December 2011/January 2012

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packed with flavor, not calories

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OUR BEAUTY LINE * per 8fl oz serving

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ISSUE 19 • December 2011/January 2012 • WWW.BRINKMAGONLINE.COM

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Welcome to

BRINK

Welcome to the December 2011/January 2012 issue of BRINK! I always like to welcome you to the new issue – whether this is the first time you’ve picked up BRINK or the 20th time. Every issue is put together with you in mind. For the past two years, our team has been trying to find interesting places, organizations and items – both locally and globally – that you would enjoy. We want BRINK to be interesting and valuable; something that you might pass along or tell a friend about. This issue is no exception.

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20 Features

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charitable organizations and major retailers the whole hipster family can enjoy.

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38 Matt plunkett An extraordinary photographer who captures some of today’s biggest names on film.

12 cece teneal The singer has got the Presidents approval, now she just wants to “meet ya”.

14 john starr John Starr’s art work can only be upstaged by one thing, his sparkling personality.

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20 Lisa D’amato Lisa D’Amato is known to many as the wild personality on The CW’s Americas Next Top Model, but it’s her ability to build a brand that has people talking.

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27 2011 Gift guide Great gifts from local brands,

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Fashion and beauty

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18 Street Style Everyday people. On the street.

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33 Beauty stringer Beauty Editor Michelle Cameau does the work for you and finds the latest must haves for men and women.

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• Get the Look

Every Issue

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6 the buzz This issue YELP has found the coolest items you can’t live without.

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15 30 seconds or less Album reviews, movie reviews and book reviews in 30 seconds...or less.

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17 caroline knows Caroline knows what to do.

Got a question for Caroline?

Email her at caroline@ brinkmagonline.com

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42 The last page Twitter feed, polls and more.

Cover Photo by Sean Woods Make Up Artist: Maria Barreda Hair: Renee Ramos

The December 2011/January 2012 crosses the line between holidays and the new year. So what we’ve done is put together multiple gift guides that can be used well into February and beyond.

We’ve partnered with Yelp and added some stores that deserve a look (or a second look) and partnered with local shops and brands, so you can see what they have to offer all year long.

And it doesn’t stop there! The features in this fresh issue are outstanding. From entertainment personalist Lisa D’Amato to photographer Matt Plunkett to singer CeCe Teneal – these are people making things happen for themselves.

They are not waiting, and they are not looking for someone to turn their dream into a reality.

They’re doing it.

I thank each and every one of you reading this and for checking out BRINK over the past two years, liking BRINK on Facebook and beyond.

The publication is better than ever, and we have so much more on emerging talents and entrepreneurs in store for you. I also want to mention that BRINK came from a dream. The people in the magazine – celebrity or not – were on a wish list, and now they grace the pages. Anything you want to achieve in life, you can do it. It all starts with a dream.

Kyle M Menard Editor in Chief editor@brinkmagonline.com

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the buzz !

Picks

User Reviews and Recommendations of Top Restaurants, Shopping, Nightlife, Entertainment, Services and More at Yelp.

Artistree Co-op 1600 Edgewater Dr Orlando, FL 32804 artistreeco-op.com yelp.com/biz/artistree-co-op-orlando “Artistree Co-op is a true breath of fresh air. Attached to the delicious Infusion Tea, this cute shop is full of unique gifts for others (or yourself =) ). From jewelry, to wall decor, to even baby stuff, this place has what you’re looking for. I stopped in here to get some Christmas gifts for friends & family and was overwhelmed with the selection. All of the items are from local artists here in Orlando and are quite frankly, beautiful. Certain items can be a bit on the pricey side, but definitely not all.” — Elizabeth F.

Earth Inspired Living

Photos this page courtesy of earth inspired living, artistree co-op

300 North Park Ave Winter Park, FL 32789 earthinspiredliving.com yelp.com/biz/earth-inspired-living-winter-park “All of the products they carry are made from recycled, reclaimed, organic and sustainable materials. When you first walk in the welcoming smell of so many amazing candles and infusers assures you that you will find something lovely during your shopping experience. So many adorable homemade gifts items from decorations to jewelry to wallets.”

— Colleen B.

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Seasons 52 has made wining and dining easy this holiday season with tips from its Master Sommelier George Miliotes – one of only 180 master sommeliers in the world.

Drink these before they are famous: Sure to be hits are Aveleda Vinho Verde, a light and refreshing white that everyone will enjoy (and is available at a great price point) and Crasto Red From Portugal, where an awakening in red wines is taking place.

Don’t Be Afraid Of Screw caps: Wine bottles with screw caps are fast becoming as readily available as those with corks and you’ll find plenty of high -- quality wines under those easy-opening tops. They range from inexpensive but great value wines like Indaba Chardonnay and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to great Oregon Pinot Noirs like Chehalem or Scott Paul.

For the complete list of Seasons 52 wine tips, check out the BRINK blog at brinkmag.tumblr.com and for more on Seasons 52, visit seasons52.com

Chronicle Stones

by Su Laing

“Don’t lose your creative passion in business mire.

