Chicago International Salsa Congress 2018 – Recap

This year marked the 17^th annual Chicago International Salsa Congress and this exciting 4-day event was filled with musicians, performances and dance workshops. The feeling once you step into the salsa congress is like no other. There’s a joy that comes over you and it doesn’t matter if you’re not a dancer because the overall experience is breathtaking. Many come for its sole purpose and that is to enjoy themselves, experience and witness what the event is all about.

As always it never ceases to amaze me on how performers from different states, cities and around the world come together under one roof to showcase their best performances. Passion, creativity, love for music and dance is shared with the crowed. This year in particular there was more of a focus on the youth program and dance. I was stunned to see such young kids go on stage and dance their hearts off. After learning what Rosita Ragin-Alamin, co-founder and producer shared with me, she noted that it is important because these kids go on stage in front of many people and learn to become confident. I could not agree more because if there is something where kids can learn how to feel that poise within them they can conquer anything.

During the day, DJ’s and guest DJ’s play music continuously throughout 3 ballrooms and the main hallway area to keep the energy going. The evening weekend line up featured, JR and his bachata band from New York, Orquesta Guayacan direct from Colombia, La Sonora Ponceña of Puerto Rico and Sunday night closed with the best of the best from the Midwest with an incredible jam session under the direction of Chicago’s own Edwin Sanchez and Angel Rodriguez.

Each year I always look forward to the different workshops held during the day such as, SalsaArobics, Bachata Footwork, Ladies Styling, Mambo Shines, Cuban Salsa, Cha Cha, Brazilan Samba, Afro Mambo, Kizomba, Vogue and the list goes on! The classes are an hour long and usually there is one or two instructors leading the class in each ballroom for different classes. At the end of each workshop session the instructor allows the class to record him/her as they demonstrate the routine one last time. Instructors also offer a one-on-one private dance session.

If you’re interested, then you definitely do not want to miss out on next year’s Chicago International Salsa Congress! February 7 -10, 2019. For more info, click on the link below and visit them!

www.chicagosalsacongress.com

Rosita 3 — Rosita Ragin-Alamin & Saladeen Alamin (Co-Founders and Producers)

February 18, 2018 0

Chicago Millennium Park Art

“The earth is Art, the photographer is only a witness.” 📸captured by me 📸

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#lunchbreakviews #millenniumpark #Chicagoblogger #Chicago #igers #instadaily #instapic #iphonesia #igdaily #instamood #instalike #tagblender #Hot_Shotz #Artsy #Wintertime #Chicagophotos #Lulusinsights

February 1, 2018 0

"I Am Not My Hair Series" "Afro-Latina" by, Artbysimplyjess — “I Am Not My Hair Series” “Afro-Latina” by: www.SimplyJessArt.com

Singer/artist Amara La Negra has been making a statement since the first season of Love & Hip Hop Miami aired on January 1, 2018. The viewers are able to know more about her and how she is empowering women like her to not give up, never change who you are and most importantly your appearance. She is shining a light on how difficult it is for women who are dark skinned to make it in the entertainment/music industry without being told that they need to change their appearance.

Born Dana Danelys De Los Santos in Miami, Florida, the 27-year-old was raised by a single mother who moved from the Dominican Republic to the United States in hopes to give her daughter a better future. Amara has shared some of her deepest moments on the show on how her mother worked five jobs to make ends meet. She also shared that as a young girl she attended dance classes, took acting classes, modeling and in 1991 she won her first award in a beauty pageant.

Amara is a Latin musician who has made music in the Latin industry and has worked with well-known artists along the way. However, from what we’ve learned from her debut on Love & Hip Hop, Amara is looking into breaking in the American music industry but not without facing hardships from being told that she needs to change her appearance. In a recent interview on the radio station the Breakfast Club, Amara discusses these particular issues.

“We come in so many different shades that it’s like, why is it so hard for people to understand that or accept me? I feel like there’s this standard of beauty that you have to look a certain type of way in order to be pretty, your hair needs to be straight and silky or if you’re Latina you have to look like J. LO…” She also noted, “there isn’t a Latin country that doesn’t look like me.”

On the show Amara seeks guidance from a well-known producer named Young Hollywood. She wanted some insight on how she can make a crossover from the Latin music industry to the American music industry. However, things took a turn when he asked her why her hair is the way it is. He then proceeded to tell her to be less Macy Gray and be more Beyoncé and called her a Nutella Queen.

As you can imagine the internet has been all over this issue and the majority are taking a stand with Amara. Although, she discussed how she was angry, instead she explains how important it is to educate people like Young Hollywood.

