The IDEAL Magazine Winter 2011-2012 Issue

LETTER FROM EDITOR

Editor-in-ChiEf: Neeta Wooten Copy Editor: Stephanie Walker Art dirECtor: Shamel Washington EditoriAl AssistAnt: DeShauna Dennis EditoriAl AssistAnt: Louel Valentine intErn: Paige Porter photogrAphErs Omri Malul Sisilia Piring Shamel Washington Phillip Cooke Reggie Campbell Contributors Stephen Gledhill Kalif Durham Rachel McGoldrick Justin Mabriet Melody Simpson Enero McKee Jamilla Thomas Tamika Williams Paige Robinson Trevis Cage Stephanie Walker Tara Denman Natalie Rose Campbell

Nyla Tate Zoe Costello Keiona Joseph Marvin Church Christine Choi Terrea Everett Patricia Ambroise Shakeba Darns Kristine Rangel Natalie Patrice Alia Davis Joshua Rohrer

spECiAl thAnks Cherly Martin, Elise Koseff, Charlie Guadano, Craig Langley, Liset Moreno, Lisa Humphrey, Maggie Schuster, Linda Madison, Joseph Babineaux, John Pitek, Roger Karshan, Cecile Cross-Plummer, Woody Wilson, Natasha Brown, Kenneth “KAS” Flannagan, Lynette Voss-Harper, Jasper and The Dirty Bar, Ernest Dukes, Eljay Deshields, Vincent Cirrincione Associates, Heidi Wilson, David J. Orr, Yolonda Coleman publishEr Ideal PR Media Washington, DC www.idealpr.com

It is an honor to pay tribute to a show that has had such an impact on its viewers. I owe this idea in part to one of the characters from the show, Tray Chaney (“Poot”).

While working on the Fall 2011 issue in mid August 2011, I spoke to Tray about his new music, his recently published book and two films he had just completed. We discussed placing him in the Fall issue, but did not want to rush his story. In thinking of the best way to highlight his accomplishments starting from The Wire, I looked back and realized it had been almost 10 years since The Wire first aired. Wow! I thought, I wonder how being on the show has affected their lives 10 years later.

At my high school graduation, the question, “Where do you think you will be 10 years from now,” was a memorable question floating around. And to honor such a memorable show on HBO, The Wire, we highlight some of the actors through an editorial spread to honor the 10-year anniversary called “10 Years Later, Now and Then.” On one side of the page we see them symbolizing where it all began, and on the other side of the page, in the same environment symbolizes their character polished and evolved into a mature, productive person in society. We share in their own words brief thoughts about the show.

Addtionally in the Winter 2011/2012 issue, Young Black Hollywood gets its shine with actress Paige Hurd glammed up for an editorial spread “HollyHood In The City.” We ask you to “Pay Attention” to up and coming actress Tiffany Black as well as new music favorite H.Wood City. We place singer and actress D. Woods “Front-N-Center” along with Felicia Pride and her literary dedication to Hip-Hop through words and arts.

Winter is filled with holidays from December through February, so we share with you how to be beautiful in style with stories on how to Look As Good As The Food You Eat, A Holiday Gift Guide and we even help the ladies figure out their weave and wig personal style.

We give you “One To Grow On” with an insightful story on perseverance about the mother of singer/actor Tyrese, and why singers Ginuwine and rapper Sole support “A Night of Pink Hope.” And as always, no issue would be complete without our “IDEAL 10,” highlighting 10 fabulous ideas, concepts, people or products...for the holiday we give you our gift guide and top water brands.

We invite you to share your thoughts on the new “look” of the magazine and hope you enjoy this issue as well as this winter.

neeta Wooten editor@idealpr.com 2 //

Table of Contents Winter 2011-2012 front and Center

beauty beaux

P.14 The Wire, 10 Years Later p.36 100 Life Lessons From Hip Hop p.38 D. Woods - Her Stage

P.40 Look As Good As The Food You Eat p.42 Beautiful on a Budget p.43 To Weave or To Wig

pay Attention

P.06 Paige Hurd - is HollyHood In the City

P.12 H Wood - The Good Guy p.13 Who is Tiffany Black

the idEAl 10 P.44 Celebrity Water p.46 Holiday Gift Guide

one 2 grow on P.48 A Promise Kept p.50 A Night of Pink Hope

EDITORIAL SPREAD PAIGE HURD

HollyHood in the City

d Hurd capture Actress Paige Beauty Shop our hearts in pt atifah and ke with Queen L tes Everybody Ha in g in h g u la s u h down-to-eart Chris. She is a ho can be as teen actress w s they come, glamourous a st. al to the fulle yet keeps it re is a young Although she e she still has th woman now, girl-heart. sweetest little dhill : stephen gle Photographer hotography.com www.foreverp durham Stylist: kalif drick rachel MCgol ssociates Hair/Make Up: eA on ci cent Cirrin Manager: Vin

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PAY ATTENTION

written by Melody simpson image by symone brooks

H.WOODCITY

the new guy Singer, rapper and songwriter “H.WoodCity” recently released his debut EP, “The New Guy” which has music fans excited. Unlike many independent artists today, H.WoodCity not only blends pop and hip hop, but is not about the gimmick. He makes music from the heart and not for the fame. He has performed with A Tribe Called Quest and Big Daddy Kane to name a few... and he is only 21 years old! If what he has accomplished so far is any indication as to what we can look forward to, he has got a bright future ahead of him.

H.WoodCity says of the gimmicks today, “A lot of people try to mimic what they hear on the radio. Why would I want to sound like Drake when Drake is already on the radio doing his thing? I was listening to a song the other day, thinking, ‘This dope, when did Drake record this?’ My friend said, ‘This isn’t Drake.’ But it sounded exactly like Drake. Drake has a formula and a lot of people try to mimic it. I try to stay as original as possible and talk about what people aren’t talking about... my own stories.”

