Brutha Summer 2014 Issue #9

SPRING SUMMER2014 2014ISSUE ISSUE8 9

KNOWLEDGE, CULTURE, & STYLE FOR THE MODERN CARIBBEAN MALE

THEBODY ISSUE J IMMY MAC KE Y

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issue 9

BRUTHA_CONTENTS

06 EDITOR’S LETTER 07 CREDITS 08 CONTRIBUTORS

art & culture

lifestyle

44 FEEDING ME

Let’s Have Some Salmon!

10 POWER & MONEY

10 Must Reads before Following

Your Dream!

feature

40 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Mixing it Up with QPid.

12 SHE SAYS – HE SAYS

Zakiya & Darnell on couples and their finances.

14 CREATING THE BALANCE

Breaking up isn’t easy.

By David Wygant

46 Strong & Fit: Jimmy Mackey Brings

A New Kind of Fitness

outro 59 MAN ON THE RISE

Super Transformation: Kenny St. John.

16 WORK IT

Is Your Ego The Problem?

64 FEMME FATALE

Bold Beauty: Experience

Alexandra Pelanne.

fashion

68 CRUISE CONTROL ​I’ve got a crush on you:

The 2014 BMW X6!

18 Summer Heat on the Beaches of

The Bahamas.

32 Get Ready for Fall Attire with Diana Owens.

70 BRUTHAMAN

It’s okay to feel your feelings!

By Mastin Kipp

grooming & beauty 35 MR. FITNESS

The Bodies we love this Summer.

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BRUTHA_EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR’S LETTER

To my Brutha,

Growing up I don’t recall ever having to watch what I ate, being compelled to exercise more nor timid about what I looked like on the outside. I lived on a small island about 7 miles long called Bimini in The Bahamas. As you may not know Bahamian diets contain huge amounts of starch, cholesterol and carbs. However, nowadays with so many health concerns and new diseases many persons are working hard to achieve “a body.” Albeit, I think it’s more for superficial reasons, such as scoring a hubby or taking “selfies,” than health concerns but that’s just me.

I do think when the Gods were passing out muscles and abs I was somewhere downing a vodka tonic and conch salad. Nonetheless, we’ve brought you: The Body Issue.

In this issue of the World’s Greatest resource for the modern male, we’re featuring the bodies we love plus more. On the cover, you’ll find Former Pro Basketball Star & Fitness Extraordinaire, Jimmy Mackey. Jimmy is a Bahamian who has been exposed to many different sports and techniques. He now owns a personal training studio, MacFit 360, here in Nassau. Also featured is Bahamian Calypso Artist, Qpid; while our Man On The Rise, Kenny St. John of Kooking With Kenny shows off his super body transformation; and a look at a bold beauty with a body to show off, Ms. Alexandra Pelanne of Freeport Bahamas. Plus, enjoy great articles on amazing books to help achieve your dreams, find out whether your ego is killing your dating life and why it’s important to plan finances with your spouse.

A wise man one said, “Don’t wait for the world to recognize your greatness, live it and let the world catch up to you.”Remember, Brutha Magazine is and will always be here for you as your motivator and resource to living an awesome life.

Don’t forget to share this with another Brutha.

Love your Brutha,

TRAVIS T. SWEETING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF travis@bruthamagazine.com

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Editor-In-Chief Guest Editor Copy Correspondents

Travis T. Sweeting Kenny St. John Craig Bain Mastin Kipp Zakiya Muwwakkil Travis T. Sweeting Darnell Lamont Walker David Wygant Diana Owens

Contributing Photographers

Anita Clare Seth London

Art Director

Keisha Oliver

Web Editor Advertising Sales

Travis T. Sweeting advertise@bruthamagazine.com Phone: 242-464-5782

Publisher

Clask.Ic Publications P.O Box SS-5536 Nassau, Bahamas

www.bruthamagazine.com This Magazine is published quarterly. No part of Brutha Magazine may be reproduced in any form by any means without prior written consent from Clask.ic Publications. We reserve the right to edit, rewrite, or refuse material and we are not responsible for products that appear in this publications. Š 2014 Brutha Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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BRUTHA_THE CONTRIBUTORS

DIANA OWENS

ANITA CLARE

SETH LONDON

Chicago bred; Diana Owens is a 27 year old emerging wardrobe stylist from the city’s South side. She is currently working as a personal stylist and image consultant for a few business professionals throughout the city. Diana recently received a Bachelor’s degree in both Journalism and Sociology, but has chosen to seek a career in what drives her most; fashion. She is a strong believer that everyone has their own style, but not everyone knows how to convey it.

She prides herself in being able to allow a client to stay true to themself, while elevating their personal style. Diana feels that “in fashion, you have to know who you are, what you like, what compliments you, and make it all work with the perfect ensemble.”

Anita C is not only a photographer but an artist. Envy, as many of her clients called her, is a graphic artist, clothing stylist, theatrical makeup artist, music video Director and Semi-Pro Photo Editor wrapped in to one.

Sexual. Intimate. Personal. Gritty. Raw. These are all accurate ways to capture the emotions of Seth London’s photography and who he is as a photographer.