Even if it’s only for 5 minutes, do something EVERY day to make it happen.”

These wise words belong to ornamentalist Su Laing, owner and creative director of Chronicle Stones. The ingenious designs are truly A-E-I-O-U: astonishing, enchanting, innovative, outstanding and unique. Su’s design journey began in comics and animation, transitioned to developing toys and craft kits, and then to fashion jewelry designing for licenses such as Playboy and Hello Kitty. Not afraid of hard work or getting her hands dirty, Su decided it was time to design the story she was living.

For designing Chronicle Stones, Su finds inspiration in the beauty that is life and the story we are creating. This superb collection is based on Su’s story. That story is then passed on to someone who wears it while living their own tale. This is the foundation of Chronicle Stones, and it is an always evolving and glorious collection to take part in.

— Megan Hyde

Quick picks!

Mary Helen Bowers Ballet Beautiful 60 minute workout DVD’s $38.99 balletbeautiful.com

The Freedom Leash 2 Dogs, 1 leash, 0 Tangles $59.99 thefreedomleash.com

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Zelda: Skyward Sword $49.99 amazon.com

Stainless Steel Straws Set of 4 $9.99 mightynest.com/Straws

photos courtesy of bearpaw, ballet beautiful, the freedom leash, mightynest, Chronicle Stones

Must try!

Seasons 52 offers up these holiday wine selections!

Our Pick!

Bear paw

A global brand established in 2001, Bearpaw has quickly become a go-to destination for solid footwear that lasts and keeps your feet cozy and warm through those chilly months.

Shown: Bristol $100 bearpawshoes.com

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walk about walking and shopping is alive and kicking, so be sure add these shops to your next to-do list when visiting the orlando area.

Photos by Garrett Frandsen

Funky Monkey Wine Company funkymonkeywine.com What’s it about: Quick shop to grab that bottle of wine that you almost forgot What you’ll find: Lots of wine

tacos, coconut-curry shrimp, Cantonese beef stew and more Asian fusion

Hawkers hawkersstreetfare.com What’s it about: Asian street fare style food

What you’ll love: Hawkers boasts an easy and charming atmosphere with many dishes at tapas prices and taste as good as it gets.

What you’ll love: Everything about Funky Monkey is easy. Walking in the store is neither an overwhelming or underwhelming experience and they typically have some suggestions for exactly what you might need.

accessories.

Dig deep and there is treasure and brand names to find.

What you’ll find: Fish Will’s Pub willspub.org What’s it about: authentic pub for the hipsters and loyal locals What you’ll find: Equally great selection of brew and music What you’ll love: The best reason to check out Will’s Pub is for the local music scene.

Most nights the music is on point with some new discovery that you’ll be glad you found.

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Déjà vu Vintage What’s it about: Hoarder friendly vintage wall to wall What you’ll find: Men’s, women’s clothing and

What you’ll love: The men’s tuxedo jackets aplenty here and women’s accessories and boiling over the glass counters.

Dig through baskets and buckets of deals and the owner is always open to negotiation. This tiny little shop under 500 square feet is a true discovery in a city as new as Justin Bieber’s latest haircut.

peter Murphy photo by geoff Bassett

in Alabama, New York and Florida knows what they’re talking about.

California’s not for them, but they know what’s best for me. You always have to listen to the guidance of others or else who will you have to blame when if it all goes wrong?

Words With Friends

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like it or not, here’s what peter murphy has to say about ______.

Life’s a great thing. It can take you to places, it brings you to people and it will undoubtedly turn you into more of yourself. New York, Florida, Alabama, New York, Florida and now California – that’s been my journey so far, and it’s been a mostly fun one.

Everyone I know has speculated as to why I would move at the peak of Orlando LIVE’s success. The questions came flooding in: “Do you have something lined up out there?” “Can I have your art collection?” “Are you going to try and get a contact high from Lindsay Lohan?”

The truth is that I’m moving to Los Angeles because I was told to. Since I was in high school, people have told me that I should just “go to LA,” and that I “belong out there.”

So naturally, I’m taking their educated advice and moving just to satisfy them – and to say that I did it. Everyone

My only hope is that upon getting to LA I go broke, live off of others for a 4-5 months and head back home to Cape Coral to tell a lifetime of stories based off of half a year of fun. That way I can tell everyone back on the east coast “it’s crazy out there.” Can you imagine how popular I’ll be in Florida? “Here comes that guy that used to live in California.” “OMG how cool!” I’m just glad I have people to thank for the direction my life is heading. Thinking about everyone that knew just a little more than me along the way is overwhelming. For these friends I’ve made that gave great advice that they themselves have never taken, it’s really wonderful that they would not take their own advice just so they could tell me what’s best for me. I should have had them write it all down so I can keep looking at it.

I’m really bailing myself out with this life strategy so I can get sympathy and respect for simply trying. I think they give out awards for anyone that just moves to LA. I’ll look into that.

