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JUSTICE HAS NO COLOR
revolt issue GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN
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Lentheus Chaney EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Clorissa X. Wright MANAGING EDITOR Dennis Malcolm Byron LIFESTYLE EDITOR Clyde Anderson FINANCE FEATURES EDITOR Brice Esso STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Ish Holmes STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Carlton Powell DIVERSITY FEATURES EDITOR Janssen Robinson FINE ARTS EDITOR Dr. Rondrick Williamson HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITOR
FOLLOW US EVERYWHERE! @urbanluxmag Š Urban Luxury Media, LLC 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher Urban Luxury Media. The views expressed in Urban Lux Magazine are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. The registered office of Urban Luxury Media is 6040 Dawson Blvd., Suite F, Norcross, GA 30093. All information contained in the magazine is for information only and is as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Urban Luxury Media cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such format. Readers are advised to contact manufactures and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Urban Luxury Media a license to publish your submission in whole, or in part, in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk and, although every care is taken, neither Urban Luxury Media nor its employees, agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage. Published four times a year by Urban Luxury Media, LLC 4565 Kent Road Atlanta, GA 30337
LET’S CONNECT. . .
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CONTRIBUTORS NIECY NASH
MARRIAGE, MOTHERHOOD, HER ROLE IN THE FILM SELMA & LIVING HER WILDEST DREAMS
JAMAICA A LUX GETAWAY
#ICANTBREATHE
JUSTICE HAS NO COLOR
revolt issue GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN
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A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
#ICANTBREATHE JUSTICE HAS NO COLOR
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014 was full of joy, triumph, pain and suffering. News of the Royal family’s newest prince, the second inauguration of Barack Obama and ongoing international conflict flashed across our screens and on the front pages of our local newspapers. One theme that continued to overwhelm our senses via cellphone video, mainstream and social media was the issue of police brutality and their use of excessive force.
Such a response has not been witnessed since the non-violent marches lead by Martin Luther King Jr. to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965. The hashtags #blacklivesmatter and #icantbreathe lit up social media—sparking emotional and sometimes hateful debates about race in America. One thing is for sure, no one can deny the fact that we indeed still have a problem.
These violent acts played out for the world to see just as they did over 50 years ago.
Although the debate on social justice continues, my stance on the issue is clear—#icantbreathe unless #everyonecanbreathe because #justicehasnocolor.
The untimely deaths of young black men including Michael Brown and Eric Gardner and unfavorable rulings from the Grand Jury ignited a grassroots movement across this country.
It is an honor to present the winter 2015 Revolt issue of Urban Lux Magazine featuring actress Niecy Nash and several individuals that continue to shine a light in their communities even during difficult times. Enjoy! ~ Lentheus Chaney
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CONTRIBUTORS
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1: LAMAR DIXON
4: STEVEN SUMMERSILL
2: NICKI SALCEDO
5: DIRK DURAN SMITH
3: FAITH CARMICHAEL
6: NINA PARKER
Lamar is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. When he’s not thinking of ways to integrate Old Bay seasoning into cocktails, Lamar spends his time memorizing scenes from Martin and hosting the Just Different and Live For Tonight lounge series. @Marlicioso410
Nicki Salcedo is a graduate of Stanford University with a degree in English and creative writing. She is a two-time recipient of the Maggie Award of Excellence and a Golden Heart© Finalist. Her debut novel, ALL BEAUTIFUL THINGS, is set in Atlanta, and she writes a weekly column called Intersections for Decaturish.com. She lives nearby with her four children, husband, and a cat. @NickiSalcedo
Faith Carmichael is a musician, writer, PR strategist and arts activist. She is the co-founder and Executive Director of NEXT (next-Atlanta.com) and principal of its parent company Mustard Seed Communications. When not putting out communication fires for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, she is a working musician and avid arts activist. A member of the NBAF board, she was recently selected to the Arts Leaders of Metro Atlanta Class of 2014. A jazz musician, she also provides lead vocals for local Atlanta group, the Faith Carmichael 5. faithcarmichael.com
Steven Summersill is a certified strength and conditioning coach. He created his company Summer Body Workouts in 2006. With the gift to relate to people and the passion of fitness, he has accepted the challenge to help people find the best in themselves and has proven to get his clients the results they desire. @SummerbodyWO
Dirk’s life’s purpose is to coach business professionals in all aspects of managing their career. As a Professional Career Coach & Registered Corporate Coach for 15-years, he understands the recruiting and hiring process from the decision maker’s perspective which results in offering guidance looking through the lens of the decision-makers versus the individual. @AGentleman955
Beginning her career working in local news in San Francisco, Nina Parker moved to Los Angeles to help launch a small start-up entertainment website now known as TMZ. After leaving the show after four years, Nina served not only as talent and producer, but a writer as well, landing a position as a corespondent at The Insider at CBS. In addition, Nina serves as an expert for all things pop culture and appears regularly on national and local entertainment shows such as Wendy Williams, Ricki Lake, Showbiz Tonight , Good Day LA, and TV Guide. @mzgossipgirl
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CONTENTS 10 LUX APPROVED Against The Grain
16 LUX MARKET WATCH Marsala Takes Over
18 FIND YOUR INSPIRATION I Hate My Job!
20 FEATURE Niecy’s World
24 FASHION
In The Key of Lifestyle
32 STYLE Waraire Boswell - Design Rhythms
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34 CULTURE Karla Ferguson - The Rebel With a Cause
36 COMMUNITY The Arthur Wylie Foundation
38 LUX AUTO The 44th Annual Miami International Auto Show
40 LUX DESTINATIONS Jamaica - A Lux Getaway
42 LUX ESSENTIALS Revolt Against The Old You
43 PULSE Outside The Box - A Holistic Approach
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44 LUX LOVE Dia Simms - Mastermind, Mogul & Wife
46 ECONOMY Turn Your Passion Into Profit
ON THE COVER: NIECY NASH
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JAMAICA
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#ICANTBREATHE
JUSTICE HAS NO COLOR
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AGAINST THE GRAIN TRUE entrepreneurship takes courage, stamina and faith. And despite the slim odds of financial success, many business owners manage to turn their dreams into profitable realities. We got insight from four small business owners going against the grain and building new businesses from the ground up. They shared their struggles and success; and lent golden nuggets of advice for those considering an entrepreneurial path in 2015. Story by LENTHEUS CHANEY
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OLD Fourth Distillery (O4D) is the
first distillery in the city of Atlanta since prohibition in 1906. O4D was founded by brothers Craig and Jeff Moore along with their childhood friends Gabe Pilato, Justin Gray and Andy DuVall. In 2013, O4D started a Kickstarter campaign to help raise funds to complete construction on the distillery and was able to receive 361 backers with pledges totaling $40,372.
