SEAM Club Invites Students and Others to Perform at Motlow Talent Show

    SMYRNA, Tenn. – The Smyrna Entertainment, Arts and Media Club (SEAM) is looking for artists of all kinds to perform at its Motlow Talent Show on April 15.

   Performance opportunities are open to everyone, including students, faculty, administrators and staff. To sign up, send your name and talent description to Professor Charles Whiting at cwhiting@mscc.edu . The deadline for consideration is April 1.

   The types of talent that the club would like to feature include singing, songwriting, dance, poetry reading, storytelling, public speaking, acting, comedy, and visual art. The event is part of Motlow’s effort to bring High Impact Practices into higher education, giving students hands-on experience in the creation of a major show.

Motlow Artists Can Share Their Talents at Open Mic Night on April 11

            LYNCHBURG -- Open mic night is here! Motlow artists can show off their talents with poetry, prose or music from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on April 11 (Thursday) on the Moore County Campus.

            The Open Mic Night will occur in the Jack Daniels Meeting Room at the Forrester Student Center. Each participant will have four minutes to showcase his or her work. Individuals may sign up at the door on a first-come, first-read basis. Refreshments will be served. 

            This event is sponsored by the "Write Here! Write Now!" community writing workshop and the Department of Languages. For more information, contact Dr. William Murphy at wmurphy@mscc.edu or Tamara I. Jones at tjones1@mscc.edu.

Both the Beauty and the Ugly in the Beauty Industry

By Liliana Gonzalez
Motlow Buzz Contributing Writer   

         

            SMYRNA -- I was about 15 years old when I first started wearing makeup. At 16 years old, I remember trying to glue on a pair of eyelashes for the first time, and it was a nightmare! It took a whole 45 minutes to glue them on correctly. Halfway through the process, I glued one of my eyes together.

Now I think back and laugh at that memory. I can get both eyelashes perfectly on in a total of five minutes. At the age of 20 today, I have worked in the beauty industry for two years. I was a prestige makeup artist for Ulta Beauty for two years.

I have learned many things while working in the beauty industry, including networking, upselling, and most importantly making the customer feel beautiful. There are a lot of perks that come with working in this field. However, there are also many negatives.

In this article, I will share what it is like to work at a retail beauty store, some beauty tips and tricks, how to not break the bank when buying makeup, and the experiences I have gone through.

            When you are working for a retail beauty store, the goal is obviously to upsell the most you can. When a customer asked us for help, we were trained to listen to the customer and always start with the most expensive high-end product to recommend to the customer.

 I believe this way is flawed because I knew that there were products that worked just fine that were lower priced. For example, a customer would ask for a glitter primer. My job was to recommend the “Too Faced Glitter Glue Glitter Shadow Primer,” which retailed for $20. This was even though I knew that the “NYX Professional Makeup Glitter Primer” retailed for $6.49 and worked exactly the same as the higher-end one.

I could not tell the customer my personal knowledge and experience while comparing the higher-end products to the lower-end products. I did not like that, so I always broke the rules. In my opinion, that is the right thing to do. Women of all ages would come to me and ask me in confidence what best suited them. Morally, I felt like I had to be honest with them. I knew my morals were not lining up with the company’s ethics. Although this was one negative, I believe the positives outweighed that.

            My favorite part of working in the beauty industry was practicing the craft that I adore, all day, every day. My job was to make women and men feel beautiful and help them when they came to me for advice or for a makeover. It felt amazing when I knew I was teaching someone something new and their eyes would light up with excitement as they gained knowledge. I always gave it my all when it came to giving people makeovers. My clients would always return to me, and that felt amazing!

People are always curious to know if we ever got free makeup. The answer is yes, all the time. Apart from having your major discount of 25 percent off various products (which is a lot when it comes to buying expensive makeup), sometimes the brands will double this amount to 50 percent. For example, our normal discount was offered all the time, but some weeks a brand would double it. Brands do this because they are fighting for the employees to try their brands, so that we can sell their products to customers and increase sales. I also networked a lot with the different makeup companies’ vendors. The vendors are the people who represent a brand at the store.

