Bleu Magazine Issue 42 - Trevor Jackson

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R O V E TR N O S K C JA The rising star covers our first ever MILLENNIAL ISSUE - the generation that makes their own rules and waste no apologies for being who they are.

42 Issue 42

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M Y NA K E D TRU T H ™

Dwyane Wade in our Luxury Loungewear

I we󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧 󰇧󰇧󰇧 󰇧󰇧e󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧 󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧 󰇧󰇧󰇧 󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧e󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧󰇧 The smile, the emotion you see on the court, that’s real. That’s the authentic me. Underneath it all, I want the freedom to do my own thing. To be who I want. The best me. Because you don’t ask to be a role model, it just happens.

That’s my Naked Truth™ – what’s yours? # mynakedtruth

THE FREEDOM TO BE YOU wearnaked.com

Available at

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Issue 42

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CONTENTS

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Born For This Rising Star Trevor Jackson Discusses His Dual Passions For Music and Acting Plus What it’s Like Finally Standing in His Own Spotlight.

WORDS TERRON AUSTIN

Beanie Hat HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO. Denim Parka KENNETH NING T-Shirt and Pants SOULLAND Sneakers CONVERSE

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MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHY RICARDO NELSON

BLEUMAGAZINE.COM @BLEUMAGAZINE

FA S H I O N | H E A LT H | C U LT U R E ENTERTAINMENT | ART

CONTENTS 11 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 12 CONTRIBUTORS 14 IT'S ME, IT'S YOU, IT'S BLEU 16 THE 4 BY 5 Window Seat Please 18 GADGETS Fit + Tech 20 CAR You Got To Move It, It's Electric 22 TREND AVE Summer ‘16 26 QUICK EATS Juicing...Is It A Trend Or A Lifestyle 30 BODY Look! It's The Adonis Belt 32 GROOMING Running With The Flag

PHOTOGRAPHY RICARDO NELSON

34 FUEL “One-Two Punch” 36 FUEL Culinary Excursions

78 THE HUMANS

42 TRAVEL Beer Drinking In Cincinnati

82 FASHION Shades Of Debonair

44 FASHION Above The Knee

92 SCORE The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree

50 THE CREATIVES Live, Work, Create..... Art 54 OP-ED Still Sippin' On Some Sizzurp 64 FASHION Taboo: The Comeback With Straight Flavor And Style 72 FEATURE BJ The Chicago Kid: The Soul Of The Church And The Story Of The Streets 8

74 FEATURE The Art Of Storytelling With Tobias Truvillion

MAGAZINE

94 SPOTLIGHT What To Eat Late / Not Just Another Burger Spot 96 BLEULIST 97 ICON Russell Simmons: Hip Hop's Influential Businessman 98 STOCKIST

Sunglasses EYEHUNNES Shirt RIDEAU Jacket COACH MEN'S COLLECTION

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“91 /100” - W IN E E N T H U S IA S T

“COMPULSIVELY DELICIOUS” - THE POUR FOOL

“DANGEROUSLY EASY TO DRINK...

THREE OF US ALMOST FINISHED THE BOTTLE IN ONE SITTING; THAT’S HOW DELICIOUS IT WAS” - C r af t e d M a g azi n e

Issue 42

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MASTHEAD

On The Cover TREVOR JACKSON Words TERRON AUSTIN Photography RICARDO NELSON Fashion CHRIS SANDFORD Hair GARY DICKSON TREVOR JACKSON COVER SHOT: Beanie Hat HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO. Denim Parka KENNETH NING T-Shirt SOULLAND

TEAM BLEU

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EDITORS-AT-LARGE

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

JALEEL MACKEY CLIFFORD HUNT RACHEL PARSONS DOMINIQUE CARSON SABLE SWEEPER JUWAN WILLIAMS

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All advertisements, photographs, text or illustrations are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized to have secured proper consent for the use thereof. Bleu Magazine shall not be held responsible for any errors, loss, expense or liabilities on advertisements accepted after the deadline. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or advertisement in Bleu Magazine is not to be constructed as an indication of sexual orientation of such persons, advertiser or organization. Partial or complete reproduction of an advertisement, news article, feature or photograph from Bleu Magazine is strictly prohibited as Bleu Magazine is a registered trademark. A $25 or 1.5% (whichever is greater) fee will be charged for all NSF checks. All rights reserved.

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

How can you just leave me standing?

Alone in a world that's so cold? (So cold) Maybe I'm just too demanding Maybe I'm just like my father too bold Maybe you're just like my mother She's never satisfied (She's never satisfied) Why do we scream at each other This is what it sounds like When doves cry PRINCE, “WHEN DOVES CRY”

A few weeks ago Prince died. At first I didn’t know how to react. As the world was mourning I was angry. Not as angry about the passing of a legend, but at my cowardice to embrace his genius. As an adolescent I was “teased” for slightly resembling him – due to the beauty mark below my right eye. (His is on the left) That was over two decades ago. Yet, I carried the fear of publicly acknowledging that I know all the lyrics to “Little Red Corvette,” “I Would Die for You,” “Purple Rain,” and “When Doves Cry” into my adult life. How crazy is that? Something so simple could affect me for decades. In all fairness I was not bullied. The teasing was lighthearted and fun. I was way too popular to be bullied. This was more self-inflicted. I didn’t want to be made fun of, so I hid my fondness of his music from my friends.

While we were finishing up this issue, our first ever Millennial Issue, I couldn’t help but be jealous of the unapologetic way this generation lives their lives. They stand up to bullies. They question society. They march for social change. And they believe their lives matter as much as breath means to life. Some experts say that millennials were born between 1977-1995. Others say 1982 to 2004. Either grouping parallels conception during Prince’s music career since his debut Warner Bros. Records release in 1978.

The irony! We are celebrating in this issue a generation for not being afraid to be and love who they are. At the same time an artist who stood for that very same thing forty years ago has passed away.

On the cover we have Trevor Jackson, who represents this new type of star and who we feel will become one of the key faces of this generation. He can do it all- act, dance and sing. We also caught up with BJ the Chicago Kid, Taboo, Martavis Bryant and brought back the summer kicks section. As always sit back and enjoy your BLEU!!

DÉVON CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON

FOUNDER AND GROUP PUBLISHER @DEVONISBLEU

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CONTRIBUTORS

Rachel Parsons

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JALEEL MACKEY

Rachel Parsons is a Brooklyn-based educator and writer.

After spending eight years teaching math in the New York City public schools, she decided to do something completely different, and is now pursuing an MFA in creative nonfiction at Sarah Lawrence College. She is the Editor-in-Chief of the Lumina journal, and believes that media is a powerful tool for social transformation.

Jaleel is a writer, poet, speaker and coach living in Santa Cruz, California. He is drawn to people’s life journeys where he enjoys pinpointing pivotal moments and connecting the dots to uncover a cohesive narrative.

Jaleel believes that stories can teach, persuade, and inspire those who are willing to listen. He believes stories award us opportunities to learn about ourselves and grow with newfound understanding. He has been capturing and sharing snippets of life for more than 10 years in an effort to empower others. You can find Jaleel on Twitter (@jaleelmackey).

RICARDO NELSON

CLIFF HUNT

Ricardo is a Jamaican-born photographer based in New York City. His portraits and editorial work apply the basic principles of photography to capture the human spirit.

His work has been featured in OUT magazine, Schön !, Mashable, Vogue Italia, The Advocate, New York Times, Spin Magazine and GQ online. Commercial clients have included Ford Models, J-Press, Tommy Hilfiger, billyjoelshop.com and Shop.Beyonce.com

Cliff, an alumnus of Morehouse College and a culinary graduate of the International Culinary Center in NYC, is steadily balancing his full-time corporate endeavors while diligently working to one day add value to the face of the food scene not only in New York, but globally!

You can find Mr. Hunt interning in kitchens across the city, educating, hosting his own pop-up shops, catering for new clients willing to experience his culinary creations, or hosting alongside another chef at the Gentlemen’s Kitchen Showcases.

TERRENCE MIELE

SABLE SWEEPER

Terrence Miele discovered photography when he was 14-years-old. He attended Rochester Institute of Technology and Salzburg College graduating with a degree in photographic arts and sciences. He is based out of New York City with a client list that includes New York Times magazine, Fortune, Village Voice, Sony, Absolute Vodka, Vibe, Twisted Records, Nervous Records and Newsweek.

Sable Sweeper is an artistic guru who has combined the world of fashion and journalism. Holding a double BA in English/ Sociology and an Inter Arts minor from Georgetown University, Sable has produced notable articles for Vibe Vixen, Hype Hair, Live Civil, as well as enhancing independent companies through written content. As an active fashion stylist and brand manager, she has conquered worldwide audiences with notable placements of top brands.

MAGAZINE

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onepillchoices.com © 2015 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. UNBC1839 03/15

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IT’S ME, IT’S YOU, IT’S BLEU

THE PERFECT MATCH HOLLYWOOD PREMIERE ARCLIGHT HOLLYWOOD LOS ANGELES, CA MARCH 7, 2016

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A who’s who of Black Hollywood stepped out in style at the March 7th premiere of the new romantic comedy “The Perfect Match,” starring former E! News co-anchor Terrence J. Red carpet favorites include the film’s executive director Queen Latifah, co-stars Paula Patton, Dascha Polanco plus singer/actress Cassie Ventura with her date Diddy, comedian Gary Owen and R&B music’s Estelle among others.

PHOTOGRAPHY ARNOLD TURNER

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1. Rapper French Montana with model Chantel Jeffries and Terrence J. 2. Comedian/actor Gary Owen 8.

3. Actress/model Karreuche Tran 4. Executive Director Queen Latifah 5. Puff Daddy and Cassie

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6. R&B singer/actress Estelle 7. Actress Dascha Polanco 8. Actress Paula Patton

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IT’S ME, IT’S YOU, IT’S BLEU

HBO’S “MAVIS!” PREMIERE FLORENCE GOULD HALL THEATER NEW YORK, NY FEBRUARY 24, 2016

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Legendary soul/gospel singer and Civil Rights icon Mavis Staples’ new HBO documentary “MAVIS!” this February celebrated the vocalist’s 2016 Grammy win and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. Among those in attendance for the former lead singer of The Staple Singers’ screening, red carpet, cocktail hour and surprise performance were musicians Aaron Livingston, Jonathan Batiste and singer Valerie June.

PHOTOGRAPHY DOROTHY HONG/TEAM EPIPHANY

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1. Mavis Staples performs live with Valerie June 2. Musicians Aaron Livingston aka “Son Little” & Jonathan “Jon” Batiste with Mavis Staples & Valerie June 3. Singer/multiinstrumentalist Jonathan “Jon” Batiste 4. SVP of HBO Documentary Film Sara Bernstein welcomes the audience 5. A view of the official “MAVIS!” premiere program 6. Singer Valerie June with guests

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THE 4 BY 5

Window Seat Please Beautiful Beaches, exotic cuisines and a happening night-life are the key ingredients to conjuring up an appetizing retreat! Over indulging in good vibes this summer is a must and we have the top trending locations to add some cool stamps to those blank pages in your passport!

WORDS EBONY ALLISON

BRAZIL

RIO DE JANEIRO 1

Booze, Boobs, and Beaches make the beautiful country of Brazil a famous Hot Spot! With the Olympic Games unwinding in Rio De Janeiro this year, the city will be swarming with international guests looking to create memorable memories that you would not want to be left out of.

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1. BEACH: COPACABANA 2. RESTAURANT: ZAZÁ BISTRÔ 3. HOTEL: FASANO 4. NIGHTLIFE: THE WEEK 5. BEST KNOWN FOR: SOCCER

CUBA HAVANA

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Beautiful architecture dripped in exhilarating colors adds to Havana, Cuba’s unique flavor. The streets of Havana tell the story of Cuba’s past as American cars from the 1950’s line the streets. [The communist party took over in 1959 and cut off any new U.S. imports] Experience the nostalgia for yourself and add Havana, Cuba to your list of must visits for the summer!

