “People need music that they literally can’t live without”, says this up and comer.

Speaking of things that one can’t live without, I thought I’d ask L.A. to give me a couple of things he just can’t leave behind, some “must have’s” if you will. In true musician fashion, he responded with “My instruments and food.”

Musically, we can expect an earful (literally) from this one man band stand along with his label 500 Block Entertainment/Funkboxmusic. The label also has an up and clothing line on the risewhich is already approved and scheduled to hit stores locally soon.

You can check out L.A. on YouTube by searching L.A. Funk Box and you can hear him on the Houston nightlife scene and if you’re in Los Angeles his latest track is in heavy rotation out there.

Finding it hard to resist, I had to get a little extra info on the artist, as I always do, just so we have a window into their lives. I was able to squeeze some pretty good info out of L.A. when I asked him to tell our readers something they may not have known about him.

How pleased was I to find out that L.A. plays all brass and precussion instruments as well as the piano and some woodwind instruments. Listen up chic readers, L.A. impressively has a Bachelor’s degree in Music as well as a Master’s degree in Sociology. So for all who may not be sure…SCHOOL IS COOL and a lot of people’s favorite artists went to college. His lists of favorite artists include Quincy Jones to George Michael and all the way to Z-Ro. L.A. realized that rapping was for him after he and some friends hooked up in High School in an effort to get the musical ball rolling.

L.A.’s musical journey has been great and he’s met so many people and seen so many places. His advice to any up and coming artist is to stay true to yourself and your music and stay hungry. Seek higher EDUCATION and use your time and talent wisely because tomorrow’s not promised and life gets harder and harder as each generation burst on the scene.

 his parting phrase, “When they say it doesn’t happen overnight, they really mean it!”

If you would like to be featured in our Artist Spotlight, please contact Mical J. Roy via email at Editorial@TeenChicMag.com with the subject line: Artist Spotlight. 

By Mical J. Roy, Entertainment Editor

Deep in Houston’s posh River Oaks neighborhood, there I sat waiting patiently for the one and only Sean Williams. It was a breezy day, perfectly set for an interview that would soon become one of my very first with Teen Chic Magazine.

My phone rings, blazing loudly over the backdrop of music that was so intimately playing around me as I sat inside the Starbucks awaiting my guests. “Hey Mical, it’s me Sean’s publicist and I just wanted to let you know that I’m stuck in traffic  and I will be a few minutes late.” Alyssa Green, one of the most interesting and driven women I’ve come to know, has always been so perfectly organized in terms of making sure her client has what he needs. In what must have seemed like moments later, Williams accompanied by his publicist, Ms. Green paced into the building seeming to be unaffected by the stiff environment I’d come to know briefly.

“Hey man, how are you?” Sean said as cool as he pleased. I replied, “Doing good man, nice to finally meet you.” His publist immediately insisted that she sit quietly to the side, only there to observe and make sure her client had what he needed.

It seemed lile we had known each other forever and we got comfortable with conversation about music, politics, style, nightlife and essentially the everyday hustle and bustle that often make ya go…hmmmm! I realized quickly though this was an interview, it would not be boring and uptight, as some can be, but much rather it would be a recorded rap session in which I could display to all the Teen Chic Magazine readers so please enjoy.

“I wont make it more complicated than it is:, I told Sean a college graduate from the University of Houston. He quickly jumps into letting me know that entertainment has always been a passion. Williams told me about the itch that he could never get rid of and though he knew he always wanted to act, he also knew that higher education was essential to breaking ground anywhere in life. In this day in age, we both agreed that a degree is a must!

Williams, a many of many crafts often seen smiling endlessly on www.indmix.com, a marketing organization that he is affilated with behind the scenes as well. He said that he believes firmly in living for now and taking a strong shot at every chance given. It’s this same thought that took the U of H Alum to Los Angeles, California where he participated in several independent plays and really took the opportunity as a sponge, sucking in as much of the entertainment fundamentals as one could possibly retain.

His persona is certainly the reason he’s been propelled to so many levels of success. High in confidence, with an equal does of humility, its no wonder he has been afforded opportunities as an Entertainment Anchor at Hampton University, acting in plays and short features and becoming a prestigous member of Houston’s own 97.9 The Boxx and much more.

