THE CREW
YEMI SEKONI, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, is the owner and director of Donahue
Models & Talent - Rhode Island’s oldest model and talent agency. Her company books some of New England’s top professional models and talent to work with many corporate giants across the region.With over 35 years of experience in various areas of the acting and modeling industry, including theater, TV, film, print and runway, Yemi also holds a Bachelor of Arts in education, a post-graduate diploma in marketing and an MBA. TRADE SECRETS magazine is the culminating outlet for all of her passions – education, performing, marketing and creative writing.
JACLYN PELOPIDA,, WRITER, TALENTTALKS & THE BUZZ, gradu-
ated from Iona College in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in mass communication with a concentration in journalism and a minor in psychology. She was the arts and entertainment editor of her college newspaper, “The Ionian.” Throughout her college career, she was an editorial intern for “M Magazine,” a web editorial intern for “Seventeen” magazine, and a public relations intern for MTV Networks. She is in the midst of writing her first novel and currently resides in Cranston, Rhode Island.
CINZIA ANTONELLI, WRITER; A WINK FROM ITALY, resides with her
husband, Gianfranco DiMarco, and their 14-year-old daughter, Enrica, in the little town of Cassino, Italy. Inheriting her creative and artistic flair from her father, a painter, and her grandfather, a novelist, she grew up with a love for fashion, and a passion for creating costume jewelry. When she is not busy with her daughter or helping her husband with his business, she can be found designing and creating new lines of costume jewelry – inspired by the ancient royals of the world, primitive prints and nature. Through her craft, her goal is to express her unique personality, as she believes that creating an object for the body is also a universal form of communication and language.
OLGA HAWWA, WRITER; THE COSMETIC COUNTER , is licensed esthetician, and makeup artist offering facials, face/body waxIng, eyebrow design, makeup artistry, and body treatments for women and men. She is located 1227 Main Street, West Warwick. Hours are by appointment: makeupandimage.com
LAURA ROSSI, WRITER: SAVOIR-FAIRE, loves accessorizing!
She regularly blogs for The Huffington Post Style section, SheKnows.com, and many other lifestyle sites. Laura is a published author, digital strategist, and runs her own public relations firm.
VALERIE LANGLAIS, WRITER: ON THE TOWN, hails from Oxford,
Massachusetts and has an Associates Degree in Account- ing from Quinsigamond Community College, as well as a Bachelors Degree in Business Management from Kennedy-Western University. During the weekdays, she is a mild-mannered accountant with Charlton Furniture Co., Inc in Charlton, Mas- sachusetts. In the evenings and on weekends, the former model teaches the children’s program for Donahue Models in Cranston, RI; is on staff with the Boucher School of Dance in Oxford, MA and runs an online business selling vintage designer clothing.
RACHEL SILVA, WRITER: OPTIQUE, graduated from Merrimack college with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a minor in Sociology. She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Education with a professional certification as a reading specialist and Literacy Coach. Currently she is employed as a reading specialist in an elementary school. Over the past fifteen years she has strived to bring out the best in students and coworkers by helping them to discover who they are. She has trained teachers during professional workshops in various writing approaches and literacy programs. Educating individuals on topics that can improve and enrich their lives professionally and personally is a passion of hers. She currently resides with her two school aged children in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. LYNELL MASTERSON, WRITER: FROM THE INSIDE OUT, founder of Nell, develops individual and group wellness programs integrating mind, body, spirit methods. Lynell uses coaching, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Expressive Arts, Hypnotherapy, Energy Work, and other practices to create the most effective life-changing programs. Life experience required her to develop these tools to address adversity, hardship and coping skills. Lynell recognizes and honors the challenges and difficulties that we all may encounter and that is why she has created individual and group programs to heal and empower others.
NATASHA MALONE, WRITER: TEEN CHATTER, is a twelve-
year-old girl who lives in Massachusetts. She is a 7th grader and in her 2nd year at middle school. She loves playing with her dogs, chickens, and bunny. She enjoys going to fashion shows, such as Style Week which she’s been going to for about four years. Reading is one of her favorite hobbies as well as writing, drawing, hanging out with friends, and listening to music. Her favorite book series are “The Hunger Games ”and “Harry Potter”. She loves the color purple and she loves mint chocolate chip ice cream. Her idea of a perfect outfit is jeans, Converse, and a shirt with lace. One of her hopes is to be able to publish a book someday.
