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J’adore

(pronounced Jah-Door)

contents

the media Issue

Features

Cover

image BY: Steven Khan

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74

image BY: Shannon McCollum

photo booth

working the

Thirty Mile Zone 72 74 80 82 84

Marvet Britto: Fire and Desire

With clients like Mariah Carey, super publicist and branding impresario Marvet Britto is becoming just as recognizable as the celebrities she’s served over the years. Read how she does it.

Photo Booth: The First Instalment

Hannibal Matthews. Diwang Valdez. Shannon McCollum. Kat Goduco. Brian Smith. J’Adore pays homage to some of today’s best photographers.

Angela Yee: Much more than a rumor report girl

DJ Angela Yee keeps Sirius’ Shade 45 hot and looks good doing it.

B. Scott: 'Splendifferously Divine’

Entertainment blogger and fashionista B. Scott continues to bake up celebrity news and interviews for his thousands of loyal “Love Muffins.”

Dubelyoo: The Art Bishop

Multimedia artist Dubelyoo brings underground art to the surface and continues his mind-blowing mission to “convert the wack.”

86 88 90 92 94

Sharon Carpenter: BET’s Sure Bet

Originally from Wartford, England, BET’s award winning reporter Sharon Carpenter validates America is the “Land of Opportunity.”

Gyant: Making “Gyant” Steps

Controversial blogger and entertainment reporter Lloyd Thurston “Gyant” Dinwiddie continues to get bigger in the world of show business whether celebrities like it or not.

Frank Ski: ATL’s Radio King

Celebrity radio host and philanthropist Frank Ski delivers on and off the air.

Crystal Howard: ESPN’s Point Guard of PR

When there’s a sports crisis or an event to plan, ESPN calls Crystal Howard to pick up the blitz.

Roland S. Martin: For Your Information

CNN’s Roland S. Martin says he is one of the original multimedia journalists. We believe him.

J’adore

contents

the media Issue

Departments 14

24 image BY: Derek Blanks

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42

Real Life

14 Technology: Are We In Trouble?

15 Facebook Friends With The Wife? Nah. 16 Ransom For Reparations 18 The Naked News 19 When The Beat Stops 20 A Black Girl In An Asian World 22 Black Women, Power and American Hair

life & style

24 Health and Fitness With Dolvet Quince 25 Kettlebells 26 Escapism: Fly Private Class 28 The Dish: The Restaurant Chain Quartet 30 Cold One … 01 32 The Grapevine 33 Escapism: Shira Lazar 34 Suite Spots 36 Inside The Humidor 38 Beauty And Grooming 40 Guilty Pleasures

mODEL CITIZENS 42 Lyndzi Trang 44 Ashika 46 Necole Bitchie 48 Nadia Dawn 50 Casting Couch: Pam Baker

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entertainment

96

HAUTE FASHION

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52 Raheem Devaughn 54 RJD2 56 Yolande Geralds 58 Blacks In Golf 60 Professional Wrestling 62 Jalen Rose 64 Sasha Brookner 66 Somaya Reece

96 Watch This 97 SmellGoods 98 Mr. Bradshaw 100 The Fine Point 104 Inspector French

x-tras

106 Flawless Victory 108 The Tech Side 110 The Top 30 Sports Moments Of The 21st Century's First Decade 113 Autotech For the New Year 114 Hugging The Road 116 On The Reel 118 The Last Page

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J’adore

staff

CEO & PUBLISHER Courtney Francis & Taneish Leslie President Leon Minott Vice President David Gilmore EDITORIAL Executive Editor - Dennis Malcolm Byron ASSOCIATE EDITOR - Tedra Coakley COPY Editor - Andrea Irvin Associate Editor - Lauryn Boone Editorial Director - Jasana Alleyne Deputy Editor - Shawn Jackson Fashion Director - Taneish Leslie Beauty Director - Alex LaMarsh STAFF & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Evita Robinson, D. Kevin McNeir, Laura Turner, Robert Littal, Robert J Mair, Ale Sharpton, Andrea Janise, Erica McRae, Emerald Lavender, Pharoh Martin, Kimberly Walker, Eric Payne, Ronda Racha Penrice, Sia Tiambi Barnes, Frederick Alexander Meade, Ashley Brazzel, L. Raquel Peterson, Angela Oliver, Jonathan Williams, Carly Felton, Loc Da’Borg, Noah Barrett, N. Ali Early ARCHITECtS Creative Directors - Taneish Leslie, Jasana Alleyne & Elese Patterson Executive Assistant -Michol “Nikkie Santoro” Gardner Art Director - Fran Sherman Graphic Designer - Byron Harris Photo Editor - Alex LaMarsh PHOTOGRAPHERS Anne Park, Mark Sacro, Paul Lawson, Milkman, Anthony Amadeo, Ricardo Louis, Dennis Malcolm Byron, Mike Cooke, Mykeon Smith, Earl Randolph, Maicol, Reggie Bates, Kid A, Kenny Sweeney, Derek Blanks, Justin Hyte, Steven Khan, Rhotogenic, Kenneth Townsend, Leticia F., Hannibal Matthews, Paul Lawson, Dave Conteras, Kesler Tran, You Bin, Stephanie Matthews, Shirin Wilkerson, Dan McMahon, Kat Goduco, Diwang Valdez, Shannon McCollum, Brian Smith, Ben Rose PRODUCTION DIRECTORS Taneish Leslie & Alex LaMarsh promotions Elese Patterson, Rohan Sutherland of Genesis Marketing & Promotions (561) 859-7552 Neishon Leslie of Presidential Touch PUBLIC RELATIONS Nakia Hicks Vision Media Management, LLC, (347) 423-2692 JADOREMAG.COM Web Designer - Leah M. Root Webmaster - Digital Images NEWSSTAND SPECIALIST John Blassingame (609)655-3667

J’Adore Magazine and jadoremag.com reserve the right to update and change this disclaimer at any time. The opinions expressed in the editorial, article, and interviews published within this publication and on our website, www.jadoremag.com, are solely the opinions of the writers and do not represent the opinions of the J’Adore Magazine staff. All Web site design, text, graphics, the selection and arrangement thereof, and all software are © 2006 - 2008 J’Adore Magazine. Permission is granted to electronically copy and to print in hard copy portions of jadoremag.com for the sole purpose of information or personal entertainment. Any other use of materials on jadoremag.com, including reproduction for purposes other than those noted above, modification, distribution, or republication without the prior written permission of J’Adore Magazine and jadoremag.com is strictly prohibited.

All other trademarks, product names, and company names or logos cited herein are the property of their respective owners, and any use of their material is hereby gratefully acknowledged. Sources, authors, dates, etc. are specified whenever and wherever possible. J’Adore Magazine makes no claims to any non-original properties and utilizes material whenever courtesy is allowed or implied.

Except as specifically stated on this site, neither J’Adore Magazine, jadoremag.com, nor any of its creators or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this site. By using links provided on jadoremag.com that lead to sites other than the J’Adore Magazine, you agree to hold the Publisher of J’Adore Magazine from any liability resulting from your use of those sites. This is a comprehensive all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, or loss of data. J’Adore Magazine distances itself from content on non-J’Adore Magazine web sites and is not responsible for the content on the sites to which it links.

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Publisher's Letter Hello J'Adorians and a pleasant welcome to all our new readers!

image BY: Derek Blanks makeup: Tierra Burrell Hair: Gena Sullivan Styling: Betrice Benbow

I would like to first and foremost apologize for the delay of this much anticipated Media Issue. I trust that after you have reviewed our presentation, you will agree that it was definitely worth the wait.

It was an honor and an extreme pleasure in being able to work with some of my peers in the industry. From publishers to publicists, newscasters to bloggers, TV to radio, photographers to artists, we all collectively help the world go ‘round with a plethora of information.

J'Adore, which translates to "I adore” or “I love" in French, lived up to its name throughout this issue as we exhibited our deep admiration for many of our fellow hard working pioneers in the world of media.

In staying true and consistent to J'Adore by bringing you “The Best of All Worlds” in one fabulous publication, we take on a different theme in every issue. This Media edition includes: in-depth interviews with the mavens of information; "The Photo Booth," a new series where we feature some of the most influential photographers within the entertainment industry; “The Truth” behind the Somali pirates and what the mainstream doesn’t want you to see; how Naked News reports in the rawest form possible; our steamy “Guilty Pleasures” section giving ladies the guidelines on how to become an "Audiovisual Seductress” for an erotic tech experience; and Tiger Woods–need I say more? Actually, yes I can.

Let’s get out of here for a second thanks to our beloved “Escapism” section. Get the 411 on travel do's and don’ts by expert Shira Lazar; take a trip to Trump’s Taj Mahal, the North Carolina mountains and meet a pampering New York hostess named “Kimberly” in “Suite Spots”; and fly efficiently in first class on a luxury jet with Blue Star's ingenious ShareAJet program. Plus, why not treat ourselves to some fine dining franchises that are consistently good throughout the nation; learn what beers particularly ladies will love by renowned beer writer Ale Sharpton; sip wine in Virginia’s vineyards; and look good during the process using the top skin products in “Beauty & Grooming”? Also, J'Adore’s Xtras stays true in reviewing the headliners in technology, automobiles, games and more, so I am pleased to say this issue is full of interesting, insightful articles and coverage that I am sure you will appreciate.

Last but certainly not least, due to an overwhelming number of features and limited space within our print version, the articles and interviews that didn't make it here will be placed online via our revamped Web site that is now making some serious noise at www.jadoremag.com. Speaking of which, if you notice the mouse icon at the bottom of a number of features in this magazine, we wanted to let you know we definitely stepped our game up in cyberspace!

Once again, I hope you enjoy this issue and our Web site. As you can see, we want to cover the “Best of All Words” any way we can!

God bless J'Adore and you, our cherished readers.

Taneish Leslie Publisher J'Adore Magazine

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on the web

Here is a sneak peek of what J'Adore's Web site, www.jadoremag.com, has for you:

Have you seen J’Adore’s Web site lately? The newly launched www.jadoremag.com site is always bringing the latest in news, entertainment and special exclusive features you can’t find anywhere else. Here is a sneak peek of what we have going on in cyberspace, so log on today!

Escapism: Festivals you can’t miss!

Kita and Monique The stellar public relations duo Kita and Monique get real with J’Adore and hold nothing back when they talk about their reality show in VH1, working with Terrell Owens, being women in the entertainment industry and dealing with each other.

Freeway From working with Jay-Z to breaking down his new album, J’Adore goes backstage in New York with one of the hottest lyricists of the decade, Freeway.

Hip Sips Sean “Diddy” Combs and CîROC flavor things up with their new Red Berry and Coconut vodkas for 2010, and Hip Sips interviews the men behind the new premium rum, Castro.

Books: Burgeoning Comic Book Writer Robert Jeffery II Comic book writer Robert Jeffrey II launches his first project, Daddy’s Little Girl, which is already generating major buzz in the comic book industry. Hear what he has to say about the story, working with Atlanta-based comic giant Terminus Media and being black in the comic biz.

From the Cayman Islands to Montreal, Quebec, J’Adore highlights some of the best music, food, beer and wine festivals we have visited throughout the U.S. and abroad that you can’t miss! Plus, what to do in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Jacksonville, Fla. and other hot spots.

Suite Spots Love is in the air at the awardwinning Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco, plus many more hotels, suites and bed and breakfasts from around the world.

Street Lines Learn how to tame the hundreds of horses in the engines of BMW’s “ultimate driving machines” by taking challenging low- and high-speed driving courses at the amazing $12.5 million, 64,000 squarefoot BMW Performance Driving School located in Spartanburg County, South Carolina.

Plus…

Actress Valeisha Butterfield flips the script; singer Monica deals with reality; Ale Sharpton’s beer dinner reviews; Street Lines’ auto reviews; Guys and Gadgets tech news; WWE’s Ted BiBiase; Outspoken Word’s edgy opinions; Model Citizen photo shoots on video; exclusive event footage; the full versions of this magazine’s features and interviews; the latest news and so much more!

truth real life

RL

technology: are we in trouble? words By: Emerald Lavender

In this evolving instant gratification culture, is being quick leading to being sick in our society?

W

e are living in the age of instant gratification. Text messaging, instant messaging, Blackberrys, Twitter and Facebook are all ways that our generation communicates with each other. However, all of these technological advances have created a culture that is subconsciously being taught that they don’t have to physically socialize with each other or wait for anything.

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In an instant, you can blog your ideas and within seconds, the information is accessible to millions. In seconds, you can post a picture and ruin a reputation. You can play virtual video games with people around the world.

You can purchase a home, a car—even pay your rent at the click of a button.

Liposuction, energy drinks and plastic surgery all make the promise of drastic changes instantaneously. This all amounts to time and money being ill spent by a culture who has bought into the ideology of instant gratification, while the truth is quite the opposite.

Recently, Current Events (a Weekly Reader publication) featured an article, “Caught in the Web: Teen Internet addiction is a growing problem.” It discussed the new illness linked to excessive Internet and technology usage called Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD). The legitimacy of the disorder hasn’t been confirmed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSMMD), however, fuel was added to the debate when Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, Wash. opened its doors for the first addiction recovery program for IAD in the U.S. called reSTART. Psychotherapist and founder of reSTART, Hilarie Cash, says that teen Internet addicts could make up as much as 8 to 10 percent of the entire U.S. teen population. “There are no firm figures, but there seems to be no doubt that their number is growing.”

What are all these advances in technology doing to our culture as a whole?

Will it produce a generation of impatient people who lack proper socialization skills and suffer from social anxiety as a result? Will it produce isolated and withdrawn people who lack the essential skills for living practical lives?

Lives that give the most gratification often take time and effort. Pursuing relationships, climbing the employment ladder, starting your own business and building savings accounts all take time. These things provide security and aid us in creating richer and fuller lives. They make our lives worthwhile because we understand that we invested our time and effort into making them successful or fruitful.

Ultimately, technology doesn’t replace our innate human need to socialize, develop relationships and learn patience. The whole point to life is experiencing it, so with growing dependencies and illnesses like IAD, teens–and adults–may need to adopt this ideology. J

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wife? nah.

facebook friends with the

words By: Eric Payne

Computer Love sometimes ain’t all it’s cracked up to be.

On Facebook, my wife is not my friend. I "unfriended” her about four months ago and never told her. Even when she did discover we were no longer connected, I ignored her request (both verbal and virtual) to become my friend again. Like her, I am sure many of you are shaking your heads, thinking, How trifling is he? My wife indignantly proclaimed that she was indeed my wife and how dare I not be her friend.

Her being my wife is the very reason why I cut our virtual ties.

As the Internet landscape continues to be overrun with social networking platforms, Facebook, in my opinion, is unique in that it allows unrestricted access to your life and the lives of others with whom you connect. This can all be managed if you’re willing to wade through Facebook’s murky security settings and keep in mind employers, teachers and anyone else you might have to answer to can easily find you there. But if you’re not willing to do this and most of your Facebook friends actually are friends, you typically don’t bother at all and your virtual profile is there for any and everyone to dig through.

I primarily use Facebook to promote my blog, Makes Me Wanna Holler (www. makesmewannaholler.com). But when I first signed up for the site, I used it to communicate with people I was already in close contact with. It allowed me to “talk” to them without picking the phone to make a personal phone call at work. Then somehow people from college found me, then high school, then grade school. Then I got caught up with SuperPoke, YouTube videos and everything else that has come together to make this social media platform one of the largest distractions in existence.

My wife joined the network about six months after I did and at first it was cute.

We’d trade sweet nothings, verbal love taps and harmless snaps (something we’re known for and, believe it or not, attracted us to one another) in our statuses. All of this occurred under the same roof and sometimes simultaneously–she’d often be on the desktop in our dining room and on any given day I’d be on my laptop in the living room.

Sadly, it quickly stopped being cute for me once people, a.k.a. “friends,” started adding their two cents to our “lives” via the comments. It was a wake up call that my Internet pillow talk with the wife wasn’t pillow talk at all. It was broadcast news coming straight out of our home. Making matters worse, my wife took sadistic pleasure in repeatedly hacking into my account to change my statuses to dense proclamations such as, “I’m going to be nicer to my wife,” or “I definitely need to start recognizing what a great woman I have and get my act together.”

Practical jokes? Of course. Funny? Sure...between she and I. But when people I used to work with or once sat in a circle and played “Duck Duck Goose” with got involved? Not really.

If these incidents weren’t enough, we actually had some very serious arguments over the tone and insinuation of each other’s statuses on days when we weren’t getting along. Things really got ugly when I questioned the motivation behind certain comments on my wife’s photos from men I didn’t know. As a man and a husband, I believed I was within my rights to at least ask and be a little protective of my wife. But my wife saw my actions as overprotective and insecure, especially since these were friends of hers from grade school and high school.

Finally, it came to me late one night that there is too much out there pulling at the hearts and minds of married couples, mine included, to allow the unexpected nuances of Facebook interactions to be added to the pile. Immediately, I knew what I had to do: I went to my wife’s profile and clicked, “Remove From Friends” without hesitation.

My wife initially thought I was punishing her when in fact I was protecting us, in this instance, from me. When I first wrote about this subject on the lifestyle blog, Black And Married With Kids, I didn’t mention that my wife and I were going through a rough patch in the real world and didn’t need the added stress or confusion that comes when you’re arguing under the same roof and on the Internet.

I cleared the deck, got rid of the distractions and put my focus where it needed to be, on my wife. She and I have since moved on and exist as true friends in the world that truly matters: The real one.

Eric Payne tackles married life and fatherhood as it happens to him at MakesMeWannaHoller.com. You can follow him on Twitter @MakesMeHoller.

Portions of this article first appeared in My Wife Is NOT my Friend (on Facebook) at BlackAndMarriedWithKids.com. J

words By: Ronda Racha Penrice photos Courtesy of Lionsgate

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real life

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rut

ransomfor reparations There is more than meets the media when it comes to Somali pirates.

P

words By: Sia Tiambi Barnes

iracy is profanely romantic–a Scorsese movie or an N.W.A. album–because like most

capitalistic ventures, the recent spate occurring off the coast of Somalia rose out of the murky tides

of noble reasoning and desperation for resources. In fact, numerous reports cite pirates proclaiming they are “gentlemen” and “coastguards” protecting the local economy from illegal fishing and the Gulf of Aden from toxic waste dumping.

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Indeed, the word is that those taken hostage by Somali pirates are well fed on spaghetti and fish (purposely catered to the Western palate) and rarely suffer injury or death. After all, the idea is to collect ransom in exchange for their safe return. An average of $1-$2 million per vessel brought in more than $80 million in 2008 to one of the world’s most impoverished countries.

These pirates are taking ransom as reparation for a population that has been collapsing under the weight of poverty and civil unrest since the Somali government fell in 1991.

According to the United Nations, 73.4 percent of Somalis live in general or extreme poverty and 71 percent are undernourished (exacerbated by drought). One-third of the citizens rely upon food aid. One in nine is internally displaced by civil war.

Within the past decade or so, local fishermen hoping to create order out of chaos began teaming up with warlords and, perhaps, corrupt

government officials to keep at bay foreign trawlers that were illegally fishing in the region, some of which were destroying the coral habitats of lobsters. Seafood is an important business for Somalia. Had the government been in tact, state sanctioned coastguards would have been performing the duty.

Reports also have the fishermen-turned-pirates claiming that foreign vessels have been using the area as a toxic waste dump. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that famously killed more than 300,000 people confirmed this by stirring up the discovery and the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) found higher than normal cases consistent with radiation-related illness. International law precludes dumping in war zones.

At one point, local news site Wardheer News reported that 70 percent of locals “strongly support piracy as a form of national defense.” However, support may be waning. Stories circulating have the pirates taking up brides in lavish weddings, buying fancy cars, drinking, smoking and chewing khat (a flowering shrub used as a stimulant). They have expanded their reach, venturing out further into the waters and, as rumors have it, finding sponsors and intel sources as far away as London and Canada. They recycle the ransom into more sophisticated technology (weapons, faster skiffs) and have attacked private yachts and vessels carrying aid from the World Food Programme. In October 2009, the United States halted delivery of support (the U.S. supplies almost 40 percent of WFP aid). Some local fisherman, reports the BBC, believe the pirates are further damaging the fish trade by scaring off exporter vessels. International jail and death by naval snipers offer other risks for the 20- to 35 year-old sons, brothers and fathers who get seduced into a pirate’s life.

“Remember that 99.8 percent of Somalis do not engage in piracy,” said Robert Haywood, Executive Director/Chief Vision Officer of One Earth Future, a nonprofit that has been mapping solutions for global piracy suppression. ”And with 25 percent of pirate attacks being successful, it is a credit to Somalia’s strong traditional culture that so very few of them do it!”

Certainly, international communities are in agreement. Piracy is but a symptom of the civil unrest Somalia is experiencing. “If there is peace, then all the other problems for the people of Somalia can be solved,” said Peter Smerdon, a spokesperson for WFP. To achieve peace, take a signal from U.S. gang culture: violence begets violence and reform (education and job training) works better than over-policing. J

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nakednews the

Newscasters get down to the bare essentials words by: Shawn Jackson

To see The Naked News on the Web, go to www.nakednews.com to get all of the bare facts.

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Have you ever been bored by the news with its run-of-the-mill reporting, fake smiles and robotic personalities? That’s what the creators of The Naked News felt as well, so they decided to inform everyone (well, mostly men) in a, shall we say, visually appealing way – naked! Each member of The Naked News cast either strips during their segments (the entire daily episodes last 25 minutes) or are already nude from the start. And note, these newscasters are stunning women who would drop jaws fully clothed!

In June 2000, Fernando Pereira and Kirby Stasyna founded The Naked News as a paid subscription Web site.

It eventually came to broadcast television on Canada’s CityTV Toronto on late nights. Since its initial launch, the Web site has gone through many changes including a switch from 100 percent free viewing to a subscription-based model. To date, it has also graduated from a Web-only presence to now having television slots.

The show, which is owned by eGalaxy, is available via pay-per-view in the U.S. and enjoys some notoriety for actually being both informative and fun to watch (aside from the obvious). The show also went international and is viewed on UK channel Playboy One and an Italian edition, Naked News Italia, was launched March 2008. There is also a Japanese version which only permits the anchors to report the news in their underwear due to Japanese broadcasting laws. There have been imitations and parodies, but it seems that nothing tops the original. Check their Web site to see a free mini-broadcast (lasting about 10 minutes) and realize what all the unclothed fuss is about. J

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the power of

When the beat stops Music celebrities and entrepreneurship

Words By: Ashley L. Brazzel

When it comes to business, no one has swagger quite like celebrities in hip-hop. While famous for getting

it done in the studio, the music industry’s talented elite are making moves elsewhere.

These days, stars are leveraging their celebrity as entrepreneurs, ensuring that their bank keeps rolling long after album sales drop off. In addition to the record labels many of these artists own, ventures include franchises, partnerships and various endorsements.

He may not be as present on stage as before, but Sean Combs has a brilliant mind when it comes to business. His many projects have gotten him on the Forbes “Celebrity 100” and Fortune’s “40 Richest People Under 40” list. Sean John, his men, women’s and kids clothing line, has gained popularity worlds over and he added two successful fragrances to the mix: I Am King and Unforgiven.

Then, there’s the Caribbean/soul food-inspired Justin’s restaurant located in Atlanta (the New York location closed in 2007). Other endeavors include Combs’ partnership with Spirits, the company that owns Ciroc Vodka (where he receives a hefty share of the profits for handling its brand management); his 2008 purchase of Enyce from Liz Claiborne; his recent foray into film producing and acting; and of course, his MTV and VH1 reality shows: “Making the Band” and “Who Wants to Work for Diddy.”

Sean “Jay-Z” Carter is in a class all his own. His grown man swag and lyrical genius have propelled him to icon status in the world of music. Yet, it’s his ability to shift into executive mode that gets him noticed on the corporate side. As the former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Records, it could be argued that everything Jay touches turns to gold, or better yet, platinum. After the split with Damon Dash, Jay-Z sold his shares of the label they co-founded, but hung onto their Rocawear clothing line. Eventually, he sold Rocawear for an estimated $204 million, but still maintains his stake, overseeing product development and other aspects. Currently, he’s a minority owner of the New Jersey Nets and coowner of the 40/40 Club, an upscale sports bar in New York and Atlantic City; future chains are planned for Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Singapore. Among his other deals are endorsements with Live Nation and Budweiser Select. He also plans to open the high-end J Hotels in New York’s Chelsea neighborhood.

Paul Wall had the world smiling when he debuted Grills by Paul Wall, a few years back. Inspired by his own flashy teeth, the company crafts custom silver, gold, platinum and diamond-inlaid mouthpieces. Since then, he’s partnered with Travis Barker (Blink-182) and

Skinhead Robb (Transplants) to launch Expensive Taste, a clothing line named after the group they formed in 2005. Initially offering only t-shirts and New Era caps, the line is undergoing transformation to include a broader range of designs.

There’s also been talk about him opening a Wahoo Fish Tacos franchise.

It almost seems pointless to refer to Curtis Jackson as 50 Cent, seeing as how he struck gold with ownership in Vitamin Water. In 2007, Coca-Cola purchased Glacéau, the company that produces his Formula 50 Vitamin Water drink, for a cool $4.1 billion. His stake reportedly earned him $100 million after taxes—this, of course, being in addition to the entire G-Unit brand. Mr. Cent also continues to flex his thespian muscle in film, with a couple of major productions set for 2010.

Although technically not hip-hop, Usher solidified his role in the business arena as part-owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as, the release of his selftitled fragrance collection. He also owned a franchise of the Grape, a wine bistro in Atlanta, before it closed in late 2008.

While the music biz is ripe with countless entrepreneurs, some other notable mentions include: Ludacris, his Atlanta restaurant, Straits, and now the cognac, Conjure; Andre 3000 and his menswear line Benjamin Bixby; Pharrell Williams running both Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream clothing lines; Kanye West and the forthcoming Pastelle Clothing; and Akon’s Konvict Clothing and Aliaune apparel.

Evidently, while the music industry sales are in decline, the entrepreneurial spirit has provided other revenue streams to keep some of the world’s most talented artists in a positive state of mind. J

real life

RL A black girl in an

Asian world J’Adore journalist Evierobbie gives us the real deal on being a black woman in Japan.

words By: Evierobbie

T

he first time I heard the word ‘gaijin,’ I had no idea what it meant. That soon became a familiar feeling, making the move to the Far East. Gaijin is a term that, essentially, I defined just by being present in Japan. In Japanese, it means ‘foreigner.’ You hear it in the streets, on the trains and in the schools, all while you are stared at, talked about, pointed to and run away from (in that order).

Here I am, a black woman (from mixed origins), under the administration of Barack Obama, trying to influence my own section of Asia. A New Yorker, whose alter ego had the audacity of hope in believing I could pull off a year on this side of the world. How ambitious of her.

Some would say I’ve had extensive world traveling experience for being a quarter century old. Yet, for some reason, I still feel as though I’ve only scratched the surface. It’s undeniable that my passport has had more activity than most 25-year-olds. I’ve come to embrace traveling as my personal addiction. It’s my drug and its heightened side effect is a full on personal transformation, sometimes accompanied by anxiety, depression, loneliness and extremely high cell phone bills. This growing fixation has led me to wander the streets of Paris, Amsterdam, Scotland and now Japan.

At 25 years-old, I have lived on three different continents.

Before this year is out, I will have traveled my way through parts of Thailand and a favored quest to India. I’m on a journey–and it’s to find someone.

Through hermit-like travels, I’m more clearly finding me, not Evierobbie, but Evita Robinson.

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truth

Upon arrival at Narita-Tokyo Airport battling the beast known as jet lag, I found myself dazed and confused. What was this place?

Japan. Isn’t it where everyone is short and the toilets talk back to you?

Isn’t there some intersection that puts my dreadfully tourist-ridden Times Square to shame? Where are the robots and flashing lights that are capable of causing seizures? And why does everyone look like the same walking anime character?