1. BEACH: PLAYA DE GUANABO 2. RESTAURANT: PALADAR FONTANA 3. HOTEL: NATIONAL HOTEL OF CUBA 4. NIGHTLIFE: EL FLORIDITA BAR 5. BEST KNOWN FOR: COFFEE

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THE 4 BY 5

SOUTH AFRICA JOHANNESBURG

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Jo’Burg, South Africa’s thriving culture makes this city a conversation starter. Dubbed “The Brooklyn of South Africa” it’s unique character is similar to that of New York City. Art Galleries, pop-up shops, and the nightlife make Jo’burg a main attraction of the summer.

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1. BEACH: ALGOA BAY 2. RESTAURANT: THE GRILLHOUSE 3. HOTEL: THE MICHELANGELO HOTEL 4. NIGHTLIFE: HUSH 5. BEST KNOWN FOR: GOLD

SPAIN IBIZA

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Approximately six million tourist flock to the island of Ibiza, located in Spain, with one goal in mind: To experience the ultimate turn up. Although Ibiza is celebrated for the wild party scene, it’s also a good spot for some good ol relaxation.

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1. BEACH: PLAYA D’EN BOSSA 2. RESTAURANT: ES REBOST DE CA'N PRATS 3. HOTEL: USHUAIA IBIZA BEACH HOTEL 4. NIGHTLIFE: SPACE 5. BEST KNOWN FOR: PARTY SCENE!

c If you don’t want to get out the country or maybe you don’t have that in your budget, then we have some states that we think are good for a little time away from your home and maybe that’s all you need to get that international fix.

SAN ANTONIO: TEXAS

KAUAI: HAWAII

PITTSBURGH: PA

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GADGETS

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FIT+TECH

The warm weather is finally here and that means it’s time to get out of the house and work on that summer body. While push ups and sit ups are great, exercise in 2016 means adding a bit of tech in your regime. From monitoring your fluid intake to guidance with executing the perfect rep, these gadgets will help you achieve your fitness goals.

WORDS DOMINIC BIELAK

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2 FITBIT ALTA $129.00

Turned off by the bulky, unwieldy design of your other fitness tracker? This new, slimmer style might be your go-to. Able to track steps, calories and sleep activity, the Fitbit Alta is making waves for its stylish, slim aesthetic. With an enlarged screen (the device also connects via app to your phone to give you calls, texts and calendar notifications) the gadget features interchangeable bands in sweat-resistant silicon, leather, and stainless steel. With a battery that lasts five days, the lightweight piece is great for throwing on and easy to forget about while it does the work for you.

FITBIT.COM

KUAIWEAR COACHING HEADPHONES $149.00 These headphones are practically a portable personal trainer. The set has a biometric sensor that provides you with real-time, vocal feedback on your performance.

The “coach” also helps you adjust your pace and stride based on the new found information. They’re also waterproof up to three meters, so if you’re trying to take a dive in the pool or the ocean you will be good to go. It also has a seven-hour battery life to keep you satisfied.

INDIEGOGO.COM 18

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GADGETS

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g Not a fan of venturing outdoors or hoping to multitask? Thankfully for you, these video games engage your brain as well as your muscles.

GYENNO CUP

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$98

If you’re worried about dehydration, this souped up water bottle is your answer.

The washable device not only keeps a tally on how much H2O users have consumed in a day but will vibrate to remind you to take a swig; talk about helpful. In addition, the cup will alert you when the water has gotten too warm or when it’s time for a wash. The only thing it can not do? Pour the water for you.

GYENNO.COM

JUST DANCE 2016

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$39.99

WII FIT U WITH BALANCE BOARD AND FIT METER $89.99

RALPH LAUREN POLO TECH SHIRT $295.00

Enlist your shirt into doing more for you than covering your body with this silver-threaded piece. Surprisingly light and comfortable, the Ralph Lauren Polo Tech shirt is embedded with sensors to measure heart rate, calories and breathing depth. What’s more? The iOS connected device also provides exercise suggestions in addition to feedback via your iPhone and tracks your progress via calendar.

RALPHLAUREN.COM

SHAPE UP $19.99

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CAR

YOU GOT TO MOVE IT,IT'S ELETRIC WORDS RAYMOND MORA

ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES ARE ON THE RISE. The world itself needs

a cleaner environment using electricity more. The rider can be using one for shorter time, no gas usage and saving money. They have different top speeds and priced based on the features of the motorcycle. Here are four electric motorcycles on the rise for 2016, making an impact in different ways.

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2016 ZERO DSR

$14,395

SPECS

This electric motorcycle is an upgrade of the Zero DS, delivering 56 percent more torque and 25 percent more power. It also has a 660 amp controller paired with a ZForce motor to produce high acceleration and greater prowess offroad. It’s really for long adventures in the city and beyond that.

ZEROMOTORCYCLES.COM

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TORQUE: 106 FT-LB TOP SPEED: 98 MPH CHARGE TIME: 8.9 HOURS (100% CHARGED) WEIGHT: 419 LB (190 KG)

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SPECS

VICTORY EMPULSE

CAR

$19,999

TORQUE: 61 FT-LB TOP SPEED: 100+ MPH CHARGE TIME: 3.9 HRS (LEVEL II / 0 TO 100%SOC) | 8.9 HRS (LEVEL I / 0 TO 100% SOC WEIGHT: 470 LB (213 KG)

A street electric race motorcycle capable of accelerating up to 100MPH+ per minute. The battery is fully charged in 3.9 hours, runs at 10,400 watts hours. Weighted at about 470 pounds, the motorcycle proves it’s advancement in technology.

VICTORYMOTORCYCLES.COM

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LITO SORA

$77,000

SPECS TORQUE: 66.37 FT-LB TOP SPEED: 120 MPH CHARGE TIME: 9 HOURS WEIGHT: 260 KG (573.2 LBS.)

A combination of style and sophistication make the all new Lito Sora as the world’s first Luxury Electric Superbike. The superbike features touch screen gps, road gripping sensation and high performing brakes. It also has it’s top speed at 120 mph and takes nine hours to charge the superbike.

SORAELECTRICSUPERBIKE.COM

SPECS

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LS218 ELECTRIC SUPERBIKE

$38,888

TORQUE: 168 FT-LB TOP SPEED: 218 MPH CHARGE TIME: 30 MINS ON A DC FAST CHARGER. 120 MINUTES ON LEVEL 2 CHARGER WEIGHT: 495 LBS

The Lighting Superbike (LS218) is the world’s fastest production electric motorcycle, getting a timed run at a top speed of 218.637 mph in Bonneville last August. The record was set using solar energy consumption overall. It charges fast in 30 mins on a DC fast charger.

120 minutes on level two charger to achieve it’s maximum potential.

LIGHTNINGMOTORCYCLE.COM

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TREND AVE

SUMMER ‘16 4 Bleu-Approved Sneaker Brands That Will Have You Looking Summer Fresh WORDS TERENCE MCNEALY

NIKE

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NIKE Desert Journey Air Trainer III PRM NIKE FREE SOCFLY Bringing the technology of tennis performance and design of casual models, Nike Sportswear honors the essence of free technology and features the Nike Free Socfly, a male footwear different from all others.

To honor the location of this year’s big game, Nike enlisted the talents of O’odham tribe member Dwayne Manuel, MFA, who specializes in drawing and graffiti art and resides in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian community in southern Arizona.

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Nike Air Max Ultra Zero

Nike THE AIR MAX 95’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY STYLE Platinum, a brilliant and practically unoxidizable metallic element, is the modern present given to commemorate a 20th wedding anniversary.

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Though the idea for the shoe was put to paper 29 years ago, its first real-life manifestation incorporated nearly three decades of Nike Air innovation. It may not have been the first Nike Air Max, but without it, the Nike Air Max 1 would not exist.

TREND AVE

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CONVERSE

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Converse: Chuck Taylor All Star Andy Warhol Pays homage to the legendary New York City studio, dubbed “The Silver Factory,� where Warhol created many of his celebrated works surrounded by walls covered entirely in silver foil.

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Converse: Chuck Taylor All Star John Varvatos Fashion and craftsmanship collide with timeless rock music influences to create a simplified and clean aesthetic never offered before.

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Converse: Chuck Taylor All Star The Clash Collection London in 1976 was a bustling metropolis that was not only bursting with creativity with the birth of punk rock, but also making rebellious waves in fashion. This season, Converse continues to celebrate this monumental era in both music and fashion with the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star The Clash collection.

Converse: Chuck Taylor All Star The classic Chuck Taylor All Star features a water repellent Shield Canvas upper, gusseted tongue and no metal eyelets, preventing water from seeping into the foot bed. Reflective materials have also been included that bounce bright accents when hit by bursts of light.

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TREND AVE

ADIDAS 1

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ADIDAS: Equipment Racing Guidance The multicolored Adidas sneakers are sure to bring positive vibes to any person walking in them.

ADIDAS: Equipment Racing Guidance 3

These classic looking Adidas kicks will leave you looking like a classic man. With its traditional platform, these shoes will be sure to elevate your summer.

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ADIDAS: Equipment Racing 93 The midnight colored sneakers are perfect for a night out with the boys. Highlighted with straps of bright colors, these sneakers will leave you shinning in the midnight hour.

Adidas: Gazelle The Gazelle species is known to be thin and graceful, and these Adidas sneakers live up to the reputation with its lightweight feel, effortlessly cool aesthetic, the Gazelle is a summer go-to!

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TREND AVE

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REEBOK

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REEBOK: FURYLITE JF Reebok takes a new approach to the classic running sneaker with these paint-splattered inspired sneakers. Perfect for running quick errands, or hanging out with friends.

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REEBOK: WORKOUT PLUS UTILITY These Reebok workout sneakers totally go against the name, and are made for work, not play! Look stylish in these royal blue kicks!

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REEBOK: Ventilator SMB For the man who’s not afraid to be seen, these bright blue Reebok sneakers will surely command all the attention when entering any room.

Reebok: Question Mid: WHITE PARTY Reebok is coming out with a limited edition sneaker series in June called the Question Mid to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Question sneaker. This is one of the 20 limited edition styles coming out called Question Mid “White Party”.

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QUICK EATS

JUICING….IS IT A TREND OR A LIFESTYLE? WORDS SABLE SWEEPER

In today’s society, it is no secret that more and more people are juicing; however the question is: Should juicing be considered the new trend or a lifestyle.

Bleu magazine sat down with the CEO of Maya Goddess Juices by Maya to discuss juicing and to learn exactly what juicing should be used for. Maya, who is currently in school to become a Holistic nutrition coach stresses “Healthy living is a right, not a privilege.“ The CEO, plans to use her company to promote not just juicing, but a life style of longevity healthy living.

How did you get started with Juicing and ultimately start you company?

As a teenager, I suffered from fibroids, which too can cause mood swings and depression.

When I went to the doctor, they attempted to prescribe me all these drugs; however I refused to take them. I grew up with my abuela on a farm and ate all fresh and organic foods, so when I decided to take a natural route to healing I consulted with her and a holistic doctor. Reaching out to elders is very important to me, especial26

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ly with health issues. If you think about it, they did not have all of the treatments and medicines we have today and sought out natural cures, and many were successful.

What are some unknown facts about juicing that one may not know?

Well for one, juicing helps the skin, boost energy, can calm your nerves and most importantly it is healthy.

What are some myths about juicing?

Many people think that juicing is time consuming. Preparation is key.. Once you have a complete understanding of your daily schedule, you will know when is the best time to replace a meal for a juice and essentially make your juices. We need to make time and put in effort in ourselves and health, which many of us do not take the time to do so.

How much should one juice?

It really depends what you are juicing for. Some juices can be used for a meal, as a cleanse to help control disease symptoms etc… I will say that if you are planning to do long-term juicing, to start with a 3-day juice.

