“I always saw that as degrading two women on stage clashing each other and saying certain things. I apologized to my fans for doing it, but if I didn’t do it, Macka would never stop provoking me.�
CONTENT Issue 33| July 2014
10 Got Milk, Tres Leches 13 Black on Time Nice! 15 USVI Spotlight on St. John 18 25 31 35
Lady Saw Alter Ego Summer Proof Your Makeup 10 Best Foods for Flat Abs drennaLuna Goddess of the Beach
39
Should You Drain Your 401K to Start a Business
42 45
Pressure: Promoting Peace Through Music Hollywood Carnival
Calendar Events
of
ST. THOMAS
ANTIGUA
ST. MAARTEN
JANUARY
21st–22nd
17th-18th
15th
Rebel Salute Jamaica
30th-Feb. 1st
Jamaica Jazz & Blues
31st.
Oneness Reggae Festival Jamaica
9 Mile Music Festival Miami, FL
MARCH
Raggamuffin New Zealand
Dominica Mas Domnik
30th–Feb. 4th
3rd - 4th
3rd - 4th
Grenada Carriacou Regatta
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival
FEBRUARY
6th – 9th
23rd
Guyana Music Festival
St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Carnival
7th – April 27th
Jamaica Carnival
13th – 16th
Moonsplash Anguilla
28th – 30th
United Nations of Dub UK
APRIL 6th – 12th
St. Croix Food and Wine Experience
28th
Reggae on the Hill Barbados
26th – May 2nd Sailing Week Antigua
30th - May 11th
St. Lucia Jazz Festival
BARBADOS
MAY 1st – 3rd
VI Carnival St. Thomas
CHICAGO
2nd
Grenada Carriacou Maroon Music Festival
9th – 11th
Sunshine Reggae Festival on the Beach France
23rd – 25th
MIAMI JAMAICA
California Roots California
23rd – 26th
Kentucky Reggae Festival Kentuck
25th
Best of the Best Florida
JUNE 29th – Jun 1st
Ruhr Reggae Summr Germany
6th – 8th
Riddim Festival Aalborg Denmark
NEW ZEALAND
UNITED KINGDOM
8th - 14th
Jamaica Reggae Sumfest
13th – 15th
15th – 17th
20th – 22nd
26th - August 5th
Reggae in the Hills California
Sierra Nevada World Music Festival, California
Antigua Carnival
AUGUST
27th – July 5th
10th
JULY
10th-14th
St. Vincent & The Grenadines Six Flags Reggae Concert Series Vincy Festival New Jersey
1st – 3rd
Grenada Spicemas Carnival
Reggae Jam Bersenbruk, Germany
SEPTEMBER
3rd – 6th
12th – 14th
International Festival of Life Chicago
Unity Festival Guernville, CA
Lakesplash Festival Switzerland
OCTOBER
4th – 5th
4th – 6th
Summer Jam Germany
8th – 10th
6th – 12th
9th – 13th
St. Croix Food and Wine Experience
One Love Festival Leighton Buzzard, UK
26th - 28th
St. Kitts & Nevis Music Festival
6th – 8th
City of Trees Music Festival ,California
13th - 19th
Ocho Rios Jazz Festival
20th – 25th
Welcome to Jamrock Cruise Miami, FL
Riddim Stage Sonde borg, Denmark Bababoom Festiva Marina Palmense, Italy Issue 33|July 2014 5
WWW.TRIPLETHEFOCUS.COM
T RIP CARIBBEAN
A
TO THE
WITHOUT
GOING
THERE
Editor's Note OUTDOING OURSELVES! How do we top our July 2013 cover with Yendi Phillipps donning that yellow drennaLUNA plunging neckline bathing suit or August 2013 cover with Sky Nicole Grey wearing nothing but a bikini bottom? Well simple, have dancehall artist, Lady Saw grace the July cover of course. Going for a more in your face sex appeal sans the bathing suit, this maverick, as I like to think of her, dishes on sex (lingerie, masturbation and well. . .), rivalry (her clash with fellow artist Macka Diamond), staying power (how she has navigated the male dominated reggae industry), music (her upcoming album) and the future. The Queen of Dancehall has always been on my feature ‘wish list’ and when the opportunity presented itself I jumped feet first without hesitation. Her honesty has always been something that I admire and though many have referred to her style as raunchy and tasteless, she has remained true to who she is without apology. For more than twenty years she has defied the odds by calling the shots every step of the way and building her musical empire on her own terms. Lady Saw, however, is not the only one heating up our pages. USVI artist Pressure sat down with Natalie Bloom to talk about his endorsement with the USVI Tourist Board, appearance on the Wendy Williams Show and his peace concert dubbed “Virgin Island Nice.” This messenger of peace was also the inspiration for our travel feature spotlight on St. John, the smallest of the Virgin Islands. One of my personal favorites, the 28 square miles island is perfect for rest and relaxation. Rounding our scorchers is the Athena Collection from Sol by drennaLUNA. The goddess theme collection is chic, romantic and ethereal. A definite must-have! This is but a teaser of what is beyond this page. My advice grab a glass of lemonade or ice tea, put your feet up and dive right in. Enter into the Caribbean oasis that we have created just for you. When you are done, drop me a line to let me know your thoughts at editor@triplethefocus.com. I look forward to hearing from you! Happy summer!