As for the name? While growing up in Orange County, no one in his circle had Hollywood ambitions. So when he began his music career at 16 and started performing with big groups like A Tribe Called Quest, people in the neighborhood started calling him Hollywood. “But as I got older, I realized that it may come across as arrogant which I didn’t like, so I shortened it to HWood. And for search engine purposes, I made it H.WoodCity.”

H.WoodCity calls the EP a fun upbeat project and notes his collaboration with Raven Goodwin (Good Luck Charlie / Huge) for the track, “No Good For Me.” He says, “I’ve known Raven for five years now and four years ago, she put a freestyle on her 12 //

MacBook. It was tight. It was poetic. It stuck with me, so I instantly thought of her.”

During his free time, you can find him listening to Anita Baker, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill or hanging out with friends Kyle Massey and Lil Mama. “But I don’t use the word friend lightly though. When I say friend, I really mean that.” H.WoodCity is just as passionate about his friends as he is his music, and that is to be commended. He has talent and heart which is rare. Find out for yourself by picking up his new EP, “The New Guy.” You can follow H.WoodCity on Twitter at twitter.com/H.WoodCity

written by Justin Mabrie photo by lamont pierre

PAY ATTENTION TIFFANY BLACK

Why Not tiffany black

With a down South upbringing, Tiffany Black is making a statement and putting in the work toward becoming successful in Hollywood.

Ignited by her passion for acting, Tiffany took control of her career by writing and direction projects for herself.

After living in Los Angeles for four years, Tiffany understands that being an artist and having a great love for her craft involves more input than just waiting for the next audition. Proactively, Tiffany considers herself to be one: not to wait, but CREATE. Portraying and voicing the thoughts every actor experiences, Tiffany wrote her first stage play in 2009, I’m An Actor, They Don’t Get It. Having showcased this piece in the NAACP Theater Festival, Tiffany has received nothing short of rave reviews. As she candidly expressed, the NAACP audience does not lie.

She appreciates the inviting and encouraging energy she receives each year. This will be her third year premiering another one of her original plays put on by her company Tiffany Classics, LLC. I’ve seen a lot of people come and go. Be about the business of getting it done. It’s not about booking the job and getting comfortable.

Always have to stay alert and active with your craft. – Tiffany Black When asked her motto on pursuing her dream, Tiffany emphatically said, WHY NOT? She states, “When it comes to doing something, and fears & obstacles get in the way, or just doubt… think why not me? Why cant this happen for me?” If she can’t come up with a reason for why not, her next phrase is JUST DO IT. The two attitudes of “Why Not,” and “Just Do It,” are evident in Tiffany’s success thus far.

Not only has she survived living in Hollywood for four years, she has also created opportunities for herself that will propel her name and talent as far she reaches. Most recently, Tiffany Black has showcased her play, For Change in the 2011 NAACP Theatre Festival. Keep your eyes open for Tiffany Black.

Website: www.tiffanysblack.com Youtube: Tiffany Black TV \\ 13

WINTER 2011-2012

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By Neeta Wooten

It is rare that something impacts society as a whole, influencing dialect, perceptions, perspective and lifestyles. HBO’s creation of The Wire in 2002 was the beginning of what many never saw coming. Nearly 10-years later, although no longer in production, the show is still in airing and stays on the verbal circuits creating colorful conversation. The Wire, an HBO original dramatic series portrays the drug trade, crime and the affects its has on inner-city living based on true lives and stories out of Baltimore, Maryland.

And while many consider the show a dramatic series mostly about crime, it presents layers of how we coexist in the same environment, but have different perspectives and influences. In five seasons and 60 episodes, The Wire presented a storyline of education worth a lifetime.

Why is this show so special? That is a great question with an answer that is both simple and complex at the same time. To those familiar with the real life characters, streets and everyday surroundings of Baltimore directly relate, and appreciated the authenticity of the storylines helped to propel this show Yet the locals only account for a small percentage of the millions of viewers and fans. There was something magical about the show that captivated the attention and interests of people from all walks of life. Through that magic, The Wire ignites the dancing of our emotions, which dangles in anticipation while tickling our intellect...all at the same time.

The blend of a dynamic director, insightful producers,

outstanding casting and unsuspecting storylines helped to make propelled this show to make an eternal impact on its viewers. Never officially winning any awards, The Wire holds street credibility and respect in the hearts and minds of its viewers yielding an eternal award. With a large African-American cast, The Wire reopened the trend to address actors by their character name, something not seen in such domination since The Cosby Show and Martin TV shows in the 80’s and early 90’s. For a publicist, they want you to know the actor by their real name, but for a show, to see the actor and address them by that character, well, that speaks volumes in itself. While this offends some actors, those who truly understand the act is a complement to their work receive it as a compliment regarding their talent. A compliment that is as fresh today as it was 10-years ago.

The Wire was appreciated for shying away from big-named actors, and chose actors because they portrayed the roles well, not because they were already famous. The Wire provided many of its characters an opportunity to develop solid acting careers. And for some, The Wire is the reason they have undeniable successful and in-demand careers today.

It would be difficult to capture the full essence of how this show has impacted society in one article. Universities such as Harvard, Duke, UC-Berkley, and Middlebury found the need to structure a full semester class around the show. Instead, we present to you our tribute to the evolution The Wire provided for some of the characters involved. Allowing a reflection of the growth of their character and themselves as a person since the inception of the show, we present an editorial tribute with some of the characters from the show 10-years later...

The Wire: Now and Then. \\ 15

tristAn (MICHAEL)

thEn: “The show gave a harsh, but chilling truth to the people.

It gave an uncensored look on the urban decay of America; how it continues, how it feeds the government, and how it becomes exploited by the media.” noW: “Being around all those beautiful individuals taught me many things. They’ve all taught me things that have helped me grow into the man I am today. One thing I apply to my everyday life is something Ed Burns said to me: ‘Less Is More.’ A simple but powerful statement.”