What does Maya Goddess Juices offer?

Delicious Juices to support and help the body, Great for over-all wellness and energy levels.

Packed with vitamin’s, nutrients, all natural organic fruits and vegetables. Made with tons of love.

Maya continued….

I plan to use my business to promote a life style that will restore the community. I want to work with people who are silenced and feel they are not worthy of a healthy lifestyle. I want people to be clear of their purpose and what they wish to do with yourself. Good health does not just come from eating, it is mental too. I wish to continue to promote a healthy lifestyle and expand into communities that people are not afraid to go into. Healthy living is a right, not a privilege.

People in the urban community need to know, they have every right to demand lower prices and ask for sales or organic products. I want to be that “Social Bull” and role model.

To learn more about Maya’s Healthy Juices and Smoothies email: mygoddessjuice@gmail.com

TAB

New Odefsey is now available Actual Size (15.4 mm x 7.3 mm)

One small pill contains rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF).

Ask your healthcare provider if ODEFSEY is right for you.

To learn more visit ODEFSEY.com

Please see Brief Summary of Patient Information with important warnings on the adjacent pages.

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Brief Summary of Patient Information about ODEFSEY ODEFSEY (oh-DEF-see) (emtricitabine, rilpivirine and tenofovir alafenamide) tablets Important: Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with ODEFSEY. There may be new information about ODEFSEY. This information is only a summary and does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about ODEFSEY? ODEFSEY can cause serious side effects, including: • Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis may happen in some people who take ODEFSEY or similar medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: – feel very weak or tired – have unusual (not normal) muscle pain – have trouble breathing – have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting – feel cold, especially in your arms and legs – feel dizzy or lightheaded – have a fast or irregular heartbeat • Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems may happen in people who take ODEFSEY. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large and you may develop fat in your liver.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: – your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) – dark “tea-colored” urine – light-colored bowel movements (stools) – loss of appetite – nausea – pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area • You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking ODEFSEY or a similar medicine for a long time.

• Worsening of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. ODEFSEY is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and take ODEFSEY, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking ODEFSEY. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

– Do not run out of ODEFSEY. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your ODEFSEY is all gone.

– Do not stop taking ODEFSEY without first talking to your healthcare provider.

– If you stop taking ODEFSEY, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking ODEFSEY.

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What is ODEFSEY? ODEFSEY is a prescription medicine that is used to treat HIV-1 in people 12 years of age and older: • who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past and have an amount of HIV-1 in their blood (“viral load”) that is no more than 100,000 copies/mL, or • to replace their current HIV-1 medicines in people who have been on the same HIV-1 medicines for at least 6 months, have a viral load that is less than 50 copies/mL, and have never failed past HIV-1 treatment.

It is not known if ODEFSEY is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age or who weigh less than 77 lb (35 kg).

When used to treat HIV-1 infection, ODEFSEY may help: • Reduce the amount of HIV-1 in your blood. This is called “viral load”.

• Increase the number of CD4+ (T) cells in your blood that help fight off other infections.

Reducing the amount of HIV-1 and increasing the CD4+ (T) cells in your blood may help improve your immune system. This may reduce your risk of death or getting infections that can happen when your immune system is weak (opportunistic infections).

ODEFSEY does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. You must keep taking HIV-1 medicines to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others. Do not share or re-use needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them. Do not have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

Who should not take ODEFSEY? Do not take ODEFSEY if you also take a medicine that contains: • carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro ®, Tegretol®, Tegretol-XR®, Teril®) • dexamethasone (Ozurdex®, Maxidex®, Decadron®, BaycadronTM) • dexlansoprazole (Dexilant®) • esomeprazole (Nexium®, Vimovo ®) • lansoprazole (Prevacid®) • omeprazole (Prilosec ®, Zegerid®) • oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) • pantoprazole sodium (Protonix®) • phenobarbital (Luminal®) • phenytoin (Dilantin®, Dilantin-125 ®, Phenytek®) • rabeprazole (Aciphex®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifamate®, Rifater®, Rimactane®) • rifapentine (Priftin®) • the herb St. John’s wort or a product that contains St. John’s wort

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking ODEFSEY? Before taking ODEFSEY, tell your healthcare provider if you: • have liver problems including hepatitis B or C virus infection • have kidney and bone problems • have had depression or suicidal thoughts • have any other medical conditions • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ODEFSEY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking ODEFSEY.

Pregnancy registry: there is a pregnancy registry for women who take HIV-1 medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take ODEFSEY. – You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

– At least one of the medicines in ODEFSEY can pass to your baby in your breast milk. It is not known if the other medicines in ODEFSEY can pass into your breast milk.

– Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines may interact with ODEFSEY. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

• You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with ODEFSEY. • Do not start a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider.

Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take ODEFSEY with other medicines.

How should I take ODEFSEY? • Take ODEFSEY exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take

• •

• • •

it. ODEFSEY is taken by itself (not with other HIV-1 medicines) to treat HIV-1 infection.

Take ODEFSEY 1 time each day with a meal.

Do not change your dose or stop taking ODEFSEY without first talking with your healthcare provider. Stay under a healthcare provider’s care when taking ODEFSEY. Do not miss a dose of ODEFSEY. If you take too much ODEFSEY, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

When your ODEFSEY supply starts to run low, get more from your healthcare provider or pharmacy. This is very important because the amount of virus in your blood may increase if the medicine is stopped for even a short time. The virus may develop resistance to ODEFSEY and become harder to treat.

What are the possible side effects of ODEFSEY? ODEFSEY may cause serious side effects, including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about ODEFSEY?” • Severe skin rash and allergic reactions. Skin rash is a common side effect of ODEFSEY. Rash can be serious. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get a rash. In some cases, rash and allergic reaction may need to be treated in a hospital. If you get a rash with any of the following symptoms, stop taking ODEFSEY and call your healthcare provider right away: – fever – skin blisters – mouth sores – redness or swelling of the eyes (conjunctivitis) – swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat – trouble breathing or swallowing – pain on the right side of the stomach (abdominal) area – dark “tea-colored” urine

• Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right

away if you have any of the following symptoms: – feel sad or hopeless – feel anxious or restless – have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself • Change in liver enzymes. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus infection or who have certain liver enzyme changes may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening liver problems during treatment with ODEFSEY. Liver problems can also happen during treatment with ODEFSEY in people without a history of liver disease. Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with ODEFSEY. • Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking ODEFSEY. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking ODEFSEY if you develop new or worse kidney problems.

• Bone problems can happen in some people who take ODEFSEY. Bone problems may include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones.

The most common side effects of rilpivirine, one of the medicines in ODEFSEY, are depression, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and headache.

The most common side effect of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, two of the medicines in ODEFSEY, is nausea.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

• These are not all the possible side effects of ODEFSEY. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about ODEFSEY. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about ODEFSEY that is written for health professionals.

For more information, call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.ODEFSEY.com.

Keep ODEFSEY and all medicines out of reach of children.

Issued: March 2016

ODEFSEY, the ODEFSEY logo, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and GSI are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. © 2016 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. GILC0216 03/16

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BODY

LOOK! It’s the Adonis Belt WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY RAYMOND MORA

Ever wonder what it feels like to get the “Adonis Belt”, arguably the toughest part of the abdominal section to have. You see many soccer players and athletes with less than 10 percent body fat achieving, and maintaining it over the course of their careers. Now is your chance to be part of the “Adonis Belt” club, only accomplished by hard work, disciplined and patience. Here are three exercises and tips said by celebrity trainer Corey Rouse on the “Adonis Belt”.

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BODY

Alternate Side Planks (3 sets of 10 reps) Muscles worked Left Obliques Right Obliques Transverse Abdominis Rouse: Left and right side, that way you are targeting the obliques, which will help shape up that area.”

Decline Crunches on an ab ball (3 sets of 10 to 15 reps) Muscles worked Rectus Abdominis Abdominal Muscles

Goblet squats (3 sets of 10 reps) Muscles worked Quadriceps Core Rouse: “Squatting always, always, always obliterates body fat, stomach fat. Around that area when you are doing squats, you are killing the abdominal area, so that help shred fat from that area, and that will get you down to 10 percent body fat.”

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Rouse makes it a requirement for the average person to be disciplined with nutrition. He believes in focusing on a clean high-protein diet, keeping those carbs right and eliminating a lot of sugar. He also believes the road to the Adonis Belt is much tougher and those in fitness need to be passionate about it. “The road to the Adonis Belt is literally 60 percent training, 50 per-

cent diet. That’s 110 percent, but that’s what you’re gonna need. A lot of people don’t train core. Nobody understands that and in most exercises that we do like the squat or the pushup, most people are placing most of their emphasis in the arms or in the legs, when the main trigger to that gun is the core. Your core is essentially what’s keeps your spine intact”

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GROOMING

Running With The Flag m

WORDS JALEEL MACKEY PHOTOGRAPHY TERRENCE MIELE

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DON’T BE FOOLED BY HIS YOUTH, SINAN AKYURT is no rookie in the salon game, and his experience shines through in every cut that he crafts, every color that he sets, every product that he pushes out; he knows what he’s doing, and he’s not doing it alone.

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Backed by SIX brothers

who are hairdressers, own salons, and help develop product lines, one brother who assists with the interior designs of the salons, and a father who has owned and operated a hair salon since 1965, Sinan is on a mission to put his family’s name on the map. “I want to do this internationally. I want to share our ideas with others,” says Sinan from the comfort of a red-backed vintage barber chair. “I want to make this academic” and teach people the importance of hairdressing, he says, “it’s one of the most respected professions.”

a Sinan was born in Turkey in 1988, the youngest of his brothers, so he grew up in his family’s salons. He’s been a student of the game, studying the craft his entire life - watching his family from the sidelines, perfecting techniques, understanding the business, learning from mistakes, and avoiding his own. Hairdressing is in his DNA, so he opened his first salon in Istanbul when he was 18 with the help of his brothers. “They are the greatest guys I have ever met, my brothers.” His brothers are strong businessmen who are kind to their employees and listen to their clients.

With so much support and decades of experience, Sinan sounds like a prodigy hairdresser, but he doesn’t allow his education to end with his family’s training. His dreams have carried him to workshops and masterclasses all over the world. “I train with the world’s best hairdressers…we invest in our32

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Sinan's Contact Info: Instagram: #papyonnyc Website: Papyon.nyc Phone: 347 567 5107

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selves,” says Sinan. He’s globe trotted to Japan, Istanbul, Las Vegas, the Caribbean, Turkey, and New York to study under creative directors of major brands and world-renowned hairdressers.

SINAN’S ORINGNAL ORGANIC PRODUCTS

His arsenal of skills includes Japanese techniques, European techniques, and a $2,500 pair of scissors. “They are my swords, I do art with them,” smiles Sinan. “Hairdressing is not about going to school for 2 years and calling yourself a hairdresser; I think hairdressing is more than that because you never know who’s in your chair and how much you can change…their life.”

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The Magic F Inside FF F F

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(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT)

“If you’re a brand in New York, you’re a brand in America, and if you’re a brand in America, you’re a brand in the world”

1 SHAMPOO ANTIOXIDANT Hempseed Avocado Coconut Oil

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$28

While working with his brother in St. Maarten for the family business, AK7 Xperts, Sinan perfected his personal brand of providing the house call treatment to each of his clients.

He consulted with every client before styling their hair, asking them what they did for a living, where they worked, and what they liked to do for fun in an effort to customize a hairstyle that matched their lifestyle.

It was through the life changing service Sinan provided to each of his clients that he earned the encouragement and the confidence to change his own life forever. “They used to tell me I should be in New York, and when I asked them [why] they said a lot of people are looking for a great hair stylist [in New York],” reflects Sinan as he explains that many of

GROOMING

2 CONDITIONER NOURISHING Shea Butter Argan Oil

$28

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SINAN’S DAD AND HIS TOOLS

his clients in St. Maarten were vacationing New Yorkers.