Stacey Bethel Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@Triplethefocus.com Issue 33|July 2014 7
FOUNDER & EDITOR IN CHIEF STACEY BETHEL
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: VICTOR E. LEWIS ART & CONTENT DIRECTOR: MIKELAH ROSE
FASHION FASHION DIRECTOR: Arlene Martin (drennaLUNA) FASHION EDITOR: Camesha Powell
BEAUTY BEAUTY EDITOR: Christine Carr
FEATURES Neka Williams Malaika Lepine Shantell “SHANZ” Hill
LIFESTYLE Jo Wheeler Raine Martin
PHOTO
ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS
Marc Evans, MARC EVANS IMAGES Ajamu Myrie, AJAMU PHOTOGRAPHY
Caribbean E-Magazine, Triple the Focus launched its publication on October 5, 2011. With features that run the gamut from Music, Entertainment, Fitness, Beauty, Travel, Lifestyle and Finance, the Magazine has a reach that extends across the globe and includes countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South and Central America and by large the Caribbean. To date, the magazine has over 2,300,000 million page views not including other high traffic websites that hosts the link of the magazine on a monthly basis.
On July 23, 2013, Triple the Focus was featured on the homepage of Digital Publishing website, Issue. Out of 11 million publications, Triple the Focus’ February 2013 issue featuring athlete, Asafa Powell, June 2013 issue featuring Grammy Award winning reggae artist, Shaggy and July 2013 issue featuring 2010’ Miss Universe runner-up Yendi Phillips, were prominently featured on the site exposing the magazine to 72 million readers.
CONTACT EMAIL: Info@triplethefocus.com PHONE: 201-981-6960 (US)
Got Milk TreS LECHES
By Neka Williams
With its popularity in Latin America— Nicaragua, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Guatemala—and beyond the region, Tres Leches or Three Milks Cake is one decadent dessert. Made with what is in its name, Tres Leches is a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk. Traditionally, the three kinds of milk are evaporated milk, condensed milk, and either whole milk or heavy cream. However, it is quite all right to put a twist on a traditional recipe, especially when the outcome will be a satisfied sweet tooth. How about lacing this milky mixture with Jamaican dark rum, such as Appleton or a dark rum of your choice and coconut milk? If you are a milk lover or coconut lover, or someone who enjoys the sweet, smooth taste of dark rum, Coconut Tres Leches is perfect for you.
Tres Leches Meets the Flavor of the Tropics Total Time: 1 hr and 15 mins Ingredients: • Butter, for coating the baking dish • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 6 large eggs • 1 cup granulated sugar • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk • 2/3 cup evaporated milk cup unsweetened • ½ canned coconut milk • 1 tablespoon dark rum of your preference • 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut • 1 ½ cups heavy cream • 1 Tbsp. powdered sugar
Directions: • Heat the oven to 325°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Coat a glass-baking dish with butter; set aside. Place the flour in a small bowl and whisk to break up any lumps; set aside.
all over the cake and let cool for 15 mins. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake and continue cooling, about 45 mins. Tightly cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. • When the cake is ready to serve, spread the coconut in an even layer in a large frying pan. Toast over medium heat, stirring often, until lightly browned for about five mins. Immediately remove from the pan to a small bowl.
• Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in the bowl of a mixer. Reserve the whites in a separate, medium bowl. Add the sugar to the yolks and beat on high speed until pale yellow for about 5 mins. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl; set aside. Thoroughly clean and dry the • Place the heavy cream and mixer bowl. Place the egg powdered sugar in large bowl whites in the bowl and whip for and whisk until medium peaks about 1 ½ mins on high speed form. Slice the cake and serve topped with a mound of until medium peaks form. whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. • Using a rubber spatula, stir about a third of the egg whites into the yolk mixture to lighten Tips: it. Then gently fold in the remaining whites. Sprinkle the • To achieve the authentic taste of the Caribbean, make your flour over the egg mixture and own coconut milk and flaked gently fold it in, until there are coconut using fresh coconut. no more white flour streaks. Recipes are available online. • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake • When mixing the heavy cream and powdered sugar, flavor it cake for about 20 to 25 mins with a teaspoon of dark rum. or until the cake is puffed and golden and the edges pull away from the sides of the pan. Sounds scrumptious, right? You can even go the extra mile and • Meanwhile, place the three bake Coconut Tres Leches cupmilks and the rum in a large cakes using the same recipe. This bowl and whisk until combined Latin dessert is perfect for any occasion, and with its easy recithen set aside. pe, you now have an excuse to • Remove the cake from the indulge your senses. oven and place on a cooling rack. Using a fork, poke holes Enjoy! Issue 33|July 2014 11
EAT. DRINK. DISCOVER.