In a drunk-like blur, I mentally retraced the steps as to how I got myself here in the first place. I remember landing after my first 13-hour flight, signing off on some contracts saying I would teach English in a city called Niigata, despite my background working for magazines and television in New York City. I vaguely remember subletting my apartment, leaving my cat and more importantly the man I loved back in New York City because of my addiction.

It’s never been more worth it.

I will not trouble you, reader, with all the minute details of the last 10 months. That’s what my diligent hours working on my memoir and blog (evierobbie.blogspot.com) are for. Yet, I write this at about three-fourths of the way through my journey with enough experience to now reflect.

In an effort to gain writing material, observing and teaching are fittingly my two jobs while here. I take pride in knowing I’m probably the first African-American woman with kinky hair, a New York accent, full-figure, tattoos and piercings these children have ever met. Japan is the most homogeneous country, possibly, in modern existence. No matter where I am or what I do, I stand out. I’m their litmus test. As long as my head doesn’t spin 360 degrees in front of them, I think they’ll survive.

Initially, it’s fear that causes them (children and adults alike) to keep their distance. Yet, with time, it morphs into pure curiosity. They want to find out about you. What makes your hair curly? How did you end up in their city? Why are you vegetarian? How do you know how to drive? How do you already know how to use chopsticks? They are sponges.

To them, I’m a rock star. My background is irrelevant. My mistakes are still cool and once you have their love, it’s an unbreakable bond. Being black only adds to the effect.

Frankly, being black in Japan is cool in and of itself. The stirred curiosity is now magnified and your brownie points skyrocket for no apparent reason. I found, early on that being from New York is a serious edge, particularly in the hip-hop community. When I say I am from New York, they hear the history behind the sentence and immediately respond, “Ahh Sugoy!” In translation, “Ahh, how cute!” I am bred from a history they respect, revere and mimic.

I find delight in the most popular American, to my students, being Barack Obama. I fight back tears when introducing myself to every single class, in all seven of my schools, noting that I’m from America, only to have the children respond in one of two ways.

“Obama!” or “Yes We Can!” As a country and a people, I think we sometimes forget that the world is, in fact, watching. Regardless of location, the youth of the world is taking notes. One would think that Obama was elected the President of Japan, with the outbursts in class that are produced simply by saying his name. As an American, it makes me proud. As a black woman, it makes me unstoppable.

Be sure to check out Evierobbie’s WebTV reality travel series, Nomad•ness. J

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real life

Black Women, power and african hair words By: Frederick Alexander Meade

I

n recent times, women of African descent within many industrialized nations have begun to garner significant financial, social and political standings.

This phenomenon is especially found in the United States of America.

With the emergence of such figures as Oprah Winfrey, Tyra Banks and more recently Michelle Obama, African-American women have started to establish themselves within previously male dominated industries and have thus increased their visibility within exclusive social and political circles.

With the status of some women of African descent ascending to exceedingly high societal echelons, rather new dimensions have started to develop in relation to the physical images projected of black women.

Images of prominent African-American women depicting strength, poise and sophistication have cascaded through many of the traditional media outlets as well as the internet. Much of the visuals depicting this relatively small but increasingly influential group not only serve to influence fashion styles but also function to expand the publics’ general sensibilities in terms of what is aesthetically acceptable as well as that which is not.

While a plethora of fashions and hair styles worn by these celebrities, have been continually presented to the world, one feature of the Africanaesthetic has been absent.

African hair and related styles have largely seen an increase in acceptance by women of color around the world. Many women of African descent determined to redefine present day standards of beauty–many

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of which find their origins in Europe–have shed the wearing of perms and straight hair weaves, and have instead, insisted on and embraced what is naturally theirs–African hair.

In the face of this growing trend however, no such movement from those African-American women belonging to what may be considered the “power elite” has surfaced. Oprah Winfrey has not, even on occasion, worn an afro during the taping of her popular talk show.

Tyra Banks has never filmed a season of America’s Next Top Model in which she, week in and out, wore her hair in African locks. Lastly, the dawning of an African hair style by Michelle Obama would be deemed by many–even in the African-American community–as an affront to beauty and subsequently an act unworthy of that of a “First Lady.”

With this pervasive and pathological rejection of this feature of the African aesthetic prevailing from those who are widely considered to be our communities’ role models, one question must be asked. What

are African-American women of influence without African hair?

The answer to this question may yield a startling but valid depiction of what many famous AfricanAmerican women have allowed themselves to become. For a woman of African descent to wear her hair in a manner that is completely foreign to that which is innately intended is to reject in large measure “the self.”

This phenomenon is made exceedingly worse, by virtue of the fact; this group of women has not only rejected to a significant extent themselves but has accepted a standard of beauty which they can never reach. To abuse one’s hair, whether by straightening comb or through the use of chemicals, in a nebulous and futile attempt to obtain and maintain a pseudo image of a European woman, is to yield to a power which the individual feels is greater than she.

An African-American woman who practices such a ritual rooted in self contempt has essentially reduced herself to a mere figment of her own imagination. The prevailing image, in relation to beauty, embedded in such an individual’s mind is that of a woman whom she can never become.

This paradigm serves to perpetually undermine any feelings of equality–and even more still any feelings of superiority–on the part of the mimicker in relation to that which is being mimicked.

Furthermore, this state of affairs merits an especially significant measure of absurdity considering the fact

these African-American women of note perpetually chase an image of a woman who is largely void of the financial, social and political resources they possess.

This behavior on the part of many of these women of high regard, suggests that if it were possible for them to become a woman of another ethnicity they would conceivably surrender all of their fortunes to achieve this state.

As more African-American women enter into the ranks of those for whom resources are seemingly endless, the image of the Black woman will continue to evolve.

If the acceptance of African hair is continually met with avoidance, women of African descent will have once again reduced themselves to that of perpetual “runner up” on the world stage of beauty.

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They will never fully realize their esteem and an almost timeless scar on the face of mother Africa will again grow deeper.

We may only hope these acts of self denial will one day cease; that we may see mother Africa’s beauty once again. J Frederick Alexander Meade is a journalist providing analysis on social and political matters.

His works appear in news magazines and publications around the country. The author may be reached at meade1900@yahoo.com. * Although our Opinions column has some edgy material that does not necessarily represent J’Adore, it always has submissions that are great reads!

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Health Fitness w i t h

Dolvett quince

HIS PASSION FOR FITNESS: Change. I’m in a position where I can change people’s lives. I take them from a state of disbelief to phenomenal belief. Guide them to add years and health to their lives. It’s very humbling to be able to do something like that.

MOTIVATION FOR ME AND MY CHAIR: The motivation was I had a lot of people make excuses that they couldn’t work out or couldn’t make time for it. Another motivation is where we are economically. With the way the country is, to provide a work-out, just 20 bucks for a no excuses work out, that is not only affordable, but effective was a driving force behind my motivation.

A PILL FOR THAT SISTA BOOTY: No! (Laughing.) I don’t think there is a pill that can provide that much strength. It might give you some size, but it won’t give you that feeling of muscle development. The gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the entire body, so if you put the work in, you’ll get the ultimate results.

FIVE MINUTES A DAY: Keep in mind that you should always use your core. You should always use your midsection. Your core helps you with a leg routine. It helps you with an upper body routine—your arms, your back and your shoulders. So, if you only have five minutes, you should try to do something that involves your core with that being your center of gravity.

NEW VIDEOS IN THE WORKS: Yes, I do. There’s going to be a Me and My Chair II. It’s going to be a little more intense and a little more action involved.

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT FITNESS: That they can eat whatever they want as long as they work out, which is a very big misconception. In addition to having a workout where you sweat out your hair, sistas, there is a workout where you can get a good workout and not sweat a lot, but still walk out the gym feeling like you got results.

IMPORTANCE OF DIET AND EXERCISE: You can have the best abs in the world just by eating correctly and not having to do one sit up. So that is how important eating is. If you eat correctly, it raises your metabolism and raises your energy level. You wake up feeling better, you sleep better. But if you eat things that are going to hold you down and bog you down, your sleeping patterns are all thrown off. You feel lethargic and you don’t have as much energy.

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adies, this man has a thing for a hot lookin’ body– he likes to create them. He gave Janet Jackson her fit physique and help chisel Boris Kodjoe’s statuesque figure. It’s time that you get to know the man behind these works of art, Dolvett Quince.

Dolvett’s gorgeous, funny and a health nut. What’s not to love? To top it all off, he created a workout just for me.

Yes, me—that lazy, just can’t make time for the gym, me.

It’s called the Me & My Chair: The No Excuses Workout on DVD and it is changing the lives of thousands throughout the nation and abroad.

I had a chance to talk with Dolvett and learn about this workout and get some of my own personal fitness questions answered. Here’s what he had to say about…

words By: Mz. Limitless

Modeling or fitness: No. I love fitness, I really do. I love what I do. I’m more of a businessman now. I happened to hire 10 trainers and certified nutritionists. I have an entire staff here and I’m building a business, so I look at myself as more of an entrepreneur and businessman even more so than a trainer. My first love is business and my second love is acting. I’ve been acting for a little over 10 years.

RECENT ACTING ROLES: I starred in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. I was signed to a few episodes.

I’ve already completed two. My characters name is Francoise. I’ve done national commercials for Verizon, Vibe Line and KFC. I’m currently auditioning for projects.

ASPIRATIONS TO ACCOMPLISH: I hope to start a non-profit at some point where I can mentor other up-andcoming young black men who have aspirations to be an entrepreneur. It would be like giving them a canvas and showing them ways of organizing business, because it’s something I was never taught directly. I’d like to do motivational speaking. That is the direction that I’m going right now.

Make sure to look out for Dolvett Quince’s Me & My Chair: The No Excuses Workout DVD on the Web and work it out! J

Kettlebells Russia’s secret weapon for a killer body is now yours! words by: L. Raquel Peterson You’ve lifted free weights; used lifting machines; ate lean, green and clean; popped supplements; and downed over a gallon of water daily for that dream of a tight physique.

However, according to the mirror, your muscles look better, but you’re still missing that extra “oomph” needed to transform your body from nice to ripped.

If this sounds like you, then you’re the perfect candidate for kettlebell training. Kettlebells, aka giryas, are Russian imports that have become increasingly popular in the commercial fitness realm, especially for those seeking the extra edge. These cast iron weights resemble cannon balls with handles, and come in a wide variety of sizes and weight from five pounds to more than 106 pounds.

Kettlebells are known as a “gym in your hand” for many reasons. Their relatively compact size (compared to most gym equipment) easily allows you to store them wherever you need to, even in a small studio apartment. Additionally, a single workout can provide the user a phenomenal total-body conditioning experience. Kettlebell users develop power through simple and powerful, yet natural movements that are difficult to achieve with machines, such as hip movement and full body motion. Kettlebells strengthen the core, improve coordination and balance, torch fat and advance muscle strength and endurance. Kettlebells are also used to help patients recover from injury and are so simple to use that anyone can do almost any kettlebell exercise from the moment they begin.

Kettlebell workouts are also highly customizable. You can modify them to be aerobic or anaerobic and high or low impact. Kettlebell exercises can be done anywhere—from inside your house to on the beach, but there are a few essential must-haves and rules for any user:

Staying in the specific range of motion for an exercise improves its effectiveness. Ask your local fitness trainer to assist you in getting the movement down before you do it on your own.

Never drop the kettlebell.

Get a mat and have climber’s chalk on hand.

Kettlebells are heavy and they will damage your floors when you let them hit the ground. That being said, make sure you choose a kettlebell you can handle.

Most women start off with a 10 – 15 pound kettlebell, while most men begin with a kettlebell around 20-25 pounds. Consult a salesperson or your physical trainer to see what they recommend.

and coordination. Regular athletic shoes have too much cushion and are too soft for this workout.

Get medical clearance.

Before you begin this or any workout, get clearance from a certified physician. This allows you to train with confidence.

Spot yourself in a mirror or have someone spot you.

Some exercises require that you get on the floor. A floor mat will be essential in keeping you comfortable (a yoga mat is fine). Climber’s chalk will help you maintain your grip if your palms sweat. J

image by: Anne Park

Wear flat soles or go barefoot.

Working out with Kettlebells barefoot or in flat-soled shoes improves balance

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Private Class

Fly

Blue Star’s ShareAJet Exchange plans to take the airline industry to new levels Words by: Dennis Malcolm Byron

How fly do you want to get when it comes to travel? Coach? Hey, you have to do

what you’ve got to do with today’s unforgiving economy and extra fees that might even charge for the bathroom soon!

Business Class? Never a bad choice for the extra drinks and attention.

First Class? If you‘ve got it, flaunt it! Well, how about a private jet? Don’t reject the idea so quickly.

CEO of Blue Star Jets, Richard Sitomer, has created a new way to travel by air luxuriously and, believe it or not, efficiently. In a one-on-one conversation, J’Adore books a flight with Sitomer to see how Blue Star’s ShareAJet Exchange is taking air travel to new heights.

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p i s m Todd Rome, President of Blue Star Jets

J’A dore: How does ShareAJet Exchange work and what's your plan to revolutionize the travel industry?

Richard Sitomer: A novel program, the ShareAJet Exchange is introducing travelers to flying privately together, helping clients connect with other flyers planning trips to similar destinations and arrange to share flights aboard a specific private aircraft. If a trip to the desired destination is not posted, clients may also upload their own travel plans with the aim of matching that with another traveler. Such a public, socially-interactive marketplace allows for clients to plan trips together, while also testing out various aircraft that may assist in determining a preference. The ShareAJet Exchange is proving ideal for consumers, travel agents, flight departments, jet charter companies and corporations seeking to save costs on business travel, while also opening the private aviation industry to commercial flyers, as it provides a savings of up to 50 percent.

How has ShareAJet been received so far?

The ShareAJet Exchange has been received tremendously. Clients cannot believe that it never existed before and are congratulating me on the program.

How is this different from owning a jet and flying whenever the client wants to?

It is a difference of night and day. Owning a jet is a losing proposition–it is a depreciating asset that loses its value very quickly. Unless you are flying 400-500 hours per year, it doesn’t make financial sense to own a jet. This program is for the client who is a little more flexible; the client who wants the luxury of the private jet experience but also wants to save money.

What types of professions do most of your clients have?

Mostly C-Level executives and business owners.

What are the most popular destinations?

The most popular routes are from New York to Florida, New York to Los Angeles, Los Angeles to Europe in the summertime, New York to Europe in the summertime, London to New York, and New York to ski country including Aspen, Vail and Jackson Hole.

A s we all know, flying safely is always a concern. How do you comfort your clients?

All of our aircraft are subject to FAA Part 135 Rules, which are the public charter rules.

They are more stringent than Part 91, which is ownership. We can also get Argus and Wyvern Aircraft and rated pilots.

Please discuss the amenities and accessibility that future clients should know about.

We offer a wide variety of luxuries. Time is a major factor and a major luxury. Travelers are able to show up 10-15 minutes prior and take off. We offer flowers for the wife, massage treatments, manicure and pedicures and any type of catering desired–from lobster tails to caviar. As far as accessibility, we fly out of 5,000 airports, as opposed to 500 for commercial. As the largest broker of private jets in the United States, we have the experience, the service, and the best price points in the industry. From 2005-2009, we were named the number one private jet company by The Luxury Institute, which was due to our personalized customer service and attention to every detail. J

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For more information on Blue Star Jets and their ShareAJet Exchange program, visit www.bluestarjets.com.

Life & style

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Dish the

the restaurant chain quartet:

words By: Andrea Janise

So what if they have multiple locations throughout the nation.

They are still one of a kind!

Dining out? Etiquette tips Looking for the perfect restaurant to celebrate everyone should know. your anniversary or first date? How about closing that major

business deal with class? Then again, maybe you just want to avoid the run-of-the-mill eateries and find somewhere in the U.S. that serves as an exotic getaway. Food writer Andrea Janise compiles a list of some the most nationally revered restaurants that may have multiple locations, but still ensure J’Adore readers that they provide a unique dining experience, delectable cuisine and the ideal ambiance you are searching for.

Ruth’s Chris Steak house

www.ruthschris.com The perfect first date spot. Ruth’s Chris Steak House definitely gets points for being impressive, yet feasible. You’ll get kudos for making your date feel special without spending an entire paycheck doing it. This upscale steakhouse is known for its cooked-to-perfection cuts of topquality beef served piping hot with sizzling butter (strongly consider the filet or the Ribeye); fresh seafood including whole Maine lobster; seared Ahi tuna and jumbo Gulf shrimp; and family-style sides like the cheesy au gratin potatoes, creamy New Orleans’ style spinach and the delicious toasted pecan crusted sweet potato casserole. To add, there’s a “bible” of fine wines to complement every bite.

With more than 100 locations throughout the U.S and abroad, you’re sure to find a Ruth’s Chris Steak House near you.

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Morton’s, The Steakhouse

www.mortons.com If you’re looking for fine dining at its best, then there’s no doubt that you’ll want to give Morton’s a try. Providing an atmosphere of distinguished class, this award-winning steakhouse is ideal for a business lunch with important clients or celebrating life with someone special. Impeccable service, fine wines and quality product has been their recipe for success for over 30 years. Located in just about every major city, Morton’s raises the bar when it comes to top notch cuisine.

And oh yes, the steaks. They proudly use grain-fed beef, USDA prime aged steaks with mouth-watering cuts, including the filet mignon and the 24-ounce Porterhouse. Want something a bit lighter? Take a look at their seafood menu for fresh catches daily like their Pacific salmon, fresh oysters on the half shell and a popular favorite that will rival anything in Maryland, the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake.

Last, the desserts make the ultimate happy ending, including the Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake and Upside-Down Apple Pie. Note that all items are “al a carte,” which means they are priced and served individually, so if money is no object or that corporate account is limitless, prepare to show off at Morton’s.

The Melting Pot

www.meltingpot.com Now, who was that again that said it’s not polite to play with your food? You didn’t hear it from the folks at The Melting Pot, who encourage you to bring along your culinary playfulness. Fondue is the name of the game; from appetizers to dessert, color-coded skewers of meat, seafood, bread, fruit and vegetables are dipped in personal heating vats holding everything from melted cheese to velvety chocolate for the ultimate fondue experience.

Because of its reasonable prices and ability to spark conversation, The Melting Pot is a great place for a family outing, eating out with friends or taking a date. Providing more than 30 interactive dishes to choose from, you can mix and match appetizers, entrees and desserts to customize the perfect menu. Sure, you’ll have to do a little prep work before indulging in your bite-size masterpiece, but its fun and well worth it–especially after the first bite. And for the adult diners, top off the participatory experience with a cool, chocolaty Yin and Yang Martini made with white chocolate Godiva liqueur and Stoli vanilla vodka. Delish!

So if you want unconventional and unforgettable when it’s time to eat, you want The Melting Pot.

Ra Sushi

www.rasushi.com Prepare to relax, kick back and get ready to have some fun inspired by the Land of the Rising Sun. Ra Sushi balances the ambiance of a chic, hip nightclub with high quality cuisine especially created for sushi lovers to indulge in.

Fusing contemporary cooking trends with Japanese tradition, Ra delivers with delicious selections like the coconut shrimp tempura, lobster spring rolls and salmon teriyaki (ask about the “Bento Box” combinations). Whatever you do, try to have an open mind and try a few things that extend past the traditional sushi menus. Besides sushi rolls, sashimi and nigiri, exotic choices like the oddly popular “Uzura”– raw quail egg served on the half shell–will surely generate that “you only live once” justification. To add, a book listing variations of sake, inventive cocktails like the Bruce Lee-Chee made with Soho Lychee Liquor and cucumbers, and beer imported directly from Japan will certainly make your visit even more unforgettable.

Flaunting the wondrous combination of contemporary décor, extremely fresh cuisine and trendy libations in major cities like Houston, Atlanta and Chicago, Ra Sushi aims to deliver the authentic Far East experience with a touch of American swagger. J

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cold one.. 01

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Wheat brews… especially for the ladies Beer aficionado and journalist Ale Sharpton gets the ladies ready for the warm months when it comes to beer.

Focusing specifically on wheat brews, Ale tells us what brands are ideal for putting smiles on their faces.

To begin with, I am giving any woman a standing ovation who is willing to challenge the stereotype that all beers are bitter, ice cold suds for cheap.

Good for you!

Now, after talking with numerous store clerks, observant bartenders, pub owners and the constantly growing entourage of drinking mates from my own beer tastings, wheat beers are highly recommended to serve as a gateway to more ale appreciation from the ladies and, ultimately, anyone with an open mind. Here’s why:

Wheat Beers Wheat beers are usually brewed from the original quartet of ingredients–hops, water, yeast and malted barley–but another main component is, you guessed it, wheat. Wheat beers were first brewed in Germany and Belgium centuries ago, but a number of U.S. breweries including the Widmer Brothers, Brooklyn Brewery, Magic Hat and Samuel Adams have caught on quite nicely in recent years. Anyway, Germany’s weissbiers and weizens (meaning “white beers”) are typically pale to gold-colored ales that are hazy and have sentiment due to wheat proteins and unfiltered yeast. These are good things because wheat proteins and yeast contribute to a firm head and the signature wheat beer flavors and aromas ranging from banana to bubble gum and even clove to name a few. (There are filtered versions as well, popularly called kristallweizens). Wheat was first outlawed by the German beer purity law called Reinheitsgebot that started in 1516 because it was an invaluable commodity for baking bread, but brewmasters eventually used the prized grain under the provision that the grist was at least 50 percent malted wheat.

Belgians, on the other hand, brew their witbiers differently due to more relaxed restrictions which allowed them to be more adventurous and add ingredients like orange, coriander and spices. These sweet, effervescent brews are traditionally low in alcohol content and their overall refreshing properties boost wheat beer’s popularity during the spring and summer months. So be shamelessly picky from now on and demand a wheat beer that’s citrusy, smooth, perfect when served in the low 50’s Fahrenheit, picturesque and refreshing.

A couple of tips…

• Don’t serve weissbiers or witbiers ice cold or in frosted mugs because this reduces their wondrous sensory properties like taste, appearance and smell.

• There are numerous types of wheat beers–from dark and strong (dunkel), to very fruity and sour (lambics)–so try them all!

What to buy?

Revisiting my original mission which is pleasing the ladies and schooling the rookies, give these wheat beers a whirl:

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Hoegaarden Original White Ale 4.7 percent ABV Said to be the original Belgian-style wheat beer dating back to 1445, the citrusy, crisp Hoegaarden Original White Ale is a big reason why witbier is so hip now. Although beverage giant In-Bev owns them, Hoegaarden’s unadulterated formula, quality and overall history still garners respect in most beer social circles who tend to show more love to the microbreweries. Just say Hoegaarden correctly when you order one–the first syllable is pronounced who-garden, not the Santa laugh or overzealous lover the majority mistakenly says at the beginning of the name (ho).

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words By: Ale Sharpton 5.4 percent ABV Blue Moon may be owned and brewed by the Molson Coors empire, but they have done a pretty good job at maintaining the craft brewing image of this Belgian-style witbier. At 5.4 percent alcohol by volume, it’s unfiltered, high on the citrus scale, very popular and reasonably priced. Many American bars serve it with an orange, although most beer connoisseurs shun the garnish because it reduces the prized head of foam. To pay homage to the actual blue moon that occurs every couple of decades, there is also a limited edition Blue Moon Grand Cru that’s stronger at 8.2 ABV, more carbonated and packaged in a 750-ml bottle. Since it came out on December 1st of ‘09, get one while you still can. www.bluemoonbrewingcompany.com

Blue Moon Belgian White

Leinenkugel’s Berry Weiss 4.7 percent ABV Birthed in Chippewa Falls, Wis., Jacob Leinenkugel’s Berry Weiss should boast the slogan, “How sweet it is!” Justly categorized as a “fruit/vegetable beer,” this weissbier is brewed with honey and juices from blackberries, loganberries and elderberries. Besides its sweetness that rivals Fruity Pebbles, it has a hue of purple and smells like a berry convention.

Although you won’t find this poured in a beer snob’s glass too often, Leinenkugel’s Berry Weiss, along with their Honey Weiss and Sunset Wheat, will surely sweeten the deal when you try to open the minds of naysayers who make “bitter beer faces” at the mention of brew (like my sister). The Berry will surely win ‘em over! www.leinie.com

Shock Top 5.2 percent ABV Anheuser-Busch capitalized on the popularity of their seasonal Belgian-style wheat beer introduced back in 2006 called Spring Heat Spiced Wheat, changed it to Shock Top and made it available year-round. If you want a decent, fairly sweet wheat beer boasting citrus flavor that can be found all over the place, look for the label that has the cartoon orange slice rocking a wheat mohawk. At 5.2 percent abv, it’s a pretty nice cold one brewed by the makers of the “King of Beers” with some pretty catchy artwork to match. www.anheuser-busch.com

Grad-Level

Glassware

Go first class with the right glass To truly enhance any beer-sipping experience, do not sleep on the glassware it is poured in. Believe me, there is a special glass for every type of beer.

That typical frosted mug is not the standard–especially ales.

With that being said (or written, actually), wheat beer is ideally served in either the 500 ml German elongated glasses with an hourglass-like shape, or the stocky, Belgian multi-sided tumbler that are both designed to show off their eye-pleasing orange-amber color and produce a nice foamy head at the top for optimal flavor and aroma retention. Some are even pimped out with a gold rim!

Again, I stress that these are mainstream, reasonably priced wheat beers that are accessible, somewhat on the sweet side and great for parties. However, when you want to graduate to the next level, you will be at the top of the class by sipping Belgium’s flawless St. Bernardus Witbier (www.sintbernardus.be); Germany’s Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier and Erdinger Weissbier; Portland, Maine’s legit Allagash White (www.allagash.com); Bell’s Oberon out of Michigan; and South Hampton Publick House’s potent Double White Ale representing New York’s Suffolk County (www.southamptonpublickhouse.com) to name a few.

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Be sure to visit Jadoremag.com and look up Ale Sharpton for more beers for the ladies, , where he will feature other styles and brands such as Unibroue’s Éphémère, Pete’s Wicked Ale Strawberry Blonde, A-H’s Wild Blue, Dundee’s Honey Brown, Sweetwater Blue and a host of others. Prost!

Twitter.com/alesharpton | alesharpton@gmail.com

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grapevine

Pour On Some Romance: Escape to Virginian Wine Country words By: Kimberly Walker

T

ucked away amidst the landscape of the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville, Virginia offers simplicity, romance and some of the best wines to ever grace your pretty little lips.

The Virginia region houses 149 wineries, which explains why wine enthusiasts, along with California and France, have taken serious notice. Several wineries in particular stand out for their exquisite tastes and further compliments the overall traveler’s charm the “Old Dominion State” proudly flaunts. Cheers!

Blenheim Vineyards

Kluge Estate & Winery

King Family Vineyards

"Wine doesn't have to be so pretentious," remarks Blenheim Vineyards winemaker, Kirsty Harmon, about the spirited industry.

Based in Charlottesville and owned by the family of music superstar Dave Matthews, Blenheim Vineyards combines the sacred traditions of winemaking with contemporary appeal. Upon entering the facility, Harmon’s description is confirmed as you immediately take in the soothing tasting room with a special glass-encased view of the cellar below.

Like any other legendary winemaker, Harmon studied in France, but admits, “My ideas challenge their conceptions.” She boldly uses screw caps instead of corks on Blenheim wines to allow them to maintain their original taste–and Harmon knows a thing or two about taste. Blenheim’s selection of white wines, especially the Chardonnay 2008, is synonymous to a breath of a fresh air. “They’re very crisp and clean, not buttery,” Harmon explains.

Along with her distinct blends, Harmon stands out as well. She says it’s taking a few folks some time to get used to the tomboy winemaking marvel. “It’s an old boy’s network, but they’re getting used to me,” she says with a smile. www.blenheimvineyards.com

Treat yourself to an arsenal of gourmet cheeses in the beautiful country store of the Kluge Estate Winery, also based in Charlottesville. Sitting on 2,000 acres with swan-filled lakes, this quaint atmosphere offers some wonderful blends including several sparkling wines that are perfect for cocktail parties and holidays. Festive hosts will love the bubbly 2004 Rosé which has a beautiful salmon hue with delicious notes of black cherry, raspberry and rose petal.

