Signature J Magazine Fall

SIGNATURE J

7

HABITS FOR FINDING YOUR MANIFESTO MOJO TRUE SNEAKER-HEAD RELIGION

THE SIGNATURE STYLE

SEP/OCT/NOV 2010

THE SOUL OF YOUR BRAND DO YOU KNOW YOUR BRAND, REALLY?

PLUS VENUS WILLIAMS PORTIA KIRKLAND CHRISTIANE KING

O-BEE MICHAEL J BHATTI “A STUDENT OF THE MASTER”

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Signature J

Arts, Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine

A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER & FOUNDER

W

elcome to the Fall 2010 edition of Signature J Magazine. Embracing the essence of the season, we are pleased that you will join us as Signature J takes an introspective lifestyle journey. This issue features exciting individuals who creatively express their individuality and originality in their respective art. Their stories serve as inspiration to others who desire to articulate their creativity and talent in a remarkable fashion.

It is our hope that their artistic journey of resourcefulness and determination will enlighten and encourage you to seek and expand your individual expression. We are excited that you will be motivated mentally, physically and spiritually to make a positive difference in enriching the lives of others.

Signature J is proud to introduce Malinda J. Pernell as Editor-in-Chief. She is an experienced master wordsmith who innovatively uses the power of the word to affirmatively promote and uplift others. As a branding consultant, she has worked with numerous individuals and organizations to parlay their brand and message. We are thrilled that she embraces our mission and vision to celebrate artistic achievements as well as share our appreciation of cultural originality.

On behalf of the Signature J team, I thank each one of you for your support and continued readership. You are the intricate foundation of Signature J. Enjoy!

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"Lalique" Silk Chiffon and double face satin organza ruffled gown with two-toned organic rose detail at bodice.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

"Lili-rose" One-shoulder double face satin organza cocktail dress with organic rose detail at bodice.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

CONTRIBUTORS’ PAGE

Signature J ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER JANET CRUZ CO-PUBLISHER RODNEY CRUZ PRESIDENT MAC SHIELDS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MALINDA J. PERNELL EDITOR-AT-LARGE RICARDO CRUZ CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

TORRIA NORMAN LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER

JALA CRUZ CONTRIBUTORS Janet Cruz, Rod Cruz, Ronnie D. Banks, Jr. Crystal B. Smith, Kenneth Rush, Constance Janette H. Nichole Jelks, Malinda J. Pernell, Faith McKinney, Lamya Yasmin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS O-bee Photo page(56) by: Mathias Fossum O-bee Photo page(58) by: Bjorn Myreze Photos Courtesy of Lunacy in Los Angeles Photos Courtesy of Marcus B. Walter Photos Courtesy of Venus Williams Photos Courtesy of Leslie Wimes-Harris Photos Courtesy of Christiane King Photos Courtesy of Portia Kirkland Pride Photography

DISCLAIMER The views expressed by various contributors are not necessarily the views of the corporation or its owners; nor is the corporation or its owners liable for any typographical errors or omission contained herein.

Signature J Magazine 2010 All Rights Reserved

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CONTENTS FEATURES 34 David Bridgeforth Motivational Speaker

44 Fashion Designer Christiane King

56 A Student of The Master O-Bee Michael J Bhatti

68 From b-Girl to Earth Angel Portia Kirkland

72 The New Diva of Southern Soul Falisa JaNaye

76 Meet Leslie Wimes-Harris Founder, Women on the Move

CONTENTS

departments 2 PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE 5 CONTRIBUTORS’ PAGE INTERIOR DESIGN

10 Venus Williams & V-Starr BEAUTY

MIND, BODY & SOUL

26 7 Habits to Turbo-Charge Your Manifesting Power

FITNESS/HEALTH

24 Core of Your Workout FOOD

20 The Importance of Maintaining 38 Recipes Healthy Hair FASHION

BUSINESS

22 Lady L Designs

62 Customer Delight

30 True Sneaker-Head Religion

64 The Soul of Your Brand

54 Fashion Fever FASHION FINDS

37 Feminine Rocker 70 Signature Style

J

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V

INTERIOR DESIGN

enus Williams

V*STARR Designs

v

enus has a true, lifelong love for design and art. While this appreciation is innate, it was also cultivated by her extensive travels.

Having experienced a myriad of different cultures throughout the years, she has seen first-hand the influence global culture has had in fashion design, interior design and architecture. In addition to her work in interior design, Venus has a degree in fashion design and has developed her own ready to wear line called EleVen. In founding VStarr in 2002, Venus wanted something that would complement her career in tennis; tennis is everchanging, constantly challenging and is never dull. “Design mirrors tennis as you have to find a new design solution for every project, every new space, each new city, and understand the nuances of each client,” she notes. “The firm is a satisfying, creative outlet off the court and a passion to continue looking into the future.”

While tennis may be a solo sport, Venus has mastered the art of teamwork. V Starr prides itself on the ability of each of the firm’s designers to excel individually, as well as seamlessly collaborate on every project. And although there are

times when she is traveling, Venus is very much a hands-on presence at V Starr. You’ll always find her on the phone consulting with a client, looking over fabric swatches, comparing finishes or envisioning the newest project. Venus works to ensure the V Starr mission, philosophy, vision, values and design standards are delivered with the utmost integrity. Whether she is away at a tennis match or at a charity event, Venus truly breathes her championship performance on the court into the life of the company.

J The Signature of a Classic Lifestyle WWW.SIGNATUREJMAGAZINE.COM

BEAUTY

By Stylist Constance Janette

H

Healthy hair is a universal goal among women, but African American women, in particular, often have special and unique issues in maintaining healthy hair due mainly to the lack of hair care knowledge. Due to braids and weaves, some women forego frequent washing of their natural hair.