LOWER EAST SIDE 177 EAST HOUSTON CORNER OF ALLEN + HOUSTON 646.837.6100 // PRESERVE24.COM
Gucci $1290
Victorinox $750
Marc by Marc Jacobs $175
Nine West $49
Black on Time By Camesha Powell
Watches have long been a stable, functional accessory, but with the introduction of cellphones, ipods and other time equipped devices, they were seemingly becoming antiques a few years ago. That has surely reshifted with timepiece demand on a consistent increase, by not only watch enthusiasts but also the tech-obsessed cellphone generation.They are one of the few accessories that can transition seamlessly between looks from utilitarian to luxurious, and with brands across the gamut from fast-fashion to high-end, there is no limit of choices for any budget.The classic black leather band has been revamped as a must have for every stylish wrist. These are on our wish lists, what about you?
Anne Klein $75
Versace $1795
Movaado $395
Ted Lapidus $74 Issue 33|July 2014 13
THE MEMORIES WILL LAST LONG AFTER THE TRIP DOES. You’ll find paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands. You’ll also find a delicious buffet of savory flavors that’ll make your lips smile. A rich culture of music and tradition that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. A living history where you can walk the same roads as your ancestors. And the extraordinary chance to be moved by these moments—a thrill that doesn’t always happen on vacation. Lucky for you, the USVI isn’t just a vacation.
You, unscripted. Lasting memories begin at visitUSVI.com. /visitusvi
/usvitourism
©2013 U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
USVI NICE!
Spotlight on St. John Courtesy of usvi.net/st.john
E
ven though this is the smallest of the Virgins, 28 square miles in size, many say it is the loveliest. Two thirds of St John is a U.S. National Park, and here you see what the world is like when nature takes care of itself. Spend day after day on beach after beach, each with its own panoramic view. Let a friendly mongoose lead you along a woodland trail. Many of them end on a plateaux high in the sky, offering panoramic views of white beaches, emerald cays and turquoise waters. An enjoyable activity to do either with your family or with your mate is to have a picnic on a beach. Your hotel can help arrange a well packed picnic basket! Sometimes, if you are lucky, you can find a beach on St. John that is secluded and the result can be a nicely romantic afternoon. For a moment you can imagine a life as Darby Shaw!
Issue 33|July 2014 15
Other activities on St John include the trail to Rams Head on the northeast side of the island contrasts with the normal soft white sand Beaches found elsewhere on St. John. You start at the Salt Pond area, going past Trunk Bay on this two hour tour. If you are not accustomed to the heat in the Caribbean, bring sunscreen, water and a hat. In Cruz Bay there are gift shops and well stocked grocery stores; there are also dive centers and jeep rental services. Once you’ve visited, you’ll know why the natives call Cruz Bay, Love City. If you’re on the Islands for a few days, you can head out from Redhook by ferry to St. John and enjoy a dinner within walking distance of the ferry slip. This can be a nice activity to do as a couple as St. John’s nightlife is quieter than St. Thomas’s. From personal experience, it’s not advisable to overindulge, the ferry ride home can be rough if you do!
RELAX
SHOP
SAIL
DINE
Issue 33|June 2014 19
The Leading Lady’s
Alter Ego Dancehall’s reigning queen is more than just hardcore.
By Raine Martin Photos by Keith Major and William Richards
M
arion Hall/Lady Saw has had one of the most successful careers in Dancehall. In a genre where many women buckled under the struggles for attention, airplay and respect, Lady Saw has managed to stay on top of the game for more than twenty years. She emerged in the early 90s, a young girl who was unapologetically explicit about her sexuality in a time where men ruled the slackness business with lyrics that often denigrated and constrained women into
subservience. Songs like “If Him Lef,” “Hardcore,” “Woman Mi Name,” “No Less Than a Woman,” and her latest gem “Pretty Fingers” have challenged the conventions of Dancehall culture and served as anthems of empowerment to a generation of women. Her latest album Alter Ego set to drop in August explores the many sides of not only Lady Saw, but Marion Hall, the woman behind the tough and raunchy façade. In her own words, here is what Lady Saw had to say about her upcoming album, her career and her female counterparts.
Issue 33|July 2014 19
Your new album is called Alter Ego – it features Lady Saw and Marion Hall. What is the difference between? Lady Saw is hardcore, outspoken, will say things that will shock people. And then Marion Hall is the more laid back, Jazz & Blues type of girl. So there is Jazz & Blues on it, some laid back reggae. There is also Ali, the former lead singer of UB40 on there, Beres Hammond, and Flo Rida on the remix of “Heels On,” and I’m now sending a track out to Estelle.