When asked how Virginia vineyards like Kluge are able to harvest such sweet grapes in a fickle Eastern shore climate, it actually only enhances the flavors of the wines according to CEO William Moses. “The weather is actually good for the grapes and contributes to some of the unique tastes,” he reveals. Moses adds that during tastings, each signature wine is paired with a specific cheese that showcases the flavor, and although this is a practice popularized by our friends across the pond, Moses assures, “We’re not trying to copy France, we’re tying to find the best expressions of our grapes to make good wine.” www.klugeestateonline.com

When a big city lawyer visited a quaint, country town on his honeymoon, he and his wife ditched their urban comforts to create a beloved, family-oriented treasure in Virginia.

"People want the rural experience. Were trying to offer people what we came to Virginia for in 1995, which is a country life," says owner, David King.

Known for their rich, lively blends, Crose (the combination of their Crozet city and Rosé style of wine) the is a popular dry Rosé Merlot with hints of grapefruit, pomegranate and a tart cherry candy finish. It’s perfect for grilling which you can find many families doing on the King Family’s brick patio.

From the end of May until the beginning of September, the locals come and play polo. Kids wander through the barn which houses about 50 horses, and the tasting room employs a stone fireplace for cooler days. King, a distinguished family man, might just be responsible for building big families with the magic of Seven, a port wine fortified with Brandy and aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels for two years. When asked how to pair the zesty drink he simply remarks, “Pair it with a cigar, fire place and a significant other.” www.kingfamilyvineyards.com J

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escapism

shiralazar Travel expert Shira Lazar gives us the 411 on the do’s and Words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron don’ts when traveling.

Television personality, producer, blogger and travel writer Shira Lazar is the living definition of what multi-media. This Montreal, Canadian beauty flaunts her expertise on travel, celebrity news, tech and pop culture on the Web, television, print and radio for NBC, Fox News Channel, CNN and MSNBC to name a few.

Adding J’Adore to her extensive resume, the globetrotting Shira provides our readers with some traveling tips and advice on what to know when traveling. From how to pack lightly to dealing with an annoying passenger sitting next to you, Shira drops the 411.

Bon voyage!

What Shira says about…

Having a fear of flying…

“I always say most of the chances of being in an accident are more probable when you are driving than while flying. You just have to collect the energy of the airline and stewardess. More airlines are putting culture around their brand; it helps people who might have been nervous. Now, passengers are able to go online and it distracts someone who might have been scared.”

Dealing with annoying passengers…

“I usually put my earphones in, I'll start watching a movie or I will go to sleep because I want to end the conversation. Sometimes, I’ll go to the bathroom and come back to start new to give a hint. It’s kind of a like being in bar; you go to the bathroom when a guy is trying to talk to you.”

Packing tips: What is the best way to go light with luggage?

“First, I discovered that jeans and shoes are the heaviest, so if you want to be going light on anything, be light on the jeans and shoes. Carry them in a separate bag such as your carry-on because, obviously, that way they don’t weigh down your check-in luggage. Throw your jeans and shoes in that and keep everything else in your other luggage.”

Must-haves when traveling…

“I go with more of a black scheme. Before, I wore more brown: brown shoes and brown shirt. When matching, I typically go black: its trendy, it’s chic. Two pairs of black shoes, two shirts with a blazer and jeans are standard. Jeans are very essential because you can dress them down and you can wear them on the flight with a nicer shoe and blazer and you're ready for your meeting for a professional situation.”

How about what shoes to bring?

“I'm all for the transitional pieces that I can wear in casual settings and in more upscale settings. You wear with the weather and if it’s a regular kind of trip, you bring flats that can easily come on and off. You don’t want something really hard. Converse for guys are a good way to go or Cole Haan slip-ons shoes. For girls, the UGGs or flat ballerina shoes are cool. Also, a tank top with a blazer or jean jacket and then you are good to go!”

Look for more of what Shira is up to and reporting online at www.shiralazar.com. J

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suite

Life & style

ls

spots

image By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

Where to stay when you want to get away! words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

S

ince you have worked so hard to make it through these unforgiving winter months, why not reward yourself with a calming getaway and come back refreshed?

Here are a few fantastic places to kick back and relax for a temporary escape from all of those mundane responsibilities. Ranging from an intimate retreat in the serene mountains of Bryson City, N.C., to a lavish suite in the gambling headquarters of the East Coast, book a trip and indulge in one of these destinations for a few days. Hey, you deserve it!

Taj Mahal’s Chairman Tower Suite: Trumping the competition Besides the shopping, fantastic restaurants, world famous stage shows and concerts that draw thousands of daily visitors to the constantly bustling Atlantic City, it’s the ritzy casino hotels that certainly contribute to this metropolis’ recognition as the gambler’s paradise of the East Coast. With so many choices, you will not second guess yourself when you choose a suite in the magnificent, contemporary skyscraping Chairman Tower complete with approximately 782 guest rooms including 74 suites that was birthed by Donald J. Trump at his world-famous Trump Taj Mahal in late 2008.

The highly recommended Chairman Tower Suites boast 1,000 luxurious square feet that begin with a foyer leading to a spacious contemporary living and dining combination, complete with a bar and refrigerator, a powder room, furniture made with East Indian Rosewood and a breathtaking floor to ceiling panoramic view of Boardwalk lining the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The bedroom provides a king-sized Simmons Health Smart bed that invites you to relax and contemplate which one of the numerous amenities you want to experience next. pictured on this page: Taj Mahal’s Chairman Tower Suite

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The Kimberly: New York

between May and September, where you can enjoy brunch and take in NY’s splendor cruising on a 75-foot vessel along the East River. Whatever it is, just know that The Kimberly is the suite life. www.kimberlyhotel.com watershed cabins

17-acres of plush property, there is also an entire city to explore as well.

Whatever your decision, the name of this extravagant tower is justified because you truly live the life of a highly successful chairman who deserves nothing but the best. www.trumptaj.com/rooms-suite

The Kimberly: New York’s suite life

watershed cabins

Choose from watching one of the two flat-panel 50” Sony Bravia HDTVs, creating the ideal atmosphere with the Bose radio or iPod docking station, unwinding in the Jacuzzi tub complemented by pampering Bulgari products, or release some stress in your personal rain provided by the large glass walk-in shower before enjoying a seemingly endless roster of Taj Mahal clubbing, dining, gambling and live shows.

Hungry, thirsty or full of energy? Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine from the New Jersey location of Il Mulino, voted #1 by the esteemed travel guide, Zagat’s; get a VIP table at the Ego Bar and Lounge and shimmy with the sexy, talented entertainers, The Angels; or dance the night away at the top-rated Casbah Nightclub. While these are just a few of the numerous attractions stationed on the

New York is certainly the “big city of dreams” with the lights, Broadway shows and nonstop action that goes only one pace– fast. But every once in a while, there is a desire to slow down and kick back in an atmosphere that is relaxing, and in the case of Kimberly Suites, classy and elegant. Based in the always lively east side of Midtown Manhattan where everything from highend shopping and museum cruising to visiting some of the world’s most significant landmarks like the United Nations and the Rockefeller Center are just minutes away. The Kimberly will make sure you will not be far from anything the Big Apple boasts.

After choosing what will best accommodate your stay, whether it is a guestroom, an airy one- and two-bedroom suite, or the newest Kimberly attraction, the Premiere Luxury Suite, take advantage of all of the amenities this award-winning property has to offer. J’Adore chose the one-bedroom suite that provides more than enough pampering with its antique Biedermeierinspired furniture, French doors, feather-bedded king mattresses, Frette linens, balcony, dining area, kitchenette, two flat-screen televisions, high-speed Internet access and a living room stocked with a queen-sized pull-out sofa bed in case others want to experience Kimberly’s opulence.

During your stay, certainly take advantage of your complimentary membership at one of the nine New York Health & Racquet Club locations, Kimberly’s Clefs d’Or Concierge to find out where to go and make your visit that much more effortless, and pulsating party zone next door serving tapas and cocktails throughout the night, the Nikki Beach Midtown.

Be sure to check out the Kimberly Yacht if you plan to visit

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Watershed Cabins: Living the life inside and outside As we all know, Suite Spots isn’t reserved solely for towering hotels in major metropolises, so let’s live in luxury indoors while outdoors. That’s what the Watershed Cabins in Bryson City, N.C. brings with the majestic Smoky Mountains at their various properties’ doorsteps. Just a few hours’ drive from most of the major cities of the Southeast including Atlanta, Knoxville and Charlotte, Watershed is the perfect combination of scenic, yet rugged environs and lung-cleansing air of the outdoors with the hot tubs, surround-sound systems, billiards, flat-screen televisions, kitchens with granite countertops, fireplaces and pillow-top mattresses many of their lavish multi-bedroom cabins encompass.

Although you will not get “cabin fever” with all of these features, make it a priority to discover your strong sense of adventure and choose from a plethora of activities, including everything from mountain biking to whitewater rafting, horseback riding and a number of others to add to your to-do list.

There are also many landmarks you can enjoy–especially if you possess a motorcycle or a performance car made for driving on winding roads.

If that’s the case, give the scenic 11mile stretch of highway called the “Tail of the Dragon” a whirl–all 318 curves of it–as it dissects the picturesque Smoky Mountain National Forest.

Overall, Watershed is the perfect nature escape from the constant horn honking and fast pace of city life. www.watershedcabins.com J

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Be sure to visit jadoremag.com for more coverage of Suite Spots and their surrounding attractions throughout the world!

Life & style

ls

humidor inside the

What you need to know about cigars

T

words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

hey were popularly termed “stogies” decades ago, but to aficionados,

cigars will always be delicate smoking “sticks” of sophistication, complexity and flavor that are produced in only a handful of islands that provide the perfect climate for the finest tobacco. Named after the custom made room or container that replicates the moisture, condi-

tions and temperatures to properly preserve cigars, the first installment of Inside the Humidor features expert Sean Williams, owner of Primer Mundo, who will give us some vital information we need to know regarding the sticks.

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r

. The key for someone new to the scene is to not

buy into any hype.

and bars in your area to find out the nearest location and take a trip.

Tip #2: Make sure the humidor is on point.

When you visit your local brick and mortar shops, pay attention to the humidor. The humidor should be cool with a decent level of humidity. Typically, the temperature will be between 68-72° Fahrenheit and the humidity will be in the same range.

A lot of retail humidors will have a small hygrometer that shows the humidity level, but don’t spend your valuable time trying to hunt it down if you don’t see it right away.

You’ll know if the humidor is too hot or too dry and in some instances overly moist.

Either of these conditions can make for a bad smoking experience.

What do we need to look for when choosing a Tip #3: cigar?

Start on the mild side and move your way up.

Sean Williams: I’m often asked by newcomers to the cigar culture what they should look for in picking out a cigar regarding the wrapper, country of origin, price points, cigar size, etc. The key for someone new to the scene is to not buy into any hype. I can’t tell you how many times cats have told me, ‘All I smoke is Cubans.’ When they say that, I know immediately that they really don’t know much about cigars. That’s like someone who is a wine enthusiast saying that they only drink wines made in California. What about Australia, Argentina, Italy, France or South Africa? They’re putting out some serious grapes. In that same spirit, a true cigar enthusiast appreciates the complexities in tobacco from countries such as Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Brazil, Peru, Africa, Indonesia and others as well. The point to it all is making up your own mind as it relates to what you like.

With that being said, where does someone new to the game get started? Here are some invaluable tips to lead you on your way to smoking bliss:

Tip #1: The first thing to do is find a good cigar shop in your area.

It’s important that you get connected with a good tobacconist that will make some sound suggestions for you based on where your palate is at the time. You’ll also meet other cigar guys (and gals) at your local shop that will make suggestions. Simply do a search on cigar shops

Now when it comes to picking out a cigar, most newcomers want something on the milder side. Typically, your milder cigars will have a wrapper with a lighter color. Bear in mind that this isn’t etched in stone, though. Some will surprise you. There are too many different types of wrappers to list, but a few common ones that you’ll notice include Connecticut Shade, Maduro, Corojo, Rosado, Broadleaf, Cameroon, Sumatra and Criollo, among others.

If you’re grabbing a cigar for the first time, a good starting point for something mild would be to go with a Connecticut Shade or a Sumatra wrapper. Again, this isn’t absolute, but for the most part, cigar makers use the wrappers with mild to medium blends.

Tip #4: Be open-minded.

The most important thing is having a willingness to try different sticks. You’d be surprised at how many terrific cigars there are out there from some of the lesser known cigar makers.

Your palate will develop over time allowing you to branch out and try a strong mix of different cigars and truly gain an appreciation of the artistry involved in creating a great cigar. J

{

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Stay tuned as more cigar connoisseurs contribute to Inside the Humidor and provide their expertise for J’Adore readers. To find out more about Sean williams’s Primer Mundo Cigars, visit www.primermundocigars.com.

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Life & style

ls beauty words by: Alex LaMarsh

> Estée Lauder has done it again with the Estée Lauder Ultimate Red Collection. If you love red lipsticks or glosses, this is the beginning and end of your shopping. There are two glosses and four lipsticks. You can’t go wrong with any of them. They’re available for a limited time at Nordstrom.

< Tarte Cosmetics is a fresh and wildly popular line. They have some great products including the ReCreate natural anti-aging foundation with Wrinkle Rewind technology SPF 15. I've preached to you about how important SPF is and here’s a great example of a fantastic foundation that has SPF in it.

It's smooth, reduces fine lines and lasts all day.

Estée Lauder 'Ultimate Red' Signature Lipstick (available in Cranberry, Blackberry, Gold and Simply Red) - $19.50 Estée Lauder 'Opulent' Shimmer Lip Gloss (available in Cranberry and Gold) - $18

ReCreate natural anti-aging foundation with Wrinkle Rewind technology SPF 15 - $37

www.nordstrom.com

www.tartecosmetics.com > Smashbox Cosmetics is one of the best out there. This spring, they’re offering two great options for cheek color.

O-Glow Intuitive Cheek Color and O-Bronze Intuitive Cheek Bronzer.

They’re both fantastic options for that fresh glowing spring look.

Get yourself over to Smashbox and check them out.

O-Glow Intuitive Cheek Color - $26 O-Bronze Intuitive Cheek Bronzer - $26

www.smashbox.com ^ Are you looking for the ultimate night-onthe-town makeup collection? Well, thanks to Smashbox Cosmetics, look no further.

The After Hours Beauty Collection offers everything you need to beautify at one low price. The collection includes: Lash DNA Mascara in Jet Black, Lip Enhancing Gloss in Velvet Rope, Eye Shadow Quad in VIP, Baked Blush and Loose Shimmer Pot in Candelit, After Hours Cream Eye Liner Palette, DoubleEnded Definer and Precision Liner Brush and Rich Burgundy Zip-Up Clutch After Hours Beauty Collection - $59

www.smashbox.com

^ Ole Henriksen, skin guru to the stars, has come out with another amazing product. Are you on your feet all day? Do you have tired, sore legs after working out? Are looking to improve the texture of your leg skin? Ole Henriksen has the answer. Ole Henriksen Clean Shave Cream and the Muscle Comfort Soak.

Do your body a favor and take care of it.

Ole Henriksen Clean Shave Cream - $28 Muscle Comfort Soak $48

www.sephora.com

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grooming < Having bad hair issues? Phillip Kingsley is the king of hair. No matter what type of hair you have there’s a product for you. Some of my favorite products on the market for hair right now are his shampoos and conditioners. There are different shampoos for different hair types. The one I found most helpful was the Moisture Balancing line. It’s a great price for a quality item.

Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Shampoo - $22 Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Conditioner - $28

www.philipkingsley.com

< Ole Henriksen is the skin guru to the stars but you can bring home some of his fantastic advice for a small price. He has amazing products for women and men. Now that we are coming out of winter and you start to get more sun you really need to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. This great item will keep you matte, totally not shiny while providing you with the protection you need. Sunlight Protection Creme with Chamomile SPF 30 is ideal for any man.

> Let’s face it, women aren’t the only ones worried about their skin and the fine lines you get as you age.

Well, if you’re one of those guys, this is a great product for you. The Ole Henriksen Fresh Star Eye Creme nourishes your eye area with anti-oxidants for younger and fresher looking skin.

Ole Henriksen Fresh Star Eye Creme - $38

www.olehenriksen.com

Ole Henriksen Sunlight Protection Creme with Chamomile SPF30 - $28

www.olehenriksen.com > Let’s talk pores. You notice them, women notice them.

When they’re large everyone notices them. Take the first step towards doing something about it. Get yourself better skin today with Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel by MD Skin Care. It increases the radiance of the skin, aids against that awful ashy look, reduces pore size and takes about two minutes.

MD Skin Care Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel - $75 (30 day supply)

www.mdskincare.com

> Okay guys, so you want to look hot, right? Well you should also think about smelling hot. One of the best colognes out there is Armani's Aqua di Gio. This has always been one of my all time favorite men’s fragrances and most of my girlfriends agree. So before picking her up for your hot date, make sure to pick up some of this scent.

Aqua di Gio - $52.50

www.sephora.com

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Life & style

ls

guilty pleasures the

seductress

audiovisual images By: Faith Ambrose,

While your man is away but easily accessible by Internet, give himSweetFX an erotic media experience that Studio will make him hop the next plane, hail a cab or run over in record time! words By: L. Raquel Peterson Image by: Paul Lawson

Prior to starting your seduction, please be sure to have on a sexy outfit, preferably a new one in a lingerie style he likes, such as French cut lace panties in his favorite color. Put on some stylish accessories – stilettos included – and give yourself a flattering makeup application. If you need ideas for a look, peruse spreads of models in your man’s favorite glamour model magazine, such as J’Adore (ahem!). Don’t be afraid to get a makeover from a professional either.

E-mail or instant message your man to see how his day is going. Start off casual and normal and then begin infusing your responses with sensual vibes. The best way to do this is to really be in the mood prior to contacting him. Really allowing yourself to be aroused will send the right energy of your intentions toward your man and makes your words more believable.

Say things you would want to say if he were really there and you really wanted some, such as, “Baby, I’ve been thinking about making love to you all day” is fine if you normally say things like this to get him in the mood. Likewise, if you usually speak dirtier than that, use that X-rated talk as well. The point here is to spark his interest and subtly hint towards things to come.

Once his interest is piqued and he’s beginning to respond favorably, invite him to a webcam session. Depending on the software, he may or may not be able to hear you speak while your camera is on, but play some sexy music to get you in

the mood. As he admires your sensual appearance, thank him sweetly and casually mention that you’re in a “sensual mood.” Tell him that you really wish he was there with you, but since this is the best he can do, you’ll make the most of it.

At this point, it’s likely your boo is feeling his nature rise and he’s prime for takeover. Begin taking your seduction further by modeling for him. Turn around and bend over in front of the camera so he knows what it looks like from the back and begins imagining himself there. Turn back around and smile sweetly while you begin to sway and move to the music. If you’re really daring, you can take things to the next level by stripping your clothes off, or incorporating more erotic elements, such as pleasuring yourself in front of him. Encourage his responses; if he invites you to watch him do the same to your show or gushes with words of worship, calling you a goddess, then you’re doing your job. Feed off each other’s energy and get wild!

How long should this seduction last? Well, that’s up to you. If he’s a good boy, you can keep it going until he can’t take it anymore and says he’s coming over or until he climaxes. If you really want to tease him – and you know he could really make it over if he really wanted to (if he’s across town or something like that), then you could disconnect from him abruptly and see how long it takes before he beats down your door and ravishes you on sight! J

Model: Zayna

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model citizen

mc

lyndzi

trang

The Art of Reinvention

Lyndzi Trang is one of America’s top models but still finds the necessity to reinvent herself. Here’s why… words by: Erica McRae J’A dore Magazine: How did you get started in the fashion industry?

Lyndzi Trang: Before I was a stylist, I was and am a model for about seven to eight years now. I am currently represented as a model in Los Angeles where I am based at now and other agencies throughout the U.S. My modeling experience allowed me to establish and maintain relationships and connections with photographers, clients, publications and utilize them in my styling career. I barely just began styling this past spring, however, because of my experience with modeling and assisting other industry professionals, it helped me developed my current passion and career at a faster pace, and hence I am very grateful. image by: Dave Contreras Makeup: Anthony Nguyen Zipper Vest (worn backwards): Marie Le Ford Leather Shorts: Marciano

How would you describe your overall fashion sense?

In two words: detailed simplicity. It doesn't take a whole lot to be "fashionable" but it does require an eye. I wear my eye glasses to have 20/20 vision, but fashion in itself is an art form. I take in the client/model as a whole by studying their personality, looks, down to the color of their hair and eyes and I take it in account to my styling. My primary focus is textures, shapes and colors—I like things balanced.

(left) images by: Kesler Tran Makeup: Anthony Nguyen Dress: Wish (Wish.com.au) Ring: Mayzani (Mayzani.com) image by: : Kenny Sweeney

(below) images by: Kesler Tran Makeup: Anthony Nguyen Leather Dress: H&M Jewelry: AA Kinal Fishnet Tights: Betsey Johnson Shoes: Velvet Angels

What does your signature look consists of?

I don't like to say I have a "signature look" but rather that I have a "versatile look," so I can showcase to everyone especially my clients that I can create these looks for them as well. Fashion and style is endless and I want to let the world know that by showing that on myself and in my work. However I must admit that I'm always wearing some kind of outrageous heels, preferably platform.

What are some differences in styling for men and women?

Women's styling—there's a lot to choose from— clothing, jewelry, accessories, etc. So the creativity options [are] much wider. Men's is more limited so it is important to make it different, unique and appeal to both sexes.

Who would be your ideal celebrity client to style for the red carpet?

This question is funny because I was talking about this to my business partner the other day. It's not the idea of having an ideal celebrity client to style, but rather who's the ideal celebrity client I would like to makeover. Many celebrities have had huge makeovers over the past years—for example: Kim Kardashian, Anne Hatheway, Scarlett Johansson, etc—but if I must answer, then my ideal client would be Charlize Theron. Her presence on the red carpet is alluring and as for a celebrity makeover—Taylor Swift. I think she can do better than sequined gowns (no offense to her stylist).

Where do you draw your inspiration to style from?

The Internet, fashion blogs.I also make it a habit to go to a bookstore at the beginning of every month to research the latest fashion publications.

What has been your biggest styling project to date?

My biggest and most tedious project was for a telecommunications company's advertorial calendar.

Each month had designated themes and also required me to do prop styling as well. On top of that

there were eight models and each calendar month How do you plan for an editorial or fashion spread? were group shots of the girls. My assistant and I prepared [more than] 80 outfits and we had shot it all in Describe the process that you undergo to exceed your previous works? one very long day.

I process every editorial methodically. At first I Being that you are fashion forward, what are pre- need to know the basics: time frame, model/client's measurements, the number of looks we are trying to dictions for Spring/Summer 2010?

For Spring/Summer 2010, watch out for neutral achieve and concept/lighting. Then after I receive the tops and dresses with funky shoulder ornaments, necessary information, I go through my rolodex of whether it be padded or bejeweled. Also, linen will clients/designers that would work in that project or also come back in forms of cropped jackets and boy- contact potential new ones. I pride myself in creative friend blazers (a must-have in every woman's closet.) originality and go through a mental vision of what's Washed out denim, mini-skirts and short jumpsuits been done, undone. will make a triumphant return with simple embelWhat is your definition of reinvention? lishments—ruffles, pleats and lace.

My work, Lyndzi Trang & Lyndzi Styles is my tradeNot only are you a noted fashion stylist but you mark and brand, therefore reinvention, especially also have an extensive runway repertoire. Which one in the fashion industry, is crucial for one’s survival.

I define reinvention as redefining your own self. As do you enjoy the most?

Modeling has been my first passion however af- you grow and mature, your visions and views conter styling came out of the closet, I have an extreme tinually change; you learn to become a different and passion for it more now. I plan to retire my model better you. Dreams and opportunities are infinite. portfolio sometime in 2010 and practice and focus on The more you obtain them, the more you are reinventing. J my styling career at 110 percent.

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mc

k i ash

a

model citizen

Multi-dimensional in multi-media words by: L. Raquel Peterson

W

W

hen it comes to working with the media, especially behind the scenes, you have to deal with a lot of bull. For every attempt you make to present yourself and your message truthfully, there are more than twenty crabs in a barrel ready to pull you down. This number multiplies extensively when your messages are resoundingly honest, positive or inspirational.

Such bold negativity can take its toll on someone who isn’t self-driven and strong-minded, but for Ashika, it’s simply another challenge. “It’s my passion to do entertainment,” she bubbly responds. “It’s my life! I want to be a woman of many talents, not a one trick pony.”

The native Californian, 20-something hustler currently lives in Atlanta and juggles modeling, acting, writing, music and business development. This busybody also hosts an online radio show, where everything from sex to politics is widely discussed (religion is the only exception). Determined to break past the barriers set forth in each of these professions, Ashika hopes to help encourage others to neutralize pessimistic stereotypes and attitudes in the media, fighting negativity with positivity.

“The media has a strong effect on everything,” she states. “And it’s not always positive; people tend to harp on the negative. I think the media concentrates on too many of the wrong things when it should be concentrated on more uplifting subjects. For example, the media blew Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize out of proportion. Why nitpick on a man getting an award for doing what he said he was going to do and that’s bringing change to the world?”

Ashika also has a strong opinion on blacks and their role in the media

too. She would desperately like to see black thespians demand better roles in Hollywood, instead of “being complacent” and taking roles mired in violence, sex, poverty and anger. “We need to stop being comfortable and start speaking out and asking for more positive roles to connect to in Hollywood and other forms of entertainment.”

In this inspirational young lady’s mind, we all have to play our position in turning negative perceptions of black people around in the media, superstar or not. We have to educate our youth and each other and stop accepting the images given to us as our own. Most importantly, Ashika believes, we must stop with the “crabs in a barrel” mentality and start uplifting one another in those positive steps and accomplishments we make.

“Caucasians, Asians and Latinos back each other up as a race, but we [black people] don’t stand behind each other. Recently, Spike Lee made negative statements about Tyler Perry’s movies, saying that [Perry] was taking us back and making us look bad, but nobody said anything when [Spike] was making Do the Right Thing. And nobody spoke out when Tropic Thunder came out and there were white actors parodying blackface. We’re our own biggest downfall as far as entertainment and the media. As soon as we stick together, I think that will really help us come together.” J

images by: Derek Blanks Makeup: Tierra Burrell Hair: Gena Sullivan Styling: Betrice Benbow Tan and purple dressBianca Star/bstarenterprise.com One shoulder black dressCharles lynch

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necole bitchie

‘Bitchin’ Ain’t Easy’

T

here are celebrity bloggers and then there is Necole Bitchie. On the home page of her Web site, www.necolebitchie.com, you see the attractive, twenty-something, Atlanta-based Richie sporting her patented specs with outstretched hands around her neck representing the naysayers who want an end to her truly edgy news reporting and up-to-the-minute gossip. But evidently, no one has the power to curb this media starlet’s growth that stems from her frank and entertaining reporting which has garnered respect from all walks of life in the glitz and glamour of show business.

J’Adore recently booked a photo shoot with Ms. Bitchie in Atlanta followed by an exclusive interview disclosing what she does so fabulously. words by: Laura “Mz. Limitless” Turner | images by: Derek Blanks Makeup: Tierra Burrell | Hair: Gena Sullivan | Styling: Betrice Benbow Yellow Dress- Sergio Hudson blk net | Head Piece- JewelsfortheJewel.com Blk Flower Belt- Couture inspirations | Butterfly Ring- allthingzfabulous.com Poka Dot Top- Sergio Hudson | Leather Gloves- jewelsforthejewels.com Gold Bracelet- Couture inspirations

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J’A dore: What made you start NecoleBitchie.com?

Necole Bitchie: I was working in radio in Detroit and I had moved to New York because I really wanted to get a job at a label. But when I went to New York, nothing happened for me. I was there for six months and I couldn’t get a job. I had to go back home to my small country town in Maryland where there’s not a lot of opportunity, especially in entertainment. That’s what I really wanted to work in. I was sending out résumés for jobs, but in the meantime I started my Web site just as a form of therapy. I would do it just to pass the time away. I would post on celebrities and also talk about the things I was going through in my life as well. That’s how it started.