Since the show Amara has been on several interviews and continues to bring awareness to the public. She also landed a multi-album record deal with BMG and is the CEO and founder of ALN Clothing line. This goes to show that even after being criticized Amara does not let it stop her and get in the way of her dreams. She explains how she embraces her appearance, sets her self apart and is her own person. The Afro-Latina is empowering women and young ladies to love the skin they’re in and their hair. She notes everyone is different and that’s what makes them unique.

unnamed-2 — Photo by: www.clearlyfocusedmediaworks.com

Although, this topic is about breaking in the American music industry this is something that many Latinos and African-American’s encounter. The stereotype continues because people are not properly educated or are single-minded.

To learn more about Amara La Negra you can watch the show Love and Hip Hop Miami every Monday 9/8C on VH1 and or follow her on social media.

Instagram @amaralanegraaln

Twitter @AmaraLaNegraALN

www.ALNclothingline.com

unnamed-1 — Photo cred: www.simplyjessart.com

January 31, 2018 0

Latino Fashion Week 2017

This year’s Latino Fashion Week motto was “Without Limits” and it truly lived to its name. From the opening night till the last day I was amazed by the different styles from each designer. Once again, co-founders and producers of the show Arabel Alva Rosales and Cesar Rolon Jr. brought out some of the best designers and even those who are starting up and giving them a chance to showcase their work.

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October 6, 2017 0

Help Puerto Rico by signing to wave the Jones Act & donate

Click here to sign & waive the Jones Act Let’s make this happen y’all! The Jones Act is 100 years old and is screwing the people on the island who are Citizens!

“What is the Jones Act…”On March 2, 1917, Wilson signed the Jones-Shafroth Act, under which Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory and Puerto Ricans were granted statutory citizenship, meaning that citizenship was granted by an act of Congress and not by the Constitution (thus it was NOT guaranteed by the constitution”

You can also donate at The Puerto Rico House in Chicago, 1237 N. California. Today until 9p.m. Due to over capacity the police station on 2150 N. California will also accept donations

Things they need

Water
Canned foods
Diapers
Powder formula
Flashlight
Batteries
Clothes….Etc…

Before & after pictures below

September 27, 2017 0

How to pull off a Professional & Casual look

Ever wanted to dress casual for work but still needed to look professional? Well, here is a simple style on how to pull off the duo. First, when it comes to jeans I tend to lean more towards a darker color rather than lighter jeans. Secondly, always have a blazer because this will initially complete the duo look. As shown in the pictures below I went for a flowy orange shirt but even a fitted white tee or any other color will look just as good. As for shoes I decided to wear wedges however, a pair of nice closed sandals or even flats will also do the trick.

Blazer is from Express and the shirt, jeans and shoes are from Forever 21

June 16, 2017 0

Puerto Rico 2017 Recap

Puerto Rico came and left before I knew it, but my experience there was impeccable. Words truly can’t explain the way I felt being on the motherland. From the moment I landed there was a comfort inside of me like this was truly paradise. Being there two days before my sisters big day/wedding we had the opportunity to relax and settle in. The day before the wedding was the walk through at the venue (Casa De Espana) and seeing it for the first time took my breath away. That same evening after the walk through we went to eat at an amazing restaurant named Raices in Old San Juan. Raices means roots in English and it was fitting because the waiters and waitresses had on traditional Puerto Rican outfits. The food and the drinks were delicious and the overall ambiance was joyful.

The day of the wedding I felt the jitters but excited all at the same time. Watching my sister walk down the isle as my father stood by her side holding her arm was beautiful and emotional. Instant tears of joy streamed down my sisters face and of course the rest of us. From beginning to end the evening was like a fairytale that I got to experience. It was also a blessing that 93 friends and family were able to witness such a spectacular wedding.

Casa De Espana is definitely a historic site and place to visit when traveling to Puerto Rico.

The days after the wedding were spent visiting family, Hiking EL Yunque/Rain forest up in the mountains, lounging at Luquillo beach and visiting El Morro/The Fort. Although, I was unable to do every activity I still enjoyed my time and the things I got to do. There’s the worlds highest zip lining in Puerto Rico, the Bioluminescent Bay adventure, Culebras and Viques which are 2 small island municipalities of Puerto Rico and are just 17 and 14 miles away from the mainland with private/white sand beaches, etc….

The people everywhere we went were kind, respectful, polite and made you feel welcomed.

Puerto Rico definitely stole my heart.