“Pretty Fingers” is hot. Everybody loving it, but they are also asking for the raw version. I’m thinking about going back into the studio and doing a raw version. It’s also a song called “STD.” When I say STD, people gonna wonder ‘is it a hardcore song about somebody give her STD?’ But it’s gonna be like (singing):
You already brought me drama You already brought me pain You already bought me flowers The song I wrote for Beres is beautiful. It’s Then you scandalize my name a story of a young girl who was good until You already brought me stress something happened in her life to change You already brought me grief You already brought me STD her perspective: And tried to flip that shit on me (singing) One of the things that people love about She was fine young lady you and your music, and it’s the same kind Going off to school every morning But the good girl abide by her parents’ of thing with Vybz Kartel, is that you guys explore a lot of topics when it comes to sex rules that Dancehall culture typically shies away She was a darling Until that day when her innocence was from. Let me tell you, when I first started out, I started out singing song like (singing) taken And from that day it’s like her whole world “Am I losing you darling” and everybody was like ‘okay, she’s just another girl.’ was shaken When my first manager went out with some She has changed of my tracks, they said ‘oh we don’t want I have a song on it called “Twitter Bad to buy females, they falling off the riddim, It,” you’re gonna love it. It’s a hardcore they’re not selling…” I noticed all the boys Dancehall song. Instead of me going to were doing these x-rated songs that were prison for a girl, doing something physical explicit but they were degrading women, you know, so I started singing the same to a woman to harm her mi seh: songs about the vagina but instead I was telling women how to keep it clean, how (deejaying) to protect it, how to use it and that was Before me guh a prison fi a gyal when I get the big break. People were like Mi jus twitter bad it ‘damn! Did she just say that?!’ Kartel came Talk one a bag a ting after me, and he was more like, you know, And just twitter bad it boom! But I’m the one who started it. Put har picture pon mi page mek dem twitter drag it Who were some of the female deejays that Is “Pretty Fingers” on the album? Ha! Yes! influenced you in the early days? Surprisingly, the women didn’t influence (laughs) “Pretty Fingers” is on the album. me like that really. It was Tenor Saw who – I Speaking of Lady Saw being outspoken used to idolize this man. I started singing like and saying outrageous things – explain to him and we sounded alike. I used to listen to me what “Pretty Fingers” is about? “Pretty Sister Nancy, I used to listen to Lady Patra, Fingers” is about loving yourself. If you and there was Sister Charmaine, Junie don’t have a man, you need to reach for Ranks, Lady Ann was there, there was this those fingers, whichever one you choose girl called Lady P. All of them were there and just love yourself. All of them can love before me, but I was really into Tenor Saw, you, you know, you can rub them on you, that’s where I got my name from. I used to girl, they can make you feel good. Just listen to them, but not to say I idolized this keep them clean and pretty at all time, one or this one influenced me. and that’s where you get the safest sex.
Do you listen to any of the newer females out now? There are a lot of them in Jamaica. But the thing is I don’t get on well with the girls. I don’t know if they’re intimidated by me, some wanna be me, do what I do…some complain that I’ve been in the game too long and I need to step aside and let the younger ones – but I’m not in anybody’s way, I’m doing what I know, what I’m used to doing. It’s not like I’m copying somebody’s stuff, it’s just me and my talent. The ones who wanna take my spot have a problem with me. But…more luck to them, more power to them. I have no problem with them, they have a problem with me. People – well society in general – has taught women that once we pass a certain age or stage in life, that we are too old – we are no longer sexy, we shouldn’t dress a certain way, or sing certain songs. What is your response to people that think you are too old to still be doing what you do? What is old? I got my Tina Turner legs, still standing firm with my muscle up in there. I tell people I am a forty-something year old woman with a teenage vagina and fifteen-year-old boobs. Age is just a number. I have a song, (singing) age is just a number/ain’t nothing wrong with forty-two/we all ain’t getting younger/so what the (pause) is up with you. Forty is the new twenty right now. You’ve stated several times that you were giving up Dancehall to become Christian and do Gospel. I used to be a Seventh Day Adventist. I grow up believing in God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible. While I was going through that drama with all the other females and in my personal life, I start talking to God a lot and I start experiencing certain things…getting into the Holy Ghost and things…and I was wondering is this it? Should I completely cross over? I started talking to Christians who were into Dancehall and some tell me ‘Still drop your Alter Ego album, and when God calls you the right time, you will know. When he’s ready you can’t say no.’ I still do my Gospel songs. I have a Gospel album, half done, and I’m still gonna drop that too. Your clash with Macka Diamond – it was the first time in a long time I’ve seen two women deejays clash, and I enjoyed it – I didn’t. You didn’t? No. Throughout my career, I always saw that as degrading - two women on stage clashing each other and saying certain things. I apologized to my fans for doing it, but if I didn’t do it, Macka would never stop provoking me.
Issue 33|July 2014 21
“The one thing I’d like to accomplish, musically, is that I’d like to have my own album nominated for the Grammy, or get a chance to win a Grammy.”
I’ve never had a clash before so she was thinking ‘she don’t know anything about clash, so she can’t clash, and watch me and her,” you know. She didn’t know I was a sickhead. I knew her for years, and I remember when she was clashing back in the day, I would write for her and help her. I walked off stage (at Sting) because I felt really bad about it. You’ve won a Grammy, you’ve hit number three on the Billboards with No Doubt. You’ve had your own crossover hits with “I Got Your Man” and “Heels On.” You’ve had collaborations with a variety of international artists – With Eve, Missy Elliot, Foxy Brown, Paul McCartney, with people I don’t even remember the names. I did good. On the album Flo Rida is gonna do the “Heels On” remix. Mr. Beres Hammond, it’s an honor, he doesn’t do collaborations with any and anybody. Ali from UB40.
musically, is that I’d like to have my own album nominated for the Grammy, or get a chance to win a Grammy. That is why this album – I spent time on it. It has all the quality and all genres of music. I have my own label, Divas Record. I’ve produced other artists – Beenie Man, Spragga Benz, even Vybz Kartel. I produced one of his big song (deejaying) gal mek you a gwaan suh/wine like seh you know seh me love yuh/ me nah put nuh gyal above yuh… that was my song, but a lot of people didn’t know I was the producer. I was busy on my own career, so I wasn’t out there like ‘I produced this song.’