Photographer: SISILIA PIRING Stylist: ZOE COSTELLO Make-up: NATALIE ROSE CAMPBELL Assistant Make-up: TERREA EVERETT Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH 3-Piece Suit: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION Shirt: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION Pocket Square: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION Bowtie: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION Suit styled by: WOODY WILSON Hoody - KINETIX Jeans - TYSEN MAXWELL URBAN COUTURE 16 //

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hAssAn (WEE-BEY) thEn: “It’ll be my word that finds you” - Wee-Bey

noW: “I have a better work ethic I think due to being part of the show... had to be disciplined to be around all that talent.”

Photographer: SHAMEL WASHINGTON Stylist: TARA DENMAN Make-Up: PATRICIA AMBROISE Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH Suit: PATRICK KENNEDY Shirt: BLUE POINT COLLAR BY CANALI Bow tie: B. OYAMA Pocket square: MARK AUSTIN FOR BESPOKE COUTURE

Shoes: JEAN BAPTISTE RAUTUREAU

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Julito (NAMOND)

thEn: “Namond changed the dynamic of the The Wire because he showed that there are some kids in the hood that are pushed to be something they don’t wanna be. They are forced through pressure of life to do things they rather not do... There’s a lot of kids in these neighborhoods that would much rather be artists or lawyers but all they know and see are the struggles of life. noW: “The show has affected society greatly in shining light on what’s r eally going on out here and showing that it’s deeper then the media and press make it seem to be. No matter how harsh it may be, people need to open their eyes on what’s really going on in these hoods, police departments, political offices, etc.”

Photographer: SHAMEL WASHINGTON Stylist: TARA DENMAN Make-up: SHAKEBA DARNS Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH Wool Cap: GIOVANNIO Blazer: B. OYAMA Beige Slacks: B. OYAMA Pocket Square: B. OYAMA Shirt: PATRICK KENNEDY Tie: PATRICK KENNEDY Shoes: ALLEN EDMONDS

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Jd (BODIE)

thEn: “F*ck Marlo and whoever think it’s right to treat people like this” -Bodie noW: The show affected the country by giving a unique and honest portrayal of that city’s struggle and the struggle in places like that by extension.”

Photographer: SHAMEL WASHINGTON Stylist: TARA DENMAN Make-up: KRISTINE RANGEL Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH 3-Piece Suit: CANALI Shirt: PATRICK KENNEDY Pocket Square: MARK AUSTIN FOR BESPOKE COUTURE Scarf: B. OYAMA Shoes: ALLEN EDMONDS

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trAy (POOT)

thEn: “WORLD GOING ONE WAY, PEOPLE ANOTHER YO” - Poot noW: “One thing I have learned is that you have to make choices in the world today especially as a young person, and The Wire was just a reminder to me that if you don’t choose the right course in life you will end up either in jail or dead.”

Photographer: OMRI MALUL Stylist: KEIONA “KJAE” JOSEPH Make-up: NATALIE P. Suit: “KAS COLLECTION” BY KENNY FLANNAGAN

Shirt: KAS COLLECTION Pocket Square: KAS COLLECTION Tie: KAS COLLECTION

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AnWAn (SLIM CHARLES) thEn: “If its a lie, we fight on that lie, but we gotta fight.”

- Slim Charles noW: “I’ve learned a few things; I learned that you always have to study and be willing to learn and try new things. The show exposed me to new types of people. I mean, I was brought up in the hood, but I was able to see that everyone’s hood is not the same. I was able to see another side, and it taught me how to respect differences.”

Photographer: OMRI MALUL Stylist: KEIONA “KJAE” JOSEPH Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH Suit: CUSTOM BY J. JAMES Shirt: CUSTOM BY J. JAMES

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MElVin (BERNARD)

thEn: My character changed the dynamics of the show because he got everyone [in his crew] locked up, due to a mistake he made buying the cell phones. noW: What I learned from being on The Wire is the power of the people and fans. It was the fans that kept the show alive and is still continuing to keep it alive. We became a big family on the show and we will always support each other. I learned to never give up because I started on the show as a extra and then later on auditioned 14 times before landed the role of Bernard.

Photographer: SISILIA PIRING Shoot Coordinator: JOSHUA ROHRER Stylist: JORDAN SWAIN Make-up: CHRISTINE CHOI Assistant Make-Up: TERREA EVERETT Barber: CHARLES L. HENDERSON Suit: EK QUALITY HAUSE Tie: EK QUALITY HAUSE Shirt: EK QUALITY HAUSE

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kWAME (MONK)

thEn: “Nice Dolphin N*gga” - Monk

noW: “It [The Wire] gave me more insight to what was going on around me, and made me want to try and make a difference, by joining gang prevention programs for kids, and helping out the community as much as i could, sometimes when your close to a situation you cant see the problems/ issues until you take a step back.”

Photographer: SISILIA PIRING Shoot Coordinator: JOSHUA ROHRER Stylist: JORDAN SWAIN Make-up: CHRISTINE CHOI Assistant Make-Up: TERREA EVERETT Suit: EK QUALITY HAUSE Tie: EK QUALITY HAUSE

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riChArd (SHAMROCK)

thEn: “Shamrock added the business aspect as well as comedy to the show. From teaching the Barksdale crew the Robert rules of order to making people laugh on the show.” noW: “Personally i learned that everybody is a Star,all we have to do is turn on our lights and shine.I learned that no matter where you live,how old you are or even how much acting experience you have, if something is for you- it’s for you. I also learned that I can produce and write great films as well. I am currently finishing my first script. It’s a paranormal movie based on the life of my grandmother and the house I inherited called “911 N. Carrollton Avenue.”