Also, the use of harsh hair products such as designing spritz and styling gel can be contributing factors to hinder regular hair maintenance.

hair loss as well. To maintain healthy hair growth in these cases, it is important to have deep conditioning treatments. This conditioning application will strip the medication from the hair.

Overprocessing is another detriment to healthy hair growth. Depending on the hair texture, a relaxer should only be applied every six to eight weeks or even longer for some hair types. If relaxers are applied more frequently than six to eight week increments, your hair may suffer major loss.

Hair is very delicate and fragile.

Imagine your hair as a rope, and as the rope unwinds, it moves up. That’s what happens when hair breaks. It breaks in an upward direction leaving those ends looking fray and dry. As it happens, your hair can become “seethrough hair.� For example, you may have shoulder-length hair. Yet, there is a noticeable point difference between healthy hair and hair that has been damaged. That is why a good haircut is necessary to get rid of the damaged ends.

Hair growth takes time. It takes about one year to get your hair back into the shape that it was in before the breakage occurred, and another year to become healthy.

It is important to make a commitment to yourself by maintaining healthy hair. This starts with good conditioning.

A hair professional is a person who should listen to your hair concerns.

Your professional should provide honest feedback regarding those concerns. A hair professional is not just concerned with styling hair, but will take the time to provide important information regarding the daily maintenance of your hair.

Some women also complain about the lack of hair growth. Well, unless there is some kind of medical condition, hair does not grow if the follicles have been damaged. If your hair is not conditioned on a regular basis, there may be concerns about hair growth.

For every one-inch of hair growth, there may be one-half inch or more of hair loss. As such, it gives an appear- When it comes to healthy hair, the ance of a lack of hair growth. More- better you look, the better you feel. over, new hair growth is at the root of your scalp.

The use of medications due to certain medical conditions may contribute to

FASHION

L Lady

Designs

At an early age, Lillian Roberts began collecting stones with unique shapes and beautiful exotic colors. Their color and texture fueled her excitement of a hobby that evolved into a tangible expression of creativity for others to experience.

As a young girl living in the Midwest, Lillian loved rich color combinations of stones. With Lady L Designs, she now shares that fascination through her pieces.

The principal features of the Lady L Designs collections include a wide grouping of stones, metals, woods, fabric and glass crystals. “I never know what a design will look like,” says Roberts.

“I simply collect a variety of items that excites me and let the creativity flow into each piece of jewelry.”

Each jewelry piece is handcrafted as she is inspired, making each piece exclusive and special.

"My work satisfies the various personal tastes and styles of women drawn to my work,” Roberts explains. “It is wonderful, and they (customers) seem to love it.”

As the mother of three adult children and a doting grandmother of two, Roberts spends much of her free time designing and creating Lady L Designs.

The spiritually-gifted designer intends to use her blessing of creativity to continue crafting distinctive jewelry to be enjoyed by others. It is her hope that Lady L Designs will encourage others to creatively express themselves as well.

Photo by Creative Lunacy in Los Angeles, CA.

FITNESS/HEALTH

THE CORE of Your Work Out

By Crystal B. Smith ACSM-Health Fitness Specialist

Do you have “stomach fat,” back fat, ab flab, love handles, a fat gut, Santa belly, or worse…does your waistline resemble someone at 6 months of pregnancy? If you said, “YES”, in your mind to any of those questions…you need to rethink the way you train your “core” when you work out. Many health concerns are associated with having an increased waistline. Training your core is a more effective way of slimming down your waist while improving your health and fitness at the same time. However, it is key to note that you cannot spot reduce to slim down your waist.

Training just abs alone does not mean you will get flat abs. You should have a balanced workout routine including cardio, resistance training, flexibility, and core along with eating a healthy diet.

diabetes, coronary heart disease, and high blood pressure increases. Even though you may have inherited most of those problems, genetically, you can still reduce the problems associated with those issues by maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly. One way to determine your health status is by measuring your waist-to-hip ratio. or Based on Wikipedia online, “ ( ) is the ratio of the circumference of the waist to that of the hips. It is calculated by measuring the smallest circumference of the natural waist, usually just above the belly button, and dividing by the hip circumference at its widest part of the buttocks or hip.

The ratio is applied both to women and men.”

Although you can take these measurements on your own with a tape measure, it is best to have an experienced, certified personal fitness trainer take your measurements for more accurate results.

If your waistline is greater than 35 inches as a woman and greater than 40 inches as a man, then you are at an increased risk and need to lose weight (American College of Sports Medicine 2001). An increased risk for WHR would be as follows (ACSM): ·

Men = WHR> 1.0

·

Women = WHR> 0.8

The core is considered one of the most important areas of the human body that needs to be trained a minimum of 2 to 3 days a week to see desired results.

It is the area that helps to support your spine and Your health is not just determined by the amount of consists of the following muscle groups: abdominalsfat that your body has but also by the location of rectus abdominus, internal and external obliques, where that body fat is stored. If the fat is stored transverse abdominus, and low back-erector spinae. primarily in the abdominal area (stomach region), then your risk of health problems such as obesity,

To work your core, here are the exercises needed to effectively work those muscles: ·

Rectus Abdominus-Crunch

·

Internal Obliques-Crossover Crunch

·

External Obliques-Medicine Ball Wood Chops

·

Transverse Abdominus-Plank

·

Erector Spinae-Low back extensions

So, how do you add these exercises to your current workout program? If you are a *beginner, start with 5-7 minutes of core work at 1 set x 10-20 reps up to a minute each, and rest for 45 seconds in between sets. If you are intermediate, start with 7-10 min, 2 sets x 15-20 reps, and rest for 35-45 seconds. Advanced people may perform 3-4 sets x 20-25 reps at 20-30 seconds, and rest 20-30 seconds between sets. It is best to train your core at the end of your workout since you do not want to fatigue your core before you train your body since you use your core to support your spine. You wouldn’t want to fatigue your low back if you plan to run 3 or more miles or if you plan to train your back or legs. If your core is exhausted, your other body groups may suffer and, in turn, be less effective. You may split up your core workout and perform different exercises, spread out over 3 days of the week. For example, you can train rectus and transverse abdominus on Monday, internal and external obliques on Wednesday, and low back on Friday. Sometimes as a beginner, it’s best to take it slow and work your way up. Once you have done this for about a month, then you might want to try all muscle groups on each day at 3 times per week as suggested. The key is to switch up the exercises and try new exercises within the same muscle group.