A side from the blog site, what else is going on in Necole Bitchie’s world?

I’m working on expanding the brand. I started the site based on my opinions and everything me. I’m more into expanding Bitchie as a brand. From t-shirts to a certain way you wear your nails–Bitchie Nails; everything from fashion to relationships; everything that interests the Bitchie Chick.

A Bitchie Chick is a woman that is fearless, she’s edgy, she has her own style. A Bitchie Chick doesn’t follow trends, she creates trends. When I think of a Bitchie Chick, I think of a Rihanna, Teyana Taylor or an Amber Rose. Those are who I would consider Bitchie Chicks.

Can you speak on the pictures that surfaced online and sparked the debate on whether or not it was or wasn’t you?

Those were pictures of me. I think a lot of people think I’m fresh out of college or of college age. I have been out of school for a number of years. I’m not in my thirties, but I say that to say this: when I was a freshman in college, people came up to me saying I was pretty and I should take pictures. People give you that type of attention. Especially with me coming from a small town and I didn’t know any better. I was like, Okay, free pictures.

So I took pictures when I was a freshman in college with a number of photographers.

This one in particular pushed me a little further. I was very uncomfortable in the pictures, obviously. Those pictures are at least eight years-old. These photographers take pictures with college girls because they know those are the ones more likely to become something. In that pile of girls, you’re gonna get a Michelle Obama, a Beyoncé or a Necole Bitchie and be able to use those pictures later on. So that’s exactly what happened with that. Someone saw my site getting a little bit of shine and decided to put those pictures out there.

How do you write in a way where you are still reporting on celebrity gossip, but keeping it real at the same time?

One of the comments I see most is about how I can be a gossip blogger and I’m friends with a lot of the celebrities I write on. People don’t like the fact that I’m friends with these people because they feel like I show favoritism or because I don’t write in a tone that they like. They want me to get a little sassier or more hateful, but my biggest goal was to connect to my audience and have them read it as if they’re hearing gossip from their friend. Like if I’m talking to you and I’m like, Girl, I saw Beyoncé the other day…

The fact that things have been written about me gossip-wise that were not true, I know how it feels to have that type of energy put out there. That is why I write the way I do. If it doesn’t sound true or it can’t be validated then I won’t post on it.

A re you content with what you are doing or is there something else you are striving for?

It’s funny because everything I wanted to do with a label I’m doing with my blog. I wanted to promote artists. I’m doing that when I put their music up and I’m saying what I feel about the song. In the New Year, I’m going to start doing more listening parties at the office with my readers. They’ll get to come in and meet the artist and take pictures and listen to the album before it’s released.

I want to run my site and my business the same way as when I was in radio. I want to apply a lot of things the radio stations do in their marketing department to my site. I want to start a company that is focused on branding. I’m really big on branding right now. I think that’s what made my site grow as fast as it did, because I understood the importance of branding. J

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For more information on what’s going on with Necole Bitchie, visit her site online atwww.necolebitchie.com and follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/necolebitchie.

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Words By: Mz. Limitless Images: Steven Khan Images: Kenny Sweeney (Red dress)

This bombshell is definitely an independent lady. Launching her career

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in the industry as a model, Nadia Dawn has stardom in her sights. Whether it be an Oscar for Best Actress or Best Producer in a film, Nadia has goals and she’s not stopping until she achieves them. J’Adore was able to catch up with Nadia to get a glimpse into where she came from and where she’s headed.

Hair/Makeup: Alex LaMarsh Styling: Lyndzi Phan

J’A dore Magazine: You’ve done modeling, hosting and Would you say you like doing one more so than the other?

Nadia Dawn: Well, I do producing. I would definitely say producing. Making an idea come to fruition! When you have a project and you’re able to produce it and find different ideas. I produce a reality show that is America’s Next Top Model meets Survivor called Supermodel Showdown. So, doing that for me was just unbelievable.

It’s cool because I wrote my own series and my own show.

So to me, being a part of an idea and making it happen is a lot more important to me. acting.

What was your big break?

I don’t think I’ve had it yet. I’m at a point where I’m doing good, things are good, but I’m not where I want to be just yet. I want to get to the level Tyler Perry has achieved.

You co-produced and wrote Supermodel Showdown back in 2006. What was that experience like for you and do you have plans to produces any projects in the future?

Yeah. I’m writing a script titled Choice. It’s about the choices we make in life and where we end up. So I used the color yellow as a sign of caution. Like in Sixth Sense when they used red as danger. I wrote it and now I want to produce it. It’s a short film. I want to submit it to the film festivals. Modeling was a stepping stone to what I really want to do. I just want to focus on acting and producing.

How important is spirituality and the positive flow of energy in your life?

It’s huge! If I don’t have faith, then what do I have left if I don’t thing everything is going to work out? That’s what our biggest problem in life is—fear. It’s like we don’t excel because we’re filled with doubt and fear. If you don’t believe that there is a higher power that will take care of you and things won’t work out then what do you have? Fear is the greatest inhibitor of mankind.

What

do you do to get ready for an assignment or

project?

I studied with Aaron Meisner. Then it’s just script reading, reading in between the lines. I try to get out of my head. You have to let go sometimes. I have to stop thinking about what the lines are and get in character and be that person in that moment.

How do you let go and release your stress and tension?

It’s that feeling of fear that you have to eliminate. If you have fear, that is what is going to prohibit you from obtaining your goals. I run the canyons and do stairs. I run up Hollywood Hills to release my stress.

What makes you truly happy with your life?

Just being happy in general. A lot of times we just let negative people and negative voices around us change our state of mind. We just need to remember to be in a happy state of mind regardless. J

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couch

Pam Baker Getting down to reality with Fox Reality Channel’s Pam Baker

words By: L. Laura Turner

If her name does not sound familiar, her work surely will. If you’ve watched Fox Reality Channel, then those promos you’ve seen are the handy work of none other than Pam Baker. The manager of on-air promotions and scheduling for Fox Reality Channel took time out of her demanding schedule handling life’s “realties” to dish the scoop on what’s in and what’s out in the world of television for 2010.

Images by: Steven Kahn hair/Makeup: Alex LaMarsh Styling: Lyndzi Phan

J’A dore Magazine: What was it that got you started in reality television?

Pam Baker: It was actually a fluke! I was working in sports. I knew someone that was starting a new network and I went for the interview and got it. Part of what keeps me here is being able to grow and work on new shows.

Tell those who don’t know what the Fox Reality Channel Reality Awards are about?

What we do is honor the best in reality television. So the categories would be like biggest villain, best docu-series, or OMG moment—things of that nature. I was the talent producer for that show and for the last three years I’ve produced the opening segment for the show.

Where do you see reality TV going in 2010? Where is the new programming headed?

Celeb-reality, the "of love" shows… I think we’re going to veer away from that. It’s going to be smarter, more lifestyle based, more of what you are seeing on Bravo, who I think is the leader in reality TV right now.

A ny ideas to produce your own reality shows anytime soon?

Yes. I have my own production company also, Social Status & PR. I actually am working on a few things and I am a reality consulting since I’ve been doing it for a while and know all things reality. I am developing a gospel project with some other talent from other reality shows. When the reality show is done, talent makes their money from doing appearances and things like that. I want to try to take the best of the best and parlay it into something else so that is something else we’re working on as well.

So you would be the “go to” person if someone has a reality show that they want to get pitched, correct?

Yes I would. I do a lot of development. Everybody in the world has a reality show idea. You want to streamline your idea to what network you could see it on and work from there.

What is the process someone would go through to get a reality show pitched?

You must first have a licensed and bonded agent representing you before you can pitch a show idea to a network. Sometimes they’ll take a known entertainment attorney as your representation. This protects the network and whoever has the idea being pitched. J

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"It’s going to be smarter, more lifestyle based, more of what you are seeing on Bravo, who I think is the leader in reality TV right now."

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RaheemDeVaughn The Gospel of Raheem

words By: Sia Tiambi Barnes

R

aheem DeVaughn, the two-time Grammy

Award-nominated selfproclaimed R&B hippie neosoul rockstar, may most widely be known for his bedroom crooning. However,

after his new album, The Love & War Masterpeace releases this March, many more will be baptized by his genrebreaking lyrics.

“We’re living in Revelation,” declared Raheem DeVaughn before transitioning into a melodious cut from his new album, The Love & War Masterpeace: “There’s a war going on outside that no one is safe from,” he sang.

It’s the usual smoke and flashing lights at the historic 930 Club in Washington, D.C. on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2010. Raheem is dressed in a hoodie tattooed with “I [heart] People” across the chest. Behind him, unusually so, is a movie screen with rotating pictures of Haitians covered in crumbles of a 7.0 earthquake. In the foreground, at stage right, a painter named Picasso is capturing an

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abstract of the scene. Backstage is D.C. Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr.; Hip Hop Caucus President, Reverend Yearwood; and a collective of other DMV [D.C., Maryland, Virginia] artists: Tabi Bonney and the Beat Ya Feet Kingz (of Americas Best Dance Crew fame); the Studio 43 fellas led by Uptown XO; Wale, the headliner of the night. It’s the DMV Helps Haiti benefit concert and all of the proceeds are going to Yele Haiti Foundation, an NGO founded by Haitian-born musician, Wyclef Jean.

“Being one of the OGs in the area, I’m trying to show my support,” Raheem

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said about the show. He’s on his way to pick up his eldest son from school. He realizes, perhaps mostly from his son, the power of his presence. “When I go pick him up and he just like runs to me ... that’s the best part.”

Raheem grew up in Maryland – the son of jazz cellist Abdul Wadud and a mother whose record collection inspired his path – and made a name for himself on the D.C. scene hustling mixtapes of his music on the metro and after performing at such famed spots like Bar Nun. In 2002 he signed with Jive Records and in 2005, released his major label debut, The Love Experience led by the lovingly simple yet melodiously complex singles, “Guess Who Loves You More,” “You,” and “Believe.” The album sold 250,000 units and peaked at No. 46 on the Billboard 200. By the time his

sophomore effort, The Love Behind the Melody, released he caught the attention of The Recording Academy and was granted a Grammy nod for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance with the Chucky Thompson produced single “Woman.”

Despite the major label success, however, Raheem remained rooted in the indie scene that launched him. His shows became indelible, compounded by his vocal ability and the crown and cape he would wear (he called himself the “Underground King”) or his presentation of “Chronkite,” his hooded alias. He continued to drop mixtapes, including the notable 12-track prelude to a masterpiece, last year’s The Art of Noise, and started his own label, 368 Music Group which, “If you pull out your cell phone,” he said, “you’ll notice ‘3’ represents the alphabet ‘D’,” “6” represents “M” and “8,” “V.”

. We’re living in a time of spiritual war...this

image By: Shirin Wilkerson

ain’t no time to be sugarcoating nothing, you know what I’m saying?

Now, on the cusp of his third official studio album and with interest especially piqued in the DMV musical scene, he’s primed to become as legendary as those to whom he’s been compared (Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye). The Love & War Masterpeace is expected in March as a double CD, one part intimate love, one part societal love, and featuring Damien Marley, 368 Music Group’s Phil Ade; and narration by Dr. Cornel West. Yes, Raheem goes deep.

“You better pray to the most high or whoever you praise/Politicians can’t help you, they puppets to slaves,” he sings on the album’s lead single, “Bulletproof”

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featuring Ludacris.

Raheem explained, “We’re living in a time of spiritual war...this ain’t no time to be sugar-coating nothing, you know what I’m saying? Either you’re helping the situation or you’re not.” He added, “On one joint [Dr. West] said, ‘We’re all trying to master that peace internally.’ Part of that is just accepting the most beautiful things in life are the simplest things–the leaves changing colors in autumn, or time with your kids.” J

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rjd2:

colossal When it comes to roles in the music industry, RJD2 proves he does all the above Although the Globetrotters are usually referring to the legendary ballers from Harlem, the multi-talented producer, turntablist, entrepreneur, performer and musician RJD2 (Ramble John "RJ" Krohn) would be the point guard if there was a music version. His frequent flyer miles have

to be setting records by this point, since he has been in demand worldwide for more than a decade with his turntable mastery, infectious beats and impeccable knowledge on how to rock a party.

Even though he was born in Oregon, lived in Columbus, Ohio and currently resides in Philadelphia, RJD2 is never home.

Catching him on the second leg of his whirlwind of a tour promoting his new critically acclaimed album The Colossus off his new label, RJ’s Electrical Connections, RJD2 talks about what he has learned via his vast music career, how the industry has changed and schooling us on albums we must have in our collection.

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Words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron image By: Dan McMahon

J’A dore: To begin with, congratulations on your success.

How did you get the name (forgive us because I know you are asked this a lot)?

RJD2: Thanks! An old friend who sold me my turntables was also an MC. He would call me “RJD2” ‘cause my name is RJ, as a joke. It just stuck and I was too lazy to change it.

How has your music evolved throughout the years?

I’ve been lucky enough to do a number of different things over the years, from make rap records, to remix bands, to make solo records both instrumental and vocal, so I guess it has just bounced from one thing to the next over the years.

What have you learned about working with music labels and what makes owning your own different?

I’ve learned, most importantly, what needs to be done to release an album, so I’ve got a head start in that [because] I’ve been a part of campaigns for seven or eight years now. Owning my own is different now, mostly ‘cause it’s all on my ass to get things done! But I’m happy about that; it’s good so far.

You have produced for many artists. Please name a couple who have blown you away and why?

Hmmm. All of them have given me insights into how other people work, which is invaluable; it’s really hard to pick one. Plus, the behind the scenes aspect of making records is so less glamorous than you would think. It’s a lot of tedious work. I was out in LA at a studio with (Grammynominated) Kenna recently and his ear for harmonies is just so impressive; that’s the first to come to mind.

What was it like working with both Bobbito and El P? It was so cool to me at the time, because I was very much in a “fan” mindstate. I didn’t see myself as qualified to be making records until I had already been doing it for several years!

You

have accomplished so much over the years,

but what is still on your “Things To Do” list?

Vacation! Seriously, I don’t take time off.

I’ve been on one vacation in the last seven years. I’m always working. After this tour, I’m planning on taking several months off and finally chill out....

Talk

Please describe the music scene in Philly?

Honestly? I have no idea. I can tell you a lot about the Philly airport, though. Does that help? I’m so rarely out and about in the “Philly scene.” I really don’t know.

How would you define the word ‘Hustle’? (This is for our “Hustlers” series on our website.)

I always think of my time in HS playing sports when I hear hustle, cause that’s where I heard it the most. I would define it as something that we all do to varying degrees of success, whether we like to admit it or not. If you are sitting on the couch blowing weed, you are hustling, just doing it very poorly. If you are banking hard every month, you are hustling and doing it quite well, apparently.

What is your most memorable set?

Hmmm … Bonnaroo 2005, maybe? Halloween of 2009 was really awesome, too.

Who is that one DJ you would love to meet and why?

Honestly? Prince Paul. He is like my hero.

Give us your favorite rock, rap, instrumental and reggae albums.

Oh man, that is just too hard. I’ll pick some ones that I like, not favorites, okay? I have waaaaaay too many favorites: Dead Sea–Desiderata (rock) MF Doom–Operation Doomsday (rap) Vangelis–Earth (instrumental) King Tubby–Upsets the Upsetters (reggae)

about your newest project

that was just released.

We

hear

you are getting your singing on!

It’s called The Colossusmy solo album. It’s got a lot of great performances from other people and I don’t think I sound too shabby on it either!

Last, tell us candidly the good and the bad regarding today’s music trends and the industry in general?

Autotune is not my cup of tea, but to each his own.

Rappers putting out lots of music all the time is my cup of tea. The retail industry dying off is not my cup of tea. Vinyl showing a resurgence is.

Thanks! J’Adore wishes you much more success!

Thank you! J

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Be sure to visit J’Adore Web site for RJD2’s full list of tour dates for this year at jadoremag.com.

Always on top of the Web game, you can catch RJD2 on: www.twitter.com/rjd2 www.facebook.com/pages/ RJD2/32328322799 www.myspace.com/rjd2 www.pitchperfectpr.com/a_ rjd2.html www.rjselectricalconnections. com

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yolande

geraldsil ‘My way’ Director and producer Yolande Geralds continues to successfully swim against the currents of the mainstream. words by: Angela Oliver images by: Hannibal Matthews

Yolande Geralds has never been a fan of playing by the rules. She

doesn’t like to stay in one place too long and she hates restrictions.

“It’s very hard to keep me contained in a box,” Geralds said. “I’m all about spontaneity.”

Geralds began in casting for such movies as “The Daytrippers” and “Malcolm X.” She also did freelance work for companies including VH1 and MTV, and later spent several years as the VP of Video Production at Atlantic Records.

When she felt her corporate position stifled her creativity, Geralds decided to pursue directing about two years ago. “I wasn’t nervous about leaving,” she said.

“Being at Atlantic was an amazing experience, but my brain wasn’t being used creatively, so I had to move on.”

The Baton Rouge, La. native, whose mother was an educator and whose father worked in law enforcement, said her childhood was straight-laced. And though her free-spirited personality contrasts that of her parents, she said they have always been supportive.

And so has another special person in her family. “My son completely understands the magnitude of what I do,” Geralds said about her 10-yearold son, Phoenix. “He doesn’t care about the artists,” she laughs, He’s

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gotten very interested in the technical side. Sometimes I even let him run the B-camera.” Geralds said it isn’t easy juggling directing, traveling and motherhood. “I guess since I’ve done it for so long, it just works.”

Her resume is sprinkled with commercials and TV spots, but her current focus is music videos. She’s directed several videos from Tracy Chapman’s “Sing for You” to Estelle’s “Pretty Please.” But she’s built special working relationships with two of the most in-demand artists in hip-hop and R&B. “Plies and Trey are very relevant to what I’m doing right now,” Geralds said. “Plies is hard to figure out and Trey is in the midst of challenging himself as an artist.” Geralds is responsible for Trey Songz’ titillating “Invented Sex” video. The in-your-face sensuality of the video is racy, but Geralds said there’s nothing wrong with showcasing sex, as long as it’s in good taste.

“I have a knack for artistic, visual storytelling,” Geralds said. “And I’d never make anything that I didn’t think

lm

everyone could watch. It takes people back to the Calvin Klein ads in the 80s; they were new and different, and I love that.” Directing multiple videos for songs on Trey Songz’ album Ready, released August 2009, has given Geralds room to flap her creative wings.

“There’s so much versatility in his album, so I have the chance to show more than one side of him through the videos,” she said.

“Whatever the audience didn’t get from ‘Invented Sex’ with his body, they’ll definitely get from ‘One Love’ with his heart.”

Geralds has directed nearly a dozen videos for Plies, most recently including “Becky.”

She said Trey Songz trusts her vision, but since Plies has visions of his own, he usually puts up a fight–and she wouldn’t have it any other way. “Plies makes me want to kill him every single time!” Geralds said jokingly. “He pushes me to the limit, but it makes me a

I have a knack for artistic, visual storytelling and I’d never make anything that I didn’t think every one could watch. better director.”

Though music videos are what she’s known for, Geralds has a film background as co-producer of 2005’s documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till, featuring the relatives and close friends of Till, who was beaten and murdered in 1955 in Mississippi for publicly addressing a white woman. “We had no true backing; we did it on our own and sometimes we wanted to give up,” Geralds said of the nine-year project. “But I’m extremely proud of what it has done, it’s been used in schools, people are learning from it.”

With a two-film distribution deal, Geralds still has feature films on her to-do list, planning to release a family film in the first quarter of this year. She and her production partner and friend Shanta Conic, who founded Convey, an online magazine which Geralds is also the CEO of, are currently finishing their first movies. “I’m open for any genre,” she said. “Movies give people the chance to get away. For an hour and a half, they don’t have to think about bills or whatever, they can just enjoy it. I love being able to create that.”

In just two years, Geralds has gained extensive credits and awards to match. And though the industry is risky, she said she never fears losing work. “I can get a job at Starbucks or 7/11 to make money,” she said. “That’s not the issue. I don’t have a wish syndrome; I don’t just think about what I want to do, I say to myself, ‘I’m going to take this leap of faith.’”

During her days at the University of Missouri as a journalism major, Geralds said when professors gave assignments, she’d get average grades. But when they gave her creative freedom, she’d perform to her fullest potential. Since then, she’d decided to do things her way, making sure she knows how each aspect of production works, from lighting and set design to hair and make-up.

“I’m very detailed so I have to know what everyone else’s job entails,” she said. “Then if it’s not how I envision it, I’ll know exactly what to do to fix it.”

Geralds speaks with the conviction she said is necessary for a woman in a male-dominated industry. She doesn’t like comparisons. Instead, she’d rather leave an imprint so distinct that it can’t be confused with anyone else. And with her fearless approach to directing and producing, she may accomplish just that. “Every bit of everything inspires me,” she said. “I can look at a cup and think ‘Oh, I love the texture, I love the color.’ My mind never really shuts down and that’s what sets me apart.” J

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Blacks in Golf: After Tiger, who’s next? words by: D. Kevin McNeir

Despite adversity, Tiger Woods still represents a cavalcade of often forgotten warriors on the golf course.

But what does the future hold regarding black golfers?

Tiger Woods marched to the 18th hole on a steamy Sunday afternoon in Augusta, Ga. on April 13, 1997, holing a record-setting putt to cap a 12-stroke lead over his closest opponent, Tom Kite, to win the Masters.In doing so, he fulfilled the dreams of countless black men and women who, despite their love and prowess for the game, had been unable to overcome their greatest opponent—racism.

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Woods had undoubtedly considered the significance of his date with destiny and the long list of those who preceded him—men like Teddy Rhodes, Jim Thorpe, Jim Dent, Lee Elder, Calvin Peete, John Brooks Dendy, James Black, Charlie Owens, Bill Spiller and even Charlie Sifford, who stood on the sidelines at Augusta, cheering on his “adopted son.” These same men were refused entrance no matter how many times they stormed the doors hoping to prove that they were just as good, if not better than Caucasian golfers who took full advantage of their “white privilege.” And in the days that followed his landmark achievement, Woods would comment on how he felt as he moved closer to his inevitable victory, ushering in a new age in the annals of golf.

“I must admit, the first time I drove down Magnolia Lane, I was not thinking about Bobby Jones or all the Masters stood for,” Woods writes. “I was thinking about all the great African-American players who never got a chance to play there.

That I was able to win there, I believe, brought a little bit of vindication for them.

I know where I’ve been.”

And while his domination in the game of golf has most recently been acknowledged with the Associated Press selecting Woods as the Athlete of the Decade, the unveiling of his numerous acts of infidelity continue to tarnish his previously unblemished stardom. Regardless of his recent troubles, his accomplishments will always be a significant part of particularly African-American history.

The history of the once impenetrable barriers for black golfers that Woods finally overcame is disturbing, but the challenge lives on. What does the future hold?

After Woods breaks records, who will be next?

There are few people in the modern world who are unaware of the phenomenal accomplishments of Woods. His dominance on the Tour and his generosity as a philanthropist are well documented. But with 14 majors in hand, Woods may be under a little pressure as he finds himself close to eclipsing the record-setting 18 major championships currently held by the “Golden Bear,” Jack Nicklaus.

In fact, the pressure continues to mount with his own late 2009 confession of having “let my family down” with “transgressions” and the increasing number of sponsors who are severing their ties due to his alleged extramarital affairs.

“Despite the tsunami of negative publicity that will likely tarnish his image, there’s no denying that Woods’ on-the-course accomplishments set a new

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standard of dominance within his own sport while making golf more accessible to the masses,” wrote Stu Whitney, sports editor of the Sioux Falls (S.D.) Argus Leader.

So what has made Woods so successful while other black golfers have attained only a fraction of his success?

John Jackson, 73, an avid golfer who knew and even played with some of the superstars of yesteryear including Jim Thorpe and Teddy Rhodes, said, “Tiger Woods gained success because he was nurtured from the very start. His father had the financial resources and although he was restricted in certain places because of his color and learned early on that despite being multi-racial, he would always be viewed as black. He was able to rise above it primarily because he was such a skillful golfer. Woods was able to play whenever he wanted and he did. And his father taught him how to win without being distracted.

“There are other young black boys and girls that have the ability but don’t have the resources. Look at the young (white) professionals today,” Jackson continued.

“They were trained by some of the best coaches and were members of teams in colleges where a lot of money was invested in their training and development.

When they graduate, they hit the circuit with sponsors that simply aren’t there for most blacks. Even if the effort is there among our black golfers, most lack the talent of their white counterparts. It’s a long, expensive haul if one hopes to make it to the PGA Tour with apprenticeships, competitions, equipment, coaching and special facilities–something that very few young African Americans have access to.”

A recent Wall Street Journal report noted the following: • At the recreational level, African-American participation was only about half the 14.5 percent rate of whites in 2003.

• Black club pros and teachers in the PGA number only 145 members and apprentices out of about 28,000.

• Tiger Woods is the only active African American on the PGA Tour. The LPGA has none.

Lee Elder, the first African American to play in the Masters Tournament in 1975, was recently said (in WSJ.com) if young African-American golfers are to have the kind of success that whites enjoy, they need more training. “We need some kind of training ground or academy that will support minority golfers who want to take their games to the highest level.”

It took Tiger Woods’ father 20 years to develop a champion. It remains to be seen if there are others like him who will eventually emerge from the shadows to claim their spot in the limelight or whether historians will label Woods as a great champion of color who was unfortunately just an anomaly.

D. Kevin McNeir is an award-winning journalist who has devoted much of his career to writing for the black press including The Atlanta Voice, The Michigan Chronicle, the Grand Rapids Times and N’DIGO Magapaper. He is the senior editor for an online magazine (Centre Stage, www.gbmnews.com) that features stories on theatre, dance and the arts. He is currently working on his first book, “Growing Up Motown” and can be reached at dkmcneir@ hotmail.com. J

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Please visit jadoremag.com for the full article where D. Kevin McNeir recounts the moving and often heartbreaking history of black golfers.

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Part One

professional

wrestling:

Sports Media’s Heavyweight In various facets of mainstream media, professional wrestling is bodyslamming its competition. #1 contender TNA shows us how. words By: Jonathan Williams

All photos courtesy of TNA Wrestling

W

ith its mix of athleticism, elaborate theatrics and vaudeville-like absurdity, professional wrestling has always been about over-the-top personalities and spectacle. But as it has grown in popularity, its presence in

mainstream media has become more and more prominent with wrestlers like Hulk Hogan, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena branching out into TV, film and other creative endeavors.

< Consequences Creed

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Though it reached its peak in the ‘90s with Atlanta-based World Championship Wrestling going head-to-head with Connecticut’s World Wrestling Entertainment in a Monday night ratings war, live attendance battles and pay-per-view buys, wrestling has maintained a strong following with monthly payper-view events and TV shows airing almost every night of the week. The critically-acclaimed 2008 film The Wrestler likely gave this form of sports entertainment a bit of a push, but there’s another reason for wrestling’s resurgence into the pop culture picture and that’s due in large part to the rise of a Nashville-based promotion known as Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.

Co-founded by wrestling veteran Jeff Jarrett in 2002 (not long after WWE’s purchase of WCW in 2001), TNA began with weekly pay-per-view events before debuting its weekly Impact! shows on Spike TV in 2005. Distinguishing itself from WWE by using a six-sided ring and showcasing young daredevil talents like current World Heavyweight Champion A.J. Styles, Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe and Eric Young in the boundary-pushing X Division (comparable to a cruiserweight division, only focusing more on high-risk Japanese, Mexican and European styles rather than weight limits), TNA has gradually expanded its media presence with action figures, trading cards, video games, DVDs and an interactive website that features, among other things, airings of the Xplosion series of bonus matches.