Is there anything else that you have in the pipelines? You know, I’ve been wanting to do a lingerie line forever. For the longest time, I’ve had design ideas. I had a song called “Condoms,” and I remember I drew some boyshorts that had little pockets on them in the front for you to put your condoms. That gave me the idea of What is the one thing you’d like to achieve coming out with a line where some of the styles coincide with some of the names of musically, that you haven’t. The one thing I’d like to accomplish, my songs. I think I’m going go for it.
www.bartenura.com /bartenurablue @bartenurablue
FOCUSED ON | Beauty
Summer Proof Your Makeup By Christene Carr
Wearing a full face of makeup during summer months can be a bit tricky. Temperatures in the 80s, 90s and beyond paired with humidity can give the feeling of being in a sauna. While finding products that work well in these conditions can be challenging, it is not impossible. Below are a few Budge Proof Summer Makeup Musts to get you flawlessly through the heat and humidity.
Primer
If you’re going to stand a chance of keeping your makeup from sliding off your face, a proper primer is essential. Mally’s Perfect Prep Poreless Primer minimizes fine lines, wrinkles, and pores while creating a perfect canvas over which to apply makeup. http://www.mallybeauty.com $35
Foundation If you have flawless skin, you no doubt can get away with wearing only sunscreen, and tinted moisturizer. However, for those wanting to correct skin tone and cover any blemishes or spots, BECCA Ultimate Coverage Complexion Créme is a great option. It is a highly pigmented water resistant foundation that wearsforupto24hours. It is available in 20 shades. Sephora.com$44
Cheeks A good blush can wake up the face with only a couple sweeps of the brush. Cargo Blush is a long wearing highly pigmented formula with a shade range that’s flattering on all skin tones. Macys.com $26 Issue 33|July 2014 25
Eyes IT Cosmetics Liner Love Waterproof Anti Aging Creme Gel Liner contains hydrolyzed silk, shea butter, green tea extract and jojoba to nourish skin while providing a smooth, even application. It is formulated to wear for up to 12 hours and is available in 6 shades. IT Cosmetics. com $24
Lashes
Brows
Make Up For Ever Aqua Brow is a waterproof formula that fills, shapes and lengthens brows. It can last all day and is available in 6 shades. Sephora.com $20
One way to ensure lashes stay fabulous during summer months is to use a waterproof mascara. Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Waterproof Mascara will give you voluminous lashes to take you from day to night without a smudge. Maybelline.com $7.99
Lips L’Oréal Paris Colour Caresse Shine Stain is lightweight with concentrated pigments to give great color payoff. The formulation is hydrating and can last 4-5 hours without reapplication. It is available in several shades. www.lorealparisusa.com $9.99
FOCUSED ON | Health
The 10 Best Foods for Flat Abs Courtesy of Fitness Magazine
Eat up for flatter abs -- these waist-whittling foods give you a dose of ab-ulous nutrients in every bite.
Almonds
Eggs
These delicious and versatile nuts contain filling protein and fiber, not to mention vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. They’re also a good source of magnesium, a mineral your body must have in order to produce energy, build and maintain muscle tissue, and regulate blood sugar. “A stable blood-sugar level helps prevent cravings that can lead to overeating and weight gain,” says David Katz, MD, a professor at the Yale University School of Medicine. But what makes almonds most interesting is their ability to block calories. Research indicates that the composition of their cell walls may help reduce the absorption of all of their fat, making them an extra-lean nut.
You won’t find a more perfect protein source. Eggs are highly respected by dietitians because of their balance of essential amino acids (protein building blocks used by your body to manufacture everything from muscle fibers to brain chemicals). We like them because they keep our hands out of the cookie jar. Researchers at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center found that when people ate eggs in the morning, they felt less hungry throughout the day than when breakfast consisted of complex carbohydrates like bagels. “The protein and fat in the egg may be contributing to the feeling of satiety,” says lead researcher Nikhil V. Dhurandhar, PhD.
Try for: An ounce a day (about 23 almonds), with approximately 160 calories. An empty Altoids tin will hold your daily dose perfectly.
Try for: One egg a day, unless you have high blood cholesterol, in which case you should check with your doctor first. (One egg packs about 213 milligrams of cholesterol.)
Soy
Apples
Soybeans are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Snack on dry-roasted soybeans, toss shelled edamame into soups, and slip a spoonful of silken tofu into your morning smoothie. Liquid soy also makes a good meal replacement: A study from the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that overweight subjects who drank a soy milk-based meal replacement lost more weight than those who consumed a traditional dairy-based diet drink. Try for: Twenty-five grams of whole (not isolated) soy protein daily. A half cup of steamed edamame contains about 130 calories and 11 grams of protein. Four ounces of tofu (94 calories) contain 10 grams. Choose whole soy foods over products packed with “isolated soy protein” -- the latter may not provide all the benefits of whole soybeans.