As you start your core training, try to write down your progress from start to finish. Begin by getting your baseline waist and hip measurements and waist to hip ratio. Track your progress by measuring yourself every 4 to 6 weeks and writing it down. You may even want to take front, side, and back photos of your waist and keep for motivation. Photos never lie! Then once you have developed a sound routine for yourself, set a goal of decreasing your waist to hip ratio, so that you’re not just focused on trying to get a six-pack. Keep your goals realistic and make it fun. You will be rockin’ a leaner midsection in no time!

MIND, BODY & SOUL

7

HABITS TO TURBO-CHARGE YOUR MANIFESTING POWER

By Faith McKinney

Years before anyone ever heard of the best selling book “ , I was searching for ways to bring good fortune and freedom into my life. I was on a quest to discover why life seemed so easy and effortless for some while so difficult and frustrating for others.

After years of studying many ancient schools of thought from all over the world, I’ve discovered 7 habits or traits that you can develop to add power to manifesting the life you want. They are especially helpful during tough economic times when even the smallest improvement is significant. Incorporate these traits and make them your own; they’ll show you the way to powerful manifesting.

. I know this sounds far-fetched but this may be the single most important key to manifesting what you want. Even if the world is crumbling around you, find one thing to think about that automatically makes your heart sing.

It may be a song that holds beautiful memories, the smell of your newborn grandchild, or a serene picture in a magazine that eases your mind. Whatever it is that makes you feel good, think on these things.

If your best friend or loving family member is a constant source of complaints about health problems, financial woes or marital disgruntlement, stay away! Just the act of listening to a barrage of complaints or simply lending an ear can derail your manifesting goals. When you listen to CNN, (Constantly Negative News) your mind soaks in that negative information and makes it your reality. When you feel the negativity coming, simply say, “I love you, and I know you are a strong loving soul who can handle anything that comes your way.” With that said- leave.

Get out and experience the world.

Accept an invitation, take a class, go to a museum, plant a garden, take a trip, answer the phone, read a book, volunteer… do something!

Manifesting is a two way street; your dreams need you to show some initiative. You must do something, anything, to move toward your manifesting goal.

You manifest the greatest gifts when you are doing something that you love.

Recognize good qualities that you like in others and incorporate those traits into your experience.

Manifesting what you think about is different from manifesting what you want. If you think about winning money because you need to catch up on rent, you are really thinking about lack of money. You can’t manifest money when you feel that you don’t have it.

You have to feel that you do have money in order to attract money. An exercise to improve your money manifesting is to carry a $100 bill in your wallet. When you go window shopping, you’ll have the money. Feel the feeling of being able to purchase the item that has your attention. If you “pretended” to spend that same $100.00 one thousand times, then you would have emotionally spent $100,000.00. That’s a lot of money!

Imagine what your life would be like when you have the life of your desire.

Don’t wait for something to happen before you begin really living your life. The time is now!

Pursue your dreams now by gathering information and talking to successful people. Make a vision board by placing photos of the life you want on a poster board. Notice the changes that occur in your world. There is never a perfect time to live your dreams. Start living the life of your dreams one day at a time, and I guarantee that your manifestations will become evident.

FASHION

T he Sneaker-H

Religion is a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe. For collectors, there is religion behind sneakers; therefore, we believe that sneakers make us fly, satisfied, and blissful. Be mindful that certain shoes stand for certain things or certain people. That is the amazing thing about the sneaker world; it is here to satisfy everyone. People from all different communities show where they reside from the kicks on their feet. It’s not a black or white thing or a rich and poor thing. Quite frankly it’s a sneaker head thing and the sneaker heads love for shoes. Religion is based on beliefs, and we believe that shoes have the power to make us fly beyond the earth.

Head Religion

By Kenneth “Kicks” Rush

Teenage sneaker heads and the original sneaker heads who we refer to as original gangsters take pride in our kicks. For the most part, the OG’s has no brand affiliation and wears just about everything from the 1990’s. The shoes the OG’s wore as kids resurfaced in the 2000’s. In some cases, minor tweaks were made to the shoe, but for the most part, quality is always instilled. For the OG’s it is the concept quality over quantity.

Younger sneaker heads are just the opposite. I am a younger sneaker head; I side with the OG’S on this one. I choose quality over quantity any day because having shoes that are worth something makes me a sneaker head. Now my generation wears the new fads, so whatever is considered cool, we wear. A shoe may be hot one day, but the next month may be considered out of style. For a sneaker head, the collection never ends.

OG’s and teens both understand the culture of sneakers.

What a lot of people do not realize is that there is a reason we buy sneakers. We don’t just spend thousands of dollars a year on sneakers just to say we have a lot of kicks. We want to be part of this diverse sneaker culture. The culture of Hip Hop has influenced many people. Hip Hop artists have their own style and ways of doing different things.

Companies, who are aware of the sneaker culture, make different shoes for different people. Quite frankly that’s the beauty of it. But Hip Hop has had a huge effect on the shoe game. Rappers talk about being fresh and always wearing the latest shoes. So the influence from Hip Hop comes to the streets, and we want to rock what they are rapping about. So it’s an ongoing cycle; they rap and we buy what they rap about. We’ve have seen this in many cases, such as Jay-Z, Run DMC, and recently Kanye West.