PRINCE SEFA-BOAKYE (Say-fah Bo-ah-chi), WRITER: PUR-
SUITS, is what people in Boston refer to as a ‘Renaissance Man by Trade,’ ‘Entrepreneur by Day, and ‘Law Student by Night.’ Prince describes himself as a student-entrepreneur blogger; providing daily blogs to students on how to start their own online business while balancing school. He also, from time-to-time, blogs about politics. Currently he is a 2L evening student at Suffolk University Law School, located in Downtown Boston, where he is studying to be a Copyright and Trademark attorney specializing in fields like social media, start-ups, entertainment, and fashion. You can often find Prince at four star restaurants in Boston, having morning breakfast at either the Ritz, Langham Hotel, Omni Park Hotel, or Kimpton Hotel— or at weekly fashion shows at Liberty Hotel. Prince’s favorite Friday hangout spot is the Bond Lounge. For questions on his student-blogging business go to www.livelikeanenterpreneur.com. For his political blogs, go to www.princesdailyjournal.com
DIANE CAPOZZI, WRITER, OUT OF THE CLOSET, born &
raised in Oklahoma, Diane spend most of her childhood focused on competitive swimming. She received a swimming scholarship at Drury University & graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Exercise Physiology, and also holds a Masters Degree in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Degrees in hand, the next item on her bucket list was working abroad, where also started modeling. After returning stateside, she secured representation with multiple agencies including Wilhelmina, Maggie, Inc. & Donahue Models. A career highlight was making it as a finalist on the modeling reality TV series, “She’s Got the Look.” Diane currently resides in Natick, MA & works alongside her husband, running a very busy event & entertainment company. When not working, this fitness fanatic volunteers at the local animal shelter, creating custom greeting cards & working on her new fashion blog: www.fashiononthe4thfloor.com. Through this creative outlet, she hopes to demonstrate that fashion & having your own unique personal style transcend all decades!
PHOTOGRAPHY
DANIELLE DUBE,
HAIR/MAKEUP ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR
SINNARITH VANN
FLAVIO TAVARES
AUDRA HUDSON
LAUREN CHIARINI
VALENCIO
SALES/ADVERTISING
SALES/ADVERTISING
HAIR/MAKEUP
COORDINATOR
FROM THE EDITOR
H
appy January everyone! We hope your new year is of a great start. As we release our first issue for 2016, I want to express a heartfelt thank you to all of our readers who have continued to support us as we keep this very fun venture going!
So this month we have our cover article – Roberto Alfaro, celebrating 24 years of a successful and colorful modeling and acting career. Now that’s quite a feat; especially in New England where, for most models and actors, this is very much a part time endeavor. Roberto is a delight to work with; the consummate professional who wants to do and give his best - always. While working on this interview, we learnt that he loves the TV show, “The Lone Ranger,” and we knew that we had to incorporate this into his shoot. One phone call to our good friend, the talented designer and milliner, Everett Hoag, and I sent my assistant over to his studio. In no time at all, Danielle returns with a full cowboy gear. How could we not love that?! Roberto also loves to dance; and boy can he move those hips! At some point during the shoot, our photog, Valencio threw me into Roberto’s arms and next thing I know, we are dancing full hilt, me with two left feet, and Roberto right in his element! Yeah, that was certainly a fun shoot. So enjoy this and all the other wonderful articles we have for you! Stay fab!
Y
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ROBERTO ALFARO; 24 Years and Going Strong … 21
The Forces Behind the Faces (of Success) … 31 Fierce Fashion. Elevated. … 37 Turn Your Life Around for 2016. It’s as Easy as Riding a Bike! … 47 Italy’s Favorite Pets … 51
A Winter Wonderland of Fashion … 9 How to Tell If it’s Time for a Style Update … 17
IN THE GREEN ROOM
A Winter Wonderland of Fashion
L
os Angeles, California - This year’s Holiday season had a jolt of excitement at the Affluent Attache’ Winter Wonderland Mister Triple X fashion show presented by Tesla . The sexy and elegant charity fashion show featured multiple fashion presentations by Mister Triple X and an opening fashion show by Michael NGO. The event was presented by Tesla Motors in benefit of Children’s Hospital LA and produced by Affluent Attache.
Guests were delighted by the decadent desserts by Belladonna Sweets featuring tequila infused strawberries and sinfully delicious treats. During the night models wowed the crowd with a surprise opening presentation by Michael NGO followed by multiple presentations from none other than Mister Triple X by designer Erik Rosete.