Every week, there were vendors who came in for every brand. Your goal was to be their friend and act like their brand was the best one in the store. It was all about getting close to the vendor. That way, they could give you free products in return. I know it sounds bad, but that was the way it worked. You had to be likeable and sell yourself to these brands.

For example, the "TooFaced" brand vendor would come into the store, and I would have to fight with the other girls for attention. Not literally, but we would all try and get alone time with the vendor and try to talk to them as much as we could. I have to admit I did get free makeup this way. I got the “Too Faced Sweet Peach Eyeshadow Palette” for free, which retails for $49. Another perk was the training for new product launches.

In the beauty industry, new products are being launched all the time, and customers are always looking for the newest, hottest products out there. We would have parties in the store for employees only when a product would launch. We would get to try new products that had not hit the shelf yet and take it home for free to try it out. That is where our knowledge for products would come from. With so many products in the store, we could not give customers advice if we had never personally tried the product.

One of the major things I have learned from working in the beauty industry that I am sharing with you today is to not always trust the sales reps at beauty stores. They are always going to try to upsell to meet their personal goal. They are most likely lying half of the time when talking about a beauty product with you.

I made the mistake of trusting a different beauty store representative when I was 15 years old. I walked in not knowing what I was doing, and I asked an employee for help. She convinced me into buying expensive items that were awful. When I got home, I cried. I learned my lesson and turned to watching makeup tutorials online instead for advice.

The online beauty world is so massive today that you can get all of the latest info every week from hundreds of girls on YouTube. They are sent makeup for free encourage them to give their honest opinions on it. They share to the audience what is actually worth your money, and they will even teach you techniques on how to apply the makeup. That is truly the best way to go into the makeup world.

There are many online beauty bloggers with the latest tips and tricks. A very popular one can be found at https://intothegloss.com/

Overall, working in the beauty industry is fun and exciting. I encourage every beauty fanatic to try it.

The most important thing I can leave you with is a quote by Coco Chanel: “A smile is the best makeup anyone can wear.”

Makeup empowers people of all ages and genders, and it is a beautiful artistry in which you can express yourself any way. 

Painting With A Twist Creates Art in Murfreesboro

By Dillon Henderson

Motlow Buzz Contributing Writer

            MURFREESBORO, Tenn.—The Painting with a Twist art studio in Murfreesboro offers a creative place for emerging painters in the community to learn the art of painting from professional artists.

According to Assistant Manager Nicole Martin, painters provide the tools and advice necessary for individuals to create a painting. She was interviewed on Nov. 17 during an event in the studio at 2615 Medical Center Parkway.

Martin said that Painting with a Twist offers a wide range of painting classes for customers who want to create their own artwork. Aspiring artists cans sign up at https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/murfreesboro/.

“The store provides a step-by-step process to help every individual create his or her dream painting,” martin added. “It typically takes two hours for a painting to be created.”

She and her staff work with customers till 12 a.m. on busy weekends and till 10 p.m. on weekdays. PWAT offers a unique and guided experience for its guests.

"Glass Flower Vase" by Dillon Henderson

Upcoming classes and/or workshops at PWAT’s Murfreesboro studio include

* A “For Unto Us” painting class for artists age 15 and over from 6-8 p.m. on Dec. 13.

* A “Tri-Star Ornament” painting class for artists age 15 and over from 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 14.

* A “Holiday Tree of Life” painting class for artists age 7 and over from 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Dec. 15.

* A “Rustic Santa” class for artists age 15 and over from 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 19.

Martin noted that PWAT opened its first studio in Mandeville, Louisiana, after Hurricane Katrina hit that state as a way to provide relief and relaxation. Funds raised by PWAT have been used in the community. The founders, Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney, did not realize they were about to start a national franchise from a self-made local establishment.