“New York is a place where you can’t be good, you have to be great - the best of the best - so once you have those skills… you end up in New York.”

That was five years ago, and within three short months, Sinan earned a full schedule of clients, built a buzzing brand, and opened a thriving salon: Studio Papyon. At Papyon, the house call treatment is part of the experience.

Each client receives a free consultation and the same treatment he perfected while working in St. Maarten. Sinan tells us, “[he] made one-on-one service affordable to everyone,” and his clients appreciate the difference. The Yelp reviews do not lie! Not everyone can afford to have a hairdresser come to their home, so “Papyon is their home,” says Sinan.

Papyon is where clients are treated with care - like family.

That same level of care is poured into Papyon’s Organic Hair Lines™. Each bottle is made from organic Italian and Moroccan ingredients by a chemist in the Caribbean.

These products are made with environmental and ecological consciousness from beginning to end. You can view their products here and make purchases in the salon.

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Sinan is carrying the flag of his family’s name, and he is determined to make them proud. He has come to New York to make a global brand. “If you’re a brand in New York, you’re a brand in America, and if you’re a brand in America, you’re a brand in the world,” muses Sinan. He is happy to be in New York, and it doesn’t look like he’s leaving any time soon. Welcome home, Sinan. B

100% PURE ARGAN BEARD OIL $30

4 100% PURE ARGAN OIL $30

THE PRODUCTS ARE ALSO...

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PHTHALATE FREE SALT FREE SULPHATE FREE PARABEN FREE PRESERVATIVE FREE

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FUEL

“One - Two Punch” WORDS & COCKTAILS ADONIS FRANK @STARRTENDER

Whats your flavor? The history of the rum punch goes far and wide.

Whether in the caribbean or in your local bar & restaurant you can find a punch the quenches your thirst for a fun, fruity cocktail with a nice kick. It is hard to beat the relaxing caribbean flavors of a rum punch, light rum, dark rum, spiced rum or infused rum will enhance the inital flavor profile for any punch with the perfect combinations of fruit nectars & fresh juices. Dont be afraid to explore the creative wonders of these beautiful, bright and refreshing cocktails guaranteed to take you on a tropical journey through taste. Theres always room for that “one- two punch”.

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Sweet BK Punch DRINK INGREDIENTS:

MALIBU RUM WRAY & NEPHEW RUM PASSION FRUIT NECTAR PINEAPPLE JUICE CRANBERRY JUICE FRESH LIME JUICE SIMPLE SYRUP FRESH RASPBERRIES LEMON WHEELS

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FUEL

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Sunset Rum Punch DRINK INGREDIENTS: BACARDI PINEAPPLE RUM MYERS RUM ORANGE JUICE PINEAPPLE JUICE LIME JUICE BITTERS GRENADINE PINEAPPLE WEDGE

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Mango & Mint Rum Cooler

Tropical Haze DRINK INGREDIENTS:

DRINK INGREDIENTS: CAPTAIN MORGAN WHITE RUM MANGO NECTAR STRAWBERRY MINT INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP LIME JUICE

PINEAPPLE RUM PINEAPPLE JUICE CITRUS BITTERS FRESH LIME JUICE BLUE CURAÇAO

FLOAT SPARKLING WINE

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FUEL

Culinary Excursions IT’S TIME TO BREAK THE NORM OR THE EVERYDAY EXPERIENCE. Usually when you and a group of friends go for

dinner or a night of dining we tend to see the table clothed, silverware, a la carte or 3 course menu, and your normal waiter coming to your table to serve your every need. We also experience it at the table, booth, or a bar in a typical brick and mortar restaurant. Well things are changing so get on board with these trendsetters who are shaking up a customer’s normal dining experience for one that in itself can be an adventure.

Here are a just a few of interesting dining experiences that can take your time of eating out into an entirely different vibe! Let’s take a quick glance at some that offer a fun trend of eating for us lovers of food and fun!

WORDS CLIFF HUNT

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QUEEN OF THE NIGHT - NEW YORK CITY

Opaque - Los Angeles

If you’re in NY you automatically think of Broadway with its lights, glamour, and Tony Award winning musicals. Like any theater goer; you try to eat a nice meal before you see the show that you’ve been dying to see but how about eating in the show as you become a part of the production itself? Well at Queen of The Night it’s the best of both worlds. Audience members are treated to a super fun, creative, outlandish, and delicious show while dining. You’re literally eating in the show! Who wouldn’t want to eat a spectacular curated meal for each show along with a dynamic production? Try it out!

In school we learned of the five senses - Touch, Taste, Feel, Smell, Sight, right? Now, imagine one of those being completely removed during dinner. At Opaque in LA, that’s exactly what they do. You are there for dinner, but your one to two hour dining experienced is completely in the dark. That’s right! Pitch black darkness! It’s a new trend of “dining in the dark” where restaurants, such as Opaque, take the diner into the realm of darkness and to be frank – that’s great! It causes one to focus on what you taste, feel, and smell. Research states that when one sense is removed, the others heighten. Now turn off the lights and enjoy that meal!

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The Ledge – Chicago

Wine Train Dining - Napa Valley

This is what you call a sky-high meal! As a Chicago native, you already know there’s nothing bigger or better than the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower for us natives). With 103 (1,353 ft) floors of greatness you can’t help but take in the beautiful sights of the city. To kick it up a notch you can eat in the stratosphere of the city with a magnificent view. In fact, if you’re a fan of Chicago style deep dish then you can even dine with a “Pie in the Sky” package for your enjoyment. Obviously, this isn’t the place for the afraid of heights but maybe a good pizza and view can help you shake that fear at the Ledge Dining.

Grab your wine glass and empty belly the next time you’re in Northern California and enjoy a scenic train on a nostalgic style of transportation and travel while dinging on multiple courses through the trip. It’s a mixture of vintage, beauty, and luxury mixed into the love for great wine in the beauty of the Napa Valley. It’s a great way to have a classy affair dinner party or even a beautiful date with your loved one. With three kitchens set into this antique train there’s no shortage of quality cuisine. With that being said - get your train ticket and start dining. All aboard!!!

PHOTO BY MATTEO PRANDONI

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FUEL

ELO

MIAMI SUPERCAR ROOMS Cars, Class, and Food. No need for me to explain more but instead let the owner, Elo, discuss what Miami Supercar Rooms is really all about.

BLEU: What was your main c motivation for this concept?

ELO: “My wife loves fine dining and I love nice cars. So, when we were back in England I can recall our nights going great restaurants for fine dining and would drive my nicest vehicle for that evening.

With me being a big car enthusiast, I would find myself excusing myself from the table in order to check on my vehicle during the course of the dinner. I even told my wife that one day I’m going to make a spot where you can sit right next to your car and enjoy your meal! So, with inspiration from a visit

to the London Motor Museum and the location of the art district in Miami that’s where Miami Supercars came into fruition.”

tables, six dining experiences, and only open for meal service on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we have been completely booked!”

What has been the crowd/consumer response and interaction thus far?

“People love it! It’s a perfect merry of the ‘He and she’ where you have the lover of food and a lover of classic vehicles. In fact, sometimes the lover of the vehicle is a woman. I’ve had one lady who race cars state to me she came to the establishment for her love of cars.

It’s been an overwhelming response since the opening on February 2016. With six

What should a visitor expect when dining there?

“It’s not a dining experience but an auto experience with food. You come and you receive history of the car that includes how it goes from a vehicle to later becoming a piece of road art. Guests come and meet the chefs that are preparing their meal and talk to the diners on a personal basis. In preparation of the experience, we just don’t leave the cars there to sit and be admired but also to feel the revving of the engines.

It helps to tie in the whole entire experience especially when we are technically an art gallery for vehicles moreso than a restaurant.

Even our bar is made of a 1972 Ford C30. Lastly, guests leave with an array of ‘magical tool sets’ that we tailor and provide based on what associate members of the car room donate.

What is the fondest dining experience you have ever had and wouldn’t mind replicating there within the parameters of your establishment in some way?

“The experience of having a chef cooking in front of you. There’s a great feeling

to be in a situation where you eat what you want to eat by talking directly to the person who will make it for you. I wanted to bring that interaction to the table along with the interaction the guests automatically experience with our vehicles in the room.”

What is one solid fact about MSC that we should know and expect when visiting?

“We are a gallery of road art. And by road art we mean anything that is super unique, different, and personable” Live right and eat well!

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TRAVEL

Beer Drinking In Cincinnati WORDS LENOX MAGEE PHOTOGRAPHY CINCINNATI TOURISM BOARD

There are two things you must do before arriving to Cincinnati, Ohio: First, make sure you arrange a Tesla to pick you up at the airport. Of course, there’s an app for that. Drivr (godrivr.com) is a Cincinnati based startup offering an exclusively Tesla all-electric luxury fleet to provide “green” hired car service; make sure you request for Brady to pick you up because he’s awesome. Second, come with a thirst for craft beers.

As the city reconnects with its past, craft breweries in Cincinnati has become the beercation destination where you can drink in the region’s storied brewing heritage through local craft beers.

Calling out the best breweries in town can be challenging because they’re all unique and each offer a different palate experience. But if you only have a couple of days in the city, like we did, and want to get the most out of your beercation, use these breweries as a gateway.

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TRAVEL

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URBAN ARTIFACT

TAFT’S ALE HOUSE

1660 BLUE ROCK ST (513) 620 4729 ARTIFACTBEER.COM

1429 RACE ST (513) 334 1393 TAFTSALEHOUSE.COM

Located inside a church in the Northside neighborhood, they focus on sours such as the puckering Finn Berliner pale ale, and the musty-tasting Clothesline, a wild farmhouse rye. Hometown hero George Clooney and his wife have visited, and, it’s now become a destination for live music, Kombucha on draft, Hopwater soda for sale, the George “F’in” Clooney beer, and other funky beers...This place is legit.

Not only did we visually fall in love with this place and its truly crafted beers, but we heart the Brewmaster Kevin Moreland. Taft’s is named after the only U.S. President from Cincinnati, who also happens to be the “biggest belly” president ever—William Howard Taft. Apparently, breweries in churches are a trend in this town, as Taft has beautifully restored the oldest protestant church, equipped with a taproom that delivers a religious experience through their handcrafted ales. This brand-new, three-level microbrewery, bar and restaurant is located just north of Washington Park. The first floor has a speakeasy and the top floor houses the restaurant, which specializes in tri-tip steak. Moreland makes some of the best beers in the city because he pinpoints particular flavors. Don’t pass up the beers named: 27 Pills, Beep Bop Boop, 7th Inning, Old Wooden Tooth, Skronk Juice and Saison de Paulus.

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RHINEGEIST

CHRISTIAN MOERLEIN BREWING CO.

1910 ELM ST (513) 381 1356 RHINEGEIST.COM

The name literally translates to mean “Ghost of the Rhine.”

Rhinegeist is a popular local brewery offering several brews in their massive brewery/tap room. This historical building is well lit by skylights during the day, has two-story tall columns and interesting artwork adorning the wall above the seating area. It is a cool place and there is no confusion about whether or not you’re in the actual brewery. There is also ample space for Ping-Pong, Cornhole (we played for the first time here), and special events. They specialize in IPAs and ales, sip on a pint, or try a sampler of the Stryker, Hustle, T-Rex Black IPA, Truth, and Dunk. The Truth IPA is fantastic and the seasonal Sabre Tooth Tiger Imperial IPA is worth any amount of hunting down.

1621 MOORE ST. (513) 423 9496 CHRISTIANMOERLEIN.COM

“Beer Baron” Greg Hardman is credited with reigniting Cincinnati’s beer passion, it seems. Christian Moerlein is one of the classic names in Cincinnati brewing history. Founded in Cincinnati in the 1850’s, the brewery closed during prohibition and was reformed in 1981. The brewery reopened in 2004, by Hardman, has been releasing high-quality beers at a rapid pace. The “Over the Rhine Ale,” named after the neighborhood where the brewery is located, is a best-seller, along with the “Northern Liberties IPA.” The brewery itself offers tours and has a tasting room, or you can try their beers at their restaurant, Moerlein Lager House on the riverfront, which makes a good spot for dinner and an end to the day.

