Brutha Magazine Spring 2012 by Brutha Magazine

SPRING 2012 ISSUE 1

KNOWLEDGE, CULTURE, & STYLE FOR THE MODERN CARIBBEAN MALE

SAMMIE POITIER The Bahamian Renaissance Man HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN THE LOVE HAS DIMINISHED IN A RELATIONSHIP? 6 WAYS TO ACHIEVE THE ULTIMATE MALE PHYSIQUE SO YOU’RE A NICE GUY ? HERE’S WHY YOU FINISH LAST..

SPRING INTO FASHION ALL THE INSPIRATION YOU NEED

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

CONTENTS

07 EDITOR’S LETTER 08 THE CONTRIBUTORS

LIFESTYLE 10 Power & Money 10 Clues it’s time to Start Your Own Business. By Mark Zwilling

58. FEATURE STORY

13 She Says – He Says Inderia Saunders & Darnell Lamont Walker on How do you know the love has diminished in the relationship.

Sammie Poitier: The Bahamian Renaissance Man By Taj Duncombe

20 Creating The Balance David Wygant tells us how to turn her on… 22 Work It

So you’re a Nice Guy? Here’s why David Wygant says you finish last.

FASHION 24 Spring Into Fashion

All the inspiration you need!

GROOMING & BEAUTY 40 Face It

Explore Personal Hygiene in Freshness 101 with Jamari Fox.

42 Mr. Fitness

Mikhail Barnett teaches us the basics for the ultimate male physique!

ART & CULTURE 49 Artist Spotlight It’s a Ministry of Love with CJ Priest. By Ana-Alicia Burrows

OUTRO 70 Man On The Rise

Getting There with Giorgio Knowles. By Ana-Alicia Burrows

72 Tech & Gadgets 52 Feeding Me Top 10 Foods for Cardiovascular Fitness by Felix Padilla of Simply Trini Cooking. Bahamian Delight: A Hearty/Healthy Meal. By Michael Davis

Get Techno-Savvy with the hottest items of 2012. By Travis Sweeting

74 Bruthaman Finding the Meanings To Your Life. By Mastin Kipp of The Daily Love

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CONCHIENCE CLOTHING

TAKE MY TALKS by Conchience & Scharad

Conchience.com

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Full-ser vice European style bar and restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Nassau, Bahamas.

W W W . VA N B R E U G E L S . C O M 6

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

EDITOR’S LETTER

To My Brutha, I can recall quite vividly how angry my mother was when I refused to wear a purple shirt she had bought for me. Being seven years old at the time, it should not have mattered about the style of clothes I wore but that particular shirt was well – just not me. Have you ever felt this way? The time has come for you to better understand what it is that defines you, for Brutha Magazine was created with you in mind. It speaks to the needs of the modern Caribbean male who is actively seeking his unique and individualized voice. We’re extracting the sophistication, class and style that resides within, so to bring out the absolute best that exists in every man, everywhere, for all the world to see. For far too long, men have been deemed as able to wear just about anything or have been subjected to fulfilling some preconceived manly activities that wider society dictates. It’s time we unite and fight against the dying breed of good men. Let’s uplift each other where we can and enhance and protect the image of what it means to be a man. A Brutha! In our premiere issue, you will explore the lives of fellow Bruthas who have honed their originality and stepped out-of-the-box to achieve their dreams and live with purpose; you will learn the tricks of dressing your best; you will learn tips about how to deal with women; you will learn the truths about sex, fitness, cooking, and grooming. You will be connected to those that make you unique. And, I promise you, there is still more to come. Just so you know, we’re in this fight together. Spread the word! Love, Your Brutha,

TRAVIS T. SWEETING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

travis@claskicpublications.com

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BRUTHA_THE CONTRIBUTORS

Editor-In-Chief Editorial Director Creative Director Fashion Director Features

Travis T. Sweeting Ana-Alicia Burrows Cardell J. Mcclam Tamar Moss Mikhail Barnett Taj Duncombe Jamari Fox Tamar Moss Inderia Saunders Darnell Lamont Walker

Lead Photographer

Barry Williams

Art Director

Keisha Oliver

Michael Davis Contributing Writers Mastin Kipp Felix Padilla David Wygant Martin Zwilling Travis T. Sweeting Web Editor

Advertising

Sageeden International Media Group ads@claskicpublications.com Ph: 242-424-3782 Or 242-424-5782

Marketing/PR

Sageeden International Media Group

Publisher

Clask.Ic Publications | Nassau, Bahamas

www.bruthamagazine.com This Magazine is published quarterly. No part of Brutha may be reproduced in any form by any means without prior written consent from Clask.ic Publications. We reserve the right to edit, rewrite, or refuse material and we are not responsible for products that appear in this publications. ÂŠ 2012 Brutha Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE ads@claskicpublications.com

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BRUTHA_POWER&MONEY

By Martin Zwilling

A Head For Business: 10 Clues That It’s Time to Start Your Own Business

Many budding entrepreneurs struggle mightily with that first step in starting a business moving out of their comfort zone and into the unknown. They keep asking whether the time is right, and the truth is that there’s never an ideal time to start your own business. It’s like starting a personal relationship - if you wait for exactly the right time, you’ll never do it. I’ve talked to many experts, and everyone has his/her own view of the right personal attributes, and the right business conditions needed to begin. In my view, however, the recovering economy is ripe for new startups, but successful startups are more about the right person, than the right idea or the right climate. So, the real challenge is looking inward to check that the time has come. Here are some points to consider when aligning yourself with the idea of starting your own business:

5 You get to set the deadlines, and manage your own priorities. You have always felt that you can do more than expected by current bosses, if allowed to do it on your own schedule with your own milestones. Your selfmotivation is more effective for you than any arbitrary rewards and even salary increases. 6 You get to do the interesting things, for a change. First of all, the business you intend to set up is your dream, not someone else’s. Within that context, you can delegate or find partners for things that bore you, like marketing, rather than feel that you have been assigned to do the least interesting work.

1 Running a business is a passion you crave. This is a necessary, but not sufficient reason to start a business now. It’s not the same as “I want to change the world (volunteer for a good cause)” or “I’m tired of the corporate grind (take a vacation).” It does mean you have a compelling new business idea, and a willingness to face risk.

7 A variety of challenges stretches your abilities to the maximum. If you love to learn new things, and are stimulated by change, you will love the new business environment. Every day is different, from dealing with creative elements, to financial challenges, marketing and sales, and customers of every type.

2 You know what needs to be done, and not afraid to make the decisions. This is the right context for being your own boss. You get great satisfaction from overcoming all obstacles, and you have no problem with living or dying by your own decisions. You have never had a problem putting together a plan and making it happen.

8 Your office is where you want it. Many entrepreneurs enjoy working from their home, where they are more comfortable, and can interact better with their family. Some like an old eclectic loft downtown, or a local coffee shop to minimize the commute. In these days of global links, you can actually run the business from halfway around the world.

3 The opportunity to make real money excites you. You have read all the stories of Google and Apple hitting on a great idea, beating the odds, and being worth millions in just a couple of years. You like the idea that most of the money you make will be yours, not just merged into corporate profits.

4 You believe the economy has tilted the odds in your favor. The recent recession has definitely opened up opportunities for new products, and skilled people at lower costs are abundant. Many of the great entrepreneurs of the past started their companies near business recessions and depressions.

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9 What you envision doesn’t seem all that hard to you. In fact, the cost of entry into most businesses has come down greatly in the last twenty years. You can now start an e-commerce site for $100, or develop software applications for smart phones for a few

thousand. The right reason to start a business is because you have done your homework, and are convinced that you have the skills and knowledge to do it easily.

