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Editor’s Desk
Wow, we got such a great response from our first issue, it literally blew us away. Thank you so much to everyone who gave us feedback and decided to support us by checking out the publication. This month we wanted to give you something special. Valentine’s Day is this month and love is in the air, so we sat down with four couples from different walks of life to give you some perspective on marriage. I thought about it long and hard when we decided to do this as our cover story and I still believe in true love. Call me crazy but I think that even in a society that seems to be losing its moral compass, two people can get married and stay together until death do them part. Love is a complicated thing and it takes time for two people to fully understand each other. It took me years to understand myself alone so I understand that marriage isn’t always peaches and cream, it takes work. I think these amazing people will shed a little light on how they’ve made it work. “Let’s Stay Together” is a song by Al Green that says, “…you make me feel so brand new. And I want to spend my life with you.” I hope that this Valentine’s Day you and your lover find ways to make your bond new and fresh and are able to build a foundation for a lifetime of love. We also took out the time to talk to some pretty cool people from around the capitol city about the projects and local businesses they have coming up. It’s exciting to see the passion entrepreneurs have in their eyes. They are in love too, in love with innovation and the chance to serve their community. Truly my hope is that you are inspired by the contents of this issue and open your heart to a lot more love, whichever form you choose.
Until Next Time,
table of 08
CONT Rouge Business Spotlight:
Terrie Lundy The Chocolate Cafe
10
Inner Peace
So, who better to love than yourself?
12
Arousol Tips A Few Tips To Make Sure Your Big Moment Is Amazing
14
Braving Baton Rouge Interview with Jeff and Kelly LeDuff of Open Eyes Safety Training
16
Lets Stay Together
A Century of Matrimony
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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHEIF Gary Chambers DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Stephen Johnson DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Brandi Cann EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tamara Williams EXECUTIVE EDITOR Thelisia Davis ART DIRECTOR Brittany Brown SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Brett Holt/Clifford Holden HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR Camille Johnese FASHION EDITOR Elle Marie BEAUTY DIRECTOR Laticia King CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shaquille Cossé Tamisha Monet Jalen Greenhouse Quinton Paul Reginald Jackson Willie Washington Shuntel Jenkins Ashney Williams
TENTS 22
Interview with a Gentleman
Author, Enitan Bereola Discusses His Latest Book Gentlewoman: Etiquette For a Lady, From a Gentleman
24
More Than a Show
Interview with Baton Rouge Fashion Week Founder, Brandon Campbell
26
Eastern Confrence
You Are The Weakest Link
28
Journey to the Tourney
This will be a different year for the Jags as they move deep into conference play in preparation for the NCAA tournament.
30
The Rouge Collection LLC. is owned and operated by B. Cann, G. Chambers and S. Johnson
Contact Information Address: 11017 Perkins Rd. Suite C.
The Closet
Email: Info@therougecollection.net
All-Star Weekend brings out the top athletes, hottest celebs.
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BUSINESS
BATON ROUGE BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Terrie Lundy
The Chocolate Cafe, LLC BY THELISIA DAVIS |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARY CHAMBERS
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I
f you are looking for sweets for your sweetie for Valentine’s Day or want to treat someone special to something indulgent for a “just because” day, The Chocolate Café’s Belgium chocolate should most definitely be considered. Owner, Terrie Lundy talks about her favorites from her shop, her specialties and the recipe for success: When and how did you get your start with The Chocolate Café? As a professional in Corporate America for over 22 years, I decided that I wanted a
company of my own, a place that I could develop and grow my entrepreneurial talents and skills. A business that was fun, enjoyable, and satisfying to all. That’s when the vision for “The Chocolate Café” was created. The Chocolate Café opened its doors on Feb. 11, 2012 and has been opened now for almost 2 years providing gourmet chocolates, brownies, and coffees to the residents of Louisiana . What do you love most about it? The Chocolate Café provides a unique, warm atmosphere
BUSINESS chocolate! What are some future plans/goals for The Chocolate Café? We have plans to expand to other locations locally and then regionally thereafter. We offer franchising opportunities and are very excited about future collaborations with other business owners. What advice would you give to a working professional (or any other) who would like to pursue entrepreneurship? Pursuing entrepreneurship has to be something you’re passionate about. It has to be
where people are allowed to “RELAX” and escape the hustle and bustle of the day. As the owner of The Chocolate Café, I realize that your environment is everything! Having a place to go and relax and eat your favorite chocolate, or get your favorite latte and listen to some soft music and chat with friends and family are important. We offer free Wi-Fi and an atmosphere that allows you to sit and reflect on the finer things of life. What’s the most popular item on the menu? During Valentine’s?
Our Vanilla Latte’s, and Café Mocha’s are phenomenal and any of our specialty chocolates from Belgium. During Valentine’s we offer chocolate covered strawberries, pretzels, and an assorted chocolate basket, which includes a variety of chocolates, brownies, and pastries. What is your personal favorite item on your menu? I love the Walnut and Pecan gourmet brownie! I also love all of the “Sugar Free” chocolate items because they taste so much like regular
something that you wake up every morning and say, how can I make this dream happen. You have to have a relentless spirit and drive to achieve, and it starts with you wanting to always learn and produce possibilities that haven’t been seen by others. It’s a growth process that affords you the ability to use what has naturally been placed in your spirit to achieve, so use your vision and drive for success to learn and change your environment in order to form and develop your business. More importantly use your passion for entrepreneurship to be able to meet a need.
I decided that I wanted a company of my own, a place that I could develop and grow my entrepreneurial talents and skills. A business that was fun, enjoyable, and satisfying to all. That’s when the vision for “The Chocolate Café” was created.