Guests came out to the Affluent Attache’ event to enjoy the fashion, celebrate the holidays and support Children’s Hospital LA. Moreno Sparkling wine was the welcome refreshment of choice by all the chic attendees. Other sponsors and supporters included Let’s Hang App, and Whole Life Balance. Title sponsor Tesla Motors displayed a beautiful Model S and provided lucky guests with Tesla Products and complimentary rides.
OUT OF THE CLOSET
How to Tell If it’s Time for a Style Update By Diane Capozzi
J
anuary is that time for reflection, resolutions and having a fresh start with the New Year. Let’s also make some small adjustments and inject new life into our closets. Do you feel bored with your clothes? Do you dread every time you open your closet to get dressed? Do you struggle for style inspiration? Do you stare into a full closet swearing that you have nothing to wear? Purge and De-clutter! First, rid your closet of clutter by removing items that you haven’t worn in 2 years. It’s doubtful you will wear them again. Then organize clothing, so you have a neat and tidy starting point to work with. When putting a look together, it’s much easier when you can readily see all items. Next, if you struggle to remember the last time you purchased something, it’s been way too long and an update is necessary, BUT shop smarter. When choosing a new piece of clothing, think of a scale from 1-10. Everything you purchase should be a 10! Keep in mind, any new item should fit properly, coordinate with many outfits, be versatile and you should feel great wearing it. Why are you in a rut? If you are bored with most of the clothing in your closet, you most likely take longer to get ready in the morning and that leads to frustration. Do yourself a favor and don’t feel guilty to do a little shopping. A few key pieces can seriously spice your entire wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with a blazer or LBD. If you feel you can’t afford to buy new things, resist the urge to buy every seasonal trend that comes along and remember you don’t have to break the bank to look pulled together. My suggestion is to determine your budget, find and invest in one or two well-made items every year such as a great pair of dark jeans, button-down white shirt or pencil skirt. Finish any look by complementing your classic pieces with less expensive, trendy items or accessories from stores such as Forever 21, Mango or H&M.
There are definitely items that stand the test of time. I’ve owned my black leather jacket for years, but if something shows signs of damage beyond repair or doesn’t fit anymore, it’s time to let it go. Focus on classic, versatile pieces you will use for seasons to come: Pencil skirt Dark denim Trousers dark/black Blazer LBD White button down shirt Classic Pumps or simple ankle boot White and Black t-shirt
TALENT TALKS
ROBERTO ALFARO
24 Years and Counting By Jaclyn Pelopida | Photography & Video by Valencio Small Hair & makeup by Sinnarith Vann
T
he New Year can bring many things. A new start, a new beginning and even a celebration of things past, present and future. But 2016 will be a milestone year for Roberto Alfaro because, “I started my modeling career way back in 1992. So starting in 2016, I will be celebrating my 24th anniversary as a professional model.�
Living in South Bronx, New York for the first 22 years of Alfaro’s life wasn’t exactly the easiest but he made a promise to himself to persevere through all of it. “Growing up poor, in one of the worst drug and ganginfested neighborhoods of the South Bronx (during the 60’s and 70’s) wasn’t easy! But through it all, I made a commitment to myself, early on in my life, not to let the rough environment that I lived in determine my future and all that I wanted to do in life. Thanks to my faith in God, my belief and determination in knowing that there was a better life for me out there somewhere, and lastly, my drive and commitment to never, ever giving up on my dreams!” TS: “How did you first get started modeling?” RA: “It’s a long story, but it all happened by accident, or should I say, being at the right place at the right time. Back in 1992, a photographer from the Hartford Courant by the name of Shana Sureck stopped by my gym one day and asked me if I would ‘be interested in doing an editorial fashion piece for the Fashion Section of The Hartford Courant.’ I would be sporting a pair of Victoria’s Secret boxer shorts for men and nothing else. I told her I would think about it and would get back to her within the next few days. After giving it much thought and getting the okay from my department (I was a police officer at the time), I decided to go for it. About a week later, the story was featured in the Hartford Courant’s Sunday’s paper as a full page ad; I had my very first modeling experience ever under my belt! Approximately two weeks later, with just that one modeling experience and that sole newspaper ad, I was able to sign with my first modeling agency, the former ‘Visage Models’ in Hartford.” TS: “Do you have a day job, and what is it?” RA: “Back in 2000, after 20+ years as a police officer with the City of Hartford Connecticut, I retired from the force in order to pursue my two other careers (acting and modeling) on a full-time basis. After being in the entertainment business for nearly 24 years now, I decided to scale back on both acting and modeling, and went back to work in a job that’s always been dear to my heart and soul, a public servant once again. This time with Quinnipiac University, where I’ve been working full-time as an Armed Public Safety Officer for the past five months. I love making a difference and touching lives along the way!” TS: “What has been your most memorable mod-