Tell us the personal risk associated with launching a new business? With any new business, especially one that is breaking new ground, comes with risks – both personal and professional. I think too many people are afraid to take personal risks because of the potential for failure and how that might reflect on them personally. We kind of feel differently about our businesses. Partly because we have achieved success and know that if we have a good idea and work hard and focus on our execution, we can do great things. Starting this business, however, has certainly stolen focus from some of our other enterprises and has pulled resources from those same businesses. Not only that, but the sheer amount of time necessary to start a distillery and to begin production has proven to be monumental. What was has been your greatest fear or obstacle thus far? Honestly, our biggest concern to date is our ability to produce enough product to meet what we expect to be tremendous demand. We worry that we will not be able to keep up and our facility will need immediate expansion in order for us to fulfill the demands just in the Atlanta marketplace. What has been your greatest reward thus far? That’s easy, the reward is seeing the excitement and support from the community. We could not be more
On Nov. 20, 2014, the Distillery officially opened to the public for tours and tastings and the vodka made available in Georgia stores, bars and restaurants on Dec. 19, 2014. The Distillery is located off of Edgewood Avenue and is currently producing vodka but will soon introduce gin, whisky and bourbon in the future. Tours and tastings will be offered to the public on Thursdays 2 – 7 p.m. and can be scheduled online at o4d.com or by phone at 844-OLD-FOUR. humbled and gratified to know that we are bringing Atlanta something that it has not had in over a hundred years. What makes your business stand out? Well, being first in Atlanta certainly is a huge feather in our cap. But we want our product and the presentation of our product to stand on its own merit. We work incredibly hard to produce every bottle of vodka that we make and we think the slow handmade product really does have a character that can’t be found in a mass produced industrial spirit. What advice would give an aspiring entrepreneur? Take risks, find a mentor and most of all trust, in the fact that 99 percent of success comes from hard work and responsiveness to your customer. The other one percent is intelligence and if you simply know what you’re talking about and are responsive, you will be a success. What are your plans for expansion? The biggest thing for us is to find more space in Old Fourth Ward so we can develop an even greater presence in the neighborhood that we have modeled our distillery after. It really boils down to more space and equipment to expand our production capability so we can then bring Atlanta’s first spirit since 1906 to the rest of the country and the world.
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LUX APPROVED
VIBB RIDE is a boutique indoor cycling studio located in the vibrant,
terrain, and (3) a unique “Rhythm Rides” method, developed by the founders, that pairs cycling with upper-body movements. Vibe Ride’s classes possess a level of quality, intimacy, convenience and service not available in the large health clubs and gyms where indoor cycling is most often offered. Schedule your first ride at theviberide.com.
Tell us the personal risk associated with launching a new business? Taking a huge liability both financially and time wise. We both have full time careers and opening a business is like birthing a child. She does not sleep and she is always hungry or crying, meaning we never sleep and Vibe Ride is tattooed on our foreheads. We have dumped vast amounts of our savings, energy and sweat into a dream that was once just a thought that turned into a business plan that became a reality.
What advice would give an aspiring entrepreneur? Make your dream a reality and do your research! Research the people you hire because no one is going to have the passion for your dream like you do! Also, take your budgeted number and add to it! There is no such thing as having too much money.
active, Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. Owners Courtney Anderson and Rebecca Colett have created a space with top instructors and three different cycling methods: (1) “Technical Rides”, geared towards professional and serious cyclists, (2) “Journey Rides”, which features cyclists lead classes with simulated travel through physical
What has been your greatest reward? The positive responses we’ve gotten from our following, people are excited! Just like us. What makes your business stand out? First, when have you ever seen black women open a spin studio in midtown Atlanta? Never! Second there is no boutique cycling studio like ours with 3 types of classes, live djs, and technology driven results! We are one of a kind.
What was has been your greatest fear? Failing, empty bikes and no traffic in the studio. What are your plans for expansion? Right now we are focused on perfecting the Vibe Ride movement at our Midtown location. Eventually we want to expand into other high traffic areas in the Metro Atlanta area and then the sky’s the limit!
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BUFF HER
House of Exfoliation, are the makers of unique exfoliating food facial scrubs, handcrafted from natural and organically grown fruits and veggies. Their motto is “Feed Your Freakin’ Face.” The co-founders, Cheryl, Stephanie and Regina, believe the exfoliating or buffing process should be gentle yet effective. To ensure that your skin
love their products, every ingredient is easily recognizable and natural with proven skin beautifying and exfoliating benefits. Also boasting a little something for him, the BIFF HIM “Hey Poppy” exfoliant, all BUFF HER products can be found at buffher.com.
Tell us the personal risk associated with launching a new business? Our personal risks when starting our business was the market conditions for new skin care products. The skin care business is very competitive.
which is exfoliation. It’s our favorite part of the facial so we wanted to just focus solely on that process. We love educating people on how food can also help your skin when applied topically.
What was has been your greatest fear or obstacle thus far? Our greatest obstacle in launching a new business was delegating responsibility. Once we communicated and figured that out everything fell into place.
What advice would give an aspiring entrepreneur? The advice we would give an aspiring entrepreneur is to be unique in your approach to starting a business. Take an old idea and put your spin on it, or create something that we’ve never seen before. Be different.
