2 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 3
Features 04 Kick-Start Words from our publisher 17 What A Year What A Difference a Year Makes
12
BUSINESS 06 Rouge Business Spotlight: Elizabeth Carter Interior Design LLC.
Health 8
6
8
Health Resolution
Challenge yourself with a New Years Health Resolution
10 Shredding Pounds Tips For Shredding Pounds After The Holiday Season
12 Winter Workout Dressing For Winter Workout
Relationships 14 New Relationships 101: This is Relationship Probation
ENTERTAINMENT
17
16 Artist Spotlight: Boo Milton A Indepth Interview with Rapper Boo Milton
22 Blurred Lines Blurred Lines: Shades of Music
Beauty and Style 24 Evolve Evolve Your Style
26 Fashion Etiquette Fashion Etiquette and Beauty Basics
27 Goodwill Hunting
21 4 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
10
How to Thrift and How to Know if Thrifting is for You
Sports
28 Baton Rouge Baton Rouge Talent Overload
KICK-START
PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHEIF Gary Chambers MANAGING EDITOR 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
Let me begin by saying Thank You for taking out the time to read The Rouge Collection. It has been an interesting journey to get our publication in your hands and we have enjoyed every minute of it. Over the past year we have worked diligently to earn the respect of the community of Baton Rouge, by writing on stories that may not get a lot of exposure as well as main stream media news. We’ve met more people than we could ever count through this journey and we take pride in knowing that many of you are a part of the hundreds of thousands views we’ve had on our website over the past year. Now as we take this next step into print journalism we are nervous yet excited, that we have the opportunity to share with you our thoughts on a wide variety of topics and hear back from you when you agree or disagree with us. We want to be the people’s magazine. Meaning we desire that you interact with us and let us know how you feel about different subjects. The Rouge Collection is not here to be a bland news source. We want to give you the freshest information from the most honest of perspectives.
BEAUTY DIRECTOR Laticia King CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shaquille Cossé Jalen Greenhouse Reginald Jackson Shuntel Jenkins William Johnson Elle Marie Tamisha Monet Viola Monroe Quinton Paul Willie Washington Ashney Williams The Rouge Collection LLC. is owned and operated by B. Cann, G. Chambers and S. Johnson
This year we are going to introduce to you a few signature issues that we hope to do each year if you enjoy reading them. We want to help you find out what’s awesome about this great city we live in and open your eyes to perspectives, concepts, and opportunities in our back yard that you may or may not have known about. I hope that you enjoy this first issue of our magazine and continue to support us as we grow, Thank You again and Welcome!
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 5
Business
Baton Rouge Business Spotlight:
Elizabeth Carter Interior Design, LLC BY Thelisa davis
6 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
Business
Interior designing is not what
down to education.
cation to maintain licenses. But Louisiana
most people would define as being a
After completing a four-year
is still a very traditional state. Some
designer. They don’t just come in and
accredited interior design program, a two-
people are just not wide open to change
decorate the house. There are more com-
year internship under a licensed interior
and may need some coaxing to step into
plexities to the profession. Elizabeth
designer, passing the National Council of
the 21st century when designing their
Carter of Elizabeth Carter Interior Design
Interior Design and Qualifications Exam
homes or businesses. “It’s just a matter of
has had over 20 years of experiencing
(a two-day licensing test), and being
staying on top of the game and educat-
the ups and downs of the business and
granted a license for interior design,
ing your client on new things that are out
it’s not all pretty colors and finishes.
Elizabeth founded Elizabeth Carter
there.”
Interior Design, LLC in 2001.
“It’s feast or famine. There is a
misconception that you could get rich
doing this. You can make a good living
Registered
very fixed in their ways and need to be
with
educated on the new ways to do things.
but it’s not just glamour. There are times
NCIDQ Certification and professional
Those things that could be better and
where you have more work than it seems
memberships in both the International
help their businesses [or homes] run
you can handle and then there are times
Interior Design Association (IIDA) and
more efficiently. There is new technology
where you sort of wonder where that
the International Facility Management
happening all the time.”
next job is coming from. But I love what
Association (IFMA).
I do. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
“There are many strengths that Elizabeth
uniquely as she provides designs based
Carter Interior Design brings to each
upon the needs, budget, image and busi-
when I was a senior in high school.”
client, through its diversity of project
ness practice of each and every client. “I
Elizabeth’s
profes-
experience, which includes corporate,
don’t believe that each type of facility
sion started when a Louisiana State
educational, financial, hospitality, medi-
should look alike, but rather each facility
University professor made a tour stop to
cal, retail and residential. We are an
should be one-of-a-kind, while still main-
her high school and explained the LSU
integrated design firm that manages a
taining the clients vision. It is always a
interior design program to her and her
project through all phases from schemat-
team effort between the client and the
classmates. From there, interior design
ic design through construction adminis-
design professionals. No project is too
became her life. Once she graduated
tration.”
large or too small for our consideration.”
high school, Elizabeth went on to earn a
degree in Interior Design from LSU and
Design, they work constantly with other
looks forward to assisting you on your
a minor in architecture. I’ve been loving
design professionals such as architects,
upcoming design project. She is here to
the field since.” she smiles. But this didn’t
engineers, graphic designers and land-
serve the public and does a great job
come easy or without any effort.
scape architects to provide the most
doing so, check out her website www.
Many people may not know
cohesive design and knowledge avail-
elizabethcarterinteriordesign.com and
that in order to hold the title of interior
able to each client. Elizabeth is involved
reach out to her when you purchase your
designer, you need a formal education.
from the beginning and as the job pro-
new home or get your new office space.
There is a specialty to the profession.
gresses.
She can be contacted by phone: (225)
While they hold similarity in the love of
Elizabeth shared that Louisiana
765-7457, fax: (225) 767-6402, or email:
art, color, and the beautiful things found
is a pioneer in being one of the first, few
ecarter@elizabethcarterinteriordesign.
in one’s surroundings – the difference
states that require a license for the inte-
com.