The TNA roster has been bolstered by the acquisition of established talent like Sting, Kurt Angle, Bobby Lashley, Mick Foley and Christy Hemme, while also maintaining an organic growth with its homegrown stars giving indie talents a helping hand into the business. Such was the case with Consequences Creed, who made his TNA debut at the company’s biggest pay-per-view event, Bound for Glory, in 2007 filling in for defending Tag Team Champion and former NFL star Adam “Pacman” Jones.

“I had met [Styles] previously when one of my buddies called me who was also friends with A.J.,” says Creed, who later held tag team gold again with “Black Machismo” Jay Lethal. “He asked me if I wanted to work out with him for a couple of days and I was still fresh in the business. So I’d wrestle with him for four or five hours for three days.

“A year or so later they needed somebody to fill this spot when they did the whole thing with Pacman Jones,” continues Creed. “Due to his contract with the NFL, he couldn’t physically do anything in wrestling, so at Bound for Glory they wanted somebody that could actually wrestle. They wanted a black guy to fill the spot, so they went to A.J. and asked who he thought would be good in this spot and my name

came up. I had been sending my stuff to TNA, so they had my videos and resume and all that stuff. We had talked a little bit, but they were like, ‘If A.J. backs you up, we’ll try you out.’

“So my tryout match was on the biggest pay-perview of the year and I didn’t know I was going to be part of it until two days before. Luckily I did well and they gave me a contract. But that was pretty much a do-or-die situation because I could either do well and get a contract, or suck and everybody sees it and I never get a job anywhere. No one else can say they debuted as a Tag Team Champion.”

TNA has further established itself as a viable media presence by establishing its own World Heavyweight and World Tag Team Championships earlier that same year, after its affiliation with the National Wrestling Alliance expired. TNA also established its first women’s championship that year when Gail Kim became the Knockouts Champion at Bound for Glory (the company debuted Knockouts Tag Team Championship belts last year, further establishing its devotion to quality women’s wrestling).

But TNA made even bigger media leaps on Jan. 4, with a special three-hour edition of Impact!, which aired concurrently with WWE’s flagship Raw, giving WWE direct competition for the first time since WCW’s demise. Anchored by the TNA debut of Hulk Hogan, arguably the biggest name in wrestling history who has transcended the ring to become a pop culture phenomenon, the show also featured surprise appearances by other wrestling legends such as Ric Flair, Jeff Hardy, Scott Hall and the Nasty Boys, with in-ring competition remaining focused on the company’s top homegrown talent.

And despite Hogan’s involvement, it appears that TNA will continue showcasing the talents of TNA originals such as Styles, who has been with the company since its inception.

“When I have a title run like this, basically what they’re saying is, ‘We trust you, A.J. Styles, to get butts in the seats,’” says Styles, who has earned the nickname “Phenomen a l” with his highflying skills and technical in-ring abilities. “It’s a lot of pressure, but I’m looking forward to seeing if I can help put more butts in the seats. And with Hogan being here, it’s just going to happen.” www.tnawrestling.com J

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< AJ Styles

^ Hulk Hogan

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Look for Part 2 of Professional Wrestling: Sports Media's Heavyweight online at jadoremag.com.

Main event Mondays!

On March 8, TNA Impact! started going head-to-head with WWE R aw every Monday. Stay tuned!

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jalen rose

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The life after sports words by: Pharoh Martin

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Life after sports. For many athletes, it’s an inevitable mirror they would rather not face. They'll delay that reality until the day their body betrays them

and forces them into obscurity. What’s next? Jalen Rose knew years before his balky knees did.

“You want to do your best as an athlete, but you’re gonna have to be 100 percent in it physically, mentally and emotionally,” says Rose about his last hurrah on the NBA hardwood in 2007.

“The second that you tell yourself that you’re done then you have to be done.

Half way through my last season, I was feeling like I wanted to play two more years. And towards the end of that season, I just woke up one day like, ‘This might be my last season.’”

A baller is lucky to last 10 seasons in the NBA; Rose squeezed out 13 and is now an NBA analyst for ESPN. As part of Michigan’s heralded Fab Five recruiting class, Rose was highly decorated coming into the league; he was a high school and college All-American, All-Big Ten First Team selection, played in two NCAA championship games and led a talented championship-bound Michigan team in scoring as a freshman.

After skipping his senior year, Rose entered the 1994 NBA Draft. He was selected 13th overall by the Denver Nuggets. Rose went on to have a solid NBA career with six different clubs.

The former NBA Most Improved Player award winner had a career-high 22.1 point per game scoring average in 2002 and helped lead his Indiana Pacers to three consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances and to the 2000 NBA finals.

In college, Rose was a top-10 recruit out of high school who signed to the University of Michigan and, along with Chris Webber, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King and Ray Jackson, formed arguably the most heralded recruiting class in college basketball history. They were dubbed the "Fab Five."

The celebrated five freshmen ballers

were brash. They were noted for bringing inner city swag and long shorts to the hardwood. Although their perceived street image hyped the "hoods," the establishment wasn’t used to their stars looking that way.

“I remember being at the University of Michigan and wearing the baggy shorts,” Rose remembers. “They weren’t baggy because they were down to our ankles, they were baggy because they were longer than Isiah Thomas and John Stockton’s. At first, we were looked at as thugs and hoodlums and killers and drug dealers because of our appearance. I was a player in college in the early 90s that had a tattoo, but I was vilified for it because our society wasn’t ready for that yet.

“I couldn’t be at the University of Michigan playing on national TV with black shoes, black socks, long shorts, a bald head...I’m from Detroit and I have the nerve to jump up in Grant Hill and Christian Laettner’s face?” Rose says.

“As time passed, we have become loved and adored for what we brought to the game. And those that loved us always have, but those who hated had to really come around because they looked in their backyards and in the backseat of their cars and their kids were doing it.”

A year following the loss to a Shaq and Kobe-led Lakers in the Finals, Rose was in a suit covering the NBA Finals in the media. Even while still competing, Rose was developing a full-fledged media career. After the Detroit native retired in 2007, he became an NBA analyst for ESPN and ABC. He also launched a multi-media company called Three Tier Entertainment and licked his acting chops over the summer appearing in two movies, Just Right (2010) and

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Cookout 2 (2010).

As far as the Fab’s other four, Rose says that Ray Jackson is now a coach in his hometown of Austin, Texas.

“Coaching and being with the kids is always something Ray wanted to do, so now he’s into coaching,” Rose shares.

“Jimmy [King] is working in the media now. He’s doing radio for Michigan games amongst other business entities he has going on.”

The crew’s ring leader, Chris Webber, also went into TV. After dealing with a lingering knee injury the five-time NBA all-star became a NBA commentator for TNT and NBA TV. The only Fab Fiver still playing professionally is Juwan Howard. He signed a one-year deal with the Portland Trailblazers in September 2009.

Rose still plays for the love and to stay in shape in Detroit and Los Angeles in pick-up games against NBA talent. He says that working in the media does satisfy that “itch” because it keeps him close to the game. One day he says wants to become a head coach or work in the front office of an NBA team as maybe a general manager.

“I got real lucky,” says the 6’8” former swing man. “I was able to play in the 2000 NBA Finals and for the 2001 Finals I was covering it working for the media. So as I was playing I was developing a media career doing The Best Damn Sports Show, TNT and ABC, and covering fights like Oscar De La Hoya's.

Once I retired in 2007, it was a natural progression to do the multi-media thing fulltime.”

Although he no longer reaches new heights with NBA rims, Rose is undoubtedly at the top of his game in the world of media. J

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sasha

Words By: Laura Turner

brookner Public relations executive Sasha Brookner schools us on what it takes to work with celebrities.

When it comes down to players in the media game, you can’t talk about the movers and the shakers without mentioning Sasha Brookner.

Her boutique public relations firm, Helio, represents some of the finest talent in the industry today. To listen to her speak gives rhyme and reason to the passion behind her hustle. Brookner believes in her talent and it shows in the caliber of excellence she has in getting the job done. Now she gives us a crash course on her guide to success.

How Sasha got started in public relations and launching Helio: I actually fell into PR haphazardly. Initially, I wanted to be a history teacher, but got lead astray. I went from the French Revolution to the MTV Awards within a single year. The segue was abrupt.

The name "Helio" is just the Greek word for sun.

The sun is a star in the center of our galaxy, adorned with a crown (the corona) that has been worshipped by cultures throughout antiquity, whether literally or figuratively. I guess that could be analogous to how our society worships the "stars" of the entertainment industry also placed on thrones. Like the sun, celebrities have become the center of attention. Sometimes they emit light, sometimes they don’t. Our job is to make sure our clients have room to shine.

Choosing clients: We’ve worked with a lot of independent artists.

I actually have a predilection for grassroots campaigns because they involve more imagination.

It’s kind of just random sometimesI worked with Goapele, Ledisi and Martin Luther because they were from my hometown. I worked with Katt Williams because he made me laugh on MTV’s Wild n’ Out. I was introduced to KRS One through a friend [and] we ended up talking about politics. Honestly, I don’t even think he cared about PR but he wanted someone to talk Aristotle with. I worked with Tameka Foster Raymond because I loved Lauryn Hill’s vintage haute couture look in the late 90s and wanted to meet the person responsible for it. I worked with Painter Keba Konte because I was enthralled by his artistry. I worked with N’Dambi because I loved her

I’m witnessing less of the latter. Entertainment has become commodity art. Musicians don’t go into the studio exclusively thinking about self-expression, they go in there contemplating what’s going to get them on the radio, keep them relevant and paid. I wish there could be more of a balance. I make this point just to say my job has become somewhat more disheartening. Like I loved how Mos Def did this last album The Ecstatic and did it the way he wanted, not worrying about whether it would sell. Granted he’s making a living starring in blockbuster films and doesn’t need to trip off album royalties, but it makes the music more honest.

Key roles you play:

solo on Erykah Badu’s Live Album. I worked with some of my West African dance teachers from the national ballets of Guinea and Senegal. I worked with Joi because she’s one of my favorite female vocalists, but I am not sure why she hired me. I remember initially calling her home phone to introduce myself and she so wasn’t trying to hear me. I worked with producers Jazze Pha and Drumma Boy because they were fun to sit in the studio with. I worked with celeb fitness trainer Mark Jenkins because he offered me a free workout. I worked with rap duo U-N-I because their manager lived in my building. There’s not really one formula for my connection with clients. Either I’m originally a fan of their work or become so after an introduction.

Celebrity misconceptions about PR firms: That we’re miracle workers! That they should get the cover of Rolling Stone after the release of their first independent mixtape! No, for the most part, our artists are cool. More misconceptions come from editors and their perception of publicists.That dynamic is quite interesting.

How industry changes are affecting the PR business: The music industry is not as viable as it used to be from a monetary standpoint. So now, even more so, a lot of artists I want to work with have gone from having small budgets to no budgets. From an artistic standpoint, obviously you’re always going to have some gravediggers and some artists still injecting sustenance into the culture. However, lately

It really depends on the situation and client.

Sometimes we do damage control, sometimes we’re promoting a project, sharing stories with the world, dealing with critics, warding off gossip writers, setting up film junkets or just shaking our head at the paparazzi like, ‘How do you get to be how you are?’

But overall, it’s analyzing, protecting and supporting an artist’s career trajectory in the media.

Spiritual strength and business: You know I’m an existentialist, meaning I think most of life is incidental. I don’t subscribe to fate, buttons being pushed, only certain people being blessed, etc. If I fail or succeed at something, there doesn’t always have to be a divine reason behind it per se. I take strength from the good people in my life and those I meet along my journey. I’m always open to being inspired and that inspiration is constant. I don’t necessarily think what I do in this life is so contributory to our world or that a publicist will go down in history books next to women in the feminist suffrage movement, but I enjoy working with writers. I enjoy working with artists. I enjoy merging the two to promote art. Whether one decides to go to law school or become a quantum physicist, the key element, which I guess could be deemed a type of spirituality, would have to be enjoyment.

What it takes to be successful in 2010: Nowadays, boutique PR firms are popping up like Starbucks. At least with like an esthetician, you have to get a credential from beauty school. I remember Katt used to say he wanted to enlist referees to throw out all the wack comedians hurting the game. It’s a lot of competition, but on the same token: if you’re good at what you do, link with the right people, create longevity with clients and media, you can ultimately make it your success story. J

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Somaya Reece

La Latina Bella Words By: Laura Turner Images by: Steven Khan

S

Hair/Makeup: Alex LaMarsh Styling: Lyndzi Phan

omaya Reece is not your average woman. Or is she? About 99.9 percent of the world would think that a gorgeous actress, model and singer with more than a 30 million views and 865,000 friends on MySpace alone would consider herself extraordinary. To add, she is a gorgeous Salvadorian vixen sporting draw-dropping 40-28-46 dimensions and named the Hottest Latina in Music by Maxim en Español, worked alongside Hollywood’s elite and recorded with a few of the world’s top producers for her recently released album Tramp on Universal/INGrooves.

Regardless, Somaya emphasizes that she is simply blessed but will always remember where she came from.

With only a garage as a home for a good part of her childhood, Somaya was born and raised in the constantly trying South Central Los Angeles but always found a way to persevere. She has survived flying bullets with her name on them and dropped out of high school, yet earned her GED. This eventually led to a successful three-pronged career as a singer, model and actress, so she is no stranger to handling life’s obstacles, staying humble and keeping a level head while she experiences her mushrooming fame.

Looking back, Somaya and her mother cleaned houses and worked in housekeeping for hotels in order to make a living. From there, she began a photography business in an effort to make money to pay bills and provide her the flexibility with both time and money that she needed to audition. Ultimately, acting and music are her true passions thanks to her environs.

The acting Though her animated personality makes her perfect for theater, she stays true to herself and is following her heart right in to the studio and on the big screen. Somaya has such a true belief in herself and her abilities, that she started her career without the help of an agent or even a manager. “I went into studying method acting because I didn’t think there is a situation I haven’t been through,” she reflects.

When asked about her thespian experience, although she has worked with the likes of A-list actor Eric Roberts, Somaya openly talks about how she was

treated on set. From degradation to the complete lack of respect from both cast and crew, she admits that not all her times on the set were positive ones.

She recalls an incident where a major actor referred to her and her cultural background in a very negative way, but she stood up for herself and her culture and very politely corrected the actor, but not before hurting his ego. “There is no such thing as small roles, only small actors,” Somaya states. “Being persistent and professional is what gets you noticed.”

Her persistence has earned her roles in major films including American Psycho (2002), The Scorpion King (2002), Ride or Die (2003), Miss Cast Away (2004), Go For It (2009), the hit UPN sitcom Girlfriends and HBO’s Entourage.

And Somaya promises more roles to come.

The music When asked about her music, Somaya says, “I grew up in a very typical and very traditional Latino home,” Somaya states. “I grew up listening to a lot of Latino music. In the streets is where I heard the more rap, but I grew up listening to Celia Cruz, the salsa, cumbia and meringue types of music.

Through my sisters I learned about Madonna, The Beastie Boys and music like that.” With such eclectic influences and exposure to the styles of music she has indulged in during her global travels, she has developed her own sound and capitalized off of it.

“It is unlike anything currently out there,” Somaya says regarding her current recordings. “My music career began with me having the crappiest music in the world. My new manager is more connected than the phone company, so I’m finally able to truly be creative and not have people do me dirty on my music contract.” She continues, “I have good music now. I would like to call it ‘experimental,’ but my manager says that is too general. So its electronica, hip-hop, rock and a new age type of music.

From traveling the world, when I came back from Egypt and Africa, I was so inspired by what I heard that I deleted all the music I had online except ‘Ohh Baby Baby.’ If it’s not music that means something or makes me feel like saying ‘that’s dope,’ then I’m not doing it. I got some serious Kenya-like beats that will make you think you are listening to an entire tribe.

I’m very open to everything. I’ve got this electronica music that I call legwarmer music. My music is all me. I’ve got a really polished and new sound. I want to be fun with my music.”

Evidently, Somaya is bringing her “A” game and it is working for her. She has recently signed a new label deal with Universal/INgrooves. Considered one of the successful digital music distribution companies in the world, she is poised to take the helm of her new entertainment empire. The new video/ single “Tramp” from her recently released album, Miss Opinionated, is creating quite the buzz on the

Net. The video was directed by the highly revered Tim Burton and Patrick McKenzie. Their company called Zoo Effects has directed projects for Soulja Boy, Guns & Roses, Busta Rhymes and many more.

Cameos in the video include West Coast rap veteran Ras Kass, CC Chanel from Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory (she’s also the girl rapping on the “Tramp” bridge), Crooked I and Chino XL. The modeling Millions worldwide have seen her in print ads for some major campaigns, but Somaya negates the “model” classification. “I don’t model and don’t consider myself a model,” she says. “There are only two things that I can do that I can truly create with and that is either acting or my music. As far as modeling, there is absolutely no challenge to show up and be beautiful in my opinion. I never really liked modeling. I went through my share of everything in respect to modeling–the eating disorders and everything. If you’re blessed with beauty, why not model? You get to wear pretty clothes, which is really cool, but what’s challenging and shows you who you are as a person?

The tolerance and discipline is in acting or music.

All other business, my clothes, my shoes come after that.”

Regardless of Somaya serious attitude regarding challenging herself and making the arts her focal point, her sexy curves and overall beauty cannot be denied. Somaya was blessed with her physique at the age of 10 and she is proud to say that she is proud of this, although it may have been awkward for her when she was younger.

Now, she uses it to her advantage and finds it important to let her friends, family and fans know how she feels about her body because she’s been through it all.

Somaya experienced both bulimia and anorexia when she was modeling. Now seasoned from her life’s adversities, she believes that people just need to feel comfortable with themselves and overlook the public perception of what a “beautiful” body is supposed to look like. She’s all woman and proud of every curve. Somaya no longer believes in having to starve or over-exercise herself in order to fit into this pre-conceived idea of what a Hollywood starlet should be molded into. Her pride and honor to be voluptuous has earned her praises as “the next Sophia Loren,” labeled “The Latina Jessica Rabbit” by Telemundo, one of the “Hottest Woman on the Web” by E! Television and nominated as the “Internet Hottie” by Spike TV’s Guy Choice Awards.

Although Somaya is poised to make an indelible mark on the entertainment industry

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for years to come thanks to her appearance in feature films, sexy photo shoots with some of the world’s top photographers and is consistently making hits on the airwaves and Internet, don’t get it twisted.

She hasn’t let her success get to her head. Along with her experiences in the industry and life overall have kept her down to earth, Somaya’s close-knit relationship with her mother and family has built the strong foundation she needs to continue to be the success God meant for her to be.

To learn more about Somaya Reece: … on Twitter: www.twitter.com/SomayaReece … on MySpace: www.myspace.com/somayareece …and on her Web site: www.missreece.com Also, call her fan hotline free of charge at (213) 785-7668 J

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harvey levin The gatekeeper of celebrity news

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words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

or celebrities, it’s a flip of the coin when it comes to making Harvey Levin’s extremely popular show,

TMZ. For blockbuster actors, top athletes or anyone with followers, the “Thirty Mile Zone’s” coverage can be giving praise, poking humor or disclosing something extremely embarrassing. Whatever it is, Mr. Levin, a former law professor and The People's Court personality, ensures his millions of viewers that anything with his name on it will be the most dependable and candid reporting source.

From breaking the news of Michael Jackson’s passing to being the first to report Tiger Woods’ return to the golf course, Harvey and his prized staff go above and beyond the call of duty to be the prime source to hear trustworthy celebrity news and gossip.

Always on the go in his hometown of Los Angeles, Harvey, 59, is the ringleader of TMZ on TV and managing editor of TMZ. com, which receives more than ten million visitors a month. With all of these duties plus the launch of the new TMZ Sports website, it’s virtually impossible to find time for the man you always see facilitating with a mystery drink in hand.

But then again, this is J’Adore. Read on.

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J’A dore: How do you master the balance between all the roles and occupations you juggle in a typical day?

Harvey Levin: It's really hard. There’s very little breathing room with this job. I get up at three, I go to the gym at four and then I'm in the office about 20 minutes to 6:00 a.m. until I go to bed at 9 p.m. It never stops. It’s a victory that I can go to the bathroom when I need to.

Let's start with TMZ. How did you come up with the perfect formula to make it different from all the other news sources and paparazzi?

We're a news operation and not like a lot of celebrity news. The whole premise of this is simple. We're going to cover celebrities with the same aggressiveness as a news operation does. I've done news for decades–hard news– and it’s basically applying those principles to the genre.

It's really not that complicated.

It all comes down to integrity?

If people trust you, you will do really well. If they don't trust you, you will fail and that’s what this is about. We have to deal with sources and stories so we have to be trusted. I think we have people’s trust and that's why we've done well.

image By: Steven Kahn How do you prepare your staff and set the standards for coverage?

We have constant discussions. We are in one big room so everyone hears everyone's business and we are egalitarian. We have arguments and discussions all day long and it's a constant education for everyone. The reason why I sit out in an open newsroom is because when I have discussions, I want everyone to hear them. If I’m talking just to one person, then I know the rest of the room is hearing it and understands what the principles are.

What

we see from your show is that you're very

personable with your staff, which is different from a lot of executives.

says, "This is my only job." You can take a PA [personal assistant] and a PA can turn into a superstar.

What

celebrity would you love to sit and have

dinner with?

See, I don't really get around celebrities. I don't want to be tainted by a personal feeling. I've had a couple of luncheons and once you have a personal relationship with someone and a story comes along, it’s now, okay, how do you separate the two? I really do try to keep my distance. I've never been a person who tries to go to Hollywood or anything. It’s not like I’m denying myself of anything; I've just never been like that.

What is your method to maintain

that vibe throughout the day?

I will praise and criticize. I want to make the staff as good as they can be, and by far this is the best staff in four years. Everyone is good and everybody is growing. That’s the trick to us.

Why is that?

Nobody has learned everything that they need to learn. There are principles especially for young people where they can look and say, "Oh! I can apply that." I’ve watched that happen–young people who have become great and become brilliant. They've absorbed it and that's the idea here. Nobody sits and

It has to help to have a law background.

I think the law background helps every day.

There’s a certain critical thinking that you learn in law school that stays with you for the rest of your life.

I apply that every day. I apply it to every story I do, but my law school training has been the most valuable asset that I have. I have learned a lot along the way of being a reporter for many years, but the most important thing for me is being able to critically look at something.

What is the biggest misconception about celebrity life?

I think ultimately everybody is the same. People have the same issues and the same problems. No matter how much money or how much fame you have, people are people. You can look at the glitz and the glam and everything else, but people are the same.

You

have

TMZ Sports

coming up.

Tell

us about

that and how would that be different from what you're doing now?

Well we've been covering sports already. A lot of what we do involves sports stars and sports stars are celebrities. There’s such an appetite for it and we're all so interested for it, so we're going to grow that because I think there's a place in the market for covering sports in the TMZ voice. That's what we're going to do [this] year.

Okay, take a breather. What is your ideal day of relaxation?

Sleep sounds great. It really, really does. The idea of getting eight hours of sleep is great. I'd rather have that than a Caribbean cruise. Seriously.

Be sure to watch TMZ on TV and visit TMZ.com for the latest on today’s top celebrities. J

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C

working the

Thirty One on one with TMZ’s Dax Holt words By: Carly Felton

A

producer and reporter for TMZ, 27-yearold Dax Holt’s job is to share outrageous photos of celebrities in some of their most bizarre moments. Also a daily correspondent

for both news and radio shows around the country, Holt has been with TMZ since Day 1. J’Adore caught up with this spiky blonde optimist to get the inside scoop on what it’s like to be a professional celebrity insider.

Images: Steven Khan Grooming: Alex LaMarsh Styling: Lyndzi Phan

J’A dore: How did you get involved with TMZ? Dax Holt: It started as an internship with an entertainment TV show. I had been told that I should meet Harvey [Levin, founder of TMZ]. My first assignment was a PETA red carpet event where I met Pink, Pamela Anderson and Dennis Rodman. When I brought the tape back, I was hired. That was before the TMZ Web site launched. I’ve been here ever since.

What does your regular workday include, schedule-wise?

It starts at 5:15 a.m. I begin by looking through paparazzi photos from the day before and deciding what the public will like, whether it’s Britney going on a date night or George Clooney having a yacht excursion. I decide what’s cool and pitch it in the morning meeting at 6:30. I also do morning news and radio interviews. Then I go to work buying photos, acquiring license usage [rights] and balancing the budget. I’m able to get out of here around 2:30 p.m. I get up at 4 a.m., so after work, I go home, go to gym and hang out with my wife. I don’t have much of a nightlife except on the weekend.

What is the boss man always drinking in that cup?

God, I wish I knew! It is the biggest secret on the planet. I want some of whatever it is–he is the

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Mile Zone hardest worker on the planet and hardly sleeps. It’s kept kind of confidential. I’ve tried to sneak out and find out for myself, but it hasn’t happened. [The drink] just sort of appears every morning on that little ledge, waiting for him.

they don’t feel right. One of the more famous ones was the Michael Phelps smoking the bong photos. We passed on that. We didn’t want to be the people killing the national hero. The company who did got a lot of backlash for it.

Who are the most approachable celebrities?

Most approachable would be Hugh Jackman and John Mayer. They really understand the game of fame.

They talk to the camera and interact with fans. I look up to the way they interact with people. They come across as very kind individuals. They seem to go along with their life and invite the camera to join them on their journey.

What defines a celebrity?

Celebrity status is [defined by] your popularity at the moment, whether you’re infamy like the D.C. party crashers and Balloon Boy, or people who have been around for years like Mick Jagger.

Which celebs are not so approachable?

If a cameraman runs into Woody Harrelson or Sean Penn on the street, he or she shouldn’t follow them for too long. They’ve been known to rough up quite a few paparazzi in their day.

What are the limits to exposing a celebrity's lifestyle?

We just cover their lives. We don’t out people’s sexuality. We’re not the bedroom police. There’s a “yuck factor” with certain stories; stories you feel grimy talking about and don’t want to cover. There are thousands of stories that we turn down on a daily basis because

What is the biggest mistake you’ve ever made?

I was trying to show off to a bunch of kids and did a back flip and dislocated both ankles. It worked out because I came in on crutches and that’s when I met Harvey. I think I got the pity hire.

Is there any other advice you'd like to give?

If I had to give one piece of advice to celebrities, I’d tell them to act more like Brad and Angelina. They live their lives so unaffected by the cameras. They have fun with their kids and aren’t bothered by the amount of people and cameras around them. I think they have a normal life because of it. They’ve mastered the art of being famous.

For more on Dax Holt and TMZ, visit TMZ.Com J

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words By: Ronda Racha Penrice

fire and desire:

marvet

britto

T

hese days, super publicist and branding impresario Marvet Britto is becoming just as recognizable as the clients she’s served over the years. In 2009 alone, she was a regu-

lar fixture on such respected shows as Larry King Live, Showbiz Tonight and The Joy Behar Show, mainly sharing her insight on the explosive Tiger Woods scandal as well as the Chris Brown/Rihanna intimate partner abuse situation.  j’adore

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I tell people to be okay where they are because it’s often God preparing you for your purpose.

Few publicists ever rise to this level of recognition, but Britto is far from your run-of-the-mill publicist. Star quality surrounds the always impeccably dressed Britto, who is known for her mean shoe game. For over 15 years, she’s been a trailblazer in a field that was tailor-made for her. “PR is what I believe I was wired to do,” she says.

“It’s what I believe I was blessed with; the gifts, talents and ability.”

And she’s done it well. Past clients include Mariah Carey, Angela Bassett, Foxy Brown, Gary Sheffield and Kim Cattrall, but she’s also branched off, becoming a co-executive producer with film visionary Lee Daniels (of current Precious fame) on several projects, including The Woodsman starring Kevin Bacon and Shadowboxer starring Cuba Gooding and Helen Mirren. It was Britto who introduced Daniels and Mariah Carey, who received glowing reviews for her surprising role in Precious.

Like so many of us, Britto’s purpose wasn’t always clear to her.

Born in Waterbury, CT and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Britto, a New Yorker for over 20 years now, didn’t know what a publicist was and grinded in what she believed were dead-end jobs at the time, just trying to make ends meet.