Painting with a Twist opened in Rutherford County seven years ago because Murfreesboro franchisee Teresa Johnson loves art and wanted to help artists that she loves and supports. Customers, both young and old, are able to visit PWAT to create something for the Murfreesboro community. PWAT provides a welcoming environment for self-expression and getting to know others.

Martin said that art lovers “can participate in corporate training to learn how to run a successful franchise.” This additional training takes place in New Orleans at Painting with a Twist’s home office. She noted that one key to a successful location is effectively marketing painting classes on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook.

Martin said future developments for the arts studio will be slow since it is self-made and a non-profit organization, but it will continue to offer more artwork choices. The owners plan to develop more stores around the United States to bring in more revenue and spread their unique concept.

PWAT is locally owned, and customers receive small business perks like knowing staff members who care about artists’ work in the community. The studio holds high standards for customer service and prides itself on showcasing art by local artists for Middle Tennesseans to enjoy.

“The store will be doing holiday paintings all throughout December, and in January we will be going back to moderate paintings our artists have made,” Martin said.

For more information about painting with a Twist in Murfreesboro, visit https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/murfreesboro/faq/. 

A Nothing into Something

By Myia Jones
Motlow Buzz Reporter

            When I was a child, I was always into being famous. I couldn’t get enough of the media. Just seeing the cameras and the bright lights, along with the stars on television, has always amazed me. I loved the extravagant colors of wardrobes, and seeing people change their emotions, whether it was real life or a cartoon.

            My parents always kept me involved in sports like dance, tap dance, track, basketball, etc., but I knew that wasn’t for me -- at least the “real” athletic sports. As a child, I would beg my mom to put me on TV, or let me model, but her response would be, “This is just a scam!” I couldn’t seem to shake the feeling there is more out there in the world because I saw it on TV. Every birthday, I used to pray and wish that I would become “a somebody” by the time I was at the age of 16 to the age of 18.

            Growing up, I was bullied and doubted I could be anything. I never told my parents, so it took a hold on my heart. I was soon introduced to the performing arts, where I learned I could be myself. Once I got on stage, it was like I was a certified natural. I became addicted to the sound of “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!”

            When social media came into play, it was like love at first sight. Social Media is what really helped me decide specifically what I wanted to do in life. I loved taking pictures and creating posts for others to relate to, as well as getting out certain feelings, or emotions, when I didn’t have anyone to talk to. It’s something about following your favorite celebrity, or keeping up with the latest fashion trends that had me.

            Fashion was never my thing. I couldn’t seem to realize what looked good on me, or what my actual style was. What really played the part in this was I had a low self-esteem from all the bullying, and at the time I didn’t know my worth. I would always wear jackets and blazers to hide my skin, and ponytails to hide my length, but there has always been a flame in me, that swore I would get it all together.

            Fast forwarding to the end of my 12th grade year, and I became more of a fashionista—without the funds. When I got to college, I exploded with the ability to not be afraid of me, and I had the funds this time. I began trying things I never thought I would, and wearing clothes I never thought I could.

            In the year of 2016, things became clear. I had just gotten a new job in downtown Nashville, and I felt as if it was exactly what I needed. I met a lot of designers, store owners; you name it. I’ve also met a lot of famous people like athletes, dancers, singers, etc. Coming from the small town of Murfreesboro, you rarely meet young people who own businesses, or a lot of black business owners. One of the most “awing” moments for me was to see people my age that are very successful. In a short time of experiencing all of this, I decided I wanted to create a blog about celebrities, gossip, and the latest fashion trends.    

            My blog, Jae’s Box, is just that. This article is intended for women and men ages 16 and up. This blog requires the viewers to subscribe where they will now be known as a “jewel,” hints the name “Jae’s Box,” as in a jewelry box. Most of my articles will be posted no later than the day the specific event will occur. We will have a comment section for each article where viewers can state their opinions, and we will have direct messenger for comments, findings or concerns. We plan on having multiple social medias in order for our subscribers to be able to take us with them anywhere.