between a designer and a decorator boils
rior designer title as well as yearly edu-
interest
in
the
holds Interior
the
title
“People are very complacent,
of
“I was exposed to the field
She
Designer
At Elizabeth Carter Interior
Each of her clients are treated
Elizabeth Carter Interior Design
I don’t believe that each type of facility should look alike, but rather each facility should be one-of-a-kind, while still maintaining the clients vision. The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 7
health
challenge yourself with new years health resoulution By Camille Johnese
T
here’s no better time than the New Year to put old habits aside and gain a few new ones. You can try using the gym membership you paid for last January, make all your yearly appointments in one day, walk your dog a little longer like you promised, or start training for the 2015 Louisiana Marathon. If you don’t know where to start it’s no problem, here’s a few choices that are challenging but still interesting enough to keep you occupied well into the New Year. Try a brain boosting cleanse. Commit for 30 days to eating as many brain boosting foods as possible. Take this challenge a step further by eating only these types of foods and eliminating all others from your diet. You’ll enjoy researching and trying new types of eats. You can get started with things like: Salmon and other fatty fish. These are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and are important for brain memory and performance (cognitive) and behavioral function. Dark leafy greens, beans, meat or soy. These are rich in iron and vitamin B12. Iron is an oxygen carrier and your brain uses 20% of the oxygen in your bloodstream. B12 helps the regulation of the nervous system, reducing depression, stress, and brain shrinkage. Curry. It contains turmeric, a spice that contains the anti-inflammatory antioxidant, curcumin. Curcumin has been shown to boost memory and stimulate production of new brain cells. Celery, a rich source of luteolin, which may help calm inflammation of the brain. Crab, which is good source of vitamin B12. Pledge vegetarian or pescetarian for 30 days. Curious about the vegetarian life? Stop wondering! Start the New Year off by pledging veg for 30 days. Make the pledge official by visiting www.peta.org and filling out the pledge form and PETA will make
8 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
a donation on your behalf to the Fruit Tree Planting foundation, a charity that strategically plants fruit trees in areas where locals are under nourished. The trees are then used to provide fresh, healthy, and environmentally safe food to people who need it. In addition to the donation on your behalf, PETA will also send you emails with recipes and tips about transitioning into your new way of life (even if it is just a phase). If you’re not quite ready to take the full plunge you can test the waters by challenging yourself to become a pescetarian for 30 days. “What the heck is a pescetarian?!” It’s like a vegetarian with a twist. Pescetarians follow the same lifestyle guidelines as vegetarians, but also include fish (and generally other types of seafood, which is in a Louisianans favor) in their diets. Many people find this transition a little easier because fish still has somewhat of a meaty texture and the satiety comes quickly, just as if you were eating meat. You won’t get the emails from PETA on this one, but you’ll still be able to add it to your list of things you tried and conquered. Go you! Devote 30 days to meditation and selfdiscovery. Meditation Meditation has such a negative reputation with most people, but as a person who practices daily meditation, I can say that meditation has not only helped me improve as a person, it also helps keep me grounded mentally and spiritually. You may think that you need some special skills to meditate, but all you really need is a quiet space and an open mind. If you’re a beginner, try meditating for 5 minutes to start off and work your way up in 5-minute intervals as you start to feel more comfortable. Find a comfortable, quiet space and try to clear your mind. You can repeat a positive affirmation or scripture to yourself. Exercise A strong mind can’t stand alone without a strong body; they both depend on one another. During your 30 days of self-focusing, be sure to incorporate some type of physical activity. Yoga, jogging, biking, and
even walking are all things you can try. No matter what you choose, just keep moving. Remember that you should be exercising at least 3 times per week. Clean eating Perhaps the glue that holds this all together. Clean eating helps keep the mind and body in their best shape. What does it mean
to eat clean? Basically, eat whole foods, avoid processed foods and refined sugars, eat small meals throughout the day (about 5 or 6), and cook your own food. These few key points will help ensure that you get the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your body going and help eliminate artificial things that can be harmful to your health.
Pick a challenge and get started. Studies have claimed that habits can be formed in 21 days. Take 30 to bring in the New Year on a good note, as a new and healthier you.
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 9
health
Tips for
shedding
holiday pounds by Camille Johnese
W
e all know that the holi-
No way! You take your life back starting
and exercises that target your problem
days are a time to share
today! The healthy, fit, and happy you is
areas. Write down the different workouts
joy and laughter with your
still very much within your reach. It’s just
you plan to do for each day of the week,
friends and family, but for
up to you to put your best foot forward to
including stretches and cool down, and
most of us it’s also a time to over indulge
reach that goal.
be sure to follow your plan exactly.
on delightful holiday treats. We have our
Getting started
One rule of thumb I have is to never
plates out and ready from Thanksgiving,
The key to getting started is to
skip a Monday. Start your week of work-
to Christmas, to New Year’s and by the
stop putting it off. Most people say, “I’ll
outs on Mondays and pick two other
time the holidays are over we’ve put on a
start in a week.” The truth is the sooner
days you’d like to workout. For example,
few pounds and are more than likely dis-
you begin, the sooner things will begin to
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Monday
pleased with our appearances. It’s a tale
fall into place, making it easier to settle
and Friday could be reserved for your
as old as time (or at least since fitness
back into your old routine. Getting fit and
cardio days, and Wednesday could be the
has been important to humans).
staying that way is really a matter of dis-
time you use to focus on your choice of
You’ve fallen off the fitness
cipline and making it a habit to maintain
some type of strength training or station-
wagon. Are you the only one? No. Do you
that discipline. Take little steps towards
ary aerobics exercises.
feel like it? Absolutely! You can no longer
regaining your self-control.
fit into that cute little pair of skinny jeans
people on the go could be
or that awesome midsection-hugging
ing down meals and your workout plan.
shirt that looked so cute with everything
Write down all meals in advance for one
prepared with soy or almond milk; water
this past fall, and it’s discouraging.
week, then make it a priority to follow
So what do you do? Drown your sorrows
that meal plan. Same thing goes for
dressed with spinach, tomatoes, and
in a carton of your favorite ice cream?
your workouts. List your fitness goals
onion; water
10 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
Get things organized by writ-
Examples of weekly meals for Breakfast: old fashioned oats Lunch: turkey burger on rye
health
Dinner: grilled chicken salad
schedule at least 3 times a week for 30
people tend to stray from their healthy
made from spinach and romaine and
minutes or more.
lifestyle, so don’t forget your weekly
your choice of veggies, dressed with vin-
treat!
aigrette dressing; water
to allow yourself some flexiblity. To avoid
The Long Haul
Not only will this help kickstart
feeling like a prisoner to your health and
your weightloss process, because there
fitness routine, I recommend allowing
tine and turned it into your lifestyle;
is very little margin for error, but this
yourself a cheat day. The art of cheating
days, weeks, and months will pass and
will also help you build a routine that
is usually mastered best by those who
you’ll start to see your body doing more
will transition into you being healthy as
use the 80/20 rule. This simply means
and more great things. Not only will your
a habit, then to you being healthy as a
you eat healthy for 80 percent of your
body change, your way of thinking will
lifestyle.
cheat day and allow yourself to have 20
change and the way you feel about your-
Maintaining
percent of wiggle room. The key to this is
self will change as well. The best part is,
not to over do it.
next year during the holidays you’ll be
weightloss? Don’t get lazy! Be just as
more equipped to handle minor setbacks.
excited and motivated as you were on
chip cookies for my cheat day, I eat one
day one. Of course that’s easier said than
drink lots and lots of water with it to
pursuing your fitness goals right away.
done, but it’s more than possible.
allow my body to move what I’ve eaten
Stay focused and organized. You could
The key to maintaining your
The next thing to remember is
If I chose to eat two chocolate
Once you’ve established a rou-
Set your own pace but get into
The item that should be at the
through my system, wait an hour and
even encourage others to take the jour-
top of your list is exercise. None of the
then eat the second. This helps me to
ney with you. You’ve enjoyed your holiday
milestones you’ve reached in your life
not force my body to work harder than
feast, now go work it off! Incorporate
could be possible without maintaining
it has to. Cheat days shouldn’t be a day
these tips into your fitness plan and stick
some level of wellness. Exercising should
that we completely fall off. They should
to them, and in no time you’ll be living a
always be a priority to keep your body
simply act as positive reinforcement for
life of longevity, happiness, and peace.
fit and healthy. Be sure to incorporate
all the hard work we’ve put in. Forgetting
some type of physical activity into your
to reward themselves is the main reason
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 11
health
DRESSING FOR
WINTER WORKOUT BY Camille Johnese
T
hink it’s too cold to go for a run? …NEVER! All
less protection than your torso. Cold feet usually occur at football games and before marriage, not when you’re pushing the pace.
you need to remember is to dress properly for the
• Don’t take chances. Don’t tempt fate by trying to run too hard
weather.