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FASHION

Above The Knee FASHION CHRIS SANDFORD PHOTOGRAPHY OBI ANYANWU

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FASHION Parka Jacket and Shorts LACOSTE SPORT Bomber Jacket FRENCH CONNECTION Sneakers NEW BALANCE

Opposite Page: Jacket FRENCH CONNECTION Shirt ORIGINAL PENGUIN Shorts LACOSTE Sneakers NEW BALANCE

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FASHION Glasses GARRETT LEIGHT CALIFORNIA OPTICAL Bracelet TRITON Sweatshirt TOPMAN Sweatshorts FRENCH CONNECTION

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FASHION

Sunglasses GARRETT LEIGHT CALIFORNIA OPTICAL Bracelets GILES & BROTHER Shirt OXFORD LADS Shorts TOPMAN Shoes BRUNO MAGLI

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FASHION Sunglasses NIKE VISION Shirt BEN SHERMAN Jacket LACOSTE LIVE Shorts TOPMAN Shoes FLORSHEIM

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FASHION

Hat KANGOL Jacket Sweater Leather Shorts TOPMAN Sneakers BUSCEMI

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THE CREATIVES

Live,Work, Create..... Art f

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY EDRIC ROBINSON

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THE CREATIVES

AT AGE 31, AUSTRALIAN BORN PAINTER LEWIS BEILHARZ feels strongly that the 10,000 miles he

traveled to NYC from Melbourne pursuing his artistic dreams will be well worth the risk. He left behind his spacious art studio and equipment in exchange for a city with “loads of opportunity.” It’s the second time he’s lived here, and it is the place he feels happiest. “I spent my whole life in regional Australia feeling like an alien. I felt rejected by peers because of my sexuality, even though I was doing good work in the community,” says Beilharz with that alluring and interesting accent Australians are known for. “Here, I’m accepted wholly for who I am and I’m not doing anything different,” he continues.

Over the past few years Beilharz has been able to focus on creating life art paintings and using his talents to give back to troubled youth through art therapy. His paintings are figurative abstracts consisting of female nudes with bold color. “I’ve done life drawings of nudes since I was 10. I think it comes across as unknowingly sexual –but it’s not. I just like the female figure in all their forms and shapes and beauty,” Beilharz says. He recalls experiences where patrons have walked out or have been offended by what they consider to be vulgar artwork. “The funny thing is that I’m a gay man drawing curvaceous women. Not everything is sexualized because someone is naked. My intention genuinely doesn’t come from a place of porn or smut but celebrating the human form, which I think

is something to be proud of,” explains Beilharz.

In a cozy room within a temporary apartment he currently stays in Brooklyn, Beilharz lines the walls with a few paintings he’s done. There’s an army jacket with a black and white painting on the back.

Its markings are representative of elements of his life – combined with a tribute to Nelson Mandela. “It consists of images of when I moved to Europe, did my studies, found meditation, my family home, New York, an Exhibition I’m going to have, and pitching Art Therapy,” he shares. Collectively the vison board portrait makes a tribal-like print which he has made into fabric to eventually commission pieces on an active wear clothing line. Right below that is a portrait of Grace Jones on a pink background under the outline of a crown. That crown, a signature symbol in the work of his idol, Brooklyn born Jean-Michel Basquiat On an adjacent wall, there’s a painting he borrowed from a friend who bought the piece after an exhibition a year before. In the painting there are four figures; two are female and two are men.

One female is nude, the other is sporting a yellow top and bikini-like bottom. Both have blond hair.

One of the male figures is sporting a pair of orange trousers with a crew neck shirt, while the other wears a cropped baby blue football jersey with the number “84” on the chest and white underwear. All these figures he says comes from his head and is drawn 100% freehand. “I’ve always had the image of

“The funny thing is that I’m a gay man drawing curvaceous women. Not everything is sexualized because someone is naked.”

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this woman stuck in my head,” he says pointing to the nude woman in the painting.

These figures are no one in particular”.

About five years ago Beilharz received qualifications as an art therapist which has allowed him to work with disenfranchised Australian youth in the troubled community he grew up in. “My community had challenges; unemployment, drug problems, and violence. Through art therapy, I work with people that are considered end of the spectrum, these are teens no one wants to work with.” The creative process of art therapy basically allows one to use art expression to resolve issues as well as develop and manage their behaviors, feelings, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and awareness. “I used to work with aborigine kids caught in gangs. There’s lots of displacement in that community. Allowing these kids to find a connection through art is very fulfilling. They can express themselves through painting, poetry, and in the process find out more about their culture,” reveals Beilharz. There’s a passion that envelops him as he details his projects.

These projects are extensions of his artistry. Beilharz has been back in NYC for a month now and is slowly building connections and lining up potential gigs. He’s met with Combs Enterprises regarding possible art therapy projects for inner city teens. He also has plans of one day having his own one man show. On the ground of his room is a series of 30 paintings that make up a larger image for a charity event, “I’ve Never Been that Girl.” Beilharz says he’s learning to speak up about what he wants to do and noticing that people are receptive to that. “In Australia, there’s a saying called, ‘tall poppy syndrome.’ If you talk about yourself or what you do too much you kinda look like ugh he’s full of himself,’’ he says.

“In America, it’s not seen that way which is cool. I’m in a place where I see things clearer, as an artist, individual and as a gay man. I feel there’s nothing watered down with who I can be here.” B

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STILL SIPPIN’ ON SOME SIZZURP WORDS RACHEL PARSONS

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ILLUSTRATIONS DOMINIC BIELAK

Codeine Cocktails and The Passing Moment in Youth Substance Abuse

OP-ED

DO A YOUTUBE SEARCH FOR LEAN OR SIZZURP, AND MANY HOW-TO

videos pop up. Disembodied hands combine dark bottles of thick purple liquid, ice cubes, and soda in double-stacked white foam cups. Some bolder mixologists show their faces, eyes droopy and voices slow, describing their torpid, mellow high.

The viscous fluid in the videos is promethazine codeine cough syrup. An opiate paired with a central nervous system suppressant, it produces a sense of well-being or euphoria, but can also lead to addiction, seizures, painful withdrawals, and cardiac or respiratory arrest. Available only by prescription, the drug is difficult to acquire.

Lean originated in the 1990s in the Houston hip-hop scene. It killed Texas rappers DJ Screw and Pimp C before putting Lil Wayne in the hospital. Shortly after Justin Bieber made headlines for abusing the drink. Actavis, the manufacturer of the most popular brand of syrup, ceased production, citing its glamorization and misuse. Generics such as Hi Tech and Qualitest replaced it, but many users complained about their less appealing taste.

Since the Bieber scandal, there has been a resurgence of news stories focused on teens abusing Lean, accompanied with lists of warning signs for parents. Devin McCrossan, Director of Admissions and co-founder of Constellations Recovery in Westchester, New York, explains that many young people are drawn to the drug because of its depiction in the mainstream media: “It is obviously sensationalized and becomes very alluring to people who are listening to [rap] music and want to know what it’s all about.” Jo Fleurimond, a 20-year-old college student in New York City, agreed, saying some kids drink Lean because they want to fit in. “I think a lot of it is people are just feeling isolated,” he said. “I watch a lot of bad things happen just because somebody was lonely.”

behavior, John Crepsac, Executive Director of Constellations Recovery and faculty member at New York University’s School of Social Work, warns against this belief. He says it adds an air of legitimacy to drug use and paints it as a low risk situation: “I think that any drug taking behavior, for anyone under the age of twenty one, has to be identified as moderate to high risk-taking behavior.”

Whether it’s to fit in, create a sense of identity, the ease of access, countering underlying trauma, or self-medicating mental health issues, youth use drugs for a variety of reasons. Crepsac talks about the importance of early prevention: “If you begin to use substances before fifteen, chances are that you will go on to develop some kind of substance use disorder.” Patti Carroll, a Licensed Professional Counselor at the Henry Ford Allegiance Recovery Center in Jackson, Michigan, explains one aspect of why: “They’ve safeguarded themselves with their drugs for so many years, and then they come into treatment and you take their drug away … They leave and they do it all again because they have no tools to even deal with low-self worth or trauma they’ve had since childhood.”

Hi-Tech

cv

PROMETHAZINE HYDROCHLORIDE AND CODEINE PHOSPHATE SYRUP

According to the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, prescription drugs are the second most misused category of substances in the U.S., behind marijuana. When looking at codeine cough syrup in particular, reports coming out of the University of Texas at Austin in 2014 found that Lean continued as a phenomenon in that state, with 11 percent of teens surveyed having used codeine cough syrup to get high. It is not as prevalent in 2016, and it is still largely a regional phenomenon.

As drug fads come in and out of fashion, though, other substances arrive to take their place. MDMA (Molly) and synthetic marijuana (K2 or Spice) are much more widespread. While some view drug experimentation among adolescents as normal

So what is there to do about adolescent substance abuse? We definitely shouldn’t be locking people up. Those sent to prison for non-violent drug crimes are not getting the help they need to overcome addiction. Instead of harsh criminal sentences, Crepsac proposes we ask larger societal questions: “Why do young people want to use drugs? What is it that’s going on where the United States is one of the most drug using countries on the planet? We need to understand that versus this policy of mass incarceration.”

Education and prevention campaigns targeted at teens are often based on fear, rather than fact. Being honest about how drugs work and the risks and consequences associated with them would be a good start. They should know that substances affect everybody differently, depending on their biology, psychology, and environment.

In addition, and perhaps most importantly, young people need to have a real sense that they can make it in this world. Crepsac talks about those who find success in recovery: “If they could develop a sense of self that transcends their drug use, then they have the opportunity to recover. A lot of that has to do with finding their purpose and passion.” If we don’t create a society that supports youth in becoming their full selves, then drug misuse, whether it be Lean or any other substance, is not going anywhere.

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COVER STORY

Rising Star Trevor Jackson Discusses His Dual Passions For Music and Acting Plus

What it’s Like Finally Standing in His Own Spotlight.

WORDS TERRON AUSTIN FASHION CHRIS SANDFORD PHOTOGRAPHY RICARDO NELSON GROOMING ASARI SUZANNE HAIR GARY DICKSON LOCATION HOTEL INDIGO LOWER EAST SIDE NEW YORK

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Vintage Baja Hoodie and Necklace (AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT BUFFALO EXCHANGE CHELSEA, NYC) Denim Vest STANDARD CLOTH Khaki Pants LEVI'S

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accessories all receiving their last minute touchups, a stylist calling the shots, a makeup artist prepped to make his skin glow on camera and a photographer setting up equipment for the first shots of the day, Jackson seems to turn on an internal switch shifting his energy into high gear.

Moments before his arrival, Jackson was en route to the set of his photo shoot Snapchatting his whereabouts to his thousands of followers. Playfully singing his own made up ditty about how he’s “got to keep on moving,” Jackson greets everyone in the room with an enthusiastic “hello,” a handshake and a winning smile.

Slightly fatigued after his flight from Los Angeles, his home for the last eight years, he’s been quite busy becoming a superstar amongst the new wave of young entertainers. The Indianapolis native whose father had high hopes for his son to play basketball hasn’t stopped dreaming out loud. He recently snagged an opening gig on Tank’s “Sex, Love & Pain” tour and is already slated for film projects to carry him throughout the year. Jackson is currently making both music and acting his daily sport, successfully juggling a rigorous schedule between his two passions.