What has been your greatest reward thus far? Our greatest reward has been working together as sisters. It’s been very fun coming together and building our brand. We work very well together and are excited about this journey that God has blessed us with. What makes your business stand out? Our business stands out because we took the approach of only focusing on one part of the skin care regimen,
What are your plans for expansion? Our plans for expansion include our new line that just launched just for the fellas, Buff Him House of Exfoliation. We also now have new Buff Her Mini packs. There are some new goodies in the works to help feed your skin.
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LUX APPROVED
HONORING HUE is a collection of celebratory greeting cards that are historical, sustainable, and responsible. Marrying the past and the present, each card is organic in origin because the pictures and individuals are telling their own stories. It’s quite magical and yet so, simple.
Entrepreneur and philanthropist Kysha Cameron launched the customizable greeting card line whose title embodies breathing life into nostalgic moments for all people, in all walks of life. Honoring Hue’s content curators pay homage to all ethnic histories with responsible messages. Bridging the gap between the past and the current, each greeting card tells a story. Learn more at honoringhue.com.
Photo: Kelli Boyd
Tell us the personal risk associated with launching a new business? The risk are so countless that I try to focus on the opportunities. Having said that, the greatest risk were and still are financial and time commitment. What was has been your greatest fear or obstacle thus far? My biggest fear so far has also been my biggest inspiration—that is that I am new to this particular industry. There is much to learn but, I am reassured by faith and the fact that I came from an entrepreneurial family and have always been an entrepreneur in some regard. Fear and Faith are very close cousins so, I chose to stay focused on faith and its possibilities. What has been your greatest reward? My greatest reward is that I was open, receptive and responsive. At this point in my life, my kids are able to share this journey with me. I came out of corporate in 2004 so, they are now able to view me also as an entrepreneur. They encourage, motivate, and create with me not to mention donate their time and perspectives.
What advice would give an aspiring entrepreneur? This is a hard one because I don’t know that I would give one cookie cut answer to anyone. I do always share that there are so many incredible communities supporting new businesses. If you’ve got the vision, do the research and have faith. I am amazed that there are so many people with some many incredible ideas that are not moving on any of them. I recently told a friend “the next time you get an idea, please move on it.” She is full of incredible concepts. What are your plans for expansion? Currently, Honoring Hue is exclusively on-line and that was very important to me initially. I wanted to be able to monitor every stage of the product development and how the product was being received. 2015 will bring on some incredible retail partners.
What makes your business stand out? The intention. Honoring Hue offers a global eye. Nothing about this vision is intended to serve one group, one region or one culture or race. That and the fact, that along this journey I’ve learned of the story behind each picture. I am so moved that I decided to share a few lines about picture. Honoring Hue is already in the process of evolving as a curator of content and history.
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LUX MARKET WATCH
MARSALA
TAKES OVER!
Story by CLORISSA WRIGHT
IT’S OFFICIAL, the authorities have spoken! Orange may be the new black on your television screen but Marsala is all the chatter according to the experts at Pantone. Marsala, a beautiful terracotta, red-ish hue, has been named the official “it” shade of 2015. And if one expert opinion isn’t enough, the word from Macy’s VP and fashion director, Nicole Fishelis is, “We love this shade for mens and women’s ready to wear as well as the world of accessories; shoes, housewares, jewelry and more!” Macy’s has a great marsala inspired product selection— boasting everything from shoes and handbags to towels and mixers!
Martha Stewart Collection Collector’s Enameled Cast Iron 8 Qt. Oval Casserole, $219.99 Clarks Artisan Women’s Lida Palmer Shooties, $145.00
Trade in your traditional reds and paint the town marsala! Hotel Collection Bath Towels MicroCotton Collection, $12-$58
Lacoste Casual Pique Bathrobe, $95.00
KitchenAid KSB1575 Architect 5 Speed Blender, $219.99
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FIND YOUR INSPIRATION
I HATE MY JOB! Story by DIRK DURAN SMITH M.S., R.C.C. Professional Career Coach | Registered Corporate Coach
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s a professional career coach, I’ve coached thousands of working professionals over the last 15 years. We’ve discussed a plethora of nuances associated with having a career void of purpose or meaning. I’ve heard hundreds of concerns from a broad spectrum of workers that always seem to culminate with the same four words, “I hate my job!” If we absolutely must do this thing called “work,” it is imperative that we take thoughtful and introspective inventory of ourselves to help ensure our next career move allows us to make a more meaningful and insightful impact on our lives. The key, however, is the decision needs to be in total alignment with our values and more importantly, our inherent gifts. The work we choose should be performed on purpose and with a purpose. Regrettably, too many people move through their days engaging in numbing activities only to leave at the end of their work day physically, mentally, and/or emotionally exhausted. Now is the perfect time to reset and rejuvenate your work life. Embrace this New Year as an opportunity to think strategically about your life’s calling instead of the next job. Commit to exploring career options that are in alignment with who you are. Having joy in our work is not as complex as one might think. We struggle with our job/career happiness typically because of one major thing—we choose work that is out of alignment with our intrinsic gifts and that is why most all jobs feel like “work.” Getting in alignment takes thoughtful analysis and personal selfexamination of the inner you. By answering the following questions, you can move closer to realizing purpose driven work.
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What is your unfair competitive advantage? These are things that come easy to you and are considered your inherent gifts. The gifts
you possess may seem unfair to others because they have to work harder to do the same things that come so easily for you. What do you enjoy doing so much that you lose track of time? What would you do if money was not an option? Your unfair competitive advantage helps to abstractly define career possibilities and ultimately discover purpose driven work. - Ask yourself, “Who needs people like me based on my selfdiscovery?” Think about certain industries, companies, functions or entrepreneurial ventures. (E.g. - educational institutions, executive search firms, non-profit organizations, etc.)
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Using keys words consistent with your gifts, conduct an initial Google or LinkedIn search using search terms such as “careers in xxxx” or “xxxx jobs” to gather information about various possibilities where you can exercise your gifts.
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Search actual job postings using appropriate words that describe your gifts (E.g. - “youth mentor counseling training programs facilitator”). Oftentimes, an initial search provides possible job titles. Write them down then search for jobs or similar jobs using those titles or buzz words.