During the winter it’s important to remember to stay warm. Even
and too fast in difficult weather. Take your workout indoors if the
though you may get heated because you’ve been moving around,
weather gets too extreme, or simply take the day off.
your body should still be kept warm to keep your core tempera-
• Find a friend. It’s much safer and more fun to train with your
ture regulated and avoid cold weather injuries such as frostbite.
friends in the winter. Everyone has trouble leaving a nice warm bed.
Frostbite happens when the skin and underlying tissues are
But, if you know that someone is waiting for you, it’s much easier to
damaged due to extreme cold weather, and is most likely to
get motivated. Accountability is encouraging. It is also much safer in case someone should get in any trouble.
happen to areas farthest away from the heart. You want to be especially careful with extremities, they are the
• Cars. Remember, any weather that makes conditions more hazard-
most likely to sustain injury in harsh temperatures.
ous for cars makes things much more dangerous for you. When run-
ning in rain, snow, or ice, you must be especially alert and cautious.
Let’s be honest, winter fitness can be somewhat
Be sure you wear reflective gear and always stay alert.
unpleasant. Most days you just want to stay indoors. Hopefully these tips on how to dress for your workouts will make it a bit
easier to stay the course and push toward your goals, even dur-
Examples of good winter gear choices
ing the not so motivating winter.
• Don’t overdress. Aim for a balanced approach to dressing that
out wardrobe.
will leave you warm, but not so hot that you start to sweat a lot.
• Start off with thermal underwear and other thermal garments
You don’t want to be too warm when you leave the house. Excessive
that have “wicking” power. Wicking garments pull moisture away
Layering is key. These are a few examples to help get
you on your way to building your perfect (and safe) winter work-
sweat and chilly weather do not get along.
from skin and through the fabric. Words to look for on tags
• Protect those extremities first. Keep your hands, ears, nose and for
include: breathable, Cool-max, and Dri-Fit.
men, the nether regions, protected. Your extremities are the most
• For your top layer, add something that traps body heat like
exposed to cold and wind and the most likely to be susceptible to
fleece. These garments should zip, so that you can remove them
frostbite.
easily, and fit comfortably enough that you have full range of
• Become a well-dressed runner. In cold weather, the secret is to
motion.
layer lightweight garments so the clothing works together to keep
• For bottoms, avoid jeans, street pants, and anything made of
you dry and warm. High-tech materials like polypropylene and
cotton. These items will trap moisture and leave you cold and
polar fleece are designed to keep your body temperature steady,
wet during your workout. Keep your legs covered but the amount
while wicking the moisture away from your skin to the surface
of layering you choose to do on the bottom is totally up to you.
layer of clothing. Because these fabrics “wick” rather than absorb
Since your legs and feet do most of the movement, they tend to
moisture, your clothes don’t get soggy and heavy as you sweat.
need less protection against the cold weather.
Obviously, this means you need to ditch that old pair of sweats and
• Remember to accessorize. Head, eyes, hands, and feet should
oversized cotton t-shirt.
all be areas of concern when considering which accessories to
• Dress flexibly. Put on your hat and zip up your jacket when you’re
purchase. For your head you’ll need a hat or headband. Up to
heading into a cold wind. Take the hat off and partially zip down the
60% of body heat can be lost through the head. For eyes, look for
jacket when the wind is behind you. The difference can be dramatic.
eye protection with 100 percent UV protection to protect from
• Your feet and legs are too busy to get cold. Your legs need much
harmful UV rays and also any debris that may get caught in the
12 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
health
wind. Hands and feet should both be covered with waterproof, moisture wicking materials that are also be lightweight.
Your workout routine shouldn’t have to take a back seat to the cold weather. You can continue exercising throughout the
seasons by simply being conscious and cautious about your workout attire during the colder months of the year. Stay active and safe this winter by following these winter workout safety tips.
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 13
Relationship
New Relationship 101 by viola monroe
F
aster than a speeding Bugatti... more powerful than the scent of Flowerbomb... It’s a bird... it’s a plane... it’s a floating Victoria Secret model... it’s just me. The woman that knows everything
about men, love and life. Call me Madame Viola “Love” Monroe. I exist to love and be loved. Viola Monroe, love child to Mr. Cupid and Goddess Venus. I was borne from love, with a golden arrow dipped in adoration and a cute little heart birthmark on my right butt cheek. I am the end-all-be-all to this thing called “love”.
Kidding. I don’t know EVERYTHING when it comes to
adorè. Yet, I’ve been through, and have seen, a little of everything and have picked up a few pointers along the purple brick road to love. With every new relationship I have been able to identify a few actions that make my testosterone kings tick... or ticked off. Thus, The Rouge Collection stork has delivered me to objectively dissect the social cycle of the relationship. What better place to start than at the beginning. A new relationship is one of the best, yet daunting roads taken in the journey to forever. It is in this awesome newness that the crucial part originates. This is relationship probation and Ms. Monroe is here to lay down the law...
His friends are HIS friends!! It’s nice to go on occasion-
al couple’s dates with his friends and even have a conversation with them when you are in their presence. It is NOT acceptable to invite yourself to All-Star weekend with him and his boys or be the only woman with the fellas popping bottles in the club. I’m exaggerating to prove a point. With time his friends will become your friends, hopefully. In a new relationship the concept is to get to know your man and his friends should not become an intrusion. It is not necessary to like everything or everyone he likes. Say it with me… “His friends are his friends.” Enjoy your new man and let him have his ole friends!
Keep your new man close but don’t push your friends
away. It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of a new romance that we too often forget about the people that existed
14 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
relationship when we were miserably living single. (Not that single is always miserable) I am certain that any woman that has found her Prince Charming has a few loyal girlfriends cheering for her in the background. Don’t forget or forfeit your friends for a man. They are the ones that will celebrate or cry with you during your wedding or breakup. New relationships require a lot of time and sacrifice but neither should affect friendships. “Chicks” over “Sticks”.
A smothered man is a miserable man. But he’s so
awesome and you wish you could spend every waking moment smelling his cologne. I understand completely. I understand it but I don’t condone it. Everything on this earth needs air to live, including a relationship. Don’t text him ten times, post on his Facebook how much you miss him, Instagram an old picture of you two and then pop up to the man’s house. Not only will he think you’re low-key psychotic but it also proves that you may be a very immature and insecure creature... the type that does not deserve the privilege of being in a relationship.
Ask lots of questions & honestly answer all questions.
A new relationship is like walking in complete darkness in a foreign land with no clothes or compass. You are opening your world to someone that you don’t know from the man in the moon. If he was good enough to make the cut as your man then he may ultimately become your lifelong partner. I, personally, want to know EVERYTHING about someone that has become a prominent portion of my life. Ask him about his life goals, current situation, pet peeves, siblings’ names, favorite position, middle name, and most importantly shoe size! (Joking about that last one) Openly tell him about your family if he asks about your background. Truthfully tell him why you are single when he asks about your ex. If he asks about sex partners you are allowed to plead the fifth (or estimate down). You will never know what you never ask and you can never tell him “I told you so” if you haven’t told him anything.
