DELUX Magazine v3.10

HOSEA CHANCHEZ • STACI STATIC • DARIUS BRADFORD • RITA ORA • LONDONS WING HOUSE • DJ KUT

SPIKE LEE Brooklyn’s Back

with a Red Cape

2012 FALL FASHION MUST-HAVES

TEAIRRA MARI LOVE HIPHOP AND R&B October/November 2012 www.delux-mag.com v.3.10

LIVING A DREAM How to make a living

in the Fashion Industry

MEAGAN GOOD ROCKS!!!

H.E.L.L.O. GIRLS

+ 5

must have carry ons 1

@tequilaavion @tequilaavion facebook.com/tequilaavion facebook.com/tequilaavion

2

3

DELUX MAGAZINE V3.10

CONTENT 8

12 WAYS TO BE DELUX What you dont want to miss over the next 60 days

10 TRUTH OR DARE Our Publisher and teairra Mari square off in a three question battle

69 HOME INSPIRATION Fall trends for the home. Spruce that home office up for the Fall

23 DELUX INDIVIDUALS

24 20 TEAIRRA MARIE We sat down with Love & Hip Hop’s newest cast member to find out a little more about the girl who was famously signed to Roc-a-fella then suddenly dropped.

Meet true influencers in our communities. The trendsetters of our generation

32 TEAIRRA MARIE The beautiful Teairra MAri graces our cover and gives us the inside scoop

44 FASHION WITH ADIKTION Fall Fashion Spread Featuring Sharrell Hall & Adiktion fashion

54 THE ROC’S RITA ORA

Dubbed the UK’s version of Rihanna.

Rita Ora is makinging her own way

58 THE WEEKENDER Nightlife at its finest. We show where the champagne is flowing

62 LONDON’S WING HOUSE London & Son’s... enough said. # classic

64 H.E.L.L.O GIRLS

32 32 A DJ SAVED MY LIFE

Did you know Meagan Good was in a band? Uh we didnt eiher... introducing The H.E.L.L.O Girls

69 HIP HOZ Redd Williams transforms THE Wiz into a hip hop trendy remix

DELUX Individuals: Orlando Watson, Wes Allmond, Nate Brown III, Darius Bradford, Staci Static

DELUX MAGAZINE No. 38 · OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012 · Year 3 · PUBLISHER Keith Griffin II GRAPHIC DESIGN G5IVE MEDIA GROUP SUBSCRIPTIONS $19.99/YR. Mail Subsciption Cards and Payment to 2907 Magnolia St. Louis Mo 63118 DISTRIBUTOR Cowley Distributing Jefferson City MO IPAD APP Available in itunes store WEBSITE www.delux-mag.com ADVERTISING Email Ads@delux-mag.com SUBMISSIONS Email submissions@delux-mag.com PRESS RELEASES Email PR@delux-mag.com 4

W

r?

u struttin re yo gF a o ho

October 6 - Missouri History Museum in Forest Park

The Sista Strut Rally is 8:00am-10:00am. The Sista Strut Walk starts at 10:00am.

Did you know that African American women are more likely to die of breast cancer than other races?

We strut for our mothers, our sisters, our friends, ourselves. Who are you strutting for?

Registration Info:

• Individual: $15/per person

- Registration includes a 2012 Sista Strut t-Shirt

• Team: $25/per person (maximum 50 people)

Registration includes: - 2012 Sista Strut t-Shirt - Commemorative Sista Strut head scarf - Team photo for each team member (photos will be given to team captain).

Pre-registration deadline is August 31st.

Register NOW at SistaStrutSTL.com A portion of the proceeds benefit The Breakfast Club, Inc., an African American breast cancer support group, The Black Women Breast Cancer Survivors Project, a community-based project at UMSL and The Siteman Cancer Center.

sponsored by:

kmjm.com

5

EDITOR’S LETTER

DELUX CREW Keith N Griffin II PUBLISHER @DeluxMagazine Lawrence Bryant Managing Photo Editor @lbfoto1 Leneia O’Hara Editor-in-Chief Michael Winfield Creative Director @brklynstl Kyle A Griffin Social Marketing Guru @DeluxPromo

“Remind yourself. Nobody’s built like you, you design yourself.”

Truer words have never been spoken. In both music and fashion, what’s old becomes new and what’s new gets old really fast. Unless it’s a classic-of course.

And in classic fashion, the beautiful fashion foward songtress Teairra Mari graces our Fall Fashion + Music edition. Her voice and timeless beauty caught our eye when she originally signed with Jay over at THE ROC but then her sudden disappearance made us wonder if she was ever there. We sat down with Teairra Mari and discussed life, success, and her future now that she has landed on a new label--plus she’s on S.L.I.M’s new mixtape #FREEPROMO-- and we had to ge the scoop.

Now easing into Fall’s fashion trends, Lawrence Bryant and Sharrel Hall of Adiktion put together this months fashion spread based off the ‘70s classic THE WIZ. Speaking of The Wiz-- besure to get out and support St. Louis’ own Redd Williams as he has a Hip & Trendy remake of The WIZ performed at COCA October 6th. I hear the show is amazing as he is very talented choreographer.

Since last time things have really been taking off here at DELUX--we have a new iphone/androd app that is interactive-- meaning there’s video, behind the scene footage, a soundtrack made for each issue available for download through itunes, and so much more. Lets just keep supporting one another so big things can happen for St. Louis’ we all deserve it.

Lastly, one of my favorite companies-- Candy Shop Bikes/Skateoards just launched a Skate line in NYC and it was a huge success. Just wanted to give them a BIG UP!! Follow them on Facebook.

Until next time.

Peace & Blessings

Keith N Grifin II Publisher 6

Writers Seven L Maxwell Tiffany Shawn Leneia O’hara Jeanine Photographers Lawrence Bryant Arthur Smith Keith N Griffin II Sales Kimberly Wells Publicist/PR Rep Shuntae Shields Ryan Kandis Knight(ATL) Advisory Board: Jacque Land Dr. Christi Griffin Bethal Harris Jeffery Witt, Esq Trina Claggett Kim Moses Anthony Sanders

Delux

ine

magaz

n ipad Now o load Down Y!

TODA

s will

Tree

k you

than

-the

lorax

DELUX-MAG.COM JULY 2011 | 7 7

DOZEN

12 WAYS TO BE DELUX IN OCTOBER + NOVEMBER

oct2

SOUL ELATION... A CELEBRATION OF SOUL

5

Soul Elation is the culmination of a Need, a Yearning, A Vision & a Request for The Return of the Essence of What Soul is, As Interpreted By a Diverse Array Of Talented Individuals. THE COLISEUM 2619 WASHINGTON

7

hip hoz at coca.

October 5th-7th

Jump n Funk meets Global Warmth Rich Medina & Mark Hines w/ Enoch is Real, Creative Pandemonium, DJ Will Power & Jingo 9pm | LOLA 500 North 14th Street St. Louis

11

Thursday night house party @LolA

6 annual sister strut walk

majic 104.9 & halleujah 1600am

Sista Strut 2012. 3rd Annual 3K Breast Cancer Walk Saturday, October 6, 2012. Missouri History Museum Forest Park - St. Louis, MO.

OF THE NIGHT HOLLOWEEN 27NIGHTMARES PARTY/CONCERT FT DANA DANE

a high energy, hip-hop adventure down the yellow brick road. Created by international hip-hop sensation, and COCA’s own, Redd Williams.

Tickets starts at $16 www.cocastl.org

Delux Magazine and Rockhouse Ent has teamed up for a night of 80’s/90’s throwback hits + a little Karaoke.

Doors open 8pm @ LOLA $3 Clear10 Martini’s and a $3 food menu

The biggest old skool hip hop halloween party/concert of the year! Breakdancing and bottle specials. SATURDAY OCTOBER 27TH @ THE COLISEUM!

NOV1

3

6

Madonna LIVE Scottstrade

Frank McComb w/Marcus and Jean Baylor @ PLUSH

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OBAMA vs Romney

The Suite Soul Spot Concert Series in association with Learn about musical form in this innovative program VanitaApplebum Entertainment Services presents pairing hip hop choreography by COCA’s Redd Williams with classical favorites performed by the STL Symphony. Frank McComb featuring Marcus and Jean Baylor, Live at Plush St. Louis, 3224 Locust Street, Midtown

Uh!!! DELUX THE VOTE!!!!!! Please get out to the poles let record record numbers as we did in 2008

6

CHOCOLATE DROPS @ 16 CAROLINA the sheldon

Roberson - at the millenium 24 Eric Hotel

Presenting a modern take on a traditional sound, the Carolina Chocolate Drops! With their eclectic mix of old-time string music, hip-hop, soul and bluegrass, the Grammy-winning group

the 13 Black Kats bring you another spectacular engagement Thanksgiving weekend with thei annual Red Carpet affair. Be sure to get tickets early they do numbers

HIPHOP SYMPHONYPowell Hall @3:00p

Learn about musical form in this innovative program pairing hip hop choreography by COCA’s Redd Williams with classical favorites performed by the STL Symphony.

8

9

TRUTH OR DARE

DELUX PUBLISHER KEITH GRIFFIN II & TEAIRRA MARIE SQUARE OFF IN A 3 QUESTION DUEL

WHAT WAS THE MOST SCANDALOUS PICTURE YOU’VE EVER POSTED ONLINE? Not sure about scandalous but maybe foolish... Took me to a while to get those pics out of the google search queries so there’s no way in hell Im bringing that up again. LOL!!! Get you minds out the guter it wasnt that bad...

1 2 3

NO SCANDALOUS PICS! (Laughs) I was told a very long time ago by Mrs Norwood (Brandy and Ray J’s Mother/ Manager) NEVER to post/take any salacious pictures in my phone/laptop that ANYONE can have access to. I won’t make that mistake.

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WISH YOU DID IN H.S. THAT YOU NEVER DID? I think I accomplished as much as I wanted to in high school. I think I was still trying to find out who I was as a person. It was just a chapter in my life which led me to where I am now. So no complaints.

Something I wish I did in High School? Hmmm... Honestly I don’t have a regret?!

WHAT IS THE KEY TO YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS? The keys to my creative process... uh! Avion Tequila and Clear 10 Vodka.. no just kidding ( I’m sure our supporters loved that one)!!! But just trying to stay ahead of the curve, researching and being committed and overly determined to stay relevant. But above all trusting the Delux team. They are really the catalyst of my “creativity”...

10

Key to my creative process: Keeping positive people around met to encourage me to do great... also having great producers/song writers that are on the same creative page as I am....

11

w facing reality.

12

w

hat is a home? What are the basic things that constitute a home? A home is not merely four walls and a place to lay your head. It is your space. Your lifetime of curated goods, your touches of expressive décor, and the lingering smell of breakfast in the air at 11am.

Look around. Take it in. Touch your throw pillow. Listen to the sound of ice falling in your freezer. And then imagine it gone.

It can happen to you. In fact, it can happen all too easily.