Currently, Sean is aggressively pursuing bringing Improv night to Houston. It’s a market that is so big on the West Coast, though not yet tapped in the Dirty South. Sean Will is into hosting and one day plans to host the Emmy’s. Even in his future endeavors, I notice he NEVER says, “this is something I want to do”, but boasts, “this is something I will do”. Being raised that speaking things into existence is key, I immediately identify with his train of thought and I understand how he has made it this far with such an intrigue way of thinking.

When asked why teen years are so important to a person’s evolution, Sean Will responded swiftly, saying that these are the years where you are really trying to figure things out. These are the years when you are going through things mentally and physically. In your teen years, you have little responsibility and teens should really sit back and assess what they truly want to do with their life. He adds, it’s equally important to have fun and enjoy these years, thus keeping a level head.

The struggle is all about the perseverance and the end result, Williams demurs. He insists that you can never fully understand what Heaven is unless you have been through Hell. A powerful statement that holds pure certainty. Though life may not necessarily be a crystal star for you, or what you’d perceived it would be, keeping pushing, keep pressing and keep praying. It’s this mantra that’s taken him from his valley to his mountain top and in time beyond.

For more information on Sean Williams, please visit him at www.myspace.com/willisniceguy.

Stay Chic, Stay True!

By: Madison Jones, Feature Writer

Boys sometimes send us girls the most confusing signals and because of that, Teen Chic Magazine has decided to ask guys the questions that we sometimes never have enough courage to ask.

Question of the Month?

How long do you have to be with a girl in order to buy her a Christmas gift and what would you like in return?

“I have to be with a girl for at least one month and I expect nothing but love back.”

“I would have to be with a girl for at least two weeks before I get her a gift  and she could get me cologne for Christmas.”

“It does not matter how long we are together for me to get her something for Christmas and I would not expect her to get me anything.”

“I would have to be with a girl for one month before I get her something for Christmas and she can get me whatever.”

“I would have to be with a girl for at least two months before I buy her a gift for Christmas and I would like for her to give me money.”

“It is no limit, I spoil my girlfriend but I would have to say about a day and she can give me anything from the heart.”

By Shauna Lanea’, Feature Writer

Abuse is not love…This is the story of me and Tony

The day he hit me is the day I realized that I needed a change. My name is Christine Marie and this is my story of a teenage abusive relationship. I couldn’t believe that we started arguing over something so petty that lead to something so much more.

Tony and I dated for 7 months and it was love at first sight (or so I thought). Tony would shower me with gifts, unexpected trips to places I have never been before and there were even upfront confessions of him being in love with me. He said all the right things at all the right times and with me just coming out of a long distance relationship it was what I thought I needed. Nothing he ever did would make me think anything less of him or make me even question the fact that he may indeed be abusive mentally, physically or emotionally.

Everything I did seemed to anger him all of a sudden and I found myself changing who I was to make him happy. Tony would embrass me infront of my friends but I would shove it off when my friends would confront me about his actions. He began to control how I talked, who my friends were and slowly my world was wrapped up in him alone. He alienated me from my friends (the very good friends that told me he was no good for me) and I could not go to my family because I did not want to hear, “I TOLD YOU SO!”

Around the fourth month into the relationship, we began to argue everyday about his ex-girlfriend and other foolishness. I found out that Tony and his ex-girlfriend were still calling each other and texting each other all while we were together and ofcourse he lied about the entire thing.

We ended up getting into a huge screaming match on the phone one day and it ended with him saying that we were done. I jumped in my car and headed to his house hoping that we could talk about this and work things out. When I pulled up, Tony was waiting for me outside and before I could get out of the car good, he pulled me out. Tony jumped in my face, yelling and screaming calling me every name in the book.

Before I knew it, Tony had lifted me on the hood of my car and we were fighting like two guys in the street. He then choked me to where I could not breathe knowing that I have asthma and at that moment, our relationship seemed to flash before my eyes.

I was began to see things at a different angle and it was the angle that my friends and family were trying to tell me all this time. I noticed how he changed me and how my friends were negelected by me because he felt they did not fit into his dream relationship. Some how, I mustered up the strength to get him off of me and I ran to get into my car. He started to follow me in this slow “serial killer” walk yelling about how he loved me and that he was sorry. After finally leaving that situation, I realized that I love myself too much to be drugged through the mud like that and I never looked back.

Nobody should ever have to go through anything like like but it happens. I wanted to share my story to let people know that abuse is not okay and that it does not translate to love. I refuse to be a statistic.