Don’t have too little or too much sex. It doesn’t take
a rocket scientist to know that sex is a necessary evil disguised in lingerie and karma sutra. If you’re totally against premarital sex then this price point doesn’t apply. However, if you choose to give up the goodies,ensure that they are rationed, regardless of how good his head is! Too much sex can cause a relationship to be based primarily on something that feels so good it temporarily conceals the bad. Not enough sex may make him wander and you lonely. Rule of thumb: Just enough sex to satisfy but not enough to pacify.
Be verbal! Far too many relationships crumble in the
early stage because one party or the other is afraid to voice concerns or dislikes. That’s dumb. If he doesn’t know what is annoying you how will the two of you work together to fix it? The man may be fine but he’s certainly not a mind reader. If he says something that hurts your feelings or doesn’t sit right with you then tell him without being a whiney, adult-sized brat.
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 15
Feature
WHAT A DIFFEREN
A YEAR MAKES 16 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
NCE
ES
Feature
By Thelisia Davis
At the end of 2012, three friends,
Brandi Cann, Gary Chambers, and Stephen Johnson, banded together to embarked on a journey that would mesh together a small family of journalist, models, photographers, and more - all young, spirited, African Americans (and one white guy).
Their vision was to enhance the
veiled diversity in the city surrounding them and to rally youth and young adults around a new form of information.
From
Day
1
The
Rouge
Collection’s pledge was to bring fresh writers with fresh perspective, ideas, concepts, that can shake up the city of Baton Rouge, LA and shape the future.
We have come to be the face of
our generation in Baton Rouge. Setting our own rules only slightly deviating from what those before us have established. We add a bit a flare, unconventionality, like that pop of red to bring out the personality in your best outfit.
I’m not sure what people sup-
pose from the outside looking in but ours is a story of perseverance, serendipity, and teamwork. Written from the staff perspective, The Rouge Collection is often a lifeline, and quite possibly a case of fate. “It’s been a joyous ride so far. I enjoy being a Ruby! Not only being a Ruby but also taking the responsibility of being a Head Ruby. I can honestly say I have never seen a company that started from the bottom, rise so quickly. It shows that if you put your mind, heart, and soul into something you can achieve anything. I think the bigger focus is bringing something urban, positive and fresh to a community that had very little to none of all
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 17
Feature the above,” says Aviance Mars, Head Ruby.
And it’s high time that we steer away
Just before Reggie turned away from
Aviance Mars, along with Blake Arceneaux,
from the negative reputation and place
his aspirations he became a part of The
were two of the first to hold the title
an emphasis on more aspects of BR liv-
Rouge Collection team.
“Ruby of the Month”. They began model-
ing. We are more than just “jigga music”
ing for The Rouge Collection (TRC) in
and college football games.
other fellows had started a magazine
December 2012, at the very start of the
Although we have a lot of fun
with a ‘Sneakerhead’ department so I hit
magazine, and are now the heads of the
covering entertainment too. Our sports
her up and helped her put together the
Rubies, an important part of The Rouge
writers, Quinton “Q” Paul and Jalen
first shoot in January. After, I asked could
Collection. With the Rubies, TRC created
Greenhouse add personality to every
I be the writer for the sneaker division.
a unique opportunity for young ladies
article they write. Q reflects on reaching
Finally someone had given me a chance.
throughout the city to model, who would
half a million views in October on the
Everyone knows I love shoes but to have
not normally get the chance.
website, “When I saw that the site had
a place to write about it and to have the
It’s an attempt to show the
over 500000 views it let me know that
support of all these great people I have
women in our community that they are
bringing my ‘A Game’ is key to my success
met, words really can’t explain it. Putting
beautiful, valued and that they can give
as a writer. Looking back over my first
together sneaker shoots, writing articles
back. The Rubies go beyond modeling
article I am proud of my writing and want
and all the other things I do wouldn’t be
and participate in community service
to continue to make every story better.”
possible without The Rouge Collection
throughout Baton Rouge while compa-
Throughout the year, The Rouge Collection
staff. We laugh and we joke but we also
nies have the option to sponsor them
entertainment department, namely Willie
work extremely hard and honestly I feel
to give momentum to their efforts.
Washington and Brandi Cann, reviewed
I didn’t get picked for all those other
Ultimately the result of their service will
some of the most talked and anticipated
magazines for a reason.”
be encouraging community wealth and
Hip Hop and R&B albums, written blurbs
health.
on memorable happenings in the year
people of Baton Rouge in on the history
“I heard Brandi Cann and two
That reason was to let the
Community health, also the goal
and has interviewed several of Baton
and art appreciation that comes along
of TRC health and fitness editor, Camille
Rouge’s underground and upcoming art-
with being a sneakerhead.
Johnese. “I never really struggled with my
ists.
weight until I became an adult. One day,
From our first interview with
department. The Rouge Collection beauty
I decided that weight loss was a struggle
rapper, Ronny My in April 2013, we’ve
and style writer, Tamisha Monet is always
that I had had enough of and I wanted
been on a mission to place a face (or
ready to show readers how to look good
to make a change. As I embarked upon
faces) to local Hip Hop.
from head to toe. Her lookbooks, style
my journey [with The Rouge Collection],
“My experience with The Rouge
guides, beauty tips and how-tos have
I could potentially inspire others to start
Collection has been full of excitement.
been inspiring our readers since she
their own journeys. The fact that I love
TRC has introduced me to a lot of ‘con-
joined the TRC family in May 2013.
writing as much as I do was just bonus.”
nections’. Not always famous people but
One of her most popular articles,
a lot of people that enjoy the same hob-
growth in such a short period of time.
“Should You and Your Partner Stop Using
bies as I do, a lot of people that I proba-
The Rouge Collection will continuously
Condoms?” was written in February 2013.
bly would’ve never met otherwise.” Willie
grow and be a great representation of
It generated much discussion on STDs
says with Reginald “Reggie” Jackson in
the city of Baton Rouge. We have a strong
and STIs. A topic we all know affects the
mind.
team who does their best to represent
city of Baton Rouge almost devastatingly.
In March of 2013 Reggie,
the brand in the best ways possible. It’s
It’s Camille’s goal to illuminate the issues
brought his fresh perspective to the sec-
an honor and privilege to make my con-
of health in our community, be it sugges-
tion of The Rouge Collection magazine
tribution to the publication as a writer
tions for diet plans or bringing aware-
dedicated to a rising subculture called,
for their style and beauty department. I
ness to the AIDS and HIV status of the
Sneakerhead.
couldn’t ask to work with more passion-
city. She says, “I am here to inspire others
ate, devoted and creative people.”
to strive for a healthy life of longevity,
and started collecting and learning more
love, and happiness. Being the health and
about them, all I wanted to do was to
The Rouge Collection will continue to be
fitness writer for the Rouge Collection
be featured in one of the sneaker maga-
prosperous. We have a winning team, we
has been a key factor in me realizing
zines. I sent photos and sample articles
have the drive, we take the initiative. We
that. I look forward to doing what I do
to Sole Collector, Kicks on Fire, Sneaker
will triumph any obstacles that comes
everyday because what I do comes from
Files and never got a chance to show
our way. ‘And we know that in all things
my heart.”
what I could do.”