A 2003 study in the journal Nutrition found that overweight women who consumed three apples or pears a day for three months lost more weight than their counterparts who were fed a similar diet with oat cookies instead of fruits. “A large apple has five grams of fiber, but it’s also nearly 85 percent water, which helps you feel full,” explains Elisa Zied, RD, author of So What Can I Eat?! (Wiley, 2006). Apples also contain quercetin, a compound shown to help fight certain cancers, reduce cholesterol damage, and promote healthy lungs. Try for: An apple (or two) a day. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that the Red Delicious, Cortland, and Northern Spy varieties had the highest antioxidant activity.
Berries Most are loaded with fiber, every dieter’s best friend. The more fiber you eat -- experts say that it’s best to get between 25 and 35 grams every day -the fewer calories you absorb from all the other stuff you put in your mouth. That’s because fiber traps food particles and shuttles them out of your system before they’re fully digested. Berries (and other fruits) are also high in antioxidants, which not only help protect you from chronic diseases like cancer but may also help you get more results from your workouts. “Antioxidants help improve blood flow, which can help muscles contract more efficiently,” says Dr. Katz. Try for: At least half a cup daily, or about 30 calories’ worth. Don’t limit yourself to the usual suspects, like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries. If you can find them, add boysenberries, gooseberries, and black currants to the mix for excitement.
Leafy Greens
Their cancer-preventing carotenoids won’t help shrink your waistline, but their low calorie count definitely will. One cup of spinach contains only about 40 calories, while a cup of broccoli has 55 calories and satisfies 20 percent of your day’s fiber requirement. Most leafy greens are also a good source of calcium, an essential ingredient for muscle contraction. In other words, they help fuel your workouts. Try for: Three servings daily. Keep a bag of prewashed baby spinach in your fridge and toss a handful into soups, salads, pasta dishes, stir-fries, and sandwiches. When you get sick of spinach, reach for a bunch of arugula, broccoli rabe, or broccolini, a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale.
Yogurt People who get their calcium from yogurt rather than from other sources may lose more weight around their midsection, according to a recent study published in the International Journal of Obesity. The probiotic bacteria in most yogurts help keep your digestive system healthy, which translates into a lower incidence of gas, bloating, and constipation, which can keep your tummy looking flat.
Veggie Soup
Researchers at Pennsylvania State University found that people who ate broth-based (or low-fat cream-based) soups two times a day were more successful in losing weight than those who ate the same amount of calories in snack food. Soup eaters also maintained, on average, a total weight loss of 16 pounds after one year. “Plus, it’s a simple way to get your vegetables,” says Susan Kleiner, PhD, RD, author of Power Eating (Human Kinetics, 2001). Try for: At low-sodium
least one vegetable
cup of low-calorie, soup every day.
Salmon
Seafood, especially fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These uber-healthy fats may help promote fat burning by making your metabolism more efficient, according to Kleiner. An Australian study showed that overweight people who ate fish daily improved their glucose-insulin response. Translated, this means that seafood may help slow digestion and prevent cravings. If that doesn’t hook you, consider this: Seafood is an excellent source of absfriendly protein. Try for: Two four-ounce servings per week. Wild salmon, though pricey, contains more omega-3 fatty acids than farm-raised. (If it doesn’t say wild, it’s farm-raised.) If seafood’s not your thing, you can get your omega-3’s from flaxseed (grind and sprinkle on your cereal) or walnuts.
Quinoi Never heard of it? Pronounced KEEN-wah, this whole grain contains 5 grams of fiber and 11 grams of protein per half cup. Cook it as you would any other grain (although some brands require rinsing). Quinoa’s nutty flavor and crunchy-yet-chewy texture are like a cross between whole-wheat couscous and short-grain brown rice. Try for: At least one half-cup serving (a third of your whole-grain requirements) per day. Try substituting AltiPlano Gold brand instant quinoa hot cereal (160 to 210 calories per packet), in Chai Almond and Spiced Apple Raisin, for oatmeal. Look for it in health-food stores.
Try for: One to three cups a day of low-fat or fatfree yogurt. Choose unsweetened yogurt that contains live active cultures. Add a handful of fresh chopped fruit for flavor and extra fiber. Issue 33|July 2014 29
1633 Broadway, 30th Floor, New York, NY 10019
Goddess of the Beach Summer is here and the essential wardrobe for days at the beach is now required. However this in no way suggests that you should put aside your basic, blah items that appear on racks each year. Instead tap into your inner goddess and not only stay cool but look amazing doing so. Take a look at our Athena collection from Sol by drennaLUNA. Photographer: Marc Evans (MarcEvansImages.com) Stylist & Make-up: Angelie Martin-Spencer Clothing: drennaLUNA (drennaLUNA.com)
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Classic, Yet Simple
Some girls want the train and fancy fabric, but not too much fuss. This dress pairs the fancy fabric with a simple silhouette. Playing on the feathered texture of the dress, we created a feathered fascinator to complete her look.
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Should you drain your 401(k) to start a business?