eling or acting job so far? What made it memorable?” RA: “One of my most memorable moments in my acting career has to be the time I had a chance to meet and work with Michael J. Fox on the TV show ‘The Good Wife!’ I had the awesome opportunity of getting cast as his chauffer on the show. During the two weeks we worked together, I realized that he was one of the nicest people/actors I had ever met. He was always friendly and we had a great time working together. On the last day of shooting the episode he signed the ‘Back to The Future’ box set after he found out how much my family and I loved watching the ‘Back to The Future’ trilogy! That truly made my day!” TS: “What obstacles have you had to overcome in order to become successful?” RA: “There’s been a lot; from being bullied as a young child in elementary school, dropping out of high school in my freshman year (during a tough period in my life), to dealing with domestic violence at home. I overcame all of this to be the first one in my family to go to college, become a police officer, a professional model and actor, mounted police instructor, Salsa dance instructor, personal trainer, champion body builder, writer, inventor, and finally, becoming a motivational speaker and trying to help others overcome similar situations and encouraging them to ‘Never Stop Dreaming!’ If I was able to make it after dealing with all these life issues, they can too!” TS: “Share your favorite quote.” RA: “I would have to say to ‘Never Stop Dreaming!’ This is what I credit the most with helping me overcome so much in my life. It propelled me to always think positive, believe in myself, and most importantly, it taught me to never, ever give up on what you want to accomplish in life! And to this day, I feel extremely blessed and excited to hopefully make even more dreams come true!” TS: “What the biggest piece of advice you have for other up and coming models/actors out there?” RA: I would just say to always stay positive, believe in yourself, that everything and all is possible, and to never let anyone deter you from following your dreams and making them come true! In the modeling and acting world, you’re going to get plenty of rejections along the way but it’s how you bounce back from those rejections that is going to make a differ-
“I used to love playing basketball. I played all the way from high school to college.�
“One of my most memorable moments in my acting career has to be...the time I had a chance to meet and work with Michael J. Fox�
CLICK TO GO BEHIND THE SCENES
Cowboy outfit courtesy of Everett Hoag
“My favorite TV show of all time has to be “The Lone Ranger”
On the day I decided to become a police officer...I did it for one good reason: To make a difference in the lives of others.�
“I enjoy writing poems, short stories, and working on finishing up my memoir”
ence between giving up, or continuing to fight your way through these obstacles, and ultimately becoming successful. So brush it off, keep your head held high, and never, ever give up! For hard word and determination will always be the key to success in any venture in life!” When describing why he chose to become a police officer, Alfaro reveals he did it for one reason: to make a difference in the life of others. “Growing up in such a tough neighborhood back in my day, I saw so many terrible things and so many young promising lives wasted. Young lives that just got caught up in the system and didn’t know how to break away from this ever-consuming cycle that was draining them from pursing their dreams, and making a better life for themselves. So because of everything I went through in my life and all the lives I saw destroyed along the way, I wanted to make a change in the lives of others and to give them hope that they too can make it. That they too can make a better life for themselves. And finally, that they too can make their dreams come true! This is what I preach about when I talk to the kids during my motivational talks, in hopes that I can make a difference in their lives by sharing my story!” TS: “What do you enjoy doing in your down time?” RA: “On my down time, I just love spending time with my family. Going out to dinner, watching a movie together, or just hanging out around the house and enjoying my family and having fun! I also enjoy writing poems, short stories, and working on finishing up my memoir, which is three quarters of the way done already.” TS: “What sports do you play?” RA: “I used to love playing basketball. I played all the way from high school to college. At one point I was even going to play professional basketball in Puerto Rico before getting seriously hurt back in the early 70’s. I was supposed to go back to Puerto Rico the following year to play for the team, but never went back. However, looking back now, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because had I pursued that career, my life would’ve been completely different than what it is now. Today, I still play once in a while, but definitely not like I used to!” TS: “What’s your favorite form of exercise?”