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Continue to expound upon the information more to learn more about additional possibilities. Finding your passion takes place when you are aware of your gifts. Explore the immense possibilities in a conscientious manner. Career management is quite complex and encompasses multiple layers. It requires lots of work and personal assessment of oneself. The information you uncover allows you to take the first steps to your own personal revolution to get the career that is only meant for you. All of us are born with gifts. Identify your gifts and how you will use them to impact the world as only you’ll be able to do? Determine what feels good to you and you’re on your way!
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NIECY’S world Story by CLORISSA WRIGHT
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f one person could have a successful television career, a solid reputation as one of America’s funniest divas, a bestselling novel and a budding film career all going on at the same time, they’d have to be something like a superhero.
Couple that with being a hands-on mother of three and a dreamy wife and you’ve got Emmy winning producer and actress Niecy Nash. The born and bred Californian stays true to herself in all that she does, whether it’s a cheerful role alongside a popular leading man or a more impactful role like her character in the upcoming film, Selma. ~ continued on page 23
Photography by ROBERT ECTOR Hair by ROBERTA GARDNER ROGERS Makeup by NAIMA JAMAL Wardrobe Styling by GOO GOO ATKINS
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“I am who I am, what you see on TV is what you will get in person. It’s that simple.”
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ASTERING her craft over a career spanning twenty years, she’s played well in front of the camera, behind the camera and in the boardroom as a decision maker. A jam-packed schedule will make 2015 one of her busiest years to date. With a presence on several networks, Niecy makes and hits her comedic, supporting and unforgettable marks as a bonafide actress. From reprising her role as a super-honest nurse Didi Ortley on Season 2 of the HBO hit show Getting On, to recurring appearances on Fox’s The Mindy Project as Dr. Jean Fishman and feisty wife Lolli Ballentine on TV Land’s Soul Man (entering it’s fourth season), her career trajectory keeps diversifying. Playing a critical part in Ava DuVernay’s epic civil rights movie, Selma, which hit the big screen on December 25th, Nash taps into her serious side as she takes on the role of the late Richie Jean Jackson. At the pinnacle of the civil rights movement, Jackson’s home (with her husband Dr. Sullivan Jackson) served as headquarters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a safehaven for other activists during the 1965 voting rights campaign. Needless to say, this role is one that she is grateful to have been hand-selected for. Always looking to be challenged, she is on a constantly evolving mission to show fans, peers and her family that she won’t stop. On another spectrum, she’s also working on continuous projects with the Ford Motor Corporation. ON LOVE . . . “Love is the one thing that we were created for, yet it is the place where we struggle the most.” While not claiming to be an expert on relationships and matters of the heart, her book, “It’s Hard To Fight Naked” is an in-your-face reality check for women in all walks of their love lives. Noting that she has played every position possible in relationships: wife, exwife, girlfriend, chick on the side and baby-momma, Nash gives transparent accounts of her experiences. Because it comes natural to her, encouraging love and elevating positive relationships is something that in another lifetime, she’d do for free. “It’s Hard To Fight Naked” embodies the philosophy that when you are naked it is hard to fight anything or anyone, literally and figuratively. When you are naked, figuratively you are vulnerable, exposed and telling your truth from a pure place. In the literal sense when a conversation gets too heated she suggests, “...removing your shirt and applying lotion to your elbows”—as nakedness changes the dynamic of most any situation. The best-seller carries Niecy’s expected humorous spin. There are
valuable take-aways, much like the golden nuggets and eureka moments from a sister-to-sister conversation. HER BALANCING ACT . . . Her children Dia, Donielle, Dominic and Romallis are the apples of her eyes. With the world in crisis, she feels that the parents’ job has increased and spends a lot of time talking with her children about real-world occurrences. Motherhood is about more than just hearing about mean girls at school or checking for fevers. Every single child requires something different, thus she customizes her mothering style. And for those who know, her kids are not to be confused with spoiled, typical Hollywood children. She and her husband Jay simply keep them grounded by telling them one simple word, no. She doesn’t give them everything but will equip them to gain everything. She’s proud to be raising her children to be who they’ll be once they’ve left the warmth of her wings. Her marriage to Jay Tucker (her second husband) has been her answer to the meaning of a love worthy of waiting for. Her voice smiles as she explains that she’d go through all of her failed relationships, broken bonds and heartbreak all over again, as long as it led her to him in the end. Her love for people reaches outside the home as she has teamed up with The Juice Foundation to fight cancer and promote healthy lifestyles. Founded by NBA star Juwan Howard’s wife Jenine, the organization holds an annual Fashion For A Cause show in which Miami Heat players and child models participate. Having lost an aunt to the disease, she holds this mission close to her heart. Can you have it all? Niecy says yes! When you have a lot on your plate, inevitably something is going to fall through the cracks, you’ve just got to make sure it’s not the same thing repeatedly. She’s ok with not being the master of all things but finds that the trick is communicating and understanding. Feeling braver and sexier than ever, she gives thanks for her stylist Thomasina “Goo Goo” Atkins for inviting her to try new avenues in fashion. While embracing her career, she looks forward to new projects, opportunities to make an impact, personal growth and continuing to live her wildest dreams. For more information on all things Niecy, visit: niecynash.com and follow her socially at @NiecyNash on twitter and @NiecyNash1 on Instagram. Photo: Kat Goduco
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FASHION BOSWELL perforated PROTECTION mask. - $150.00 waraireboswell.com
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FASHION IN THE KEY OF LIFESTYLE Designed and Styled by WARAIRE BOSWELL
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FASHION WARAIRE BOSWELL - custom waraireboswell.com
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FASHION WARAIRE JEWELS EVENING BOSWELL - custom Face: flawless foundation #3, Matte finishing waraireboswell.com loose power Eyes: pigments - twilight and violet shadow, silver lining Cheeks: alabaster Lips: ruby
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FASHION The Apostle Shirt - $125.00 waraireboswell.com
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STYLE
WARAIRE BOSWELL DESIGN RHYTHMS Story by NICKI SALCEDO
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pardon my excitement during the creative process. As the creator, I see the completed vision, where many clients only see swatches. I see the destination, while others just see fog.” He has been influenced by legendary designers Ralph Lauren, Alexander Wang, Kelly Wearstler, Tom Ford and Paul Smith. At the same time Boswell finds inspiration from casual brands like Supreme, Nike or Adidas. His creations are classic and edgy, timeless and distinctly modern. Future collaborations are always a possibility for the designer who recently teamed with Lexus to unveil a special collection inspired by the Lexus RC F performance coupe. Currently Boswell is working on the expansion of the brand and the launch of Boswell RTW with his partner and company COO, Dr. Taj Eldridge. With designs originally intended for men 6’2” and taller, Boswell now creates for a variety of notable athletes, celebrities and even women. As expected with any true artist, he finds inspiration everywhere—music, visuals, emotions, scenery. Since taking the leap to become a designer, he has noticed his own personal evolution. “I am a chameleon, resilient, and electrifying,” Boswells says. His work is beautiful and a conduit for creative and social change.