— Peter Murphy

BRINK BRINK magazine PO BOX 2371 Orlando, FL 32802 info@brinkmagonline.com www.brinkmagonline.com PUBLISHER/editor-in-chieF kyle m menard EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT steven ozer Photo Editor anastasia garcia Copy Editor jacqueline ford BEAUTY EDITOR michelle cameau social media ben stitzer styling assistant leah davis Social Media melody austin beauté spéciale katie bassham megan hyde ‘ana l. fonua mary winkenwerder Senior Writers katie bassham peter murphy caroline st clair Contributors colleen burns kevin cortez kris gilpin kesi pannell contributing photographer geoff bassett jessica castro stephanie gale photography garrett frandsen badi morris ben stitzer natasha smith Find us online www.brinkmagonline.com LIKE US ON facebook www.facebook.com/brinkmag Follow us on twitter www.twitter.com/brinkmag WATCH US ON YOUTUBE www.youtube.com/brinkmag CALL US TO PLACE AN AD 407.456.4813 General love, questions, Comments inf@brinkmagonline.com Additional words and photos credited where applicable.

Disclaimer: The views expressed by our contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of BRINK magazine, or its management or owners. BRINK magazine has not verified the accuracy or completeness of the content of the submission but has relied on the warranty of the creator as to these factors. Please address any comments directly to the creator.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied by any method, electronically or otherwise, without written permission from the publishing company. All information within is deemed to be true and reliable. The Newsstand Orlando LLC., and all those associated with this publication assume no financial liability for any misinformation or typographical errors in advertisements. We may at times recommend various businesses that advertise in the pages, but we make no claims as to their promises or guarantees or products or services. BRINKmag 2009-2010 contents The Newsstand Orlando LLC.

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You know you’ve arrived when you get a shout out from the president, and that’s exactly what happened to singer CeCe Teneal after performing for Barack Obama before the Democratic Election Campaign Fundraiser.

Her words captured the Commander in Chief, now it’s your turn to listen.

image courtesy of Edz E Antoine edz01.com

must see cece

“See, I just love what I’m doing, that’s why I give my all for it, trying to make sure y’all know,” are some of the opening lyrics from Work, a cut off powerhouse singer CeCe Teneal’s latest release. The selfproclaimed voice of “Neo-Blues” has officially arrived.

There is music by artists that move you, and there is music by artists that knock you down and take you for a ride – the latter belongs to CeCe Teneal. CeCe has one of those distinct voices that could only be described as the love child of Sharon Jones and John Legend – a kind of

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raspy melodic tone that blends beautiful with big horns and leaves out pro tools. Her history of Florida living has made her a well-known artist in the sunshine state and especially at hot spots throughout the region where she regularly performs.

“Let me show ya” are the final words on CeCe’s Work, and it turns out it’s the other way around – we need to show her that she has our attention.

Catch up with CeCe now on her regional tour through Florida, and get her latest release Train from Osteen on iTunes today. It’ll make you work.

More on Cece

Train From Osteen The 14 trackTrain From Osteen (including “Work”) is Cece’s first blues album and is available on iTunes today. Cece pays homage to her hometown, Osteen, FL, with the title. cecetenealmusic.com

30seconds

or less

music Drake Take Care Out Now The long anticipated sophomore album by Drake delivers all that and then some.

If you’ve been waiting for this, and chances are you have, Take Care will not disappoint.

Download: “Crew Love,” “Marvins Room” Los Campesinos!

Hello Sadness Out Now Indie rockers Los Campesinos! are releasing their first album with new drummer, Jason, but still providing the same dancey feel they’ve created over the years.

Download: “By Your Hand” “Hello Sadness” Rihanna Talk That Talk Out Now Another year, another album, Rihanna’s Talk That Talk features only one guest vocal appearance, making this a genuine solo effort.

The record hasn’t been talked about much by Rihanna or fans, so we’ll see what kind of secret she’s been hiding.

Download: “We Found Love (featuring Calvin Harris)”

Book Yelawolf Radioactive Out Now One of Shady Record’s newfound members is finally releasing his debut album after much buzz in the hiphop scene since premiering in 2005. Radioactive is a promising release by rap’s rookie of the year.

Download: “Hard White (Up In the Club),” “Let’s Roll” Kate Bush 50 Words For Snow Out Now Bush’s tenth release of her career, 50 Words For Snow is said to be music “set against a backdrop of falling snow.”

Download: “Wild Man” Amy Winehouse Lioness: Hidden Treasures December 5, 2011 Lioness: Hidden Treasures is the first posthumous release from the late, great singer/songwriter Amy Winehouse. Hidden Treasures features many unreleased songs and demos, hand-picked by producers Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi.

Download: “Our Day Will Come”

The Black Keys El Camino December 6, 2011 The Black Keys are back after last year’s successful effort, Brothers. Fans can expect more garage blues-rock and rawness, as always.

Download: “Lonely Boy” T-Pain rEVOLVEr December 6, 2011 rEVOLVEr is an upcoming album showcasing how T-Pain has evolved (pun intended) as an artist. Three years in the making, this CD will surely provide enough content to make up for loss time.