10 You are really ready for a second career. This is especially applicable to Boomers and anyone who has had a successful career, but are now ready for a new challenge. The good part of having your own business is that you don’t even have to give up your first job to start the second. If a few of these reasons are calling your name, now is the time to start building your business. There’s no

better moment than the present, especially if people around you are hesitating due to an apparent fit to my other list. It means you’ll be facing a lot less competition. What are you waiting for?

For more tips on starting your business visit

www.startupprofessionals.com

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

How do you know when the love has diminished in the relationship? SHE HE SAYS SAYS Inderia Saunders & Darnell Lamont Walker

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BRUTHA_SHE SAYS

SHE SAYS

By Inderia Saunders

There’s an old saying that a man can never leave a (good) woman and will go through the motions even when his feelings have faded. But women find it difficult to admit one of the most painful, but common truths: He may love you, but he’s not in love with you anymore. A cool breeze has now replaced the burning hot flames that once raged. Although women sometimes prefer to wrap ourselves in a fairytale, it doesn’t mean we can’t pick up on what’s really going on behind those cool kisses. We at least have our suspicions. In the world of fading loves, there are the blatant, brash signs that leave those hard to miss clues (like earrings in the bed that don’t belong to the girlfriend) and then there are the others that are subtler and require women to tap into their inner Nancy Drew, searching to figure out what, why and when? There are signs upon signs that can turn on a woman’s intuition, but let’s start with the rather obvious indicators. Men, this is what women notice when that love starts to fade…

PET NAMES BE-GONE

You once called her “babe” so often that people thought her parents had an obsession with the novel. But now, the government name is the order of the day. It can show that you no longer get that cuddly feeling with her or that you

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no longer care to address her in a way that reveals your connection to her.

CELL PHONE KNOX

All of a sudden you won’t go to the bathroom to pee unless you take your phone with you. Or you suddenly start turning off your phone at nighttime instead of turning it on silent. There’s also the sudden locked phone — if you were always locking your phone, she wouldn’t be suspicious, but if overnight it’s become Fort Knox, then it raises questions.

BEDROOM IS NO LONGER A PLAYROOM

The loss of sexual chemistry is one of the most obvious signs of fading love, but when her normally hot-blooded, randy, always ready mate is suddenly always tired, she knows she has a problem. Loss in sex can set those red flags waving for most women dating a man between the ages of 18 to 50 (and possibly older). There can be two things going on here – either you are getting your needs met elsewhere or you’ve lost all interest in her physically, which can translate into someone else taking her place. On the flip side, however, suddenly wanting to shift things up a little bit without any valid explanation can hint at fewer thoughts of her going through your mind and more thoughts of someone else.

EYES ABOUND

Your eyes are everywhere and on everyone, except on her. If she mentions it to you, you’re irritated with her, instead of sheepishly regretting your actions. It’s a clear sign that although you may be there physically, you’re focus is elsewhere.

COMPUTER SNEAKING

You once checked your emails comfortably around her, but there is now a need to close programs when she walks in the room. It’s not the Internet porno that she’s worrying about (she already knows what you’re doing late at night on the computer), but rather the sudden tension. She can figure out you have something to hide from her now.

ARE YOU HOME YET?

Your hours change. You used to come home at 7 o’clock to be with her and have dinner. Nowadays, although you’ve left work hours ago, you’re nowhere around or there is an endless stream of work projects that require you spending less time with her.

OUT ON THE TOWN

At one point in time, you wanted to go out with her and have fun together as a couple, but there has been a shift and now you don’t mind that girls night out with her friends takes her away from you for so long. Added to that, your

Although women sometimes prefer to wrap ourselves in a fairytale, it doesn’t mean we can’t pick up on what’s really going on behind those cool kisses. We at least have our suspicions.

nights out with the boys have increased tremendously in recent weeks, which means less quality time together. You once told her where you were going and why things ran so late, whereas now, you don’t bother with those explanations any longer.

FORGET-ME-YES

You forget birthdays; you miss anniversaries; you don’t remember valentines, despite all the red and white decorations all over town. While most women complain that their men don’t do enough of these grand gestures, we know our men all too well to know what are the general things he can never remember and what is odd behavior — even for him.

CARE-LESS

She’s told you over and over that you’re acting different towards her and instead of processing it, you seem completely fine with the status quo. Your positive attitude towards setting things right in the relationship has changed all of a sudden and you appear good with the way things are. The apparent lack of concern about the cracks in the relationship can project to her a man who is not focused on growing the relationship he is currently in. Overall, there are countless other ways that a woman can tell when a man’s love is fading away. But it all boils down to changes in behavior and language.

When two people are together for a significant period of time, it becomes easy to pick right up on changes with verbal and non-verbal communication in the relationship. For the newer relationships, the more blatant signs of dying feelings can be the best guides. In those long-term relationships where habits are already formed, things aren’t that easy, with subtle signs that require really knowing a person likely the most valid detector of when one is falling out of love. For many women, it can feel like being in a relationship with a familiar stranger. So, although she may not choose to admit to you that she knows what’s going on, her female intuition can pick up on all the necessary clues that her heart will want to deny — the love is fading and we sometimes just don’t know why.

HE SAYS

By Darnell Lamont Walker

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_HE SAYS

How do you know when the love has diminished in the relationship?

HE SAYS

By Darnell Lamont Walker

Relationships tend to put us in boxes made of steel bars and cinder block. The good thing, though, is we’re not in there alone. We’re in there with the woman we chose, prayerfully based on her merits, physical appearance, intelligence and sometimes how well she performs in bed.

Each relationship began with my looking for a way out. The hint of the first argument, the disapproval of her from friends, or even her political opinions would send me packing up the toothbrush and towel I left at her place, and saving her name in my phone under “Do Not Answer.”

As much as we claimed to hate boxes prior to entering this relationship, we’ve adapted and conformed. We now have great expectations and requirements that this chosen woman must live up to, and once she falls short of those, or step foot outside of those steel bars or cinder block walls through whatever crack she finds, what we feel for her begins seeping through that same hole. No box is built without faults.

As the cliché goes, “with age comes wisdom.” With age came a relationship full of supplements. When one of my many requirements would seep out, I’d replace it with something wonderfully possessed. When she is unable to leave me at peace to write on Sundays, I remember how great she is on Saturdays when she wakes up at 7am but lets me sleep until noon. I’ve learned this art.

But for some, relationships are not about the loving; it’s about the building.

When the love is diminishing, you have to be willing to communicate that. Let her know you’re not feeling for her today what you felt last week. She will kick it into overdrive or fall to the wayside, but you must be ready to exhaust the possibilities, and make sure that breaking down the walls is the best decision.

For years, I was more in love with falling in love than I was with the many women that came and went. That being my issue, I found it easy to fall out of love overnight, destroy the boxes we lived in, and begin rebuilding the next day with some cute girl I met at a bar or an amusement park, or God forbid, Facebook. 16

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BRUTHA_CREATING THE BALANCE

Have you ever been to a party where the music is blaringly loud, so much so that you can’t even hear yourself think, and you wonder, “How do I talk to somebody when everything is so loud? Do I scream at them, or do I just stand there in the corner and not say a word? What do I do in this situation?” It’s very simple: use the power of “the leanin.”

importance here because, quite simply, the ear is extremely sensual. Think about it. Have you ever kissed a woman’s ear and watched her squirm? While having sex, have you ever looked directly in her eyes during that intense moment, kissed her, then whispered in her ear exactly what you want to do to her? No wonder at that moment she starts to climax like a maniac.

When talking to a woman at a party or a loud bar, lean in, touch her shoulder very gently, and then speak into her ear so she can hear you. Then pull back. Now, you allow her to do the same thing. If she follows your lead, then attraction is going to start to build.