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HEALTH
Cam’s Guide to Self Love: The Journey to Inner Peace BY CAMILLE JOHNESE |
Y
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAM WILLIAMS
all that falls in between. Fighting against things, especially ou probably read that title and went “Man, that’s things we have no control over, is what gives birth to negative a mouth full”. It is indeed, but there’s a reason for energy. Acceptance must be practiced in our daily lives. Let it all. Let me explain. This month is all about love, things be what they are and don’t try to force them to be what right? So, who better to love than yourself? The you want them to be. main step in acheiving self love in its truest form is to have peace within yourself. LETTING GO... After a recent epiphany of mine, I found that my mind, body Once you have accepted, let go. Let go of all the negative and spirit were no longer in sync. I decided to embark on a and useless things, thoughts, and energies. Give it back to the journey to awaken my soul and ultimately renew my mind and universe so that you can make room for positivity. body. Now, all of that sounds profound and interesting but don’t be fooled. A journey like this is not to be taken lightly, MONITOR AND CHANGE YOUR THOUGHTS... and is definitely not for the faint at heart. It takes a strong Peace of mind is a conscious effort. Train your thoughts to go person to look inside themselves, sort through and hash out in the right direction. Be aware of what you think and when the ugly and harmful things, and resurface as a beautifully you find that your mind tries to focus on destruction, change restored masterpiece. One hell of a challenge if I may say so to thoughts of light and love. Don’t myself. fight against your thoughts, simply I have been on my journey for a couple of months now and I have “Peace of mind is not the absence redirect them, but don’t stop the flow. learned quite a bit in a relatively short of conflict from life, but the ability to BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE LOVED... amount of time. This guide is all about cope with it” -Dorothy Thomas The bottom line is, there is just no way me sharing the wealth. I want to share to know exactly how other people see some of what I have learned along the you nor how they think of you. Your interactions with the way and encourage others to apply it to their own lives. people around you should be based upon actions. Specifically, how they act toward you. When someone genuinely loves you, The first step is probably the most important. In fact, I kind of cares about you, and wants the best for you, their actions will like to think of it as “the tie that binds.” reflect that. Use these actions as the basis for believing that you are loved. If someone constantly speaks positivity into ACCEPTANCE... your life, you can come to the conclusion that they care about Just acccept it! Everything...The good, the bad, the ugly, and
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you. Go through a mental check list of your immediate circle and add up actions and conclusions. I guarantee that you have enough people around you who love you that you’ll be able to say “I am loved; someone does love me!” COMING FROM LOVING KINDNESS... “Give kindness…always operate from a place of gentleness and love.” That is a daily affirmation for me. By speaking this to yourself and to the universe you are giving birth to light and love. By embracing an aura of love, you have no choice but to act in a peaceful manner no matter how others treat you. When you embody love, love is all you have to give. LIVING FROM YOUR HIGHER SELF... Last, but most certainly not least, we must act from our higher selves. The supreme beings that live inside of us. The parts of us that understand that any evil or wrong doing we participate in introduces negative energy and interrupts the flow of positive energy. The two can not dwell together. One is there to simply push out the other, while the other tries to re-enter, and it becomes a never ending cycle. Our goal should be to have the positive energy constantly cycling out the negative. In order to do this we must consciously make the choice to do the right things. Morally, spiritually, however you choose to look at it, we must do right and allow the spirits that dwell within us to lead. They operate from a place that is on one accord with the Creator. So by operating from that place we allow our earthly selves to become one with our spirits, the spirits of others around us, and the creator.
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HEALTH
Getting Aroused For Your Love BY CAMILLE JOHNESE |
J
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAM WILLIAMS
ust in time for the month of love, we wanted to bring you a few tips to help assure that your big moment is amazing from start to finish for both you and your partner. I have put together a list of a few things you can integrate into your love life o keep the fire
burning all night long.
Ginseng
T
h
i
s
natural herb has been proven to help
improve
mood, energy, and endurance. All three are key elements in a good night of love making. Start off your night by snuggling up with your partner and enoying a warm cup of ginseng tea.
Black Raspberries, Grapes & Strawberries All rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants, these fruits will enhance libido and sexual endurance. Enjoy a pregame teaser with your partner by grabbing these fruits along with some whipped cream and taking turns feeding one another.
Lettuce
Iceburg
lettuce
contains an opiate that helps to activate
sex
hormones. Be sure to prepare a small Back Massage Massaging facilitates circulation because the pressure created by the massage technique actually moves blood through congested areas. Schedule a couple’s massage with your partner, or treat one another to a massage at h o m e right before y o u r n i g h t cap
side salad to go along with your home cooked Valentine’s Day meal.
Figs
Figs are considered an excellent stimulant of fertility and are known to enhance
begins. Massaging the lower back and abdominal areas can help increase blood flow to the pelvis area leading to sexual stimulation and enhanced pleasure for both partners.
the of
secretion pheromones.
Pheromones naturally
are occurring
odorless substnces
that the fertile body excretes externally, conveying
an
airborne signal that provides information to, and triggers responses from, the opposite sex of the same species. Prepare a fig-filled tart or pie as dessert for your special night.
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Braving Baton Rouge: Interview with Jeff and Kelly LeDuff of Open Eyes Safety Training BY THELISIA DAVIS |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAM WILLIAMS
“
Sometimes, we believe everything is just going to be okay…” “When Derrick Todd Lee was here, my dad did classes similar to this in
Former Chief of Baton Rouge Police, Jeff LeDuff has a brand new
churches all through the city; so I always said to myself that one day, when we
business venture that combines his history with instructing and
have the means and the time we need to get together and make this a viable
law enforcement to help people, women in particular, gain a plan
business to put it in the city of Baton Rouge to try and make a difference. And
to keep safe.
it’s the best thing in the world to work with your father. I love it, I’m learning and I believe that this is something that I can continue long after he stops.”
Along with his son, Kelly LeDuff, Jeff aims to teach those who join his Open Eyes Safety Training to defend themselves. “Society has taught our women
The Open Eyes Safety Training program focuses on what we often take for
forever that they are the weaker sex. But we show them they have strength
granted by identifying the things that could compromise our safety in our
and can be successful in defending off an attacker.”
everyday life. “Criminals look for voids,” said Jeff. “And we identify those for our participates. If we eliminate the opportunities, we make our circumstances
“We developed a program to help women have tools to give them a plan on
better. Law enforcement does a wonderful job, but ultimately each individual
how to keep safe and if that plan fails we have information on how to define
is responsible for their own safety.”
themselves.” “My goal is that we get to a point where criminals stop and think before The idea for Open Eyes Safety Training (OEST) came from tragedy in the
attacking a woman,” said Kelly. “I hope we reach a point where [people who
LeDuff’s family. Kelly LeDuff recalled feeling the need for something like
have no defense training] are the minority. You have an alarm on everything
OEST following the death of his uncle. “When the dust settled on that, I knew I
in your life, why not have an alarm on your safety? What’s more important
wanted to do something to try to make a difference,” said Kelly. “The only thing
than that? That’s more important than an alarm on your house…you could
that I could think about was what my dad had done previously.”
know they are coming but do you know what to do if they actually get in?”