RA: “Cardio, free weights and circuit training.” TS: “What magazine do you find yourself reading the most?” RA: “Men’s Health Magazine. It’s an awesome magazine with great tips on new workout routines, healthy eating and fashion!” TS: “If you were a character on a TV show or movie, who would you want to be and why?” RA: “I’m going way back now, but my favorite TV show of all time has to be ‘The Lone Ranger,’ which was about a masked sheriff who used to fight crime on horseback during the western days. I used to watch that show all the time as a kid, and always thought that fighting crime on horseback was the coolest thing in the world, so he became my idol. Who knew that approximately 20+ years later, I would make that dream come true and became a mounted police officer and fight crime on horseback. Small world!” TS: “Who is your favorite comedian?” RA: “I have two: Gorge Lopez and Kevin Hart. To me they are two of the funniest comedians around!” TS: “What’s your favorite type of music?” RA: “I love listening to, dancing to, and teaching Salsa! It’s one of the best forms of exercise that I enjoy doing on the dance floor! In fact, it was on the dance floor where I met my beautiful wife of nearly 22 years in the early 90’s. And we haven’t stopped dancing since!” TS: “Who is your favorite singer or band?” RA: “It would have to be Marc Anthony of course! I love dancing Salsa to his music!” TS: “Are you a better singer or dancer?” RA: “Better dancer by far!”
PURSUITS
The
FORCES Behind the FA
earl Adame oversees an entire company that provides radio promotions and advertisements; spotlights for Indie radio; street team promotions; news and weather; and concert details. Web designer is just one of the many hats that she wears, and managing several personalities is just the beginning.
P
One such personality is Gail Scott-Key, Vice President of the ‘Faces of Success Radio,’ a company that provides innovative shows, and intimate interviews with
ACES
(of Success) By Prince Sefa-Boakye
some of your favorite stars. They also feature various genres of Top 40, R&B, Hip Hop, Jazz, Reggae, Rock, Pop, International DJ mixes, Gospel and much more. As the premier host of Entertainment NOW she has interviewed many celebrities such as Michael Black & Emanuel Raheem of GQ; Evelyn Champagne King, Chris Jasper of the The Isley Brothers, The Gordy Family of Motown, the late Marvin Gaye’s family, Michael Cooper and many more.
We had an opportunity to learn more about the forces behind the Faces of Success Radio. Both Adame and Scott-Key were happy to invite us into their world, and share their unique yet, cohesive perspectives on their purpose, their stories and their ambitions.
TS: Tell us what you do? PA: My name is Pearl Adame; I am a station programmer; web designer; graphic designer; event planner; and manager of 26 personalities on our station. We provide radio promotions and advertisements; spotlights for Indie radio; street team promotions; news and weather; and concert details. We refer Indie and major record labels, for release of the album or CD singles, to be reviewed and aired on our shows. We also provide airtime for international DJs too. GSK: My name is Gail Scott-Key. And yes, that is my real name as I am asked that a lot! I kept my maiden name because of the fame I earned through my local broadcasting days and it just so happens that I met
the man of my dreams whose last name was “Key.” I couldn’t have planned it any better if I had tried. As of now I am the NEW Vice President for Faces of Success Radio and host of Entertainment NOW. TS: What is Faces of Success Radio? When did it begin? And where is it based? PA: Faces of Success Radio is a syndicated celebrity radio station, where we showcase Celebrity interviews; website placement; 1 hour interviews; music and full rotation on our syndicated platform; and perform mass promotion from start and end date of the interview. Faces of Success Radio, was born in December of 2014. We are based all over the United States and globally: Reno, Nevada, Texas, California, New York, New Jersey, Las Vegas, England, Africa, Canada. TS: What were you doing before F.O.S.R.? PA: Before I created FOSR, I did a lot of music productions; studio recordings; concert promotions; distribution; management; activism work for “Stop the Violence.” I was on the Business Advisory Council. And I worked with struggling youths and families who were fighting cancer. GSK: I was a model for Donahue Models (2009); a co-host for “Hollywood New England,” created by Miken Entertainment (2009); a co-host for, “The More Music Morning Show” on Cool 96.5FM and full-time reporter for a local independent TV station, WNDS TV-50 (2001 -2003). My most recognizable experience is playing a role in two films: one with Academy Award winner, Ernest Thompson’s film, “Time and Charges,” playing a reporter; and also a reporter in “A Place in Hell” with Director, David Boorboor & CoLead Producer, Ed Cuffe (Cufflink Productions). TS: What would you say is the biggest inspiration behind your Radio Show? GSK: The biggest inspiration behind my radio show, Entertainment NOW, on F.O.S.R. is my baby brother, Richard, and our late brother, Daniel, who had passed away from sickle cell disease in 2001. They both created a comic book called, “The Homesteader Gang.” And they were both featured in our hometown newspaper in Pelham, NH, back in the late 80’s and early 90’s. It was a very cool experience and my brothers were hoping to make it into a TV cartoon show. They asked me to be the voice of one of the characters but sadly, Danny passed away before those dreams could