Photographer: OMRI MALUL Stylist: KEIONA “KJAE” JOSEPH Assistant: ALIA DAVIS Make-up: NATALIE PATRICE Tie: KAS COLLECTION Pocket Square: KAS COLLECTION 3 Piece Suit: CUSTOM BY J. JAMES

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brAndon fobbs (FRUIT)

thEn: The Wire showed us all how life doesn’t consist of good guys and bad guys, just people whom are all capable of good and evil. noW: “ I spoke to Ed Burns one time while on the set of the show, and he broke down the structure of a story to me in a real quick but intricate way that made me need to know more. And so from there, I know that no matter what happens in the decision making process of me getting a part or not in this industry, I will be able to create content for myself.

And once you have content, actually, I’ll say once you have quality content, then you already have 80-90% of the game Won. Will and Drive to get it distributed is the other ten.”

Photographer: SISILIA PIRING Stylist: ZOE COSTELLO Make-up: NATALIE ROSE CAMPBELL Assistant Make-Up: TERREA EVERETT Groomer: MARVIN CHURCH 3-Piece Suit: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION

Shirt: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION Pocket square: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION

Tie: WOODY WILSON COLLECTION STREET LOOK

Jacket: WILL-I-AM Black Hoody: WILL-I-AM Jeans: TYSEN MAXWELL

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written by Enero Mckee written Enero Udofi Mckee artwork by by Aniekan a

100 Life Lesson From Hip-Hop

fEliCiA pridE’s book The Message: 100 Life Lessons from Hip-

Hop’s Greatest Songs is about the growing fraternity of the hip-hop nation, incorporating its soundtrack into everyday life.

It is for music fans and hip-hop heads, as well as self-helpappreciatists looking for that motivational shot in the arm. We could use the love, considering the way hip-hop has been living lately, which is to say quite large. Like other multinational monoliths, some say the culture has lost its way in this new millennium, embracing materialism when we should all really be ringing the alarm on far more important things.

Weaving through a gallery of dope hip hop themed paintings, cyphers discussing Mos Def’s lyrical evolution and young hipster’s promoting “vybing” and networking, I got a chance to sit down with Felcia. I asked Felcia what was her inspiration in creating this book.

“Well, I had an epiphany one day. I was fresh out of grad school. I went to grad school to write meanwhile living in New York. One day I’m sitting on the train thinking “I’m broke; I’m working at a job I thought I was going to be happy with. I’m not happy. All I really want to do is writing, but I don’t know how to connect the dots. I’m listening to Buggin Out by A Tribe Called Quest.” There is a line by Phife that goes “Riding on the train with no dough SUCKS.” It was that line, although insignificant to some, that would be the spark that Felicia needed to come up with concept of her book. This concept was to bridge some of hip hop realest lyrics into real life lessons and become The Message: 100 Life 36 //

Lessons from Hip-Hop’s Greatest Songs. Felicia expounded by saying how as a writer she respected the creative imagery brought to life by such artists as Ghostface and Jay Electronica.

Unlike a lot of hip hop contemporaries, Felicia feels optimistic about where hip hop is going. To get a feel for what Message: 100 Life Lessons from Hip-Hop’s Greatest Songs is really about here is an excerpt: Where I’m From Jay-z “What do you think about The Wire?”

That’s the first question fired my way when I tell people that I’m from Baldamore in my hometown accent. That is, if I don’t get the look of pity that is usually followed by “I’m sorry to hear that.”

Don’t shoot me. I actually don’t watch the show. Not because it’s a raw and perhaps honest homage to the drug infestation of Charm City, but because I don’t have HBO. Even if I’m honest about my ignorance of “the best show on TV,” folks are thirsty to know if Bulletmore is really as criminally minded as it’s portrayed on television.

Yes and no.

Here’s the “no” side. The relationship between home and hip-hop is a bond that is hard to break. It’s from hip-hop that I learned to be proud of where I’m from despite my hometown’s national reputation. B-more raised my mother and my father, my cousins, and my aunts and uncles. I was born in Baltimore and spent my formative years living, growing, and developing in the city’s surrounding areas. It is a chunky slice of who I am.

And it motivated me to be who I am today.

Superficially speaking, I learned many things from Baltimore: Don’t hang around the parking lot after the club. Folks really do pop trunks and grab tools to settle beefs. Don’t stand around a fight waiting to be stabbed-- it really does happen.

Getting your hair done weekly is crucial to your womanhood.

And there’s nothing wrong with a little neon green or orange in one’s wardrobe.

I spent many Sundays cruising Druid Hill Park trying to get guys’ phone numbers. My cousin and I would then head over to Eutaw Street for a chicken box and a half-and-half--a toothdecaying, sugary mix of iced tea and lemonade. I love Old Bay seasoning, use it in my fried chicken, and do eat the yellow “mustard” in steamed crabs. If you throw on club music, our homegrown genre, I will turn into another woman. The music’s bass will make me convulse. Don’t be frightened. I’m just dancing, B-more-style.

Here’s the “yes” part. Charm City has swallowed too many of my family members whole. Its daily news coverage always seems to include a murder. In this way Baltimore is like many places across the country, but because it’s where I’m from, death hits home like Barry Bonds. Jay-Z’s “Where I’m From” is an extended shout-out to his Brooklyn. Over a nasty beat that makes you squint your eyes while bobbing your head, Jay brought his borough front and center, reppin’ BK to the fullest, putting his hood on the map, and illuminating vivid details of a place where “ain’t nothin’ nice.”

Jay doesn’t reside in Marcy Projects anymore. I left Baltimore in 2001. I had to leave to live. To dream. In Baltimore I stopped growing. I stopped caring. I wanted more, like African-Americans who left the rural South for Northern jobs in the 1800s.

Many times we have to leave our hometowns to achieve our dreams. We have to leave to go to school. We have to leave for better opportunities. And very often the world wants us to forget about “back home.” If there is anything that hip-hop has shown, it’s that where we’re from will always be a part of us, whether you visit your block monthly or you haven’t been home to your West Indian island in five years. You can keep it alive by representing lovely.