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Some advice from the LeDuff men is to, Open your eyes, be aware Listen for games, gimmicks, and scams Be prepared when going out, have a plan Believe in the buddy system “I think the most forgotten word in Webster’s Dictionary is ‘care’. I don’t think we care enough. Care about how you go to work. Care about the person standing next to you. Care about the old lady living down the street who’s by herself. I think if you put care back into everything you do…it makes it easier to do, it makes people see that you are really attentive to the task at hand,
“I cared about every job I had. I’m known for being ‘the police’ and that’s what I did to feed my family. But, honestly it was easy to be ‘the police’ because I cared about the people in this community. I still do.” It is the mission of Open Eyes Safety Training to provide individuals with a skill set that allows them to recognize and respond effectively to dangerous
situations. Contact Jeff and Kelly LeDuff for self defense training by phone: 225-313-9713, mail: PO BOX 83183 Baton Rouge, LA 70810, email: openeyesbr@gmail.com and by visiting their website: www. openeyessafetytraining.com
but more than that…it says something about you as an individual,” said Jeff.
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FEATURE
Lets Stay Together: A Century of Matrimony BY THELISIA DAVIS |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAM WILLIAMS
It’s commonly thought that love is the key component to a healthy, lasting marriage. The Rouge Collection picked the brains and hearts of four couples with over 100 years of experience collectively between them. From our conversation, we found that although it takes love (and tons of it), the union between woman and man demands a whole lot more to b e successful.
William & Ivon Johnson Married 48yrs
How long have you been married? Both: 48 Years How long were you together before marriage? IVON: We dated a year before we were married. How did you meet? WILLIAM: We both went to school at southern but our first time meeting was during a party that my ex-girlfriend at the time was throwing because she wanted me back(he laughed) Ivon had a few guys who were interested in her at the party. I remember her looking really pretty that night. Was it love at first sight? WILLIAM: Maybe not love at first sight but she was so down to earth, I knew I liked her right then. IVON: We liked each other but my mother had to check him out for almost three months before gave him the ok. What was the first date like? IVON: I don’t really remember but I’m sure it was going to the show because that’s something I like to do. (she laughed) How did you know he/she was the one? WILLIAM: Like I said she was so down to earth. IVON: I saw it through him coming to my house, every weekend to see me. I saw this faithfullness and thought,
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FEATURE “He would make a faithful husband.” Do you have children? IVON: Yes. Four boys. WILLIAM: They’re all grown. IVON: Well, three...in 1990 our son Brett passed away at 26 from cancer. How did/do you maintain your relationship (or romance with each other) while raising children? IVON: When our children were growing up we would always make time for each other, even if it was just staying up talking in the middle of the night. WILLIAM: And we would take trips to the swac games when our children were younger. That would be our vacation. We could entertain the kids and have time to ourselves. How did you get through your toughest time? IVON: After our son Brett died we went through a period where we were grieving and going in two separate directions. I turned to God and he turned to sports. One day, after he had came back from a game i just asked him, “Where have you been?” and we started talking. I don’t know what it was but things just went back to how they were for us. Not just how they were but God made it even better. WILLIAM: She’s more social than I am. I consider most people my associates, my wife and my
children are my best friends. IVON: He has always been the type of person to not care about what others think. He doesn’t have a problem voicing his opinion or if he loses friends behind standing his ground. I have learned from him, from money management to being able to not be concerned with what other people think of me. What is your advice for other couples? WILLIAM: If you want to find out if someone will make a good spouse...lose a job. IVON: Not to say that any one should be out of work. WILLIAM: No...but you’ll find out if they will be in your corner. IVON: He means that you can see if that person will encourage and support you during a hard time. What are some secrets to marriage? WILLIAM: Pay yourself, set goals, always have a plan. IVON: Learn how to forgive and make sure that you put God first. Make him a partner in any and everything you do and you’ll be successful.
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FEATURE Sal & Judy Boemia Married 45yrs
How long have you been married? BOTH: 45 years JUDY: We married in 1968. SAL: It’s been a long time. How long were you together before marriage? JUDY: We went together one time and then got married. We knew each other for about two or three weeks. How did you meet? JUDY: I had a friend who said to me, “ Judy, I have a brother-in-law who’s recently divorced and I’d like for y’all to meet.” I said, “I’m not interested.” But we did. We went to her house and played Monopoly with her and her husband. What was the first date like? JUDY: Playing Monopoly. I beat them all. Ask him and he’ll say he won. SAL: She cheats at Monopoly. Maybe I married her for revenge. How did you know she was the one? SAL: I thought she was a fine woman. She had very good principles. I knew she would rear my two children just like her own. And the two sets of twins didn’t know any other father but me. Do you have children? JUDY: At the time we were married I was a widow and I had two sets of twins, around 5 and 6 years old. He was divorced and he had two children, one 4 year old and a 2 year old. How did/do you maintain your relationship (or romance with each other) while raising children? JUDY: You don’t have free time when you have children. Now we try to do something fun all the time and we keep an open line of communication. SAL: I stood behind her with any choice for the children. You can’t get along with two parents who can’t come to a decision. Somebody has to be in charge. She was in charge. How did you get through your toughest time? JUDY: The love of Jesus. Marriages are made with God’s help. And having a sense of humor. Do you believe that opposites attract? JUDY: Oh yes. We’re two different people. SAL: She’s strict. I have pictures, she never smiled before she married me. I lightened things up for her. What is your advice for other couples? JUDY: Have fun. Make life fun, it goes by too quickly. SAL: You have to be able to work together and communicate. It takes two people to ring the bell.