Homeless faces are those we tend to place in its particular mental box.

Stereotypically, they dig in the dumpster behind your favorite restaurant, and we catch listless glimpses of them on nights we’ve indulged in one-too-many glasses of wine with our 4 course meal.

They live in the homeless park. They ask for change. They hold up catchy signs at the freeway exits, and people capture their images, and add Buddhist quotes to their moment, and spread them on social media. And we sit in our climate controlled cars, scrolling our Facebook feed, catching a glimpse of the oh-so-sad images that never quite seem “real,” and maybe. Perhaps. We shiver a bit at the brief thought of it happening to you.

Let’s not be brief today.

Let us take a journey. You’ve lost your cushy 9-5, benefitted, office job. And you’re working as a cashier for less than 1/2 of your previous salary because your unemployment benefits ran out last week. And you’re working as a bartender at night. No one will hire you in spite of near-desperate searches, LinkedIn updates, and networking happy hours. Your phone begins to ring with bill collector after bill collector calling about student loans, over-the-limit credit cards, car payments, insurance, and mortgage. You’re sinking fast. Your significant other is unemployed because the rising cost of childcare didn’t allow for work outside the home, and is now unemployable because - let’s face it - emerging into the workforce after children is impossible in this economy.

You’ve lost your grip on juggling the fiscal balancing act. You’ve robbed Peter to pay Paul, and Peter is back with

DELUX REALITY

a vengeance. You’re in trouble. You come home from your night job to see the eviction notice lying on the coffee table. You look up to see your toddlers sleeping peacefully on the couch. Their breath is slow and steady, and full of peace and possibilities. Meanwhile, you feel the hopelessness seep into your blood, and the harsh reality sinks in fast.

Fast forward 90 days. Doomsday.

You’ve reached out to everyone you know for impermanent solutions of family couch surfing while you keep looking for work and more work. Your child is getting sick, and you have no health care. The clinic didn’t help your child any more than it helped you when you broke your dental crown. “Here’s some pain medicine and antibiotics for you to hold you over until you get in to the dental clinic. But hey, they’re not accepting appointments until next week.” And next week comes, you wait, and three months from now, you’re in to see that dentist.

and no more white picket fence.

Statistics from the National Coalition for the Homeless: Many people in homeless situations are forced to live with relatives and friends in crowded, temporary arrangements. People in these situations are experiencing homelessness, but are less likely to be counted. For instance, of the children and youth identified as homeless by the Department of Education in FY2000, only 35% lived in shelters; 34% lived doubled-up with family or friends, and 23% lived in motels and other locations. Yet, these children and youth may not immediately be recognized as homeless and are sometimes denied access to shelter or the protections and services of the McKinney-Vento Act (U.S. Department of Education).

Philanthropy:

It’s a sickening downward spiral.

Insert YOUR image “HERE” You’ve taken to living in lice-ridden shanty motels, using your nightly tip money for the room fees and your cashier check for day to day living expenses. You are eating fast food from the 99 cent menus, getting sicker by the day. There’s no refrigerator or stove in a motel room. Your family is sleeping in one room, and happy to have running water. And one day, you don’t make enough tip money, and you all sleep in the car, or at a shelter for a few nights to save for the good nights in the motel.

Those are the good nights.

Bleak.

Do you feel like crap yet? Good.

Because for you, this is only someone else’s story. Or is it? How many paychecks from failure is your life?

Rewind to the mental box where the face of homelessness lives in your mind.

Ask yourself who belongs there. There on the streets. The streets filled with unsavory characters, mental institution rejects from state budget cuts. Drug addicts, junkies, runaways, single pregnant mothers, and now add to that face: the suburban family of 2.4 kids

You. You get up and go help. Here are some ways you can.

Gateway 180: Gateway180 is a valuable resource for women and children experiencing the unimaginable burden of homelessness.

They provide safe, nurturing emergency shelter services designed to get women, children, and families into transitional or permanent homes in less than 30 days Contact: 314.231.1515 info@gateway180.org GATEWAY180 1000 N. 19th St St. Louis, MO 63106 YWCA of Metropolitan St. Louis: The Phyllis Wheatley Transitional Housing Program. For information about the Transitional Housing Program, contact Stephanie Jones at sjones@ ywcastlouis.org or call 314.533.9400 x 233 13

DELUX ESSENTIALS

AKOO is an acronym for A KING OF ONESELF. We are a contemporary streetwear collection designed for men of exceptional style, character and creativity. The brand was founded by Grammy award winning artist, song writer, music and film producer, and actor, T.I. By wearing AKOO you are joining a movement of men committed to being A KING OF ONESELF.

HOTEL IGNACIO | ST. LOUIS' undiscovered BLISS Dining options at Hotel Ignacio Saint Louis include 2 restaurants.

A beach bar and a bar/lounge are open for drinks. Room service is available. The hotel serves full breakfasts each morning (surcharges apply). Recreational amenities include a 24-hour fitness facility and complimentary bicycles. This 3.5-star property has a 24-hour business center. Complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access is available in public areas and the hotel has a computer station. This St. Louis property has event space consisting of banquet facilities and exhibit space. Additional property amenities include a coffee shop/café, gift shops/newsstands, and coffee in the lobby.

Guests have access to a partner property’s indoor pool, outdoor pool, health club, and recreational facilities. This is a smoke-free property. www.hotelignaciostl.com Located at 3411 Olive Street St. Louis, MO 63103.

CLEAR 10 VODKA CLEAR10 Vodka is the vision of three Midwest friends who decided local grains and naturally-filtered water were the perfect recipe for nature’s clear libation.

SEROUS BAR STOOL EXCLUSIVELY BY MICHAEL STOLWORTHY

A formidably difficult form to create, the “Serous” Bar Stool (meaning fluid like) is a modern piece of furniture art. It’s defined by its infinite geometrical lines, modern aesthetics, and fluid design. The chair is forged with absolute care from start to finish ensuring the finest quality possible.

The piece is realized through several stages of digital design technology, modern manufacturing, and ancient casting methods. A mother mold that forms the anomalous shape is hand crafted by a highly skilled foundry artist traditionally trained in fine art metal sculpture making. www.michael-stolworthy.com

Their background in farming, mixology, chemistry and 50 combined years consuming quality (and not so quality) vodka has provided the brand with an extremely fastidious palate and a knack for crafting amazing vodka.

CLEAR10 Vodka is locally crafted in small batches and slow-filtered 10 times. This meticulous process allows them to create the most luxurious vodka in the world, free of additives. The result is exceptional taste, clean finish and uncommon clarity. And did I mention Gluten-Free! www.clear10vodka.com

14

15

DELUX ESSENTIALS SHADES OF ORANGE wewe love de bubbley In 1811, just a year after they were married, Pierre Nicolas Perrier and Rose Adéla de Jouët released the first bottling of Perrier-Jouët champagne. Even at 200 it is among the youngest of the champagne brands that make Americans giddy: Moët-Chandon (makers of Dom Perignon), Veuve Clicquot and Roederer (makers of Cristal) are 18th century institutions.

When it comes to taste and quality, though, Perrier-Jouët can easily go bubble-for-bubble with its older compatriots. And when it came to celebrating its two-hundredth year, if you ask the house itself, it might have outdone them.

It is a conversation that begins with the Perrier-Jouët Bi-Centenaire sculpture and that will last nearly 100 years. And it involves lots and lots of champagne...

glossybox special delivery Beauty is about emotion, discovery, and inspiration. We strive to create a special beauty experience that enhances all these elements for you. Every detail of our presentation has been thoughtfully constructed, each brand has been vetted to our highest quality standards, and every selection has been carefully curated to surprise and delight you.

We hold ourselves to these impeccable standards so we can be the leading resource for you on global beauty products and trends.

Glossy box elverages the power of our community of beauty lovers from all four corners of the globe to bring you the most cutting-edge trends.

Whether it is the latest looks from the runways of Milan, the sun-kissed trends from the beaches of Brazil, or the newest skin care regimen from Japan, we make sure you hear about it first. Together, we provide the most desirable platform for you to access everything you need to know about beauty in this moment.

16

The gap between postmillennium hip hop and Gonzo journalism has gone without being connected for far too long. Breaking down yet another barrier is artist Frank Ocean, whose new music video for the Channel Orange song “”Pyramids”” is highly reminiscent (intentionally or otherwise) of the 1998 film Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Inspired by the writings of late Rolling Stone reporter Hunter S. Thompson, the movie harpooned stars Johnny Depp and Benicio del Toro into a twisted, demonic adventure through a hallucination-laden Nevada.

In “”Pyramids,”” Ocean hops on a motorbike and speeds down an equally ominous desert road. Zooming past distortions of shrubbery and telephone poles, Ocean’s tortured character eventually reaches a hellish strip club, comprised of nearreptilian figures (again, reminiscent of Fear and Loathing) charged with entertaining the depraved clientele.

It’s not quite the celebration of hedonism for which some music videos seem to opt. Instead, Ocean’s entire video (directed

by Nabil Elderkin) seems like a take-down of this subculture, and its pressures on young artists like himself. The lyrics of the song suggest sexual encounters between Ocean and various anonymous women, which is interesting to note considering the R&B artist’s recent proclamation that he is gay. Could Ocean’s song act as an illustration of the tropes of debauchery, aggressive masculinity, and heterosexuality that many members of his genre are compelled to uphold?

MINORITY BUSINESS FUNDING The 2012-2013 MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneurs Series (MUES) business plan competition is now open and accepting entries.

Since 1999, MillerCoors has invested more than $1.7 million in the dreams of entrepreneurs. This year brings new opportunities for entrepreneurs like you. Enter your business plan for a chance to vie for a $50,000 business grant and potentially become a MillerCoors supplier.

Designed to empower minority businesses, the MUES program continues to provide business development resources and insights including interactive Twitter discussions and online videos.

PEARLY WHITES AT NORDSTROM

No need to spend money on expensive professional teeth-whitening treatments. Introducing Tanda Pearl Kit: A revolutionary new ionic teeth whitening system that uses patented ionic technology to deliver professionally whiter teeth in 5 days and visibly whiter teeth in just 5 minutes—with no sensitivity. The Tanda Pearl Kit is the first and only device to provide 360-degree total whitening with its one-of-a-kind double-biting tray that treats all of your teeth front and back. Enamel-safe and easy to use, the ionic whitening gel dissipates stains deep inside the teeth with no sensitivity or irritation to deliver your whitest, brightest smile quickly and comfortably.

17

FILM

SPIKE LEE

SPIKE LEE’S RED HOOK

upper middle class folks. … My only concern is when they replace the projects, when they push out the poor people, where do those people go? Where are they living?”

The acclaimed director heads back to Brooklyn in his latest film

T

here comes a time when an exceptional director does his “passion project,” the film that he’s been wanting to make for so long but has been too busy doing good movies to take the time out. For Spike Lee, that film is Red Hook Summer. We had a chance to site down with the Emmy winning director over coffee.