Download: “Best Love Song,” “5 O’clock” The Roots Undun December 6, 2011 With their thirteenth studio album (!), The Roots’ Undun will be the second release by the band in 2011. This will be another addition to The Roots’ darker and more matured sound since 2006’s Game Theory.

Download: “Make My” — Kevin Cortez

Steve Jobs

Damned

When you think of technology, the first person that comes to mind is Steve Jobs.

Jobs asked to have no control over this book and told family and friends to be honest as can be.

This no-holdsbarred approach really makes you see the kind of passion that he approached to business and the innovative products that resulted of that.

The release date of this much anticipated biography was bumped up a month due to Jobs’ recent passing and if you’re a fan of Apple products, you must read this book. A— Katie Bassham

“Are you there, Satan? It’s me, Madison.”

Thus starts out the latest from Palahniuk (and planned trilogy) telling the tale of 13 year old Madison who finds herself in Hell after dying of a marijuana overdose. There she meets a variety of teenage stereotypes (jock, cheerleader, nerd, punk rocker) and together they embark on a journey to confront Satan himself.

Part Judy Blume novel with a little The Breakfast Club thrown in, Damned is hilarious and I could hardly put it down. B+ — Katie Bassham

by Walter Isaacson

by Chuck Palahniuk

film Meeks Cutoff

take shelter

Michelle Williams and director Kelly Reichardt team up again for the director’s latest film, Meek’s Cutoff.

The old-fashioned square 1.33:1 format gives the western an ironically claustrophobic feel. Set in 1845, it’s a story about three couples who slowly walk through the desert looking for gold while dying of thirst. As they follow a guide (Bruce Greenwood, unrecognizable beneath a huge mane of hair and a long beard), full of far-reaching tales, they come to realize he has gotten them lost. It’s told from the women’s point of view with much of the dialogue literally inaudible since they are always left behind while the men huddle ahead to discuss the pointless trek. The real impact here comes with the end of the film, when you think, “No, you can’t end it here!” That existential moment haunted me for days after seeing this unique indie (spoiler: the ending reminded me of the last shot of John Sayles’s Limbo), giving this quiet little story subtle but extreme impact.

Take Shelter stars the intense Michael Shannon (Bug, a seriously mis-marketed drama!) and Jessica Chastain (Tree of Life) -- a good actress who has happily been all over in the past 1-2 years. Shannon has a great moment when he passionately explodes during a community dinner. He tells everyone there is a huge storm coming which will wipe out anyone who isn’t prepared, so he builds an underground shelter on his property and everyone wonders if he’s going crazy -- like his mother. The beautiful thing about the ending (which took me a few minutes to formulate on the way home) is that it explains everything -- (spoiler: like why he thought he still heard the storm, why his mother’s illness was just a red herring and the irony of them no longer being at their shelter at the end. That ironic ending stuck with me for days and made Take Shelter a unique indie experience. If that sounds good to you, check it out!

— Kris Gilpin

— Kris Gilpin

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— depending on the day — has intrigued the minds of everyone who has been exposed to the work he’s produced. While finding comic relief in following closely behind random people and intimidating their every move, John Starr is just as intriguing as any piece of art he displays.

Taking my mind to different levels and providing me with good laughs, he finds the time to show BRINK Magazine just how a ‘Starr’ has been born.

When did you create your first piece? What was it of?

John Starr: My very first piece of art that I can remember was a tracing of Calvin and Hobbes dancing in their pajamas “Risky Business” style. My brother Matt (Mafew) and I would stay up all night translating the Sunday strips back and forth to one another from our adjacent beds. Sometimes we’d have contests on who could draw the coolest weapons. My guns were always something stupid like chicken fart launchers. His were realistic and impressive. We shared a room because our two younger sisters hated the sight of each other. My baby sister Natalie slept in a blue room with a collection of old antique porcelain baby dolls that my grandmother had when she was a girl. Those dolls were the f-cking worst. I hated their blank stares. I had to sleep in that evil room one night because our relatives were visiting.

I didn’t close my eyes until morning and never stepped foot in that room after dark ever again. This phobia of dolls was spawned from the movie “Child’s Play.” I cried whenever I saw Chucky. Still do.

starr search

Artist John Starr lets it all out - well, almost all.

By Kesi Pannell Photo of John Starr

by Jash Garcia

I

t is often said that artists can have an exceptional taste that takes their minds to an alternate state, which in turn produces work on the highest of plateaus. After catching up with artist, John Starr, I can say that the above has more than just a piece of truth to it. The 24-year-old artist, who secretly aspires to be a film director, or a go-go dancer

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Where do you hope to see yourself in the next five years?

In light-up pajamas. With cake. In 5 years, I will be 29.

Every 29-year-old person I know is either married or has a drinking problem. I am really shooting to be somewhere in the middle. Or on the cover of XXL Mag. Technology is moving so fast I won’t be surprised if we are all fried meat by then. Being 29 will include the following: a cute dog that exudes charm and mystery, a children’s book, my own cartoon show, a new coat, a beard, my own room, and a girlfriend who plays video games. If I happen to be rich though; all of that plus a swimming pool.

Who would your Top 5 Artists be right now?

