DECEMBER ISSUE - 2010

Gemini December 2010

Chenese Lewis On Mind, Body, & Soul

Holiday Gift Guide Your Best Bets For 2010

Preserve Your Curves Get Fit For You (Not The New Year)

GEMINI Publisher Sommer Johnson

Editor-In-Chief Latima Johnson

Creative Director Qiana Smith

Marketing/PR Tamara Walker

Contributors

On The Cover

Darren Chester, Qiwi Red, Tara Brown, Fili McMillan-Antwine

Model

Chenese Lewis

Photographer Inez Lewis

Make Up Artist

Keesh Winkler-Smith

Hair Stylist Jo Williams

Correction for Christina Neault article Christina is the Executive Producer of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and attended Fashion Institute of Technology

Gemini Magazine, LLC Atlanta, GA www.thegeminimag.com (c) Copywritten by Gemini Magazine, LLC 2010 All rights reserved Are you interested in becoming a part of the Gemini team?

We are currently taking applications for Spring 2011 Semester interns. For more information, please visit www.thegeminimag.com.

Celebrate your business! Allow Gemini to play an important part in marketing your company. For more information please visit www.thegeminimag.com

editor “Rocking What You’ve Got” That’s the title of a book written by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and television personality Maria Shriver’s 20 year old daughter Katherine. The title of the book ties in well with this our last issue of 2010- THE SHAPE ISSUE. Whether you are an apple, a pear, an hourglass or a rectangle, knowing how to rock what you’ve got is the key to a confident and comfortable you.

By the time you read this issue you will probably be elbow deep in all of your holiday festivities.

If you are hosting any holiday gatherings be sure to check out page 20 to see how some famous moms celebrate the holidays stress free and pick up some great recipes to try at home.

Speaking of entertaining, no holiday party would be complete without that perfect outfit.

Starting on page 7 we pay homage to the original hostess with the mostess-June Cleaver in our Mad Men meets Leave it to Beaver editorial spread.

We hope that you enjoy your holiday season and remember the true meaning of the holidays.

It’s not about how much money you spend on gifts but instead how you make your guests feel when they visit your home.

Peace and Blessings

Latima

quick beauty tip

One Drop Changes Everything.

Why Fragrance is the Perfect Holiday Gift New York NY November 15th, 2010. There are a million reasons why fragrance should be at the top of everyone’s gift list this holiday season,” says Rochelle Bloom, President of The Fragrance Foundation, “from the quirky to the classic, there’s a perfect perfume pick for everyone on the holiday list.” Out of the million reasons, here’s the top ten from The Fragrance Foundation: 1. One drop of fragrance changes everything. The right fragrance can make you feel like a million dollars, six feet taller, a whole lot sexier, sassier and confident.

2.

Fragrance is an affordable luxury. Creative geniuses pour their heart and soul into gorgeously designed bottles of exquisitely blended scents that should cost untold fortunes. Yet these precious liquids make luxurious gifts at price points for every budget.

3.

It’s a personal signature. Even if you purchase the most popular fragrance of all time, worn by millions of women, the scent on your skin will develop its very own, very unique characteristic.

It will never, ever be repeated.

4. Fragrance is a major mood enhancer.

Scientific research has shown that fragrance has the added benefit of elevating your mood and reducing stress..a definite bonus at this hectic time of the year!

5. It’s an affordable fashion accessory if you love those hot, but out-of-reach designer labels.

Rest assured that when a designer puts their name to a bottle of fragrance, they are expressing their true style signature in its most affordable manner.

Each and every designer is passionate about each and every facet of the bottle, the perfume, the packaging that bears their name. With their fragrance, you get the vibe without the price tag.

6. Fragrance comes in an infinite variety of forms. There’s something for everyone on your list.

A silky, cleansing shower gel. A French-milled soap.

Soothing, calming bath oil. A velvety, sensual body cream or a lightly moisturizing all-over skin lotion.

So many ways to layer on fragrance for a longlasting effect.

7. A collector’s choice. Perfume bottles are works of art in their own right. Display them, admire them, and enjoy the feminine touch they add to your daily life.

8. Fragrance as cherished memory. It can evoke memories of time and place. A mother’s goodnight kiss. A first romance. A walk in the rain forest. The bridal bouquet.

9. Fragrance is delicious. A delicious blend, a magic mix, a dash of this and a drop of that. An astounding variety of flowers, herbs, spices, fruits found near to hand and the four corners of the globe.

10. One drop of fragrance can change everything.

There are 900,990.00 other reasons to love fragrance.

Just not enough space on this page to mention them all.

health

Preserve Your Curves

And Your Sanity In A Thin Obsessed World

January is right around the corner

pills…the list goes on and on…but

and you know what that means. Yes.

there are far and few between that

In the next couple of weeks, weight

actually tell you how gorgeous you

loss and gym commercials will be

are as you are. There are very few

shoved down your throat, and at the

that actually help you to feel good

end of it all (even if you are happy

about being you while helping you

with your size) you will end up

to create a healthier lifestyle. We

sipping a shake or popping a pill or

sat down and had a quick chat

paying for a gym membership that

with the owner and founder of

you didn’t want in the first place.

Preserve Your Curves,

Soon January will come and go,

Tondaylaya Myrick to get a little

giving way to spring, and you will be

more insight on becoming a

hit with it all over again: “Summer’s

healthier version of ourselves.

almost here! Drop 60lbs by Memorial Day!” Suddenly you find yourself

Preserve Your Curves mission is to

trying to drink the same nasty shake

promote the physical, mental and

or actually attempt to go to that class

emotional health and wellness for

with all the skinny people huffing and

women for women. Founded in 2009

puffing (and trying not to stare at

by Tondaylaya Myrick who wanted to

you) to drop a few. What would

share her weight loss success with other

happen if we put our foot down (no,

women as well as motivate them to make

seriously, hear us out)? What would

positive changes in their physical fitness

happen if we first stopped living in a

regimen.

dream world and thinking that we will drop 100 pounds in 5 weeks, and then

" I've always stressed a healthier lifestyle

really take our health a little more

even when I started Club Cushions LLC

seriously (it is about more than just

in 2006. Here it was 2009, I had allowed

what the scale says afterall)?

myself to balloon to almost 300 lbs. I was embarrassed and getting sick! So at that

There are a million and one weight

moment I decided to take control of my

loss blogs, talk radio shows, books, tv

life. I changed my mind set, no more diets

shows, journals, websites, drinks,

just a healthier lifestyle change! The end

results 50+ lb loss! So I started Preserve Your Curves summer of 09 for women like me! Women who struggle with dieting or get bored very easy."

The PYC blog is a resource for women seeking motivation and inspiration toward the health and wellness needs.

PYC also has monthly competitions to encourage healthy weight loss goals such as the current GET IN YOUR JEANS challenge. Every 60 days a new challenge is created to give women an opportunity to be rewarded for meeting their goals. At

Preserve Your Curves our missions is clear but we would like women to " Define your curves, don't let your curves define you" Tondalaya www.Pycfit.com For one week only offering Gemini Mag readers discount on PYC T-shirt $12 presale orders only Free Shipping! Please allow 10 days from close date of promotions!