For more information regarding abusive relationships, please contact: T.E.A.R. - Teens Experiencing Abusive Relationships, www.teenagainstabuse.org.

By: Chanteau Garrett, Fashion Editor

1.     Trapeze Dresses

2.     Fashionable Scarves with Intricate Designs

3.     A pair of thick soles high-heels

4.     Faux animal printed purse

5.     Long cropped trousers

6.     Print coat or Coatdress

7.     Long, layered necklaces

8.     Stacked Bracelets

9.     Bohemian Shirt

10.  Military Jacket

By: Chanteau Garrett, Fashion Editor

We would like to congratulate Snooty Girl Boutique for being the Boutique of the Month. This boutique caries the latest fashion forward styles and the hottest accessories to match. You can find Snooty Girl Boutique in the Pearland Town Center in Pearland, TX.

Snooty Girl Boutique caries brands such as:

-Meghan Fabulous
-Da-Nang
-Salvage
-Karmasoul International
-Rawalty
-Va Va

Do you think that your boutique has what it takes to be the Boutique of the Month? Well here is your chance to be the talk of the town! Send us a brief descripition of your boutique and why you should be the Boutique of the Month, along with two pictures of the merchandise in your store. Please send all entries to Editorial@TeenChicMag.com (Attn: Fashion Editor).

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF TEEN CHIC MAGAZINE!!!

After a long awaited debut, Teen Chic Magazine has finally launched and it was a huge success! Please check out our blog at www.TeenChicMag.ning.com to see the THANK YOU list because we really do appreciate all of your help and support.This issue is our first of many more to come and the entire staff is excited about releasing the chicness to teens across the world wide web! Please don’t be fooled as we are not your average on-line magazine.

Here is a little better insight into the break down of the magazine sections.

-Me - How can I stop my hair from drying out? What is the correct way to create a smoky eye? Should I go on a diet or start working out? You can find all of the answers to those questions and more in this section.

-Boys - Is it just me, but are boys sometimes hard to understand? Every month we will be asking 6 guys a burning question that us girls really want to know the answer to.

-Fashion - Fashion…Lights…This section speaks for itself and it will not disappoint you.

-OMGosh - This section is dedicated to true life stories of the Teen Chic Magazine readers. Have you ever been homeless? Ever find yourself in a hardship that you did not think that you would get out of? Well, this is the section for you…We want to hear your story.

-So Chic - This section is where you will find my Letter from the Editor and any other important correspondence and updates, because I am SO CHIC!

-Decisions - Colleges, Universities, Scholarships, Trade Schools,Internships, ACT and SAT testing will all be found in this section along with important decisions about politics.

-Entertainment - Music, Fun, Movies and New Artist Spot Light can all be found in this section.

-Oops, My Bad - You can find the funniest and embarrassing stories here in this section and we want to hear from you.

My vision for Teen Chic Magazine started when I was 12 years old, hanging out with my cousin Kristal as I often did growing up. It was a lazy Summer day and we were laying on the floor flipping through magazines, taking the quizzes, mocking the models poses and trying to think of a solid plan on how we were going to get the latest fashions that we knew our parents could not really afford or just would not normally buy.

Something in me, felt like something was missing in all of the magazines that we were flipping through. Education has always been very important in my family and while seeing the latest fashions was always a treat, I wanted a magazine that could convey the importance of education, fashion, politics, health, beauty and entertainment into one.There was something else that was greatly missing as well…minority faces. I was a teen reading magazines geared for teens that did not have any people that looked like me in the entire magazine and not just me but any minorities at all.

From that point on, I made it my dream to create a magazine that was sorely geared towards minority teens and Teen Chic Magazine was born. As a big sister and older cousin, I feel that it is imperative for teens to have positive role models to be able to look up to and along with having a gateway of unlimited information that is strictly geared towards helping them achieve their dreams. Thanks to Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, it doesn’t seem so far fetched when we hear little girls and little boys say that they would like to be the President of the United States when the grow up because the possibilities are endless.

Thank you for taking the time to read our magazine and we would love to hear from you. Please send questions and inquires to info@teenchicmag.com and a Teen Chic Magazine Staff Member will contact you. Please stay tuned for our January issue as the the fashion shoot is smoking hot!

Happy Holidays to everyone and remember to LIVE in GLAM and DREAM in CHIC!

♥,

C’na Roberts
Editor-in-Chief

~ Photos by Mike Charlton Photography~ Launch Party