Truthfully, though, it’s really not hard to push the right buttons with someone, to turn them on. It’s simply about understanding how people are wired. The power of the lean-in builds such a potent connection between two people that can’t be mimicked any other way. You’re creating intimacy without having to say it.

Take my experience, for example. Recently, I was at a party where the music was so loud that I couldn’t hear what I was thinking. I walked over to this woman in the corner who had been staring at me, and I used the lean-in. Every time I did it, I would pull back afterwards. Every time she did it to me, she was either touching her hair or touching her stomach. She probably didn’t realize she was doing this. She was touching herself without probably realizing because words in her ear brought her back to some intimate moment in her subconscious mind. Everything in life is about the subconscious and you can create that moment from the very beginning. It’s important, henceforth, to keep the process of a “lean-in” going. By leaning in directly into someone’s ear, you’re creating sexual tension. And it’s vital to note such

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A lot of men think that they have to whisper in a woman’s ear things like “I want to do you tonight” or “I want to lick you from head to toe like a popsicle at Coney Island.” In truth, just talking to a woman (i.e., having an interesting conversation and paying attention to what she’s saying), then speaking those words in her ear, will create powerful sexual tension without having to say anything vulgar or cheesy. The next time you’re at a party or a bar and a woman is checking you out, walk over to her with confidence, lean in, and speak right into her ear. Don’t scream in her ear and break her eardrum - just talk. It is a powerful trigger point for creating sexual chemistry – and has the ability to work both ways, not just for me.

all the right moves by David Wygant

how to turn her on by leaning in BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_WORK IT

So you’re a nice guy? Here’s why you finish last. By David Wygant www.davidwygant.com

You hear it over and over again: “Nice guys finish last.” The theory goes that women just don’t want a nice guy; they want the jerk, the thug, the bad boy. Therefore, you think to yourself, “I’ve got to learn how to be a complete playa. I’ve got to learn how to put women down. I’ve got to learn how to not call her so to make her want me. I’ve got to play games, to create attraction that way - that’s what’s going to work.” But what do you think happens when the nice guy starts to do that? His attempts falter and he can’t make that work, either. Why? Because it’s not authentic. He doesn’t own his words, doesn’t act as he truly is and, therefore, he doesn’t come across as genuine. Women can read right through such phoniness and know that he’s just playing a game. Nevertheless, even when he straightens up and does the right thing, women always seem to say, “I just want to be friends.” No matter what he does, the nice guy loses out on what he tried so hard to get in the first place. That’s because women, in fact, don’t want the nice guy; they really want a great guy. A guy with principles. A guy who really understands and respects himself.

The Nice Guy Defined. Nice guys respect themselves in a way, but they always agree. Whenever they’re out on a date, they’re always

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agreeing with everything she says. She may say, “I love to eat eggs while hiking up a mountain.” And while the nice guy knows doing something like that will give him indigestion, he’ll say, “Sounds great! I love to hike mountains while eating eggs, too!” She may tell him, “I really want to take a skydiving vacation.” The nice guy might have acrophobia, but he’ll say, “Me, too!” While the nice guy is an agreeable person, he’s got no control over his life. He allows women to come into his life, he agrees with them on everything, and hopes and prays that these women will like him for being so agreeable. It’s so important for women to like him, so he’s Mr. Agreeable. Mr. Agreeable never gets the girl. He never gets the second date because he’s boring; there’s no challenge. No push and pull. No excitement. What being so agreeable tells a woman is that you do not have enough self-respect to stand up to your own personal values.You don’t think enough of yourself to own your identity and subsequently show your true self; you become accommodating, uninteresting, and dull.You become the boring nice guy nobody wants to date and the one that doesn’t get the hint to try to be more and do more. When you’re attracted to a woman, you do everything you can to please her. She’s got a cold? You’ll bring her cold medicine. She tells you she’s got a headache tonight? You drive her home. She tells you

that she can’t see you this weekend, you’ll say, “Oh, that’s OK. We’ll get together whenever you’re ready.” You don’t have a plan.You’re wishy-washy on everything you do.You’re Mr. Whatever-You-Want-To-Do.

Women and Nice Guys. The nice guy is actually giving up control over his life to the women he wants to date. He’s too scared to live his own life, too scared to do what he wants to do. Women don’t want power over a man like that. What women want is a man. They want a leader -- a great guy who will lead them. A guy who, when he dates them, takes them places and takes care of things his way, who stands up for who he is and will debate her on topics if he doesn’t agree with her – not completely succumb to her arguments because he thinks she wouldn’t want to debate. Nice guys never stand up for themselves, because that’s what nice guys do -- they don’t believe they can get women. They’ve got this fear that they can’t get the woman they truly want, so they take whatever they can get. They literally beg their way into a relationship. And a woman knows that from there on, she basically has him by the balls.

Be a Great Guy, not a Nice Guy. If you’re nice, that’s great, but what you really want to be is a great guy. You want to be a man who treats people well while at the same time standing up to your own principles and not the expectations of others. You want to be a man who stands on his own two feet and isn’t afraid to stand up to a woman just because he’s attracted to her.You want to be a man who leads, a man who decides if he wants to pursue the relationship or not, not a nice guy who tries to conform to her wants every which way and puts himself in the beggar’s role. Nice guys are beggars. Great guys are catches. To get there, you have to truly believe it.You have to live your life in a way that you truly want and not give it up just to make your date happy.You have to know that you are a great, interesting person to date, that you can get the woman you want and that you can get laid when

you want. Women want to be with a guy who knows he can actually get laid by other women but chooses to be with her. Women don’t want to be with a guy because she is his only option. If you’re nice at heart, you’re nice. But don’t let it end there. Continue to respect and treat people well. Embrace it, in fact -- it’s a great quality to have. But don’t hide it by playing games and trying to be a bad boy. And don’t keep it bottled to the point where your true personality is forfeited for the sake of conforming to some preconceived beliefs. What you need to do is extend the niceties into greatness. Be a great guy. Don’t be nice just to get a woman to like you. It never works.

“

women, in fact, don’t want the nice guy; they really want a great guy. A guy with principles. A guy who really understands and respects himself.

”

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SPRING INTO FASHION

Complete Styling by Tamar Moss

ALL THE INSPIRATION YOU NEED TO WEAR YOUR BEST THIS SEASON. 24

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SPRING/SUMMER 2012 Models Left to Right: Travez Rahming, Cristoph Symonette, Ajayi Bodden, Trumaine Taylor; Clothing by Imagine Boutique, Nassau, Bahamas; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at Harryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Haven, Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

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BRUTHA_FASHION

Models Left to Right: Ajayi Bodden, David Dion; Clothing by (Ajayi) – Aeropostale, (David) – Forever 21; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams on Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas;

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Model Trumaine Taylor; Shirt by Imagine Boutique, Nassau, Bahamas;

MUA Lisa Wallace;

Photographed by Barry Williams at Harryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Haven, Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

BRUTHA_FASHION

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Model Travez Rahming;

Clothing by Imagine Boutique;

MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams on Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

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Model Travis Brown; Clothing by Express;

MUA Lisa Wallace;

Photographed by Barry Williams on Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

BRUTHA_FASHION

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Model Models Left to Right: Ajayi Bodden, Raytavia Adderley, Travez Rahming; Clothing by Imagine Boutique, Travezâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pants by Forever 21; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at Elizabeth On Bay Marketplace and Marina, Nassau, Bahamas.

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Model David Dion;

Clothing by Imagine Boutique, Nassau, Bahamas; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at Elizabeth On Bay Marketplace and Marina, Nassau, Bahamas

BRUTHA_FASHION

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PARTY

Amp up your evening wear/nightlife with this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bright colors and classic looks. Be Bold!