ever materialize. TS: What are the most popular topics that you cover? PA: For us it’s street politics, celebrity interviews, dating, mating & relationships, showcasing artists on the rise, youth radio, assisting families who are fighting cancer, music law, family law, behind the walls with inmates in prisons, hot topic, and inspirational moments. GSK: The most popular topic that I always cover on my show is the star. I realized from interviewing people like Matt Damon, Betty White, R&B artist NeYo, Rae Dawn Chong, is that they are all real people and enjoy being respected. I like to show that side of them which perhaps no one never knew, like “what they like to do when they are not in front of a camera” etc. It’s because of this that I have been blessed with some great friendships—by being real and respectful towards them. But I really get a kick from interviewing stars I grew up with on TV or on the radio like Don Most (Ralph Malph of Happy Days) or Ernest Thomas (What’s Happening) and many more. A typical work day for this duo is quite full. For Adame, it is “tons of emails and phone calls to reply to. And social media responses to post,” she says, laughing. While for Scott-Key, “My typical day starts with prayer with my husband as I am nothing without God—HE keeps me in check.” After that, she gets on her phone or computer to start booking guests and working with her producer on upcoming shows. “I will then post messages, like crazy, for our FOSR Team and prepare our team meetings on Saturdays which are conference calls.” She continues, “Pearl Adame who NEVER sleeps by the way, is a true professional. That woman is dedicated and always looking for ways to enhance the station and its personalities. I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this amazing on-air family.” TS: What is one reason for anyone to follow your show or contact you for services? PA: As a unit we will continue to work hard and keep pushing great music, great shows and great attitudes as there are daily struggles. We continue to be the best that we can be. One reason for any audience member to follow us is that we promote positive lyrics in our music and keep negative energy away from the ears of the public as much as possible. Including our on-air personalities, who are not to display or demonstrate dysfunctional and/or destructive behavior.
We are constantly encouraging all artists/groups to dedicate themselves in a very positive and respectful way throughout the community. Our interests include various genres, including Top 40, R&B and Hip Hop, Jazz, Reggae, Rock, Pop, international DJ mixes, Gospel, book publishing, digital media, television, film, advertising, music law, MAMA’s and print. We wanted to know what three words their circle of friends would use to describe them: PA: Loyal, dedicated, and an entrepreneur. GSK: Spiritual, compassionate and loving—I love to make people feel like they are important to me because they are! TS: What are three things that a lady entrepreneur
should carry in her purse at all times PA: Camera, iPad and a voice recorder GSK: I love this question. So what are three things that a lady entrepreneur should carry in her purse at all times? A Cell phone, lipstick and lots of safety pins!! TS: What is one piece of advice to a young lady entrepreneur who might want to do what you are doing now? PA: Keep God first and don’t give up! On the days that you don’t want to work, go anyway and still do a good job. Keep a company of people that are positive! And always hang out with someone who is better than you in the field that you are trying to get into. Most of all, respect yourself and others, do honest business and treat people like you want to be treated. GSK: My advice to a young entrepreneur who wants to do what I am doing today is to BE REAL!! Have a genuine care for others as well as respect for what they do. That will carry you a long way! So what are their hopes for the future, with this dynamic duo? For Pearle Adame, it would be to “open
stations worldwide.” We are very excited,” says Scott-Key, “that Faces of Success Radio will be hosting our 2016 Old School Black Tie Dinner & Award Ceremony in Reno Nevada at the Grand Rapids Hotel! The event will feature so many wonderful recording artists and more as I am honored to be hosting the event on behalf of the station. Not only that, but I’ll be featuring a new segment come 2016 called, “Girl Chat” with Alysia Joy Powell who plays Nanny Alicia on NBC’s Hit TV Show, “The Mysteries of Laura.” Alysia is such an amazing actress but more than that, she is OFF THE HOOK funny! She will be talking about things most of us women shy away from or need to have a discussion about. But it will leave everyone wanting more and I am very excited about that and cannot wait! All-in-all,” she concludes, “my future endeavors are things I pray to God for guidance; life is too short to have lost almost all of my family. So every day I am blessed to do what I am doing now—and if it makes someone smile, then I will take it!”