            Now that I’ve introduced how I came about writing my blog and what my blog will be about, here are a few articles that will be featured:

           

Nike Will Be Introducing Hijabs for Their Muslim Athletes in Spring 2018

The Hijab, according to CNN Money, took 13 months to make and came into creation after Muslims athletes would complain about having to wear their traditional scarves while competing.

Nike also states the “Nike Pro Hijab” may have been in the making for more than a year. http://money.cnn.com/2017/03/07/news/nike-pro-hijab/

Katy Perry Says She Tried to “Pray The Gay Away”

Singer Katy Perry received an award from the Human Rights Campaign  in LA and openly opened up about her sexuality, deciding to thank the LGBT community.

In her speech, she spoke about growing up in a very strict and religious family. Katy mentions, she was very curious about her sexuality, but knew that it wasn’t something that would be accepted.

Katy claims she tried to “pray the gay away” at Christian camps, but she ended up finding her gift. http://www.katyperry.com/

Tomi Lahren Suspended for A Week

Tomi’s program, “Tomi,” will be off air for at least a week, according to The Hill, after what was reported as rising tensions between her and other Blaze employees.

Lahren reportedly upset her boss, Glen Beck, after her appearance on “The View”. Tomi claimed to be “pro-life” and even took shots at conservatives, calling them hypocrites according to the Daily Beast.

Glenn took it to his radio show on Monday to blast his employee.

On Monday Lahren took it to Twitter to try and do a little damage control, which prompted her boss responded back.    https://twitter.com/TomiLahren?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Tennessee Teen and Teacher Go Missing Together

Corpus Christi police said they have been unable to wrap their head around the fact that, a Tennessee school teacher and a student he’s accused of kidnapping were in the South Texas Gulf Coast city.

Tennessee authorities have been hunting for the 50-year-old Tad Cummins and the 15-year-old Elizabeth Thomas for two weeks.

Cummins has been added to Tennessee Most Wanted List after being suspected of kidnapping the teen. http://people.com/crime/elizabeth-thomas-missing-tad-cummins-romantic-emails-school/

DirtyKicks and Customizing Sneakers

By Drema Copeland

         

           Your shoes are your canvas. It is up to you to decide what style of shoe best fits the image you want to produce. White sneakers are the simplest to customize. Choose a sneaker made of either leather or vinyl. A canvas shoe may also be used but could prove to be a much trickier surface for a beginner. If you are familiar with the many different types of paints and how they are applied to different surfaces, steer clear of canvas for now. Before you do anything, it is best you devise a rough sketch of your plan.

Paint: Some paint markers release very fragile paint and some are tremendously watery. These types don’t work well for sneaker art. Make sure the markers you choose have the thickest consistency for the finest results. Paint markers are available in various tip sizes: Big to small. Based on your sketch, choose the proper tip sizes for your image. You want to be able to control lines, fill in spaces and define curves. The thinner the tip, the easier it will be to draw details. The thicker the tip, the more paint you can spread to large areas. Spray paint can also be used. If you use spray paint as a base, make sure you get skinny caps to keep the aerosol from covering detail you want to show.

You need to have all the correct materials to do a proper custom job. When painting on leather, the only paint recommend is Angelus paint. You also need acetone, rubber gloves, cotton balls, a glass that's not made of plastic, medium and liner paintbrushes and an airbrush, masking tape, an x-acto knife, a matte finisher and a hair dryer.

Take the cotton balls and soak them into the acetone. Rub the cotton balls until the coat is off the leather. Coating may leave a muddled residue when it comes off. You'll go through a lot of cotton balls if you're doing this properly. The leather will turn grey now that the layer is off. Running your finger over the surface and if it's still really smooth you haven't taken the layer off completely. This process may take between 30 and 40 minutes. Then cover all the areas that you may not want painted. Use an X-Acto knife and cut along the edges.