“I was a flight attendant, I was a concierge, I was a waitress so I’ve worked in a lot of jobs,” Britto says. “That’s why I tell people to be okay where they are because it’s often God preparing you for your purpose. I think that all of the jobs that I had prior to starting The Britto Agency just prepared me and gave me all the tools that I would need when I started, which is why from the moment I started I’ve been successful,” she testifies.

“I got fired from almost every job I ever had,” she adds, keeping it real, “and, again, I was always discouraged when it happened but I realize [now] that it was moving me closer to me having my own firm.”

Since landing her first client, the late Michelle Thomas, beloved for her role as Theo’s girlfriend Justine on The Cosby Show and Myra

from Family Matters, Britto has done more than excel in PR. There’s an office in Dubai as well as a corporate track record with respected companies like Motorola and Martell, where she’s insisted on events that give back to the community.

Although she never interned or held any other job in public relations prior to starting The Britto Agency, Britto preaches the virtues of hard work and preparation to those aspiring to fill her Manolos. “I went to Barnes and Noble without fail for two and a half years, sat on the floor because I couldn’t afford to buy books and read every book, not just on publicity, not just on business, [but] on psychology so I understood how people thought. I read autobiographies so I understood people’s lives. I only missed Christmas and I only missed one other day in two and a half years without fail,” she preaches.

“I know I make it look easy,” Britto says with a serious smile in her voice, “[but] you have to put in the work!” J

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T h e Photo Booth Hannibal Matthews

brian smith

photographyhas been one of the most moving and in fluential mediums of art for almost two centuries. R anging from the dramatic black and

Diwang Valdez

white to the brilliance of full of color, pictures have the ability to conjure up virtually any emotion from the viewer by exhibiting an object in its truest sense.

Although the shot captures a millisecond, its explanation can take a lifetime. Legendary photographers like Gordon Parks, A nnie Leibovitz, Herman Leonard, and Harry Benson have demonstrated over time just how instinctive and visually creative one’s eye can be.

Shannon McCollum

kat goduco

Thanks to my job as an editor for a publication that truly appreciates the art of photography, I have come across a few shooters who masterfully validate the expression, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” In an ongoing series, here is the first installment of J’Adore’s Photo Booth, featuring world renowned photographers Hannibal Matthews, Shannon McCollum, Diwang Valdez, Kat Goduco and Brian Smith. The subject is celebrities.

Enjoy.- DMB

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Words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

features

Hannibal Matthews About the photographer: Hannibal Mathews, who is habitually quiet and more focused than the automatic “weapons” he uses to photograph some of the most well-known celebrities in the world, is far from silent when expressing his fondness for shooting. While his description of this photo was short and to the point, this Atlanta, Ga. native’s story on how he got started with photography was worth printing. He says: “As a child I always saw the world around me in stills. Every moment was a snapshot to be memorized and downloaded into the Rolodex of memories in my mind, but I never thought that I would actually become a professional photographer. It just wasn't a reality for me at the time. I grew up in a basement of a small three bedroom house that sat right next door to an often swollen creek called ‘a dream deferred,’ (laughing), so I guess I just didn't believe that I could actually make a living doing something that I absolutely loved. So, instead of taking the college route, I opted for the military one: four years in the Marine Corps and two and a half years as a US Army Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Divisions Long Range Surveillance detachment. It wasn't until after sustaining an injury during a training mission in early 2006 that I discovered my love for photography.

“During my rehab, I bought a cheap $25.00 Minolta XG-1 film camera from the local antique store and hit the reset button on the rest of my life. After being released from the military under honorable/medical conditions in December 2006, I quickly began my career as a shooter here in Atlanta in February 2007. In the last two and a half years, I moved from being a jobless veteran to running my own 4000 sq. ft photography studio. My client list now includes Rolling Stone, XXL, The Source, Upscale, Essence, Columbia Records, Universal Records, Def Jam, EMI, Warner Bros and BRAVO. Crazy, right? People often ask me how I got so far, so fast. My answer has little to do with me and everything to do with God's amazing favor over my life. I'm constantly stretching my faith and I've come to realize that the only thing that matters is faith expressing itself through love.”

What Hannibal says about his photo of Cash Money Records co-founder Bryan “Baby” Williams aka Birdman: "What do I enjoy most about music and entertainment photography? It's witnessing the vulnerable sides of seemingly invulnerable people. I think this photo says it all.”

Contact: www.hannibalmatthews.com

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Diwang Valdez

About the photographer: During a once-in-a-lifetime media trip with Atlanta’s own GoodieMob during the fall of 2009 to promote their longawaited reunion, this legendary hip-hop group chartered a metro Atlanta city bus and accompanied selected ATL media throughout the city. We visited personal landmarks where present original group members Big Gipp, T-Mo, Khujo and Cee-Lo grew up, went to high school, physically fought rival high schools and recorded some of the most influential and progressive music the rap world has ever embraced–in the infamous “Dungeon.” It was one of the most memorable press tours I have ever been a part of and when I asked a photographer who I just met that day to take a quick photo of me and CeeLo, he complied with no problem. His name was Diwang Valdez.

Here it is.

Since then, I have visited Diwang’s Web site and met the talented crew of media specialists that he works with called The Motion Family. Born in Rock Valley, Iowa, he now resides in Atlanta, Ga. and his clients include Sony Music Group, Island Def Jam, Warner Music Group, XXL Magazine and now, J’Adore.

What Diwang says about his photo of DJ Drama, co-owner of the Aphilliates Music Group and one of the most respected DJs in the nation who is revered for his “Gangsta Grillz” mixtape series: “This was shot right in front of the Aphilliates office for a group shoot featuring DJ Drama and DJ Sense. It was early 2009 and Drama had been calling himself ‘Barack ODrama’ for a while now. We did a few solo shots and it just made sense to showcase his new chain. This was my third or fourth time shooting Drama and this is one of my favorite shots of him.”

Contact: www.diwangvaldez.com www.motionfamily.com

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Shannon McCollum

About the photographer: Shannon McCollum, popularly coined the “Gordon Parks of Hip-Hop,” is one of the most revered photographers in the entertainment industry. Proudly labeling himself as a photojournalist, he has served as the personal photographer for John Legend, Lil Jon and dead prez, and has brilliantly captured everyone from P.Diddy to Ray Charles, Erykah Badu, Jesse Jackson, Cornel West, Snoop Dogg, Roy Hargrove and Gil Scott Heron.

Besides blessing a host of major publications such as The New York Times, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Vibe Magazine, Rolling Stone and Ebony with his art, Shannon also travels the world as a staff photographer for Delta Air Lines, taking assignments in Africa, Chile and Thailand.

He credits his father, who is also a dynamic photojournalist, for inspiring him to be the success he is today.

Shannon’s slogan, “Same camera, different eye,” couldn’t be more valid.

What Shannon McCollum says about his photo of rapper, producer and entrepreneur Kanye West: “I was in Paris, France on tour with John Legend and he invited Kanye to the show to do a song with him. After the show, Kanye went back in John's dressing room, sat on the couch and chilled out, cracking jokes. I sat on the end of the couch and shot about ten frames until I made him laugh and caught this picture.”

Contact: www.shannonmccollum.com

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Kat Goduco About the photographer: Kat Goduco is a freelance photographer who was born in the Philippines, raised in Maryland and now resides in Atlanta, Ga. She said, “I started shooting because I wanted to capture real emotion. I have been told that I get hired for my ‘eye’ and I shoot artistic and event-related projects involving people.”

What Kat says about her photo of rapper and entrepreneur Clifford “T.I.” Harris: “The Clifford Harris concert was a shoot that almost gave me an ulcer.

That night, which was my first night shooting for the AP (Associated Press), I was really excited and anxious to photograph T.I. I was with the AP writer assigned to the story and we were in the pit covering the acts of the concert.

“I photographed every act that preceded T.I. Once the stage was being set for him and he was ready to open up, the shutter on my camera freezes.

Basically my camera is broken and I didn’t bring my backup! I am scrambling to remedy the situation because I only have the length of two songs to photograph. There were other photographers around me and I decided to ask if I could borrow their camera so that I could shoot a couple of frames.

Most of them said no, but this one guy, I wish I remembered his name, said I could borrow it because he had to video some of the performance. So, I took his camera and shot 15 frames, four of which the AP published!”

Contact: www.katgoduco.com www.365daymiracle.com

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Brian Smith

About the photographer: When my Cornell University classmate from back in the day told me about a brilliant photographer named Brian Smith in Miami, Fla. I gave Brian a call and he sent me his portfolio. His amazing work and overall good nature made him a no-brainer for the J’Adore Photo Booth.

Brian’s photographed portraits of some of the world’s most influential people have been brandished in hundreds of publications including Sports Illustrated, ESPN the Magazine, The Source, Time and GQ. Awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his three decades of tireless work, Brian is preparing for the release of his book of portraits called Art & Soul. It will feature more than 100 actors, musicians and other celebrities including Taye Diggs, Alfre Woodard, Kerry Washington, Lynn Whitfield and Harry Belafonte, along with

their handwritten testimonials that stress the importance of the arts and arts education.

What Brian Smith says about his photo of the “King” of boxing promotion, Don King: “Don King is a photographer's dream. He shows up for shoots with props, a willingness to collaborate on a great photograph and best of all, that wonderful hair. On the shoot for Forbes magazine, Don kept telling me, ‘Get me on the cover, Brian! Get me on the cover!’ Don made the cover.

How could he not? It simply doesn't get any better.”

Contact: www.briansmith.com J

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Angela yee

words By: Mz. Limitless

Shade 45 DJ Angela Yee is more than a rumor report girl

G

rowing up in Brooklyn as a teenager, she was called “The News.”

Things haven’t changed for her much except now she gets paid for it. It also helps to work for one of the hottest satellite channels on the airwaves, Sirius’ Shade 45. Ms. Angela Yee has been putting in work for years and her time to shine has arrived.

Yee has interviewed everyone from Jessica Alba, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Jay-Z, Diddy, Kanye, 50 Cent, Eminem and T.I. to many others. Known in the industry for her “intimate and provocative” content, Yee keeps very busy with her two shows on Shade 45, The Morning After and Lip Service. The Morning After, will get your day started with plenty of news,

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gossip, great music, special live guests and her infamous Rumor Report. Her evening show, Lip Service, with co-host Leah Rose, takes on more hot, steamy and sexual topics that are just too much for the morning commute, yet both productions are highly entertaining and informative. So what else does Ms. News have going on? Read on to get the scoop.

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"I didn’t like them until I heard your interview and now I look at them completely different than I did before." I love that feeling when I’ve exposed a different side of a person that no one else has really seen before. That brings me a lot of satisfaction.

about anything that was true. I enjoy reading Devil Wears Prada-type of books. Things based on real experiences that are pretty funny.

What are your thoughts about the new landscape of the entertainment industry?

How has life been working at Shade 45?

I think this is my favorite, favorite job so far. I’ve always been a big talker, I’ve always liked to talk so I get to do that every single day and people are forced to listen. It keeps me very well versed in current events. Some people look

It has its benefits. It’s much easier to do a lot without spending a lot of money. The downside is artists aren’t making as much money as they used to. A lot of magazines are going out of business because everything is online. Everything is so instantaneous now. I think it’s great that we have access to

I like to be scared to try

something new and do a great job at it.

at me as the rumor report girl, but I’m more than that. I cover current events, news stories and even the people we interview are not just artists or celebrities. We interview experts on certain topics. It keeps me well-rounded as an individual. I can go out and have conversations about absolutely anything and I love that.

J’A dore: What has it been about the entertainment industry that has kept you here?

A ngela Yee: I’ve known a lot of people since I was younger. I grew up in Brooklyn. When I was in college I did a lot of internships. I worked at TVT Records and MTV, but it was always something that was offered to me, like, "Oh, my friend is looking for an intern." So, it was kind of like things were handed to me, but I was really good at them. I was into marketing, but writing was my thing. I always wanted to be a writer.

What

do you feel is most rewarding about what

you do?

There is nothing better than when I interview somebody and people who listen to the interview say,

What drives you to do that next big thing?

I like challenges. I like to be scared to try something new and do a great job at it. I did some things for this company, FlowTV, and they kind of went under. It was a daily rumor report show and I was on camera and I had never really been on camera before. I was so nervous and I sucked at it at first, but it was very rewarding for me to get the hang of it and then to be good at it. I felt like I could step into another situation where I can be on camera and I’m so much more comfortable than I would be if I had not have had that experience.

What is your ultimate passion in life?

I’ve always wanted to be a writer. I still do want to be a writer. Ideally for me, my situation would be doing what I do now with interviewing people. I hope to be interviewing on television, very in-depth interviews, but fun–kind of like Chelsea Handler. I don’t think there is enough of that. Like how Oprah interviews, but a younger audience. I would love to be writing books at the same time.

What type of books?

Fiction! I think people would kill me if I wrote

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information so quickly and for artists and celebrities to put themselves out there and speak directly to the people. They didn’t have that outlet before. Now when there is a rumor out there about you the next day, you can go online and record your own YouTube video and post it up and tell your side of the story.

The problem with that, though, is that there are the comments and bloggers that are not very nice.

The thing is for those people who get slammed, if people don’t like you then you must be doing something wrong. Take the criticism as inspiration to do better. When you see that people are writing negative things about you, you are on their radar, you’re occupying some space in their mind. You can take that as motivation to keep on doing bigger and better things instead of looking at it like, "They hate me!"

What new projects do you have in the works?

I’m working really hard on my Web site, TeamYee. TV. I realized I had a lot of great content from my show and other sites are picking it up, so why shouldn’t I put it up myself? So that is a big project of mine. I’m not planning on leaving Sirius anytime soon because I love that job, but there are definitely some other things in the works. I do want to stand out in that. We’ve also been shopping a pilot for our show Lip Service. We did a pilot with Akon that was really good, too.

Make sure you listen out for more Angela Yee on Shade 45’s The Morning After and Lip Service on Sirius Satellite Radio. J

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words By: Tedra Coakley

'Splendiferously divine'

b.scott

features

Do you know who B. Scott is? If not, you need to tap your neighbor

and find out. He’s taking the Internet and television by storm one step at a time. Six a.m. wake-up calls; meetings; celebrity interviews; updating his site, lovebscott. com; and shouting out to all of his “love muffins” all while making sure he looks “splendiferously divine.” Sounds overwhelming? Not for B. Scott, who simply sees this as another day’s work.

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After working as a realtor and interior designer post-graduation, Scott decided that he wasn’t happy. He packed up his life in three red suitcases and moved to L.A. He started doing some print work and soon after landed an HGTV print ad with “I Kissed A Girl” singer, Katy Perry.

Scott soon realized that his androgynous look was more than what advertisers wanted. He decided he wasn’t going to wait around for someone else to make him hot. “I’m going to start lovebscott.com because I have something to say,” he said. And he did Jan. 1, 2007. The following June, he posted his first YouTube video. “It’s weird because it all happened so fast. It’s like, whoa. I didn’t expect it and I didn’t have time to expect it.”

A lot has changed in media since Scott first launched his site.

“Everything is so instant. I think a lot of people who were in the business 10 to15 years ago are now looking at it and are just so shocked at celebrity entertainment. I think that for a lot of Web sites out there, I think the game has changed a lot. It seems like everybody and their mama has a blog. It seems like everybody and their mama is trying to get on YouTube. But I think that at the end of the day, it will always come down to personality. People want to hear what certain people have to say.”

And lots of people want to hear what B. Scott has to say.

So what does this budding media icon like to do for fun? Hikes in Runyon Canyon, hanging out at the The Grove in L.A., spending time with friends, interior design, going to the movies (by himself), and getting manis and pedis. Scott also likes to meditate. “Whenever I’m going through something, I just sit down, calm myself and meditate about being in a better place or spiritual consciousness.”

Last fall, B. Scott achieved one of his most prominent dialogues to date–an exclusive intimate backstage interview with Mariah Carey, the greatest selling female artist in history. “That moment in of itself was surreal, but it also showed me I can achieve anything I want to achieve,” he said. “If I can make that happen, I can do anything. That will always be my biggest interview.”

He also made a cameo in Carey’s music video for “Up Out My Face” featuring Nicki Minaj, which debuted Jan. 28, 2010. On Feb. 5, Scott appeared on The Tyra Banks Show, where he assisted the supermodel in cornering unsuspecting victims for “Ambush Stranger Makeovers.”

B. Scott is a rising star on the fast track and he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.

He’s looking into doing some radio work and recently signed a TV production deal for his own television show. Love Muffins rejoice! 2010 is the year of B. Scott.

J

{

For the full article on B. Scott, visit Jadoremag.com

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Featured Artist

dubelyoo: the art bishop

words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron images By: Hannibal Matthews

Pencils. Paint. Pens. Markers.

These are just a few items on the list of media the artistic visionary known as Dubelyoo uses to, as he terms it, “convert the wack.” Serving as the “Art Bishop,” Dubelyoo is the living inspiration for those painters, visual artists and other creative minds who aspire to master the art of implementing urban visual themes into the corporate world–or as many see it, gaining access past that imaginary velvet rope separating the ingenious from the masses.

Proudly crediting hip-hop culture as source of inspiration, Dub’s global fame stems from his usage of brilliant colors and his method of creating an artistic paradox of “exaggerated exactness.” From mindblowing portraits of the world’s most influential musicians along with other celebrities, politicians and even comic book heroes, his work has garnered contracts with both urban and world-leading companies.

While collaborating with these corporate powerhouses would define success to countless artists, Dubelyoo sees this as simply another stepping stone leading to his overall mission to demolish that seemingly impenetrable barrier between true artistry and the recognition it deserves both socially and financially. Customarily garbed with a Fedora and bohemian-flavored gear, Dubelyoo cannot hide his fervor behind the dark sunglasses he is wearing outside of a café in Midtown Atlanta, Ga. He says, “When an artist has control of their career, they have the freedom to create the art they want, negotiate the deals in which they receive the maximum benefit for their work and communicate directly to their audience in whichever media they see fit.”

A few years after he began promoting his avant-garde style of paintings and illustrations that successfully married cultures of hip-hop and

pop, Dubelyoo was soon commissioned to do everything from design sneakers for Converse to illustrate for a number of major publications. Simultaneously, he would happily take on projects that maintained his love for hip-hop, including transforming the photographer’s row at the front stage of live concerts into his temporary art gallery, setting up an easel and painting rap legends like De La Soul from scratch as he rhythmically bopped his head to their pulsating sound.

Like a true visionary, Dubelyoo’s burgeoning popularity did not derail his mission to create cool relevant work while helping fellow artists. He began to produce riveting and often controversial art shows themed with elements that both positively and negatively influenced the masses daily, and invited some of Atlanta’s most talented photographers, painters, graffiti artists, dancers, musicians and other free minds to flaunt their mastery. For instance, his Public Enemy-influenced “My Uzi Weighs A Ton” exhibit provided numerous captivating artistic interpretations of the world’s fascination with firearms and drew sold-out crowds by the hundreds over the span of one weekend. However, even though affairs like these were highly successful and critically acclaimed, they could be termed “intimate” compared to Dubelyoo’s co-production of the nation’s largest traveling urban art exhibition titled “Art, Beats + Lyrics.” Here, some of Atlanta’s most talented and rebellious artists were transported by the busloads to collaborate with locals in major metropolises throughout the East Coast including Charlotte, Baltimore, St. Louis and Birmingham. By forging a partnership with Jack Daniels, thousands of wide-eyed art lovers ranging from college students to CEOs flocked to these vivacious extravaganzas celebrating art and music that resulted in worldwide recognition.

With AB+L and several other art shows scheduled, Dubelyoo once again proves that “underground” art could certainly surface and eventually elevate to infinite heights if the drive, hustle and right formula is exercised. He professes, “Artists need to play a more active role in charting their career. We should view ourselves in the same light as other artists like actors and musicians. Also, we need to use the same public relations element and business savvy they use to bring the audience to their work.” Simply put, he believes that possessing the ability of bringing the “wow factor” back to art by engaging all of the viewer’s senses through multimedia and proper promotion can change minds universally.

By providing his creative genius to music videos, feature films, publications, Web sites and art exhibitions, Dubelyoo, the Art Bishop, has legitimately escaped from the confines of mediocrity and made the world one giant canvas that he continues to bless with vibrant life thanks his pencils, paints, pens, markers and one additional medium–passion. J

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sharon carpenter Words By: Erica McRae

When it comes to passionate award-winning news reporting, BET’s Sharon Carpenter is a sure bet.

Leaving her native land of Wartford, England, Sharon Carpenter wanted to confirm America was the “Land of Opportunity,” moved to New York and eventually found her calling in broadcast journalism.

Since graduating with Top Honors from Pace University, Sharon eventually became one of the most respected news sources in the country as an award-winning reporter and host for Black Entertainment Television. From covering life-altering catastrophes like Hurricane Katrina to interviewing world-renowned personalities including Oprah Winfrey, Jay-Z and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Ms. Carpenter finally gets the opportunity to reverse roles and become the interviewee. J’Adore’s Erica McRae finds out how the esteemed news source handles racism, her love for hip-hop, Mr. Right and working for BET.

J’A dore: How was life in England? Did you grow up with both of your parents?

Sharon Carpenter: Yes, but my parents got divorced when I was nine years-old. My mom married my stepdad in which he played big role in my life. I grew up with them and my brother and sister.

My parents now live in Arizona, but my real father still lives in England.

You did a documentary called “Beauty Blackout” that covered the racism and discrimination of A frican A mericans in England. What are some of the issues you’ve faced while growing up?

Growing up, I was the only person of color in my school besides my brother and sister. We dealt with a lot of discrimination at an early age. From age four to 14, we dealt with children not wanting to play with us and calling us names. When I got older and started liking boys, they didn’t like me. I was seen as unattractive. It didn’t bother me but it did hurt my feelings a little, but I came from a strong background and my mother tried her best to make sure we all felt good about ourselves. So instead of focusing on the way that I looked, I focused on my talents. I was great at art, math and English so I always got recognition for that.

At what point in your life, did you decide to move to A merica and what was your motivation?

I was around 17 when I came to the States. I was around a lot of people who were very content with what they had and they were not go-getters. I was very different from that and wanted to achieve big things for my life. In England, you always look at America as the land of opportunity, so I mentioned me going to a University in America to my mom, and she said “Let’s look into that.” When I arrived to New York for college, I attended Pace University and attained a degree in business management.

When did you first fall in love with hip-hop and what was the first rap song you’ve heard?

My brother actually got me into hip-hop. He was a DJ and producer in the UK and I looked up to him. That’s where my love of music came from. My brother was really into LL Cool J and he got me into his music. I remember “Momma Said Knock You Out” being one that I was really into.

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What advice would you give to those wanting to break into the world of broadcasting and journalism?

To get into the world that I’m in, you really have to know how to write, produce and create your own stuff. It’s great to be able to be in control of your own stories. People always ask me, “Is it important to know how to read from the teleprompter?” Yes, because in order to be an anchor, that’s a skill you must have. Also, being able to write script while you are out in the field, knowing which sound bites you are going to use and what angle you are going to approach the story with.

A fter your arrival to BET, how were you accepted by your colleagues? Did you have to deal with prejudgment?

People saw that I worked hard to get to where I am now. I don’t focus on jealous people. When you are successful, people are always going to hate whether it’s inside or outside your company. It’s important to stay focused. Being in this industry, you have to have tough skin, especially when you are on air and people always have something to say, but you have to know and critique yourself. You just have to stay focused on your talents and not let those situations knock you off course.

Honestly, how hard is it, being a female in this male-dominated industry, to be assertive and dominant without coming across as a “female dog”?

You can be a woman in this industry and still have power. I admit, when I first started in this industry, I was a lot more passive than I am now. Doing what I do, you can’t be passive. If you want to make it into this industry, you have to be aggressive and I’ve learned how to become that. I know it’s hard for some women because you still want to act like a lady and if you do act more aggressively, some people might want to call you a “bitch,” but you have to be true to yourself and know when to step up and take charge of responsibility. There are times when you are going to have to put your foot down.

What’s your work schedule like? A re you required to go in the office every day?

Yeah, I come in every day. I work anywhere from 10 hours to whenever; sometimes I work 24 hours when major things are going on such as the Inauguration or the Michael Jackson story. I’ve even worked 36 and 48 hours! It varies, but it’s a part of being a journalist. You have to be prepared to work, work, work!

Okay, you know J’A dore loves style. Which celebrity embodies the ultimate swag?

Barack Obama! President Obama has the ultimate swag. Next to him would be Jay-Z. Obama is just so confident and he carries himself so well. When he walks into a room, you really feel it.

Speaking of swag, we’ve seen your style and obviously you love clothes. Currently, who are your favorite fashion designers?

Oh my God! I love Black Halo. D&G and Tracy Reese are some of my favorites as well. I’m also a jeans girl. You can dress them up or play them down. I love Seven Jeans.

A re you dating or is there a special someone in your life right now?

I’m very focused on my career right now. I hang out with people, but no, I don’t have a boyfriend right now.

Well if there was a Mr. Right out there for you, what would be his attributes and assets?

I love a man who is considerate and understanding. A man who is secure with himself is a must.

It’s difficult for some men to go out with women in this business, especially women who meet different types of men in this industry, because that can cause insecurities within themselves. I also love a man who is passionate about his career such as I am. A guy should be my best friend before becoming my boyfriend. I like a man who I can converse and laugh with.

What is the worst pick-up line you’ve experienced from a guy?

The worst thing is when you are walking down the street on the phone and a guy tries to talk to you while you are on the phone saying, “Let me holla at you for a second.” That is so rude.

Okay, let’s bring it home. Life after BET: Once everything is accomplished, what would you want your legacy to be? What will we all remember Sharon by?

That’s a difficult question. Wow, I never thought about that before. I really want people to recognize me as a credible journalist and as someone who tells important stories. J

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‘gyant’ steps Controversial blogger and entertainment reporter Lloyd Thurston “Gyant” Dinwiddie continues to get bigger in the world of show business whether celebrities like it or not.

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words By: Dennis Malcolm Byron

esides his 6’7” frame, Lloyd Thurston Dinwiddie’s “Gyant” alias signifies his impact on the world of show business with his frank, fearless, yet informative blogging. Based in Atlanta, Ga. by way of New Jersey,

Gyant’s road to success has been paved by his constant hustle and extensive experience in media, including working with urban blog site SOHH.com, numerous top radio stations as an entertainment correspondent and now his own venture, Gyant Media, which includes his Gyantunplugged.com blog with thousands of followers and hilarious show, Gyant Unplugged TV. From red carpets to award shows, Gyant will be there and exchanging pleasantries (or expletives if a celeb gets funky) with everyone from Alicia Keys to Cornel West. Just know that if the event is hot, Gyant will be there and provide his fans and followers with what they want – the real deal.

J’A dore: How did you get started with your celeb-

rity reporting?

Gyant: I got started in the entertainment industry in 2003. My story is unique in itself because I always had a desire to be in radio. I've always had a larger than life personality that would draw people in and want to befriend me–or at least talk to me. I used to spend hours listening to radio personalities.

Yet, after many attempts of trying to get my shot in the radio industry, I came to realize that it was time to dream another dream.

One day I was listening to my favorite on-air personality, Wendy Williams, on Internet radio and she would always shout out these Web sites for celebrity information. I remember the day it happened. I even remember where I was when the moment occurred.

After spending a few minutes on a now immensely popular blog site, I had found my calling. The next day I established a blog site and the rest is, what they say, history.

the summer of

What are your guidelines and rules that you folGyant different from others? low when you do your work and what makes

The guidelines and rules I follow when I do my work [are] to be true to myself and the topic at hand.

Blogging is much different from actual journalism. A journalist’s job is to give you the information from an objective point of view. Blogging is strictly opinion-based.

I make no bones about the fact that I am very judgmental of people–particularly of celebrities. All I try to do is be as fair as I can in my judgment when I attack a story. One of the contributing factors to the success of my career is the fact that I won't give you the benefit of doubt. I will not look away. I will call a spade a spade and call you out on something if I feel passionate enough about it. Passion is definitely a factor in what I do. Some bloggers feel the need to comment or address every story out there. I don't feel the need to do that. If I don't care about the topic, I won't comment.