(In Order) 1.) The Strawberry Dark Chocolate. The Original Mr. Soul Brother. Sam Cooke. The best.

2.) Notorious B.I.G. 3.) Jimi Hendrix 4.) Rolling Stones 5.) Queen If you could have any one super power, what would it be?

My power would be to understand the essence of women.

Fact: The secrets to the universe are hidden in the DNA of females. They will come to power some day. They will look amazing when they do.

We women are definitely difficult to figure out sometimes. It comes with time though. If you had to credit your motivation to a source, who or what would you say was your motivation to begin all of this?

Food keeps me motivated to do what I do. When I am fed, I can do anything.

If you could be doing anything other than what you are doing now, what would it be?

JS: Space Exploration. Dark matter, black holes, aliens, cosmic energy that will grant me super powers to return to earth with sexy results.

Space is infinite. Think about that. You can’t. It’s too awesome. Plus that’s where all the dead rock stars are.

Favorite piece of clothing to wear?

Naked. Or chocolate.

What do you find yourself doing in your spare time?

Talk to myself. Shut up. You shut up. You suck at drawing. Sometimes shuffling.

Favorite places to visit and why?

My head. I have fun in here.

If you had the opportunity to go on a date with anyone, living or

dead, who would you choose?

It’s funny because I play this game with my coworkers every morning after we have breakfast.

It’s always the typical. A hot bod you just want to get weird with. Serious heavy petting, ya know?

But, I would go on a date with Elvis Presley.

Just to see if I have a chance. I’d be way too nervous to say anything.

He’d be nice about letting me touch his hair.

Maybe we could swap tips on the appropriate time to unbutton the ‘3rd’ button of your shirt. You know, the lady-killing chest sneak peak. Classic. He would attract serious babes to our table, and I would have to lie and say I’m the drummer or something. They wouldn’t care though. It would follow up with milk shakes and a California coastal cruise in his pink convertible Cadillac into the sunset. We’d burst into flames instantly. If that’s not true love, then I’d rather die alone.

What is your favorite thing to express through art?

I’m not a very disciplined drawer. I don’t put anything to paper unless I have an idea that either makes me laugh, or an image/comic/thing I think people haven’t seen before.

It’s a really bad process, and I don’t recommend it. I write down the idea and come back to it later to see if it still holds up. That’s why I always carry around my sketchbook.

I love drawing sleeping people on the subway too. It’s always awkward when they wake up though. Basically, if I’m not getting off with my drawing, I quit and move on to something else. Art is supposed to be fun godammit!

Can you give us three fun facts about you?

Three fun facts about me? 1. I have a hole in my chest that I can/have eaten cereal out of. Mostly it’s good for things like goldfish crackers or peanut M&M’s when I’m in bed watching my shows. 2. I once thumb wrestled a crack head on the subway. True story. I beat him 5-2. The only reason he won those two times was because I let myself become distracted by his nail-less infected thumb. Seriously, the shit was beyond gross. He was drinking mouth wash like it was tittie-flavored lemonade. I tried to tell him he was supposed to spit it out, in which he responded, “Fuck off.” That’s what started the thumb wrestling. 3. I am madly in love with my ex-girlfriend, and I will be telling her for the first time in person this Saturday night. Wish me luck. johnstarr.tumblr.com

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SHOP AFISCHL.COM

caroline knows Sit back, relax and let Caroline take it from here Dear Caroline, My friend ‘Sara’ has been in a relationship with ‘Brad’ for five years. Recently Sara looked through Brad’s cell phone and saw numerous text messages from a ‘James’. After reading the texts it became apparent that ‘James’ was actually a ‘Jen”’ and that some serious flirting was going on. When confronted Brad denied that he had cheated and Sara seems to have accepted that. It really bothers me that Sara is letting him off the hook when he is obviously up to no good. What should Sara do…and, as her friend, what should I do?

— Lost in Translation Dear Lost in Translation, Flirty text messages are like gateway drugs—they can often lead to actual full-on cheating. It’s disheartening when a friend we care about won’t leave a bad relationship (and this guys is definitely a grade A jerk) but the decision to end it is hers alone. That time will come…it always eventually does. In the meantime don’t give your opinion unless it is asked for and simply be her friend. Hopefully Sara will soon realize life is way too short to share with a cheating douchebag.

Dear Caroline, I’m kind of obsessed with accessorizing right now and love to PILE them on. Coco Chanel famously said to always remove one accessory before leaving the house. Do you think that rule still applies?

— Obsessively Accessorized Dear Obsessively Accessorized: Chanel did indeed preach the gospel of fashion restraint but she also sometimes wore a gazillion pearl and chain necklaces all at once!

The trick is balance: Want to pile on an entire armful of bangles?

Then go without a necklace. Sporting a huge, blingy necklace? Pair it with small stud earrings. So choose one area to go wild and leave the rest simple…wearing everything at once just makes you look kind of crazy…and usually not in a good way!