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PHOTO CREDS:

Steven Souriyadeth and check out his Website at ourstoriesyourlegacy.com (Founder & Executive Publisher) IG: @souris55

Vanessa Elizondo, Angel Elizondo, Lolina Lautoa

Things to do in P.R. https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/search?location=Puerto-Rico-Island&regionId=180021&kword=what_to_do_in_puerto_rico_island!b.ZzZz.4990000246190.0.80539227990259.things%20to%20do%20in%20puerto%20rico.what_to_do_in_puerto_rico_island&semcid=US.MULTILOB.BING.SEARCH.TSHOP&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=USA%3AENG%3A%5D%3ADL%3AAMER%3AX%3AB%3AX%3A%3A&utm_term=what%20to%20do%20in%20puerto%20rico%20island&utm_content=USA%3AENG%3A%5D%3ADT%3AAMER%3APRI%3AXX%3ACaribbean%3A6022969%3APuerto_Rico_Island%3A180021%3AB%3AX%3Awhat_to_do%3A

June 6, 2017 0

“How To Be A Latin Lover”- Media Event

“They didn’t call me to do this movie. I was the one who generated the script and opened the company. I hired the writers, directors, and brought everyone to make it happen,” said Actor Eugenio Derbez.

On Monday April 17, LatinoScoop hosted the “How To Be A Latino Lover,” media event at the National Museum of Mexican Art in the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago.

Actor Eugenio Derbez was the star of the evening and gave an inspirational speech about his anticipated film. He explained how his journey was not an easy process but did not give up. His words of wisdom moved the crowd and informed noted to be proud of who you are and the title of the movie is a prime example of that.

“Even though it’s an American Movie filmed by Lionsgate, the 2 stars fo the movie are Latino,” he said.

The event displayed easels with photos from scenes of the movie throughout the gallery. Because the event was media driven those who attended were welcomed to take pictures and post to social media.

Complimentary appetizers and drinks from HennessyVS were also given to guests. Before Eugenio Derbez went on stage a teen mariachi band performed for the guests. LatinoScoop did an amazing job in putting the event together.

The cast of the movie includes, Eugenio Derbez, Salma Hayek, Kristen Bell, Rob Lowe, Raquel Welch, Rob Riggle, Michael Cera and Rob Corddry.

“How To Be A Latin Lover” hits theaters Friday April, 28.

LatinoScoop.com

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April 19, 2017 0

YK Model & Talent Agency Takes Over – Black Women’s Expo 2017

YK Management Model & Talent Agency took over the main stage at this year’s 2017 Black Women’s Expo held at Chicago’s McCormick Convention Center, April 7-9. Models from the Fashion Agency walked the runway on Friday and Sunday afternoon rocking some of the hottest brands. Founder and creator Yoshimi Kiosha, does it all on her own and preps her models for each fashion show. The 27 year old entrepreneur knew Fashion Management was her dream at the young age of 12.

“At 12 years old I decided to branch off and start my own fashion management. I remember recruiting people when I was young because I always had a passion for it. My Freshmen/Sophomore year of high school I had my own clothing line at school named Geishagirl. I would pick out fabric and my step-dad had a printing shop and helped me out. Through it all my grandmother was my biggest supporter and in 2009, YK Management was established. I eventually want to rent a building and make it a school and agency,” said Yoshimi.

Now Yoshimi takes on events such as, The Black Women’s Expo and her models walk the runway.

YK MODELS:

After the show, I interviewed a few of the models, make-up artists and hair-stylists on their experience at the fashion show.

One of the newest models to YK Management, 24-year-old Christian Pittman, explained how she was in a previous fashion show and Yoshimi was there recruiting and scouting models. From there, Yoshimi liked what she saw and Christian joined the team. Although, she has been modeling with YK for a little under 2 months, she explained how practicing with the other models has been unbelievable.

“It’s like an adrenaline rush on the runway but fun. We only had about a month to practice before the expo and Yoshmi managed to get all the models ready and organized. Her vision and method helped put everything into perspective,” said Christian.

24-year-old model and veteran Dominique Penn, has been with YK Management for a few months. Since she was a little girl she knew she loved fashion and has been modeling for 8 years.

“I watch fashion shows and I love to express myself with wild and bold colors. Modeling gives me a confidence and I enjoy walking the runway,” said Dominique.

Besides being a model for YK, Dominique has been doing lingerie modeling for about a year for Jewcee Boutique. “I’m trying to do different things and have a variety of pictures,” she said.

Last but not least, 17-year-old model Keyera Jones said her experience at first was nerve-wrecking but after changing and coming back on the runway, those nerves went away and she enjoyed herself.

“It’s a wonderful experience to be with YK Management. Yoshimi scouted me at my very first fashion show I did and now, I’m here,” said Keyera.

Currently a Junior at Simeon High School, the young model wants to pursue Fashion and work in the industry as a stylist and make-up artist but noted her main focus would be modeling.

ABOUT THE GLAM TEAM:

Behind every model there’s a glam team with talented individuals who help put the final pieces together. Each model had their hair, make-up and were styled to promote each brand of clothing line on the runway.

Freelance Make-up artist, Toni Mead said her friend tagged her in a flyer where Yoshimi was looking for make-up artists for the fashion show. Although it was her first time at the Expo she noted it was a great experience.