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Photo: RobinLori Photography
any artists claim that they had their talent from birth. Some were born to sing or write or be an athlete. For Waraire Boswell, his talent, while unlikely was to grow physically and creatively.
Although at the pinnacle of his physical height, the man and the brand are still growing. In upcoming years fashion forward consumers might find his designs in open air markets from Pasadena to New York to Paris.
Becoming a high-end fashion designer usually involves overcoming many obstacles, but Boswell doesn’t see it that way. There was a gap in the fashion landscape and The 6’7” fashion designer grew seven and a half inches Waraire Boswell set out to fill it. His designs are not just one summer and continued to grow well past puberty, until apparel, but visual presentations. His suits are like portraits he was 29 years old. His exceptional height didn’t feel like of the unique men who wear them. a blessing during his childhood and through his transition to adulthood and professional life. Finding clothing that The man behind the designs might be a chameleon, but actually fit was a challenge, but not one that would stop the quality of his clothing remains a constant. He’s found him. a unique design rhythm and designs to the beat of his own drum. In his words, fashion is the gatekeeper, the “Instead of complaining about the lack of options, I conversation starter. created my own.” Boswell captures the essence of the WB gentleman with The birth of this fashion designer’s career rose from a new pieces added to the 2015 line. They are monolithic, combination of faith and clear career signals to create simple and easily interchangeable with high, mid and low custom menswear. price points. His first experience designing a suit for another person gave him a sense of completion. “I often tell clients to
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Visit: waraireboswell.com to view the entire brand including the classic RTW and WB lines.
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CULTURE
KARLA FERGUSON The Rebel With a Cause
Story by FAITH CARMICHAEL
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arla Ferguson can’t pinpoint where and when she developed her rebellious streak. “It was just always there,” she says.
As a child, her mother nicknamed her Kilimanjaro after the tallest mountain in Africa. “I was tiny, but stubborn,” she explains, “and my mother always said I would do anything I set my mind to.”
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“I became very aware that I was being placed in a category,” she said. “They wanted blacks to be with blacks, whites to be whites, the sexism was sharp, men with men. I never respected any of those rules.“ While at Tulane she began to volunteer at the Innocence Project, a non-profit that identifies and remedies wrongful conviction cases through the use of DNA.
Today, the still diminutive art director has emerged high atop the Miami art scene with the transformation of her Yeelen Gallery in Miami’s once-forgotten “Little Haiti” neighborhood into an international sensation showcasing art that powerfully humanizes the black experience.
The group’s fight against injustice appealed to her and for years, she advocated tirelessly on behalf of men and boys wrongfully imprisoned.
But for Ferguson, what may appear to be an “overnight” success has been anything but.
She credits her artistic Jamaican family with her early interest in the arts—a father who was a musician, a mother who acted and uncles who dabbled in painting and architecture.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, she spent her early years in a crime-ridden corner of the city where the warm air was often punctuated by the sound of machine gun fire. At six years old, her parents emigrated to the United States and she was left to take care of her younger sister while they waited for their visas to be finalized. “At a very young age, I had to grow up fast,“ she recalls. This resiliency would serve her well once she joined her family in the United States, facing a stark racism she’d never experienced in her home country where “everyone was brown like me.” The family would eventually move to Miami, to an equally tough neighborhood just north of the city. At her high school, where metal detectors and student melees were commonplace, teachers counseled her to be sensible and head for community college.
Yet through it all she nurtured an unfailing love for art.
Then one summer, while still in Law School, she traveled to France and met her husband, esteemed visual artist Jerome Soimaud. Upon their return from France, they joined forces and opened up Yeelen Gallery in Wynwood Art District of Miami in 2008. This exhibition space was dedicated to counteracting the negative stereotypes that exist for people of color. “I think art is a more powerful tool if we use it as propaganda in a positive way,” she says. “We can change people’s minds and perceptions by showing them the other side, our shared humanity—and not just what we see in the media.”
Instead, she boldly announced her intention to pursue an undergraduate and then eventually a law degree. One of her teacher challenged her “nerve” branding her “a rebel without a cause.”
Yeelen quickly gained popularity amidst the more mainstream galleries in Wynwood. Yet in 2012, the rebellious streak struck again and Ferguson and Soimaud decided to move their gallery to economically-challenged area of “Little Haiti.”
“I just laughed,” remembers Ferguson, “and told her that I’d better get around to finding a cause.”
“Everyone said do not do it!” she remembers with a laugh, “That’s the hood!”
And that she did.
Yet propelled by that same Kilimanjaro spirit, the couple relocated their gallery to a 10,000 square foot space in what was then a sea of industrial warehouses and abandoned storefronts. In so doing, they became pioneers, both anchoring and ushering in an incredible renaissance in that community.
Her first step was Florida International University where she studied international affairs and political science. Then onto the Law School at Tulane University, where she officially, as she puts it, “discovered the South.”