Representing, however, isn’t just throwing your hands in the air and waving them like you just don’t care when the club DJ shout-outs your city. Nor does it require you to go to great lengths to prove that your hood is still in you. It’s unnecessary and silly to prove one’s Caribbeanness, innercityness, or suburbanness.

Representing lovely is being in a position to help those “back home.” I’m writing to get to that place. And maybe one day I’ll create a “Where I’m From” in book form for Baltimore. The Wire is only a small part of my birthplace’s story.

From the book The Message: 100 Life Lessons from Hip-Hop’s Greatest Songs by Felicia Pride. Copyright c 2007. Published and reprinted by arrangement with Thunder’s Mouth Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group (www.perseusbooks.com). All rights reserved.

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WINTER 2011-2012

D. Woods

HER STAGE

After the roller coaster ride with Danity Kane, D. Woods has turned her talents in a different direction. While her turn to acting may be news to her music fans, D. (born Wanita Denise) has been acting since she was a very young age.

“I’ve been acting since I was little faking like I was sick to get out of going to school, lol.” In fact, her first professional role was at the tender age of six in the August Wilson production “Fences.” In her pre DK years, D. Woods appeared in several off Broadway theater productions and had an internship with Spike Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Production Company.

Currently, D. Woods is working on the stage project “The Devil is Sexy.” She plays the character Shayla.

The play takes a look at how our choices and things we involve ourselves in effect the paths our lives take.

Usually, we choose what is “Sexy.” D. Woods was drawn to this musical because of its non-traditional factor. Always one to stand out, D. chose this stage play in part due to its message vs. what the media would expect her to take on. Unlike many singers who struggle to transition between the arts, for D. Woods the process is natural. She has been trained in all forms of the performing arts and truly enjoys being on stage. Prior to joining Danity Kane, she majored in musical theater at New York University earning her B.F.A. D. Woods stays true to her passion and goal, which she said, “is to go as far as God allows me to take it and continue to challenge myself and do ground-breaking, memorable performances on stage, film or television.”

Don’t worry music fans; D. Woods has not given up on music. You can download her new solo project “The Gray Area” currently on I-Tunes.

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written by stephanie Walker images by ish holmes

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BEAUTY BEAUX

written by neeta Wooten

WINTER 2011-2012

Look as good as you eat Look as good as the food you are eating during the holidays and all winter when you pair the right outfit and make up to match your favorite food

Look cool in Tracy Reese eating a slice triple chocolate mouse cake while flashing your Yves Saint Laurant nail polish

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Make eating olives look super chic as you strut into the cafe in your Jill Stuart attire while batting those olive shaded eyes.

Look radiant in your red Chado Ralph Rucci red outfit at the dinner party paired with your red Chanel lipstick while eating the fresh cranberries from the decked-out holiday table spread

Black is seductive, especially while in Michael Kors, licking the black dark chocolate cupcake frosting off of your MAC blackknight creamsheen lipstick

Be sassy in your Custo Barcelona while being sultry with the pecan pumpkin pie while your amazing smashbox blush attracts all of the attention.

Cherry Pie won’t be the only thing sweet when you pair Caroline Herrara with Clinique long-last gloss wear make up

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BEAUTY BEAUX

written by Jamilla thomas

WINTER 2011-2012

Beautiful on a Budget Who says you have to spend a lot to look hot? In today’s economy, getting the most for your buck is on the top of everyone’s list. If you are like most women, you spend hundreds of dollars on overpriced cosmetics and beauty products. We all know there is something extremely rewarding about saving a dollar here or there, and saving money on beauty products is even more amazing.

Although all products can’t be purchased at the drug store, there are some that can.

The basis of every beauty regimen is great facial products. Drug store facial products work just as well as their pricier counterparts. Cetaphil and Aveeno make excellent moisturizers for dry and sensitive skin. Our top picks are Cetaphil’s Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15 and Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30. Cetaphil’s moisturizer is great for everyday use and the SPF protection helps prevent premature aging.

It is fragrance free so it’s safe for those with sensitive skin. Aveeno’s moisturizer contains soy extract,which has been proven to help with uneven skin tone as well as fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains the SPF needed to prevent sun damage. If you are looking for a moisturizer that addresses the concerns of aging, we recommend Roc Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer, SPF 30. Roc contains retinoid, an important anti-aging ingredient. There is an abundance of scientific evidence citing their ability to smooth fine lines, fade age spots, and improve the general overall appearance of skin.

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Some of the best products to purchase from beauty supply stores are mascara, lipsticks, and eyeliners. These products have a short life span.

Eyeliners and lipsticks purchased from drug store are generally the same quality as their expensive department store counterparts.

There’s not much evidence that drug store mascara formulas are dramatically different from department store brands, so if you don’t want to spend much on mascara this is the option for you. I recommend Maybelline Lash Discovery and L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Full Definition Mascara for adding volume and definition. L’Oreal Full Definition Mascara has a thick brush, which is great for separating lashes.

Cover Girl Volume Exact is also great mascara that creates a lot of volume for limp lashes. If you’re looking for a lash treatment as well as mascara, Rimmel London Lash Accelerator is a terrific choice. It promotes lash growth while at the same time lengthening lashes.

Drug-store eyeliners are also a great alternative to department store eyeliners. If you are looking for a great crème liner comparable to M.A.C.’s fluidline, I recommend Maybelline New York Eye Studio lasting Drama Gel liner or L’Oreal Paris Hip Studio Secrets Professional Crème eyeliner. Cover Girl Perfect Point Plus eyeliner is a pencil liner that doesn’t smudge and has an intense color. It is easy to apply and gives you a smooth line. L’Oreal Paris Lineur Intense Felt Tip Liquid Liner is a great tool for creating a delicate line or a dramatic look.