From the Vault: Dear Caroline, My girlfriend and I live together in a house that she owns. I pay half of the mortgage as rent each month which is comparable to what I paid for my previous apartment. Since I’m pretty handy with tools, and the house needs a lot of work, I spend a lot of free time helping with renovations. My girlfriend thinks I should also pay for half of any materials that go into the house since someday it will be ‘ours’, but I’m hesitant. Although I hope we will eventually marry there is no guarantee that will actually happen.

I’m already spending most weekends working on the house and I think that—in addition to my rent—is enough. Am I being a selfish jerk by not wanting to pony up for materials when I legally have no claim on this house?

— Not-Yet-House-Husband

Dear Not-Yet-House-Husband: True story: My friend (I’ll call her Jenna) was in a similar situation to yours. Jenna paid rent in her boyfriend Doug’s 1930’s house that was in desperate need of renovating. Jenna dutifully spent hours and hours chipping up old tile, scraping peeling paint, and dragging heavy planks of wood up the stairs. I recall an entire week dedicated just to sanding down wallboard which was such a dusty ordeal that Jenna suffered a severe allergy attack. Jenna spent almost a year of grueling work helping Doug create the perfect dream home for when they got married. And you know what happened after that?

Once the house was finished Doug broke up with Jenna and within a year had met and married another girl—a girl who got to move right into that beautifully restored bungalow that Jenna had poured hours of back-breaking (and heart-breaking) work into.

Jenna didn’t spend a lot of money on building materials but she did invest a huge amount of time, emotion and physical labor on the house that she assumed someday would be hers. My advice to you is this: if you enjoy spending your free time working on your girlfriend’s house then keep hammering away! But until you two are married—or you have some kind of legal claim to the equity you are helping put in the house--your money belongs in the bank and not at Home Depot.

Email Caroline at caroline@brinkmagonline.com

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Street Style

Redando Estiverne

Tiffany Jones

Morgan Robinson

Krystal Wilkinson

photo by jessica castro

photo by badi morris

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photo by badi morris

photo by jessica castro

Pedro Lopez

photo by jessica castro

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“I have a lot to say” says Lisa D’Amato, one of the stars of The CW’s America’s Next Top Model All Stars. There’s more to Lisa than meets the eye. Behind this well packaged model and singer is a brand that is pouring over with personality and ready to take center stage.

From her stints on various reality television shows to her budding music career, funloving personality Lisa D’Amato would appear to be on a speeding train to hitsville.

Currently on the All Stars edition of America’s Next Top Model (one of the series highest rated cycles), we sit back and watch as Lisa dominates the competition. Fans of Lisa would know that her best attribute is that she speaks her mind. After being told by Top Model judges that she has too many “jumping” images in her frames she is once again at odds. The photographer on the latest Top Model episode (a judge as well), wants her to jump over a greek column. She explains that she doesn’t want to jump out of concern that the judges will pick that frame and seal her fate to be sent home later that day. She’s one of the only contestants on the reality show to speak up for herself, and that’s exactly what people love about Lisa. When others would sit back, she brings up the issues, on camera.

And that’s one trait that bolsters her career to new heights separating her from the pack she plays with How do you feel about the current America’s on TV. With her In 2005, television audiences were introduced Next Top Model All Stars? Do you feel you are to you on America’s Next Top Model Cycle music career fairly portrayed on the show? Is there anything 5, but since then, you’ve become more than a different between All Stars and Cycle 5 that the personality and more of a brand. What do you currently on audience doesn’t get to see? feel most passionate about today? display and new Since — and even before — 2005, I was working America’s Next Top Model All Stars is way music videos different to me than it is from my cycle [five]. It consistently in modeling, commercial, acting and performing arts in Los Scandalous. I have been is a branding season, and it seems that the show dropping, we pounding the pavement in Hollywood my whole has evolved towards a less dramatic, less indulgent get to see a new life. Modeling has always been my platform in place in terms of editing. And the producers really want to show the girls in a light that seems order to work my way into the performing arts side a of Lisa, a to be beneficial to all parties — in terms of the and entertainment industry. I hit it big in the side that shows modeling world at the very young age of 15 when Entertainment Industry. I personally felt very hurt and betrayed by their portrayal of me in Cycle 5. us that this girl I started booking everything from Teen, Sassy This time, I feel as though the me they’re showing and Seventeen magazines, campaigns for XOXO is exactly who is a more realistic, more honest depiction. A lot and Barney’s New York, as well as huge runway she says she is of the girls this season have expressed a lot of shows and so on! I loved modeling and still do. discontent with the All Stars cycle because the It’s fun!

The problem with just modeling is that I and beats to the branding aspect didn’t seem to meet their quota. have too much to offer and too much to say to just sound of her Branding to me means entertainment industry. If be strictly a visual image. I don’t want to just be you can’t sing, act, dance, model, write music, a model — or even a TV personality — I want to own drum. We be a role model. All the odds have been against host, or perform in front of a camera, what did get to watch as me from the very beginning, even with modeling, you want ANTM All Stars to provide for you in Lisa D’Amato terms of competition? Show you playing cards, because I went through such a challenging sleeping, or playing basketball? My business card childhood filled with neglect and abuse.