From the current political scene, to questions of race and class and even his beloved New York Knicks, Lee moved effortlessly from topic to topic — somehow making it all feel connected and relevant.

18

“Red Hook Summer” (opening Friday) is yet another motion picture focusing on Lee’s home base in Brooklyn, that New York borough he has watched evolve from its mostly working-class roots to a collection of neighborhoods that now include a great deal of gentrification.

When hearing a reporter’s dislike of that word — “gentrification” — as seeming intrinsically elitist, Lee laughed and said, “What else are you going to call it? If you have another word, a better word, let me know.

“Gentrification is what it is. It’s all about poor neighborhoods changing and being inhabited by

BELOW Spike Lee captres the mood of the inner city projects. Lessons are sometime not learned but taught.

We witness a clash of cultures and economic classes as young Flik Royale is forced by his mother to leave Atlanta to spend the summer with his grandfather — the outwardly religious Bishop Enoch Rouse, the pastor of a struggling storefront evangelical Christian church adjacent to the remaining projects in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

DELUX

A LIFE IN PICTURES

MAI LEE Beauty, Brains, and Vocals. Mai Lees new cover shot by Demond Meek

Celebrate legendary photographer Gordon Parks with this beautiful new retrospective volume “These images and words are a gathering of individuals, events, places, conflicts and dilemmas that confronted me as I shifted from course to course in pursuit of survival. Some star-coloured, others, painted with rage, fall like rain in my memory. They all simmer down to what I remember, forgot, and what at last I know.” Gordon Parks.

Parks’ photography.

It is the most extensive publication to document his legendary career.

Widely recognized as the most important and influential African-American photo grapher of the twentieth century, Parks combined a unique documentary and artistic style with a profound commitment to social justice. Working first for the Farm Security This five-volume Administration collection surveys five and later for Life decades of Gordon magazine, he

mai lee

specialized in extended narrative picture stories on difficult subject matter. Covering crime, poverty, segregation, the politics of race and class, and controversial personalities, Parks became legendary for his ability to meld penetrating insight with a lyrical aesthetic. He was thus able to introduce a broad and diverse public to people, issues and ideas they might otherwise have

ignored. Parks was remarkably versatile, travelling the world to photograph news events and fashion, as well as the worlds of art, literature, music, theatre and film. Later in life, he reconceived his vision in fundamentally personal and poetic terms, producing colour photographs that were allusive rather than descriptive, symbolic rather than literal.

FITNESS

MAI LEE GETS FIT St. Louis R&B sweetheart keeps it fit and SEXXXY!

VIKTOR & ROLF

LIMITED EDITION LA VIE EN ROSE Flowerbomb reinvents itself in “La Vie en Rose”.

The sparkling Limited Edition Eau de Toilette is a fresher, lighter version of the iconic Flowerbomb fragrance, for a burst of endless happiness and the power to see life in

pink.

About Viktor & Rolf: Dutch designers Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren, the creative duo behind Viktor & Rolf, bring an appreciation of high art to the worlds of fashion and beauty. The

Viktor & Rolf fragrance collection began with Flowerbomb, launched in 2005 along with their fashion collection of the same name. www.nordstrom.com

Mai Lee’s new single Fitness dropped earlier this month, and guess what?

There’s a VIDEO, yo!

She looks gorgeous rocking her workout gear. This powerpop song makes you want to do crunches and eat your vegetables!

This Bradd Young production transports her sweet, lithe vocal sound and maintains the focal point that vocals deserve. He sets the Sunday-

driving melody over a twinkling synth-hop track, and BAM! It’s a hit. Her delivery maintains an edge that kept us listening. This song is catchy! Catch it on iTunes and check out the hot video on YouTube Directed, Produced and Edited by Pascal Beauboeuf. www.facebook.com/ maileemusic www.twitter.com/ maileemusic www.youtube.com/ user/Maileemusic 19

DELUX STUFF | FOR THE HOME

PHONE HOME Bang & Olufsen BeoCom 2 Cordless 2-Line Handset $299

ONE TOP A small table base with a big personality.

Pier One Imports $119.99

DELUX STUFF Here at DELUX we believe in living life to the fullest...

Feel free to endulge

DESIGNER RADIO IPOD CLASSIC ALARM CLOCK RADIO. SHARPER IMAGE ST. LOUIS GALLERIA $179.99

CANT GET ENOUGH Priceless paintings from Cbabi Bayoc. www.cbabibayoc.com

TELL THE TIME ARYA Limited Edition www.azadwatch.com

SCHWIN CUTTER ‘12 BIG SHARK BICYCLE COMPANY 6133 DELMAR AVE ST. LOUIS 63112 $409

20

HOME INSPIRATION

THE NATURAL AMBIANCE The neutral palette is undoubtedly inviting and adds a classic chic quality to home design.

Home Office desk day dreaming ...

Having a fab workspace at home may require extra motivation to tackle the to-do list... oh well

BACK TO BASICS

There is something to be said about the timeless looks of a neutral palette in interior design.

If you’re looking for a perfect marriage of traditional and contemporary designs, then a transitional interior may be for you. In a transitional interior, furniture lines are sophisticated,

simple and often feature either straight or rounded profiles.

To keep the focus on the simplicity and sophistication of the room, designers will keep color palettes neutral and decor to an absolute minimum.

It’s easy to start drifting off into a make believe fantasy world when you’re supposed to be working. Try to focus your mind on the perfect desk to stimulate your creativity like the Docker from John Lewis. It provides a wide working space with four soft closing drawers and is made

from solid wood and foiled wrapped lacquered MDF. Simply stunning and stylish, the Treviso, created

by Matthew Hilton for British design house ercol is available from John Lewis.

Passo home office desk, approx. $490 depending on size. www.gomodern.co.uk

Modern designers are all about creating spaces that add pops of color ranging from vibrant teals to shocking yellows, but palettes of tans, beiges, and browns are still the rage for the social elite.

GO NATURAL The 1958 molded plywood stacking chairs by Norman Cherner are perfect for home, office or cafe. The seat is made of laminated plywood of graduated thickness, from 15 plys to 5 plys at the perimeter of the shell. Reissued in exacting detail from the original drawings and molds, strong, lightweight and like the original, made entirely in the U.S.A. 21

22

DELUX

INDIVIDUALS

26 ORLANDO WATSON 27 WES ALLMOND

29 NATE BROWN III

30 DARIUS BRADFORD

THE TURNTABLE KNOCKER

DJ KUT

One on One with St. Louis’ most notable DJ. The Turntable Knocker DJ Kut...

BY SEVEN L MAXWELL PHOTOGRAPHRY ARTHUR SMITH 23

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH DJ KUT

Inspired by his own ambition and armed with the arsenal of education needed for his signature sound to thrive, DJ Kut knows the inner-workings of the radio industry, and is determined to leave his mark on an industry who never saw him coming. Considered as a complete DJ, his trifecta of talents lands him in a position to overcome obstacles and silence doubters as he proves why it is he who has the juice.

It was all a dream, and there he was. A young college kid guided to Florissant Valley College’s radio station by his instincts and natural talent on the turntables. He had no real audience until seizing the moment to learn the inner-workings of a small station and making the most of his opportunity.

After fighting to create a segment for rap radio, this young visionary became the mastermind behind “Rhyme Tyme”, a concept currently running on the station—only under a different title. He was confident in his abilities but it was his foresight which helped mold him into the Turntable Knocker, DJ Kut. DJ Kut is one of the city’s most celebrated masters of the mix. Since 1992, when landing a permanent position on the number one station on the airwaves, Majic 108; he’s been innovative in his concepts and kept listeners tuned in to the creative collage of what was in his create. DJ Kut is proud to be a pioneer of one of the fans’ favorite segments, “The 7o’clock Slam”, which kept the airwaves blasting through the city. As he worked to learn every aspect of the biggest station in the bi-state area, Dj Kut was handpicked to work behind the scenes producing the sexy and soothing, “Quiet Storm” by the legendary voice, Doc Wynter.

“I’d accomplished a lot of things I wanted to do. I became the DJ who did all the high profile parties, from Larry Hughes getting signed to and throwing his party, and djing parties for Ced the Entertainer, concerts for [comedian] G-Thang, and Joe Torrey’s: Give Back the Love thing he used to bring to the Savvis Center at the time; to St. Louis American’s Salute to Excellence Awards.

“I became that DJ who could DJ at that hood club on the east side [Way in the] Back, the upscale events at the Ritz. From the hood to the Ritz and 24

I became that DJ who could DJ at that hood club on the east side Way in the Back, & the upscale events at the Ritz...

throw my own events. Eventually I left and went to New York”.

When departing from St. Louis radio in 2002, he took with him a wealth of knowledge and experience which would prepare him for the opportunity of a lifetime—a position at Power 105 in New York.

While in New York, he was on various television shows, rocked some of the most high-profile parties in the world. After learning from the best in the game, traveling the world, and being featured in top Hip-Hop publications, The Source and XXL; DJ Kut knew he had arrived.

After overcoming every obstacle in front of him and accomplishing every goal he set for himself professionally, he followed his heart and headed home. As the night jock and Music Director at Foxy 95.5 in St. Louis; DJ Kut can be heard Monday through Friday 6pm and Saturday from 8pm, with both slots running until midnight. Although he still lends his talents on Friday nights from midnight to 1am at 107.5 WBLS in New York; he gets to enjoy the simple things such as spending time with his kids.

“The Journey is not done because I’m on the programming side. The next step is program director and above,” DJ Kut exclaims. With St. Louis on his side, he’s continuing to build his brand, one mix at a time.

25

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH ORLANDO WATSON

THE SURVIVOR

ORLANDO WATSON A survivor true enough. From surviving a battle with life threatening cancer, losing hi s beloved mother of the same disease. Orlando continues to smile and and making hits as a producer.

AS TOLD TO LENEIA OHARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART SMITH 26

Orlando is a man with many talents, serving also as a business executive for RockHouse Entertainment: a Record & Production Company founded

by Platinum Producers Orlando “Prettyboy” Watson, and Bradd Young.

Orlando has worked with some of the hottest names in music including Teddy Riley, Kelly Rowland, Akon, Bone Thugs & Harmony, Swizz Beats.

“I started ‘Survivor’ because I was just happy to be alive after my own

battle with cancer. I wanted to do something bigger to celebrate my life. The response was huge. I was like wow; this really means something to me, and to other people. Now that I’ve lost my mom, I do feel like I’m on a crusade. She was my best friend,” says Orlando.

“My parents helped me realize my dream. I went to a run DMC convert. I told ‘em I had to have two turntables and a microphone, and I want to be a

DJ and make beats. One day I came home from school and they were sitting on my bed. Then my dad got me a drum machine. It dawned on me after losing my mom that they helped fuel the fire.”

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH WES ALLMOND

PROMOWORKS

Wes Allmond With out promotion your business cant survive. Wes Allmond owner of PromoWorks-proves just that PROMO WORKS.