When it comes to lipstick, the best drug-store lip colors are just as high-pigmented as department store brands. Drug store lipsticks also come in several ranges of shades to suit individual color preferences. Some of our favorites are Revlon Color burst lipstick, Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick and L’Oreal Colour Riche lipstick.

written by tamika Williams model: rochelle yanique

When to Weave and When to Wig

Women are always looking for a new way to re-invent themselves. For a lot of women, the initial step is to “change our hair”. In the past, this was not an easy task, but today women can easily achieve this goal with a vast amount of hair styling options. Women are starting to embrace more convenient hair styles rather than spending long hours under the dryer in crowded salons. The new trend in the beauty industry is the versatile use of weaves and wigs. Once upon a time, wigs were reserved for older women, and weaves were looked down upon. Today, you see women of all ages, social classes and ethnic backgrounds wearing both.

However, learning how to wear them well and appropriately, some say is an art. In fact, many women struggle on which option to select.

i hAd An opportunity to speak to Rochelle Yanique, who is an expert on wigs and weaves. She provided great tips to help avoid the trauma of bad wig and weave choices.First, you should know the difference between a weave and wig. A weave is sewn onto a braid (directly on your hair) and a wig is actually sewn onto a cap that you place over your hair and can remove as quickly as taking off a hat. When opting for a sew-in weave, be mindful of the texture of your natural hair, as this is important when selecting the type of hair you will use for your sew-in. You want your weave to easily blend in with your natural hair. Rochelle recommends Indian Remy hair for those with thin or silky texture hair and the Brazilian hair for those with coarser hair. She says that matching courser hair with the Indian Remy hair can cause you to use excessive amounts of heat on your natural hair, which can cause damage. For those who are thinking of going with a wig, Rochelle recommends that you go with a more natural looking wig. Avoid synthetic wigs as they can look worn in a short period of time.

If you select to have your weave or wig customized, Rochelle states, “spend the money and get the good hair.” This will definitely help you save money in the long run and preserve your style. Also, be mindful of the climate that you live in because it can have a dramatic effect on your hair. During more humid times of the year, Rochelle recommends that you go with a

more curly or wavy pattern weave. Weaves and wigs are protective hair styles that promote hair growth. If you are planning to go natural, these styles should highly be considered.

Another key component to consider before selecting a weave or wig is maintenance. Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize! It is important to keep your natural hair moisturized while wearing a weave or wig. This step is important because it maintains healthy hair. In the morning, stay away from using too much oil and hair spray on your hair, because it causes build up and weighs it down. Consider sleeping with a satin cap at night, which will also lock in the moisture.

Also consider how long you plan to wear your weave or wig.

Weaves can last up to two months and wigs up to six months.

However, please remember that a wig needs to be placed on and removed everyday, whereas a weave is sewn directly onto the hair and is permanent until you cut it out. If you are interested in adding some volume or length to your hair, Rochelle suggests using clip on extensions. If you want more versatile hair styles, consider selecting a wig as with weaves you are locked into that style until you decide to take it out. Whether you decide to go with a weave or wig, you always want to choose something that looks more natural.

To learn more about Rochelle Yanique, to purchase her hair products, and customized wigs and weaves, visit her website at www.iamrochelle.com. \\ 43

THE IDEAL

written by Justin Mabrie

WINTER 2011-2012

drink like A Celebrity Water keeps your body hydrated and aids in having a glowing skin complexion. Many studies portray water to be vital to every daily diet, with recommendations of intake ranging from 8 glasses to 2 gallons a day. The pureness of water has become a heightened interest as brands market their water better over the next brand.

Distinguishing characteristics range from varied flavors, added antioxidants & elements and varied filtering processes.

Voss Water is considered to be pure artesian water that is bottled straight from its source in Norway. Recognized by the beauty of the bottle, VOSS water is naturally free of sodium and low in minerals.

Jessica Alba, Sicily SewellJohnson, Lindsay Lohan

sobe lifewater: a vitamin enhanced water beverage that gives you vitamins, antioxidants and herbal ingredients. It’s low in calories, has no artificial sweeteners and comes in delicious and unique flavor combinations. Naturally refreshing and thrilling!

KiKi Shepard, Dakota Fanning, Hillary Duff

fiJi Water: so much purer, healthier, and richer in taste than other bottled waters. FIJI water also states to have added silicon to manage the effects of aging, bicarbonate to maintain the body’s pH level and fluoride to help strengthen teeth.

Wayne Brady, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Michael Jai White

More and more people are shying away from the weekly sale brand of water and sticking to their preferred brand. Most celebrities are specific about which brands of water they prefer. As a celebrity, it is vital to stay fresh for the next photo shoot and hydrated for daily workouts to keep their bodies fit and camera ready. Whether a brand is their favorite by visual use or verbal endorsement, the sensation to drink the best water is continuously growing.

Celebrities are leading the way as a primary influence to our culture as it pertains to introducing the public to the best of the best.

While most of the people we spoke with favored Fiji water, here is a list of the top 10 waters and some of the celebrities who drink these brands. smart Water goes through a vapor distilling process to ensure the pureness of their water.

Additionally, each bottle has added electrolytes for quicker hydration.

Bill Bellamy, Khloe Kardashian Odom, Justin Bieber

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THE IDEAL

rEAl Water proclaims to be the only stabilized alkalized, negative ORP, antioxidant water on the market. REAL Water uses E2 technology to change the pH of their water from bad acidic pH to a better alkalized water.

Dawnn Lewis, Aisha Tyler, Julius Erving

kangen Water originates from studies done in Japan and considers their water to be alkalizing with a pH ranging from 8.5 – 9.5 and to be superior hydration for the body. Different from the aforementioned companies, Kangen is an in-home water machine that converts your tap water to ionized water.

Mari Morrow, Brad Pitt

Mountain Valley spring Water has twice been named best-tasting spring water in the world.

With a tagline, ‘A Single Source of Purity,’ Mountain Valley Spring Water adds ozone to their water to ensure there is no biological contamination.

Jackee’ Harry, Amy Poehler

iceland glacial Water is all natural spring water with a pH level of 8.88.