Run DMC wore Adidas and set the bar for collectors. The influence was incredible. Jay-Z dropped the S.Carter kicks with Reebok that blew up. In addition, Kanye West dropped the Air Yeezy's through Nike, which blew the scene completely. So it’s not just the athletes who are the faces of the shoes. Being a sneaker head does not rely on athletic ability but creativity and imagination as well.

5

TOP

MOVIES

Takers

The Expendables

Inception

Lottery Ticket

Eat Pray Love

DAVID BRIDGEFORTH REPRESENTS THE NEW PARADIGM OF MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER BY “KEEPING IT ”

By H. Nichole Jelks Photo by Pride Photography A resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, David Bridgeforth learned at an early age that impact drives income. Living in a single-parent household, he attended a non-denominational Christian church with his mother where he realized his gift of communication. Active in the church, his artistry of communication paved the way for Bridgeforth to become a youth minister by the age of 14. As a youth minister, he coordinated youth activities and was enthusiastically embraced by his peers. “The youth received me well because I had something to say,” says Bridgeforth.

Daring to be different, Bridgeforth always wore a suit and tie in high school, and his classmates often thought he was a substitute teacher due to his mature demeanor. As a high student, Bridgeforth had the opportunity to meet Dr. Eugene White, who is the Superintendent of the Indianapolis Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in Indiana. During that meeting, topics of discussion focused on such concerns of Dr. White as student violence, student dropouts, and teacher/student relationships. Strongly impressed by Bridgeforth’s knowledge and shared concerns, the superintendent appointed Bridgeforth as a student representative of Indianapolis Public Schools. In his newly-appointed role, Bridgeforth gave motivational speeches and presentations to schools in the Indianapolis area. As his reputation grew, Bridgeforth began to spread his motivational messages to high school audiences throughout the country.

As a result of his connecting interactions with other high school students, Bridgeforth was able to convey and report their concerns to the school district administration. Through the use of television, print and other media exposure, Bridgeforth became the voice of, and the liaison between, high school students and school leadership. Because of his efforts, areas of concern and recommendations for improvements were addressed with its eventual progress recognized by the Indianapolis community.

His uncle suggested to Bridgeforth to read a book, “ , written by Les Brown, a worldrenowned motivational speaker. Because the family could not afford to purchase the book, he frequently went the local library to read a chapter per visit.

Thoroughly fascinated and motivated by his reading, Bridgeforth was excited to learn that Les Brown would be a presenter during an event sponsored by the Indiana Black Expo. Anxious to meet the dynamic speaker whose book made a profound impact, he made a conscious effort to attend. It was a decision that would bring positive influence for Bridgeforth.

Later, after the presentation from Les Brown, Bridgeforth made a willful attempt to answer Brown’s call for the audience to meet him. With much anticipation and desire, he was finally able to greet the man who was living his dream. He received a general greeting from Brown and took a picture with his motivational idol. However, this did not satisfy Bridgeforth. As Brown continued his greetings with other audience members, the determined Bridgeforth rushed back to Brown and reintroduced himself. “I remembered telling him what I wanted to do, and my passion was to be a motivational speaker,” recalls Bridgeforth. That persistence impressed Brown who gave Bridgeforth his telephone number. Brown eventually invited him to attend an event held in Orlando, Florida in which Brown was a keynote speaker. It was during that event Brown introduced Bridgeforth as a motivational speaker to the audience and handed the microphone to him. “I had no idea about the audience and what my subject would be,” says Bridgeforth. “But, I made it worked.”

From that day in Orlando to the present, he is now known as “Les Brown’s little boy.” Under the teaching and guidance of Brown, Bridgeforth developed a sound concept of life and obtained a clearer understanding of the difference between a preacher and a communicator. Having experienced both platforms, he focused his passion as a communicator to inspire others to change and direct others to their potential.

As a father figure, Brown taught Bridgeforth the concept of impact drives income. Bridgeforth explains ” embraces the importance of “ making a difference in life and to always be positive

and humble. Challenged to read books every day of the week, Bridgeforth has become a recognized and popular communicator, earning reputation for his energy, enthusiasm and straight-forward messages.

In addition to motivational speaking, he writes poetry during his spare time. Fate intervened when Brown and Bridgeforth were invited to meet with the worldrenowned poet, Maya Angelou. During the airplane trip, he wrote her a poem. Upon arrival at her home, Bridgeforth shared his interest of becoming a poet, and Angelou explained to him that it takes time to be considered a poet. This prompted Bridgeforth to read the poem he wrote from his heart to Angelou. The reading brought tears to her eyes, and she deemed Bridgeforth a poet. “It was a phenomenal experience,” says Bridgeforth.

In addition to helping others realize their potential, Bridgeforth credits his mentorship with Brown and his motivational platform in strengthening his relationship with his father, creating a twist of irony because Bridgeforth’s father, a former motivational speaker, also idolized Brown. As a result, Bridgeforth and his father work closely together. “The legacy that I desire to leave behind is to establish the Bridgeforth Center to serve as the bridge forward for individuals,” says Bridgeforth. “The center will be a place for people to go somewhere, be something greater and take the opportunity to leap into the opportunity of lifetime and the lifetime of an opportunity.”