FOCUSED ON | Finance
(Courtesy CNN Money)
If you’re saving for retirement, one of a big believer in no debt,” he said. the cardinal rules is: “Don’t touch your “I had paid off my house, my cars. I 401(k) until you retire.” didn’t want to take out a loan to buy the building.” Eric Schneider followed it diligently during his 25 years selling commercial As he researched financing options, insurance. But two years ago, he he came across ROBS, or Rollovers as emptied his nest egg to launch Business Startups. These allow people Headrush Roasters Coffee & Tea in to use the money in their 401(k) to Kansas City, Mo. “I took a big risk, but start a business (or buy an existing I don’t regret it at all,” said Schneider, one) without paying taxes on the 49, who co-owns the business with his withdrawn funds or getting hit with an wife Nancy. early withdrawal penalty. Schneider left his six-figure job in 2010 with $250,000 in his 401(k) and $100,000 in savings. In 2011, he found a vacant building that he thought would be perfect for his coffee shop and roastery. He hoped to lease it, but the owner only wanted to sell. “I’m
The process can be pretty complicated, however. First, you must incorporate a business and open a new 401(k) plan under it. Then you roll your existing 401(k) funds into the new plan. Since both accounts are tax-exempt, you avoid taking the tax hit. Issue Issue33|July 30|April2014 2014 39 27
As owner of the new company, you can now direct what the 401(k) invests in. With ROBS, the new company typically issues shares that you can purchase using money from the 401(k). You’re then free to use the cash from that purchase for operational expenses (although owners must pay their own salaries out of revenue, not from the 401(k) funds).
are first-time entrepreneurs who are choosing a second career,” he said.
Cofounder David Nilssen said his firm has had 9,000 entrepreneurs take advantage of the financing option, and 80% of them are still in business after four years.
Meanwhile, Schneider was able to buy the building with the $250,000 from his 401(k). He spent his $100,000 in savings on remodeling and equipment and opened Headrush in 2012.
But the firm’s services don’t come cheap. Guidant charges clients $4,995 initially and $119 a month for advisory services after that. (While that’s not required, the complexity of the arrangement means most entrepreneurs keep the accounts with Guidant to ensure regular compliance.)
If he ever sells the business, he’ll put the money back into the 401(k) plan. If the business fails, he won’t have to pay a penalty but he also won’t have his retirement cushion. After two years in business, the company is set to log a profit this year. It has seven employees and is looking to open more locations. “It’s been a win-win for me, the government and the economy,” Schneider said. “I’ve created a business, the government is collecting taxes on my business and I’m hiring people.”
Still, Stuart Ritter, senior financial planner and vice president with T. Rowe Price, said ROBS can be risky. “With ROBS, you’re putting 100% of your retirement saving into a single security,” he said. “People really have to think about this.” It can also be difficult for entrepreneurs While the IRS does not consider to rebuild their nest egg. ROBS an “abusive tax-avoidance transaction,” the agency calls the Chrissy and Mike Mayhew opened arrangement “questionable” and has Beach House Miracles, a renovation strict compliance standards to avoid firm, in Ocean View, Del., in 2008. They penalties (and audits). didn’t have capital so they funded the startup using $100,000 from their 401(k). Because the process was so involved, Today, they have five employees and Schneider signed up with Bellevue, logged $1 million in revenue last year. Wash.-based Guidant Financial, which But even though the business has is among a handful of financing firms been successful, they have yet to start that help entrepreneurs set up ROBS. contributing to their retirement plan. Still, Guidant began offering ROBS in 2004, they’re comfortable with their decision. and it has become the firm’s signature “The gamble paid off for us,” Chrissy product. said.
“This option isn’t for everyone,” said Nilssen. “There’s a niche market for it, and individuals who’ve accumulated enough assets in life are more open to it.” He said their ROBS clients are typically between 40 and 60 years old, own their own homes and have advanced degrees with a combined household income of over $75,000. “60% of them
Pressure Promoting Peace Through Music By Natalie Bloom
Universal love in infinite time is a beautiful sentiment and one o messages that resonates through the music of Delyno “Pressure B The USVI native released his fourth album this past April entitled has an anticipated fifth album entitled, Africa Redemption to b this year.
A peaceful and spiritual man, Pressure’s lyrics are filled with cons enrich humanity. Messages we can all relate to in combination rhythms create an inviting ambiance, taking the listener on a v This is quite fitting considering Pressure’s newest endeavor as USVI, promoting travel and tourism for the summer.
Pressure performed the single “Virgin Island Nice” on The Wendy March, kicking off the campaign. In addition to endorsing a vis homeland, fans can look forward to the 2nd Annual Virgin Isla Concert, taking place in USVI on August 30th.