God works for the good of those who
18 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
“Once I really got into sneakers
The same goes for our fashion
“We have shown phenomenal
“I have high expectations that
Feature love him, who have been called accord-
“When you finally realize the value of
the door for people to be in my life that
ing to his purpose.’-Romans 8:28.”
teamwork, you have reached a major
make me want to be better, people that
A year has passed and we are
milestone in life. Working as a team is
care enough to push me to my full poten-
still growing, learning, and positioning
something that has to be done on a daily
tial. The Creator has a divine purpose and
ourselves to be closer to our commu-
basis by The Rouge Collection staff to
plan for us all. It is up to us to follow
nity. We are working toward making an
keep things going. When you realize the
His clues and unlock the doors to the
impression and permanent mark on the
value of the people you’re on that team
opportunities He has put in place for us.
city of Baton Rouge and like Camille says
with, you can begin sharing wisdom with
Each door brings us one step closer to
it’s going to take teamwork.
others. The Rouge Collection has opened
realizing why we are here.”
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 19
entertainment
Artist Spotlight
boo milton BY Thelisia Davis
E
manuel Milton, who goes by the moniker “Boo
over looked a lot when things go right but I am always looked
Milton” is not only carving a name for himself
at when things don’t go as planned. This is just something all
as one of Baton Rouge’s most popular rappers,
leaders have to go through and understand.”
but the guy isn’t even in his 20s and is the head
“I love my team and after many years of changing other
of a production enterprise, in his second semester of college at
people’s lives, as well as each others lives, we have became a
University of Louisiana at Lafayette, currently working on his
family.”
next mixtape and has so many plans for 2014.
Boo Milton is the 18-year-old rapper that gave Baton
things get difficult. The young man wears plenty of hats; student,
Rouge a dance anthem called “Start the Line” featuring Lee
founder, entertainer and to someone who isn’t in the industry or
Banks and Percy Keith off of his last mixtape, 2 Sides, 1 Story.
has never had to manage more than one task all at once, it can
Toward the beginning of last year, Milton released 2 Sides, 1
only be imagined how heavy those hats can be.
Story and almost immediately started constructing his latest
tape, working hard to give fans new music which is scheduled
shows, getting my music out to DJs, networking, managing my
to release late January 2014. It’s called “Hustle Hard Never Fail
group (Point Blank Fam), etc. It’s difficult because you have to
or HHNF for short.” It’s only fitting to name his mixtape like this,
do a lot of things independently, having to come out of pocket
being that he is no stranger to hard work.
for everything. But the benefit is eliminating a third party and
Having that family and support comes to aide when
“It’s hard because I do everything on my own: booking
Before graduating from McKinley High School, Milton
receiving direct profit in the end. Also, at the end of the day you
started Point Blank Productions. “Four years ago my friend,
have the satisfaction of knowing you accomplished something
Donald Conerly, and I were trying to decide a name of a com-
without taking the easy way out and owing someone.”
pany we could start to bring entertainment to Baton Rouge in
a safe non-violent way. I came up with the name Point Blank
the end it is pays off because we are making money with the
Productions but he didn’t like it. So I used it anyway and started
people we love while changing the lives of people we entertain
building the company on my own.”
positively.”
“It started off with me shooting videos for well-known
“Through out all the stress and work that we put in, at
Positivity is a huge concern for Boo Milton that shows
local artist and major events that were taking place in Baton
in a lot of his music. With a diverse sound and feel good music,
Rouge and as I kept shooting these videos the name Point Blank
he says he wants to break away from music that has no feeling. “I
Productions became more popular. One day I was thinking, ‘How
feel like artists focus too much on off the wall lyrics than they do
can I take this to another level?’ so I came up with a plan to
on quality music that will touch someone. They try to use these
get the most popular rappers and party throwers at my school
large words, similes, and metaphors that rhyme, but when you
at the time to join together to create a super team of people
really break it down they’re not really saying anything.”
who would be working together to help each other to reach our
full potential. As I imagined, this plan worked and ever since I
Whether you’re in the car on the way to the club and want to
have been leading my team to do what other people in my city
get hype, had a bad break up and are ‘in your feelings’, or just
thought was impossible.”
feel like being alone and want to vibe; I try to make music for
all those times.”
Anyone running a business or leading a team can
“Personally, I like to make music that you can feel.
understand that standing in the face of opposition has its ups
and downs but always proves to offer a silver lining. Boo Milton
than to miss out on feeling an important emotion. “While mak-
admits that he is no exception and that he has had to deal with
ing this type of music, I learned that it’s alright to try to make the
His focus is to have a listener enjoy the song rather
some of the grey clouds of doubt when dealing with his produc-
listener think, but when you go over their head too much they
tions company. “My experience with Point Blank Productions has
tend to over think things and spend more time trying to figure
been the most stressful but satisfying thing I have ever done in
out what you are talking about, rather than just enjoying the
life. Being founder means that I lead my team. My hard work gets
song.”
20 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
Entertainment
“When you’re in the club and just want to hear a hype
song, you’re not trying to think hard. You just want to feel the music. Or when you’re crying, you don’t want to analyze the lyrics, you just want to hear something you can relate to or that makes you feel better. I want to be able to touch people on a mental and emotional level. This is why on some of my songs I choose not to go as in depth about a concept.”
“Overall, I want my music to be enjoyed. I promote fun
throughout a lot of things I do and I try to portray that in my videos. Music is often an outlet for people to escape stress in life. This is why I try to make relatable, feel-good music that people can use for whatever they may be experiencing.”
With his upcoming mixtape, Milton concentrates on
producing more relatable music for his fans by taking a little turn from the 2 Sides, 1 Story motif.
HHNF anticipates features from artists like Chris James,
TuPurp, Luke St. John, DLain, Danielle LaRoach & JetFly Jumanji but unlike the first mixtape where Milton considered only three songs to be “very personal”, HHNF will be the mixtape that allows fans to look into who Boo Milton is as a person. He says this project will “consist mostly of songs that tell my life story and let my fans know why I am so ambitious.”
Ambitious is a word that almost falls short of describ-
ing how much this young man is determined to succeed. Before he began rapping, he wrote poetry. In second grade, Boo recalls having a book filled with his poetry. “I wrote down everything. So in a way it’s like I’ve been rapping all my life.” “I started rapping in the 6th or 7th Grade. I made my first song with my cousin Braxton called “They Gone Hate” to the instrumental of Hurricane Chris’s “Aye Bay Bay”.
The expectation for Boo Milton’s upcoming project is
heavy especially because he came out of the gate with some hard hitters as far as features from some big name Louisiana performers. For his previous mixtape 2 Sides, 1 Story, features included rappers like Kevin Gates (Atlantic Records), Percy Keith (BWA) Max Minelli (Y$E), Lee Banks (BadAzz Ent.), Mouse On Tha Track (Trill Entertainment) & Big Head (Black Balloon Records).