FASHION FINDS

Styled by Lamya Yasmin

Elizabeth and James E-moxy leather lace-up boots ( ), People- Destroyed Boyfriend Fit Denim Jeans ( ), GivenchyStudded Medium Nightingale Top handle ( ), Aminaka Wilmont Asymmetric leather jacket ( ), Eveline’s Antiqued Style Turquoise Beaded Stretch Bracelet ( ), Roberto Cavalli Swarovski crystal heart pendant necklace ( )

RECIPES

*AFTER-WORK DINNER* After a long day of work, sit down and enjoy a home cooked meal with the people you love. Our after work menu features a hardy helping of succulent lamb chops grilled to perfection, served with your favorite side dish

RECIPES

Grilled Lamb Chops Ingredients: Lamb Chops Meat Tenderizer Dry Ginger Garlic Salt Rubbed Sage Vinegar Salt Olive Oil Black pepper

Preparation: 1. Wash lamb chops 2. Dry with paper towel 3. Rub meat with ginger, sage, salt, paper, meat tenderizer, garlic salt.

4. Place season meat in freezer bag, pour Âź cup of vinegar over meat. Zip lock in bag and 5. let marinate overnight.

6. Remove meat from bag 7. Place on grill 8. Serve with rice or your favorite side dish.

RECIPES

Easy Peanut Butter Pie Ingredients:

Preparation:

Âź cup creamy (or) Crunchy peanut butter 1 16 oz. container of cool-whip 9 inch graham cracker crust 1 bottle of Hershey Chocolate Syrup

1. Mix cool whip and peanut butter together 2. Pour into graham cracker crust 3. Chill (or) can be frozen until ready to serve Let thaw..

4. Drizzle with Hershey Chocolate Syrup

J The Signature of a Classic Lifestyle WWW.SIGNATUREJMAGAZINE.COM

FASHION

Christiane King FASHION DESIGNER

By Janet Cruz

“Leslie” Mermaid cut wool crepe gown with organic folds at bodice.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

“Leila" Double face satin organza cocktail dress with organic folds at bodice and contrast belt Photo by Arthur St. John.

t.

Christiane is involved with a variety of charities including donating dresses to women in need.

Christiane King was born in the Cote d’Ivorie (French for the Ivory Coast of Africa) where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in International Trade in the City of Abidjan. She came to the United States to pursue a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. However, her passion was in the area of fashion with dreams to become a fashion designer. So, instead, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design from Woodbury University in Los Angeles, California. Christiane’s eye for fashion coupled with her conviction to “aim high” has served her well. She was presented the “Best of Couture” award by renowned industry professionals at the University’s Gala in recognition of her final design collection. Christiane admits that when she lived in Africa, fashion was not a priority. However, she has always believed that fashion designing was not just a business. “I can change lives through my work,” says Christiane. Previous to launching her fashion line fulltime, she worked as a designer for Macy’s “Hello Kitty” Division from 2005 to the latter part of 2009.

“Women inspire me. I grew up in an environment where women are very curvy, so my designs are drawn from my appreciation of organic shapes such as organza and chiffons that compliment a woman’s body,” explains Christiane. She further states, “I am really close to nature. I love botanical gardens and hiking, so my feature designs that are strongly influenced by my love of art, color and nature.”

Since the launch of in fall 2006, her fashion-forward designs have been adorned by many celebrities such as actresses Lisa Raye and Terri Hatcher of the hit ABC-TV series, .

Currently, Christiane is developing a handbag collection for spring. There are also plans to open a retail boutique to make her designs accessible to the general population.

“I love to travel especially to Europe, Latin America and Asia,” says Christiane. She also enjoys cooking and admits that strawberry crêpes are her specialty.

“There is a lot of complaining from people in America, but I would love for them to see how lovely this country is through my journey,” states Christiane. Where there is a will, there is a way. I came to this country with no background and no connections, but I was able to start from the ground up. Whatever success I achieve and how high I get, I am still that little girl from Africa. It feels very surreal and humbling.”

"Lexane" Draped silk charmeuse and chiffon two-toned mini dress.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

"Lurane" Mermaid cut four-ply silk crepe gown with organic rose detail at bodice.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

"Lena" Off-shoulder calla lily inspired double face satin organza cocktail dress.

Photo by Arthur St. John.

FASHION

FASHION FEVER What’s the newest trend?

Ta

angula Earrings from Tru Destini Designs by

Q&A O-BEE

MICHAEL J BH Michael Jackson is regarded around the world as the GREATEST entertainer of all time. His gift to capture an audience through his flawless performances set the standard for entertainment. And now the spotlight shines on a thrilling new artist, O-Bee, who is said to be a student of the master embracing the adage, “ .�

HATTI

By Janet Cruz

Photo by Mathias Fossum

expressions when I dance, and I think that will give me “A young entertainer who has been on the road an advantage if I start acting. One of my dreams is to traveling his whole life, collecting inspiration from the play King Tut in a movie based on his life. city lights of Las Vegas to the seashore of Japan, ready to share his passion with the world.”

“I go to the movies often, listen to music and play ball. I like being in the company of kids.”

“Like flying on another planet.”

“I do not like to be labeled my style of dance. It is easy to see where I am inspired from, but I always try “It is part of who I am as a person. It has been my to take my body to new places when dancing and passion for as long as I can remember.” showing the eyes something it never seen before. My idol, Bruce Lee, once said, ‘Empty your mind…be formless and shapeless like Water.’

“Even though I'm a little guy, I'm pretty good at playing basketball. I also like to draw and design. I feel that I have a creative mind.”

“Follow me on my journey, and you'll see.”

“Right now, I am focusing on my own music, but I “Kanye West, StarGate, NO I.D., Rodney Jerkins, have a hand in another big project soon to be an- and Swizz Beats.” nounced.”

“Sure, I would love to. I am mostly inspired by “Somewhere tropical like Hawaii. I also love South music from the States, so it would be an honor to give Africa.” back to an American audience.”

“I do not really follow the music scene over here.

But it looks like it has been getting better the last few years.”

“Kanye West, Nicki Minaj and The Game”

“No, his music is UNTOUCHABLE. But, I already did a freestyle over which can be heard and seen on my website, Yes, I am open to other genres, but I will still be www.obeegalaxy.com” rapping. The latest song I'm working on which might be my first single is very Rock-inspired.”