ON THE TOWN
FIERCE FASHION ELEVATED By Yemi Sekoni | Photos courtesy of Tailcoat Times
O
n Saturday December 12th, 2015, the 8th installation of Fierce Styles was in full effect in an elegant boutique space on Newbury Street in Boston, Mass.
A collaborative effort between RegiJames Productions and Tony Hyppolite, the mission of Fierce Styles is “to highlight the local fashion talent – both young and old – in the Boston area.” For this year’s event, three very talent up-and comers were the stars of the night – Ashley Shavon, DLACHAE and I AM KREYOL
Traditionally, the format of Fierce Styles had always been a runway style event, but for this cycle, they opted for a more artistic feel with live models in a creative fashion presentation. Guests had the opportunity to see the outfits up-close, and interact with the designers. Added to the mix were a special segment that gave the hair and makeup team an opportunity to showcase their talents – a part of any fashion production we often to not get to see. Converting piled-high hair into woven baskets, Nefertiti inspired head wear and layered pom-poms really set these artists apart.
Sponsored by Mercedes Benz of Boston, Tailcoat Times, Salon Eva Michelle and Hint Water, the event space was decorated by Purple Fox Events, with sound and lighting by Boston Pro Sound Each designer showcase two segments – and featured
bold strong patterns and prints, I AM KREYOL particularly aimed for a haute couture theme, suggestive of the strength of the woman warrior – bold, fierce, and unapologetic. Blending a mix of textured fabrics like lace and brocade made this an intricate expression of the soft and the strong that make her ‘roar.’
Ashley Shavon went with a combination of bold solids and mixed prints. One of her key pieces as a short-sleeved little black dress, that flared playfully from the waist and added an element of femininity that was hard to miss. This line appealed to the feminine side of the wearer, making her at once elegant and poised, while not taking herself too seriously.
DLACHAE targeted contemporary and African themes. Ripped jeans, cropped tops, a patching of the African continent appliqued on several pieces, alongside bold body accessories, gave us a sassy celebration of the motherland. Light hors d’oeurve and sparkly wine finished off the mood to a beautifully produced evening. A job well done by all.
FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Turn Your Life Around for 20 It’s as Easy as Riding a Bike! By Lynell Masterson
T
he new year, a wonderful time to set new intentions a begin again. After the holiday rush and schedules bei placed out of order, we have a chance to look again a our life and decide what is working and what isn’t. A the first of the year rolls around the idea of resolutions come to mind. For some, making a resolution adds unnecessary pressure and has one cringing at the thought of setting yet another failed goal in their collection of resolutions that never were. For others they begin something new and then get discouraged when it gets difficult and once again, fall back into the same patterns of living and behaving while another year has passed and nothing has changed.
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“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones” - Confucius What if resolutions were used as a rich opportunity to make positive changes in our life, a commitment to the things that really matter? Resolution comes from the root word, resolute, which is to be sure of something. And when we make these resolutions, we do so because we know what makes us feel on purpose, therefore, the term is used because it highlights the inner wisdom that we all have inside of us. So why is it that something so good for us, is so hard? It is not because we were just born to be that way, it is because we have been programmed that way, through numerous years of being exposed to and learning during our developmental years. And here is the cool thing about that, studies in neuroscience now show that we can relearn anything we want. At any age, we have the ability to create new activity in our brains called plasticity which gives us the ability to totally transform our lives! This is not as difficult as you may imagine because all it takes are tiny changes that create a whole multitude of positive outcome. This is how it works. Remember when you were young and learned how to ride a bike? You got on, wobbled along the way and most likely fell off a few times. And then finally after a few shaky starts, you figured it out and then fully mastered it. If you were to get back on a bike whether or not you’ve been on for years, you would be able to ride again. This is the same technique we can use as adults trying to learn something new. What if, as adults we tried to make a resolution using the same learning curve? That means we’d need to make space for the “failure or imperfection”, while continuing to keep on practicing, just like we did when we learned to ride a bike. Do you now see why resolutions don’t work? We don’t make room for the mistakes/ falls/ imperfections. We expect to master something that is not familiar to us without error.