of the underlying Buss Pipe” Brown. d, The Sound and be released later
scious efforts that n with feel good vacation of sorts. ambassador for
y Williams Show in sit to his beautiful and Nice Peace
FOCUSED ON | Music The name Pressure Buss Pipe came from the virtue of hard times and daily struggles. Tell us about your journey in acquiring this name? I gave myself the name pressure when I was facing a lot of pressure. I was still in the 12th grade while living on my own, hustling to make ends meet and still trying to pursue a music career. The name buss pipe was added when I met this elderly lady who knew my family very well. She asked my name and I refused to give her my real name and her reply was “pressure buss pipe” which is an old phrase. I started to use the phrase and it became popular so now people just refer to me as “buss pipe”. Your music is full of conscious messages. What would you say is the main lesson? Is this something that comes naturally for you? The main message in the music is Universal Love. A message that transcend to all ages that not even time can limit. With the release of the album, entitled “The Sound” in April this year and the highly anticipated album, entitled “Africa Redemption” releasing later in 2014, what can roots reggae fans listen for in comparison of the two projects? The album entitled “The Sound” was produced by a Virgin Islands base record label called Igrade Records. The album consist of strictly roots reggae music that had been dominant in the VI reggae industry. The next album called “Africa Redemption” which was produced by Trevor “Baby G” James carries the same element but with a crossover and Commercial appeal. Nevertheless both of the albums are expected to be my greatest work thus far. What has your experience been like being part of Star Lion Family reggae group verses establishing yourself as a solo act? The Star Lion family was a great part of my life because at that time I understood what true brotherhood was about. That was where it all started and it was them that prepared me to be a solo act. The Star Lion family consisted of 7 artists including myself that came from different communities in St. Thomas. We were never limited to just being a group because we had more songs by ourselves and we only had a hand full that we wrote together. In reaching the masses with your messages of peace and unity through roots reggae, is there something different to expect with regard to your sound coming from the Virgin Islands rather than the sound out of Jamaica? Well I must say that I have developed my own style after listening to artist like Sizzla, Jah Mason, Capleton, Buju Banton, Beres Hammond etc. That early era of culture music in the 90s has been a big inspiration to my life. That same experience is what I want for my fans to experience. My objective is to keep real and true reggae music alive. You’ve worked with many influential people in the industry. Is there one defining memory that stands out as a surreal moment? The surreal moment for me would have to be working with Stephen Marley and Damian Marley. Their music has motivated me through many trial times in my life and it was a great feeling to be working with them in the studio. The 2nd annual Virgin Island Nice Peace Concert in St. Thomas is August 30th. Tell us about your vision for this event. The Virgin Islands Nice Peace concert was very successful last year we had over 2500 attendees which made it a great success. My vision for this concert was to bring people together through positive music and to create a platform for exposing new and great talent. Issue 33|July 2014 43
SUNSHINE & SOCA By Jo Wheeler
Summer is finally here and what better way to celebrate its June 21st arrival than chipping down Hollywood Blvd under the California sun. It was definitely a good place to be. The LA Cultural Festival better known as “Hollywood Carnival” staged its 3rd annual event during the first official weekend of summer and fortunately for us, the idea to celebrate Caribbean Heritage Month with a ‘Carnival Style’ parade put it on our ‘Carnival Run 2014’ tour schedule.
simply because we love Soca. Disclaimer: I like Machel Montano. I have been a fan of his long before there was an HD Family and have paid a lot of money to see an uncountable number of performances for many years. That said, no matter how much I like an artist, I have never liked blatant favoritism. And the amount of Machel music played verses the whole of other artists was easily 10 – 1. And that’s no exaggeration. For every 10 Machel songs that played – be it at a fete, on a Billed as 6 days of events (but really more truck, or at the carnival village – one other like 8) the creators of “Hollywood Carnival” artist got in the mix. But several days of have done very well for themselves in such that can be too much for anybody. a short amount of time. The biggest catch of all and the thing that may put Hollywood That was my personal complaint not the Carnival on the map was the support from patrons. Their biggest complaint was the Soca King himself, Machel Montano. the new layout of the carnival village. It wasn’t clear if Machel’s involvement Apparently the previous two years, the came about because he now lives in LA village was setup as a long thruway, a or because as a good business man he block so to speak, that ended at the stage saw the perfect opportunity to head his so that no matter where you were, you own carnival. His participation as more had a clean view of the performances. than just a performer is great validation for This year, the village was in a square lot an event trying to establish itself. cut in half by vendor booths which meant that you couldn’t see the stage and The Happiest Man Alive hosted a new support the vendors at the same time. section in the carnival’s mas band Extacy, Additionally, you could not leave the bar called EPIC (of course), which won all area – which had no shade or chairs with the judging competitions (of course). I’m your drinks, so you had to quickly consume sure it was a win-win for the organizers alcohol in the burning sun before returning but for real carnivalians, true feters, there to the festivities. is a downside to Machel’s involvement, Issue 33|July 2014 45
Another issue ‘Hollywood Carnival’ will have to resolve is the band judging point. The battle between judges and patrons trying to see the band presentations was like the New York subway at rush hour and after a while the mass shoving for position got a bit ugly, taking away from the jovialness of the celebration. There has to be some sort of separation so the judges and accredited media get a clear view of the bands. All in all, we were very impressed with what the LA Cultural Festival and Hollywood Carnival are building and what they have accomplished in just three years. It’s well timed for the first weekend of summer, midJune is perfect weather in Los Angeles and it doesn’t conflict with other carnivals, it’s
a great celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month and Black Music month, the parade route is on Hollywood Blvd one of the most popular streets in all of the US, the biggest Caribbean DJ’s are already on board and the biggest name in Carnival is your leader. It has all the elements in place to make it an excellent Carnival product. In fact, if it continues in the direction its going, “Hollywood Carnival” may very well set itself up to becoming one of the Top 10 festivals on the International Carnival Calendar. And we hope it does. Now when it gets to the point where it can weed out the Reggae and HipHop for pure Soca, I’ll be hooked.
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