I really develops her unravels to the floor in this industry — including strive to pave the road for kids that feel defeated brand right seamstress. And what?! before they even are able to stand on their own, which is why I stand by freearts.org. before our eyes.

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In the past few years, you have developed a great music career. Your new album Flippin’ the Bird recently dropped, and your single for Soldier just had its music video debut. Can you tell us about the background behind the album and the single?

Soldier was written three years ago actually. Thanks to my producer Colin Hartel, the lyrics found a home. I wrote it because of the way I felt at a very vulnerable time in my life. When I presented it to my producer at the time, he thought it was cheesy. He wanted me to write more songs about partying, which sucked for me because I really wanted to touch people. Party music is always fun, but if I can’t express myself genuinely then what’s the point? I came from a storm, and I know a lot of others did too. I feel I was meant to be here, not only to show people that they can have fun, but also I know what they are going through. My song Soldier is truly from very sad moments in my life -- moments that I know a lot of people can relate to.

We follow you on tumblr, and your presence on the social networking platform is great. You seem to answer a lot of questions, both good and bad, on the blogging site. Do you feel it’s been a great way to connect to your fans?

I do! That’s why I made a tumblr. I want them to feel free to ask me anything.

I love being able to share a personal side to life as a way for them to maybe learn from my life. I think people trust me a lot because they have seen me fail — that is captivating and relatable, yet inspirational. I am a rebel. I am opinionated. I am fearless. The world of the web, which is full of amazing young people, can be very fickle yet brutally honest in and of itself. These people either love or hate me or love to hate me, and that’s fine. At least they are affected in one way or another; being that I make them feel strongly. I find that it is a good thing because they are trying to figure out who they are. My favorite thing to do on the internet -- this might sound strange — is when I respond to a hater who says they want to punch me in the face or die or something ridiculous like that, I simply let them know I can hear them. They usually respond feeling bad.

I think I make them more aware of what they write on the Internet and who it effects. People tell me not to respond to

haters, and I get that, but I don’t need to just feel good about myself and ignore it so that it doesn’t affect me. I hear and see everything regardless. I couldn’t buy thick skin. I had to earn it. What I can do is bring awareness to cyberhate. I’m strong enough, and I can take it. I feel like I was built to make a difference.

What icons have inspired you over the years?

Whoa! This is a big one. Janis Joplin, Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, Willie Nelson, Madonna, The Beatles, Stevie Wonder and Lady Gaga.

All these artists have no apologies for being who they are and what message they wanted to say, and I bow down to that. There are a lot more I should mention, obviously, but we’ll keep it short.

What’s on your iPod? Well, I have all of the above. I have Beck, Mickey Avalon, Scissor Sisters, Pink Floyd, Rush, David Bowie, Aerosmith, Brittany Spears, Lady Gaga, Black Eye Peas, Shwayze, Dev, The Cataracs, Janis Joplin, and yes, I listen to myself. My songs seem to hit home with me.

What’s a “fun day” for Lisa?

Oh my. A fun day for me is being able to have my quality time alone working out with my iPod on full blast, taking my babies — my dogs Ponchirelli and WallE — to the squirrel park, and cook everyone dinner, as well as being granted the time to sit in my secret room to write another song to a beat that I love. I also love taking my dad to Dave and Busters.

I’m one of those people that really feels special when I know I’m needed. I love feeling involved, and I love solving problems. But I also like to be the leader of fun, along with one of my best friends Brendan Vaughn (my manager), and I love dancing for hours on the dance floor with my girl Lilly Rose. I’m also a workaholic. I love to stay busy.

What could you tell us about your style?

My style is incredibly unpredictable. I love bright colors — and lots of them.

I was raised in Southern California; it’s not my fault! You’ll never see me in a logo’d out anything. I like original everything, and I like to mix and match with usual finds from anywhere. Saying

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I like to stand out from the pack is an understatement. I also make a lot of my own creations being that I’m also a seamstress.

What would you want people to most remember you for?

Pushing the envelope, paving a way for others who want to blaze their own path and not being a conformer just because that is the way to be. I am a transformer who pays it forward. I’m not scared of what people think, as long as they do think! I really want to help bring awareness to diversity and acceptance. It seems strange to me that it is almost 2012, and yet we still love to box everything in with judgement and ridicule. I want people to be more curious as to why, and to learn about someone or something rather than to judge or write off. It is so unfair to those that get written off and so unfair to our society in general.

There is so much getting lost, and it is sad. Great stories don’t get told, and so many feel unaccepted.

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in the entertainment business?

I’d ask everyone to truly understand what they are, what they want to stand for, what they have to offer, and what they want to prove. If they can’t answer any of those then we have a problem Houston.

Any final words?

I have D’Amato Mottos!

• Don’t listen to what people say; watch what they do.

• At the end of the day, you can always trust you, so you should always feel free to be you. So many people have been paving that road before you, if you don’t, that trail will get taken by someone other than you.

• Always take a chance for yourself.

• Life is too short to conform into being someone other than you. Be-you-tiful!