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FEATURE Bert & Doris Wyre Married 39yrs
How long were you together before marriage? BERT: We dated a year and lived together for two. How did you meet? BERT: She was chosen for me. DORIS: (laughs) BERT: Dr. Barbara Humbles was my cousin’s best friend, and when she left to go to school I told her to find a girl and bring her to me. And when she go to Southern she was Doris’ roommate. So she brought her to meet me. Was it love at first sight? DORIS: No, I did not like him at first. What was the first date like? BERT: The very first date, I passed out. DORIS: Yes, it was a very scary first date. I was saying, “I don’t think I need to be with him. He’s passing out on the first date.” BERT: I was ill earlier that day and I had taken some antibiotics. Once I was feeling fine, a friend of mine and I went to a party. I picked up Doris and we all went to the party. When I got there I had a drink. I learned then that alcohol and antibiotics didn’t mix. How did you know he/she was the one? DORIS: After we overcame all the little stuff, I wanted to go higher places in life and he did as well. Therefore I said that we could do something with our lives and not be a hold back to each other. BERT: For me it was something my dad said. He pulled me to the side one day and said, “Doris isn’t like those other girls. “ and I knew what that meant. Do you have children? BERT: We have two. Crystal is 36 and Trey is 32. How did you maintain your relationship (or romance with each other) while raising children? BERT: We decided that we were a team and we are best friends. There was no division between us on raising kids. DORIS: And we sent them to bed at a certain time every day, the rest of that time we spent for us. How did you get through your toughest time? BERT: The toughest time was probably in 1977. I started a business, Crystal was born and we bought our house…all within about a six month period. So we had an increase in expenses, an increase in responsibilities and a decrease in income. DORIS: We just hung in there, stuck together and supported each other. I said, “If you don’t succeed this first time in your business, get up and try it again.”
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FEATURE Do you believe that opposites attract? DORIS: We are opposite for sure. BERT: But we also have a lot in common. Like, during our teenage years, we both were active in the Civil Rights movement. That was something that was a common thread. But as far as our personalities, I’m a softy until I’m mad. DORIS: He has a hard time telling people no. This is how he would get over, “Uhhhh, Doris says…” (she laughs) So I’m the
villain. What is your advice for other couples? DORIS: My advice would be follow your heart, don’t listen to others. Some people will try to destroy your marriage because they are unhappy. So follow your heart and stay together. BERT: You have to like the person before you love the person. Be best friends before marriage.
Ricardo & Jessica Barraza Married 8yrs
How long have you been married? RICARDO: We’ve been married for 8 years JESSICA: 9 years. 8 or 9 years, we just had an anniversary in December. How long were you together before marriage? RICARDO: A year JESSICA: Exactly a year when we got married How did you meet? JESSICA: We were working together. RICARDO: She was going to LSU and I was working full time. JESSICA: I actually had met him before. I used to work at another restaurant and a girl I used to work with started working at his restaurant. So a group of us got together and visited her at the new restaurant. I met him there. Was it love at first sight? JESSICA: No. (she laughs) I met him a second time when my boss went to check the restaurant out. She called me for a ride home and he was the bartender at the time. And so I met him again. He asked me for my number and I wouldn’t give it to him. RICARDO: We dated for at least two months then we knew JESSICA: And even after I started working at that restaurant…he asked me out in February and we didn’t start dating until December. He was very persistent What was the first date like? RICARDO: I don’t remember JESSICA: I don’t remember exactly what our first one-on-one date was. Before, we would go out in groups a lot. I do remember around whenever we decided to start dating, he came over and we watched the movie “Elf”.
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FEATURE How did you know he was the one? JESSICA: My brother-in-law was having a baby so my in-laws were in town for that and at the same time I had to have an emergency surgery. While I was recovering, I would be away from work for six week. And so when my in-laws were on their way back to Mexico, they asked if I wanted to come back with them. I don’t think they were expecting me to say yes but I did. I was minoring in Spanish and I really wanted to learn. I stayed about a month and a half in Mexico. Ricardo was still here, working, so I got to spend time with his family without him around. I think that’s when I realized. Do you have children? RICARDO: We have two girls. JESSICA: Yes, a two-month-old and a six-month-old. How do you maintain your relationship & romance while raising children? RICARDO: We have family help us out with the kids. With the two restaurants, we try to take the same days off to spend with each other. JESSICA: I would say more than the kids take from us, the restaurant takes from us. But you just have to make time for each other. We have a lot of late night date nights. As restaurant owners, our schedules are different for the rest of the world; we go out at like midnight or 1 o’clock in the morning. How did you get through your toughest time? RICARDO: Our toughest time together was working on the second location. There was a lot of supporting each other and teamwork. JESSICA: Whenever the restaurants weren’t doing the best that they should, we stayed encouraging to each other. Do you believe that opposites attract? RICARDO: Yeah, we’re different. JESSICA: He takes forever to make a decision. I can make a decision in five seconds. And he’s more quiet and reserved. I’ll talk to anybody. I definitely believe opposites attract. What is your advice for other couples? RICARDO: Stay focused on the relationship. JESSICA: Treat them how you would want to be treated in the relationship and they’ll reciprocate.
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BEAUTY & STYLE
Interview with a Gentleman
Author, Enitan Bereola Discusses His Latest Book Gentlewoman: Etiquette For a Lady, From a Gentleman BY TAMISHA MONET
“
I Have you ever witnessed a Lady? Not a woman, but a Lady. She’s a girl by birth, woman by maturity and Lady by choice. Do you remember how the sight of a Lady made you feel? Did she smile at you? Could you feel her warmth? Do you remember her scent of comfort and truth? Can you recall how difficult it was explaining what you witnessed when she strolled by? Her high heels were music; her stride was a song. She walked in greatness influencing nations with each step. Do you remember your first time? Well, when was the last time you saw her?” ** Enitan Bereola sets out to solve this mystery and much more with his second book: GENTLEWOMAN: Etiquette for a Lady, from a Gentleman. Bereola is the contemporary gentleman behind the Bereolaesque lifestyle movement. The word Bereolaesque itself is defined as, BEREOLAESQUE [Berry-ola-esk] -adjective: Highly appealing and pleasing to the human senses and mind; captivating; provides pleasure or delight, especially in appearance or manner; charming; alluring; attractive. Bereola is an award winning and best-seller author, life coach, public speaker, columnist, and etiquette and image consultant and celebrity ghostwriter.