AS TOLD TO TIFFANY SHAWN WPHOTOGRAPHY BY ART SMITH

Wes Allmond worked for years and years increasing the profit of another man’s company before deciding to go into business. “When artists came in town, we’d take them around to the radio stations. I started PromoWorks 4 years ago while working [for them] and was doing my side projects. I took that idea of doing street marketing and put it towards my corporate clients.”

Being newly married gave Wes a convenient exit

from the music business and into the corporate world. He’s worked with clients such as Red Bull, Cricket Wireless, and the St. Louis Science Center.

He helps run their events, puts up flyers, sets up tents and booths at events, conducts product demonstrations, and his company hosts giveaways with the clients products.

Through PromoWorks, Wes does video work too.

“We do all of Radio One’s advertising videos for the

sales department. We’ve done web content shoots for the Department of Health and Statefarm. I shot and filmed the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage Cruise; all the live performances, seminars, parties, and comedy shows.”

Wes has done photography for Delux Magazine and worked with St. Louis’s own Made Monarchs as well. He’s proof that you can see your dreams to fruition, cut out the middle man, and

be an entrepreneur. www.WesAllmond.com

27

28

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH NATE BROWN

DNA FRESH

NATE BROWN, III Behind every facet of fashion lies inspiration and creativity, and for DNA Clothing Boutique owner, Nathaniel “Nate” Brown, III, inspiration is everything.

AS TOLD TO SEVEN L MAXWELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART SMITH

A product of the Cochran Projects, ambition was often encouraged by his parents as young Nate evolved into a self-taught student majoring in style.

After spending his high school years and beyond traveling to cities that seemed to cultivate the scene, Nate discovered how deep-rooted he was in his passion for fashion. “When we went to New York, Miami, LA or wherever, the first place we’d run to were their shops.” Nate continues, “When other people would run straight to the

strip clubs, we’d always go straight to the fashion.

That’s all we’ve ever done”.

And so began his grind….

“I started out in Footlocker and worked at Underground Station and all that stuff,” Nate explains. “I managed IAM and SNKY. When they closed, I was out of a job. I was grinding, but I was itching to do this business.” It was his deep-seated desire to step out on faith and rewrite his destiny; defying all odds and developing a plan to put his vision into practice.

After years of being a

consumer of the craft, Nate continued to save for the day his destiny would drive him back on the path he planned. Then, there it was: DNA Clothing Boutique.

“It was last min. I found a spot, worked a deal out with the guy, and I just launched it. No business plan, no investors, no bank loan—nothing.” Although, most counted him out, the success of his boutique boasts that of a bigger picture. Encompassing the cross-cultural phenomenon through fashion, the customer-base of DNA is unparallel to other urban

apparel stores in the area.

“It’s all about fashion.

Inspiration is the everyday things I see, from skateboard culture to high fashion…. It’s everyday life”.

Stop by DNA Clothing Boutique located at 1308a Washington Avenue for the most exclusive brands in the bi-state area, or shop online at www.DNAStl.com, or http://DNAStl.bigcartel. com.

Follow DNA on Twitter: @ DNAStL 29

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH DARIUS BRADFORD

THE SURVIVOR

DARIUS BRADFORD Darius Bradford is definitely a comedian that continues to shine through.

AS TOLD TO ASHLEY BROYLES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART SMITH 30

Bradford, 34, came up in the University City area of STL, where he learned of his love for comedy.

A comedian was born inside of Bradford in 1993 when he placed second on the well renowned Def Comedy Jam on HBO. Looking up to STL’s very own Cedric the Entertainer, who was also his mentor at the beginning of his career, and the very funny Eddie Murphy, his comedy career first began.

Bradford has been featured on Walter Latham’s Comedy After Dark, an online stand up broadcast.

He still has many goals to reach in his career – write his own movie and to be cast in a movie, just to name a few.

“I am looking for my movie moment”, exclaimed Bradford when asked about his future goals.

His ultimate goal is to take comedy to a whole new level, much like the well known Tyler Perry.

“I just love comedy itself – people who love what they do and understand what it’s all about”, was Bradford response when asked about other comedians he enjoys working with.

For Bradford, comedy is not about punch lines.

His comedy tells a story.

“It’s real feel good comedy” said Bradford.

He’s the type of comedian that talks up about people, since anyone can talk down on someone.

“The front row is

definitely where you want to be at one of my shows”, bragged Bradford.

Something he feels everyone should know about him.

“I absolutely don’t know how to do stand up per say, I just know how to tell my story. I just lucked up!”

In Bradford’s words “Real life, straight up, honest to God I am just getting started on where I want to be”.

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH STACI STATIC

THE VOICE

STACI STATIC Staci Static the queen of Radio personality sat down with DELUX and xplained why she has only just began to shake up the airwaves.

Radio personality for the afternoon drive on Hot 104.1 in St. Louis, Staci Static breaks in new music every day for listeners. She considers herself a freethinker.

While Staci may be well known around town for her work with the radio station and hosting various events, there’s much more to her life. She’s very passionate about music and especially food (of which the food enthusiast says she will begin to blog about more).

Most important, Staci is a mother of two daughters.

She states on her website, www.StaciStatic.com, “I face some interesting challenges that I’m sure a lot of other mothers face. Balancing career and family, how to look cute with natural hair, how to care for an infant (it has been 16 years!!), and continuing to raise a teen girl in this day and age…all with a daily soundtrack.”

Be sure to follow Staci’s journey to see how she manages it all!

AS TOLD TO TIFFANY SHAWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART SMITH 31

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITHTEAIRRA MARIE

TEAIRRA MARI Tiearra Mari has made an amazing move from the gritty streets of Detroit, to the concrete jungles of New York. Like most starlets, her humble upbringing helped create a sensational sense of reassurance in her talents, but her time with the first family of hip-hop taught her, the music business is just that--business.

32

ON THE COVER

TEAIRRA MARIE TEXT KEITH GRIFFIN II/SEVEN L MAXWELL

Tiearra Mari has made an amazing move from the gritty streets of Detroit, to the concrete jungles of New York. Like most starlets, her humble upbringing helped create a sensational sense of reassurance in her talents, but her time with the first family of hip-hop taught her, the music business is just that--business.

Now she’s back and ready to roll. Armed with a new-found respect for the unforgiving industry which has eaten many artists alive, Tiearra Mari is back and ready to bless the game with the familiar voice which landed her at the top of the Roc. So where were your born and raised.. Tell us about life coming up on The eight Mile?

I actually grew up in Detroit, MI (not 8 mile which technically is a street in the area’s Mile Road System.) Growing up in the 90’s was a great time musically because that’s when I fell in love with music such as the “new jack swing sound.” I LOVED groups like Guy, Jodeci and I LOVED Mary J. Blige.

When did you first start singing? Or at least knowing you had talent?

Tell us about your experience at Roc-a-fella:

What’s the most frustrating thing about being an artist?

situations with grace; that’s very important in life!

It was surreal... a girl like me from the D, riding around and getting it with Jay Z and the whole ROC fam... that was a PRICELESS experience.

The waiting game! (laughs) If you could form a super group, who would be in it?

Eminem and Tupac! (laughs) Like a “Black Eyed Peas” flow!

How was working with St. Louis homeboy SLIM on “through it all”? You two doing anything in the near future?

What did you learn from it?

To be all about my business in this business!!

How’s working with Rico Love: I love working with Rico! He gets me as an artist which is VERY important in this industry.

If you could go back – knowing what you know now – to that sixteen year old fresh off the bus Teairra Mari, just signed to Roc-a-fella, and say one thing, what would you say?

I would tell her to keep her family VERY close! I would also school her on handling

Slim is like family... it’s always a blast with him!

When you coming back to St. Louis?

Hopefully very soon! ;-) Now Tell us a secret?

We wont tell: I’m in love.................. With youth! :-)

I was a young girl when I first discovered my talent and I was only 11 when I recorded my very own song! Before that, I used to sing and talk on my grandma’s inspirational albums; I was about 4 or 5 years old at that time.

33

Office of Minority Health Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Margaret Donnelly Director

Jeremiah (Jay) Nixon Governor

The Office of Minority Health: • Monitors the programs in the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for their impact on improving health equity for African American, Hispanic American, Alaskan/Native American and Asian/Pacific Islander American populations.

• Advises the director of the Department of Health and Senior Services on all matters that affect health equity for all Minority populations.

The Office of Minority Health is responsible for: • Participating in the health education, design and implementation of culturally sensitive and competent awareness programs that reduce the incidence of disease in Minority populations and increases the knowledge of available resources.

• Analyzing federal and state legislation for its impact on the health status of Minority populations.

• Developing programs that can attract other public and private funds.

• Assisting in the design of evidence-based programs and evaluations targeted specifically toward improving the health status and promoting health equity for all Minority populations.

• Providing necessary health information, data, and staff resources to the Missouri Minority Health Regional Alliances and minority communities.

• Collaboration with community and professional organizations, community health centers, universities and colleges, and federal, state and local public health agencies.

The Office of Minority Health supports: • Six regional minority health alliances (Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, Eastern, and Central).

• Community-based organizations and activities.

• Senior services outreach.

• Education and capacity building seminars and trainings.

• Faith-based communities and initiatives.

• Technical and advisory assistance related to minority health issues.

Office of Minority Health P.O. Box 570 Jefferson City, MO 65102 (800) 877-3180

www.health.mo.gov The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER Services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.

34

Joseph Palm Chief

HO SEA

PROFILED

HOSEA CHANCHEZ AS TOLD TO SHA’LINDA JEANINE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BET

CHANCHEZ Known for his disarming charm, down-to-earth disposition, and unquestionable talent, Hosea Chanchez is proving himself to be one of the most-watched talents on the rise in 2012

A

triple threat, Chanchez has been developing his craft in film, television, and theater over the past few years, and is not slowing down anytime soon. Chanchez is best known for his current, starring role as “Malik Wright” on the hit BET comedy “The Game,” a smart, cutting-edge show about professional football players and the women entangled in their lives. Chanchezʼ acting talent, charisma, and instinctive sense of humor has already won him notable acclaim, and has made “Malik” a truly multidimensional character; the star quarterback who is brash yet sweet, and is dealing with his sudden success. “The Game” ran for three seasons on the CW, and in January 2011 returned for its fourth season on BET, debuting to historic ratings. In January 2012, Chanchez will return to television, for the fifth season of “The Game.”

Chanchez relishes his comedic role on “The Game,” but he has also shown great promise in

dramatic roles evidenced by his work on in film, on the stage, and in episodic television.

He had the lead role in the feature RICH QUICK, and has held supporting roles in THE OUTSIDER, and MY BROTHER. In 2011, he appeared in 96 MINUTES, which premiered at the SXSW Music and Film Festival, and he co-starred in independent features DYSFUNCTIONAL FRIENDS and THE COST OF HEAVEN, both are in post-production. His theater credits include productions of Royal Oats and Glory, Shop Life, The Wiz, and The Long Walk Home. His television credits include: CBSʼ “NCIS,” FXʼs “The Shield,” Warner Brosʼ “Everwood,” CBSʼ “Close to Home” plus recurring roles on “Robbery Homicide Division” and “For Your Love” [WB].