WHAT TURNED OUT TO BE A SUNNY YET UNUSUALLY

cool Monday afternoon in early April, Trevor Jackson glides quietly into an already bustling suite at the Hotel Indigo on the Lower East Side of New York City. In a room full of designer garments, shoes and

Vintage Shirt and Jacket (AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT BUFFALO EXCHANGE CHELSEA, NYC) Pants DRIES VAN NOTEN

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“It’s the funniest thing. People who know me as an actor don’t know I sing,” said Jackson flashing that signature coy smile once again. “Then there are people who know that I sing and don’t know that

I’m an actor. So now, it’s starting to come together. People are putting the name with the face and it makes sense, but I just want to give it all that I’ve got while I’m here.”

Today, however, Jackson is adding model to that growing list of working titles. Seated in the makeup chair he’s visibly eager to put in the day’s work as he prepares to do a bit of acting by morphing from one look to the next.

“I was listening to a lot of people with a lot of opinions. I had to grow up as a man which forced me to grow up as an artist.”

“I’m excited to be here. When I first got here I was tired, but when I saw everybody making moves I caught the vibe and I’m ready to roll,” said Jackson convincingly. It’s the type of motivation he’ll need for a full day of shoots and interviews already

COVER STORY Fedora Hat STETSON Necklace TRITON Bracelets GILES & BROTHER Jacket KINFOLK Sweater OPENING CEREMONY Cropped Sweatpants MATIERE Sneakers K. SWISS

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COVER STORY T-Shirt ALTERNATIVE APPAREL Suit RIDEAU

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Suit PERRY ELLIS

booked ahead of an even bigger day coming up the next day - the kick off of his “In My Feelings” Tour.

The five-city tour supports music from his debut project of the same name and saw him headlining the BET Music Matters Showcase held at New York’s S.O.B.’s live music venue.

Released August 2015 on Atlantic Records, the album sees Jackson’s string of previous laidback R&B singles like “Drop It” featuring B.O.B. from his 2013 EP “#NewThang” and “Here I Come” playing out just the way he desired. “My goal was to make an album that is not just a bunch of singles, but an album that can be listened to from top to bottom,” said Jackson. “I wanted every song to say something, to be an experience and to be a complete body of work.”

“In My Feelings” is a collection of roughly a dozen slick, radio-friendly R&B tracks sprinkled with hip hop elements from Mystikal and Kevin Gates that showcase Jackson’s vocal ability and his gift of songwriting atop infectious rhythmic patterns. The project also offers a deeper look into who Jackson is becoming even today. “This whole project was basically just me coming into my own. When I got signed, I was very young. I was listening to a lot of people with a lot of opinions. I had to grow up as a man which forced me to grow up as an artist.”

On opening night of the tour, Jackson’s artistry is a little more grown up than the handful of guest rappers and singers. He removes his shirt and commands the crowd with ease. Jackson opted to share his headlining moment with friend Diggy Simmons, his surprise guest who helped set off the finale of his show with their 2014 single “My Girl” while another rapper, songwriter and producer Akon watched attentively from the audience. Jackson and Simmons spontaneous onstage collaboration came from a text conversation during the photo shoot when Simmons found out his friend was in town and invited him to the studio.

“That’s just like Trevor,” said his manager Ms. Baxter after the show. “He wants to take everyone with him wherever he goes.” She’s the one keeping track of Jackson’s schedule handling everything from appearances to bookings and of course the current tour which is expected to hit additional cities this summer. “It happens like that whenever we’re on the road. He’ll have somewhere to be and he’ll go ‘I’m just going to stop by for a few minutes.’ Before you know it, a few hours and a hit track later, I’m the bad guy coming in to make sure he’s where he needs to be on time.”

Jackson’s road to officially releasing music and signing with a major label at age 15 were both a part of a linear series of magical moments in the making throughout his budding career. Back in 2005, before moving to Los Angeles to be closer to the music, film, and television industries, Jackson began as Young Simba in the touring production of The Lion King. “That was a turning point in my life when I realized that entertainment was what I just had to do. Doing The Lion King, I realized that singing was a huge part of my life and I wanted to

“I wanted every song to say something, to be an experience and to be a complete body of work.”

make good music for the world.” Jackson also said the show’s intense touring schedule helped prepare him for the intensity of his career now.

Three years of touring both the east and west coast singing, acting, and dancing, Jackson left the number one show on Broadway and turned his attention to the small screen. His television guest appearances include the CBS series Cold Case, SyFy’s Eureka, and an episode of Harry’s Law for which he won the Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a TV Series for his role as “Willie Blue.”

Jackson later expanded into film, landing in gospel star Deitrick Haddon’s faith-based feature film debut A Beautiful Soul in 2012. That same year, Jackson appeared in the Disney Channel television movie Let It Shine before he completed shooting for the upcoming feature film Sons 2 The Grave alongside Darren Dewitt Henson.

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Hat '47 BRAND Necklace TRITON Vintage Tank Top (AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT BUFFALO EXCHANGE CHELSEA, NYC) Jeans LEVI'S Coat KINFOLK Sneakers VANS

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COVER STORY

Gilet and Jogger Pants KENNETH NING Shirt SAINT JAMES Boots PALLADIUM

Most recently, Jackson starred as “Kevin LaCroix” in the second season of John Ridley’s hit dramatic series American Crime. Jackson’s character is the number one player on the basketball team of a prestigious high school whose members were accused of sexual assaulting a male student. Weekly this season featured serious conversations about homophobia, gender bias, racial prejudice, politics, and classicism.

Jackson’s character, the only child of an affluent African American family initially becomes targeted for all the wrong reasons.

“It was definitely hard in terms of real acting, but it pushed me,” said Jackson. “It pushed me to a different place. I had to access a completely different mental space.”

Jackson says his character’s personality was also challenging because he was sort of caught in the middle of two worlds. “Kevin’s family having money had a lot to do with how he treated other people. It was never in a disrespectful kind of way, but I feel like he just wanted to do the right thing.”

During a lunch break and set changes for the shoot, Jackson asked me to play an electronic game of chess he’d been fiddling with on his phone. After three rounds of me losing each, I asked him where he

“It pushed me to a different place.

I had to access a completely different mental space.” learned the to play chess. “My dad taught me. He used to make me play when I was a kid and I hated it, but now I beat him at it.”

Jackson has his eyes set on directing his own projects one day, and says being in the environment of seasoned actors was most beneficial. “It was more of a visual lesson than a verbal one for me. Just watching everyone in their habitat, I tried to soak up everything even between takes about what they each were trying to get out of conversations with the directors.”

Basketball quickly comes back into focus as guests from the NBA stop by the set to help Jackson fulfill one of his father’s early dreams for his son – holding the Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy for a series of promotional pictures and yes, more Snapchat videos.

His eyes light up like a kid in a candy store. “Man, this thing is actually pretty heavy,” he says while cradling the golden statue atop the hotel suite’s balcony posing with the Manhattan skyline off in the distance. The wind is blowing beneath his army fatigue jacket making him look like a superhero in the distance. Suddenly he transforms back into character again and it is obvious he is a natural. B

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Taboo: P

THE

COME BACK WITH STRAIGHT

Flavor And Style IF YOU COULD WALK IN MY SHOES, LITERALLY YOU WOULD SEE THE DIFFERENT WORLDS AND DREAMS I HAVE BEEN. I FEEL THAT THE SNEAKERS ARE A METAPHOR FOR MY LIFE AND THE DIFFERENT JOURNEYS; I HAVE BEEN WALKED UPON AS A WORLD TRAVELER.

WORDS KISHON SPINGER PHOTOGRAPHY ARRON DUNWORTH GROOMING LAURA KAY HAIR PERRY MORGAN FASHION SEAN AZEEZ FASHION ASSISTANT DANNY WALKER

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FASHION Jacket SEAN SEUN Jumper KATIE EARY Shirt LOU DALTON Trouser UNCONDITIONAL LONDON Hats GOORIN BROTHERS

M MANY ARE VERY FAMILIAR WITH THE MEGA GROUP

The Black Eyed Peas. The group became a voice for the people. Not only did they make songs we could dance to but they also had lyrics with meaning and a message. We were all drawn to their different sound and captivating dance moves. Taboo was one of the group members who stood out for his rap flow, crazy dance moves and unique style.

Taboo was born Jaime Luis Gómez in Los Angeles California. Taboo’s love for performing started at very tender age “My love for music started at 5 years old with dance. Dance has always been my form of expression since I was a five-year-old kid. The person that brought that to the forefront,

as in me following my dreams and aspirations was my Grandma”. Taboo expressed that he used to perform for his grandma all the time in her living room; she gave him the confidence that he could be whatever he put his mind to. “I was performing for one person but she gave me the confidence and the spirit that if I can perform for one person and make them happy I knew that I could perform for hundreds of thousands of people in the future”.

From his grandma’s living room to the stage, Taboo knew he wanted to be a performer. His big break with the Black Eye Peas has given him opportunities of a lifetime, including performing at Super Bowl XLV, and FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, to winning six Grammy awards. Taboo is now a married man and father of three children. He is working on new projects, now a solo artist he wants his music to represent him as an individual. He has released two songs, Zombao in 2014 and TRANSM1T in 2015. Zombao was written as a reflection of his childhood and Mexican-American culture. “I wanted to release a song, that best represents me as an artist piggy backing off of the experience with my group and the song that best describes me as an individual artist is “Where’s the Love”, So I created a song called Trasm1t with that uplifting positive message, that would promote love. In the vid-

eo I wanted to showcase me as a dancer, because I haven’t done that in a long time”. In addition to his music, Taboo also acts. He has acting credits that date back to 2002. Taboo expressed that acting was always a huge interest for him. He would always take part in drama classes in high school. When he gained enough money, he invested in professional acting lessons.

Taboo’s career is still flourishing his love for fashion and unique style has not changed. Taboo describes his style as “…ultra magnetic. Magnetic with a personality that goes along with it, as far as flavor and flare. It is Hip Hop with a very couture feel. I really love sneakers; I’m a sneaker head. My outfit normally starts with the type of kicks I’m wearing, then everything comes together. I love rocking hats, such as fedoras. I feel like a lot of my inspiration comes from Michael Jackson the way he would push the envelope, he didn’t care what people thought. If you could walk in my shoes, literally you would see the different worlds and dreams I have been. I feel that the sneakers are a metaphor for my life and the different journeys; I have been walked upon as a world traveler”. Taboo’s flavor and style still has him on our radar, we are excited to see what else he will be working on in the future.

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FASHION Opposite Page: Scarf LOU DALTON Shirt and Coat JOSHUA KANE Suit JOSHUA KANE Glasses CELINE Turtle Neck TOPMAN

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FASHION Opposite Page: Trouser DOMINGO RODRIGUEZ T-Shirt UNCONDITIONAL Hat GOORIN BROTHERS Shoes GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Coat UNCONDITIONAL LONDON Bag COACH VINTAGE JACKET VINTAGE HAT Trousers LOU DALTON Shoes GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Glasses TOM FORD

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FASHION Left and Right: Jacket and Trouser UNCONDITIONAL LONDON Shirt and Jumper LOU DALTON Hat GOORIN BROTHERS

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FEATURE

BJ THE CHICAGO KID:

&

THE SOUL OF THE CHURCH

THE STORY OF THE STREETS. WORDS TERRON AUSTIN

PHOTOGRAPHY SHAWNY OCHO

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FEATURE

BJ THE CHICAGO KID IS A NATURAL.

BORN BRYAN SLEDGE, 31, he’s soulful

and riveting in his approach to music.

It’s no surprise he got his start like many Black American vocal artists singing in the Church. At age 19, he had his official gig as a background vocalist for urban contemporary gospel sibling singing duo Mary Mary.

While remaining grounded in his faith, he made the decision to leave his Chicago hometown and actively pursue music full-time. Hustling to write songs and contribute vocals quickly paid off as he lent his lyrics skills and vocal talent to other R&B and gospel names like Crystal Aikin, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Lalah Hathaway and Joe. In 2012 BJ released Pineapple Now-Laters, the singer/songwriter’s ode to both the vintage and modern musical styles he effortlessly embodies. Having worked with

Stevie Wonder on A Time to Love, BJ’s name quickly attracted the attention of Motown Records.