Upon reading his first book, women were able to recognize a man is a gentleman by his actions and the distinct way he carries himself. Men received confirmation that being a gentleman is neither outdated nor old fashion and how adhering to mannerisms is a pleasantry that can surely reinforce its popularity in modern society. With many women learning profoundly from his first critically acclaimed book, How To Be a Gentleman - Bereolaesque: The Contemporary Gentleman & Etiquette Book For The Urban Sophisticate, even though it was written for the modern day gentleman, inspired him to pen, GENTLEWOMAN: Etiquette for a Lady, from a Gentleman. I was actually fortunate enough to interview Bereola, in the peak of his promotional campaign for Gentlewoman.
start to drift away from what you know to be right if it doesn’t hold any relevance. In society, the guy has to do very little to achieve his goal with a woman so why would he be interested in etiquette? The guys who are loud and boisterous, in the corporate America boardrooms, those seem to be the guys that are not only getting the job and but the woman. So, I had to bring that simple element to society and its benefits and get people on board. With the ladies book, Gentle Woman: Etiquette for a Lady from A Gentleman, I explored the mind of femininity in a contemporary society. So, you know from a gentleman’s perspective. So, that’s obviously a controversial standpoint.
Tamisha Monet: Would you mind giving us a synopsis of both of your books?
Monet: Considering the influences of pop culture and reality television, why is it more important than ever before to release your book Gentlewoman?
Enitan Bereola: The first book Bereolaesque the Contemporary Gentleman’s Etiquette book for the Urban Sophisticate is a book that tries to remind society about certain etiquette and present it a way that’s easily digestible and rebranded from what we commonly know etiquette to be. My goal was to present it in a way a younger generation would appreciate it, and a middle age group would be reintroduced to it, and its relevance. The reality is you
Bereola: For the exact question you just asked (laughs). Pop culture and reality TV have such a strong influence on our culture. Now, there is a group of women who consider going out to eat and dining at a restaurant a luxurious lifestyle. Everyone use to go out to eat as family, it wasn’t considered a high society thing until you started watching different reality shows. That’s what all the women would do, the women who are perceived to have money
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BEAUTY & STYLE would go out to these restaurants and have girl’s night out. This was something that was common to society in general but because reality TV has glamorized it; now, women have adapted that same lifestyle, its seen almost as a status symbol. You see on Instagram, people Instagramming photos of their meals at certain restaurants. That just goes to show the strong influence. Women are beginning to emulate what they see. Even the fashion, some of the accessories that was popular on these shows, you’re starting to see women wearing the same jewelry. The terminology, the slang is all very-very influential. Because of that power, some of it is positive you don’t want to say negative…a lot of it just doesn’t propel society. Monet: What distinguishes a gentlewoman from other women in general? What qualities must one possess? Bereola: There are several of them. I’d like to say the most important the ones or to hone in on are: treating your neighbor with respect, treating others the same or better than you want to be treated. Some of the same concepts from the gentleman book. It’s just a little different dealing with women in terms of sensitivity because I’m a man, so you know it’s tough for a man to communicate some of these things. I think a lot of times woman drift away from who they really are. Some women don’t know who they are. Some women drift away from it. Some women forget. Some women are jaded by love or experiences. So, they begin to rely on their selves, embrace independence and that comes with a lot of changes and behavioral characteristics. Sometimes, tolerance may be low, common decency is disregarded, its like a defense mechanism and self preservation mechanism but its terrible that it s came to that. Where it affects the way women treat each other and treat us, their men. So, just getting back to decency. Coming up in a brass society, a guy can have ulterior motives in a smile or good morning. So, naturally women’s defense mechanisms may be put up. This constant battle of seeing who is authentic and not disingenuous. It’s tough out there. Chivalry is being mistaken for thirst. I think it’s a matter of huge miscommunication between the sexes. If things were broken down to where each sex would be able to understand, I think that’s where the conversation should start, so that the healing may begin. I’m just trying to be the median, the liaison so to speak. So, both sides can have an understanding whether it gets a negative or a positive reaction. The ultimate goal is to understand one another. That’s like
my main job putting the shoe on the other foot. Once you understand something you can formulate a genuine opinion. A lot of our opinions are formulated in ignorance. If we were to formulate a genuine informed opinion. It can change your entire perspective on things, so that’s my overall goal. Monet: As far as our generation goes, what do you feel is the missing in the realm of love and romance? Bereola: The missing element? Monet: There may be more than one. Feel free to elaborate on that. Bereola: Well, I think the common one is not even knowing what love is. That goes even beyond our generation. That penetrates throughout all generations. The bible says love is patient, kind, forgiving and it doesn’t keep record of wrongdoing or isn’t boastful. If you don’t know what it is then you’re thinking it’s something its not, you’re responding to it in a way that you shouldn’t. It goes into miscommunication, so it changes your expectation. Now receiving love is beautiful. To give love is not what people think it is. It’s very selfless. It’s not as a mushy as it is to receive it. To receive it is a beautiful, flawless thing. You’re forgiven all the time; no one is remembering all the wrong you did. You’re almost viewed as this perfect specimen. To give love is difficult. It has to be learned. You have to have your faith firmly rooted. You have to know how God loves to truly love. When it comes to relationship you can directly see people don’t know what is because of their expectations. Everyone wants the benefits of love but they don’t want to love. I think that’s a huge issue not knowing what it is. The same goes for marriage, if you know what it is and what’s expected to give or offer. I think you’d see lot more marriages work out and there wouldn’t be as many divorces. Before you get married you need to address any misconceived notions about what marriage is. As far as romance, it has to do with the fact men will do what women allow it’s two fold. If women have their standards to where they should be…if a man think they’re too high because lazy. He’ll just move on to the next one until he meets the one with less resistance. The less difficult woman, man generally have a lot of options so he may not being willing to deal with a woman who demands romance, he just wants to send text message to get a lady to the house. And if he has plenty of options he will use them. The lazy man or even the man whose isn’t looking for anything serious or long