Code: GeminiPYC

Be a part of something spectacular...

Join PYC today and get back to you.

Road To Peachtree

The Syndrome

to the middle of the race we need a rest—all the while those slow little turtles and their hefty shells come waddling past. I found myself in that place very recently (like this morning). I had to slap myself this morning because I kept flipping through my planner---which I, um, marked down all of my training days from now until July 4th. I know! I’m a hare!

I mean, ok, so I have all of my training scheduled out from now until July 4th and ok, so it took me like 3 hours to actually get it just right in my $4 Wal-Mart planner—but isn’t that what I’m supposed to do? How can I possibly perform and be prepared if I do not make the proper preparations (yea, answer that! knowit-alls)?

But I suppose it is that over planning and intensity that keeps “Many of you ladies and gents will fall into what I like to

me from seeing things like this to the end. I keep trying to fix

call the ‘Tortoise and the Hare’ syndrome,” the group

my diet and concentrate on my routine at the same time, and

leader of Beginners Runners Anonymous said nodding

honestly that’s just dumb. Like that’s ‘stamp a donkey’s ass on

making her permed cloud of bottle blonde hair move on a 5

my forehead’ dumb. Know how come I know that? Because the

second delay . Nancy kind of reminds you of one of those

minute I start trying to make conscious nutrition choices I feel

women who wear tapered leg jeans, Keds, and sweaters

myself slipping out of control—yet I’m in a rush to do it!

with those ridiculous Christmas ornaments. “You move much faster and don’t pace yourselves in the beginning. By

I think in order for this thing to work out the way it’s supposed

the end, you are just plum tuckered out. It is easy to go into

to, I have to take it one step at a time. I have to slow down,

that overload mode. We feel that gosh darn it, we are

strap on my shell, and waddle my way through the steps until I

working out to build up our endurance so what’s the harm

come out at the finish line. I must become one with the tortoise

in trying to eat properly too. Now,” her mom ‘I mean

(ommmmmm) and drop that flea and tick ridden hare like a bad

business’ look covers the room and we all shift in our

habit.

chairs, “that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take our diets more seriously. But if we take off outta the gate at full speed

The Runner

we’ll be takin’ a nap in the final lap.”

A lot of us get caught up in the whole ‘Tortoise and the Hare’ syndrome. Most of us start out as hares and by the time we get

To follow The Runner's journey visit www.road2peachtree.blogspot.com

fashion

Barbara Billingsley's character June Cleaver was the epitome of the American Housewife. June cooked, cleaned, entertained and took care of her family with an effortless style and grace that catapulted her into the elite company of such fashion icons as Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Grace Kelly. We pay homage to Barbara and the Beavs mom.

Photography: Kay-L for Star Exclusive Media, Shoot Director: Mojo Disco, Make-up: Yvette Hunter Bennet, Clothing: Gayla Bentley, Jewelry: The Pearl Source

Style Sessions

The Fashion Therapist, Fila McMillan-Antwine

Fashion is an integral part of most of our lives. We get dressed for work, play, bed, and everything in between. Personal style is what defines us individually and shows our fashion sense. No matter what body type you have, style is all about making it work and working it with strength and confidence.

We’ve all heard the timeless phrase; “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, and indeed it is. Attractiveness is subjective to the perceptions and perspective of the viewer.

Ultimately, what that means is, you will never be able to please everyone nor fit into their ideal, SO DON’T TRY! In ancient Greece, the word for beauty is derived from an original word associated with the meaning of the word hour. What was in its “hour” or natural state was considered beautiful. So whether you were old or young, thick or thin, a banana, pear, apple or hourglass; you were most beautiful when you were in your natural state of being and true to yourself.

Being true to you means knowing who you are, accepting, appreciating what you have and loving yourself for it. No matter what assets you posses; because we all do, confidence reigns supreme. It is the key to pulling off any look and the most important accessory you can wear.

Every popular style icon has one thing in common. They are recognized because they exude an overwhelming confidence and charisma; from Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis to Jennifer Lopez to Lady Gaga. They took and continually take risks with their personal style that push the envelope of fashion and make other women want to emulate them.

Take a cue from either or all of them by being unapologetic about who you are and what you look like. You’re an icon in your own right; express yourself fearlessly!!

For fashion or style questions, concerns and tips email: fila.thefashiontherapist@gmail.com

Focus on the positive There are things about you that are amazing. Concentrate on those aspects including talents, skills, physical and non-physical attributes. Remind yourself of your gifts constantly.

Respect your essence:

Compliment others:

When you are confronted with feelings of jealousy or envy, realize that what you are jealous of is probably something you admire. Compliment another on those things you admire about them and feel the negativity dissipate.

Then get back to what’s great about being you.

What’s best about you is what’s original to you. Style is just an expression and everyone has their own voice. Be sure that your style expresses your point of view.

Stay in your hour: Be comfortable in your own skin.

Don’t try to be something or someone you’re not. Do what comes and feels naturally. When you try too hard, it shows and can come across as fake. The only person who will be fooled is you.

life

Home For The Holidays Three Extraordinary Women Share Their Fave Holiday Dishes Whether you choose to house hop or play the hostess with the mostess, the preparations for holiday gatherings can be very stressful. However, it doesn’t have to be. A little time management, some creativity and a lot of pitching from family and friends can ensure that you get to enjoy the festivities right along with your guests. We spoke to some of our favorite moms to get the 411 on what the holidays are like at their house.

Lucille O’Neal Little Shaq’s Easy Mac&Cheese Lucille is the mother of four including Cleveland Cavaliers powerhouse forward Shaquille O’Neal, she says, “My son is usually on the road during the holidays so it’s different for me. For the last few years Shaq has had a game on Christmas so I split myself between the two families.”

For the O’Neal family the holidays are a very informal affair. Lucille fondly recalls her time living on a military base in Texas and admits that she spent some of the best holidays with the other military families. “My daughters helped cook and we invited the neighbors on the base who had become like family to us.”

Lucille’s dinner would consist of roasted turkey, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, ham, fried chicken, cornbread and candied yams. With all that delicious southern soul food, neighbors still bought dishes to add to the spread. “We lived on a military base with people from a lot of different cultures so there was a lot of rice.”

“We just wanted to get together. I had

made a family out of the military families and I would even invite the service members who couldn’t make it home for the holidays.”

Lucille loves to cook and says it doesn’t take a lot of money to entertain for the holidays. “Those were good festive times.

We got a chance to forget our worries and we celebrated from Thanksgiving to New Years.”