Chanchez was born in Montgomery, Alabama, and spent the majority of his childhood in Atlanta.

He was raised by a loving family who recognized his talents and encouraged

him to pursue his dreams.

From the moment he sang along to his grandmotherʼs records, Chanchez displayed an inherent knack for performance. He knew by the age of 10 that he wanted to be an actor. Soon after graduating from high school, he headed to Hollywood. Although he ran into the classic rough start that many young actors encounter, he found a job as a car salesman and used his free time to learn the audition process and perfect his craft.

He honed his craft through various classes and workshops and ultimately found an agent. Soon after, he landed the first of approximately 50 commercial bookings.

Chanchez humbly considers his “big break” to be the moment he became a working actor, and appreciates ever day he has on set.

While in between acting jobs, Chanchez took the time to develop a non-profit organization, Watch Me Win, which is dedicated to enriching the lives of urban youth

through mentorship, leadership development, encouragement, and empowerment. Watch Me Win celebrated the foundationʼs first successful year with a celebrity Benefit Gala in Los Angeles. Aside from his organization, when not working Chanchez loves to read, paint, and write music.

He also considers himself a “foodie,” loves to eat out, and has the best restaurant recommendations. As far as being a cook himself, he is learning to master the grill and is forever experimenting with ingredients in his quest to make the perfect salad.

To stay in shape and allow himself his foodie indulgences, he visits the gym regularly.

He also stays well grounded by being in constant contact with his family in Georgia, and by being a good dad to his spoiled English bulldog, Lola. In 2012, Chanchez looks forward to continuing to work on “The Game,” hopes to continue to work in film, and will create more projects with his new production company.

DELUX Magazine V3.9 | 35

DELUX FASHION | FALL 2012 ESSENTIALS

FALL FOWARD IMAGE COACH Shuntae Shields Ryan helps those who may need to polish their professional image, establish presence and learn how to exude radiance, confidence and poise benefit greatly from having an Image Coach on their team.

Image Coach.

Do you know who you are and what you stand for? Are you aware of how you are perceived by others and how you present yourself to the world? These are some of the most important aspects to having a very progressive, balanced, and well-lived life. Your behavior in public and private moments acts as your life’s billboard; as your personal brand. Everything from how you feel on the inside (confidence/ self esteem), to how you look on the outside (wardrobe/style), and what you’re projecting to those you come in contact with, is how I help people as their Personal

Regarding outer presentation, fall is right around the corner, consider it an opportunity to evaluate and update your wardrobe, purge your closet and incorporate some items to help you advance, forward and step up your look.

Here are a few fall fashion tips: Men: Layering and knitwear are in this fall. Whether it’s pairing a tee and scarf with a jacket and boots, or an oxford with a sports coat or knit blazer, leather jacket and jeans with soft leather loafers, it’s a simple yet still very relevant look. Don’t be afraid to throw a double breasted jacket in the mix and add a tie for a wear-to-work look.

Earthy browns, camels, grays, navy blues, army green and prints will represent the mix of colors for men, depending on your style.

Ladies: Slim fit trousers and jeans, peplum tops, knee high boots, colored jeans, hard case handbags, capes and cloaks, sweaters, sheaths, plaids and platform shoes

that pop, (even with color), are your go-to looks for the fall.

Shades of red, plaids, royal blue, color-blocking at its best and incorporating color into your everyday neutrals will perk up your wardrobe.

For each category, remember, your personality really dictates what the end result looks like and will pull it altogether for you! Choose pieces that work for you and that make you feel comfortable while wearing them.

However, if you’re in the midst of or need to reinvent yourself, you may have to take a bold step or wild leap just to stand out or be noticed, personally or professionally.

For more tips on how to stand out, be bold and get noticed or how to improve your outer and inner self, follow me at facebook. com/ryanimageconsulting.

36

FALL 2012 ESSENTIALS

CARRY-ON

DELUX FASHION

Yves Saint Laurent

Hamptons Large Leather Holdall Bag

Maybe it’s a papers-and-folders problem, or a gym-clothes-andsticks-of-gum problem, but this problem — too much stuff to carry around — can easily be solved with the purchase of a good bag.

Take the stylish route to weekends away by packing up this Yves Saint Laurent leather holdall. The understated accessory is detailed with a subtle ‘Y’ emblem on each side, and is crafted from tactile leather giving it a slick finish. The perfect bag to add to your favourite pair of chinos, it’ll complete a high-flying look.

Gucci

Cannes Leather Holdall Bag

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie

Charleroi Leather Holdall Weekend Bag

Dark brown leather holdall bag from WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie with two handles, an adjustable detachable shoulder strap and three internal pockets; also featuring a collapsible removable canvas day bag.

Mulberry

Medium Clipper Holdall Bag Black scotch grain Mulberry holdall bag with contrast leather trim, canvas and leather handles, a detachable shoulder strap and metal feet.

Styled in solid black, this bag is perfect for taking quick city breaks with effortless flair.

Spacious and supple, this Gucci holdall bag is ideal for weekend city breaks and overnight business trips. The Italian label has been making luxurious leather luggage since 1921, and this piece pays homage to the brand’s strong heritage and updates it with a red stripe for modern jetset style.

Jean Shop

Signature Leather Weekend Holdall You can’t judge a book by its cover, but you can tell an awful lot about a man by the type of luggage he uses. Investing in a smart, classic holdall ensures you’ll always arrive at your destination with your sartorial credentials intact.

Crafted from the softest of leather, this piece from Jean Shop has a covetable well-travelled look and feel, while its roomy capacity will allow you to pack everything you need for a long weekend away.

37

Making money with fashion: A guide to loving what you do When the average person thinks of the "fashion industry", most think of two basic business opportunities - Boutique Owner and Designer - and one famous movie - The Devil Wears Prada.Both are great business opportunities, and the movie was funny (even if my wife forced me to watch it), but let's open our eyes and take a look additional abundant fashion business ventures.

The fashion industry has so much more to offer. The key word is “industry,� which means there is a collective of many working parts that come together in order to clothe the world. In this huge industry, you can play a key part in the development of a new trend, the distribution of merchandise or even a key figure in developing a new fashion company.

Here are a few prime examples of businesses you can start within the fashion industry to make your mark.

Personal Shopper: Many busy executives don’t have time to shop or keep up with the latest fashion trends. Personal stylists help their clients find a style that fits their personality and lifestyle. This business is low on cost, but you must have a great network of potential clients, a very good shopping sense, and plenty of time.

Fashion Line Representative: Designers often have difficulty developing relationships with retail buyers and concentrate on their design task. Fashion representatives showcase lines to industry buyers for a commission.

training, you can earn a living representing fashion trends.

Fashion Blogger: If you notice people following your style, then you may be able to attract an audience as a fashion blogger. With a nice website and a large following, you can critique the latest fashion trends. Selling advertising on your website and charging for your speaking engagements are ways to monetize this growing career choice. It takes time, but it can be done.

Online Store: The average clothing store does not need a physical location anymore. You simply need cyberspace. It is a fast and inexpensive way to begin. There are two major draw backs. You must constantly advertise to get people to your website and you must design an exciting website that holds the average customers attention.

If you know how to design a website this may be the perfect business for you.

In addition to these ventures, you may try your hand at: Marketing Guru, Event Planner, Store Floor Designer, Fashion Magazine Editor, Personal Trainer or Private Label Manufacturer.

Seamstress: Sewing is truly becoming a lost art. Yet individuals who purchase quality high end clothing demand the services of a top notch seamstress to repair their precious possessions. This business is considered a trade skill position. It requires that you learn the craft and perfect it before you build your clientele.

As you scan our small list of opportunities, do not pick the one that is the easiest to start. Pick the one that fits your personality and lifestyle.

Remember, in order to set a trend, you must take calculated risk. This is not an industry for those afraid to take risk and those who refuse to do research. Best of luck to you and your new venture!

Model: Spokespersons are in high demand within the industry. You can contract work with many different business and command multiple revenue streams. Models are no longer required to be a size zero.

Various sizes, ages and backgrounds are welcome to define the face of the audience of a product. If you have an exotic look and proper

Curtis Triggs is the Director of Saint Louis Business Resource Center. SBRC is a membership based nonprofit business development agency. For more information or to contact Curtis Triggs, please visit their website at www.stlbrc.com

38

NOW AVAILABLE ON IPAD

39

DELUX FASHION | FALL 2012 ESSENTIALS

autumn shade

Makeup artists played with dark and light this season, working soft and neutral tones into the skin one moment then pulling out pots of deep rouge and atmospheric ink the next. Take that as your cue to make a statement with a rich excess — or sleek absence — of color on lids, lashes and lips. Either way, it’s forward thinking for fall.

K By Beverley Knight

Provides a full range of products that address all of the issues overlooked for darker skin tones.

Lancôme’s Color Fever Gloss ck one Powder Eyeshadow Quad

faces.com ($20)

Eyeshadow palette with varied textures and finishes - from pearlized to matte, light to intense. ck.com ($28)

Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner High Precision Aqua Eye Liners Make Up For Ever’s liquid Aqua Liners are totally waterproof, highly pigmented formula does not irritate eyes. Available in a variety of amazing colours and finishes matte, iridescent & diamond. gurumakeupemporium.com ($17) 40

Dior 5 Couleur Eyeshadow in Aurora Use the copper shade in the inner crease of the upper eye lid in a outward blending motion. Then, apply the brown shade in the middle of your upper and lower eyelids (blending over your black eyeliner). Then, to finish off; sweep the light gold color under the eye brows for highlighting. dior.com ($59)

Smashbox Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette

The sultriest shades of the season for iconic smoky eye looks, hot off our studio sets! This limited-edition palette features Smashbox’s velvety-smooth Photo Op Eye Shadow formula in 6 hi-res hues, plus a double-ended brush. ulta.com ($39)

41

DELUX FASHION DELUX FASHION | FALL | FALL 20122012 ESSENTIALS ESSENTIALS

INGE CHRISTOPHER ZETA MINAUDIÈRE, $170

INGE CHRISTOPHER YASMINE FLAM CLUTCH, $235

INGE CHRISTOPHER ZETA MINAUDIÈRE, $170

SHE’S CLUTCH Animal prints are still a favorite season after season, and this fall they are making a serious statement.

Inge Christopher and Whiting & Davis have a fierce collection of animal print bags, sure to leave your wardrobe untamed.

Inge Christopher Yelena Flap Clutch, $258 42

Whiting & Davis Dark Gattopardo, $180

Inge Christopher Zara Flap Clutch, $235

DAJÉ COUTURE, LLC

COUTURE ACCESSORIES FOR WOMEN AND MEN:

Necklaces, Bracelets, Earrings, Rings, Purses, Scarves, Sunglasses, and Shoes COUTURE APPAREL FOR WOMEN: Custom designed and crafted apparel.