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Today, Little Haiti has been transformed into a bustling neighborhood and artistic hub of various ethnicities and cultures. It has become a destination of choice for the throngs of art enthusiasts that flock to Miami every year for the art sensation that is Art Basel Miami. The gallery’s Art Basel show “Fade to Black” is a celebration of contemporary black art and its most important and emerging artists and is arguably the hottest ticket of the four-day art event The New York Times called it a “mustsee” event. On the last day of Art Basel Miami 2014, Ferguson and the rest of the city awoke to an image of herself splashed across the front page of the Miami Herald. In the image, she is standing in all her glory, overseeing the art she has worked tirelessly to curate and help bring to the fore. Later that same day, more than 1200 artists and art enthusiasts converged on Yeleen gallery to drink in the work of the second annual Fade to Black exhibit. They came from all over the world, in every hue and color. They danced till three in the morning. And even then, no one wanted to go home. So they set up tables in the gallery’s main space and talked about art, imagery and social change until the sun came up. Today the mother of two is clear about her role in that space where art meets social change. “It’s what I tell my children—our only job is to make this world a better place than how we found it. Today between Ferguson and the Gardener case, people are looking for answers. Why in 2014, are we still second class citizens in this country?” she asks rhetorically. Then adds, “more than ever it’s critical that we continue to do this work—to provide a powerful reminder that not just black lives matter, but all lives matter, including ours.” The rebel has found her cause.
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COMMUNITY
es en-tip bility, &
e and ing en-tip bility, &
Story by CLORISSA WRIGHT
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he Arthur Wylie brand is one of the country’s fastest growing entrepreneurial empires
The enterprise namesake started a wealth management organization during Arthur Wylie’s college years—out of his dorm room. He worked hard and catapulted himself to millionaire status by the age of 26. Arthur Wylie is the CEO of Arthur Wylie Enterprises (AWE) which has overseen $500 million in assets, transactions, insurance, intellectual properties and real estate acquisitions. With a multi-dimensional portfolio, AWE’s current projects include: producing and financing film/TV projects, philanthropy, motivational speaking, celebrity events, book publishing and international real estate ventures. Believing that there is an epidemic of absent mentors plaguing real-life leadership training, Arthur set out to uplift the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs through valuable, hands-on application from the Arthur Wylie Foundation (AFW). “I’ve been gifted with the spirit of entrepreneurship and I love what I do. I’d love to show people the real-life business, behind the glamour.” Through Wylie’s vision the foundation sets out to provide scholarships to students who have an expressed interest in entrepreneurship, business, applied sciences or the arts. Once selected, students receive mentorship and internships with high level executives for a hands-on, applicable, business experience. While enrolled, the organization provides entrepreneurship based curriculum that helps students with real-life application techniques via project case studies and time spent with other proven world class leaders. Taking a “from the top down” approach, AWF mentorships start atop the career ladder versus the traditional “mailroom” starting point perspective.
Not faulting the normal way of doing things, AWF case studies have shown greater retention of information and success when students are engaged at a high level from the start. The layered training experience also includes information on how to handle stress, institute damage control when they’ve made mistakes and how to pay it forward. For consideration, each student must be accepted to an accredited educational institution, submit an application packet that can be downloaded from the foundations site, in addition to professional references and a completed business plan exercise. Wylie Initiative for the Study of Entrepreneurship (W.I.S.E.), is a continuing education program within the AWF that takes future leaders through the founders book, “Only the Crazy and Fearless Win Big.” While increasing the pool of qualified leaders in the US, the AWF will launch the “Empower Jamaica: 10,000 books inspire future Jamaican entrepreneurs” campaign in 2015. With this initiative, Wylie hopes to educate a different demographic and make positive impact on entrepreneurship in low income countries. “We don’t need to just empower our country, we need to think globally! Nurturing these future entrepreneurs will result in job creation for the small business sector thus turning them into innovators and leaders versus workers.” Students who wish to apply for internships and organizations wishing to become involved with volunteering, fundraising or making donations may do so online by visiting: aw-foundation.org.
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The Crystal Ball Foundation
“Enhancing the lives of students through mentorship, leadership and scholarship is our mission.” ~ Edward T. Robinson-Carroll, Co-Founder
JOIN THE CRYSTAL BALL FOUNDATION FOR THE 2015 ANNUAL CRYSTAL BALL SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2015 HILTON ATLANTA AIRPORT Visit crystalballfoundation.com for more information. URBANLUX
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LUX AUTO
A glimpse into the future! Story & photos by DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON
D
The 2015 Acura TLX
The 2015 Audi R8 V10 plus
The 2015 BMW 650i Convertible
The 2015 Ford Mustang
oing whatever we can to keep you, our cherished readers, in the know regarding the hottest wheels to hit the street, we roughed it out and headed to South Florida for the 44th Annual Miami International Auto Show. We were blown away by the continued advancements and trends for using electricity, safety enhancements, competitive pricing, and one of our favorite categories—exterior and interior design.
There was also the annual Topless In Miami convertible section, Camp Jeep’s driving course, and the baller’s heaven, the Million Dollar Alley featuring some of the world’s most lavish automobiles including the $1.7-million Pagani. The newest addition, “Cars Meet Art” display, surely didn’t disappoint. It is going to be a good 2015 behind the wheel.
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The 2015 Lexus NX 200t F Sport
The 2015 Maserati GrandTurismo MC Convertible
The $1.7 Pagani
The 2015 McClaren 650S URBANLUX
The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
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LUX DESTINATIONS
JAMAICA A LUX GETAWAY Story by NINA PARKER
I WENT TO JAMAICA TO GET MY GROOVE BACK! I had an opportunity to go to Montego Bay for business. The great thing was that I’d have a few days to myself and being the workaholic that I am, I jumped at the opportunity to mix business with a little—or a lot—of pleasure. I read a ton of articles and planned on doing everything from zip lining to hiking to jumping off a cliff into that beautiful blue water I’ve seen on so many screensavers. It was time to reenact my version of Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray, Love! When I landed in the Montego Bay airport, the first thing the shuttle driver said to me was, “You need to relax.” The look of confusion on my face must have been hilarious because he laughed hard and said, “You can’t take things too seriously Mon. It’s just life.” What I learned quickly, is that things move slower in Jamaica. The fast paced environment I was accustomed to in Los Angeles was a distant memory. I found out exactly what “Jamaica Time” was, and I liked it. No one was checking their watches or having meaningless small talk. I looked around and saw people on the streets of the tropical paradise laughing, eating, dancing, or just plain sitting. Everything seemed to have a purpose. While I recognized that there was purpose in sitting still, in that moment, I wasn’t mentally able to relate. I’d gotten used to making every minute count while working 14 hour days, so needless to say, sitting still seemed like a waste of time. But there I was, watching people enjoy the life they were given. Regardless of their (obvious) struggles and despite their circumstances, I saw pure joy enveloping them. This was my initial “AH-HA!” moment that Oprah talks about so often. I decided to jump on Jamaica time and immerse myself in the city spirit.