Ingredients One small box of Elbow Macaroni One Egg 1 stick of Margarine (Parkay) 16 oz package of Velveeta Cheese One lb package of Sharp Cheddar Cheese One cup of Bread Crumbs One teaspoon of Oil One tablespoon of Flour 1 to 1 and 1/2 cups of milk Pinch or two of salt Preheat oven to 425 degrees 1. Boil pasta according to boxed directions w/oil and salt 2. Drain noodles after cooking process 3. Put into a separate boiler pan (on low heat), milk, all of the Velveeta Cheese and part of the Sharp Cheese, flour, egg and the margarine to make a cheese sauce.

Make sure the Velveeta Cheese is cut into small pieces because this makes it easier to melt. After heating these combined ingredients and cheeses have melted, add pasta noodles to ensure coverage of noodles and the cheese sauce. Stir sauce slowly so that mixture will not burn. You may want to add additional salt to season to your taste.

4. Pour this mixture into a large casserole dish/ pan and add the rest of the cheese on

top in addition to the bread crumbs.

Cheese and bread crumbs should be evenly spread across the top of the macaroni and cheese casserole.

5. In heated oven ensure bottom of oven is protected from spills (cheese will bubble over and cause a burned mess in your oven). Bake at 425 degrees until top and bottom are both browned. Cool, cut…and enjoy!

Patti Labelle Over the Top, Top, Top Macaroni and Cheese

“I don’t know if you folks have ever had a macaroni and cheese quite like this one.

It’s truly over the top and back around again. I know it sounds like a lot of flavors clashing, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to that old, tired box mix. Trust Miss Patti, I know my Mac ‘n’ cheese!”

Ingredients 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked and drained 2 large eggs, beaten 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ¼ cup shredded provolone cheese 2 teaspoons paprika plus more to taste 1 teaspoon LaBelle Seasoned Salt, add more to taste

½ teaspoon LaBelle Pepper Blend, add more to taste ½ pound chopped cooked shrimp ½ pound chopped cooked lobster meat ½ cup melted butter 2 cups half and half 3 tablespoons Italian seasoned breadcrumbs Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F 2. Lightly butter the interior of a 2 ½ quart casserole dish 3. Place the cooked macaroni and eggs in a mixing bowl, stirring to coat well 4. Add the Velveeta, Cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses to the macaroni, stirring to blend well. Season with 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon LaBelle Seasoned Salt, and ½ teaspoon LaBelle 5. Seasoned Pepper, stirring to blend. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

6. Make a layer of shrimp followed by a layer of lobster. Pour the melted butter over all and season the top with paprika, salt and pepper. Pour the half and half over the top and sprinkle with bread crumbs 7. Using a paper towel, clean off the interior of the casserole dish so it doesn’t burn.

8. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

9. Remove from heat and serve

Maya Angelou's Tree Trimming Chili Santa Fe Chili with Meat Maya Angelou confesses that she doesn’t go for the traditional when it comes to holiday eats. She refuses to let seasons, holidays nor geographical location dictate what she can and cannot eat. A world traveler, Angelou has compiled a cookbook chock full of recipes she’s accumulated over the years. Great Food All Day Long is her declaration that we should be able to eat what we want when we want as long as we do it in moderation. Below is a recipe for her Holiday Chili.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Random House

Ingredients 2 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes (you can substitute ground turkey for the beef) 1/2 cup allpurpose flour 2 large onions,

chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced or crushed 1/2 cup olive oil or other vegetable oil Red Chile Sauce (see below, optional) 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon crushed dried oregano 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary 1 1/2 teaspoons dried tarragon Two 28-ounce cans whole tomatoes and their liquid 2 cups homemade chicken stock or one 14 1/2-ounce can low-sodium chicken or beef stock 1. Sprinkle the beef with the flour in a bowl and mix together. Set aside.

2. In a 6- to 8-quart pot, cook the onions and garlic in the oil over medium heat, stirring often, until the onions are soft, about 10 minutes.

3. Add the meat mixture and Red Chile Sauce (if desired) to the pot. Cook, stirring constantly, until the meat begins to brown, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the cilantro, cumin, cloves, oregano, rosemary, tarragon, tomatoes and their liquid, and stock. Simmer, uncovered, until the meat is very tender, about 1 hour, stirring often.

SERVES 4 TO 6. Serving size: 1/2 cup of chili over 1/2 cup of rice.

For a more flavorful dish, cook and refrigerate for up to 2 days, and reheat before serving. Or place in zippered bags and freeze to be used with a hot dog at a later date. And for a spicier kick, add more Red Chile Sauce (below) to taste.

Red Chile Sauce 4 ounces (12 to 15) dried pasilla chiles (New Mexico or Anaheim chiles work best) 1. Stem and seed the chiles and combine with 3 cups water in a 2 1/2- to 3-quart pot.

2. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat until the chiles are very soft, about 30 minutes.

3. Remove the chiles from the pan and place them in a blender, saving the cooking water.

4. Puree the chiles, adding cooking water as needed, until you have a very smooth mixture, about 3 minutes.

5. Pour the sauce through a fine strainer, rubbing firmly, in to a container. Discard the residue.

6. Add the sauce to chili or other dishes as desired.

By Latima Johnson, Editor in Chief

Holiday Gifting

Finding The Perfect Gifts For Your Loved Ones

Tis' the Season to go shopping! Yes, the holiday hustle, the

kids hours of physical fitness. Some activities include; bowling,

holiday bustle, the holiday spending & holiday togetherness.

boxing, baseball, golf and many more and that’s just the

When it comes to our loved ones, we are willing to do it all. One

standard game that comes with the system. There is also a new

of the joys of holiday gift giving is finding that perfect gift for

game called ‘Kinect’ for X-Box, where you ARE the controller.

that special someone. Holiday gift giving is not as simple as it

Kinect is the hotttest game of the season that offers something

used to be. Presents

for everyone while being

are expected to be a

completely controller-less.

bit more extravagant

Dance, drive, watch your

in taste, style and

favorite games on ESPN,

uniqueness. With

stream live music through

Christmas, Chanukah

ZUNE and much more.

& Kwanzaa within

Kinect will surely keep your

arm’s reach, it’s time to lace up our snow

4

1

teens active while stuck inside the house, the "new outside".

boots and get this

1. LeapFrog Leapster

Besides, when the kids are

season started right,

2. V. Smile

gone you can get your own

leading to a memorable ending.

routine/workout started OR

3. X-Box Kinect

2

Let’s keep this phrase

use it as a family gathering

4. Apple iPad

entertainment tool for those

5. Yankee Candles

family nights. You can expand

in mind when pairing a

your music library and, music

loved one to a gift;

5

"How will it benefit

download gift cards are also great stocking stuffers.

ME?" Moms and dads, you may want the

Girlfriends, wives and

younger kids to have

fiancée’s, we want to exclude

interactive hand held

video games as gifts for our

learning games. The V.