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Model Trumaine Taylor; Clothing by HERC by Cardell J. McClam; MUA: Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at Elizabeth On Bay Marketplace and Marina, Nassau, Bahamas

BRUTHA_FASHION

Model Ajayi Bodden; Clothing by HERC by Cardell J. McClam, Shoes by Imagine Boutique; Photographed by Barry Williams at Elizabeth On Bay Marketplace and Marina, Nassau, Bahamas

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BRUTHA_FASHION

ESSENTIALS The essential white pieces and staples you need now that can pair up with just about any color 36

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Models Left to Right: Travis Brown, David Dion, Ajayi Bodden, Trumaine Taylor, Travez Rahming; Clothing by (Travis & Ajayi) – Fruit of The Loom, (David) Express, (Trumaine) Imagine Boutique, Nassau, Bahamas, (Travez) Express; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at Harry’s Haven, Queen Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

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BRUTHA_FASHION

VACATION Its time to accelerate your fun with color popping, print or sleek designs that will have everyone wondering where did he come from? 38

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Models Left to Right: David Dion, Ajayi Bodden, Trumaine Taylor Clothing by (David) Aeropostale, (Ajayi) Provided by Cardell J. McClam, (Trumaine) Pants by Express, Shirt available at Sandyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Store, Nassau, Bahamas; MUA Lisa Wallace; Photographed by Barry Williams at The Tikki Bar, Junkanoo Beach, Nassau, Bahamas. BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FACE IT

FRESH -NESS 101: The importance of personal hygiene. by Jamari Fox 40

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COLOGNE

DEODORANT

APPEARANCE MATTERS. That is the bottom line. Despite the importance of personality and intelligence, you cannot run away from the fact that first impressions are lasting impressions – and they are geared in a big way by appearance. For men, in whatever endeavors, it is important to look your best and dress for success. And such personal care starts at a very basic level – hygiene. So, men, a word of advice – make sure you have proper hygiene! It may sound harsh, but the truth is that there are many young men (and a few of the older ones, too) that walk around dressed nicely but, underneath,

SHOWERING:

Simple, right? So it would seem, but there are quite a few men out there who bypass daily showers with the excuse that cologne can work wonders. Not only is this unhygienic, but it is also unattractive. Women – and, truly, everyone – does not like to be around a man – or anyone for that matter - who smells sweet on the outset but has a backwash of days-old sweat lingering beneath that Axe spray. Realistically, men should shower everyday and pay particular attention to the more private areas. Much the same way men appreciate a clean-smelling woman, so do women appreciate a cleansmelling man.

DEODORANT:

Much like showering, wearing deodorant is a regular regimen for keeping yourself clean-smelling. This is a MUST for grown men all across the world. Never do anything, no matter what it is, without deodorizing.

SKIN CARE:

Acne is a big problem for men today but it is not one that cannot be controlled. All you need is the proper product and to remember that regular use is the only way it works. In order to get the right results, however, it is important to know your skin type and what works best for you. Black men, for example, should look for products with Salicylic Acid in it. Drinking water regularly throughout the day is also good to help hydrate your skin and flush out impurities.

MOUTHWASH

FACIAL WASH

SHOWER GEL

are harboring the kind of body odor that could curl toes – and not in a good way. Some men may have the belief that persons who take the time to remain clean to the core are considered “soft” or “sweet” but, in reality, they are smart. They are the ones with the attention, the possibilities, and the luck. All because they understand just how important it is to upkeep their physical appeal. So, if you didn’t think it was important before, it’s time to realize now that it is. But you need not worry about what to do. Here are a few basic tips to help you get on the right track:

HAIRCUTS:

This should happen once every week or, on occasion, maybe even once every other week. Either way, it is important to keep your hair trimmed neatly and, also, keep facial hair under control. Ignored for too long, and things could get scraggly.

MOUTH CARE:

This is another standard that is, unfortunately, overlooked at times. A man, and really everyone, should brush his teeth twice a day and follow it up with mouthwash. For one thing, it eliminates germs and that rather unpleasant thing called bad breath. Floss is also a handy tool to keep around in order to maintain a clean mouth throughout the entire day. Also, a simple balm across the lips can help eliminate any chapping. White, cracked lips are not appealing.

NAIL CARE:

TOP 10 BRANDS

Dirty nails are a no-no. Although never pointed out, women do cast judgment based on the state of a man’s nails. Contrary to popular belief, it is completely acceptable for a man to indulge in a manicure or pedicure once in a while. Don’t be afraid to take pride in your hands and feet – it can go a long way.

Cologne: Ralph Lauren Gucci Guilty Deaodarant: Gillette Clear Gel Dove Men Care Shower Gel: Lynx Nivea Sport Facial Wash: Body Shop Dove Men Care Shower Gel: Lynx Nivea Sport

BODY SCENT:

Although it doesn’t work so well on its own, cologne can go a long way in adding that final dash of perfection. It is attractive but it is important to note to not overdo it. A light spray on the pulse points (wrists and neck) is good enough. Although basic, it is important to always keep these steps in mind. Too often do some of these fall through the cracks. Let 2012 be the year of clean men everywhere!

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

MR. FITNESS

By Mikhail Barnett

The Body of A Greek God: 6 Ways to Obtain the Ultimate Male Physique 42

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

As a Fitness Expert the most frequent question client’s ask: “Why can’t I lose weight like I use to in the past?” Well my friends the answer to that is simple: We are getting older and our metabolism is slowing down, making it more difficult to remain healthy and physically fit. However, falling by the wayside can be prevented by eating healthily and exercising. Here is a workout regimen put together to boost your metabolism and get you the ultimate male physique!

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

Bench press with Knee-ins (3x15)

This exercise works the upper body (pectorals, triceps, anterior deltoid, core). Lay your back onto the bench and extend both legs in the air. Then, with both hands, firmly hold the barbell shoulder width apart. While bringing the barbell to your chest you simultaneously bring your knees into your stomach.

Deadlifts (3x15)

Deadlifts is a great exercise because it involves so many muscles like your back, core, legs, hips and forearms. This exercise begins from the floor; your strong hand will hold the bar overhand and your weak hand will hold the bar underhand. From there you keep the knees slightly bent, chest up and pull the barbell to a standing position.

Burpees (3x15)

The burpee is a full body exercise used in strength training and also as aerobic exercise. Begin by standing, and then move down into a squat position with your palms to the floor. Then, jump back with both feet at the same time into the front plank position before jumping back into a squat with palms and then return to your standing position. 44

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

Dumbell Squats (3x15)

The target muscles being exercised here are your quadriceps. Stand shoulder width apart with dumbbells grasped to your side. Bend your knees while pushing your hips back just as if your about to sit into a chair. Be sure your knees do not come over your toes and you keep your chest up and back straight.

Lunges (3x15)

This exercise is perfect for toning the hips, glutes and quadriceps! Stand with your left foot 3 feet in front of your right foot. While keeping your chest up and your back straight, begin to bend your legs bringing your right knee close to the floor and keeping your left knee behind your toes.

Sit-ups (3x15)

Sit-ups are great for strengthening the hip-flexors and especially the upper abdominal muscles. Begin by lying down with your feet to the floor and locked underneath something for leverage. Then, interlock your fingers behind your head or cross your arms and begin to lower your back down towards the floor to a range that is comfortable for you. Return to the upright position. Be sure if you place your hands behind your head to not pull at your head to help yourself sit-up. BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

A special note for everyone: always consult your doctor before starting any fitness program to ensure that you are able to handle the regimen.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

From as young as the age of four, Charles Gardiner has proven that music is his niche. It was at that age that he made his first musical performance, singing the lively hymn “Nothing But The Blood of Jesus” in his father’s East Street church. Despite having been overwhelmed by the scary experience to the point of tears, it is a moment from which he gained the confidence to sing and, henceforth, continued to work with and produce music. He plays several instruments and has always been focused on and geared towards the uplifting of music. In fact, his high school days at Queen’s College were filled with hours in the music room, helping to keep the music program at his alma mater alive. Such talent, however, was not one that he stumbled across but rather inherited from his family – a family of singers. His father was once a member of the Sons of Joy, whose well-known tune “Keep The Fire Burning” is still quite popular today. Likewise, both his mother and his uncle were a member of the group, Love Singers. With such a history deeply steeped in music, it is no strange feat that Charles Gardiner grew to become the musician known to all as CJ Priest. “I never saw myself doing anything else,” he says of why he chose music. “It is a part of who I am.”