“I am currently in a good dialogue with Universal Music for the release of my first single.”

“I have been interested in film since a young age.

When I was little, I used to improvise stepping into different characters. I have always used a lot of facial

Photo by Bjorn Myreze

SIGNATURE Michael Jackson

J PLAYLIST

BUSINESS In the past, the buzzword in the service industry and the business arena was customer satisfaction. But as a customer, satisfaction meant that I accept the product the way it is. I may not be crazy over this item, but it met my needs. Customer satisfaction did not always lead to repeat business. The majority of business opportunities today are dependent on word-of-mouth advertising to create new and repeat business.

Customer Delight

By Ronnie D. Banks, Jr.

Today, customer satisfaction is not enough to continue and develop business opportunities. You must provide your customers with products and services that them. You need them to feel the excitement and joy these items bring to them. In other words, you want to them with your products and services. As your customers are delighted with the experience of using your products and services, they, in turn, will tell others about their wonderful experience with your company which will eventually lead to more business.

Customer delight occurs when our customers receive a quality product or service that exceeds their expectations, delivered to them when they required it and at a cost they are willing to afford. What corporate goals will you set to become your cornerstones for customer delight? All of your corporate goals will be equally important and must be achieved if you are to put your customers in a state of EXCITEMENT.

Everyone that makes contact with the customer or touches the product or service that the customer purchases. This includes all entities of the manufacturing cycle, sales, marketing, engineering, account-

ing, advertising, service support and even the supplier who furnishes any raw materials. This contact may be in the form of, but not limited to, telephone conversations, corporate websites, manuals, referrals, or even additional information in addition to the product itself.

Although your emphasis is on the end user or purchaser of your product or service, you’ll need to understand that we are all suppliers and customers at the same time. The golden rule, “Treat others as how you want to be treated,” provides the foundation needed to ensure that you meet your customer’s needs. Respond to your customers with a sense of urgency, designing and building quality into the product or service the first time, delivering the product or service without damage/malfunctions, and assisting with customer-related issues with diligence and desire, will set you apart from your competition. Placing the customer first in everything you do will create an environment that surpasses any expectation. The willingness to go the extra mile with a cheerful smile ensures success for the future of your business. The next time you come in contact with your customer think in the back of your mind,

BUSINESS

By Malinda J. Pernell YOUR BRAND? In today’s ever evolving and diverse global economy, it is becoming extremely important to know who you are and what you represent as a business. In every industry, businesses are vying for market share and consumer dollars. As such, you need to know your brand, and you must be able to personify that brand in order to be successful in the marketplace. In fact, various research studies have indicated that the average consumer is exposed to over 1000 brands on a daily basis. Growing competition within an increasingly demanding and sophisticated market makes the brand the critical backbone and foundation of a business. While branding has long been a key focus of many large international and national corporations, the concept is still a relatively fresh concept that is becoming more accepted by entrepreneurs and small businesses. Now, branding is recognized by business professionals as a key indicator and major influence in the success of a business. While the term is more frequently touted, branding is more than an attractive logo, a memorable slogan, fancy business cards or impressive websites. While these are critical creative elements, there is much more to the art of branding. Branding is an evolving process that embraces a strong culture within your company that supports your purpose and mission. Your brand should be a systematic, comprehensive approach to create an emotional connection with your customer base. Simply stated, your brand must stimulate and foster a trusted relationship based on an emotion that correlates with your targeted consumer market.

As a multi-faceted implementation process, your brand should clearly define the nature of your business, the characteristics of your niche market, and the

benefits of your product or service. As the core of your business, the brand supports the methodical strategy and the emotional concept that directs the external and internal pulses of your company. In fact, every segment of your business should be representative of your brand. Your employees must understand it; your systems and processes should incorporate it; and the delivery of your product or service must embody it. As the foundation of your business, your brand must continually instill a sense of purpose that is clearly reflected in your mission statement and your vision statement.

Your brand is the unifying thread that promotes consistency in the theme, the concept, the culture, the environment and the daily operations of your business.

Your brand is the promise, the environment and the reputation of your company. It creates the positive experience that strengthens customer relationships that will lead to increased consumer loyalty, market share and recognition as an industry leader. Branding enforces accountability and credibility that are key aspects to building an emotional bond with your customers. , and, .

This is the foundation of branding, and once you understand its true feature, you will be able to easily identify and embrace the soul of your brand.

Branding has numerous interpretations because there are several sides to branding. Because of its many faces, it is important that you understand and incorporate the different elements of branding as you build your business. By all are the brand of accounts, your business. You are the captain and the leader. Under your leadership, you provide the direction and command the navigation of your brand development and strategy within your business structure.

Personal branding includes attributes that combine your actual and perceived appearance and image, expertise, beliefs, and personality.

The integrity of you and your business identity is intimately intertwined. And, as the major building block of your company brand, you set the tone and the commitment to bring your company brand to life.

Your customers will judge the sincerity of the message and the effectiveness of the promise based on their viewpoint of you and all aspects of your company. Buyers want to do business with someone whom they perceived to have credibility, reliability and trustworthiness. As the adage goes, “You must walk the walk and talk the talk.� Your consumers must first embrace receive validation that and believe in your message, purpose, vision and mission. Their perception of you will influence their opinion of the unique quality and benefits of your product or service, the commitment of your employees and representatives, and the value and delivery of your promise.

Today, personal branding has evolved into the more frequent use of executive branding to build or enforce the overall brand of a company. Executive branding closely and strategically aligns the president, CEO or high level executive of the company with its brand to increase visibility and instant recognition. One of the masters of executive branding is American real estate mogul and entrepreneur, Donald Trump, who brilliantly and effectively orchestrated an international corporate and personal brand of luxury, success, and opulence. Other CEOs have successfully used executive branding to promote causes that are in sync with their company’s mission and vision.