3

man. We want to keep them

Simle Learning

involved with us and in tune

handheld or the ever

with what’s going on. Maybe

so popular LeapFrog Leapster offers several gaming editions to

your beau likes to be on top of the latest in technology, a loaded

grow with your child. They’re devices that gives the feel of a

Apple iPad will allow sports connection on the go or; a MP3 fully

video game but keeps them positively occupied while learning and

equipped with a multitude of his favorite audio books offers the

allows parents some alone time. The same goes for teens. There’s

convenience of reading (listening) his favorite book at the push of

the Wii gaming system with a range of games that allows your

a button. He'll even welcome the latest gadget such as a GPS for

his car as the perfect gift (a slight stroke to his ego). If those are too savvy of a gift for your gent, you can never go wrong with

Now fellas, love comfort. Assist him with an engraved money clip

fresh cologne by Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani or a pampering

which can be purchased anywhere. He’ll also enjoy the

after shave for his mane that Lavera Men Spa Relaxed Santal

simplicities of a Ralph Lauren Polo shirt accompanied by a "Just

offers. For a more involved or personalized gift giving experience,

for Laughs" gag gift from Spencer’s Gifts. Or, if he's your best

a nice set of embroidered boxers & cozy pajama pants (since you

bud, a nice pair of Roberto Cavalli shades would be

wrapped the top for yourself) accompanied by a soothing CD that

perfect.

he'll fancy, will definitely make the night a special one.

Moving on to co-workers; who are like distant yet local, To the boyfriends, husbands and fiancée’s, your ladies love to see

frienemy/family members. Candles will always come in handy

originality in your gift choices but most of all, your woman loves

and Yankee Candles has an array of candle selections to choose

to be pampered. Anything that allows her personal time with her

from. There’s even an excellent selection of candles for those who

beau or mere solitude will be the ultimate gift. Your woman

choose to go green. Soy Candles are growing in popularity

admires the thought put into her gifts. Personalized robes and

because of their light natural scents and are offered by

towels for that blissful spa experience would be greatly

TranquilitySoyCandles.com. Something that everyone local or

appreciated. To take it a step further, an Alexander McQueen

distant, male and female, will enjoy is the Kodak electronic

designer bag or shoe filled with cute stocking stuffers such as

picture frame, filled it with unforgettable moments, captured

Victoria Secret underwear, a Coach Keychain, lip glass by Chanel,

throughout the year.

Mac or Yves St. Laurent, a silk scarf, travel perfumed hand lotion or a gift card to her favorite restaurant. A little bit of everything

The perfect gift comes from your heart and within. A simple card

goes a long way. Bear in mind, a home cooked meal accompanied

with as little as a smiley face on the inside will cause that special

by her favorite bottle of something special with a body massage

someone to shed a tear. Once your gifts are given with love and

by her man’s hands, are classical.

forethought, it will be appreciated in return.

Now family, friends and co-workers are the more complex ones.

No matter what your budget or income; there is something for

We may not spend as much time with most of our family to know

everyone. Ensure it’s something that will always keep you and

exactly what their personal preferences are so it’s always safe to

that person together and involved. We tend to lose touch and the

go with outer wear such as scarfs, hats, gloves and neutral

value of one another. Take the time out, get to know that person

wearable items too. Holding off on heavily printed, striped or

you’re giving to. It'll make the season more

polka dot apparel will save your gifts from being re-gifted. Since

worthwhile and there’s nothing like being graciously thanked

we have a variety of family sizes, a great place to shop is H&M

with a smile.

where you’re sure to get quantity and quality on a budget. It’s like your Old Navy store, a few steps above the Gap with more

HAPPY GIFTING!

carefully selected fashion forward designs. A lot of known celebrities also shop H&M for quality on a budget such as Swizz Beats, Madonna & Rihanna.

What shall we do without friends? Friends are your go-to-people and they expect you to know them in and out. For your female comrades, smell goods from Bath & Body Works or Victoria Secret will always win. If you know what perfume she likes, purchasing the entire set will make you 'the friend of the century'. Couture Couture by Juicy Couture (comes with a nice charm for a charm bracelet) and Twirl by Kate Spade are both new fun fresh fragrances that any girl will love.

By Qiwi Red, Contributor

Great Gifts Guide

Latima's Favorite Things For The Holiday Giving Season

1. Decoded by Jay-Z is a brilliantly written

deconstruction of some of the rapper’s most infamous lyrics. Jay takes the reader on a journey that spans his entire music career and does so in a manner that when finished, the reader feels as if he or she has spent intimate time with Mr. Shawn Carter. From the replica of Andy Warhol’s Rorschach painting on the cover, to the vibrant pictures that capture the essence of Jay’s career, Decoded is a work of art that any fan of hip hop would be elated to receive. $35.00 ($18.88 on Amazon)

2. Embodying luxury, glamour and the

sparkle of the holiday season, MyMoet.com offers consumers a variety of choices to create the perfect gift for business, family, friends and loved ones. The site will do everything for you including a preview of what your bottle will look like and then will directly ship to your loved one! They have also partnered with Saks to create a limited edition Saks snowflake bottle that will also be available on line. For New Yorkers you can order a bottle at the Moet & Chandon kiosk in the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store in the middle of New York City!

Prices start at $90

3. Kenneth Cole New York announces the

addition of several new designs to complement the successful fashion-forward touch screen watch series. New styles feature an attractive retro design which references classic 80s style LCD screen watches and comes in a choice of either black or silver stainless steel. An ideal gift for either men or women who appreciate style, the touch screen collection offers a range of functionalities, including 32 city world time, electro luminescent backlight, stainless steel construction, water resistance and chronograph technology $125-$175

4. Flip Video Ultra HD 8GB Camcorder

provides shoot-and-share simplicity, letting you power on and press record to start capturing vivid, vibrant HD video in seconds.

Connect the flip-out USB arm to a PC or Mac to edit and share video via the preloaded

FlipShare software. $199

1

5. Sheago shea butter is a rich emollient

formulaFor hundreds of years, people have used butters to enhance the skin. Equally, people throughout the world have used herbs and natural plants for healing and the restoration of the skin. Sheago utilizes the best of these practices to bring to you the finest in skin care. High in vitamin A, shea butter is excellent for the enhancement of dry, normal and oily skin types.

6. Great Food All Day Long is author and

2

national treasure Maya Angelou’s second cookbook. This is a great gift for the serious cook in your life. Ms. Angelou infuses hearty recipes with heartfelt wisdom about our relationship with food and weight loss.

Recipes like braised lamb and white beans will go over well during this cold winter season.

7. Say it Loud pays tribute not only to such

household names as Jackie, Ali, Michael, Tiger, Venus, and Serena but to the forgotten many who made their success and glory possible. Profiled in these pages are figures whose accomplishments changed the game and transcended the playing field: Charlie Sifford and Lee Elder, who blazed paths on the PGA tour’s fairways; Moses Fleetwood Walker, the last African-American in professional baseball for nearly a half century before the color barrier finally fell in 1946, and Rube Foster, whose Negro National League shined a light on black stars during that benighted period; Paul Robeson, the first black football All-America, who later became a versatile artist and activist, and Fritz Pollard, whose list of gridiron firsts could fill its own book; Junius Kellogg, whose integrity protected college basketball’s in the 1950s; Althea Gibson, who brought her overpowering game from the streets to Wimbledon’s Centre Court, and Dr. Robert “Whirlwind” Johnson of Richmond, Virginia, who nurtured Gibson, Arthur Ashe, and others in order to make a permanent place for blacks in a “white” game.