Still keeping the Chicagoan edge, soul, and state of mind, he released a mixtape entitled The M.A.F.E. Project in the fall of 2014. In 2015 things really began to take off as BJ the Chicago Kid’s collaborations with Jill Scott, Dr. Dre and Kehlani all surfaced from tracks found on the project like the appropriately titled “Church,” “That Girl” and “The Resume.” His goal now is to make sure he uses his name, his success, and the gift of music as a means to change the city he calls home for the good.

In 2016 he released a digital tribute to soul multi-instrumentalist D’Angelo’s iconic Voodoo album on its 16th anniversary, so it’s easy to see BJ knows what soul is all about by studying those who’ve come before him. In mid-February, BJ offered up In My Mind, the critically acclaimed major label debut the world has been waiting on brimming with the soul of his church roots and the near 15-year grind from his story of street life in Chicago.

No stranger to hard work and a little blood-sweat-and-tear, BJ the Chicago Kid represents the south side of Chicago and the soulful stories of life, love and lessons learned that it renders up oh so well.

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The Art Of Storytelling With Tobias Truvillion

The award-winning actor, philanthropist and newest cast member of Fox TV’s “Empire” discusses his complex character and his passion projects outside of work as he discover what it’s like to join the number one rated show and hints at how he throws down in the kitchen.

WORDS TERRON AUSTIN

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IT IS NEVER EASY JOINING A CLOSE

knit, but dysfunctional television family. Actor and former Ford model Tobias Truvillion isn’t just the new kid on the set of FOX’s hit series “Empire.” In fact, he fits right in with all the drama that ensues from week to week.

The 40-year-old Queens, New York native swiftly sprang into action this May as “Derek Major (aka D-Major)”, but his sudden affection for the show’s golden child Jamal Lyon (played by Jussie Smollett) is what shocked viewers right out of their seats. Truvillion says, as a straight man, an artist, and a supporter of those overcoming oppression it was important to play the role. “These are stories of people that are real. They deserve a voice,” says Truvillion. “It’s important for me as an artist to constantly work and push myself. Thank God for a platform like “Empire” that’s bold enough and willing enough to go there.”

Truvillion’s transition into the role of “D-Major” has been simplified by his ability to select diverse, complex and challenging roles. However, Truvillion says the work of playing a new love interest wasn’t all that difficult. “The love scenes can always be awkward and weird because you’re in the room with thirty to forty people just standing there - the camera men, lighting people and all kinds of folks,” says Truvillion. “You’re trying to build this 76

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chemistry in a short amount of time, but I think we did a really good job at it.”

tion drama looks into America’s first public housing projects during the 1980s crack cocaine epidemic.

Doing more than just a good job is what gained him the role. Truvillion’s impressive résumé includes many captivating TV, film, and theatrical productions.

His first notable acting role was that of “Shango” in the in the musical Oya. This stellar performance

Today, while he’s making culturally ground-breaking moves on one of the most popular series to hit TV, Truvillion has his eyes set on more producing and big plans for the inner city youth of Newark, NJ involved in his year-round drama program at the Dr. Marion A. Bolden Center. “It starts with the grassroots projects in our communities,” says Truvillion of the Advantage Arts Program for Youth where his wife Michelle Morgan-Truvillion assists him along with the media arts program’s director Rodney Gilbert. “That’s where you can blend the fibers of our nation. We get in there and create dialogue on whatever they want to talk about.”

“These are stories of people that are real.

They deserve a voice” earned Truvillion the prestigious Vivian Robinson AUDELCO Recognition Awards (colloquially, “The Viv”) for Best Male in a Musical. From there, Truvillion landed roles in Hitch alongside Will Smith, Brooklyn’s Finest and Blue Bloods in addition to his 39TH NAACP Image Award nomination in the Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series category for his portrayal of Vincent Jones on ABC’s One Life to Live. In 2015, he completed filming in The Products of the American Ghetto, the in-produc-

When he’s not busy making magic on the big and small screens and leaving a lasting imprint on the youth in his community through his philanthropic and instructional media arts work, Truvillion might also be found in the kitchen sharpening his skills there. “People don’t know this, but I’m a really good cook,” says Truvillion. Decidely not tooting his own horn, Truvillion says his signature dish is quite basic, but still incredibly delicious. “I’m going to set it off like this so you know where I stand. (laughs) I make a mean pot of greens. If you know a brother can make a good pot of greens then you know it’s on.”

For more of our exclusive Q&A with actor Tobias Truvillion, visit us online now at BleuMagazine.com.

FEATURE

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THE HUMANS

Keenan D. Williams PHOTOGRAPHY RAYMOND EUGENIO

What do you do?

Build products that expedite old and manual process in Real Estate. Currently, Co-Founder of REZI a marketplace for rental properties where my team and I are developing a digital landlord platform, which enables perspective tenants to apply for rental properties entirely on their phone in less than 30 minutes.

How long have you been working in real estate?

My entire career, seven years. After graduating from Florida A&M University, I was a bond trader for six months, hated it then went into commercial real estate finance.

What is the idea behind REZI? The vision for REZI is to create a digital experience for rental tenants and property owners.

For tenants they will be able to complete every step in the rental application and approval process from their phone within 30 minutes or less.

For property owners, REZI will be their decision engine and manage every aspect of running a property, from sourcing and vetting tenants, to moving them in, managing payment collection and repairs/maintenance issues. We are focused on turning the DIY (do it yourself) property owner into simply an investor.

When was REZI started?

Fall 2015 Is there an app?

No, we are a web platform optimized for any mobile platform. They app will be developed next year once the platform is on version 2.

How does the process work?

A prospective tenant finds a property they like on REZI’s rental marketplace, they will then be able to immediately apply, process all background checks in real time, be approved, instantly rent based on pictures and video. Or set up a showing time to view the space then while in the space our customers can “Instantly Rent” and set a key pick up date. No broker fees or inflated background check prices. Once moved in, all customers are able to communicate with REZI for any issues through our Tenant Dashboard.

What is the benefit of a digital landlord?

Access to a 24/7 available service platform that responds to all issues within a 24 hour period, is a seamless process and doesn’t require users to deal with phone calls to a call center, it’s digital.

In what ways does REZI make renting easier?

Our entire rental application and approval pro78

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cess is completed within 30 minutes on your phone, and if you want, REZI approved users can click “Instant Rent” to lock in a unit they like without having to visit multiple location and deal with brokers.

What is the demographic for your clientele?

All renters from 22 to 45yr old, employed, who prefer to use apps like Uber, Seamless, Air BnB, Netlfix, Amazon etc.

What is the best thing about what you do?

We’re making renting as easy as buying products off Amazon.

What has been your biggest obstacle to overcome on your journey to success?

Building the best team that is balanced, 100% bought in, shares the same culture of hustle and teamwork.

What has been your proudest moment thus far?

Building version 1 of our platform after winning a Microsoft Pitch competition where the judge told us REZI is too ambitious “you guys are trying to boil the ocean”.

THE HUMANS

Rhonesha Byng PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL COOPER FOR BY WAY OF BROOKLYN

Rhonesha Byng created the Her Agenda website to keep millennial women at the forefront of everything that is going on in the world around them. Highlighting women who are headed for success in their fields Rhonesha is changing the meaning of role models.

What is her Agenda?

The site is a digital media platform working to bridge the gap between ambition and achievement for millennial women. Her Agenda recognizes women who are doing great works but aren’t always widely recognized because they aren’t gracing the covers of magazines.

When did you start?

The initial Launch of site was in 2008 What is the best thing about what you do?

Anything I think of can become reality. I use the power of media and the force of my ambition to make the world a better place for millennial women as they grow as professional and powerful women.

Who is impacted the most from what you are doing with Her Agenda?

Millennial women who are looking to make it to the top of their industries. We are providing the inspiration they need by showcasing real women who are in positions of power, and we provide the access to resources and opportunities to help them to become like those women.

We often say...how can you be in the room if you don’t know the room exists? We aim to be a source for women looking for their next networking event, conference, or simple practical advice for career growth and development.

What has been your biggest obstacle to overcome on your journey to success?

Allowing myself to think bigger than my circumstances. Sometimes I stop myself because I don’t have certain things but when you reach for more you get more. I have to get out of my own way and that’s something I work on every day.

What has been your proudest moment thus far?

My proudest moment is yet to come. I never get comfortable with my achievements. It’s bad because we should celebrate our wins, but my vision and goals are so huge and I’ve only scratched the surface. Something recent though that I’ve been smiling about a lot is the fact that I got the chance to speak at The White House about what issues millennial women care about.

Later this year there will be a re-launch of the website allowing many more features and way for the viewers to be more interactive. Her Agenda will be a media empire servicing ambitious millennial women with the content, resources, and empowerment they need to become accomplished women.

Could you see yourself doing anything else?

I probably would have been a marine biologist.

The oceanic life has always seemed very fascinating, but this is what I chose.

What are your future plans for Her Agenda?

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THE HUMANS

Obinna Onungwa Ever found yourself in a position where you need a barber in a short amount of time and although there may be many spots around it doesn’t mean that they are reliable or even up to your standards. Just like founder Obinna “Obi” Onungwa, most of us have had our own trial and error when it comes to finding the right barber. With the launch of CUE, this process just got a little easier. Through the app, clients can search barbers, set appointments, look at previous works by the barbers as well as see prices and pay.

Where are you from and when did you come to New York?

Born and raised in DC. Went to University of Maryland college park where I studied African History. Like most people in DC, I thought I wanted to become a lawyer. After moving to New York and working in the finance industry I was burnt out. Started working for a startup in DC called Living Social covering the Atlanta area which is the black hair care capital, which is when I began to realize how this industry was continuing to grow.

Were you ever a barber or did you ever had interest in becoming one?

I was never a barber. It was never really my thing.

I was exposed to this industry while working with Living Social which was a key turning point for me and also is a relationship that it built from trust. Many people cannot live without their hairstylist or barbers because they literally shape your images and empower us to go into the world and do the things that we do.

How did you come up with the idea for CUE? While I was on a trip to Ghana I begin to think of idea and as I was standing on one of the beautiful beaches there I decided that when I returned to New York that I would go for it. We realized that many barbers and hairdressers are behind when it comes to web development and social media. The initial idea was to pioneer barbering and ultimately hairstyling altogether.

How instrumental were you in developing the CUE app?

I definitely had to bring in some help to write the codes and for the entire developing process. I immediately cut a search through my professional and academic network to find people to pitch this idea to. I finally came across a guy by the name of Von who was based in DC at the time. After linking up we started to build.

When was it launched?

In June of 2015 we launched the most basic prototype of CUE. We are now in the process of designing our latest version which Is CUE V2 80

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(version 2) which will have roughly a thousand barbers around the country providing their own feedback. We are working on improving what will be valuable to the barbers and the clients as we move forward.

What are some of the reviews you’ve gotten from the product?

The reviews that we receive are very mixed being that CUE isn’t a finished product there is always room for improvement.

In the future will there be an extension to cue for hairdressers?

Yes. The next version will be sort of an introduction to that extension. That is supposed to happen sometime this summer.

THE HUMANS

Anticia Whitehead Anticia is a woman of the tech and business world and has been dominating since the beginning. From the start of her career she has known what she brings to the industry with all of her knowledge. This year she added to her extensive rèsumè by developing an app that connects people over a great cocktail.

What do you do?

I am a software engineer and business builder and most currently founder of the new iPhone application “Drinkspottr” that allows people to connect over a good cocktail.

How long did it take you to launch the app?

The app was launched in Feb of 2016. From concept to launch all together it took about two years. Most times the process of developing an app doesn’t take quite as long but at some point we had a pivotal moment. So it started as one thing and ended up as something else. Drinkspottr initially started out as Wine Rat. How does Drinkspottr differ from other apps with the same intention?