“On Hustle Hard Never Fail I chose not to collaborate
with any major artist because I already did that on 2 Sides, 1 Story. I figured I have already done songs with the hottest rappers from Louisiana so I should try something different on this next mixtape. I will be working with a lot upcoming artists that have their own small fan bases to get them and myself more exposure.”
“My first mixtape 2 Sides, 1 Story everyone was won-
dering who is this kid that they have been hearing about and when I released it they finally got a chance to find out. I passed out 1000 copies of the mixtape and still managed get over 1,300 downloads and land on DatPiff.com’s Hottest 8 Mixtape List...
Read full article online at www.therougecollection.
com
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 21 The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 21
blurred lines: shades of music By Shaquille Cossé
I
listen to Gospel in the
tions of race and music.
to the fact that these deeply emotional
mornings to start my day,
One of my biggest pet peeves
and expressive hymns seemingly boosted
I’m a big fan of Marvin Sapp,
is hearing someone say something like,
the morale of the slaves. What they didn’t
and William McDowell. My gospel playlist
“Why are you listening to white people
know was that while they were enjoying
usually follows my prayer and scripture
music?” or “That white girl listens to black
the catchy tunes the slaves would spill
reading, I call it “solo church”. I listen to
people music.” when observing what they
out, they were actually communicating
Rap on my way to work, usually gangster
think are unconventional music choices
with each other using lingo only other
rap. I relate the hustling stories to how
for others. The truth is — there’s no such
slaves would understand, but that’s nei-
I need to hustle through my 9-5. Jay-Z
thing as “white people music” or “black
ther here nor there. But that scenario
often times tell stories of his struggles
people music”.
serves as an example of how music can
in the Marcy Projects of Brooklyn, New
be enjoyed regardless of how the listener
York, and one of my favorite songs is
used as a bridge over the struggle of rac-
relates to the message.
“Brooklyn We Go Hard”. Jay’s metaphors
ism, segregation, color lines, and harsh
and story telling can be so compelling
stereotypes. I’ve discovered that even
side of the experience that created the
and motivating. I listen to a lot of Pop
old negro spirituals sung by slaves dur-
songs, but they enjoyed the music. If even
Rock throughout the day to keep an
ing their time of work, were found to be
in the most oppressed of times, whites
even keel mood, Plain White T’s, The Fray,
quite entertaining to their masters and
& blacks could share a common inter-
James Blunt, or The Script usually does
overseers.
est in music, why can’t my iPad shuffle
the trick. So take this into consideration
Spirituals were actually encour-
from “99 Problems” one minute to “I Saw
when I say I hate narrow-minded percep-
aged by the masters and overseers due
Her Standing There” the next? Why can’t
For generations, music has been
No, they did not share the same
of recognition in the mainstream music industry from working with big names like Pharrell Williams and Marsha Ambrosious, and it has nothing to do with color and everything to do with talent.
There have been a number of
Caucasian artists to celebrate some success in a usually African American dominated R&B and Rap Game. Jon B jumped on the scene in 1992 as a songwriter. While shopping demos, he caught the attention of Babyface, and began writing songs for After 7, Toni Braxton, Color Me Badd, and even Michael Jackson. Jon B’s first album, Bonafide earned him a Grammy Nomination and went certified platinum. Jon B’s second album Cool Relax featured I, a 21-year-old African American music play Ray Charles, and I became such a the chart topping single “They Don’t Know” junkie, be a fan of The Beatles, Jay Z, and fan of Ray’s music. I remember hearing and the album went double platinum. Ed Sheeran? Or even newcomer, Daley
Justin Timberlake came along a “Georgia” for the first time, and being so intrigued at the soulful, and seem- little later and has enjoyed a long and suc-
I discovered Daley in the inbox of my always-packed email, via my Executive ingly realistic story he was telling. When cessful career, migrating from lead singer Editor, Thelisia Davis. Thelisia decided I first heard Daley I thought to myself, of a boy band to now mega Pop superstar. Me Of You” single following my “Where’s
“This brother has soul.” But upon further Although Justin’s music can be considered research, I discovered he wasn’t even a Pop, his albums are filled with soul and
R&B?” article. I instantaneously became a
brother.
to send me Daley’s “Songs That Remind
melodious ballads showing his Baptist and
British, Memphis, TN roots. Read full article online at of the song reminded me of the Blues my Manchester born, Soul singer/song writer grandfather would play on Sunday eve- who happens to be white. In a very short www.therougecollection.com. fan of how soulful he was and the melody
nings after church. My grandfather would
Gareth
Daley
is
a
amount of time Daley has gained a lot
EVOLVE
YOUR STYLE By Tamisha Monet
W
ell, hello there! Welcome to 2014! Right now
best YOU forward.
you are probably very busy executing your New
Year Resolutions, putting those plans into full
Even if you put on the very most expensive clothes and makeup
POSTURE
effect. However, I don’t particularly care for the
and have perfect knowledge of etiquette, when you stand
term resolution. It seems a little cliché and inherently insinuates
round-shouldered and sit bent, you will spoil the very image
there’s a problem within you that needs a solution. Hence, the
that you’ve tried so hard to build. Perfect posture will give you
word ‘re-solution’. I prefer the term evolution.
prominence in a crowd and will strongly influence your image.
Instead of reinforcing those New Year Resolutions that
HYGIENE
you break every year (faithfully might I add), why not work on
You simply cannot be too clean or too well spruced. Personal
evolving yourself? Moving pass your problem areas and chang-
hygiene is extremely important. It goes beyond just making
ing gradually into the best you, you’ve always dreamt of being.
yourself presentable but being aware of your health. Teeth and Breath
However, these changes cannot manifest overnight. And you
have to start somewhere.
“Good teeth are a luxury of rich people”. White, perfectly formed
If you were seeking to start a new chapter in your life,
teeth are essential for a nice smile. If the budget allows – invest
where would you start? The most common beginning point (and
in your teeth. If not, take good care of them and see your dentist
easiest to see instant results) is recreating your image, which
regularly.
determines what you project to the world and how you’re per-
ceived. As shallow as it may seem, your appearance can be a key
with others, but also in communication with our own bodies.
part in your personal evolution.
Having bad breath can sometimes be a result of sickness, a
stomach disorder, or disease of the mouth… so pay attention to
In a perfect world, we would get to know a person and
Fresh breath is important not only in communication
determine who they are by their morals, values and their attri-
your breath.
butes to a society. However, we live in the real world, a world
where books are almost always judged by their covers.
Your hair gives you a perfect tool to improve your image.
Keeping your hair in good condition – clean, well cut and/or
Consider these aspects of yourself to help you put your
24 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
HAIR
styled, improves your overall image. Choose what’s right for your
them up! Seeing your boxers exposed can tarnish the image
complexion and body type.
you’re trying to build, gentlemen.
Also, remember to routinely remove any unwanted hair
from areas of your body other than your head. For women, hair
ACCESSORIES
in the wrong places is considered one of the strongest enemies
of basic femininity.
Pick the right jewelry for your ensembles. You should invest in
at least one quality watch, which is a necessity for any wardrobe
Hands and Nails
Jewelry
Take good care of your hands. Use moisturizing creams on hands
and can be worn with almost any look. And remember, when it
and feet regularly. Keep nails a reasonable length and ladies
comes to jewelry, sometimes less is more.
should always repair chipped polish. If keeping up on chipped
polish isn’t for you, simply keep your nails well groomed and
Keep your shoes in a good condition. Clean, neat shoes will make
clear.
a sharp, classy impression. My grandmother used to say; “There is
CLOTHING
Shoes
no other thing as important than good shoes and fabulous hair.”