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Holiday Spirits

Lifting Our Glasses To Toast The Holiday Season

For those of you looking to rock out in true holiday spirit, here are some seasonal cocktails to match with your favorite jam!

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch by Thurl Ravenscroft It’s close to Christmas and you’re not feeling the holiday spirit yet. Mr. Grinch would be proud.

Make this simple cocktail that features Absinthe and maybe your tune will change.

3 oz boiling water 1.5 oz. Home-Spiced Flor de Caña® (spice recommendation: vanilla bean, nutmeg, cinnamon) 0.5 oz. teaspoon of butter 1 cinnamon stick Fresh nutmeg for garnish In an Irish coffee mug, add boiling water, rum, and top with a small slice of butter.

Stir with cinnamon stick and garnish with fresh nutmeg.

1 oz. LUCID® Absinthe 1 1/2 oz. Midori® Melon Liqueur Splash of ginger ale 2-3 lime wedges 1 lime In a rocks glass, muddle 2 lime wedges.

Add ice, Midori Melon Liqueur and Lucid Absinthe. Shake vigorously and return to rocks glass. Add ginger ale and garnish with a lime spiral.

Feliz Navidad by Jose Feliciano Get a little Latin flair going post-sale to ease your aggravation.

Rock out with Flor de Caña® Rum’s hot spiced toddy.

To make your own home-spiced, Flor de Caña rum: Take 2 oz. Flor de Caña and pour into a mason jar.

Add your favorite spices.

Cover and let sit for 24 hours.

Taste the rum daily and adjust accordingly.

I Saw Mommy Kissin’ Santa Claus by the Jackson 5 No holiday party is complete without a perfectly balanced vodka martini. This mistletoe-like red and green Russian Standard Vodka cocktail is sure to kick off your holiday merriment!

1.5 oz. Russian Standard Vodka Splash of lemon juice 2 oz. Pomegranate Juice Garnish with a mint leaf or lemon twist

All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey Inspire your inner diva: play this all-time favorite holiday song by Mariah Carey while offering your beau a Xanté Hot

Apple cocktail.

1.5 parts Xanté 3 Parts freshly pressed apple juice or apple cider A cinnamon stick Heat the freshly pressed apple juice together with the cinnamon stick.

Add Xanté before serving.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town by Bruce Springstein & Bon Jovi The German Black Tower Dornfelder Pinot Noir wine reminds us to be thankful for good ol’ Kris Kringle, the original Santa. Enjoy the deliciously smooth, velvety taste of this easydrinking wine while making your gift wish list.

For Colored People A Look Into The Black Man & The Black Woman

With the release of, “For Colored Girls…” movie producer Tyler Perry has fired a shot into the air that have both Black men and women squared off and ready to do battle; the only problem is that both sides are looking at the other as the enemy.

This is not going to be a review for the movie; honestly, I don’t even want to talk about the movie because I’m more concerned with the response that both men and women have had to the movie. It seems that whenever there’s a big movie that shows some of the problems that men and women face in life, it has a tendency to divide black men and women pitting them against each other; as if we need any additional help to further sever the remaining slivers of the Black household.

“For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When The Rainbow Is Enuf ” is a book of 20 poems written by Ntozake Shange that was adapted into a screenplay and produced by Tyler Perry. The work is not originally his but rather of a woman that used her voice to give voices to the struggle of all women during a time when their voices weren’t always heard. As a black man, how can I have a problem with that?

I know that it’s hard for a lot of men to listen to a woman when she’s laying out his faults before him; it’s difficult for anyone to listen as they are reminded of their shortcomings.

But, this is where the male ego needs to take a back seat.

Neither the book nor the movie is about men yet I’ve heard many feel how they feel it bashes the black man due to the lack of positive representation. As one man who saw the movie put it, “All of the men were either crazy, women beaters, on the down low or crazy. There was even a rapist. Is that all we are?”

I can understand the feeling that men get when they see “yet another film that perpetuates the stereotype of the overaggressive, hyper-sexual black male. Because of this, Black men become angry because they feel hurt and betrayed. We lash out at Tyler Perry for producing the movie, we lash out

at Ms. Shange for writing the book, we lash out at the Black woman for going to watch the movie with her girlfriends; we become enemies to anyone that participates in the continuing negative depiction of the Black man. We’ve had it hard enough as it is without our own bashing us and putting it on the silver screen for the world to see. Unfortunately, that anger is not only misplaced, but it does nothing to solve the issues between the sexes, it just creates a deeper divide than the one we’ve yet to fix.

One of the biggest problems between Black men and women is that we fail to communicate effectively. In our day to day relationships we can get along well enough, however, there’s a lack of effective communication when it comes to our feelings, our fears and our thoughts. We fail in this aspect of our relationships and when our problems are finally voiced, it causes resentment. As a man I know that the Black woman has had it rough; I know because I’ve had similar struggles. There’s no one that knows my struggle better than she does, yet there’s this fight between us over who’s had more of a struggle. Pardon my candor but we need to get over ourselves. We have both felt pain from the outside world, but nothing like the pain we’ve inflicted on each other. Rather than arguing over who’s pain is worse, we need to listen. Just stop and listen. The acts have already been committed; it’s been done, so pretending like it didn’t happen won’t make it go away and neither of us will be able to heal unless we acknowledge that. Black men have cheated, beat, abandoned, raped and committed many other injustices upon the very women who have birthed us, loved us and supported us all of our lives. Rather than get mad at the story being told, we should be more upset at the fact that there’s a story to tell in the first place. We should want to make sure that the Black woman knows that she can heal and that we support that healing. It’s easy to get mad at the image being depicted on the screen however if we’re all honest with ourselves then we’ll admit that there are men out there that are represented by those “stereotypes”. They may not be representative of all men, however, if it’s a representation of even one man, then that’s one too many as far as I’m concerned. Black women shouldn’t feel

men lay it all on the line for not only the woman they love but the family they helped create. They say that one bad apple can spoil the bunch but that’s not true; just because you bite into one to find a rotten core doesn’t mean your new apple will have worms. Too often Black men aren’t given a chance because of what you’ve been told that we are, but that needs to stop. We need to be judged as individuals and not held accountable for every man who’s dropped the ball. Am I my brother’s keeper?

Yes I am, but my brother is a grown man that will make his own decisions and have to live with them. I’ll always be there to help lift him up, but I can’t live his life for him. I can only live mine so rather than make me pay the fine for the crimes he’s committed, allow your feelings for me be just that; feelings for me.