A MINISTRY OF LOVE The Music of Cj Priest By A.C. Burrows

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

And, indeed, music is and always has been what’s guided his life’s path. The second eldest of four children, Priest was raised in a strict, Christian home and it is probably because of such a background that many persons told Gardiner that, one day, he was going to become a Priest like his Bishop father. Even though he never made it to the pulpit as a preacher, in a way, such predictions proved to be true. He is a Priest; he is CJ Priest whose medium is music and whose ministry is one of love rather than religion. For that is what he heralds his music to be - a brand of love. For him, there is a certain level of passion mixed into his music, which he uses as a way to touch people and what they experience so that they can say, “That’s happened to me.” His lyrics are testaments to life, a telling of what truly happens to us all every day, rather than the idealized, storybook tales that ignore raw truths. His popular tune, ‘One-Sided Love’, for instance, is one that is based on a personal experience, something that had lingered with him for a long time. Although the full nature of the story remains guarded, the basis was enough to compel him to share his story with the world, to reach people who may have endured similar hardships. Priest focused his feelings into his music and created a song that was both therapeutic and cathartic for him and, likewise, relatable and entertaining for the airwaves. And the same can be said for every one of his songs. Indeed, he creates the truth and does so as a result of a production process that allows him to speak from the heart. For Priest, songs are created with music first and lyrics second, not the other way around. His is a process of self-reflection, of internalization, of understanding and connection, of figuring out the feel of the music and what it evokes within him. His lyrics are guided by the beat, which he listens to first and tries to understand on a visceral level before formulating the song itself and using that to bring out whatever is locked inside. With regards to the influence behind his desire to create music, other than his family, CJ Priest heralds greats such as Stevie Wonder and Luther Vandross - whom he says he would love to collaborate with had he been given the chance - as idols in the music world. Stevie wonder, in particular, is a man whose true power, he feels, lies in the soul-stirring beats and tunes of the music itself. “His soul is in what he does,” says Priest, and the reason this young artist counts him as an inspiration. CJ also notes the influence of the entire oldies era and the smooth sounds of jazz, the soulful delights of his father’s generation which he grew up listening to and still considers some of the sweetest music even today. However, even with such passion and talent behind his music, Priest notes that he had initially endured the expected challenges that a rookie within the industry would face. Persons didn’t want to support him or wanted to change him, but he did not allow the negativity to cloud his vision for his music. There were even some who may claim that his music is not relative to the Bahamian tradition, yet Priest never sees it as such. For his aesthetic, Bahamian music is more than just the sound of Goombay; rather it is the soul of people and anything that remains true to one’s nature as a Bahamian. And that is what he believes his music does.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

The Music of Cj Priest For more information www.cjpriestmusic.com www.revernation.com/CJPriest Follow him online Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.

“Eventually, I just had to let go and do me.” And that “me”, for him, is merely a higher level of himself. Performing brings out the best in him, as it allows him to draw on his creativity and truly express who he is and what he stands for within the industry. For him, the ultimate performance is just that – a place where the audience is able to interact with him and a chance to really feel the music and what it means. In the end, that is what it is all about. Reaching people on a level that it seems only music can touch. So, what’s in store for this amazing Bahamian artist? Internationalization: “I want to get my album out there and internationalize Bahamian artists.” He sees the potential within Bahamian music to be able to reach beyond the shores and hopes to, one day, reach a level where he can get everyone to work together and bring Bahamian music to the world. There are persons who have already put other Caribbean islands on the map and CJ Priest wants to do just that for the Bahamas. Already, he has started work on new pieces, with two new releases scheduled for this month – “Spades” and “Tonight Is Yours” – which are singles from his second album “Me To You”. Indeed, we can expect great things from CJ Priest. BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEEDME

Healthy Hearts

BY FELIX PADILLA | www.simplytrinicooking.com

A healthy heart is what many would want, no matter their age. Heart diseases cause premature death for many but eating right and taking care of our bodies can lessen the possibilities of suffering at the hands of such a silent killer. For most people, this means a lifestyle modification that could drastically change the types of food that is consumed. There are great benefits in such changes, however, and the betterment of cardiovascular fitness pays off in the end. A heart health diet would be one that seeks to reduce and limit the amount of saturated fat in your daily diet. We have heard it often, a diet high in saturated fats raises your cholesterol, especially the bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol).

and diabetes. In order to help you avoid such risks and improve the health of your heart, here is our list of the top ten foods for cardiovascular fitness.

1. Spinach Besides being a rich source of iron, calcium and vitamin K, spinach is an excellent antioxidant that discourages oxidation of existing blood cholesterol. It, therefore, protects the heart and fights against heart disease. Furthermore, Spinach is rich in foliate, a B vitamin that reduces homocysteine; it also has anti-inflammatory properties that further protect the heart and components that help control blood pressure. This makes spinach our number one heart-healthy food.

As a matter of fact, a 1% decrease in dietary saturated fatty acids means a 2% decrease in LDL cholesterol and a 2% decrease in the overall risk for heart disease. Also, such a diet encourages you to reduce your intake of sodium. People who are overweight tend to suffer from high blood pressure, and as they lose weight their blood pressure will also fall. Hypertension can cause damage to the kidney, the heart and the brain. Heart problems are exacerbated with hypertension. Other factors that trigger heart disease are high triglyceride levels, high homocysteine levels

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

2. Fish Fish is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acid. Therefore, fish oil has the potential to improve, not only the heart, but overall health. The American Heart Association and other authorities recommend the consumption of two fatty fish servings per week as part of a heart healthy diet. This could provide the 1-gram of omega-3 fatty acids per serving. Fish is also the best source for EPA and DHA in the diet. But you must also be careful, as certain fish contain traces of mercury, PCBs and pollutants. The best types of fish species are herring, sardines, and salmon.

3. Red wine This heart-healthy treat should be no surprise to you. Studies show that red wine in the diet, at about two glasses a day for men and one for women, has positive effects on the heart. It is a result of antioxidant pytochemical that can lower the risk of heart disease by 30 to 40%.

4. Sunflower seed The phytosterols in sunflower seeds give it the ability to lower cholesterol and, subsequently, the risk of heart disease. Sunflower seeds also contain selenium and vitamin E. A 1/4 cup of sunflower seed kernels will provide more than 40% of the recommended amount of vitamin E and 30% of the recommended amount of selenium. They are also rich in protein and fiber, when contributes to the lower of homocysteine, a risk factor for heart disease.

A heart health diet would be one that seeks to reduce and limit the amount of saturated fat in your daily diet.

5. Broccoli Yes, broccoli made the list with just two florets, raw or lightly cooked. Broccoli contains antioxidants, including vitamin C, folic acid, and B vitamin. However, it is the B vitamin found in broccoli that reduces the level of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood.

6. Oats Oats is a concentrated source of fiber and nutrients, making it a perfect weapon against preventing heart disease. Consuming as little as one bowl of oatmeal has the benefits of lowering cholesterol levels by 8 to 23%. This is significant because a 1% drop in serum cholesterol could mean a 2% decrease in the risk of developing heart disease and the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

7. Baked beans Baked beans contain protein, fiber, iron, and calcium and are rated low on the glycaemic index. It is also a good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that also helps prevent heart disease.