term. May just shoot a few text messages and get her to dinner. Or shoot a few text messages and get her to the house. And if he doesn’t want to do any of that extra stuff he won’t. Unfortunately, this is a sign of the times we live in romance isn’t necessary. But if women were to command it, it’s all about whose really in control. It’s not even a loss of power just recognizing the power is there. Taking control of it and being fully aware of it. Not taking advantage of it. Knowing what it is. You wouldn’t put a Rolls Royce on the market for $5; well you might if you don’t know what its value is. This is what happens when people don’t know the value of something. Monet: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment? Bereola: I think being married is my biggest accomplishment. With my background I saw myself wanting to get married but it was not an easy thing to do considering where I come from. So, I always had every option I wanted. I exercised every option. In terms of really settling down I didn’t know how quickly I saw that in my future although I always wanted it. And that’s a very tough challenge for any man or woman who’s accustomed to certain lifestyle. To be able to identify what you want, go after it and make the necessary changes to keep it. That’s more challenging and more admirable than any award in literature that I’ve received, or ghost writing for celebrities that’s I’ve done, best-selling book all these things I was able to accomplish at this age. Because I can do all that again. Anyone who is married, I don’t get into the details of how well their marriage is doing or anything like that. I just at the bottom-line, I’m always impressed because I know what it takes on a daily basis. It’s not like, “I’m married now. Let me get on with my life”. It’s consistent effort. I think when it’s done right, it’s beautiful. It’s all worth it. I put ahead of everything I’ve ever done. What good is all that other stuff without her? Its just stuff. We’ve got to put our priorities in order. We all have a bunch of goals but you have the keep in mind, what’s the purpose of it all? So, it is for ego, what exactly are you doing it for? Pairing up, being married and having that partner. Accomplishing it makes it that much easier, purposeful and rewarding. The bottom line is its beautiful. *Photos courtesy of Enitan Bereola **Excerpt from the book, GENTLEWOMAN: Etiquette for a Lady, from a Gentleman, which is AVAILABLE NOW on AMAZON. com
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BEAUTY & STYLE BEAUTY
More Than a Show:
Interview with Baton Rouge Fashion Week Founder, Brandon Campbell BY ELLE MARIE |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAM WILLIAMS
B
aton Rouge has had fashion shows before but Brandon D. Campbell, founder of Little Rock Fashion Week and senior director of Oneofakind Talent Inc., brings one of the first full fashion weeks to the capitol city.
Born and raised in Little Rock, Campbell received his B.A. in journalism and mass communications, with a minor in international studies and entrepreneurial certification from the University of Iowa. Campbell’s career began as an entertainment reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen, editor of the UI National Association of Black Journalist’s Nuru, and general assignment reporter for The Daily Iowan. After graduating, he wrote and produced celebrity television as well as writing obituary packages for FOX News Channel in New York City. Campbell entered the fashion and entertainment world as the producer for “E! Live from the Red Carpet” with host Ryan Seacrest and “Style Invade New York Fashion Week” with host (and Vogue Magazine legend) Andre Leon Talley and famed Jay Manuel, from “America’s Next Top Model”. In 2009, Campbell orchestrated his first fashion week in Little Rock. A few people were skeptical of his vision, not seeing Little Rock as a place where fashion would be greatly considered. But that didn’t stop Campbell. “What made me keep going is in my opinion is what should make anyone keep going when they have a vision.” Campbell said he received direction from God to act on his vision so that he could empower others. “If you are a spiritual person like I am, If God gives you a task or blesses you with an idea that’s going to benefit so many other people you realize it’s hard to ignore.” “It came very organic. It wasn’t like I sat down and made a list of the businesses that I could start. It was something that came to me very randomly while I was still on the East Coast. At the time my idea was to continue in entertainment, production and writing. My dream was to go back home to Little Rock and start production. But I always wanted to come back and do something for my community. So for me not to go through with it would have been, in a way, me being
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BEAUTY & STYLE disobedient not only to God but myself. The key thing
of the positivity being built as well as providing
when you are doing something big is to focus on the
opportunities for artist, for children, for community
yes more than the no’s.”
through fashion week.
Campbell made a career shift from journalism and
experience with the collaboration of local designers,
entertainment to owning Oneofakind and in 2009 he
models, etc. and it is open to everybody with an
coordinated the first Oneofakind Little Rock Fashion
interest in being involved in something that will benefit
Week. “It’s my production, it’s my brainchild. When
the community. Oneofakind is open to local designers
you have something you’ve given birth to you put
and out-of-state designers. Campbell encourages artist
more energy into it. I’ve always been very meticulous.
trying to get their feet off the ground, wherever they
I’ve always been a hard worker, from L.A. to New York,
are from. “If there is a designer in Los Angeles, trying
since I was in college. But for me to own my own
to get their line off the ground but are hitting road
business, I knew I had to take it up to another level.
blocks, come to Baton Rouge and launch your career.
Oneofakind’s success rides on how much I put into it.
Then you will see that the sky is the limit. We are
When you start a business it becomes your life. You
opening it up for all artists. Those involved will build on
have to lose yourself in it, not saying you forget about
the Baton Rouge community”.
Baton Rouge Fashion Week promises to be a unique
what’s important, which is people but you do have to dedicate everything to it. You have to be willing to
When asked, which show did he think would be the
sacrifice.”
most anticipated show of the week, Campbell said, “Our finale show, which is named, The Big Night will
After a number of conversations and much consideration,
definitely be the most anticipated show. The most
Campbell decided to bring fashion week to Baton
important thing for me is that everyone walks away
Rouge. “I’m a big fan of the state of Louisiana,”
having enjoyed their experience with us”. Campbell
Campbell said, “Particularly the New Orleans, Baton
also added that he is honored to come to Baton
Rouge, Lafayette areas. I spent a lot of time there when
Rouge. The feedback he had been receiving so far
I was working with World Wrestling Entertainment. I
has been very positive. From LSU being a great help
fell in love with Baton Rouge, the diversity, ideas, and
to Southern University. 2013 was a great success for
people”. Everyone he discussed his plans for a fashion
him on a personal and professional level and Campbell
week with understood his vision and the good that it
acknowledges it as a blessing to be able to start the
brought to Little Rock, it could do the same for Baton
New Year off with launching the fashion show in Baton
Rouge.
Rouge.