There are a number of issues that plague the black community and they are not going to solve themselves. We’ve got to start somewhere and the place to start is with the way we think of and treat each other. We can’t change the world if we don’t change ourselves. Neither of us are going to get anywhere by pretending that our problems don’t exist or by trying to solve them alone. It starts with you, but you have to look in the mirror and ask yourself if you’re ready to put in the work that it takes to get it done; our future depends on it.

like she’s loved less by the Black man; there’s enough hate for her in the world without her feeling like she’s not supported by the very person she goes to for comfort.

Black women aren’t perfect and I’m sure that you are aware of your imperfections. You have a responsibility to yourselves and to us to know that even though your past hurts, it’s not indicative of what you have to face in your future. Black men love you, the same way you love us. I’ve watched with my own eyes as Black

By Darren Chester, Staff Writer

Are You Ready For Some Football?

A Man's Rule Book For The Game

It’s that time of year again. The grass is green, the chalk lines

grueling campaign. It requires intense training, concentration

have been laid, Madden NFL 2011 is fully stocked on game store

and stamina. Not everyone will be able to make it through the

shelves; if you didn’t know, football is back and I must

season healthy. There will come a time when depression may set

ask…ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?! I know

in, there may have some type of physical ailment or random

there was probably a collective eye rolling by the majority of my

outburst, not to mention a friendly scuffle or two between a rival

lady readers and I must apologize for my over enthusiastic

set (i.e. fan of another team); your role as a significant other is

opening, however, it’s been a long hot summer and I’m sure I

to be supportive and encouraging, no matter how hopeless their

speak for the majority of the male population when I say; we

team may be.

can’t take it anymore.

Now, don’t get me wrong,

For many fans, football is

there are some women

a way to escape the harsh

that have been eagerly

realities of day to day

awaiting the football

life. Every Monday,

season with us men and

Thursday, Saturday and

to you, I tip my cap. The

Sunday fans watch their

rest of you however will

favorite teams battle and

become Football Widows

they get to yell and

for the next few months

scream at the top of their

and for that I want to

lungs without being

apologize on behalf of all

thought of as crazy. Now,

male fans across the

if you don’t understand

country. We’re sorry.

the game or have no interest, that’s fine;

Now, for those of you

however, if you value

that may not understand

your life and your

exactly what a Football

relationship, you will

Widow is, allow me to

keep your opinions on

introduce you to whom

this primitive behavior to

you very well could

yourself. And, whatever

become in the next few weeks. A Football Widow is a woman (or

you do, don’t let the words, “it’s just a game” come from

man) who will be in a relationship with a Phantom from

between your lips. I’ve seen more relationships end within 15

September 9, 2010 until roughly February 7, 2011. The team

minutes of those words being spoken than I care to remember,

your significant other roots for will determine at what point they

so if you value what you have with your partner, you will learn

again become a living breathing partner towards you. Now, I

the Football Widow rules of survival in order to make it through

don’t want you all to think that you will be completely ignored

this season with your relationship intact.

or anything like that, however, the football season is a long

Rule Number 1: Do not try to compete for attention.

it, embrace it, cherish it because it might be the last time your

You will lose this battle every time. Rather than trying to

Rule Number 4: Do not ask for anything to get done starting an hour before the first game up until an hour after the last game.

compete for your partner’s attention try sitting down and learning the game. If it is of no interest to you, do something to make yourself useful. Grab a beer, make a sandwich, order a

presence is acknowledged until the end of the game.

pizza, go shopping; we don’t care just don’t try to distract your partner from the game at hand. Especially during the 4th quarter

It’s just not going to happen. If it’s important, you might as well

and at any moment during the playoffs or the Superbowl.

go ahead and do it yourself because they are not going to remember. It’s nothing personal; just business.

Rule Number 2: It is not just a game!

Are those just a pair of shoes? Is that just another trip to the

Rule Number 5: Do not nag during post game highlights.

mall? Is that just another handbag? Then no, it is not just a game. Football is the one sport where every game counts. The

Yes, they know that they’ve just watched the game, kept on on

season is not very long (when compared to games played) as other

their phone and/or computer on the other games but watching

sports so every game is important. If your partner’s team is

the highlights is a completely different ballgame. Sometimes you

getting blown out and the result of that blow out is a long face,

miss some things, some plays you just have to see in slow motion.

pouting, cursing, juvenile tantrums and the like, just stay out of

This would be the perfect time for the non-fan to spend some

the way. Saying, “relax, it’s just a game” will cause them to zero

time by catching a highlight or two.

in on you and release all of their pent up aggression on you in the form of a verbal lashing the likes of which you’ve probably never heard. If this happens, just smile, take it and apologize by making a sandwich or grabbing a beer. Then do something really freaky on Monday morning to show that you are really sorry for

Rule Number 6 (this really should be rule number 1): Yes it is a must that we watch football on Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

your insensitivity.

If you guys can have 75 pairs of shoes of which you only wear

Rule Number 3: Halftime is not the time for SEX!!!

the same 3 or 4 pair a week, we can watch football on each one of

Contrary to what you may have been told. Halftime is not a time

If you follow these rules, I can guarantee that your relationship

for a quickie with your mate. A serious fan is not going to want to

will successfully make it through until the end of the season. I

spend the 10 minutes in between halves to have sex. It just

must however reiterate, it is nothing personal, this has nothing to

doesn’t happen. Ok, strike that! It does happen, however not as

do with you as a person or your deficiencies as a significant other,

often as you would think. Halftime is the time that’s used to

it’s just that time of the year. So, again, I ask you, ARE YOU

check up on the scores of other games, check your fantasy

READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?!

those days. Deal with it.

leagues, run to the bathroom to relieve yourself of the pressure that’s been attacking you since the middle of the 1st quarter, refill your glass of whatever with some more of that same whatever, etc. It’s not the time to roll around on the carpet getting all hot and sweaty; unless you just happened to walk by in front of the TV scantly clad, walking that walk. Oh screw it, let me keep it all the way real, you could be walking by in a pair of sweatpants, chances are we’re going to pounce on you. Enjoy

By Darren Chester, Staff Writer

Yes, We Are Ready For Some Football!

The Game Of Hard Hits Isn't Just For Men

As the new football season begins, there are many women out there who are begrudgingly accepting their roles as “football widows” - women who will play second fiddle to college football games on Saturday and professional contests on Sunday. The loving attention they may have once received so freely from the men in their lives, in the months leading up to now, will all but vanish, until after the Super Bowl. While these women may bemoan the sport, there are another group of women who, themselves avid football fans, eagerly welcome the season just as much as their male counterparts.

Contrary to popular belief, these are women who are equally knowledgeable about the game and watch it with a keen eye and interest, and not just to look at men in tight pants, although there could be worst distractions in life. These are ladies who can stand toe to toe with the best of them and discuss pass rushing, red zones, receiving yards and all other appropriate football vernacular. They passionately and fiercely cheer and defend teams who they’ve been rooting for, in

good times and bad. Hey, I applaud loyalty and team spirit just as much as the next girl, but my best friend Rockelle’s enthusiasm, optimism, and daily musings on her beloved New York Jets seriously has me thinking about “unfollowing” her on Twitter.