Alterations on all garments.

If Fashion Was Crime, Would I be an Accessory?

Visit our website at: www.shopdajecouture.com and like us on Facebook: DaJeCouture

43

44

“We are off to see the Wizard / The wonderful Wizard of Oz/We hear he is a whiz of a Wiz / If ever a wiz there was”

PHOTOGRAPHER LB CLOTHES ADIKTION BY SHARRELL HALL MUA MAKE UP BY KEISHA HAIR BY DANI RAE AND KRIS WILKERSON OF URBAN SALON PROFESSIONALS 45

“When I think of home/ I think of a place where there’s love overflowing/ I wish I was home/ I wish I was back there with the things I been knowing”

46

Crow Commandments: “Thou shalt honor All crows /Thou shalt stop readin’ all bits of paper and literature /Thou shalt never, Never get down off Of this here pole” - The Crows 47

“If I only had a heart...”

48

“I’m A Mean Ol’ Lion” -Fleetwood Coupe Deville

49

“If you believe...”

50

51

DELUX

A MALE PERSPECTIVE

THE PURSUIT TO HAPPINESS Is chilvery dead? Well maybe its time we adjust with the times...

T

he number one point of frustration with the dating discussion of today is the fact that women have chosen not to conform to the times in terms of give and take.

When it comes to dating the women who complain (on blogs) about men not “playing their role” will say something similar to this: “I would NEVER ask a man out on a date; that is THEIR job to do! Men should be the ones choosing who they want to be with. And when he notices the girl, he should show her the sort of person he is by what he plans, what he wears, how he speaks to and treats her and whether he follows up the next day.”

Back in the day they used to call this sort of thing courtship and it 52

was done when a man was looking at a specific woman to marry. It was a process and it didn’t come with multiple women; it was normally one woman who the man had set his eyes on to win over.

I hate to break it to you women with the same thought process as the above quote, but despite your “traditional” want for a mate – dating is not courtship, dating is dating. It comes with multiple people vying for your attention, selfish motives, and the desire to do as little as possible to get the most result. This is why a one-night-stand is like hitting a homerun for a casual dater.

Nobody wants to court you… why would they when there are so many prospects? Think about it. I will quote a bit of what mob boss Joe Bonnano had to do to win his wife in

the old 1940’s time period in Castellammarese Italy.

“In any case, it would have been unseemly for Fanny and me to converse openly without the formal approval of her father.” (73.

A Man of Honor) To speak to the woman he had to get a sponsor (his uncle) to vouch for him to the woman’s father: “My nephew Peppino, who comes from an upright family, as you well know, don Calorio, and whose good character I can vouch for, would like to express, in accordance with our custom,

his good intentions toward your daughter Fanny” (74. A Man of Honor) I had a good friend of mine do a similar ritual when he wanted to marry his girlfriend of 3 years before asking her. He met her father, sat with him and let him know his love for his daughter and his intentions – then assured the gentleman that he could not marry her without his consent.

I agree with what my friend did in respect to tradition. When it comes to marriage if you are a gentleman who wants to truly bond a family you would too, but for dating you must respect that the 2 worlds are different. Is this so hard to understand?

When a man is looking for a date his intent is not to marry you, it is to see if you want to get into the running to be his mate and then you can play

out your 1940’s courtship ritual. This is a different age girls and we aren’t going to let you have your cake and eat it too.

The Rewards of Courtship For A Man Nowadays when a man gets with a woman her offerings are a gamble – yet we know this and deal with it.

In the first quote where the woman speaks to her expectations of a man’s role it makes us wonder if she would be willing to play hers in the traditional sense.

Would she: Accept her husband as the final arbiter on all matters of importance in the household?

Forego her career to take care of the house; cook and clean; raise his children, etc.?

If you can say yes to the things outlined above then I think you do deserve a man to court you – just realize that it comes about after the

dating period. You cannot expect men to play it as if you are their one and only when there is so much to lose upfront. Can we be realistic about this?

Good News For Men Having debated this topic so much throughout the years I have found that most women who want a romantic courter are willing to sit back and “let their husbands lead” as part of the tradition. The women who write crazy articles about wanting the man to do his part but then ask for the man to back down in his role when married are an extremely vocal minority. Don’t believe the hype.

This is why we must continue to recognize that it is our prerogative to court a woman we truly feel deserves it, and date the ones who we hold reservations for.

Check out his Men’s Lifestyle blog Hall of the Black Dragon.

53

0OHHHH!!! W

RITA

Dubbed the uk’s version of rihanna, jay-z has a formula when it comes to breaking artists. And the newly aquired “ROC Nation” bombshell is no exception

54

ith her third single how we do (party) hitting the number one spot in just 11 hours the other week, rita ora is at the very top of uk music right now.

Being the protégé of one of the biggest names in rap music, the multimillionaire knew just what he wanted to create with the up and coming star. Dubbed the uk’s version of rihanna, jay-z has a formula when it comes to breaking artists. Collaborating with die-hard producers chase & status, rita ora has already kicked her way to the top the charts with R.I.P & Hot Right Now. With her new album set to sideswipe the charts, there is only one place it is headed.

Talking with Rita was like

NOW FEATURING

RITA ORA

TEXT CARLY WILFORD

catching up with an old friend. Chilling with her ipad watching the spice girls at the closing ceremony of the olympics she looked up with a superstar sparkle in her eye and beaming smile. “My new single was released yesterday and it went to number one in 11 hours which is cool because r.I.P took like a day. I can’t believe it. It’s so cool and definitely a

standard that we have put up for ourselves now. I am so grateful.

I never expect anything to get to number one and it was always my dream. I am so happy.”

So with a tidy record deal under her belt and recognition from the music industry worldwide, just where did it all begin?

“Music way back started when i was six. I joined a choir in my school and i was like mum i wanna sing. My singing teacher told her that i should audition for a theatre school. I went to sylvia young and that was when i learned my craft.

I wasn’t really a musical theatre singer, so it was fun to be one of the few that turned everything into an r&b pop song. I learned a lot and signed a production deal

with a producer. After school i would go into his studio and write.

That fell through when i was 16 and i went to do my a-levels. Between sixteen and eighteen i was singing anywhere i could, in bars or down at the pub. I would song write with a few songwriters i met in my production deal and gradually it got into jay-z’s hands.”

Hold it right there. It “gradually got into jay-z’s hands?” That sounds far too casual. “The music industry is very small. Jay-z and his camp roc nation had just started out then. They had j. Cole and some other artist but they were still looking for more. This

55

DELUX.COM OR IPAD APP FOR MORE WITH RITA ORA

a&r from the uk knew the a&r for roc nation, they had a conversation because i was in talks with her. There were a lot of promises but she never did anything. She spoke about me to jay brown who works with jay-z and he was like “i wanna hear what she sounds like” i sent jay brown my demo, he played them to jay and he wanted to meet me. So i flew out to new york the next day. A few days later i came back home with a record deal.”

Although being hidden away in development, rita has been catapulted to stardom in a very short space of time. The road hasn’t always been plain sailing, which means relying on having her close friends and family at her side. “My sister is always with me, she does my day to day managing and keeps me in check most of the time. I think if you have a tight team around you no

56

one can touch you because you have got that stability. There have been trials and errors and the people that you think you can trust end up not being who you think they are. It is all part of the journey i think. My best friend kyle does my styling. He doesn’t pick what i wear, but he helps me.

I don’t want people to think that someone gives me something to wear and i’ll put it on. We have been best friends forever and we dress the same. We have always

been fashion friends and we have both always loved clothes, so we decided may as well just work together.”

Rita is not only amazingly talented, she is grounded and humble too. The music industry is a tough world and it takes dedication and unstoppable hard work to get to the top. Being noticed by one of the most successful businessmen and rappers of all time is a massive achievement for any artist. “I want people to know that i will never forget that i got signed by such a great man and to have him backing you up automatically boosts your confidence. My idol is beyonce so i feel like she’s backing me up for being jay’s wife. I have been studying b in destiny’s child for years and to have her in my world is incredible. I never forget how lucky i am. I always try and put positive energy into something. I have always envisaged my self to be at the top of my game. I set my standards high, i didn’t know if i was ever going to reach them but i always wanted to sing in front of a sea of people. I used to go to sleep and dream about it. The first

I always try and put positive energy into something. I have always envisaged my self to be at the top of my game time i realised it happening was at wireless when i played the main stage, there were literally seas of people. I got off stage and i started crying because i have never performed in front of that many people before.”

Working with the likes of J. Cole, drake and will.I.Am her new album ‘ora’ is set to storm the charts. Being dubbed as the uk’s version of rhianna if her predecessor’s success is anything to go by

then rita has big things ahead of her.

“It helps being a female in this industry. I feel like it is easier to find something to relate to if you are a female. You have the look and the feminine touch to everything and the variety to sing about. That is why i think people make such a big deal about someone like frank ocean. He sings about things that men don’t usually open up about. I feel like

it’s easier to be a woman. I don’t use looks for anything. I do a few sexy shoots now and again, but so what. Everyone does. My point is, man or woman, we are made to have different roles. My mum is my biggest inspiration, she handled three things at once and they were major. She became a psychiatrist, she beat breast cancer and then she was a mum. Being a mum is a big job” Following in the footsteps of

her idol beyonce, rita joins the list of strong female artists taking on the male dominated music chart.

Her inspirational story goes to show that if you really believe that you can make it, you just never know when a door will fly open that will change your life forever.

57

THE WEEKENDER

a DELUX Guide of where to eat + play + drink

gramophone

THE GROVE The Grove is a growing vibrant business and entertainment district along Manchester between Kingshighway and Vandeventer in St. Louis City. In the Grove you can find a diversity of independently owned restaurants, nightlife, retail, and services. It is also home to the premier nightlife in the area, and is a thriving center for the LGBT, artist, and cycling communities in the St. Louis area.

58

The Gramophone is one of the stalwarts of the Grove’s burgeoning nightclub scene. The venue prides itself on booking a stylistically diverse mix of music, from up and coming hip hop acts to bloghouse DJs and swampy Delta blues. The Gramophone is also the new home of legendary bi-weekly dance party London Calling. With its classy yet laid-back feel, non-smoking policy and great drink selection, the Gramophone is suitable for just about any genre.

EAT+PLAY+socialize | ST. LOUIS' THE GROVE |

St. Louis

SOHO LOUNGE & RESTAURANT | 4229 Manchester Avenue Yep! The Grove’s newest hot spot is bringing you all the hip and sophistication of the posh New York neighborhood while merging the Southern Hospitality STL is known for – SoHo Restaurant + Lounge is the result.