It started out as sort of a YELP for drinking; for people to be able to see ratings and reviews for the best bars in the area. Then we wanted to narrow the focus. Where is everyone? It was no longer about being at the best bar anymore.

It was about connecting with people. When you log into the app there’s a map and you can see people and their location as oppose to yours.

You can actually see them and message them. It took a while for us to get the messaging feature but that was one thing that I really worked at.

The messaging feature took it to another level.

What was one of the hardest things to deal with during this process?

The hardest thing was staying with it. When you reach certain obstacles and they most definitely will come. I was the main engineer writing the code and it became a very big job. There were several times I wanted to give up. Some people believe in putting out a very generic version of an app. When it comes to launching an app or website you only get one chance to do it right so I wanted to create a more robust product with great features.

What is your proudest accomplishment thus far?

Some years ago I founded a software consulting firm. I was asked to join a health care company who at the time had little to no growth. When I joined there were about three employees and the company had negative cash flow. After six years the company grew to over 100 employees and now had multi-millions in revenue. So when I finally did say my farewell it made me feel great because I went into this with complete uncertainty.

What does the future look like for you?

I like building products that people will like, so there will definitely be more in the tech world, whether it’s another app or some kind of software. At this point of my career I’m looking to be a great mentor and share much of the knowledge that I have gained over the years. I’ll do more in the media and tech world, but in ways that empower people to be more successful like me.

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SHADES OF DEBONAIR FASHION RONI FRANÇOIS PHOTOGRAPHY DERRICK LIPSCHITZ FASHION ASSISTANT TERENCE B. MCNEALY PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT PIERRE LOUIS GROOMING ASARI SUZANNE

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Suit DAVID HART Shirt WHYRED Shoes NOAH WAXMAN Bracelets GILES & BROTHER Pocket Square RALPH LAUREN

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Blazer J. HILBURN T-Shirt SLATE & STONE Trousers TOMMY HILFIGER Shoes NOAH WAXMAN Sunglasses RAY-BAN Handbag DR. MARTENS Belt RALPH LAUREN

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Suit KENNETH NING Shirt WHYRED Sneakers CONVERSE Scarf J. CREW

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Blazer and Shirt J. HILBURN Sweater MATIERE Pants J. CREW Tie DAVID HART Pocket Square RALPH LAUREN Shoes NOAH WAXMAN Handbag DR. MARTENS Glassses RAY-BAN

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Blazer and Vest HYDROGEN Shirt J. HILBURN Denim Pants CULT OF INDIVIDUALITY Shoes DR. MARTENS Bracelet GILES & BROTHER Pocket Square THE TIE BAR

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Suit KENNETH NING Shoes FLORESHEIM

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Blazer ZARA Shirt DAVID HART Trousers and Socks SLATE & STONE Shoes FLORESHEIM X ESQUIVEL Pocket Square J. HILBURN Bag COACH Belt RALPH LAUREN Hat STETSON

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Suit and Tie DAVID HART Shirt and Socks SLATE & STONE Sneakers CONVERSE Bag ENTER Ring ALDO ACCESSORIES Bracelets TRITON AND GILES & BROTHER Tie Bar THE TIE BAR

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Blazer and Suit J. HILBURN Tie DAVID HARD Tie Bar THE TIE BAR

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THE APPLE DOESN’T FALL FAR FROM THE TREE

How Martavis Bryant’s drug addiction to Marijuana continues to be a problem in the NFL WORDS RAYMOND MORA PHOTOGRAPHY KYLE GIANGRANDE FASHION RACHEL SCHOENBAUM

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PITTSBURGH STEELERS WIDE RECEIVER MARTAVIS BRYANT is widely known as one of the team’s top

playmakers. His talent, which has seen the 24-yearold rack up 76 receptions and an average of 17.3 yards per catch in 21 career games, comes tempered though by a drug abuse problem that the league has become rife with in recent seasons.

“It’s great being under Coach Tomlin,” Bryant says in an interview about his current team. He’s the best coach I’ve ever had. Especially when I went through my suspension year and I went through my rehab program. Coach Tomlin was just proud of me for making a man’s decision and knew I needed help — that I was willing to go get help. It’s just an honor for him to have my back and support me while I was going through that process.” But sadly, it looks like there might be a repeat of that soon.

Heading into the 2015 season the NFL had 22 players suspended for substance abuse, Bryant was one of them. In fact, in his career Bryant has been benched for 20 games due to substance abuse, forfeiting over

$800,000 in fines over the span of his career. Those are sobering statistics. But so are Bryant’s achievements.

“I see myself at the top and being one of the best to ever do it,” the troubled star says of his aspirations. “I’m not saying I’m there yet, I’m not saying I’m cocky or anything, but if I know if I continue to work hard and continue to do the things necessary for me to keep improving my game, then I can be one of the best to do it.” And there’s actual proof to back those claims up.

At 6 foot 4 inches tall, the wide receiver just came off a season of 765 receiving yards and six touchdowns.

And this is even with his handicap of being suspended for four games. In two seasons he has scored 14 touchdowns which is more than any other fourth round pick in NFL history. In 2014 NFL analyst Mike Maycock acknowledged the duality of the Clemson ACC recruit’s situation.

“Bryant has a crazy wide receiver skill set, but he’s a one-year wonder,” he said at the time. “This guy has some scary talent, but also some immaturity issues.”

For most, those issues revolved around the substance abuse. But the current political climate does beg the question of whether the league should be reexamining their marijuana policy all together.

23 states have laws that legalize weed usage to some degree and of those, four states have legalized it for recreational usage.Other states are seemingly on the path to decriminalization by replacing penalties with fines. Should the NFL follow suit?

It’s a conversation worth having but for now the policy stands meaning that sportsmen like Bryant and Cleveland Browns’ Josh Gordon must abide by it or rack up time on the bench. They are ruining their chance of being a great wide receiver in the NFL doing marijuana. The league is doing justice with the policy, but it’s up to the player’s decision on how they want their career to be. B

“ I see myself at the top and being one of the best to ever do it,I’m not saying I’m there yet, I’m not saying I’m cocky or anything, but if I know if I continue to work hard and continue to do the things necessary for me to keep improving my game, then I can be one of the best to do it. “

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SPOTLIGHT

LOCATION 60-62 OLD Compton Street, London W1D 4UG www.balans.co.uk

What to eat late For the love of all things London!

Balans Soho Society stays open late for the beautiful people who like to eat.

WORDS DÉVON CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON

The Old Compton Street location is definitely a scene for those that want to be seen. However, beyond the superficial hair-tosses and smizing (super model work!) there’s a genius menu that is the true star. For brunch, lunch, or dinner this eatery serves up the perfect bite.

London nights are filled with party people and tourists. Balans Soho Society is the go-to spot to pre-game with signature cocktails served by sexy bartenders. Even the hosts that greet you after crossing the invisible velvet rope are eye candy.

If you love a late night/early morning fancy egg like we do, then we suggest The High Society Eggs Benedict. The poached eggs are topped with lobster, avocado and bacon. Literally, a party in your mouth.

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SPOTLIGHT

Not just another burger spot From a food desert a decade ago to a culinary destination today, Row House is upping the ante for Harlem dining.

WORDS DÉVON CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON

Above 110th Street along the Frederick Douglas Boulevard corridor in Harlem USA, dubbed restaurant row, there are plenty of places to grab a quick bite. But few offer what Row House has brought to the table. With a well dressed and groomed wait staff, the recently opened hot spot serves up a seasonal menu with all the trimmings of a downtown brasserie.

Getting it right in Harlem is no easy feat. Everyone is a critic and has no problem letting his or her opinion fall on anyone within earshot. Luckily the leaders of the new uptown cool are pleased with the chef curated menu that celebrates traditional fare of the neighborhood with a few interesting modifications.

Take your new hot date, catch up with a friend, or treat your mom to brunch.

Lucky for us The Row House Burger is on all three menus. There’s nothing like a nice juicy grass-fed burger topped with grilled onions, tomato jam, and garlic aioli with a side of fries. Eat up!

LOCATION 2128 Frederick Douglass Blvd New York, NY 10026 rowhouseharlem.com

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AirBnB

Festival

Puerto Ricans

Bbq

Fishing

Radiohead

Beach

Flights

Roadtrip

Beach Balls

Frank Ocean

Sandals

Beer

Game of Trones

Shorts

Beyoncé Formation Tour

Gay Pride

Sixpack

Bikini

GoPro

Snatched Season

Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival

Harlem

Spa

Brunch

Headphones

Strip Clubs

Cameras

Hunting

Sundress

Captian America

Iron Man

Sunglasses

Carnivals

Jason Bourne

Summer Festivals

Central Park

Joy Ride

Summer Fridays

Concerts

King Push

Summer Jam

Coney Island

Latex

Tanning

Commando

Linen

Tattoos

Cookout

London Men’s Fashion Week

Tesla Model 3

CrossFit

Memorial Day Weekend

THOTS

Dirtbikes

MLB

Times Square

DM’s

NBA Playoffs

Topless

Drinkspottr

Olympics

Toughmudder

Drones

Parades

Uber

EDC

Party

Vacation

Eyecandy

Piercings

Yacht Parties

Fancy

Pools

Yoga

MAGAZINE

ICON

RUSSELL SIMMONS: HIP HOP’S INFLUENTIAL BUSINESSMAN

WORDS DOMINIQUE M. CARSON

Russell Simmons is the godfather of modern hip-hop culture. Before Sean “Diddy” Combs launched Sean John, there was Phat Farm and Baby Phat. Before Sean “Jay Z” Carter served as the president of Def Jam Recordings, Simmons started the company. Before Damon Dash started his American Nu magazine, the greatest hip-hop businessman founded the online hiphop site Global Grind. It is a varied résumé with other notable credits like producing The Nutty Professor and kicking off major projects like Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry Jam where he introduced entertainers including Martin Lawrence, Bernie Mac and Chris Tucker to much larger audiences.

Simmons’ career in music began as a concert promoter while attending City College in Harlem.

Back then, to get a jump on the competition, the young entrepreneur launched Rush Productions, a film and television production company as a way to promote concerts in the city, but promoting was not enough. In 1983, Simmons linked up with record producer Rick Rubin to establish Rush

Artist Management and Def Jam Recordings.

Together, the pair helped launch the careers of Whodini, LL Cool J, Public Enemy, Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, the Beastie Boys, and many others.

Three years later, the hard work started paying off. In 1986, Def Jam got their first groundbreaking hit with Run DMC’s “My Adidas”.

The success of the song lead to an endorsement deal from the multimillion-dollar footwear company. Fashion experts point to that deal as the beginning of the rise of streetwear in fashion, but it also was the first time a hip-hop group was given a million-dollar endorsement deal.

That same year Simmons continued flourishing by signing a major corporation deal with CBS Records (CBS was later acquired by Sony) to distribute the music. In November, with the deal in place, the Beastie Boys released their monster album Licensed to Ill, which became the first rap album to dominate the charts.

In 1988 Rubin left Def Jam, Simmons pressed on with a new team adding acts to the including

Ludacris, Foxy Brown, and DMX to the stable.

After over a decade of leading one of the most influential record labels he took a step back, selling his share of the label to Universal Music Group.

Simmons is also not afraid to voice his opinions on political and environmental issues, which exemplifies his role as an activist. In 2015, he wrote a thorough letter to presidential candidate, Donald Trump about his unwise proposal to ban Muslim immigrants from entering the United States.

Today, Simmons encourages others to pursue their dreams in music and entrepreneurship including his nieces Angela and Vanessa Simmons, and nephew Diggy Simmons. The three are following their uncle’s example by launching a clothing line and participating in other projects affiliated with the entertainment industry.

Simmons’ work is multifaceted and remains relevant, which is why he is still plays an influential role in American culture.

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