While I can somewhat identify with the two groups of women mentioned above, there is another set of women who both fascinate and intrigue me. They not only watch and enjoy football, but actually play the game themselves in women’s tackle football leagues. A growing trend over the past ten years, organized leagues such as the National Women’s Football Association, the Women’s Football Alliance and the Independent Women’s Football League have pioneered the sport and have helped women empower themselves through the game. And while you may think that only a handful of women are playing this, you would be wrong. The I.W.F.L. alone boasts 51 teams across the U.S. and Canada, and has approximately 1600 members who

compete in the sport from April to July. According to their website, the league was founded “by a group of women dedicated to making the sport a household name”. Now, I’m all about women’s empowerment and lifting my sisters up, but I have a hard time understanding the allure of this. I once went to my 9 year old nephew’s pee-wee football game and almost became ill when I heard the sound of helmets and pads crashing against one another when the kids would tackle each other. It was my first and only game as I couldn’t handle the possibility of seeing my nephew get hurt (I did this at the risk of losing my “cool Auntie Tara” points, but oh well). So, when I think of what it must feel and sound like to hear this from grown women, I’m left to wonder what is the mentality of the woman who signs up for this: is she brave, daring, adventurous, foolish or all the above. In any event, while this may not appeal to me, I tip my cap to these women warriors and say a secret prayer that they don’t get seriously hurt. In the meantime, I’ll stick to watching those beautiful, muscular and talented men ply their trade each week, and marvel at the amazing catches and unbelievable runs.

During halftime, I may even check to see what Rockelle is talking about on Twitter!

By Tara Brown, a Publicist and writer living in Charlotte, N.C.

feature

A Positive Power House Chenese Lewis Dishes On Work, Health, Body, & Soul

Have you ever met a woman who had it all together? She is beautiful, kind, professional, driven, and giving of herself to the causes and organizations that matter. If you have not had the pleasure of meeting a modern day renaissance woman, we would like to introduce you to Chenese Lewis.

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Chenese Lewis blazed her own trail by making history as the first Miss Plus America, appearing on talk shows such as Dr. Phil, and hosting a widely respected talk radio show. Gemini sat down with Chenese to talk about her career, her outlook on the plus community, and everything else in between.

WORK GMAG: Working with BEDA is a major step for you. What is the organization’s mission? What is your role?

CLEWIS: Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA) was founded to help those who have binge eating disorder, their friends and family, and those who treat the disorder. BEDA provides individuals who suffer from binge eating disorder with the recognition and resources they deserve to begin a safe journey toward a healthy recovery. BEDA also serves as a resource for treatment providers to prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat the disorder. By establishing strong connections among members and sister organizations, BEDA’s goal is to give everyone access to the tools they need to live with, treat, and, ultimately, prevent the disorder. My role as ambassador of the organization is to be a positive role model for the members, bring awareness to the organization, and education the public about the disorder.

GMAG: Love Your Body Day has grown by leaps and bounds every year. For the woman who has never participated, can you describe the experience?

CLEWIS: Hollywood NOW Love Your Body Day is a community event that celebrates women of all shapes and sizes. The main event is a festival that includes a celebrity host, all day talent, vendors, free gifts, and a “real women” fashion show. The weekend also has a panel discussion and launch party. The event is co sponsored by the city of West Hollywood and this year marked my 5th year putting on the event. The vibe in the air is

very fun, uplifting, and positive.

GMAG: LYBD is growing, as previously stated, but there is always room for more. How do you see it expanding in the next few years?

CLEWIS: In the next few years I plan on introducing new projects that I will focus on to reach more people with my message of self love.

GMAG: Tell us more about Hollywood NOW. What is the mission? Who does the organization serve?

CLEWIS: I am currently the president of Hollywood NOW, which is the Hollywood chapter of the National Organization of Women. The National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States.

NOW works to eliminate discrimination and harassment in the workplace, schools, the justice system, and all other sectors of society; secure abortion, birth control and reproductive rights for all women; end all forms of violence against women; eradicate racism, sexism and homophobia; and promote equality and justice in our society.

HEALTH GMAG: Fashion to the plus size woman—to any size woman really—is important. The wrong pair of jeans can ruin her attitude, but health should be the priority. What do you say to those full figured women who don’t take their health as seriously as they should?

CLEWIS: Feeling good about the way you look is part of being healthy. Just because she is full figured does not mean she is not healthy or not taking her health seriously. However in the case that health problems do arise I think the person should actively work to change their lifestyle and get healthier to improve their quality of life, not for vanity sake. Every woman should listen to what they're body tells them. If they're weight is causing some health concerns then they need to take just as much pride in making the inside of their body feel just as good as the outside looks.

GMAG: What steps do you take to keep in shape?

CLEWIS: I eat well balanced meals and not too much fried

foods. I try not to drink a lot of sodas and high sugar drinks. I don’t smoke or drink alcohol. I'm also very active because of my schedule alone, I'm constantly on the move. When I'm not working, I enjoy dancing and swimming.

GMAG: Where do you think the root of childhood obesity comes from? Is it a community issue? Or a parental issue?

CLEWIS: I think it's still a parental issue, despite being compounded by community issues. A child's learned habits still fall on parental guidance. Parents should be a child's role model when it comes to all phases of their life; diet, exercise, study habits, etc... Parents are ultimately responsible for shaping their children into well rounded individuals. With that being said you don’t have to be thin to be healthy, I think health status should be determined on an individual basis by a doctor rater than stereotypes by outer appearance.

GMAG: Do you think the plus community puts more emphasis on the fashion/runway vs. the health/fitness?

CLEWIS: Yes, I think that is true. But I think it’s because the media puts more attention on the fashion side of the plus community rather then the fitness side. I think there are just as many fitness/health initiatives out there for curvy women, but they don't get the same attention or attendance as the glamorous fashion side.

BODY GEMINI: You do a ton of work with various organizations that deal with body image. Why is that particular cause so important to you?

CHENESE: I initially got involved with promoting positive body image for my platform as Miss Plus America. While holding my title I was obligated to promote my platform at least once a month. As time passed, and more opportunities were presented to me, my platform began to grow into something bigger. What started as a platform for a pageant became a platform for my career without me realizing it, and everything has fallen into place like it was destined to be. The cause itself is important to me because I’ve very passionate about positive body image in women of all sizes, I believe when you empower a women you empower the world.

GMAG: From the work that you do dealing with positive body image, what would you like young women to take away from it all?

CLEWIS: The message it to love yourself exactly the way you are, flaws and all. It’s a very simple message and concept, yet so many women struggle with it daily. If I can help one woman realize the beauty that she has within then my work is done.

GMAG: How did you come to accept that Chenese Lewis was a

5’6” full figured woman? Did you fight with the image of you vs. the images seen in the media?