Follow your heart. xox ~Lisa lisadamato.com lisadamodel.tumblr.com

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• styling assistant leah davis at leahdavisstyles.com • • typography by karli ingersoll at karliingersoll.com • • model photos by jessica castro • gift photos by natasha smith at plushglamour.com • H&M images courtesy of H&M •

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Grey Member’s Only Jacket. $34 Green & Blue Plaid Button Up $18 www.otherpeoplesproperty.com

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T

BRINK BEAUTY

his holiday season, give yourself a reason to break out of your same old beauty routine. I love the holidays – a busy magical time of year of friendly gatherings, hot cocoa and jubilant spirits. Living in sunny Florida, the change of seasons comes in the form of in-store props, seasonal magazine covers and pumpkin spice lattes, but that doesn't mean you can't update your makeup to rock a new holiday style.

For the most part, people wouldn’t wear a strong eye and lip at the same time, but for the holidays – and depending on your personality – it works.

I created a dark smoky eye with a vibrant red lip and soft pink lip. Use a dark eyeshadow base for depth and a brown shadow over top. To deepen and smoke it out even more, add a bit of black shadow to the corners and along the lash line.

Add lashes for a more dramatic look, and keep the skin light and airy. Polish up your red lip with a matching lip liner, and use concealer around the edge of the lip for a clean line.

If all else fails, jazz up your nails with nail art! Try an ombre style, or make them look like mini gifts. Festive nails are the perfect way to add a bit of flare to your holiday ensemble. The nail polish colors of the season include reds, nude, taupe, earthy greens and bold blues.

By: Michelle Cameau Beauty Editor & Pro Makeup Artist

TRY: M2M Damorejon nail polish in Scarlette - $14 available at

M2MDamorejon.com Milani Lip Flash in Hot Flash - $7 Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Designer Browns - $8.99 Dior Rosy Tan Eye shadow Palette - $59 Rouge Dior Lip color in Pisanelle Pink - $32.00

GUYS CORNER

There are many variables that can cause razor bumps and promote ingrown hair. Shaving in the wrong direction, dirty razors and not exfoliating or moisturizing prior to shaving can cause major irritation. You need to lift the hair away from the follicle to avoid a bumpy unattractive neck – not cute. After a proper shave, use a skin-tightening treatment with Tea Tree oil (a natural astringent) and Willow Bark extract (a source of salicylic acid) to help reduce the problems associated with shaving. Try: B & C Skin Tight - $11.99 Credits: Photography by Azwah Saadiq, www.azwahsaadiq.com Makeup and manicure by Michelle Cameau for Milani Cosmetics and M2M damorejon Model Natasha Zoricic of Wilhelmina Models

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matt pl u n kett

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I’m sure that if you were to ask photographer Matt Plunkett 10 years ago if he saw himself sitting in Mexico, sipping on a Mango Margarita today, his answer wouldn’t have been yes. With time though, brings about change, and this 24 year old from South Florida has definitely experienced a large amount of it. Now instead of attempting to catch “still” shots of action movies from his VCR, Matt is catching live shots of all of your favorite celebrities. Shooting for artists that range from ScHoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar, Tyga, and let’s not forget, C. Breezy himself, Mr. Plunkett has been a very, very busy man. Trading in his old trusty disposable camera for something a little more fancy, he decided to let BRINK catch a few of his most recent shots with some pretty cool people. – Kesi P. // mattplunkett.com

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Matt Plunkett portrait by Larz

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“I was never told I had to shoot photos. I guess I could do anything, but I just had fun doing this. It’s all about doing something you like at the end of the day.”

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The Last page

twitter

the barometer

2012

Ellen Barkin’s tweets.

feed

Bring it on.

Composting!

Strange kind of fun!

@bengrimwood In other news, I am such a hooker for pad thai

Exciting new spring TV shows!

Jason Segal & company singing “Life’s a Happy Song” in the fun loving,The Muppets.

Disappointing fall TV shows

Miss Representation Eye opening doc on women in power positions. missrepresentation.org

@Love2Snap Purchased the HP Photosmart Plus today! :) Lots of printing going on. I highly recommend it...it’s not real fast

Heart wrenching/ confusing music videos for Gaga, Katy Perry and Rihanna.

Political drama that only about to get worse in the new year.

B

@msobservation Got a feeling I will be up half the night revising my business plan. But hey when inspiration hits...

For More On BRINK, Visit www.facebook.com/brinkmag

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pepper mint latte

4%

4%

gingersnap latte

4%

19%

6% hot tod coco dy

Hot 2%

don’t like egg nog IHoliday drinks

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61%

What’s your favorite holiday drink?

pumpkin spice latte

We asked 100 people on the street:

REDHOTCHILIPEPPERS.COM

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PURE ZEN PURE ZEN

we can’t promise inner peace. but inner purity? yeah, every bottle comes with that.

we can’t promise inner peace. but inner purity? yeah, every bottle comes with that.

©2009 glacéau, glacéau®, smartwater®, bottle design and label are registered trademarks of glacéau.

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©2009 glacéau, glacéau®, smartwater®, bottle design and label are registered trademarks of glacéau.