8. Brazil nuts Brazil nuts are good source of monounsaturated fat as well and another good heart-healthy food. It also has plenty of fiber, 2 grams of fiber per ounce. Fiber helps to control cholesterol and sugar absorption, which also helps keep the digestive system in top shape.

9. Apple They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Actually, apples are packed with antioxidants, especially vitamin C. It contains pectin, soluble fibers that helps lower blood cholesterol level and helps keep the digestive system healthy. This low glycaemic food is an excellent option for weight control and heart protection.

10. Tea Another heart healthy food is tea, which is commonly known for its diuretic effect. Tea, whether black, green, or red, is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly the catechins that protects the artery wall and prevent heart disease. In populations where tea is drunk often, some studies show that tea drinkers suffer less from heart disease with just one cup a day.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEEDME

Bahamian Delight a hearty healthy meal ! By Michael Davis

Lobster, Pan Fried Snapper, Stallion Steak served with Herbal Mashed Potatoe, sauté Broccoli, and Carrots with Bergan Beef Sauce.

WHAT YOU NEED.

1 6oz steak

½ cup salt

2 limes

1 snapper fish

½ tsp. paprika

2 medium size pots

1 6oz lobster tail

stem parsley

3 frying pan

3 strips broccoli

block butter

½ cup seasoning salt

6 baby carrots dice in two

tsp. black pepper

1 clove garlic

2 Idaho potatoes

tsp. sour cream

1 small goat pepper

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

Recipe Mediterranean Salad Lobster Tail

Step 1 Place lobster in a bowl of water and clean. Step 2 Take a lobster and place on a clean cutting board. Then take a knife and cut straight down the centre of the back of the lobster. Step 3 Remove meat out of the shell of the lobster and place on the back of the shell. Step 4 Sprinkle seasoning salt on the meat of the lobster along with a pinch of paprika. Step 5 Place lobster in pan and a half cup of water in pan then cover with top for 10 minutes on stove at medium heat. Step 6 After lobster is cooked place melted butter on top then wait to be served.

Pan Fried Snapper Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4

Clean the inside of the snapper and fillet by slicing off each side of the fish. Season fish with 1 tsp. salt, ½ dice goat pepper and 2 limes squeezed on fish. Set for 10 minutes in bowl. Fry snapper in pan for 5 -10 minutes When fish is cooked place on the side until ready to be served.

INGREDIENTS 4 Cups mixed salad greens 1 Cup chopped plum tomatoes 1 Cup coarsely chopped pitted Kalamata olives 1 Medium avocado Crumbled Feta Cheese ½ Cup thin red onion slices ½ Cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

Stallion Steak Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

Place steak in bowl, add 2 tsp. diced garlic 1tsp. season salt, ½ cup oil and marinate for 5 minutes. Place steak in pan and cook on each side for 3 minutes. Place in dish until ready to be served.

Herbal Mashed potato

Step 1 Place ½ cup water in pot at medium heat. Then add potatoes. Step 2 Cook potatoes for 20 - 30 minutes or until soft enough to mash. Step 3 Place potatoes in bowl with 2 tsp. sour cream, ½ butter ½ tsp. salt and chopped up parsley and mix. Step 4 Place on the side until ready to be served.

Sauté broccoli and carrots Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4

Place ½ cup water in pot at medium heat. Add 3 strips of broccoli in water to shock colour texture. Place carrots in hot water for 2 minutes. Then take out and place in a bowl of cold water. Take broccoli and carrots and place in sauté pan on medium heat and add tsp. black pepper, tsp. salt with 1 cube butter in pan for 30 seconds until ready to be served

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

Sammie Poitier

Bahamian Renaissance Man By Taj Duncombe

Photography: Barry Williams MUA: Lisa Wallace. Sammieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clothing: HERC by Cardell J. McClam, Female Clothing: ILashan Apparel & Handmade Jewelry by Indira Moss Styling: Cardell J. McClam, Assisted by Tamar Moss

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

itting in Sammie “Starr” Poitier’s living room

across from his wife and daughter, I begin to think that

the man I’m about to interview should not make sense. Reading his bio, you would think it, too. A preacher’s

son turned musician, turned community activist, tuned

political candidate, then ex-political candidate? Were it not for his name and if you turned the musician to

a movie star, you would have Arnold Schwarzenegger sitting across from me.

But the couple in the living room doesn’t seem anything

like what I was expecting. They seem to lead a very

laid-back lifestyle all the while being involved in and aware of everything that surrounds them. When I was presented with the opportunity to interview Sammie and his wife, I immediately thought of an over-the-top

musician with an even more over-the-top wife, who

may be out of touch with the everyday Bahamian. But

this was not the case. Sammy’s wife, Racine walked into the room carrying their daughter Kimya in her arms.

Kimya takes one look at my companion and I, and hides behind her mother’s legs.

Speaking with the couple, you get that sense that they

are of one mind, and do communicate openly about what

they want for their lives, and the lives of the people that surround them. Not only involved in music, Sammie is a philanthropist, and a community activist. Interested in not only helping the community that he lives in, but The

Bahamas as a whole; and he has a plan. With a passion for the arts and youth development, he and his wife have a long term plan that they hope would leave their legacy not only standing distinct – but impacting. I had the

opportunity to interview Sammie on the Saturday after

his announcement that he and the Democratic National Alliance had parted ways, and he was no longer a candidate for the party.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

“We’re not divas, we’re low-key, and we’re mellow”

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

Rancine Poitier

“We’re definitely fashionistas”

Sammie Poitier

Sammie’s Clothing: Perry Ellis BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

“I am a family man, solution finder and community activist. I am not just an entertainer.”

few days after the interview, Mr. Poitier

(via Bahamas Press) had a few thoughts on his departure from the DNA, that he – out of respect – did not want to share in our interview, but feeling that

he was “ ‘Thrown Under the Bus and Rolled Over… Twice’, with no regard for how this would affect [his]

credibility, [his] reputation, and of course [his] family.”

Mr. Poitier decided to take to the internet and by his

own hand declared that it “… became clear to our team

and supporters that the party lacked confidence in me as a candidate. As a result, the relationship between

the South Beach Team and National Party became

very strained. Hence, when I was asked to leave the party my entire team decided that they would leave

with me. I am NOT a supporter of The Democratic National Alliance.” Mr. Poitier also wanted to “… let them know, particularly the young people that it does not matter what people have to say about you, but it

is about knowing who you are. Before the DNA I was

Sammie “Starr” Poitier and after the DNA I am still me. I am a family man, solution finder and community

Sammie Poitier

Not wanting to speak about his political involvements, what could have been a giant pink elephant in the room during the interview caused us to focus more

on Sammie’s activities in music, his community, and

what he hopes to accomplish in the future. In his own

words he declared what he was (“…a family man, solution finder and community activist. I am not just an entertainer.”) and I found in speaking to him in that short period of time, that he seems to be all that he

says he is. Sammie Poitier is a modern day Bahamian

Renaissance man, his interests stretch far beyond what

you would assume, and he seeks to change the world through the arts and culture, he does not limit his vision for the future to music, but widens it to the point where anything is possible.

What could have easily been a promotion for the

upcoming elections and Sammie Poitier – the politician – became a learning experience for me and hopefully for you as well.

activist. I am not just an entertainer.”

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

Q&A BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

How did you get started in Music?

[Sammie] My dad was always a musician, so I basically came up playing the instruments in the house, and listening to music… My first opportunity [to make music] came when I met some friends at a studio called the Milky Way Studio that was owned by Greg White. He allowed me into the studio with some friends of mine, where I learned how to produce tracks.