As for what makes Gyant different from others, well, most bloggers are afraid for you to see who they are. They're deathly afraid of the outcome of having an opinion. Today's “celebrity” has changed and evolved from that of the past. They will get in your face and challenge you on something you've said. And

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most bloggers can't handle a strong reaction from their work. I'm not that way. I go out to the clubs, I party like any other red-blooded young man and I'm always prepared for the fact that somebody might not like what I have to say.

Have you been threatened before?

In the beginning I would get physically threatened, accosted and verbally harassed by top celebrities and their entourages, and I've always stood my ground.

And it's because I've been so accessible and unafraid that I've gained their respect. I'm the sort of blogger who will trash your event on my blog and then go to your party the same night and introduce myself. I've come to learn that celebrities and public figures respect my unwavering approach. Because at the end of the day, I don't know them; it's just an opinion on the topic at hand.

What are some of the misconceptions in the world of entertainment?

Some of the biggest misconceptions about the world of entertainment [are] how calculated everything is. I mean, sure, you have your scandals, but

for the most part a lot of it is simply marketing and gimmicks. How many of us believed that Beyoncé and Alicia Keys used to be bitter enemies? How about Rihanna privately "jumping off" with Jay-Z? Most of it is just fodder to gain the public's interest.

Another thing is the perception that celebrities are ballin'. Are some of them living in palatial estates and living lavish lifestyles? Sure. But most are not. I've seen some of the craziest falsehoods and misconceptions that would make your mouth fall open.

What has been your most controversial moment so far?

Well I've had so many, so how do I begin? Let's see…I've had so many red carpet run-ins with the likes of Big Boi from Outkast, Jermaine Dupri, the now incarcerated Gucci Mane and many others. But, the one that comes to mind the most is my run in at this year’s BET Hip Hop Awards with Allhiphop.com's publicist Chiquita Smalls. While I won't go into detail too much, the name alone should put you in the mind frame as to who and what I was dealing with. She has a problem with me for not covering her events and chose to exercise her First Amendment right to tell me how she felt about it.

She came at me verbally and I returned the favor. And the next thing you know, we're shouting and screaming at one another at [the] award ceremony and drawing the most embarrassing public display. I humbly regret it, but that's easily my most controversial moment to date. Unless you want to count me making BET's Frankie from Frankie & Neffe cry. Ha! Who are the coolest celebrities you have dealt with?

The coolest celebrities I have dealt with is always such a hard question to answer. This is a loaded question that gives me anxiety because you almost know that you're going to forget somebody. I have to say hands down it's Big Boi from Outkast. He's probably easily the most accessible.

A lot of celebrities make you go through their people to get them. Big Boi does not. He reads the blogs and even if he doesn't like what you say, he's always around and will make time for you to get an interview. Plus, he's always so cool to his fans.

I've never seen him say no to anything a fan requested of him.

Ludacris, Jermaine Dupri, Trey Songz, Monica, Keri Hilson, T.I., LL Cool J and Estelle are all very, very cool. Keri still stops and makes small talk with me even though I've personally vilified

her on my blog sites. That says a great deal about her character.

Who are the most standoffish?

Ha! I like to call them “shady.” Andre 3000, Janet Jackson, Jay-Z and Beyoncé. I've been snubbed by all four of them. Perhaps it’s because I'm not the nicest. But it is what it is.

What are some of the biggest rumors about celebrities that are not true?

Currently, the biggest rumor that isn't true is the one about Pleasure P being a child molester.

That one spread like wildfire and I even have to own up to the fact that I contributed to the malicious story. Currently, Pleasure aka Marcus Cooper is in the fight of his life in turning around the public's opinion after numerous bloggers all went in on him from someone who clearly was out to get him.

I have personally tried my best to clear up all the allegations as best I can on Gyantunplugged. com and have deleted all false posts regarding that incident. And it's a shame, too, because on the day those rumors spread, Pleasure had just earned three Grammy nominations.

What trends will we see in 2010 and what music projects are you excited for in the future?

I think some of the biggest trends we're gonna see will definitely be in the music and movie business. It's no big secret that music, particularly in hip-hop, isn't selling. I see the music industry reverting back to single deals. I hear Def Jam is on the verge of closing its doors so that will be interesting to watch develop.

I definitely see us getting back to basics. With economy currently in shambles and everyone having to deal with their financial reality, I definitely see us all going back to the ‘less is more’ way of living.

Oh, and of course, scandals, scandals, scandals.

What do you have planned for your venture?

My plan is for me to fully develop my brand.

‘The Gyant’ has been giving you the celebrity scoop minus the bullshit for almost seven years now. I plan on working and expanding my TV show, Gyantunplugged TV. I currently have several TV offers on the table and it's just important for me to find the right fit with what I deliver.

I'm in early stages of developing a clothing line for the taller people of the world that I'm excited about. Other than that, I am grinding it out so my fans get to see me doing it bigger and better. J

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Frank ski Celebrity radio host and philanthropist Frank Ski delivers on and off the air.

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words by: Kimberly Walker

rank Ski, media personality and host of V-103 Atlanta’s top-rated morning show, “Frank and Wanda in the Morning,” is known for his bold opinions and widely respected for his even bolder devotion to giving back to the communities of Atlanta. Ski’s extensive background

Auction photos by: Ben Rose

as a popular DJ and music producer have packed his little black book with celebrity friends such as Sean Combs, Ludacris, and even political powerhouses like Al Sharpton. Rather than flaunt his connections, Ski has always used his star-studded network to empower and educate at-risk youth.

Tanya Ski, Frank’s wife and co-partner of all of his philanthropic efforts, maintains that their vision is united by their faith. “We shared the same philosophy on radio which is, ‘to whom much is given, much is required.’ We’re both saved and we’re both Christians. We feel that we’ve been blessed with a lot, so in turn, we give the community some of our services and help.”

This super couple’s highly anticipated Annual Frank Ski Kids Foundation's Celebrity Wine Tasting and Live Auction held at their lavish estate is the toast of Atlanta’s holiday season each December.

Renowned for the exotic wines, luxurious items up for bid and elite company of socialites, dignitaries and celebrities eager to contribute to a good cause, the proceeds go to benefit the Frank Ski Kids Foundation which focuses on giving underprivileged kids “once in a lifetime” excursions. For instance, during the summer of 2009, the organization took ten low-income students to study art in Florence, Italy.

“It was important for me to be here,” Rev. Jesse Jackson said during the 6th annual tasting during the winter of 2009. “Frank Ski is such a giver and a supporter of the youth. Life is a challenge to overcome odds, so turn your story into your glory.”

Longtime music executive and author Kevin Liles has been a friend of Dr. J (Julius Erving) and Dorys Erving, Frank and Tanya Ski Frank and Tanya for years, and had nothing but love for the generous host. “Frank is a big giver, he’s a special friend, and I love him to death.”

This stellar event, coupled with Ski’s Youth Bowl VI, raked in $178,000 for his Foundation.

Along with giving, Ski has another love–media. The outspoken humanitarian had a lot to say about Doug E. Fresh, Raheem Devaughn (recording artists)

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the addition of “microwaveable” news courtesy of social networking sites like Twitter. “The Internet just allows people to have a better variety of what they want, along with more specialized programming. Television had to adapt to cable, but VH1 hasn’t taken away from ABC or CBS. They just have to be more creative.”

He also validated the need for what some consider a failing industry. “I think what’s evident is that when it’s important, people still want to see it in print. When the president was inaugurated, everyone wanted it on the front page because it was history. The Internet can’t capture that.”

On his morning radio show, Ski frequently riles up listeners by blasting social networking sites for their positive and negative effects on society, and specifically, love. “People are trying to achieve a certain amount of success so fast, they don’t have time to court anymore,” Ski says matter-of-factly.

“The computer gives them a way to meet people fast and have relationships fast. Texting makes you open up faster than you would normally. After the second date, a dude is calling you ‘baby.’ He doesn’t even really know you, but people are realizing that these fast relationships don’t last.”

He doesn’t believe that raw, uncensored online and satellite radio programming will last for long either. “More people are civil. To a certain degree, people want some censorship.”

Amidst a shaky economy, Ski’s confident remarks disclose that although he’s not a fan of all new developments of radio, he’s definitely not concerned for its future. “The Internet is going to make radio more accessible. If you’re from Chicago and you have a favorite radio station there, but you move to Atlanta, you can still listen to your favorite radio station. I think you’ll start seeing the technology evolve.”

Ask Ski to choose between talking about the colorful antics of his day job or his purposeful giving, and he’ll definitely give you a heartfelt earful about his true passion. His career is just a means to impact more lives and he and his wife are committed to doing just that. Successful children, proud parents, and visions of college degrees are what keep this media giant working on and off the air. J

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crystal

words by: Robert Littal

howard I When there is a sports crisis, ESPN calls this queen of public relations

n the world of sports media, there is ESPN. The “worldwide leader” has evolved from a small network that showed “Strong Man” competitions as their primetime telecast to a multi-media giant that has become as routine in the

mornings as coffee to every avid sports fan. When an entity is involved in so many things that are so vast in audience, having a great public relations team is imperative. That’s where Crystal Howard takes the reins.

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Serving as the director of public relations at ESPN for its Enterprises Division, Howard joined ESPN’s PR team in 2006 and her expertise was immediately put to work for multiple projects. Working in such a high pressure position, Howard said, “We have a 24-hour news cycle and are a company with enormous global reach. I work with a great team and we work hard to support the brand.” And in case a crisis does surface in the world of sports at any time, she also has a very Zen-like approach. “I look at it like this: with every challenge there is a lesson that can be learned. The bigger the crisis, the greater the lesson.”

One of the more recent lessons that Howard handled with professionalism was overseeing the widely successful ESPN The Magazine “Body Issue,” one of the most creative and edgy print campaigns in sports to date. The “Body” series covers garnered a great deal of publicity before they were even released, which Howard anticipated due to its choice of star athletes like Serena Williams virtually naked to celebrate her sculptured figure. In fact, when negative criticism did surface from particularly the Web site of Christianity Today in anticipation of nudity, Howard replied, "The assumption that there will be flat-out nudity is a bit of a presumption. Certain body parts will certainly be obscured. It certainly will

I work with a great team and we work hard to support the brand. be tastefully done. This is a sports magazine and it is being presented as such."

Based in New York, Howard’s reach goes far beyond solely ESPN Publishing, however. She also manages ESPN Consumer Products, ESPN Home Entertainment, the ESPN Zones and ESPN RISE. Additionally, the company’s high school content and event business are major responsibilities; national events like the Elite 11 High School Football competition, the Boost Mobile Elite 24 and the ESPN RISE National High School Invitational have become the cornerstones of the high school sports landscape and Howard makes sure all are covered successfully. Evidently, these multi-tasking skills have placed this executive at the epicenter of some of ESPN’s groundbreaking public relations strategies.

One of the most momentous events that Howard is responsible for is the publicity around ESPN The Magazine’s NEXT event during the most grandiose sports event in America–the Super Bowl. While its premise focuses on who is the next big athlete in sports that has included NFL’s Adrian Peterson and LeBron James from the NBA, it is certain that if they possess even a fraction of the determination, poise and team-first attitude of Howard, they will go far. J

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roland s. martin

"I

For Your Information

was calling myself a multimedia journalist before people were really calling themselves that. It was be-

cause I was actually doing that,” says Roland S. Martin. “Where we are now in the industry is where I’ve always wanted to be and that is doing radio, television, newspapers, magazines and Internet, all under one roof. That’s what I’ve always been prepared to do.”

And that’s no exaggeration on Martin’s part. A super journalist, Martin has excelled at every imaginable form of communication, be it newspaper, radio, television, magazines…you name it, he’s tackled it and at all levels. But Martin is the last one surprised by his success. He’s banked on it from the beginning.

As a high school student, the Houston native focused on his life’s calling, excelling at Jack Yates High School in a communications magnet program. From there, he studied journalism at Texas A&M University. Following his college education, Martin’s media takeover initiated with a job at the Austin American-Statesman, where he covered the 1992 Republican National Convention and Hurricane Andrew. At the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Martin really kicked it into high gear, attracting national attention for his coverage of the Waco Siege in 1993 and the Oklahoma City Bombing in 1995.

Today, Martin is most noted for his television work, particularly on CNN during Barack Obama’s successful campaign to become the nation’s first African-American president. Expanding his role on TV One, where his televised commentary first gained a national audience, Martin now hosts his own Sunday morning political showdown, Washington Watch with Roland Martin.

Juggling it all is manageable for Martin because “they all have a connection,” he explains. “I think when you’re trying to do four or five different things in four or five different areas, it becomes too much so absolutely they all feed off one another.”

As he’s gained acceptance in mainstream circles, Martin has never forgotten his core black audience, particularly the black press. “The black press has always been in my DNA,” he says, specifically referring to the time he spent helming the

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words by: Ronda Racha Penrice legendary Chicago Defender before joining CNN full-time in 2007. “What I liked about that opportunity [at the Chicago Defender was being] able to take something that was depressed, something that had been ignored, and really study it and look at it in a unique way to really make it relevant to the 21st century. That’s what I loved about it.”

Chicago-area listeners miss The Roland S. Martin Show on WVON, once heard daily, but now regularly share him with the rest of the nation on The Tom Joyner Morning Show. If that weren’t enough, Martin even finds time to blog on his web site, www.rolandsmartin.com. Married to a minister, Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin, the Renaissance man has never abandoned his faith. At CNN, the author of Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith even hosted the Christian special, What Would Jesus Really Do?, around Easter 2007.

Always willing to experiment, Martin tested out the publishing on-demand model for his timely book, The First: President Barack Obama’s Road to the White House, comprised of his original reporting. Ask him where he’s headed next and his answer will surprise you.

“I don’t know,” Martin responds. “That’s the whole point. The whole point is that you don’t know. You keep developing. You keep your eyes and ears open. You have possibilities of producing documentaries, other shows, additional books… who knows?”

For Martin, it’s never been about one particular thing; it’s really about the journey. “The bottom line,” he shares, “you get the opportunity to see and do different things. That’s what my goal is.” J

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Stuart

McDonald: J’Adore Blogging with a Purpose words by: Tedra Coakley

caught up with Stuart McDonald, the outspoken blogger making waves in the blogosphere. He delivers real talk on

real life situations, all while being true to himself and his Christian beliefs. As a student at Georgia State University double-majoring in sociology concentrating in race and urban studies and English concentrating in advanced composition and rhetoric, McDonald knows a thing or two about people and the world around them. He’s a great conversationalist and just a laid-back guy who’s passionate about life.

J’A dore Magazine: Tell me a little about yourself.

Stuart McDonald: To give you the short, ‘Twitter’ version: I’m an up-and-coming writer committed to articulating truth to address the issues of today’s society and facilitate dialogue about race, religion and relationships. I’m an introverted extrovert, sometimes nerdy dork who always loves to eat and drink coffee. I love to edify, encourage and empower people to reach their God-given potential. I’m always the person asking the provocative questions and saying the things that no one else wanted to say just to get a response and start a conversation. There’s nothing I’m afraid to talk about and very little I am afraid to say.

What made you decided to start blogging?

I enjoyed writing in high school, but didn’t do it consistently once I left, so blogging was that avenue to keep me more consistent. It was initially started as more of a journal type thing, but it’s now grown into more of a conversation, which I much prefer.

Did you ever think your blog would be so popular?

I really didn’t. I feel like that’s a cliché, but it’s true. I started it just to get in the habit of writing more frequently and it just organically grew into what it is today. I have yet to have someone recognize me in public solely because of my blog.

If or when that happens, that will be one of those ‘Are you serious? Is this really my life?’ kind of moments.

You’ve made no secret about being a virgin. What do people say when they find out?

People are normally very surprised. (Honestly, I’m surprised when I find out that other people are virgins). They say I don’t ‘look or seem like a virgin,’ but I

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have yet to figure out what that really means. They then proceed to ask me all kinds of questions, normally beginning with, ‘Really?’ and continuing on to, ‘How do you do it?’ and ‘Why?’ and they might even say something like, ‘I wish I still was too.’ In the end, they’re normally very supportive and encouraging about my choice.

Those familiar with your blog know your reasons for staying abstinent, but for those who aren't, what are they?

I have yet to see sex outside of a marriage make any relationship any stronger, easier or less complicated. Every time sex enters a relationship that isn’t a marriage, it does nothing but make things worse. Yes, initially, the pleasure and satisfaction may be wonderful, but if we all did what felt good in the moment, we would get nothing significant done. I, personally, am not willing to sacrifice a few moments of pleasure, however good they may be, for the short and long term “side effects” that come with sexual involvement with someone who is not my wife. I also know, with near 100 percent certainty, that were I to have sex with someone, they would get pregnant, regardless of whatever kind of birth control they were on. I can’t tell you exactly why; it’s just something I know. And because I refuse to raise a child with someone who is not my wife, the only way to avoid that situation is to wait until I’m married before having sex. J

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To read the interview in its entirety, visit the J’Adore Web site at www.jadoremag.com.

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Watch this The capabilities of these space age watches are mind-blowing. Oh yeah, they tell time, too

words By: Robert J. Mair

The Times of Tech-Watches Not very long ago, it was said hi-tech wristwatches do everything but phone home. Well, that’s no longer the case. The latest generation of “tech-watches” features functions that are out of this world for the wrist, including “phoning home.”

1

2 1. LG GD910 Watch Phone 2. Phenom Dream 3. Sony MBW-100 Bluetooth Watch 4. Garmin Forerunner 405CX

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The LG GD910 Watch Phone offers 3G Internet access, a touch screen, built-in camera, video calls and serves as a music player. If you don’t want others listening in on your calls via the built-in speaker, there is also Bluetooth capability. LG describes the Watch Phone as “wearing the future on your wrist.” Unfortunately, this level of technology doesn’t come cheap. LG lists the GD910 at $2,299.

The Phenom Dream is a very sharp looking competitor to the LG Watch Phone and is being offered in the more affordable price range of $375. It should be noted that there is no 3G support for this model, however, if you aren’t planning to browse the Web from your watch phone, this is no big deal. The Dream features an external keypad, full color touch screen, MP3 and video player as well as a digital camera. USB connectivity and available 2GB memory space further distinguish this model. Phenom Communications has raised the bar with the Dream and its other two watch phone models, the Special OPS and Mi5.

The Sony MBW-100 Bluetooth Watch connects wirelessly with compatible Sony Ericson phones allowing you to monitor incoming calls, e-mails and textmessages, as well as control your phones music player. Unlike the LG, the MBW-100 does not have a speaker or microphone, so Bluetooth is required to realize its full potential. The Sony MBW-100 is actually made by watch giant Fossil and retails for about $399.

For techies on a budget, the ThinkGeek Video Watch plays full color video on its 128 x 128 pixel resolution screen. The Video Watch also displays bmp and jpeg images and plays MP3 and WMA files (up to eight hours music playback). Voice recording and playback is also supported via its built-in microphone. This feature-rich ThinkGeek Video Watch retails for only $99.

For those aspiring marathoners, Garmin and Nike each offer models to enrich your lap time. The Garmin Forerunner 405CX records where you run, time, pace, calories burned and heart rate. The Nike+ iPod Watch Remote also records time, distance and calories burned. Working in conjunction with your iPod, the Watch Remote allows you to control your music play back and workout features without having to access your player.

After reviewing these timepieces, it's evident the possibilities are endless depending on your needs, imagination and budget.

Until next time… J

smellgoods

words By: Robert J. Mair

For hip-hop celebrity colognes, it’s all in the packaging

In the world of fragrance, advertising, marketing and packaging are keys to a product’s success.

Each year, awards are granted by the Fragrance Foundation at the industry’s most prestigious event. For 2009, two of the top men’s fragrance awards were presented to colognes and perfumes branded by hip-hop royalty. 91X Rocawear, from the fashion label established by Jay-Z and Damon Dash, was awarded “Best Packaging.” The brushed metal look of the original 9IX container and the rich golden finish of the Limited Edition version were definitely standouts.

I Am King, marketed by Sean John Fragrances took the 2009 Fragrance of the Year honors. In 2007 Sean Combs Unforgivable tied for Fragrance of the Year with Terre d’Hermes. Unfortunately Diddy has not been having the same luck with his design and packaging. Sean Combs is being sued for the bottle design of his Unforgivable cologne. Tom Patti, a glass artist, claims his design was used without permission by Combs and is suing for trademark violations. The artist claims his design “Modulated Solar Airframe” was ripped off by Diddy.

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, well known for his bold presentation, introduced his fragrance entitled Power in November, 2009. The smoky glass bottle is appropriately masculine and is crowned by a silver top reportedly inspired by 50 Cent’s favorite Audemars Piguet watch. 50’s name is scripted across the top for a finishing touch.

Usher has definitely taken a fresh approach with the release of his latest USHER VIP fragrance. While his previous colognes Usher and Usher UR were a straightforward black and grey respectively, the new VIP bottle is a heavy crystal circular design resembling a fine cognac that is widely considered highly original and an overall well-designed piece.

With the economy moving along at a snail’s pace, it is essential for a fragrance to not only smell good but also have the presentation grab your attention in a major way. Evidently, some of the world’s greatest hip-hop and R&B entertainers got the memo. J

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Mr.Bradshaw

haute fashion

1 ‘Never miss an opportunity to make a statement!’

words by: L. Raquel Peterson images by: Steven Khan Hair/Makeup: Alex LaMarsh Stylist: Mr Bradshaw

Image 1: Leopard fingerless glove, "SERMONETA GLOVES" www.sermonetagloves.com Image 2: Geometric print romper, "SWEET LIKE HONIE" www.sweetlikehonie.com Image 3: Nude peacock gown, "ELLA ZAHLAN" www.ellazahlan.com Image 4: Beaded fringe bodysuit, gold head piece with feathers, "ELLA ZAHLAN" www.ellazahlan.com

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ou want a stylist who knows the fashion game, and schools top celebrities on how to dress for photo shoots and the biggest events the world has to offer?

Call on the always outspoken and brazen celebrity wardrobe stylist Mr. Bradshaw. Sure, you can go to his popular fashion

blog site at themrbradshaw.com, but why not have a sit-down and pick the creative mind of this self-proclaimed “couture junkie” as well? Here’s the interview where he talks about fashion must-haves, Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga and his racy life as a celebrity stylist and fashion editor.

What do you think makes your way of styling people stand out?

I’m definitely very eclectic when it comes to styling; my personal style is androgynous and I tend to throw that in there. I'm very fashion forward as I've been told many times in many outlets. Futuristic is another trait that I put into work with my styling. Basically, I set trends and watch them spread and that’s what I've been known to do.

I work very closely with designers and that's how I know what is going to be hot in 2010, ‘11, ‘12 and so forth. I implement those little aspects into what goes into my projects. I've been privileged enough to say it's been a success.

What are five items every woman needs in her wardrobe?

A pair of black pumps, accessories galore, a very specific cocktail dress, accenting belt and one designer bag.

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Does it have to be a particular bag?

It doesn’t have to be a designer brand, but every woman has to own at least one Chanel bag. It’s classic, timeless and it never goes out of style.

A nd the gents? What are five pieces every guy should own?

A pair of oxford shoes, a tailored suit, a nice watch, a unique fragrance and a good statement-making briefcase or messenger bag.

How can clothes and your fashion sense make a statement?

I'm all about first impressions so for me; picture yourself entering a room where no one knows your name and your outfit is so well put together that all heads and eyes are on you. When I walk into a room, I make sure people want to approach me. Clothes throw off energy, they throw off status and how approachable you are...you have to be careful

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2 what kind of statement you are trying to make. That way, you get that same energy turned right back to you.

What is your personal style?

I love androgynous wear for myself. I like pushing the boundaries. What looks so feminine for women could be so masculine for a guy.

What do you think is the biggest mistake people make when they are getting dressed or shopping?

Definitely over accessorizing; I guess people that are trying too hard. Keeping it simple and subtle is the way to go.

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How do you deal with someone you're styling and they try to modify what you do?

I've been privileged enough to work with some amazing personalities. They always request me, so they already know my history and body of work. That really hasn't happened to me yet. I can do what fits their body type. I try to make it a collaborating effort. I always have fittings with clients and incorporate their input and what route do they want to keep it in. They will say, "Use my flavor and add your flair to it." Trust and communication between the stylist and the client is key.

What would your dream project be? Who would you like to work with and style?

Oh my gosh, there are so many. I would love to work with Jennifer Lopez. I would also love to work with Victoria Beckham and someone like Lady Gaga because I see she gets ridiculed for the VMA outfit she wore.

It’s funny because I saw the whole head piece and said “I get it!”

Give us your theory on Lady Gaga. What was her statement at the VMA's? So many are still lost and confused, especially after the paparazzi performance covered in blood. What is your take on this?

She wants to portray a message every time. She awakes in the morning and says, “I feel like dressing like a goose,” so she will wear a feathered head dress with broad shoulders. She pushes the envelope when it comes to futuristic wear. Also, the gays influence her completely. I don’t believe that it’s a secret society in the music industry; there is no such thing. Entertainers are the most real people you will ever meet, however, when it comes from her VMA performance, she wants to be like Gia. Gia was this model in the 80s and was the hottest thing out. She was so gorgeous and her time was so forward. She wants to be the one for years down the line, like wearing such things as the head piece in front of thousands of viewers. It’s only going to get crazier from here on out.

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Let’s talk about two other big style icons, Beyoncé and Rihanna.

I actually met Beyoncé’s stylist at a Ritz afterparty in LA. He and I have the same visual when it comes to fashion. She has a mother lode of influences, has her own line and other stuff. I always read up on what’s next and that’s what the client wants. As a stylist, you always want to be one step ahead. I would like to work with her.

When it comes to Rihanna, the rocker-edgy look works so well on her. The stylist on set for that was right on the money. She’s what I would be if I was a woman. I recently did a photo shoot with Meagan Goode. I used the rocker edge that everyone loves, but I twisted it with a glam side. Immediately after the photos released, everyone was talking about it. It was posted on all the blog sites.

Do you feel straight men lock themselves in a certain style because it would make people question their sexuality?

I feel like every man has their style that they are comfortable with. I work with a tremendous amount of heterosexual males who say, “Hey I don't know what I’m doing and I wouldn't know what to do if you weren’t here.” I think that they are just afraid because they don't know how to put things together their own selves.

Do you feel people get stuck in a style rut?

Yes, because people wear what is comfortable to them. Some are more set on comfort than style, but I’m the complete opposite; I never miss an opportunity to make a statement. J

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Besides logging on to Mr. Bradshaw’s web site at www.themrbradshaw.com, read this entire interview on www.jadoremag.com.

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images by: Stephanie Matthews

www.stephaniematthewsphotography.dphoto.com Stylist: Janelle Faison Designer: Jacinta Ligon (www.jacintaligon.com) Hair: Artra Edwards Make-Up: Mann at Work FACE (NY) Model: Naoumie Ebanga, courtesy of The Mattison Agency

patent dress $1,000.00

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black dress with square shoulders, custom fit, $1200

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corset price upon request custom fit

white Jacket with cord, $800.00 patent skirt, $200.00

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French

images by: You Bin Fashion Editor: Andre Austin Inspector French: Wendell Lissimore@ Red NYC *Special Thanks to George Brown@Red NYC

Only eight hours to solve the case...

Can the Inspector do it before tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big event?