CLEWIS: I was never treated as if anything was wrong with me, therefore I never had a negative experience associated with being full figured. I never struggled with comparing myself to images in the media because I had a strong role model in my mother and well as other women in my family and community.

GMAG: Being in the media/television industry yourself, what kind of change is desperately needed to bridge the gap between “straight” and “plus”?

CLEWIS: I think the definition of beauty needs to be broader, not only with size, but with celebrating women of all ethnicities, ages, heights, etc… I think there needs to be more outlets that showcase more diversity in the mainstream media. Fashion magazines shouldn’t only celebrate diversity in the special body issue, it should be integraded in every issue to the point where it’s not a big deal to see more plus size, dark skinned, or mature women on the covers. In television and film there needs to be more diversity in the leading roles, without the focus of the plot being about her size or difference as a shortcoming.

GMAG: What are your thoughts on the Marie Claire blog entry by Ms. Kelly? Do you think she went too far? Do you think she really did not understand what she was saying and who it would impact?

CLEWIS: Of course I was outraged, I think her comments were really inappropriate and insensitive, especially for a blog and magazine of that caliber. However I think instead of shunning her and protesting the magazine it should be a teachable moment to educate an ignorant person and create change. I never told anyone but after the drama, I had the opportunity to exchange a few emails with her. She was very remorseful for what she said and I really don’t think at the time she wrote it she understood what she was saying was wrong, since it is still socially acceptable in our society to insult and belittle a fat person, that doesn’t excuse her comments, but I don’t think attacking her was the answer. Part of the problem was she didn’t love herself and has body image and eating disorder issues.

SOUL GMAG: What feeds your soul? How are you able to keep climbing toward a goal when obstacles are placed in your way?

CLEWIS: It feeds my soul to know that I am doing what I am destined to do and living a purpose driven life by empowering and uplifting women. With God and my family by my side there is no mountain that I can’t climb and no obstacle that I can’t overcome. I am blessed and highly favored and I know God didn’t bring me this far to fail me now!

GMAG: Where/How do you find your peace?

CLEWIS: I find my peace in God. Through prayer and meditation, God delivers peace to me everyday. He is the reason I stay calm and focused when dealing with some of the trials and tribulations of an entertainers life.

GMAG: Imagine you are in the 5th grade and you are a heavy child. A classmate calls you fat and you’re heart broken. Standing in the bathroom mirror the next morning, what do you say to yourself ?

CLEWIS: I was chubby in the 5th grade, my mom dressed me cute and figure flattering, I always had my hair professionally done, and I carried myself with confidence, like a mini diva. The amor of confidence was built so strong around me that I didn’t have a problem with being teased by my peers in school.

However if it was the opposite I would tell myself you better not cry, defend yourself, and never let anyone disrespect you!

ETC. GMAG: The plus community has come a long way in 10—even 5—years but we still have a ways to go. 5 years from now where would you like to see the community?

CLEWIS: I would like to see more diversity in the fore front of the plus community. The most celebrated curvy figures in the main stream media are “industry plus” rather than true full figured women. I think there is room for everybody and I hope to be a major contributor to making that shift happen to showcasing fuller figures.

GMAG: What’s your fav guilty pleasure?

CLEWIS: Social networking! I’m addicted to Facebook and Twitter. The up side it that it is great for marketing purposes, so my guilty pleasure works to my advantage!

GMAG: Are you single? If so, what’s your type?

CLEWIS: Yes, I am currently single. My type of man is clean cut, intelligent, business savvy, with a sense of humor. I want someone that is career driven and has high goals in life like me. God fearing and family oriented. Preferably not married, no jail record, or on the down low! LOL GMAG: Name one person you would like to pick their brain for one hour.

CLEWIS: Oprah Winfrey of course! But who wouldn’t?!

Historical Curves A Snapshot Of Della Reese

Veteran of stage, screen and song Della Reese, born Deloreese Patricia Early in 1931 in Detroit Michigan has had a career that spans some six plus decades. She began her professional career at the age of thirteen singing gospel and even toured with the legendary Mahalia Jackson. She eventually went on to be certified platinum for her 1957 hit “And that Reminds Me” Known for her quick wit and huge talent, Ms. Reese has appeared in several television sitcoms but her most noted work was on the drama “Touched by an Angel” where she played the character of Tess an angel who

sent other angels to touch people. Reese’s directness, humor and down to earth personality lent a light heartedness to the otherwise somber show.

Her film career is equally as accomplished-most notable her appearance as Ms. Vera in 1989’s “Harlem Nights" where she held her own alongside comedic heavyweights Richard Pryor, Red Foxx and Eddie Murphy.

These days Della Reese, an ordained minister spends her time preaching and appearing in movies.

True Thoughts

The Holiday Season Is About More Than Just Gift Giving

The holidays have always been my favorite time of year; lots of family, food, laughter and fun. For me, the holidays meant spending time at the houses of my grandparents, seeing cousins I probably hadn’t seen since the previous year and just enjoying the love that permeates through a warm house filled with people who love you. When I was 7, things were that simple for me; 20 years later, I realize how blessed and fortunate I was.

These days, when I hear people talk about the holidays, too often there’s negativity attached to it. People not wanting to see a certain uncle, not looking forward to a certain cousin because they always beg for money or they don’t want to be around so and so’s bad ass kids. I’m even guilty of maybe uttering those phrases at a time; admit it, there’s always that one family member that we wish to avoid during holiday events. However, I believe that one of the major issues that we face as a society today is the lack of a family structure. Too many children grow up not knowing who their family really is, not having the support system and stability that a family provides. I do understand that there are some very dysfunctional families out there; I know a few; but one thing that I can say about a dysfunctional family is that they are dysfunctional together.

When you’re young, the holidays usually mean two or three things to you: No school, gifts and no school. I was fortunate enough to spend one or two weekends a month with my grandparents, however when the holidays came around I got to see cousins, aunts and uncles that I hadn’t seen all year. Back then it was nice seeing them and I loved playing with my cousins, but it didn’t really mean much at the time. Like most children, I took for granted that my family would always be there, that it would always remain intact.

Through no fault of my own, I didn’t get to cherish those times the way I should have at the time due to this false sense of security. Twenty years later, I wish I could go back in time.

As you grow older, family has a tendency to not mean as much as it did when you were younger. You meet friends who begin to take the place of the cousins you played with as a child. You develop relationships with men and women that become your mentors, replacing the wisdom and knowledge that you would get from your aunts and uncles. Then you’ll meet that man or woman that will capture your heart and want to take you home to meet their family, thus making you forgo going home for the holidays altogether. It’s the natural progression of life. It’s happened to me, it happens to everyone.

So this holiday season, I ask that you enjoy the fun just a little bit longer. Share the laughter just a little bit louder. Feel the love just a little bit stronger. Things change in the blink of an eye and the memories that you make today may be all that you have to remind you of these times tomorrow. Happy Holidays everyone.

By Darren Chester, Staff Writer