Mixing the elements of a full-service restaurant, with contemporary southern favorites like shrimp and grits, chicken wings, and catfish, along with the excitement and animation of a trendy, chic nightspot, SoHo Restaurant + Lounge promises to provide you with an experience like no other. The multi-level establishment features a bar, a dining area and lounge area on the main level. The second levelalso features a bar and lounge area, and also houses private areas for special events and large parties.

HANDLE BAR | 4147 MANCHESTER | WWW.HANDLEBARSTL.COM Handlebar is an eco-friendly watering hole with a mission: sustainability, increasing bike traffic on the Manchester strip and supporting local indie craft brewers and artisans. With kinetic bike art on the walls and stellar murals by local artists, HandleBar is a unique, fun and smoke-free addition to the well-established block. HandleBar offers Home made Russian Blinchiki and Pelmeni, Gourmet Pizzas for every taste, and vegetarian friendly choices. Be on the lookout for the bike tune up station planned for the back patio, plus a soon-to-be sustainable garden, powered by a nifty stationary bike irrigation system.

Follow us on Instagram: deluxmagazine.

Submit your instagram photos via instagram & we will post you!!! or atleast we’ll try :-) DELUX-MAG.COM | 59 59

EAT+PLAY+socialize | clayton • midtown • downtown • cwe • the grove |

clayton

WHO YOU SHOULD KNOW

Araka – Market-fresh cuisine and bold American flavors. Featuring live music on the patio ALL summer long, check www.araka.com for the lineup. - 314.725.6777

AREA 14 This discreet sushi and cocktail lounge is the dark and mysterious stepsister of Clayton’s Tani Bistro.

Adjacent to Tani, Area 14 is unmarked other than its street number -- 14 South Bemiston -- and an open door leading down a long, black hallway.

Behind the next set of doors, patrons find a sleek, intimate space illuminated by a minimalist geisha motif, mirrors and white leather lounge furniture.

Beer selection and pricing are reasonable, but the emphasis is on $8-$9 crafted cocktails, such as the Plum Saketini.

bar napoli Claytonian favorite for quick power lunch and people watching. Classic Italian with a few yummy twists. - 314.863.5731 MOCHA LATTE | THE QUEEN coastal Exciting menu combination of coastal influences from low country and creole inspired items, to New England favorites, and West Coast specialties. - 314.932.7377

midtown/downtown diablitos cantina Mexican Street Vendor themed restaurant with stunning plates, scrumptious dining, and some of the best cocktails we’ve tasted! - 314.644.4430 Hamburger Mary's Classic Americana, burgers, and FRIED TWINKIES! Features multiple levels and an outdoor patio, fun nightly entertainment, and awesome service. - 314.533.MARY Triumph Vroom vroom! A chic, urbanite dream in Midtown. Great spot for lunch and for nights at the Fox. - 314.446.1801

central west end/ the grove

SUB ZERO Sub Zero Vodka Bar (NOT a martini bar) has developed the most extensive drink list in the St. Louis area. Known for its famous “ice bar,” Sub Zero has become a hot spot for some of Hollywood’s greatest celebrities including Dan Akroyd, George Clooney and Sammy Haggar.

The award winning and nationally recognized establishment has been named DELUX Magazine’s “DELUX DESTINATION 2011” .

308 N EUCLID AVE CENTRAL WEST END 63108 60

The Queen of Promotions. Mocha is The First Lady of St. Louis night scene. From Spoken Word to hosting events of thousands -Mocha is always part of the mix.

She not just one of St. Louis’ social utterflies she also holds it down on the community service side by speaking to young girls about choices. Positive Life changing choices.

S.L.I.M | THE MOGUL Mr. Saint Louis Is His a moniker that fits his winning personality. Slim has taken night life by the throat and hasnt let go. From Free parties featuring 2Chainz at the Loft to Celebrity basketball games--SLIM is definitely one of Saint Louis’ influencial affluent personalities.

What’s Next? Im sure he’ll tell you. @loosecannonslim

chi Japanese sushi sake martini bar & Restaurant with great happy hour and after happy hour drink specials. - 314.367.2209 herbie's vintage 72 Herbie’s Vintage 72 serves up a combination of classics and new American cuisine, incorporating new signature dishes traditional fare. - 314.769.9595 salt High accolades from local foodies, their culinary philosophy is sustainable, fresh, farm-totable and DELICIOUS! A little secret: They have a theatre seating about 30 for your private event.

- 314. 932. 5787

DJ KUT | MR Worldwide The Myth. The Legend. Dj Kut is one of the if not THE premier DJ in St. Louis. As did Lebron, DJ Kut took his talents to NYC --the mecca of hiphop -- added more tricks to his aresenal and now has come back to St. Louis in rare form. Check him out on Facebook to see where he will be this weekend.

EAT+PLAY+socialize

THEWEEKENDER

| THE GROVE | INTRODUCING SOHO RESTAURANT + LOUNGE

meet the SOCIALITES

MARIO “THE GREAT” | ST LOUIS Eat : seafood, sushi p Play: shopping, traveling, creating events and ideas Drink : water and apple martinis

April Bobo | ST LOUIS Eat: J Spains Waffle & Wings Play: The City Ultra Lounge Drink: Ciroc Peach mixed with Moscato You can find me @: The City or J Spains

THE COLISEUM Music Lounge Apromising 9,000-square-foot venue featuring live music and entertainment is just what the doctor ordered. The Coliseum on Washington Avenue offers something for everyone, the Las Vages-esqe music lounge will house some of the most diverse entertainment this city has seen in years. From the plush VIP seating the huge indoor waterfall to the swanky bathrooms.

The Coliseum is more than just a music venue it is a lifestyle changer. 2619 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.531.2864.

Star Ariel | JETSETTER In St. Louis I enjoy brunch from Scape and Duffs, happy hour at Mango,dinner from Coco Loco Brasil or India Rasoi. Play anywhere, often cycle to,thru and jog Forrest park and drink water often but love pineapple upside down cake drinks and top shelf or mango Margaritas.

DELUX-MAG.COM | 61 61

DELUX FOODIE

LONDON’S WING HOUSE

6209 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. St. Louis, MO 63133

One on One with London’s Wing House owner Patrick London AS TOLD TO JEANINE PHOTOGRAPHY ARTHUR SMITH

O

K, I understand you’re the proprietor of London’s Wing House and it’s a family owned business. Can you tell me a little bit about that?

My parents started the company back in 1963. My father had full time job working nights when he opened the business. So my mother would open restaurant during the day time. I can recall stories they told me growing up about how they worked to get if off the ground. As time went along they ended up with three boys I’m the middle child. Having parents as business owners I grew up in the business, as kids we would tag along. When you grow up in the business you get to see everything. It was an easy transition for me going into the restaurant business, being that I grew up in it. In 2006 we had to close the restaurant my parents opened. It was the worst year of my life.

At the time we had two locations and we closed both of them down. My mom got sick. She came to live with me, my wife and kids, so at the time she was my main priority; just trying to nurse her back to health. In the end my father lost his business partner for 40 years. It was tough, a hard time, and the worst year of my LIFE! Are your brothers active in the restaurant?

Actually my brothers are not in the business now.

So when you guys get together do you debate over who’s the better cook? (chuckle) Not really, however I would have to say that when it comes to cooking my younger brother is the better cook. I don’t do a lot of cooking outside of the restaurant, but my brother cooks. What we do in the restaurant is relatively simple the recipes already in place. It’s just a matter of following certain steps. So he’s the better cook.

Can he beat you at wings? (chuckle) You know what, I’ve never been one to brag abut cooking, so I would have to give that to him hands down on that as well. (chuckle) I’ll give him that, but we get in the kitchen and experiment sometime. But the guy who really would get in there, I would have to give that to my father he’s the one that put the recipes together.

Are your sauces made from scratch and how do they stand out from the competition?

We put something’s together that I wouldn’t be able to share with you, because if I did I would have to come and find you.

As far as being unique we got a recipe that’s been around for years. It was in place when I became an adult, and when I came into the business it was already in place. So it was something people were already familiar with and it had already been successful. I’m from the school of if it ain’t broke then don’t try to fix it.

You said that you had more than one locationbut what are your plans for the future do you plan on opening another restaurant or franchising?

Oh, we plan to grow and expand, when we open a new location we want to make sure it’s done right. Base on my experience and some of the problems I saw that we ran into the past. I’m not real eager to grow with the fad. But we are looking at a location as we speak.

What made you decide to reopen the business?

The demand, when I actually got out of the business I was introduced to facebook.

62

Ok, so Social media?

My daughter was in school, and she introduced me to facebook. When I was on facebook, I mean everybody that I friended on facebook. That’s the thing about facebook people that you even forgot existed are reaching out to me was saying; “Hey what’s going on with the business” What do you mean the business is closed, they told me to get your butt back in there and get the store open. People were outraged about it. I really wanted to get back into it on my own terms. The demand was just there.

What is one of your best memories growing up in the business?

This will go back before the business was called London, it was called Carry Out. One of my fondest memories is when I was with my grandmother on her truck. A lot of people don’t know this but the lady that used to sell pig ears and all types of dishes. Me and my older brother used to spend a lot of time on that truck helping her out selling items. That was my first taste of entrepreneurship. Being on that truck with my grandma, just seeing the people come to the truck and walking away with that smile on their face; because they got their favorite item and they were walking away happy.

They got something that they needed and was going to enjoy. I would see the same people every day and my grandmother was selling some of the same stuff my father was right across the street at London Carry Out. That’s probably one of my fondest memories as a kid in the business.

What is your advice to a young entrepreneur?

Stay hungry with it. A lot of people say they just have to understand what it’s going to take. There’s going to be some hard days, and they have to just roll with the punches. It’s a everyday grind but it’s worth it at the end of the day.

When they put a hard day’s work in and you know that everything that you’ve done just be the best that you can be. Just stay focused. Stay in tuned with what’s going on, stay in tuned with social media, and it will be successful.

What legacy would you want to leave to your family?

I want them to be able to benefit and enjoy all of the things that we have now and build on it. I want them to benefit just like I did and have to the chance to build on what I’ve done. So they’ll be able to pass something on to their kids. Keep it going from generation to generation.

63

DELUX

VIBES

FROM LEFT La Myia, Amy Correa, Sterling V., Meagan Good

H.E.L.L.O GIRLS

Actress Meagan Good recently joined an all-girl singing group, the H.E.L.L.O. Girls, with her sister and two other friends... ”Beep Beep” Hello Girls...

M

eagan Good‘s girl group H.E.L.L.O girls, gave Pooch Hall a makeover in their debut video “Beep Beep.” The group, which features her sister Lamyia (Bullet), Amy (Kitty) and Sterling (Goldie) and Meagan Good (Cheeba) travel around town in an ice cream truck, trailed by a nosy and unattractive police officer.

The Hello Girls feel like…”When the Moon and the Stars collide here comes the Sun in a Sparkling Blue Sky”...sorta like

64

a breath of fresh air... except fresher... or how about the Bell Biv Devoe definition; Highly -Electric -Lethal -Lavish-Ohhhh i adore her. And (yes) the world will be enamored with... The Hello Girls.