(Left) Hat: Bailey of Hollywood Trench Coat: Calvin Klein Shirt: JLindeberg Gloves: Calvin Klein (above) Blazer: Polo Ralph Lauren Pocket Square: Polo Ralph Lauren T-Shirt: Hanes Jeans: The Proportion of Blu Watch: G Shock

Shirt/Tie: Ted Baker Cardigan: Fred Perry Jeans: The Proportion of Blu Watch: G Shock Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo

Trench Coat: Calvin Klein Shirt/Bow Tie: Polo Ralph Lauren Pants: H&M Gloves: LaCrasia Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo

Blazer: Perry Ellis Shirt/Tie: TopMan Slacks: Fred Perry Pocket Square: Polo Ralph Lauren

Hat: Bailey of Hollywood Trench Coat: Calvin Klein Shirt/Bow Tie: Polo Ralph Lauren Pants: H&M Gloves: LaCrasia

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flawless v i c t o r y

words By: Loc Da'Borg

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Everything old is new again

love games. This is inherent in this column, and the fact that if you’re reading it faithfully means you do, too. As the New Year starts to become more familiar to us, those games that we enjoyed last year and the year before inspire incredible games with more twists and innovative elements added to the point new experiences come alive, whether it's through our joy pad or Wiimote. It’s time to raise a glass of champagne after we’ve won a round or beaten a level… and then smash it on our heads. Yep, these games have us going crazy, so what’s a few stitches?

Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars – Jan. 26

Platform: Wii Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom is a gamer’s dream come true. Culling characters from Capcom’s rich gaming history such as Darkstalkers, Street Fighter, Mega Man and more as well as Tatsunoko’s characters (don’t worry if you’ve never heard of them as they’re a Japanese company) from its rich anime history such as Casshan. The name of the game is creating your own tag-team amongst the games numerous characters and winning by any button necessary. True to Capcom tradition, look forward to sharp visuals, insane combos, assists and Variable Combinations which combine the abilities of your two-member tag-team to unleash a serious case of whoop-ass

Mass Effect 2 – Jan. 26

Platform: Xbox 360 Where in the galaxy are the humans? This is one of the questions you must answer as you progress through the game while leading your diverse crew of rogues, as Commander Shepard, the valiant hero from the first Mass Effect. The mission set forth is one not only fraught with danger from outside forces, but also from within. You must answer of the question of where your crew’s loyalty lies and whether they’re able to work as a team and utilize their capabilities to the extent the mission requires. Featuring gorgeous graphics, top notch voice acting and a story worthy of a sci-fi novel, Mass Effect 2 looks to attain classic status as did its predecessor.

No More Heroes 2: Desperate Struggle – Jan. 28 Platform: Wii Famed assassin, Travis Touchdown, must once again endeavor to become the number one assassin in the world. Felling foes with his beam katana (looks like a light saber though) and his punk ass attitude, anti-hero having self, you’ll be working your way up the line of assassins until you get to the end boss, Assassin #1. Oh, and did I tell you? You get to wield a two beam katana this time around. I’ll just let you see for yourself how the boss battles play out.

Dante’s Inferno – Feb. 9 Platform: Xbox 360, PS3 Inspiration for this game was obviously taken from “The Divine Comedy” but this is a straight up action game with some inspired (and eye-sweetening) visuals which help to advance the story of Dante and his journey through the nine rings of Hell. Each ring is designed to not only look different but be different in the enemies and strategies used to defeat each level within each ring. With gameplay reminiscent of Devil May Cry and God of War, this is looking to be a must-buy before Cupid shoots a heart-shaped arrow into your derriere and you spend all of your money.

tidbits: Hideo Kojima, of Metal Gear Solid and Castlevania fame, has made a public promise that a sequel to his cult hit Zone of the Enders or ZOE will be made, but when is anyone’s question including his. He has the new Metal Gear Solid: Rising (for the Xbox 360 and PS3) on his schedule, as well as overseeing other games on other systems including the DSi and PSPgo.

BattleField: Bad Company 2 – March 2 Platform: Xbox 360, PS3 Imagine you’re in a state of war, where you are an endangered species. ‘B’ Company is back and the action is once again ratcheted up with you and your crew of soldiers waging vehicular survival, emptying clip after clip of ammo and all around kicking ass and taking names (or not taking names since they’ll be dead anyway) all in the name of completing your mission. Developer Digital Illusions is rocking the screen with some sweet visuals and the gameplay should be as tight, if not tighter, than the original.

Samurai Heroes – TBA 2010 Platform: PS3, Wii Making its first appearance on the PS3 and Wii, Samurai Heroes plunges you into 16th century Feudal Japan where your character will wage war to try and conquer all of the land of the rising sun. The action is fast and frantic, reminding one of the Devil May Cry series (which shares Hiroyuki Kobayashi as producer of this game). The game includes unlockable playable characters and the PS3 version will have online co-op. The art direction of this game is simply stellar.

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Sega has confirmed development of a high definition remake of the classic arcade game Daytona USA. No further details as of press time, however, the first arcade units can be expected to hit Japan next year. No confirmation of any home versions.

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Whatever they can do we can do…better?

ne thing we at J’Adore pride ourselves in knowing is what’s on the cutting edge of technology and imparting that knowledge onto you, our loyal readers. The consumer technology of today is far more advanced than what we had two years ago, or even this time last year. For this issue, we’ve rounded up two PCs and two Smart Phones that we feel lead the way into the future of computing and mobile communication. We’re just going to leave the choice up to you in what you’ll buy based on the feature sets of each piece of hardware. Whatever it is once you see the listing of similarities and differences below, you will advance in 2010 using some of this incredible gadgetry!

Sony Vaio L vs.

Gateway OneZX 6800 Series

The Similarities

The Vaio and OneZX are all-in-one PCs with multi-touch touch screen capabilities with Microsoft’s Windows 7 Home Premium as the operating system of choice. Both feature 1TB HDD (that’s 1000 Gigabytes) for storage and a 64 GB SSD for the OS and applications which frees up CPU processing power. To add, they boast 1GB of Video RAM as well as 1080p resolution via their respective touch screen displays. The PC displays can double as HDTVs (boxed with remote controls) and they both feature software to take advantage of the multi-touch screen and built-in HD webcams. Lastly, both utilize WiFi 802.11b/g/n.

The Differences The Vaio and OneZX are all-in-one PCs with multi-touch touch screen capabilities with Microsoft’s Windows 7 Home Premium as the operating system of choice. Both feature 1TB HDD (that’s 1000 Gigabytes) for storage and a 64 GB SSD for the OS and applications which frees up CPU processing power. To add, they boast 1GB of Video RAM as well as 1080p resolution via their respective touch screen dis plays. The PC displays can double as HDTVs (boxed with remote controls) and they both feature software to take advantage of the multi-touch screen and built-in HD webcams. Lastly, both utilize WiFi 802.11b/g/n.

Sony Vaio L Gateway One ZX 6800 Series

Intel® Core™ 2 Quad 2.66 GHz Processor Q8400S Intel® Core™ 2 Quad 2.33 GHz Processor Q8200S 24” HD Widescreen LCD 23” Multitouch HD Widescreeen Ultrabright™ LCD 5x Blu-ray BD-R/RE Drive 8x DVD SuperMulti Optical drive Installed: 6GB DDR2 RAM Installed: 8GB DDR3 RAM NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 240M GPU ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 4670 GPU

There are other features such as the number of USB 2.0 ports (Gateway’s 6 to Sony’s 5) and there are models in each series that go to the low end of their spectrum such as dual-core processors utilizing 4GB of RAM. Perhaps the deciding factor for our readers is price. The Gateway AIO PC is priced at $1,399 while the Sony AIO is running at $1,999. Keep in mind these are the highest “spec’d” models of what each company offers.

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Tidbits: HTC HD2 vs. Nokia N900

The Similarities

Aside from them both being cell phones with 5 MP cameras, 800 x 480 resolution, WiFi IEEE 802.11 b/g and the ability to go onto social networking sites, they couldn’t be more different in features and specifications

The Differences HTC HD2 Nokia N900 1 GHz Snapdragon CPU ARM Cortex-A8 600 MHz Windows® Mobile 6.5 Maemo 5 by Mozilla 4.3” display 3.5” display 512 MB ROM, 256 MB RAM 32 GB on-board storage w/ additional

microSD card slot for up to 48 GB Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery Nokia BL-5J 1320 mAh battery Opera Mobile™ browser Mozilla Maemo browser (full Web experience)

Could the next-generation Nintendo DS be powered by NVIDIA’s Tegra? Engadget reports at press time multiple rumors from multiple sources suggesting that NVIDIA is working with Nintendo on a Hi-Def Nintendo DS that’s not only backwards compatible (with existing DS software cartridges), but also ups the ante in the graphics and processing departments. It’s slated to be release in late 2010. We’ll all see if this stacks up or falls down like a house of cards sometime later this year.

guys and

Just as both phones have touch screens, the N900 brandishes the slide out QWERTY keyboard. They both have similar talk time battery life with the HD2 moderately beating out the N900 by about 30 minutes (give or take 10). The HD2 also has an optional mount for when you’re on the road to put on your vehicle’s dashboard to act as your GPS. The N900 offers the full Web experience in a cell phone and not the mobile version like the HD2 (and most other cell phones). Both seem to also have full features such as widgets and other applications as well as 3G (3.5 G for the HD2) and HSPA support. The phones are available in Europe at this time but should be unveiled and available here in the States relatively soon.

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The top

sports moments of the 21st century's first decade words By: Noah Barrett

T

he first decade to ever start with the number 20 has come to an end. So to celebrate the conclusion of the last 10 years and a look ahead to 2010, J’Adore has the top 30 (20+10, get it?) moments of the decade that will be what we consider timeless. Play ball!

30

Local fan Steve Bartman (the poor dude with the headphones and glasses) and the equally shameful Cubs pitching staff cost Chicago the ‘03 National League Champion Series against the eventual world champion Florida Marlins.

29

Jimmie Johnson wins his record 4th consecutive NASCAR Chase Championship in 2009 and is named AP Athlete of the Year (although many sports figures and fans hated by debating the “Athlete” designation.)

28

Syracuse tops U Conn in a Big East record six overtimes, 127-117, on March 12, 2009. Millions of basketball fans were extremely grateful that it was a nationally televised game.

27

September 25, 2006, a full year after Hurricane Katrina, the New Orleans Saints return home to the Superdome and pummel the Atlanta Falcons 23-3.

26

During the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Vince Carter performs the immortal "Le Dunk De La Mort" (Dunk of Death) over 7'-2" French center Frederic Weis.

USA goes on to win the gold.

25

December 7, 2007, undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. KO's then undefeated Ricky Hatton in the 10th round with a mean left hook.

24

Mario Chalmers nails a game tying 3-pointer with 2.1 seconds to force overtime in the 2008 NCAA Championship game. His Kansas Jayhawks would finish off the Memphis Tigers 75-68.

23

Michael Jordan, while with the Washington Wizards, plays his last game in the NBA, a 107-87 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on April 16, 2003.

22

During the 2008 Eastern Conference First Round, the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls compete in an epic 7-game series with seven total overtimes. Chicago won Game 6 in three overtimes, but Boston won the series 109-99.

21

Rafael Nadal defeats Roger Federer to win the 2009 Australian Open. It marked his first career hard court grand slam and solidified him as the number one tennis player in the world.

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20

One day after losing his father in 2003, Packers QB Brett Favre paid tribute by destroying the Oakland Raiders 417. His final stats: 399 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions.

19

At the 2002 Wimbledon, Serena Williams dominates her sister, Venus Williams 6-4, 6-3, to establish herself as the face of Women’s Tennis.

18

Lance Armstrong wins his 7th Tour De France in 2005.

17

17

Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal begin the Lakers 2k Dynasty by rallying against the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 7 of the 2000 Western Conference Finals. The 15-point deficit marked the biggest 4th quarter comeback in any Game 7 history.

16

The 2006 World Cup was notorious mainly for the head butt from France's Zinedine Zidane to Italy's Marco Materazzi, who allegedly made derogatory remarks about Zidane’s family during play. Italy wound up winning 5-3.

15

In the time it takes you to read this, Usain Bolt has already broken three sprinting World Records in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

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The Boston Red Sox win their first World Series since 1918 by sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals in 2004.

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13

Super Bowl XLI in 2007 marked the first NFL world championship between two black head coaches, Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts and Lovie Smith of the Chicago Bears. Dungy and his number one offense outmuscled Smith and his number one defense, 29-17.

12

The Patriots came into Super Bowl XXXVI in 2001 as the underdog of underdogs. They beat the vaunted St Louis Rams 20-17 on a last second field goal to begin their run of domination in the decade.

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6

Tiger Woods wins an emotional 2006 British Open, just two months after his father Earl passed away from cancer.

10

The unheralded Boise State Broncos defeat the highly touted Oklahoma Sooners in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, 4342, after two trick plays in overtime. After scoring the winning two-point conversion, Boise’s running back Ian Johnson immediately proposes to his girlfriend, team cheerleader Chrissy Popadics just a few feet from the end zone. Luckily, she said yes.

9

Vince Young throws for 267 yards, rushes for 200 yards and scores three touchdowns as the Texas Longhorns outlast the USC Trojans 41-38 in the 2006 Rose Bowl.

Young leads a Longhorn squad that trailed 38-26 with only 6 minutes to play.

8

Tiger Woods, on one knee after having successful surgery in April 2008, returned in June to win the US Open.

He says it was arguably his greatest win ever, which is saying a lot from the greatest golfer of all time.

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7

January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant erupts for 81 points, the second highest total ever, in a 122-104 Lakers victory over the Toronto Raptors.

6

Santonio Holmes makes a ridiculous back of the end zone catch with time winding down to hand Pittsburgh its 6th title in Super Bowl XLIII as the Steelers beat the Arizona Cardinals 27-23 in 2009. Also in the same game, the Steelers’ James Harrison return of an interception 100 yards was the longest play in Super Bowl history.

5

Months after the 9/11 attack in 2001, the New York Yankees were the official face and hope for the state of New York. In an emotional World Series, the Yankees fell just short to the Arizona Diamondbacks in game 7, thanks to Luis Gonzalez' bloop single off of the legendary closer Mariano Rivera.

4

Michael Phelps wins a record eight gold medals at the 2008 Olympics, breaking seven world records in the process.

3

The Boston Red Sox erase a 3-0 series deficit and beat the New York Yankees 4 games to 3 in the 2004 ALCS. It is the first time in baseball history that a team has rallied from being down 0-3.

2

The New England Patriots trademarked the phrase “190.” Too bad they went 18-1, with their only loss being Super Bowl XLII to the New York Giants, 17-14. David Tyree was the hero, making an improbable catch using his helmet as a prop to secure the win.

1

Barry Bonds breaks Hank Aaron’s career home run record by hitting number 756 on August 8, 2007. Bonds would also break the single season home run record with 73 in 2001. Even though Bonds' records have a cloud of doubt hanging over his head, these accomplishments are still the greatest feats to happen this decade.

We are sure there are arguably more, but hey, you can’t deny that these 30 instances are truly unforgettable. Strap your seatbelts for what the next decade has in store! J

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autotech for t h e n e w y e a r They’re not flying yet, but 2010 autos still boast some inventive, yet useful bells and whistles

words by: Dennis Malcolm Byron

What will they think of next when it comes to automobiles? Short of giving them the ability to coast through the skies and authenticate The Jetsons’ prophecy, there are a few 2010 models I have reviewed this year that boast amenities that successfully combine showy gadgetry with practicality especially for the driver.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Head-Up Display While the site of a brand new, Velocity Yellow Tintcoat 2010 Corvette Convertible is enough to get sports car lovers to salivate, I loved the Head Up Display feature drivers are blessed with. Important readouts like the engine rpm, gauge for oil pressure and fuel, and my favorite, the MPH, are projected on the left corner of the windshield like a hologram. Anyone with a heavy foot should adore this subtle, yet necessary reminder that there actually is a speed limit to follow. . www.chevrolet.com

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h Remote Touch The “L” in Lexus has customarily stood for luxury, so the anticipation of experiencing a new state-of-the-art enhancement in the new 2010 hybrid luxury SUV was not in vain, and the Remote Touch control was certainly a standout. This ergonomically designed mechanism based on the center console just inches south of the gear shift made an easy transition for anyone computer savvy – it is a mouse-like shift that allows you to utilize the various entertainment, climate and navigation systems with surfing ease. To add, all of its user-friendly functions can be seen virtually at eye level on an eight-inch VGA display screen for viewing ease. Now that’s charm for the arm! www.lexus.com

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Technology Package The progression of Korean automaker Hyundai has been tremendous, especially since many of their high-end models are now considered major competitors of luxury brands like Mercedes and BMW. The striking Hyundai Genesis upscale sedan certainly confirms that this automaker is taking their growth and award-winning workmanship seriously inside and out. To fully appreciate the latest in gadgetry and state-of-the-art driving enhancements, prospective car buyers should strongly consider the Technology Package that boasts Smart cruise control, Xenon HID, a rearview camera, a navigation system with 40-gig hard drive, Bluetooth hands-free with display and a multimedia knob controller in the center console that releases the sonic bliss of the Lexicon 17-speaker 7.1 discrete audio system. With too many other features to list here, visit the Hyundai website and see what all of the hype…and North American Car of the Year honors are all about! www.hyundaiusa.com

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The Next Generation

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There are certainly great models from previous years that require little change according to the hearts of diehard fans regardless of how much better new models handle or how slicker the design is. Well addressing those loyalists, J’Adore is happy to feature a few trucks that have made the driving experience that much more enjoyable and resourceful in models that received rave reviews in the past without making dramatic alterations.

Mentioning change, for the first time, we are showing our appreciation for those who have a family to bus, but want to do it in style and innovation. Now you can be responsible and cool.

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2010 Lincoln Navigator When you think of the Navigator, you think of an upscale, large wide-body SUV, but it’s so much more–especially in this new model year. You’ll have confidence in being able to tow those heavy loads with the 5.4-liter V8 engine on your side, which also is Flex Fuel capable. Running at 300 hp at 365 lb-ft of torque, the Navigator is also equipped with three valves per cylinder and variable cam timing to bring balance to all that power while it’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Of course, what is a luxury SUV like the Navigator without its features and technologies? To help give you peace of mind while driving, this SUV comes with a Personal Safety System, LATCH (Lowers Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, Advance Trac with RSC and standard Trailer Sway Control (for those times you’re towing something on the interstate), MyKey (allowing drivers to limit top speed and radio volume, encourage seat belt usage, etc.), and Safety Canopy and Side Impact air bags. Other features include SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), SYNC, Sirius Satellite Radio, illuminated entry with approach lamps, rear seat DVD system and Power Code remote start. Ranging between $54,400 - $59,465, this Navigator is a luxury vessel that won’t put too much hurt on the bank account if a luxurious vehicle of this magnitude is on your list.

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2010 Infiniti EX Luxury cars are a dime a dozen, but what they boast is what makes them special and unique. There’s an extensive feature list in this new Infiniti EX but let’s get to heart of the EX: the engine. It’s got a 3.5-literV6 engine capable of 297 hp that’s mated to a standard automatic five-speed transmission. With that said, you know it’ll be a fast one. Now, onto the features because this one is packed to the gills!

The safety features are numerous and it seems no stone has been left unturned with Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Infiniti’s own Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), Side impact supplemental airbags, Traction Control System (TCS) and a Vehicle Security System (VSS) with remote keyless entry and Infiniti Vehicle Immobilizer System. You get all of that along with a standard rearview monitor, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, an analog clock, heated front seats and 7” color display with Infiniti Controller. Not to mention, this EX has a host of aesthetics to boost up the style points like the LED taillights, chrome-finished dual exhaust tips, Inifiniti L-shaped headlights and fog lights, and a number of other optional features.

Look for it to cost you between $33,800 and $37,400 between its four models.

2010 Toyota Sienna Many of us have families and we strive to keep them safe at all times while taking them to and from school or soccer practice, Wal-Mart, Target or whatever with interior space to spare. In a first for J’Adore, we’re looking at a mini-van, the Toyota Sienna. With a MPG rating of 23 (FWD) and 21 (AWD) and a standard DOHC 3.5-liter V6 married to a five-speed automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) running at 266 hp at 245 lb.-ft. of torque and a Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, this mini-van is anything but mini.

In the feature column, there’s a lot to like with Toyota’s STAR Safety System thqt encompasses a standard four-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with added Traction Control. There is also the LATCH system in the second row seating, keyless entry system, deluxe AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, front and rear air conditioning, 12-volt power outlets and more. Plus, the Sienna comes in CE, LE, XLE and Limited options ranging from around $25,300 to the Limited with all the bells and whistles for $38,665 with AWD. The bottom line is it’s up to you regarding how much swagger you want with your fam van.

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Be sure to look for more J’Adore car reviews online at jadoremag.com.

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Top 5 MediaThemed Movies Quiz Show

words By: Loc Da'Borg Good Morning, Vietnam

This film is based on the true story of Adrian Cronauer, who is played with gusto and sincerity by Robin Williams. It touches and evokes memories, latent and haunting, of a time period rife with restlessness during the Vietnam War. Brought in to give the troops something to laugh about, disc jockey Cronauer keeps the troops in light spirits with his broadcasts while the fleeting danger of the Viet Cong surrounds him. Also starring Forrest Whitaker, JT Walsh and Bruno Kirby.

Ever wanted to be a contestant on a quiz show like Jeopardy?

In the 1950s, the most popular quiz show of its time was Twenty-One and the machinations that made its cogs go around were oiled in deception.

Based on the true story, we become secondary witnesses to the scandal that university professor Charles Van Doren (Ralph Fiennes) was in cahoots with the NBC network to dazzle audiences with his charisma and dashing good looks, in effect, selling a fantasy. When contestant Herbert Stempel (John Turturro) accuses the show of fraud, a veritable avalanche begins one of the biggest scandals in television history. Also starring Rob Morrow, and Hank Azaria.

Talk to Me

Network Though it aired in 1976, this Oscarwinning film is considered to have foretold the outrageous inbreeding of entertainment and broadcast news, two sides of the same televised coin.

Howard Beale, played by Peter Finch who won an Oscar for this role, is a veteran news anchor who is told he’s being fired and then blows up on air asking his viewers to shout the now famous line: “I’m mad as hell and I’m not gonna take it anymore!” The powerful script was penned

by Paddy Cheyefsky, directed by Sidney Lumet and also starred Faye Dunaway, Ned Beatty, Robert Duvall and William Holden

This has to be one of actor Don Cheadle’s best roles and certainly one of his most poignant and powerful.

Cheadle takes command of the role of real-life radio personality Ralph Waldo “Petey” Greene Jr. The iconic and controversial Washington, D.C.-based DJ was the voice of the 1960s. Though an ex-con, “Petey” quickly rises to popularity and “tells it like it is,” raising the voice of the black community to be heard, which no doubt causes strife for his station’s owner E.G. Sonderling (Martin Sheen).

Chewetel Ejiofor, Taraji P. Henson, Mike Epps and Cedric the Entertainer give stellar supporting performances in this great slice of real-life.

Tidbits:

Howard Stern’s Private Parts The shock jock, the king of all media himself, Howard Stern! But who is the man behind “Fartman” and the naked or near naked women that continue to come onto his show? This was an honest self-portrayal by Stern to show that he, too, was human and not immune to the slings and arrows of outrageous, angst-filled, neurotic fortune. See this, for it’s probably the only time you’ll see Howard Stern as himself and not the brash shock jock version.

Recently Released...

The Book of Eli – Jan. 15 Denzel Washington has portrayed many things, but action hero wasn’t one of them until now. The Book of Eli is a story set in a post-apocalyptic future where Washington’s character is in possession of a book which he believes will bring a certain knowledge and redemption to the now hostile, inhospitable land that was once the USA. Legion – Jan. 22 Denzel Washington has portrayed many things, but action hero wasn’t one of them until now. The Book of Eli is a story set in a post-apocalyptic future where Washington’s character is in possession of a book which he believes will bring a certain knowledge and redemption to the now hostile, inhospitable land that was once the USA The Wolfman – Feb. 12 Take one part origin story and one part homage to the original Wolfman (which starred a young Michael Landon), Benicio Del Toro headlines this tale of a nobleman who harbors a mysterious secret, the Victorian hamlet that is the home of a string of horrific murders and the Scotland Yard inspector (Hugo Weaving) determined to find the culprit. Also starring Anthony Hopkins and Emily Blunt.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief – Feb. 12 Based on the first in a series of novels, the film follows the adventures of young Percy Jackson, a child whom, it turns out, is the descendent of a Greek deity, must stop a supernatural battle between deities of the Greek mythos.

Directed by Chris Columbus, Pierce Brosnan and Uma Thurman also star.

Clash of the Titans – March 25 He was the son of Zeus but Perseus was raised by humans and now he must look inside to his own power and save not only the day but also the life of Princess Andromeda. A remake of the original classic 1981 film, it stars Liam Neeson, Sam Worthington, Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton and Alexa Davalos.

looking for revenge on her mother’s killer. While it’s been talked about for • Looks like not only is Sinestro (at press time, reported to be played by years, it looks like this storyline might actually come to fruition.

Watchmen’s Jackie Earle Haley) going to be the villain of the forthcoming • The Deadpool of X-Men Origins: Wolverine will not be the Deadpool in the Green Lantern movie starring Ryan Reynolds as the title character, but the coming stand-alone movie. According to producer Lauren Shuler Donner, Big Boy Scout himself, Superman, will be making a cameo appearance.

Deadpool, played again by Ryan Reynolds (yes the same actor who is The movie has a U.S. release date of Dec. 17, 2010. headlining DC’s Green Lantern film) will not have anything to do with the • Remember Kill Bill Vols. 1 and 2? Well it seems that the house of “The portrayal seen in last year’s X-Men spinoff which starred Hugh Jackman as Bride” Quentin Tarantino built will resurrect with a Vol. 3 sometime in Wolverine and delved into his origin. There is no anticipated release date 2014. Tarantino and “The Bride” herself, Uma Thurman, have both said yet,as there are no writers attached to the film as of press time. that the story will continue 10 years later with the daughter of Copperhead  j’adore jadoremag.com

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Until The End of Time Honoring our pioneers of media

words by: N. ALI EARLY

E

very destination has a beginning. Whether it is meant to reach the end of the road or continue the journey into the stratosphere, it can only be determined by our Higher Power.

As African-American journalists, our beginnings are humble as much as they are far-fetched. Seriously. Who would have thought as the enslaved Frederick Douglas–taught the alphabet against the law of the land–would go on to provide inspiration and hope through his writings for centuries on end?

Rebellious, powerful and profound, without our humble beginnings, the magazine that you hold in your hands would be lifeless.

Ed Bradley. Oprah Winfrey. Gordon Parks. Ralph “Petey” Green…

A man who exuded a sense of style we all came to love and respect, Big Ed decided to be himself even in the face of adversity.

For his trouble, he became the first African-American journalist to chop it up with the Prez. Unsurprisingly, he went on to become one of the most influential television broadcasters of all time, regardless of race. Jazzy as he wanted to be, CBS looked to him, as we all did, to deliver the news on politics, sports, lifestyle and cuisine.

And we loved every minute of it.

The most influential woman in the world? Just ask President Barack Obama. Without Ms. Winfrey’s support, he would have missed out on a cool million votes. Her voice is easily as powerful as any political figure and she amazingly uses that power to help others. She’s been called “the greatest black philanthropist in American history” for doing her part in making the world a better

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place. She arrived in New Orleans even before the last “leader of the free world” to provide support and aid, and a school for underprivileged girls in Africa. Proof positive that “O” puts her money where her mouth is.

Ironically, Gordon Parks' legacy swelled when he became a staff photographer and writer for LIFE Magazine. Destiny for him, or maybe the other way around, there was no doubt he would soar.

His most popular images always painted the proverbial picture and told the stories that were considered taboo. So when he transitioned into film, it felt natural and right. Who else could have pulled Shaft off and instigated an era of Blaxploitation films but him? He’d hinted at it all along.

Drug addict? Alcoholic? Convict? Petey Green will take all of those and raise you one: “Broadcasting genius.” As a matter of fact, let Howard Stern do it. Born to a con and a prostitute, he found his way into trouble and talked his way right out of it.

Loquacious as they come, Ralph, Mr. Green was years–maybe decades–ahead of his time. He was the voice of the people, said it how they wanted to hear it and found his heaven on earth. Before the liquor took him, he put a choke hold on the nation’s capitol and they honored him with the biggest departure in the city for anyone not elected to office.

So go some of the brilliant media legends of our time. Yes, there are many more to honor from the past, present and in the future.

God willing, our humble beginnings will carry us until the end of time. J

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