With a tagline, ‘Live Longer,’ Iceland Spring Water states their water comes from a pollution free environment in Iceland to validate their water is as pure as it gets.

Gabrielle Union, George Lopez, LeeAnn Rimes

WINTER 2011-2012

Arrowhead is considered to be 100% mountain spring water. Not only does their water endure a ten step quality & safe process, it is also packaged in recyclable bottles to add to the allure.

Harold Perrineau, Taylor Lautner, Vanessa Hudgens

Crystal geyser Alpine spring Water is 100 % natural spring water and takes pride that each bottled water comes from one, direct source to ensure better freshness, purity and taste.

Chico Benymon, Sarah Jessica Parker, Matthew McConaughey

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THE IDEAL

written by neeta Wooten

WINTER 2011-2012

Holiday Gift Guide Winter is a wonderful time of year. There are many dates between December and March where gift giving is a common tradition.

Sometimes finding the perfect gift for someone requires a little creativity and imagination. Don’t worry; we have taken care of that for you this year. We have listed some of our favorite gifts and compared them to celebrities that may remind you of your family or friends.

iRenew Bracelet. I’ve personally tried it and it works! Not only does it come in the adorable pink specifically designed to support breast cancer awareness, but you can get them in a variety of colors which makes this the perfect unisex gift for anyone.

The iRenew bracelet is a favorite for celebrities who are always on the go and like to stay fit...I guess that would be just about ALL of Hollywood. This is a great gift for friends who are athletic and physically active. Retail Price $19.99 www.irenew.com (Celebrities Nick Lache and Maria Menounos are fans)

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It is a great time to snag watches from Emporio Armani, one of my favorite brands for young men.

It is classic and powerful, with subtle elegance for male teen with major natural swag or the successful man who like to show subtle elegance. Originally close to $500, you can get this for more than half off at www.ecarmani.com for only $219.99. It’s a perfect gift for any male who doesn’t have to try hard to look good, but has a natural swag like brothers Kwame Boateng, Kwesi Boakye and Kofi Siriboe and Diggy Simmons.

Jessica London earmuffs, for all of your girls who wants to be warm and cute at the same time, and not hurt an animal in the process. At just $14.95 at www.onestopplus.com you can buy a pair for all of you girls who remind you of Kim Kardashian or Paris Hilton.

These great brown boots are a nice edition to a young lady’s closet. They retail for $63 on www.UniqueVintage.com (Robin will hook you up). They remind me of an item you would by for the coolest girl you know. It is a perfect gift for a girl that is laid back, super sweet and your kind-hearted girl-next-door type of female. A good buy for one whose elegance is simple like actress Angell Conwell and Joy Bryant.

THE IDEAL

The PlayStation3 is for the guy that can wine and dine you, but also play video games with you.

While he is popular with the ladies he is always a gentleman.

He is your friend that will fight for you without needing to know why, like 50 Cent and Omari Hardwick.

For that special little girl in your life, whether it be your little sister, niece, daughter, godchild or just a gift to a friend’s child, HelloHanna has brought back an old favorite with a new twist. I gave the princess Hanna to my friend’s daughter and she played with it all afternoon. They come with fashion accessory stickers and a unique stencil for endless designs and the dolls are 6 inches! Made from uncoatedrecyclable paper, it retails at 11.95 so you can buy the entire set!

Think Reginae Carter (Lil Wayne’s daughter) and Cori B. (Snoop Dogg’s daughter) www.HelloHanna.com

If you want to splurge on the girl who deserves it, then this bracelet by Rebecca (www.Littletreasury.com) is sure to get the thumbs up from the toughest gift critics. This is a perfect gift for the female who exudes confidence while being sexy and strong like Tami Roman and Keri Hilson.

The Wacom Inkling, roughly around $100 is for your creative artist type person who appreciates nice things. You can draw using the special writing pen on any surface you choose, then digitally transfer the image/ drawing to any computer for additional refinement (layers and all!). Think Pharell or Taraji P. Henson type...creative and PAID.

WINTER 2011-2012

The Kindle Fire is for your intelligent, yet cool friend: the one who always seems to be one step ahead of everyone else. Kindle, this device retails for about $199 at www.amazon.com, think Toni Braxton or Common.

I fell in love with the Bath and Body Works Lemon & Pomegranate hand sanitizer while at an event with Ideal PR correspondent Kierra. Buy the group of body wash ($12), Body Cream ($15) and the body splash (only $6.25 right now because it is half price at www.bathandbodyworks.com) for your girl on the go, on a mission to take over the world.

This fragrance says I am focused on business and feminine while doing so like Rihanna and Raven Symone.

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written by paige robinson

A Promise kept and a Will to Survive. tyrese’s Mother’s side

Many of us can probably reflect back on periods in our lives and wonder how it is we ever made it through. Some of us may be in the midst of a time where we are asking ourselves right now “how in the world will I ever see my way through this?” Well, I have had the honor and privilege of interviewing two amazing women that found each other to share with the world a powerful testimony; a story of pain, hopelessness, faith and triumph that stemmed from a passion to fulfill a devout promise coupled with a true will to survive.

oVEr 30 yEArs Ago Priscilla Gibson found herself as a young teenager gravitating to alcohol as a refuge from a life of poverty, loss and confusion. “I grew up in poverty with no money and barely food to eat”, Priscilla shared. As Priscilla got older the hold that alcohol had taken on her life became stronger and took her on a roller coaster ride of bad choices putting her in situations that included physical abuse, rape and depression. As her challenges grew so did her desperation to put down the alcohol.

When asked about living with her addiction and raising four children in the heart of Watts, Los Angeles, she replied, “All I can remember repeatedly saying to God was, once my life got straightened out in whatever way He could, I just asked that He use me to help others in the same situation.”