With musical influences from Mos Def to Nirvana, The Beastie Boys to Madonna you still won’t be able to put your finger or a genre on this eclectic mesh of love Rock tonic that is The Hello Girls. The Name of their group was inspired by the aforementioned song by BBD called “Hello”(Amy Bell’s husband is

Ricky Bell). The Hello Girls are; sisters Meagan & La Myia Good, Sterling Victorian and Amy Correa Bell . These four girlfriends who supported each others acting, music, producing and writing careers simply decided one day to lock arms and take their collective magic to the mic, the studio and hit the stage... together.

With bangin’ hit producer Rob Boldt, another long time friend of Meagan and La Myia, at the helm blending his stellar production with....Sterlings indie hip

hop, Amy’s punk pop, Meagan’s valley rock and LaMyia’s edgy R & B into a complete package; the result while totally organic and out the box edgy is completely non contrived and radio ready at the same time. The girls write their own songs, listen to the lyrics - you won’t know if you should ingest them or channel your own inner rapper/rockstar and sing along with them. it’s a win-win. So on your marks, get set- Rock! and say Hello to The Hello Girls...

FRESH INSPIRATION

YUSEF “If you’re going to try, go all the

way; otherwise don’t even start”…

Wise words from the intro off the September release from YUSEF, Jazz & the Joint Forces. And jazzy it is (mixed with a lil pimp shit – his words)!

The melodies are filled with horns, flutes, and pianos. That sound is prevalent throughout the album.

With lyrics to make you rewind like “Wait, what’d he say?” this DC dweller isn’t creating fast-paced, raunchy club hits for the kids to dance to, rather thoughtprovoking music for your mind. And not that you’ll have to think too hard to catch his point, but like an intriguing movie or television show, you’ll want to talk about this one while

engaging in adult beverages with peers. Grown folks music, for sure.

YUSEF describes his music as “a love poem to life on the streets.”

It’s written to “the fearlessness of generational icons such as Marvin Gaye, Malcolm X, James Brown, Public Enemy, and De La Soul to name a few. A raw glimpse of the past, present, and future of not only trying to just sustain life, but of the journey through the love for life and God that glues it all together.” YUSEF aims to shine his light on some of the roots of jazz music while looking forward to the future of hip-hop and good music in general.

Flip Side, starts with a smooth instrumental introduction. About a minute in, YUSEF tells a story about a love that came out of nowhere.

More than likely inspired by real life interactions, the new love quickly grew old. The flip side hit and had him “mentally drained, spiritually subdued.” In a song that could have had a bitter ending, instead he ends by saying, “We might not be meant but you’re still valued…I’m kinda jealous of your man when ya life gets smooth.”

That’s something all ladies want to hear so we know it was real.

OPEN THOUGHTS Intro text goes here. Eniet latatiis solorep tatempo reptat quiatem.

Inspiration Speaks is a perfect coalescence of the beautiful worlds of art and literature by the not-forprofit organization ArtPlatform.org.

Step inside these pages where heartfelt emotional writing collides with breathtaking art to

produce a captivating world of imagination.

A large portion of all profits will be going to benefit ColaLife; dedicated to helping remote communities in need. So open your heart – then open your mind – and allow inspiration to speak to your soul.

WUU-SAAAA

Recognizing that the spiritual immune system is weakened almost daily by toxic patterns and attitudes that negatively impact our ability to live in a harmonious relationship with God and others, Paprocki offers seven enduring and reliable strategies for achieving spiritual wellness. After identifying practical ways to integrate each of these strategies into daily living, he describes seven persistent dangers to our spiritual well-being and how these dangers manifest themselves in our lives.

65

DON’T MISS NEXT ISSUE!

SUBSCRIBE

NOW

WWW.DELUX-MAG.COM

ONLY $20 YEAR PRINT & $1.99 INTERACTIVE IPAD APP 66

HEALTH + FITNESS

TAPOUT TO FALL FITNESS No more excuses- a few tips to help you survive the holidays Fall is here. Which means your opportunities for outdoor workouts and al fresco activities are on a ticking clock. As soon the cold settles in, motivation to exercise and eat clean go out of the window. To stay motivated before the winter chill try some of these tips: Give a Reason Before the Season- It becomes extremely difficult to put yourself through a worthwhile workout routine without a good motive. Have a goal in mind, the more specific the better, on where you want to be. Whether it’s a dress you want to slip in for a holiday party or last year’s denims you want to button up again set your eyes on a prize.

Start Small- 15 minutes a day can do wonders. Studies show it can add up to 3 years of life expectancy. Keep track of your progress and to it every week.

Eat Clean- Your health is 70% diet and 30% gym. No matter how many hours you spend in the gym if you’re spending more time in a drive thru than the kitchen you’re probably not going to see lasting results. Skip the fad diets.

There’s no substitute for clean eating.

No gym, no problemGetting to the gym is what seems to plague the vast majority. “I don’t have time” or “I’ll go tomorrow” echo on the broken record of excuses.

Doing a Tabata workout or the Pinnacle Fitness “Derrty 30” requires no equipment and burns a ton of calories. Do 30 jumping jacks, 20 squats and 10 pushups a minimum of 3 times. Add a round of each exercise every week.

Need more tips?

Don’t know where to start? Just ask! Email pinnaclestl@gmail.com

DELUX

POM -APOMEGRANATE

Pomegranates have long been hailed as a healthy food we should all be eating more of.

Widely regarded as a superfood, pomegranate juice is packed with antioxidants and is also known to lower blood pressure, guard against heart disease and help fight certain types of cancer.

Amongst the benefits associated with pomegranate juice consumption are: · Bulge-busting.

Pomegranate juice can deflate so-called muffin tops and belly fat, according to a study by Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh, published in the last few weeks in the Journal of Nutritional Science. Volunteers who drank 500ml of juice every day for four weeks had lower levels of plasma NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids), which are linked to the storage of abdominal fat. · Perfect skin. A million research programme by scientists in Spain has discovered that pomegranate extract stimulates type I procollagen synthesis

in the skin, which helps promote skin repair. The team at Probeletebio laboratories, Murcia, is now conducting further clinical trials on the ability on pomegranate extract to restore the skin’s youthful appearance. · Anti-stress. In a separate study, the QMU team reported that pomegranate juice significantly reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol in saliva, while volunteers reported feeling more enthusiastic and less distressed after

having the drink. · Love Potion. The same study also found that a daily glass of juice increases levels of testosterone – which can boost sexual desire – in both men and women. Testosterone can also boost memory and calm nerves. · High Energy. Some brands of pomegranate juice drink now contain a natural fruit sweetener which provides a slow, continuous energy release rather than a short-term energy rush.

words by Daron Moore NASM CPT of Pinnacle St. Louis 67

68

HIP HOZ C

OCA is pleased to announce that the world premiere of hip hOZ, an original COCA production, will kick off the 2012-2013 COCA Family Theatre Series with public performances October 6th and 7th. The one-hour hiphop performance features an ensemble of talented dancers who will perform dazzling, new choreography to a master mix of classic and contemporary music.

This high-energy, family friendly production follows the basic story line of The Wizard of Oz, but

HIP HOZ

DELUX CLASSICS

COCA presents the world-premiere of this original production, which takes audiences on a high energy, hip-hop adventure down the yellow brick road.

offers audience members a brand new twist on the beloved tale. hip hOZ was created by hip-hop sensation Redd Williams and features a cast of children, teens and adults from throughout the St. Louis community. Williams takes on the role of “The Wizzo” while other key roles are performed by Charlie Anderson (Dorothy), Tramon Richards (Scarecrow), Darius Brown (Tin Man) and Alicia “Sunshine” Depry Gbaho (Lion). hip hOZ weekend kicks off the

six-week celebration of COCA’s milestone anniversary. The nation’s fifth largest multidisciplinary arts organization, COCA celebrates 25 years of providing arts experiences to children, teens and adults from its base in University City and from schools and community centers throughout the area. Visit www.cocastl.org/25 for more information about 25th anniversary events.

The performances will take place at Founders’ Theatre at COCA,

524 Trinity Avenue, U. City in the Delmar Loop.

Public performances of the show are on Saturday, October 6th at 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm, and Sunday, October 7th at 1:30pm and 3:30pm. The hip hOZ Family Fundraiser is Friday, October 5th at 6:00 pm. This special Friday night premiere benefits COCA programs, helping the organization begin to pave its Yellow Brick Road for the next 25 years. Information is available at www.cocastl.org.

69

RISE AND GRIND: THE MORNING AFTER BY: SEVEN L. MAXWELL

For a woman, nothing says I Love You like breakfast in bed by the man of her dreams. However, if you aren’t trying to communicate that often misunderstood emotion by preparing breakfast and dazzling her with dinner isn’t an option, brunch is always a sexy selection.

Assuming that you’ve pulled an allnighter; sleeping through breakfast should be expected, and lunch shouldn’t be too far off. Sure, you could head out for brunch, but studies show that a well-prepared meal not only pleases the palate, it also elevates your opportunity for

an encore. She’s already burned off the meal from the night before, and in order for her to maintain maximum stamina she’ll need to nourish that perfectly-stacked frame you delicately dominated.

Bologna and Top Ramen won’t exactly register well—even if presented as soup and sandwich—so skip the bachelor-inspired feast.

Instead, take a shot at preparing this simple brunch recipe. If properly prepared, she just might reward your efforts by flexing her knowledge all around that kitchen just to show her appreciation for a meal she’ll never forget.

PUMPKIN PIE PANCAKES The pumpkin purée and applesauce work together to create tons of moisture and richness. All you need to make my seriously easy apple butter is three ingredients and a little time. The result is an übersweet and delectable spread that’s perfect to entice your girlfriend the morning after. Instructions: 2 cups all-purpose flour 6 tablespoons light brown sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder

2- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Coat the pan with nonstick cooking spray. Make 3 pancakes using 1/3 cup of batter for each, cooking the pancakes until the outer edges firm up and the bottom is golden-brown, about 1 1/2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden-brown, about another 1 1/2 minutes. Transfer the pancakes to a rimmed baking sheet and set aside. Continue cooking the remaining batter, moving the pancakes to the baking sheet once they’re browned (once you run out of space on the baking sheet, stack the pancakes, or for fluffier pancakes, use two baking sheets). Pop the baking sheets in the oven and cook the pancakes for an additional 5 minutes. among. Serve with a schmear of butter, maple syrup and dig in.

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 3/4 cup plain pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) 4 large eggs 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 2/3 cup almond milk Nonstick cooking spray 1- Heat the oven to 350°F. Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spices together in a large bowl. Whisk the pumpkin purée, eggs, applesauce, and milk together in a medium bowl and add to the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula to stir gently until they’re just combined. The batter will be thick.

70

Sexier Tip: Use a clean turkey baster to easily and cleanly transfer the pancake batter from the bowl to the skillet. Sounds silly (‘cause it is!) but it totally works.

71

72