Lucky for me, I’d be staying at the IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Suites, a five-star, all Inclusive luxury hotel. As I walked into the gorgeous lobby, I was greeted by an excited clerk who informed me that my room was customized to meet my needs. Next, a personal butler was assigned to me and could provide me with everything from room service, to the latest movie, to even running a hot bath in my personal jacuzzi. Really, what more could a traveler ask for? I’ll tell you... The beachfront resort boasts spacious rooms with breathtaking sea views, a ton of land and sea recreational activities, relaxing ocean space and a constant breeze. The wait staff delivers drinks on demand, and this comes included with every hotel stay. And when you get hungry, the hotel offers the best cuisines to please any palate including two buffets, an à la carte restaurant and a variety of on site eateries with different international themes. I found the key to relaxation or getting one’s groove back is to not have a set plan. IBEROSTAR Rose Hall envelops you and YOU choose what is best suited for you while there. Next time you take a vacation, be sure to make lasting memories. Visit iberostar.com and get your groove back!
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LUX ESSENTIALS
REVOLT AGAINST THE OLD YOU
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Story by STEVEN SUMMERSILL, CSCS
his is the time of year when everyone with a sedentary lifestyle looks at themselves in the mirror and decides it is time to do something about the way they look. They lament with comments like “I need to get rid of this gut!” or “I need to lose the flab under my arms!”
Start working out with a friend for inspiration or find a professional trainer. It is easier for us to fall off the wagon when you don’t have anyone to hold you accountable. That’s why I recommend starting out with a trainer. He or she will definitely hold you accountable, after all, it’s part of their job.
They usually start off strong but typically one to three months later, they give up. Why is that? Well, there are quite a few reasons.
If the paradigm of a trainer/client relationship is true, you definitely won’t want to let him or her down. Show them, and yourself, just how committed you are to the new you. They will be prepared to teach you, so prepare to learn. Allow them to help you feel comfortable in the gym. You’ll surely build confidence and know-how when you work out alone.
You hear this time and time again but it is so important—set obtainable goals. It is okay to push yourself, but don’t constantly disappoint yourself by saying you’re going to do things you know you’re not going to do. Being fit and healthy doesn’t mean you have to aim for a six-pack. You need to know that getting and maintaining a six pack comes with sacrifices that you’re going to have to live with FOREVER. Instead, set weekly realistic goals then change and increase them as you achieve each one. Don’t let the cold weather slow you down as the year moves along. Unless you live in Miami or Los Angeles, you’re going to have to deal with some weather changes that might affect you going to the gym and working out. Don’t let the cold have you running for a couch instead of a fitness class. Bear the cold, it won’t last as long as a saggy belly. Summer bodies are made in the winter anyway!
Lastly, do not get discouraged. I can’t say this enough! This is not going to be an easy journey, but you’re worth the struggle. The New Year is not meant for you to start a change, it’s your time to reflect on the past year. Don’t just talk about change, be about it! I guarantee that the people who stick with it, feel better and look better. I’m sure you know some of these people, go ahead and ask them if it’s true. Revolt against the old you, and create a new, more refined you in this New Year.
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PULSE
OUTSIDE THE BOX
Story by DR. RONDRICK WILLIAMSON
THINKING
outside the box is a metaphor that means to In some cases, patients get frustrated with the restricted approach think differently, unconventionally, or from a new perspective. One of traditional medicine. For some, surgery or pharmaceuticals are options they don’t select. Instead, they rely on the holistic medicine can venture to say that it also means going against the grain. approach. Holistic and traditional methods differ in terms of The slogan has become very cliché as individuals look past the philosophy, treatment options and diagnostic techniques. Holistic obvious to see what lies beyond. What if we applied this philosophy practice looks at illnesses or injury within the context of environment, social, and personal circumstance. The burden of responsibility is to our health? placed on the patient as holistic medicine considers how individuals As a society, we have become accustomed to reaching for a contribute to or hinder their own health through individual beliefs pill bottle every time we experience the tiniest ache or pain. and lifestyle choices. Traditional Western medicine has become the norm. We as physicians match an array of symptoms to a known paradigm of diseases and dysfunctions. The paradigm also involves using advanced diagnostic tools to help determine not only the cause, but the actual progression of a disease entity.
Prescribing medications for treatment which most likely is administered by the patient independently is often the standard of care. Is a pill really necessary for every ailment? In today’s culture, antibiotic resistance has become one of the world’s most pressing public health problems according to the Center for Disease Control. Could this have been avoided by physicians refusing to over prescribe such medications? The question could be raised as to how often we encourage patients to make simple lifestyle changes to work cohesively with appropriate amounts of treatment or medication. Are there other options for the patient besides prescription medications? The alternative would be a holistic approach to medicine.
Typical treatment recommendations include dietary changes, meditation exercises like Yoga and Tai Chi, herbs, massage and even acupuncture. As a practicing physician, I strongly believe in what I do. However, I am aware that society does recognize other viable options to enhance health. By no means am I discounting the efficacy of traditional medicine—my purpose is to expand people’s way of thinking. A place exists for both approaches to medicine. The holistic approach is an option available to those who seek alternatives to prescription medication and surgery. While the majority of individuals will seek the care of controlled Western medicine, others will consider less monitored avenues. No matter where you stand, the benefits are endless when you take an active role in your overall health.