The opinion of your customers will fuel the perception of your product or service brand. It is important to remember that it is not the actual product or service that matters most to your customers, but rather it will fulfill their need or want. The emotional connection with your buyers is a significant factor in the overall perception of your product or service brand. Your customers must identify with the which, in return, will define the emotional value of your brand.

Remember, the brand is all about emotions, and consumers will buy based on an emotion. You must be able to tap into that emotion by building your brand based on the benefits of your product or service.

Your consumers will distinctly know if your brand is authentic, and you should communicate and demonstrate it with a sense of purpose and a high level of respect for your customers. By establishing

that emotional experience with your customers, you create a brand relationship based on trust and loyalty that will solidify your market position.

Oftentimes, when asked about their brand position within their particular industry, most entrepreneurs and business owners are somewhat perplexed about their competitors.

In order to build a successful market brand, you must know how to differentiate yourself from the competition. Customers will take notice of the person who brings something different and special from the others. Again, you must take constant assessment of the emotional benefits of your product or service and parlay that message to the consumer.

Because your brand is a perceived reality, you must continually strive to satisfy the emotional need of the consumer. There will be new entries into your market constantly, and it is important to continue to nurture the brand relationship you have established with your customers. Your corporate culture and operations must continually and consistently personify your brand in order to maintain company stability despite growing market competition. Your employees and representatives should exemplify your brand with enthusiasm and passion in order to create a positive emotional experience with each customer encounter. If you maintain the core values and purpose that comprise your brand, your customers will provide the anchor to secure your position within the market.

The soul of your brand is an emotional relationship with your customers. It is the energy that fuels your business, and the vehicle that drives the culture of your business.

Your customers are the reason for, and the beneficiaries of, your brand, and it cannot survive without their support. Your brand is not one-dimensional because it consists of many components that are interconnected and interrelated. Your brand is about fulfilling a need, satisfying a desire and embracing an emotion. The soul of your brand is about becoming keenly aware of the purpose of your brand is and what it represents. Bottom line: Your brand is the reason why you are in business. It defines who you are, what you are selling and who is buying it. Based on that foundation, you can build an effective brand strategy that utilizes various mediums to reach your niche market.

Your brand must be represented by the message, values and beliefs that are embedded in the culture of your business. In addition, it must resonate with your targeted consumers.

Building your brand is a continual, developmental journey that will include your customers, employees and representatives, product or service and overall business environment. But, your brand begins with you. You are the spirit and the essence of your brand. Your brand reflects your core beliefs, values and standards because you are the personification of your brand. By capturing the essence of your brand, you must lead by example. By doing so, you establish accountability with

your customers and credibility with- cifically, however, branding allows in your market. you to solidify a bond of loyalty that psychologically connects with your The art of branding is a dynamic customers. Your brand creates a progression of value concepts that platform of goodwill that is evident strive to meet the needs of your throughout your entire business entargeted consumer base. This pro- vironment in its dealing with congression should utilize a systematic sumers. Within that context, the means to highlight and promote the soul of your brand allows your busiuniqueness of your brand. The soul ness to position itself as a leader in of your brand fortifies the founda- its specific market that boasts a loyal tion of your business, and it legion of dedicated customers. breathes life into the dynamics of your entire operation. Uniformity should be your focus because it projects strength, confidence and affirmation of your brand and its position within the market.

The success of your brand, though, is not measured by you or your team but by your customers. It is their opinions, comments and viewpoints that will determine if your brand has successfully met their expectations.

The soul of your brand is the heart of your business, and it is important to periodically assess the health of that brand. Also, the soul of your brand understands your customers and allows you to emotionally connect with them. The soul of your brand promotes consistency in your literature and tools that clearly defines your message and product or service as well as emphasizes your business identity while supporting consistent messages in your slogan, mission statement and vision statement.

Branding is a special and unique factor of your business. In general, it assists you in connecting with your customers and ideal consumers, and it creates that atmosphere of distinction and exclusivity. Spe-

ENTERTAINMENT

By Rod Cruz

P

ortia Kirkland began her career in the music industry by first gaining exposure provided by her father, B.K. Kirkland, who was then program director at WBLS in New York City. “My father had a clear understanding early on what I wanted to do, and that was attending the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, and later became a break dancer,” says Portia. During Kirkland’s early formative years she was blessed and fortunate to have a father in the radio industry as program director and a stepfather who was a successful jazz saxophonist. The time spent at Ailey was rewarding for Kirkland, but the allure of the Hip Hop scene was enticing with few women drawn to the art of break dancing. At Ailey, Kirkland was in a pool of incredibly talented dancers, but learning to break dance would set her apart from the classically trained Ailey Theater dancers.

Starting out as a B-girl, Kirkland would embark on her music industry journey during the golden era of Hip Hop in the late 1980’s. For Kirkland, in the early years of Hip Hop, it was about the movement and not about the budget. She recalls getting her first big break by performing with the Real Roxanne in one of her early videos. Eventually, she perfected her B-girl dancing style in NYC’s Hip Hop club scene at such spots as the legendary Latin Quarters, Rooftop, Roxy, and Union Square.

land strategized to secure new revenue streams for Ludacris such as multimillion dollar endorsement deals with PUMA and XM Satellite Radio. Kirkland recalls, “It was important to us, at that particular time at DTP, that Ludacris be seen as more than just a rapper.”