It is important to have clothing that fits properly. When choos-
Good shoes can compensate for other ways you may miss the
ing garments, choose styles and sizes that flatter your body
mark in the wardrobe department.
type. Well-fitting, stylish clothing can do wonders for all types
of figures.
areas you’d like to improve in your life on a quarterly basis. Track
Avoid wearing out of date styles. For example, wearing
your progress daily, or as often as possible. As time passes you’ll
an outfit from the 80s in the 21st century, even if it has been
reflect on where you’ve been and the progress you’ve made,
your favorite decade, its time to move on. Let it go.
which will make it easier to get to wherever it is you’re trying to
Underwear
There are four quarters in a year, if it helps, work on the
be. This will become such a routine that you’ll accomplish the
Although some women consider it stylish and sexy to expose
goal at hand and strive to challenge yourself to conquer even
their underwear, when going for a certain look-exposed under-
bigger and better ones. Remember, it only takes 21 days to make
wear (regardless of how “attractive”) will certainly dampen a
or break a habit.
classy image.
shall we?
And guys…Pants, on the ground, pants, on the ground
Let’s begin our journey to transition into greatness…
looking like a fool with your pants on the ground. Seriously, pull
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 25
Beauty & style
Fashion Etiquette and Beauty Basics By Elle Marie
F
ashion tip to remember: “No matter how stylish your
one of the hottest trends today.
outfit is beauty always comes from within your own
self-confidence”.
direction to your look:
Fashion Etiquette is no longer as stringent as it
Here or some “Blazer wearing styles” to give a stylish Wear it with jeans but instead of the classic dark wash,
was in the past. People today are encouraged to experiment
pair it up with distressed, acid wash or any jeans that look trendy.
with clothing and style. However, there are still some key
Mini dress. The perfect balance between sexy and sleek. A very
fashion rules to consider when shopping or dressing, whether
hot party outfit look. Basic tee. Laid-back yet
you’re planning for a job interview
or a night out on the town. While
chic. Top it off with a stylish neck-
standards or trends might change,
lace and bracelets
some key points of fashion etiquette
never go out of style. Here are three
with a scarf in your favorite design.
A scarf. Spice it up a little Shorts. For a fresh and
simple fashion etiquettes to keep in
mind: The Beauty of Basics, Avoid
super-cute look, pair it with smart
Accessory Overkill, and how to dress
or denim shorts. If it’s cold outside
for the Event.
add ribbed or opaque tights into
The Beauty of Basics
the mix. Slacks. Can give off mas-
It’s great to buy into trends, but you
should also have some basics in your
culinity but still cute and chic. Just
closet. This way, you will have a nice
be sure to feminize the outfit with
balance of clothing with which to
jewelry that accents this look such
work. For example, you should also
as studs or a long, but not super
take the time to find such staples
long, sleek drop earring. Color blocking. Color blocking can work with a blazer.
as a classic white button down shirt, blue jeans, blazer and/or
a black belt. Classic items like these are timeless and can be
If the blazer is your focal point work with that color to enhance
paired with trendy items to create a winning ensemble.
the steps of the color block blend. Don’t color block any more
Avoid Accessory Overkill
than 2 to 3 colors
Accessories can really make an outfit seem that much more
complete. However, be careful not to wear too many accessories.
women:
You want accessories to add something to a look. Too many
necklaces, bracelets, belt and hats can make you look slack.
but you will look your best in blazers with a nipped waist to
Dress for the Event
Here or some “Blazer wearing tips” for different figure Hourglass: You will look good in all types of blazers,
accentuate your narrow midriff. Pear: Short or cropped blazers will give the perfect
Another key piece of fashion etiquette is dress for the event or
meeting to which you are going. For example, you would dress
proportion to your body shape, making your curves less notice-
differently for a job interview than you would for New Year’s.
able.
What’s appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for
Inverted triangle: Longer styled blazer with a little bit of flare at
another, but certain environments dictate different clothing.
the hem will complement your shape. Also look for pockets on
A Stylish Direction…
the bottom sides (not on top) to draw the eye downwards. Rectangle: You will suit most boyfriend blazer styles.
Speaking of blazers, they can be the essential piece of your attire
for the night to give it that class, jazz or stylish look you set forth
As long as you add dimensions such as flared hem, rolled up
to pursue, and adding that pop of color to a simple look always
sleeves, pockets, etc. you will look good. You can also wear a
sets off your own fashion statement. The boyfriend blazers are
straight cut blazer open to hide your undefined waist.
26 • The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com
Beauty & style Apple: Your main focus should be to slim down your
great personal style and can look as though you are trying too
upper body with a black blazer and also create a waist with
hard. Fashion is ever-changing, but if you stick to having these
something that cinches at the middle.
key classic pieces in your wardrobe you can never go wrong with
Fashion is used to express yourself, to serve as an annex
staying in style. Wear your best color, have a timeless approach,
of your personality. True style is really learning to take a look and
dress for the occasion, pay attention to details and wear clothes
make it all your own. No one wants to become a fashion victim.
that fit.
Wearing too many trends at once crosses the line from having
GOODWILL HUNTING How to thrift and how to know if thrifting is for you By: William Johnson In the past few years thrifting has
ite blazer, pair of jeans, sweatshirt, or
become increasingly popular and truly
whatever. Let go of your inhibitions.
it’s a shopping technique that I feel more
people should learn. But alas, many see
Goodwill is probably the most popular.
it as a grave undertaking of musky gar-
But there are more in the city. Here Today
ments and apparel crowded shops, time
& Gone Tomorrow, The Salvation Army,
consuming at it’s best and a waste of
Dirt Cheap, A Little Bit of Everything
energy at its worst. But the key to thrift-
Resale…the list goes on. Some simple
ing is that it shouldn’t be a burden but
searching, shopping, trial and error will
an adventure!
help you find a store to make your go-to
thrift shop.
When I go to my favorite
2. Find your favorite thrift store.
Goodwill I’m always elated to see what
various articles of clothing I will find. It’s
(hunt)
a treasure hunt for me. I see thrifting as
So my rhyme didn’t quite come together
a stress reliever and on top of that I get
but you and some prized clothing items
a great bargain. I get to have a shopping
will if you have patience. If you’re not
spree without hurting my wallet…that’s a
already a shopper then thrifting may not
plus. Let’s say you have been wanting to
be for you. If you’re a shopaholic then you
start thrifting but don’t know where to
already understand the dedication shop-
start or that you are sick and tired of pay-
ping takes. Patience is the second most
Brothers, Lacoste, and Banana Republic
ing $30 for one thin cotton t-shirt, it may
important thing to bring with you on a
just to name a few.
be time for you to consider four basics to
thrifting trip. The first is money, the third
The local thrift shop could be your
thrift shopping.
is hand sanitizer.
paradise and little piece of Heaven on
earth. It can help build a wardrobe if you
1. You can’t be too proud to
3. Take pleasure in the treasure
4. Look Hard.
thrift.