What’s your opinion on Bahamian Music in general? Some think it’s too influenced by Reggae, some say it’s too much calypso and soca.

[Sammie] We’re at that point where we’re trying to define what actual Bahamian music is. But Bahamian music is – no matter what genre- music that is made by Bahamians. Reggae, country, rock, whatever, as long as I’m a born and breed Bahamian and I did it – it’s Bahamian music.

Are you putting out a new album anytime soon?

[Sammie] Working on it right now. It should have been out from 2009. It’s going to be called ‘Black: Vol.1’. It’s going to be a three part series – Black: Vol. 1, Gray: Vol. 2 , and White: Vol. 3.

What are you trying to say with it?

[Sammie] It’s going to describe my journey. When I started black, no one knew me. Gray – I kind of became known, a little bit, but still not there. White – is the ascension to where you get ‘this is Sammie “Starr” and his music.”

So who’s your strongest influence in your music? [Sammie] In general, I would have to put it to a couple people. I really admire Kanye West, Madonna, and of course Elton John. Faith Evans is my favorite singer period. They influence my career path.

Most of them have been around for a long period of time, and have reinvented themselves.  [Sammie] Exactly. That’s the point, I want to always be current, and reinventing myself. 66

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

Racine, would you give him feedback on his music?

[Racine] Yes. Before anything is released, he asks me what I think about it. And I always give my honest opinion whether I like it or not.

As a couple, what’s your style?

[Sammie] We’re definitely fashionistas. Definitely. I would have to say that.  [Racine] We’re not divas, we’re low-key, and we’re mellow. I’m not hard to please. Whereas he has to be in the store for hours.

So if you throw a house party? What type of party would it be? [Racine] It would definitely be a party of friends that are close to us – nothing wild, no one hanging from the chandeliers.

“We’re at that point where we’re trying to define what actual Bahamian music is. ”

Sammie Poitier

[Sammie] It would be a theme party though.

[Racine] Definitely, we like to do organized events.

Ten years, twenty years from now, what do you want your legacy to be? What do you want people to remember?   [Sammie] I would like them to remember the community activist part. Not even the music. I’m using the music because it’s what I’m good at. But what I ultimately want to do with the music is provide a path and opportunity for me to be a community activist. I love helping people.

As a community activist, what’s your opinion on Bahamian youth right now? We have some people who are ready to throw them away.

[Sammie] Well, I think it depends on the way you look at it. A lot of those people – the young kids – have something that they would like to do, but they don’t have the opportunity to really express what it is that

they want to do. A lot of those young men that you see on the blocks, a lot of them can paint really well, they’re really good artists, really good athletes, but there are no opportunities, and society is so ‘traditional’ – where if you don’t fall into a certain category, they automatically

look you over. I don’t think that our youth are lost; I don’t think that they’re

misguided; I just think that they lack opportunities.

Do you think that we need more programs that afford more avenues to the arts?

Actually the things that we want to do – as a couple, as a family – is to eventually build a school of the arts. This school would be a regular school, but students will be able to concentrate on their talent.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

“you don’t have to be a member of parliament to affect the people around you.”

Sammie Poitier

Did you speak on the “Badness Outta Style” tour?

[Sammie] Yes, the tour that Tempo did along with BTC. I enjoyed that. On that tour I had a lot of influence on the people of the Bahamas, so I really appreciated the opportunity to speak to them to tell them things, encourage them. We need more things like that.

While we’re talking about ‘Badness Outta Style’, what’s your take on the crime rate in the Bahamas now?

[Rancine] I don’t condone what they’re doing. But these people don’t have jobs, they’re desperate. Also, the families of murder victims are taking it into their own hands. Being a human, seeing that nothing is being done, and being outraged, I see where they’re coming from. It’s so ridiculous, we don’t go out. I don’t know if the government will be able to solve it, but as Bahamians, being thy brother’s keeper would eventually help lower it. [Sammie] It’s not just the government. We hear people blame the government all the time, but it’s not just them. The government is responsible for making sure certain things are in place, like the police force, defense force, making sure they’re properly equipped, and trained, putting them in the right place at the right time to lessen the effects. But it still starts at home. Kimya can’t grow up and be a criminal if we instill in her at this age that you don’t need to do stuff like that.   [Racine] We don’t have – what we need – are food banks. Maybe if we could incorporate that system here – like food stores, if they have food that is going bad, donate it to a food bank where people can come and get it for free. We need to do something because people out there don’t have light, they’re starving and

that’s part of the reason they’re out there doing the things that they’re out there doing.

As far as elections go, do you think that there is a hierarchy? Bahamians only seem to elect lawyers and major business owners.

[Sammie] We do. As far as our psyche is concerned we do. But in reality the capability of someone to lead a country or be a leader in the community has nothing to do with how much money you have. I think that that’s what has kept this country down, that only people that have accomplished so much are qualified to run a country, when in fact that’s not true, and that has kept a lot of normal people out, because they feel like they’re not good enough to do certain things. Once we begin to change that, this country will change.

Are you still interested in politics?

[Sammie] I am. But as a result of my personal experiences, you don’t have to be a member of parliament to affect the people around you. You can be more effective and …

More respected?

[Sammie] Exactly, you took the words out of my mouth. So in the main time, I think community building is more important than power. Once you play a big part in community building, that power is going to come from that.

Stay Connected With Sammie: www.twitter.com/SammiePoitier www.facebook.com/TheRealSammiStarr

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

MAN ON THE RISE. Giorgio Knowles

by A.C. Burrows

Photography: Barry Williams

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

“People don’t like to think, ‘how can I be different from this person here’ but that is what you need to do in order to truly stand out.”

Giorgio Knowles

He has been called a nationalist by many, but Giorgio Knowles considers himself as really just a man with both the drive and ambition to succeed. As the first featured ‘Man on The Rise’, Knowles was chosen both because of his entrepreneurial success within recent years and his status as a role model for many of the young men out there with a dream. His clothing line, Conchience Clothing is growing into one of the most recognizable Bahamian brands in the market today – and it started out as nothing more than a desire to expand the idea of Bahamian clothing. But first – the man himself. Giorgio Knowles was born into a loving family with an energetic father that had a great impact on his outlook on life and a mother whose fashion-forward way of thinking geared his own personal style. Although his childhood was as normal as any other, watching cartoons and connecting with friends, his penchant for making money started early. “I was a business man from high school days,” he says. And his way of making money? While in high school, he sold his homemade lunches and, later, charged for any privileges that his prefect status enabled him to provide. Then, at the age of twenty-one, he started really trying his hand at business. With a group of close friends, he started throwing parties that spruced up nightlife and enabled him to build contacts that would later prove pivotal in enriching his future business endeavours. In 2005, he started the first venture into his clothing line. It was an investment move for him, both monetarily and as a way to empower the vision of being patriotic. He wanted a way to bring the truth of Bahamian lifestyle to clothing, to fill the void within the tourist market that was not commercialized but, rather, honest in both representation and style. The conch was eventually chosen as the focal point for the brand – in both name and symbol – because of its association with both strength and as a definitive figure of Bahamian life. Shortly after the initial start up, the company expanded in 2007 and the manpower behind the business grew to include a close friend of Knowles, Deangelo. The pair met in the Junior Achievement program and maintained a friendship long thereafter, one that proved to be mutually beneficial. As Knowles explains, “Deangelo was the first