Brandon Campbell is one of those people who likes to share a good thing and recognizes that there are so
After the being a judge for the model casting call
many other people who can be impacted with fashion
and speaking to Mr. Campbell, we are definitely
week. Campbell shared how he went to Jamaica on his
anticipating, not only the finale show, but the entire
honeymoon and wore a “LRFW” t-shirt one day and
Oneofakind fashion week experience. Feb. 10-15, 2014
someone approached him, “Oh I know about Little
will be the first Oneofakind fashion week in Baton
Rock Fashion Week.”
He used this as an example
Rouge. The finale event will take place at the Capital
of how Oneofakind has been able to touch different
Park Museum. All other information can be found on
corners of the country and even overseas because
www.batonrougefashionweek.com.
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SPORTS
Eastern Confrence: You Are The Weakest Link BY JALEN GREENHOUSE
T
he NBA has hit a problem within its conferences that has stirred up a very interesting conversation. The NBA is currently apportioned into conferences and divisions, the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference. Usually, the Eastern Conference is the weaker of the two, but it has never been THIS BAD. The Eastern Conference looks to be a race between only 2 teams, those 2 teams being the Pacers and the Heat. The rest of the teams in the Eastern Conference look uncompetitive and unpromising. The East looks flat out horrible so far into the season, it is almost embarrassing to the brand of basketball for a conference to be so predictable, because no one besides the Heat or Pacers are going to come out of that conference and into the playoffs. The Nets and Knicks made some big off season moves and were expected to make an attempt to dethrone the defending champs in the Miami Heat, but from the looks of it they don’t seem to be a threat at all. With Jason Kidd being a brand new coach and the Nets having a entirely new roster captained by Paul Pierce, Deron Williams, and Kevin Garnett it’s going to take more than one year for them to compete with championship level teams, and they don’t have that much time being that the players that they traded for are all in the decline of their career currently. I really hope the play of the Eastern Conference changes and soon, because as of now they only have 4, yes 4 teams that are currently over 500% win percentage for the year. It is no excuse to why fans should be subjected into watching such a trash conference and not demand they see better competition. A lot of avid NBA fans have made a suggestion on what the league should do to eliminate this problem from continually happening, an idea has been floating around to get rid of the division in the conferences and to just let the best 8 teams in the conference get into the playoffs. The top division leader is currently guaranteed a top 4 seed for the playoffs, even if that team has an unimpressive record, as long as they are at the top of their division they are granted that privilege as far as seeding goes.
The way the East is looking now more than a
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few teams with bad records will be able to get a playoff birth, that will also make the draft lottery very confusing. Another solution some people had was to just get rid of the conferences period. Don’t have conferences just make it to where the best 16 teams would make the playoffs that way it’s a fair game for everyone involved. Anyway it goes if the mediocre play from the Eastern Conference continues, something will have to be done for numerous reasons. One reason is because with the West being an extremely tough conference, they laugh at teams in the East because teams in the West just don’t think they have it as bad in the Eastern conference, which may be true. In the Western Conference they are very competitive, each day the standings change, that’s just how close the conference is in wins. The Western Conference will probably be a 13-team battle the entire year. With improved teams like the New Orleans Pelicans, Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Dallas Mavericks looks to have their groove back after taking a step back last year, getting to the playoffs in the West will take a lot of hard work and consistency. With Kobe back healthy now, the Lakers may even sneak in the playoffs, so it will be a season worth watching in the Western Conference, just not too sure about the weaker counter conference. The improvement of the Eastern Conference is needed because if it stays as predictable as it is now the NBA will lose a hefty amount of views on games, and people will be reluctant to watching such mediocrity in a professional sport. A solution can be made if the continuation of being the mediocre conference continues. The Eastern conference has never been this bad, however, they should be given some time to prove themselves as worthy competitors in the NBA. The conference could get a little better but if the problem continues into next year then start looking at changes, but It will be horrible for NBA fans to watch the playoffs in the Eastern conference; there is no fun in predictability. I say this because it’s apparent that Miami and Indiana will be in the conference finals. NBA should let two seasons play out and if the Eastern Conference is still found lacking, then change needs to be discussed.
SPORTS
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Journey to the Tourney
BY QUINTON PAUL
T
o know where you are going you must first know where you come from. Let’s travel back in time a little less than one year ago. The date was March 21 2013. There was a #16 seed taking on #1 seed Gonzaga. It was a seed that no one could possibly think would last one half versus such a huge favorite. The team I’m referring to hailed from north Baton Rouge by the name of Southern University. That’s right, Southern, there’s no need to grab your reading glasses. The Jaguar nation traveled to Utah to face Gonzaga and be the most watched game that day. The Jaguars great conference play built a team that nearly pulled a huge upset. The favorite Gonzaga prevailed but the Jaguars made America aware that this young team was just as good as they come and would be back. Fast-forward to 2014 and the SU Jags are making good on that impression they left on the world. The Jags have built up from their accomplishments from last season and are making a strong case that they will return. Led by head coach, Roman Banks, the Jags have finished
the non-conference part of the season showing great promise. Although they finished 4-9, SU has jumped into SWAC play and are on a mission. They are making examples of everyone in their conference thus far in this season.
made national headlines. Therefore anyone who forgot about the Jags was aggressively reminded that the team out of Baton Rouge is definitely capable of blowing someone out before the started conference play.
With a roster having only four seniors and two as starters, the Jags are still a very young team. There is great leadership from players like forward (JR) Calvin Godfrey who averaged 13 points in pre conference play and is averaging 19.3 in conference play with 9 rebounds to add. Senior guard Malcolm Miller is being a major contributor also he took his 10 point average up to 16 in conference play. Guard Tre Lynch and Yondarius Johnson are averaging double digits as well. The Jags have great chemistry that was built in their non-conference games.
This will be a different year for the Jags as they move deep into conference play in preparation for the NCAA tournament. Some may think I’m speaking too fast. My good friend “The Great Qudeini” has assured me that just as he picked the Jags to take the title in football they will do the same on the court. SWAC opponents are mindful that Southern is on the national radar and who wouldn’t want to beat the team atop the conference. The competition will be thick but no one will be able to match up with the Jags from here on out the rest of the regular season. I expect them to loose no more than one more game in the regular season. I’m looking forward to revisiting this team at season’s end quoting that same line as I prepare readers for the Jags second straight appearance in the NCAA Finals tournament. Geaux Jags!