Some clothes may be new or very mildly
are into retro style and be a real pocket
I know that some people will always
used (new-ish). These gems make thrift-
saver if you are living life on the frugal
want everything new. Nothing is wrong
ing that much more rewarding. It’s like
side. If you could really use a break on
with that. Something you HAVE to buy
going into your grandmother’s candy
clothing prices or if you want to find
new and there is no way around it (i.e.
jar and finding Snickers®. Scrutinizing
one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, thrifting
underwear) But there is also nothing
almost every piece of clothing when
will be worth it.
wrong with recycling clothes. Turning
shopping has lead me to find some of
I hope my tips on thrifting gave you a
your nose up at vintage clothing could
my favorite clothes. I still get my favor-
better insight on the subject, now go and
cause you to miss out on your next favor-
ite brands like Ralph Lauren, Brooks
enjoy your Goodwill hunting!
The Rouge Collection • www.therougecollection.com • 27
Baton rouge
Talent Overload By Quinton Paul
T
he city of Baton Rouge has always been home to a
Michael Clayton, and Eric Randall are some of the better-known
host of athletes who have achieved great success on
competitors who went to the NFL from Louisiana’s capital city.
a professional level. Players have gone to the NFL,
NBA, MLB and other professional sports organiza-
to enhance the raw talent in the area. For example, East Baton
The city has developed programs and organizations
tions.
Rouge Recreation Commission (also known as BREC) has been
Specifically, Baton Rouge football has, over the years, put many
the foundation and start for local talent since 1946.
athletes in the NFL. Players like Billy Cannon, Warrick Dunn,
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The talent in Louisiana can easily compete with states
sports
like Texas and Florida who have even larger support systems and followings for prep sports. Some of their high schools have weekly television programs and radio stations. We may not have all the bells and whistles at the high school level but athletes from Baton Rouge are proving to be just as good and the mainstream media is paying close attention to the talent here in the state.
We definitely have our eyes open for them. Let’s take a
look at some of the current talent in the city on the prep level who have stood out within the past year.
When we discuss talent and national attention, the
first name that comes to mind is University Lab Freshman #5 Dylan Moses. This is a 215lb, 6ft nightmare for opposing offenses. The freshman phenom has earned the attention of ESPN and will definitely have it until his graduation date. His freshman season, he finished with 77 tackles…and I’m more than sure that total will increase every season.
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Sports
Watching Dylan play he seems like he doesn’t get
are some of the teams interested in Whitfield.
over excited about playing football. He’s serious and gets the
job done with great intensity and explosive speed. He is argu-
junior, #7 Joseph “Baby Joe” McWilliams. McWilliams is that
ably the hardest hitting freshman in the state on the varsity
player who can score from anywhere on the football field. He is
level.
primarily a receiver for the Lions. He finished the 2013 season
The third piece to the Capitol High Lions puzzle is
University Lab is also home to someone I consider
with 12 touchdowns and honestly, these were some of the most
to be the smartest running back in class 5A, #4 Nick Brossette,
exciting touchdowns I’ve seen. He is quick and very fast. He can
standing at 6ft and 210lbs. I call him a smart back because
shake a defender like a point guard on a basketball court. He
whatever prevented him for scoring a touchdown on one play,
had 2 interceptions 2 blocked kicks and 3 returns for touch-
is adjusted and fixed to where he’s either in the end zone or
downs as safety. The junior athlete will probably line up at
breaking a big run the next time that play is called. The LSU
quarterback next season. He is one to watch as we can expect
commit is wrapping up his junior year and one of the better
that touchdown total to nearly triple by that seasons end.
seasons in the state
He rushed for 24 touchdowns and 1,186 yards this
ball program lead by Coach Dale Wiener who has a long history
year, he led his team to an 11-0 regular season record AND he
of winning. It also was home to NFL great and Super Bowl win-
has been offered scholarships from just about every college
ning Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back, Warrick Dunn. This
in the SEC along with teams like UCLA, Baylor, Florida St and
school is currently home to possibly two future NFL superstars.
Miami. He is proof that the world is watching.
Juniors Javahn Ferguson and running back Derrius Guice are
Catholic High of Baton Rouge has a legendary foot-
Down in south Baton Rouge, there is a running back
two key players on the team that lead the Bears to a postsea-
that came into the season known around the area, but through
son this year. Javahn is a man amongst boys on the football
the season he has made himself well known and respected
field. The defensive end could easily stand up as a linebacker
by opposing defenses with every carry. McKinley High senior
to inflict pure terror on offenses. Many opponents have had
running back #5Tyrone Scott is the anchor for the Panther’s
to double team him from the snap of the ball. He finished the
offense. His hard running and breakaway speed helped his
season with 89 tackles 10 sacks and 7 blocked kicks. These are
team secure a birth in the post season. He rushed for 1,082
very impressive numbers for a 16-year-old who is more mature
yards and 11 touchdowns this year. His style would remind you
than most that are twice his age.
of Terrell Davis which is quick and strong. Many in state col-
leges are inquiring about where he plans to spend his college
sought after players in the class of 2015 is: Derrius Guice.
career. He will be a valuable addition to whichever roster he
Nicknamed “The Guice” he has shown fans and sports lovers
joins next fall.
statewide that he is the real deal. Equipped with great speed,
The team’s feature running back and one of the most
The Capitol High Lions are a unique team. Their class
strength, and ability to break tackles are elements that make
2A team had a good season, finishing 6-4 and 4-2 in district. A
up his game. Derrius’ signature move is a spin that resembles a
huge difference from the 3-8 record from last year. Three key
tornado ravaging a small village. He faced a few minor injuries
players led this season. Stand out #6 Jamar Robertson, a senior
and missed some time but still managed to gain 1,002 yards
running back, lead the team in rushing with 1,095 yards and
with 18 touchdowns. LSU is a school leading the way in pur-
11 touchdowns. His favorite running back is Minnesota Vikings
suit of this very talented young man. Listed at 5ft 10 and 205
player, Adrian Peterson and I see some similarity in their run-
pounds, he will definitely be causing headaches for opposing
ning style. Like Peterson, Robertson can absorb contact and
teams and coaches for another year in high school.
still get positive yardage. He’s even been known to leap over
oncoming defenders from time to time, if the situation calls for
athletes and there are many others in the area who have
it. College coaches are definitely impressed with his athleti-
achieved great accomplishments on and off the field. Watching
cism.
these young men mature, in their athletic performances and in
The young men highlighted here are great student
His teammate #14, Cedric “POP” Whitfield, is the
their lives, is something that everyone who loves sports can do.
enforcer of the team. He never comes off the field. On defense,
They are using sports and the programs the city has to offer
he is team captain and starting linebacker. On offense, he lines
to put them in a position to do something they love and keep
up at slot receiver. From there he is the placeholder for special
their families proud of them.
teams and a bullet on the kickoff team. He totaled 87 solo
tackles, 2 interceptions and 3 fumble recoveries this season. He
casing some of the best running backs and defensive players
uses his killer instinct and determination to play until the last
in the city. I can just about guarantee the 2014 season will be
whistle separating him from a lot of other defensive players in
a display of zeven more talent.
the area. Schools like Southern University and UL of Lafayette
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The 2013 season has been a very exciting year show-
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