to really buy in to the line and came on board to help with the expansion, raising the strength of the company to a new level.” Now, just a few short years later, Conchience Clothing has grown to include six employees spread across the board who all work together to keep things running smoothly. For Knowles, momentum is kept running on the heels of teamwork, for as the team tagline suggests – a fist, fortified by the entire hand, is stronger than a finger on its own. Knowles credits his work within Conchience Clothing as being both a business experience and a self-improvement experience: “Conchience Clothing is my training, teaching me leadership and speaking skills.” It is those skills, in tandem with his knowledge and his passion to always put his best foot forward, which have propelled him further and further down the road of success. Many persons know that it is not always easy to remain triumphant in such a small yet demanding market, but Knowles does not see the challenge as a stopper. Instead, he believes strongly in the certainty of survival by remaining relevant and retaining a quality product that will keep people interested. In the end, the aim is to evolve the market for the better, to continue to expand his own line beyond online shopping and into retail stores, and to reach a certain level of brand recognition within Bahamian society and the wider world. Indeed, Giorgio Knowles has proven that ambition and originality are treasured nuggets within the business industry. His innate sense of artistry is what he’s used to propel his line forward and he tries to paint a new picture everyday as a way to remain both relevant and respected within the market. And his advice to those who wish to do the same is simply this: “Consider your differentiality and create your own image,” he says. “People don’t like to think, ‘how can I be different from this person here’ but that is what you need to do in order to truly stand out.” Thinking outside the box is what helped him to reach where he is today and is what is allowing him to reach even further heights. Oh, and one more thing to the young men out there from Giorgio Knowles: you should have at least one well-fitted suit in your closet. After all, one must always dress for success.

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_TECH&GADGETS

Techno-Savvy

by Travis Sweeting

Apple Ipad 2

Sony Ericsson Xperia Play 4G

iPhone 4S

With over 140,000 Apps, new iOS 5 operating system and Dual-core A5 chip, there is no wonder why this amazingly thin and lightweight tablet is further than all the other tablets eagerly chasing its success. The Ipad 2 comes with both front and rear cameras, FaceTime video chat, and 3G capabilities. Despite a fall in the areas of photo quality, HDMI, USB and SD ports, and the ultimate shocker - still no Adobe Flash support - the Ipad 2 is the tablet of choice worldwide. However, the only thing now is to continue holding our breaths for the Ipad 3.

By far the greatest integration of phone and gaming this part of the world has ever seen, the Xperia Play 4G by Sony has all the essential features of a smartphone while showing some clever love to gamers. Just be mindful of poor photo quality, no HDMI-out port, unresponsive gaming controls and slow data speeds.

If you are a lover of Apple products then you will fit in with the millions of people around the world who find the new iPhone 4S as one of the best smartphones available today. Upgraded with a faster processor, better camera, iOS 5 and Siri, the incredibly cool voice assistant, the iPhone 4S is a top choice if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out there looking for an upgrade.

Starts at $499 Apple.com

Starts at $29.99 AT&T wireless

Starts at $299.99 (32GB) Apple.com

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

It used to be a man’s best friend was a four-legged, hairy animal. However, the modern man has fallen face-first, head-over-heels in love with technology – electronic gadgets – to be exact. We have taken the liberty in finding the top gadgets of 2012 just for you.

Amazon Kindle Fire

Blackberry Playbook

Samsung Galaxy Note Tablet

The Kindle Fire, the latest addition to the family of digital reading devices available from Amazon, has climbed to the top of the popularity charts and has found itself to be an okay replacement to the Ipad. It comes with an impressive screen quality and even more impressive price tag in addition to the massive collection of digital music, video-on-demand, and book and magazine services. However, there are none of the advanced features (cameras, microphone, GPS, and 3G wireless), and the apps available are minimal. Nevertheless, this is perfect for the simple at heart.

Packed with RIM’s new mobile operating system, the Playbook is fast and powerful with a HDMI output, 7-inch tablet screen and integrates with Adobe Flash 10.2. Maybe during the next edition release RIM will seek to put an end to the cramping of the browser and make the Playbook a fully stand alone device - eliminating the need to pair a BlackBerry phone for use of some features.

Here’s a crazy cool smartphone for the Android lovers. With a 5.3 inch HD super AMOLED screed, the Note comes decked out with an 8-megapixel camera, and let’s not forget a 2-megapixel frontfacing camera. It also comes with a stylus that not only allows you to freestyle drawings and notes but also takes screenshots. One thing though: it still needs to be upgraded to the new Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Starts at $199 Amazon.com

Starts at $499

Starts at $684 Amazon.com

So if you’re an avid lover of electronics like the rest of us, check out these amazing new products and let us know what you think about them. mail@bruthamagazine.com

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

BRUTHA_BRUTHAMAN

finding the meaning to your life.

BY MASTIN KIPP

“Many of us spend our whole lives running from feeling with the mistaken belief that you cannot bear the pain. But you have already borne the pain. What you have not done is feel all you are beyond the pain.” - Saint Bartholomew I was driving in the car the other day with a friend and we were talking about the power of actively looking for something in your life. Like, basically, how what you see is what you find. As we were driving down Pico in Santa Monica, I suggested that we look for things that would suggest that our knowing each other was about to come to an end. I saw words like “Over”, “Exit”, “Mad” and “Stop”. It was just a game of course, but the game was powerful. It was designed to show both of us that no matter what evidence we go looking for, we will find it. And in this case, in just driving a few blocks, we had enough “evidence” from the world

BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

that if we chose to see it, we were “over” we should “exit” knowing each other, we’re obviously “mad” and we should “stop”. Is this actually true? Of course not this person and I are very close. But the point is, you will find what you go looking for. So, if you are looking for reasons why you aren’t enough - you’ll most likely find them. If you look for reasons why you should quit - there are plenty of them there. If you look for reasons why it’s not working out - yup, you guessed it - that’s there, too. But, just because you find the evidence, this doesn’t mean it’s actually true. It just means you found something

“out there” that, based on the meaning that you are giving events and circumstances, correlates with something you are looking for. The power here is that the meaning we give the events of our lives is what controls the outcome - far greater than circumstance. If I go back to that game that I was playing with my friend, if the “meaning” we were looking for were reasons to no longer hang out, and if we looked for evidence out in the world, we would surely find it. But if we looked for evidence about why we are great friends or why we will know each other most likely for the rest of our lives, we’d find that, too.

This gets back to the age-old adage: Seek and ye shall find. So, if that is true, we better be damned careful what we are looking for. At our core, all of us are beautiful, perfect, infinite and Loving Souls. Wrapped around that amazing Soul is a bunch of stories and meanings that we have created - consciously or unconsciously - over time. And when we make things mean a certain thing, we will surely find it. If we believe that ‘relationships = pain’, we’ll find it. If we think ‘men or women = assholes’, we’ll find it. If we think that no one loves us, we’ll find it. If we think that every problem is an opportunity to grow, we’ll find it. If we think that a delay is

not a denial, we’ll find it. If we think that we are more powerful than our circumstances, we’ll find it. If we think that the universe provides in perfect time, we’ll find it. This isn’t to say that if you think positive, it will all work out. Positive thinking is 1/3 of the equation. There is good reason for negative and neutral thinking, too. I’m not talking about being a Pollyanna and thinking that everything is fine. Sometimes we have crisis in our lives - but the meaning we give the crisis is everything. Is this a breakdown or a breakthrough? Shit happens, but it’s what you do about it that matters. Instead of reacting, let us respond. Responsibility is the

Email Mastin for tips and advice: thedailylove@thedailylove.com

ability to respond. This means that we have the power to choose to respond in an empowered way to our circumstances, rather than just look for reasons why we are wrong, why we are not good enough or why we should quit. If you look for problems, you’ll find problems; but if you look for grace - you’ll see that Grace walks with you at every step! Do you feel me? What meanings are you giving your life? Are they healthy or unhealthy meanings? And what is a more empowering meaning you could give the events of your life? What are you looking for? Reasons why you are wrong and not enough, or reasons for why you are on the right track? Let me know!

Visit: www.thedailylove.com BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012

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BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SPRING ISSUE 2012