When applying paint, paint in lightly to avoid thin layers, streaks, and cracks that look like there painted. All colors aren't opaque like others. You may need more coats to achieve a leveled finish like red or yellow. Make sure the layer dries before applying the next coat. You can use a hair dryer to speed up the process.

A small liner brush can be used when cleaning the edges and small details along the shoe. Take your time. Once the shoe is completely dry, take off the gloss paint leaves off so it looks more factory. There are tons of finishers out there, Angelus also makes finishers.

 You've now effectively made a custom shoe. You can begin to lace them.

For more helpful information please visit:
http://sneakers.about.com/od/howtocustomizesneakers/ss/Customizesneaks.htm#step3

The 'Full Moon Tattoo and Horror Fest' Puts Some Fright in the Night

By Sheldon Male

Motlow Buzz Reporter

                NASHVILLE, Tenn. —The "Full Moon Tattoo and Horror Festival" occurred from April 18-20 in downtown Nashville, bringing out stars of the genre, showcasing the best tattoo artists from around the country, and selling horror items.

                This year’s convention marked the 13^th year since Ben and Stacey Dixon created the event, and it was an astounding success.

               “Another 'Full Moon' has ended," Ben Dixon reported on his Facebook page. "Stacey and I want to thank each and everyone personally for coming out to the show and showing the support. It is always so wonderful to see our extended convention family. The old friends and so many new ones that we met this year. We appreciate all of the vendors, artists, tattoo artists and celebrities, but most of all the fans that make this show possible.”

The monsters and madmen descended on the Nashville Convention Center, 601 Commerce St. Just walking to the convention, one could tell who the fans were. Many fans of the genre were dressed up as the creatures of the night, or their favorite horror movie monster. It was a group all to itself. Even some of Motlow’s own students, like Spencer Sciers, have gone to previous conventions and had a blast. 

Derek Mears From "Friday the 13th"

          After one arrives at the convention, he or she is allowed to wander. One can walk the main showroom floor and meet the monsters. Some Motlow students arrived a little too late to meet all the celebrities, but they did get to meet Derek Mears, who is known for his work as Jason Voorhees in "Friday the 13^th” , "Predators", "Hansel and Gretel", "Grimm" and "Sleepy Hollow".  Some also got to meet Ken Foree, who is known for his work in "Dawn of the Dead" and "The Devils Rejects". The full line-up of celebrities included Corey Feldman, Jamie Kennedy, Scott Wilson, the "Pet Zombies" from "The Walking Dead", Santiago Cirilo, Michael Koske, Tony Moran, PJ Soles, William Forsythe, Daniel Bisutti, Steve Railsback, James Duvall, Ladislav Beran, John Dugan, Terry Kiser, Mark Slaughter, Chris Fleming, Eric Powell, Eugene Clark, Kip Weeks, Sal Lizard and Gene Hadley.

After meeting the celebrities, one can walk around and shop among the many vendors. Most vendors were just selling t-shirts and posters. However, some of them were selling other items such as horror masks and eye-changing contact lenses. Some attendees bought t-shirts. A favorite vendor was Joel Robinson, who drew a big crowd. He designed all the artwork for this year’s event and also made his fifth appearance this year.  Fans can see some of Joel Robinson’s work at www.artpusher.net.



Joel Robinson with his artwork

          There were also various contests that occurred throughout the day. A costume contest gave fans the opportunity to portray their favorite monsters with wonderful and colorful outfits. The festival also featured a competition for all of the tattoos that were created that day. A large number of tattoo vendors from across the country competed, with some of them even displaying the trophies they had won in previous years.  There was also a tattoo seminar with legendary tattoo artist Bob Tyrell.

The convention pulled all kinds of people from all walks of life. From the artists and vendors to scary monsters, the convention didn't leave anyone disappointed. The Dixons have already started making plans for next year’s convention, getting celebrities lined up. So, fans should start getting their monster outfits ready.

###