This was the beginning of the promise Priscilla vowed to keep with God. I asked Priscilla what were some of messages that she held close to her heart as she fought her way back to living sober and she replied, “You have to keep on going and give yourself forgiveness for the mistakes you have made. I didn’t have the strength to make the change on my own. No human power could have caused this change within me. He (God) had to bring me to my last bottle; to an extreme in order for me to get the lesson out of it. I made a promise to God that if He delivered me from this addiction, I would share my testimony with the world.” Priscilla Gibson, mother of four, one of which is famed singer and actor, Tyrese Gibson, was determined to keep that promise.

“I finally made the choice to put all my faith and trust in God, put down the bottle, began therapy, attended daily AA meetings all the while continuing to pray to God for strength.” Once she made felt she was finally on the right track, Priscilla had a hard time finding someone to help her get her story out there. “I don’t know how many people I reached out to, but it seemed like no one wanted to help me”, Priscilla shared. Priscilla got one step closer when she met author, entrepreneur and devout Christian, Ms. Cynthia Banks. “God provided by telling me that it was Cynthia that would help me, “ expressed Priscilla. After reading Cynthia’s book “Prayers for the Innocent”, Priscilla met Cynthia at a book signing and confessed, “Something happened when I looked at Cynthia and I swear God told me she was the one.” It was soon after that encounter that Banks agreed to take on her project under one condition. “Never lie to me and never pick up another drink again, and I will write

your story”, both Cynthia and Priscilla confirmed. Since that day Priscilla has kept not only her promise to God, but her requested promise to Cynthia.

“My story is one that speaks of God as my saving grace and the Devil is mad at me for putting my story out there.

Even though people told me no, I knew my story was meant to be told. ” Cynthia Banks played a critical role in helping Priscilla keep her promise and was so invested in Priscilla’s promise to God that she moved Priscilla into her house for the next seven months to “become this woman that was literally “Drunk for 27 Years””, Cynthia explained.

I asked owner and director of The Little Teapot Daycare Center, president of Banks Entertainment, LLC, and now bestselling author Cynthia Banks, what was it about Priscilla’s story that caused her to take on this project in such a personal way. She replied, “I love true stories and love them because they inspire people; especially those that inspire people to change their lives and send a message of survival. Priscilla thought God was not with her through all of the pain in her life and her story of finding out He was with her all along touched me. He was right there with her, keeping her, just so she could tell her story so the world can believe it.” She followed by stating, “Her story was so real to me. There is a part in the book where Priscilla gets hit in the head with the leg of an end table and when you look at the top of her forehead you see her scar. She became so real to me.

Her latter is far greater than what she went through.”

I concluded by asking Cynthia what she wanted viewers of her Texas stage play “DRUNK” and readers of her bestselling book “Drunk for 27 Years” to walk away feeling and she replied, “I want them to walk away with a feeling of hope. Sometimes that’s all they need. Hope and answers. There are a number of resources at the end of the book to help others get help, but above all I want them to understand the mere knowledge of God’s presence and His power in our lives; just a mustard seed of self-esteem.” Priscilla’s final message was “my survival and being sober is number one for me every day and I thank God for each day.” Priscilla’s promise continues to be fulfilled and Priscilla believes that if you “keep your hand in God’s hand, you will be alright”. Hearing Priscilla’s story was a true testimony of strength, support, love and victory. “Drunk for 27 Years” is a powerful testimony of a promise kept and true will to survive.

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WINTER 2011-2012

article by neeta Wooten images by reggie Campbell

A Night of Pink Hope The “We Believe Foundation” along with Robert Andrew Salons and Spas presented fACEs: A night of pink hope in Annapolis, Maryland. This event’s goal was to “give back hope to the community and bring a new voice to young women battling breast cancer!”

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The “We Believe Foundation” along with Robert Andrew Salons and Spas presented “FACES: A Night of Pink Hope” in Annapolis, Maryland. This event’s goal was to “give back hope to the community and bring a new voice to young women battling breast cancer!”

Hosted by the most fabulous Paul Wharton, make over guru/model coach and “6th Housewife” on Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of DC,” the event included a VIP cocktail hour, hors d’overes, silent auction, live auction, dance performances by the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders, the Baltimore Ravens Cheerleaders and a runway fashion show.

General Admission tickets were $100 with the VIP ticket donation set at $150 among of the VIP guest who supported this event were celebrity couple Ginuwine (singer) and wife Sole (rapper). The couple has personally been affected by cancer with the lost of Ginuwine’s mother and multiple members in Sole’s family as well.

Cloud 9 and Zweet Sportswear provided clothing for the event. The most special aspect about this runway show was that it not only included fashion models, but it also included cancer survivors and a short video snippet of them receiving pampering by Robert Andrew spa and salon while sharing their tear jerking stories. Each survivor received a standing ovation as they walked the runway. Courtney Quinn, a 14-yearold platform model diagnosed with brain cancer was strong and brave, despite the fact that she had much difficulty walking that night. She made the statement that her goal was to be strong enough to walk in the show next year. The other survivors who participated in the show as runway or platform models included Matt Miller, Loren Jewell, Audrey Anderson, Daniel Alderman (son of Sarah Miller), Tino Camarena, Amanda Brachovicz, Angela Smith, Julie Lanahan, Kristyna Partain, Rina Foote and Sarah Leming. Dripping in jewelry provided by Little Treasury along with Diamond Cutters of Maryland, Mijou Jewelry and Zachary’s Jewelers, the survivors looked like a million bucks, but the fact that they were actually there as survivors was priceless.

Themed with “what are your three words,” Paul Wharton stated that his 3 words are “Love, Forgiveness and Faith.” He placed singer Ginuwine on the spot by walking over to him on the front row of the show seating to ask him his 3 words.

Ginuwine stated without hesitation, “God is good.”

Well said Ginuwine...exactly the three words that wraps up the evening. Attendees walked away with an eco-friendly pink gift bag with tons of goodies, gift certificates and beauty products.

To learn more about Sarah Miller’s “ The We Believe Foundation” visit www.webelievefoundation.com

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