Teams that had more depth and talent out lasted the Jags this year but teams that lacked both those characteristics were destroyed accordingly. For example Southern faced Champion Baptist College and set an NCAA record. They defeated the lesser opponent 11612. That was a 104 point victory that
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SPORTS
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Clo The
U
sually, AllStar Weekend brings out the top athletes, hottest celebs, along with the most anticipated parties, events and all the cool kicks. This year we are getting a special bonus: All-Star Sneaker Summit! Started in 2004, the Sneaker Summit is the World’s Original Community Based Sneaker Event. A day
where heads can buy, sell, trade, and discuss everything from rare and collectible sneakers to the latest fashion and accessories. Starting off in local bars in Houston, Sneaker Summit quickly grew and in 2011, the Summit become the first sneaker and fashion event held in a professional sporting area, the Toyota Center. The following year, the event was moved
to the Reliant Center because more space was needed. This year All-Star Sneaker Summit will be held in the New Orleans area at The Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center on February 16 with the doors opening at 3pm. Over the years, the Sneaker Summit has attracted crowds in the thousands and people travel from all over the
FEBRUARY RELEASES FEB
8
FEB
Nike Kobe 9 Elite “Masterpiece”
14
Reebok Shaq Attaq “LSU”
Air Jordan Retro 6 “White Infrared” Air Jordan 6 GS Retro “Valentine’s Day”
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FEB
15
oset world to attend this event. As the sneaker culture evolves, we can expect the crowd to continue to grow and this will be an event that will be around for years to come. Visit sneakersummit.com for more information.
BY REGINALD JACKSON & MKTP
FEB
19 FEB
22
Nike KD VI “Aunt Pearl”
Air Jordan Retro X “Powder Blue”
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FEBRUARY LOCAL EVENTS Feb 8 – (LSU vs. Auburn) New Orleans Pete Maravich 3PM-7PM Assembly Center 3:00 PM -Mystic Krewe of Mutts Mardi Gras Parade Feb 9- Merle Haggard North Boulevard & Fourth Baton Rouge River Street Center Baton Rouge, La Baton Rouge, La 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 7:00 Pm Feb 17- (SU vs. Mississippi Feb 12- Disney’s “Beauty Valley State) and the Beast” F.G Clark Activity Center 9:00 PM ET Feb 13- R.Kelly with Tank, Big Sexy and JJ Williams Feb 19-(LSU vs. Mississippi Baton Rouge River St.) Center Pete Maravich Baton Rouge, LA Assembly Center 7:00 PM 7:30 pm Feb 21- Krewe of Artemis Feb 15- (SU vs. Arkansas Mardi Gras Parade Pine Bluff) Downtown Baton F.G Clark Activity Rouge Center 6:00 PM ET North Boulevard 7 p.m.- 10 p.m. Feb 16- ALLSTAR Sneaker Summit Feb 26-(LSU vs. Texas The Pontchartrain A&M) Convention and Civic Pete Maravich Center Assembly Center 7:00 PM
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Embracing Sexuality: Once and For All BY SHUNTEL JENKINS |
H
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC KILBY
ere’s the truth as I see it there is no such thing as a hoe in the way society defines one. I’m greatly annoyed that the word “hoe” is thrown around so loosely when referring to the sexual freedom of women. Even more so, I’m annoyed that some women choose to subscribe to this term. They base their acceptance of the word on the ideas of their male counterparts. Sexual freedom should be granted to people of each sex, all sexual orientations and to those with differing sexual preferences. Unfortunately, patriarchy rules the majority and has some women afraid to express themselves sexually for fear of being shamed simply for doing what comes natural to them. The double standard that it is more socially acceptable for men to have as many partners as they choose, and as often as they desire than it is for a woman is ludicrous. Not to mention how unrealistic to expect a “freak in the sheets” while simultaneously trying to humiliate a woman for being comfortable with her sexuality. Sex is natural, and it is not for one person to police the body count or the type of sexual acts one likes to indulge in.
Let’s talk briefly about sexual acts… In the African American community especially, certain behaviors in the bedroom are considered deviant, whether it’s same sex relations, or for black men, enjoying something seemingly not masculine. For example, some men don’t want their nipples licked or their assholes to be played with in fear of seeming feminine or having homosexual tendencies when that might be the furthest thing from the truth. Anatomically speaking, the truth is that the male g-spot is located in the prostate, and can only be stimulated through the anus. If a man chooses to do so, it should be perfectly fine and acceptable for his partner to please him in this way during heterosexual intercourse without him feeling embarrassed about it during and/or after. In all actuality, Merriam Webster dictionary defines gay as being: 1) sexually attracted to someone who is the same sex, 2) of, relating to, or used by homosexuals, 3) happy and excited, cheerful and lively. Therefore, a healthy sexual relationship involves each participant doing whatever is necessary and consensual in order to please the other. In a relationship of substance, the parameters of these acts is something that should be discussed in a healthy manner and without judgment
Since we are on the topic of homosexuality, men… it is sexist to think that lesbians are here to be fetishized by you. Don’t be fooled by the music/images of pop culture and by the portrayal of lesbianism in the porn industry. Most women who identify themselves as lesbians typically treat their relationships with the same level of respect and desire for monogamy as any heterosexual couple would. For some women, lesbianism is not a trend, phase, or girl-on-girl fling – some actually have never had, nor will ever desire a man’s penis, period. Ladies, the same concept applies to you in regards to homosexual men. When someone tells you what they like or don’t like, believe them. It’s not up to you to change their preference to your liking. Let’s all put our egos aside and respect the individual sexual preferences of others. Ultimately, sexual preference is a personal choice and sexuality can be very fluid. Attraction varies and is innate. So whatever you find sexually appealing is your prerogative; outside of your current partner, you owe no one an explanation for this, and anyone trying to impose their views on to you and tell you what to do with your body can go fuck themselves.
The back-page column is about free expression and giving a voice to those who would often be silenced. The thoughts and views on the back-page column are that of it’s author who we believe has a first amendment right to share those views. These views are not necessarily our views but in America every voice deserves an opportunity to be heard. - The Rouge Collection
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