Not just a talented dancer, Kirkland also signed a record deal under legendary producer Marley Marl at A&M Records. She later joined Marl’s songwriting team. During the A&M years, Kirkland transitioned to singer/dancer/choreography/song writer. This skill set led her to gain the attention of music titans, Benny Medina and Tyrone Williams. Never one to rest on her laurels, she would enroll at Fairleigh Since leaving DTP, Kirkland has embarked on a new Dickerson University in New Jersey to obtain her exciting pathway which included authoring a book titled “ ,” an inspiration book Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. encouraging healing and self-love. Kirkland’s marketing fingerprints can still be found on some of It was not until the early 1990’s that Kirkland realized today’s hottest recording artists such as Nicki Minaj, how big Hip Hop would be, and how it became a huge Gucci Mane, and Waka Flocka Flame through her business bonanza. She describes an encounter with consulting for So Icey Mizay Entertainment in 2009.

Eric “Eazy E” Wright this way. “Eazy was about Kirkland has subsequently launched her own marketbusiness…laid back and intelligent. He understood ing company, Chenoa Entertainment LLC. In typical his rap delivery wasn’t the greatest, but he had the angel on earth style, Kirkland is host of the widely ability to make it believable,” says Kirkland. Another popular Christian-themed radio show, SKY HIGH, artist that touched Kirkland’s life was the iconic Tu- on www.beehivefm.com. The tour de force show pac Shakur. Shakur was a genus according to Kirk- features discussion on various secular and Christian land. “He would read the New York Times from front issues. to back,” says Kirkland. “He wanted everyone to do their very best. Had he lived, you would have seen more from him in terms of his acting and poetry.” As an assistant to Tupac’s publicist, Kirkland saw firsthand how serious he took his craft.

The evolution of Kirkland was completed by her joining the ranks as a marketing executive with LaFace Records, the Atlanta-based label founded by Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds. At the time Kirkland joined LaFace Records, it was home to such artists as OutKast, Usher, Pink, and TLC. Because of the label’s focus on artist development, the entire staff was involved in the creative and promotional aspects of production. Kirkland explains, “At LaFace, if the artist was required to have sex appeal, so were you.”

After a stint at LaFace Records, Kirkland was tapped as head of marketing for Def Jam South/Disturbing tha Peace (DTP) Records, considered one of her favorite stops in her storied career. At DTP, Kirkland was instrumental in the artist development of rapper, Christopher “Ludacris” Bridges. While at DTP, Kirk-

FASHION FINDS

Styled by Lamya Yasmin

Alaia Braided suede ankle boots ( Ariella Collection Stacking Rings (set of 4)( ), Necklace Pearl Silver ( ), Mark Jacobs Garbo Camille Satchel ( ), Day Birger et Mikkelsen Marine Striped Wool Sweater ( ), Freelook Unisex Aquamarina Yellow gold plated case Black Dial Black Sillicon Band Watch( )

ENTERTAINMENT

Presenting

The New Diva of Southern Soul…

Falisa JaNaye’

By Janet Cruz Photo by Marcus B. Walter

S

outhern soul music can be best described as a funky blend of gospel fused with rhythm and blues. True to this genre is Falisa JaNaye’, the new diva of southern soul music. A Crawford, Mississippi native, JaNaye’ grew up singing gospel music in her local church choir. Inspired by such great musical artists Michael Jackson, Shirley Caesar and Whitney Houston, she knew that her passion embraced music.

Spanning the globe, JaNaye’ has shared the stage with such Gospel greats as Keith “Wonder Boy” Johnson and Blues artists like Bobby Rush, Willie Clayton, Vick Allen, T.K. Soul, and Karen Wolfe. JaNaye’s unique sultry singing style can be traced to her interpretation of the Southern sound mixed with her international travel in Europe where she modeled for several years. While living in Hanau, Germany, she was the lead model for Miss Carol’s Hair Salon and Total Transportation Hair Care Products of North Carolina. “The American music scene in Germany is so powerful. They have embraced our culture and music,” says JaNaye’. The multi-talented JaNaye’ wrote the title song, “ ,” and lyrics for tracks, “ ” and “ ” featured on her most recent album.

What’s next for JaNaye’? She has a role in the independent film entitled, “ ,” directed by Lawyer Henderson of Atlanta, Georgia as well as touring with popular R & B and vocal group, The Manhattans. “After I decided to put my career and life in God’s hands, the doors started opening,” explains JaNaye’.

A self-described singer of “grown folks music” JaNaye’ establishes an automatic connection with her fans through her vivid renditions of songs from the heart. Like a true Southern belle, JaNaye’ looks to blaze her own trail for the delivery of genuine music.

J

SIGNATURE BOOK SHELF

By Janet Cruz

W

ith a desire to help others, Leslie Wimes-Harris started her career as a Registered Nurse. With over twenty years in the medical industry, it provided Wimes-Harris the experience and insight to continue her journey to make a positive contribution in the lives of others.

Today, Wimes-Harris is the mastermind and the driving force behind “ ” one of the fastest growing women’s online networking groups in the country. The network has over 7,800 members nationwide, and the group embraces a mantra, “ ” The proactive women’s movement not only includes a robust networking platform, but also contains a radio internet blog format hosted by WimesHarris that discusses a wide variety of topics ranging from entertainment to business.

Dynamic and vibrant, Wimes-Harris is a proponent of smart business strategies wrapped in a healthy dose of common sense. She believes business blended with common sense is the key to a successful enterprise long-term. For Wimes-Harris, the blueprint for success must be developed through strategic planning and careful execution.

Wimes-Harris, a resident of Boynton Beach, Florida, enjoys spending time with her daughter Alexa, a student at New York University, shopping and playing tennis. She hopes to build a legacy of sharing knowledge and building lasting positive working relationships. Always self-evolving, Wimes-Harris is currently developing a skincare line specifically for women.

Inspired by her mother and grandmother, Wimes-Harris exemplified the attributes of women on the move by combining poise, business leadership, and class personified. A true mover and shaker, she is empowering women to shatter the “glass ceiling” and achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.

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