What if you could look at your New Resolutions as the commitment to making change WHILE giving yourself the time to practice before giving up? And when I say practice that includes those times when we fall back into our old pattern, like emptying out the refrigerator before we even blink an eye, which was one of my favorites. Practice is the key, perfection is not, fall off the wagon or bike, get back up on it again, ASAP. Thats all you need to do. There’s no magic, no pills you need. Scientifically, it’s the newly established neural networks that are beginning to wire and fire together as you learn this new thing, so they need time to be fully charged and developed (I highly recommend reading more on this if you are intrigued by this process, our bodies do amazing things). Now, if you want to go for broke and amp your success up a notch, the next part, be gentle on yourself if you go back to your old ways. If you were a parent watching that same child who was learning something new like riding a bike and they fell on their face, what would you tell them? “Hey jerko, you’ll never know how to ride a bike, you may as well quit now because you are not good enough to learn this?” Even if you aren’t a parent, you know that type of language isn’t going to help a child learn, nor will that inner dialogue help you. So use this gentle way of learning with kindness in your heart and motivation in your step and your life will soar to new heights, as easy as riding a bike. For some smiles and cheering along the way, email me at lynellmasterson@gmail.com. Happy practicing!
A WINK FROM…Italy
G
ood blood flows between the Italians and their pet friends, so that we can without a doubt say that they are as a people, increasingly, pet friendly. According to recent research conducted by Zoomark 2015, Italians are deeply convinced that their quality of life has improved considerably with the adoption of pets, even better if it’s a cat or a dog.
Italy’s Favorite Pets
By Cinzia Antonelli
In Italy there are around 60 million pets that we host, and consider as components of all respectful households. Among them are 14 million dogs or cats, and 46 million are other small pets such as fish, birds, rodents and reptiles. The cost that Italians have to face for the care of their animal friends, remain much lower than the benefits that they bring into our daily lives. Our animal friends positively influence our everyday lives, stimulating and promoting a healthier lifestyle and pleasant in terms of our physical health. Just think of the daily walk with your dog friend, which is a beneficial and stimulating physical outdoor activity. The relationship with our animals gives us numerous benefits including the psychophysical aspect. It is no mystery that personally taking care of a pet can make us less stressed and depressed. They transmit serenity and joy, emphasizing in children and adolescents the joy and fun. A good relationship with a small pets provide a special source of well-being to people such as the elderly, children, disabled and sick. There are many medical associations and volunteers who take care of people, and use pets as a means of healing through pet therapy alongside traditional medicine. The pet therapy is sweet, and based on the relationship between man and animal. It is valuable for children and the elderly with particular problems, and in some cases physical and psychological disabilities. Contact with a pet friend, can definitely help overcome serious insecurities, loss of affection and recover lost skills. This type of therapy blends well with traditional medical practices, and the interaction helps the approach and treatment of the doctors, especially at times when the patient refuses to cooperate voluntarily with the doctor. The presence of a pet; a dog, a cat, a horse or a bunny, stimulates and creates an emotional connection that allows communication between doctor-patient-pet and that’s in order to obtain the active participation of the patient in medical therapy. Italians are really crazy about pets, and those who have had the good luck of owning one in their life,
can’t do without, because they consider them part of their family. The famous goldfish is just one of the pets that are presently popular in our homes, as well as the exotic neon. When my daughter Enrica was a little girl, I had two goldfish called Garfield and Nemo, and when I sat in my comfortable sofa and watched them swirl around in their aquarium, I felt so relaxed and calm and it was better than watching TV! Following the fish are birds, canaries with cute and colorful parrots. In third position there are the cats with their dog friends. They are real companion animals who love us unconditionally, without expecting anything in return. Much loved are the German Shepherd, Setter and Labrador. Finally, at the bottom of the list are the rodents such as hamsters and rabbits, reptiles such as iguanas, tortoises and some snakes exposed, in warm and bright display cases.
Italians devote much care towards their animal friends; in fact many stores dedicated to sell specialized foods, articles of toiletries, and various beauty shops for our friends. But what happens when the family goes on vacation during the year? Do not worry! Most of them bring the pets with them, others stay at home with a relative, some take advantage of the hospitality of friends, and finally there is always the board where they will be well cared for and looked after professionally.
Hoping that the friendly, symbiotic relationship established with our animal friends, is always more fun and respectful for the common good. I recall what the great Gandhi said: “The civilization of a people is also measured by how it treats the animals�. Ciao from Italy ... Cinzia Antonelli
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