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LUX LOVE
Dia Simms Mastermind, Mogul & Wife Story by LAMAR DIXON
Photo: Jack Manning of Jaxonphotogroup
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n 2014, the vertical integration of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ various endeavors is quite remarkable.Without even a thought you could be living the Bad Boy lifestyle by wearing the brand’s clothes and fragrances, listening to the music in the background, watch a plethora television programs and films, while sipping new-age spirits, then hydrate with the empire’s bottled water the next day.
As one of the heads of Combs’ foray in the world of marketing and advertising, uber executive Dia Simms is charged with the strategic execution of Diddy’s various businesses. Her days are spent overseeing Ciroc, Sean Jean Clothing and fragrances as well as Blue Flame Agency clients. Under her leadership, since 2009, Ciroc went from 40,000 cases sold annually to over 2 million, with celebrities like Rick Ross and Grey’s Anatomy’s Jesse Williams singing high praises.
Drawing inspiration from the book, The Other Wes Moore, (which tells the true story of two young men from the same city with very different paths in life) Dia offers insight into the philosophy which has guided her from the early days of Madison to moving up the ranks at Blue Flame. “What really inspired me [about the book] is the message that anything is possible. You don’t only have the path of a downward existence or a prison sentence, you can also become a Rhodes Scholar. It’s a wonderful message for children, but at any age you can make a difference and change your direction.”
“For everything that we do at Combs’ Enterprises, we have the mantra that it has to be product first,” proclaims Dia of the philosophy that drives her and her boss,. “At no time will we ask anyone to try, wear, taste or smell like something we’re putting out if it isn’t dope.”
Having conquered the world of vodka with the popular Ciroc brand, Simms is now leading Combs’ Enterprises charge into tequila with the introduction of DeLeon. Positioning this as a direct competitor to Patron in the luxury tequila space—some of DeLeon’s ads take some not so veiled shots at the other popular tequila. If this venture is like many others she’s worked on, there’s only a matter of time before While the numbers don’t lie regarding Ciroc’s success, she says it DeLeon dominates store and luxury home spirit shelves. pales in comparison to what she feels is her greatest achievement— Dia comfortably transitions from family mode back into professional motherhood. “My husband and I have had such wonderful experiences marketing mode when discussing the future of the brand and her in life, and you can begin to pat yourself on the back a little bit, but voice rises with excitement. “When we had the opportunity to see [they are] really so insignificant compared to the fact that we created and taste it, we were blown away and fell in love with it. There’s a real person walking around with organs and can walk and talk,” she something about this tequila which is kick-ass and provocative.” exclaims with laughter. “There’s nothing that comes close to having a wonderful family. And I think that’s the reason why we work so ON SUCCESS STARTING EARLY . . . hard, to enjoy those special moments with them.” “I totally realized that what you do in third grade will make a Holding positions at the Department of Defense, radio and difference with what happens in fifth grade and twelfth grade and pharmaceutical sales before joining Combs and his companies ultimately throughout your life. You’re building a monument of your in 2005, Simms’ first stab at the world of marketing was actually reputation, so make sure you make the right selection in how you running her own outfit. “We had a company called Madison out of brand yourself.” DC,” she reminisces. “We promoted a lot of events and brought on local clients and some national brands like Nabisco and Seagram’s. Whether it’s motherhood, being a wife or marketing executive, Simms We were a small team and we got those clients by outworking some realizes that no matter the challenge, her aim is always quality. She’s of the bigger guys.” Very proud of her pre-Diddy accomplishments, earned the title with and the respect of one of the country’s most she chuckles fondly about memories when she was the underdog. notorious bosses—Dia Simms is an unstoppable force. URBANLUX
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ECONOMY
TURN YOUR PASSION INTO PROFIT Story by CLYDE ANDERSON
The key is to leverage your ideas, knowledge, expertise and God given gift. Get started by following these simple tips: Do your research and identify a skill or expertise that you already have and build your online business around that. It can be a service or an information product (ebooks, audios, webinars, etc.). The expense can be extremely low and it’s not difficult to do. So do the research and be sure that your product or service is solving a problem or filling a need.
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ouldn’t it be great to have “more money than month”, pay bills when they’re due, save and still be able to have disposable income to get yourself something nice? You may have had the answer all along like Dorothy. But instead of clicking your ruby red slippers together, you may just need to click your mouse a few times. There are many people creating new streams of income and making millions on the internet, but the magic is not just in the medium, which is, for example, the Internet. It’s in the successful partnership between the marketer and the medium. There are a multitude of ways to earn income online, the key is to find one that works for you, your goals and your business. There are a few fundamentals that I’ve learned along the way that I believe can assist you in avoid making some of the same mistakes I did. These simple fundamentals will work day after day and year after year. There is no such thing as getting rich quick, so avoid that like the plague. Understand that the cliché “No risk no reward” is often true, but also know that wrong risk can leave you broke. No matter if you’re looking to be the next internet giant like “google”, or just earn some side cash to fill the financial gaps, using the internet to market and sell your product or service may be the answer.
Be passionate about it. Take something you’re already good at and build a business around it. It might be hard to find others interested in what you care so much about, but with over two billion people online, the odds are you can eventually find your market. Follow a blueprint. If it isn’t broke, don’t try to fix it. There’s nothing new under the sun, so why attempt to make it more difficult than it needs to be? If it’s worked once, the odds are it will probably work again. You may just need to refine it a tad to fit for your venture, but it can save lots of time if you use a script. Invest Time. Anything worth having is going to take work to acquire. Sure the internet is a way to generate income but it still takes work to make it work for you. The medium opens you to customers across the globe but you must have a plan and a strategy that takes time to build and see the benefits. Some may hit the success mark a little sooner but if you don’t hit it out the gate, you must still be prepared to nurture your new venture to success. Be patient with the process. Whenever you’re building something significant, it takes time. Respect the process and don’t stop doing the work. Persistence wins games, so you have to remember that just because it’s slow or feels difficult you must stay the course. Once we realize the internet is for more than playing games or connecting socially, we’ll be able to tap into the opportunity that’s available to us all—access to capital using technology. Don’t miss it! For more information visit Clyde Anderson, Financial Life Mentor, at clydeandersononline.com.
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