“I’ve worked with a WNBA player for a spring collection photo-shoot and did a hair show but never the Black Women’s Expo,” said Toni. The make-up artist goes by antigorgeous on Instagram.

Make-up artist, Jessica Patterson has done professional make-up for proms, weddings and now added fashion shows to her list. She also looks forward to attending the Black Women’s Expo next year.

“The energy was fast-paced but exciting and I’m very honored to have done some of the models make-up,” said Jessica. She goes by, _Jesstimeless on Instagram.

Make-up artist, Jasmine Martinez explained how it was interesting being at the expo and noted it was also her first time.

“I have been doing make-up for a year now and it has been very lucrative,” she said. Jasmine goes by Jayevelyn on Instagram

Full-time Hairstylist, Tiffany Shelly said it was also her first time at the Expo and noted it was fast paced but awesome. She explained how she enjoyed doing the models hair and eventually seeks to have her own hair salon.

“I hope to have my own suite and also build a glam team,” said Tiffany. You can find her work on Instagram at Tiffanystylezglamoursly.

VENDORS:

The Black Women’s Expo was filled with many talented exhibitors and it was a cultural explosion of fashion, food, health, art and music. You definitely don’t want to miss next year’s event.

Fashion Designers

Menace.Denimz
Woke Fashions
Merci 88
Eden Brand
Eptome Boutique
Edward Ark Collection
Addison & Clark
Hoop Legend
Merci 88
Khamryn B
Her Treasures Boutique
Idrine Bishweka
Gidi
CBN

YK MANAGEMENT MODEL & TALENT AGENCY: www.ykmodelandtalent.com

April 12, 2017 0

Fashion Designer – Hola Chola Pop-up Shop

“It goes to show that if you really believe in something go for it,” said Susanna Gonzalez.

Fashion Designer and owner of Hola Chola Brand, Susanna Gonzalez has proven to be a fearless self-starter entrepreneur. This past weekend I attended the Hola Chola pop-up shop inside the National Museum of Mexican Art located in the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago. Susanna shared her story and how she became an independent artist.

Growing up in New York she felt sheltered at home because she was unable to explore. She felt drained at the everyday routine and rituals. Her family was accustomed and set in their ways but Susanna felt an urgency of wanting more.

“At 23 years old I made a bold decision to relocate to Los Angeles but, as time went by I felt like I was losing touch with my roots and religion back home. I forgot who I was because I was away from home so I decided to take a journey to Jalisco, Mexico,” she said.

During her time there she celebrated one of Mexico’s colorful and patriotic festivals in September known as their Independence Day, El Mes De La Patria (month of the homeland). She explained how her adventure in Mexico was a life changing experience because she felt the unity of the people and how it brought the Latino community together.

“They barely had anything but people were happy and I was drawn to the churches and religion,” she said.

Her time spent in Mexico inspired her from religion to the arts. One thing that stuck with Susanna was “La Reina.” She explained how ever since her journey she kept seeing La Reina appear and would pray.

“Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico, where she is known as La Reina de Mexico and is very much a cultural icon,” Mamiverse.com.

After her stay in Mexico Susanna decided to go back home to live in New York but while there she felt a sense of sadness.

“I felt uncomfortable knowing people in my hometown/background in Mexico were poor and had nothing,” she said.

She wanted to artistically bring to the life the culture and what she saw in Mexico but knew she would be held back from her full potential in New York because of her parents. She continued to pray to La Reina for guidance until one day she received a phone call for a job opportunity in Los Angeles and relocated once again. Although, she was working in L.A. she had an idea to work on her own brand and that’s when Hola Chola came to mind. Soon she found herself on her spare time working on her brand and was determined. As time went by she became passionate and diligent on the attire she made. Through the process of being away from home, working and starting her brand she was alone but never gave up.

“My family didn’t believe I could do it but here I am today and I just recently quit my job in November,” she said.

Her personality and smile gave an uplifting vibrant vibe. The ambiance in the room was electric and there was a variety of merchandise from hats, clothes to even suitcases. Inside the main gallery room there were nail technicians from Hush Nail Salon in Chicago, Hennessy V•S complimentary mixed drinks and a DJ on stage. The event had people from all backgrounds and each person’s style conveyed uniqueness from edgy, spunk, eccentric and overall creative. Being that it was her first time in Chicago she proved that no matter where she goes she can conquer any obstacle’s and draws an audience with her brand and style.

A special thanks to Cold Chillen Ent. for joining forces with Susanna Gonzalez to put the event together to Hush Nail Salon for coming out and doing some fabulous manicures to Hennessy V•S for the complimentary mixed drinks and to the DJ for playing some great music and engaging the crowd.