London specializes in male beauty and male fashion, and his work has appeared in Paper, Client, Oh La La, Bleu Mag, Bello Mag, Seventh Man, The Fashion Journal, Nylon Guy Mexico, Beautiful Mag, and The Source. He has photographed a range of celebrities, most recently Fat Man Scoop, Ciara and Travis Porter, Q form day 26. As well as models from of American Next Top Models and two designer’s look books form Project runway.

Growing up with an eye for art, being different and establishing crazy, creative ideas was never an issue for her. Anita surrounded herself with positive and inspiring people. This young woman gets her motivation by just looking at the simplest things; establishing new and electrifying ideas for her photo shoots leaving her colleagues and viewers wanting more. She loves doing this and would not change it for the world.

Advertise Here!

Contact us today! advertise@bruthamagazine.com Phone: 242-464-5782 Clask.Ic Publications P.O Box SS-5536 Nassau, Bahamas

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brutha SPRING 2014 ISSUE 8

When should you propose to her?

KNOWLEDGE, CULTURE, & STYLE FOR THE MODERN CARIBBEAN MALE

How To Wear This Season’s Best Looks!

m u s i c f e s t i v THEa BUILDUP l Alpha Male, Maybe?

Getting Abs & How To Keep Them Through Summer!

THE MARK ROBERTS STORY

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Email: mail@bruthamagazine.com Tweet: @BruthaMagazine

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BRUTHA_POWER & MONEY

10 Books Every Man Should Read Before Going After His Dream.

International Motivational Speaker, Les Brown said this best, “Decide today to make your future brighter than your past. Become still and think about what you want to have more of in your life, or what you value the most in your life right now. Commit yourself to making this a huge priority. Where your attention goes, your energy flows.”

As someone who is interested in making his dreams reality, you should be a reader. Books offer us way more than television or in person conversations. A great book is more than able to take an idea, wrap us up into it and broaden our mind beyond the scope of our existence. So, before going after your dream, spend some time each day reading – this could be in your particular field of interest or a motivational read. Here are 10 great picks to help you get started: • How to trade a longhaul career for short work bursts and frequent “mini-retirements”.

• What the crucial difference is between absolute and relative income.

The Alchemist

By Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho continues to change the lives of its readers forever. With more than two million copies sold around the world, The Alchemist has established itself as a modern classic, universally admired. Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the magical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. The story of the treasures Santiago finds along the way teaches us, as only a few stories can, about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, above all, following our dreams.”

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The 4-Hour Workweek

By Timothy Ferriss

Whether you are an overworked employee or an entrepreneur trapped in your own business, this book is the compass for a new and revolutionary world. Join Tim Ferriss as he teaches you: • How to outsource your life to overseas virtual assistants for $5 per hour and do whatever you want.

• How blue-chip escape artists travel the world without quitting their jobs.

• How to eliminate 50% of your work in 48 hours using the principles of a forgotten Italian economist.

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• How to train your boss to value performance over presence, or kill your job (or company) if it’s beyond repair.

• What automated cashflow “muses” are and how to create one in 2 to 4 weeks.

• How to cultivate selective ignorance - and create time - with a low information diet.

• What the management secrets of Remote Control CEOs are • How to get free housing worldwide and airfare at 50–80% off.

• How to fill the void and create a meaningful life after removing work and the office

You can have it all.Really.

The Mis-Education of the Negro

By Carter G. Woodson

Noting that AfricanAmerican contributions “were overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them,”… the material that makes up The MisEducation of the Negro was originally a series of speeches and essays delivered and written

by Woodson in the late 1920s and early 1930s, but which he collected into book form in 1933.

Decoded

By Jay-Z

Decoded is a book like no other: a collection of lyrics and their meanings that together tell the story of a culture, an art form, a moment in history, and one of the most provocative and successful artists of our time.”

Books offer us way more than television or in person conversations.

SOURCE: AMAZON.COM

Steve Jobs

By Walter Isaacson

Based on more than forty interviews with Jobs conducted over two years—as well as interviews with more than a hundred family members, friends, adversaries, competitors, and colleagues—Walter Isaacson has written a riveting story of the rollercoaster life and searingly intense personality of a creative entrepreneur whose passion for perfection and ferocious drive revolutionized six industries: personal computers, animated movies, music, phones, tablet computing, and digital publishing.

Pour Your Heart Into It

By Howard Schultz

In Pour Your Heart Into It, CEO Howard Schultz illustrates the principles

that have shaped the Starbucks phenomenon, sharing the wisdom he has gained from his quest to make great coffee part of the American experience. Marketers, managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs will discover how to turn passion into profit in this definitive chronicle of the company that “has changed everything . . . from our tastes to our language to the face of Main Street.

The Promise of a Pencil

By Adam Braun

The Promise of a Pencil chronicles Braun’s journey to find his calling, as each chapter explains one clear step that every person can take to turn your biggest ambitions into reality, even if you start with as little as $25. His story takes readers behind the scenes with business moguls and village chiefs, world-famous celebrities and hometown heroes.

Driven by compelling stories and shareable insights, this is a vivid and inspiring book that will give you the tools to make your own life a story worth telling.

Do Cool Sh*t

By Miki Agrawal

In Do Cool Sh*t, serial social entrepreneur, angel investor, and all-around cool sh*t– doer Miki Agrawal shows how to start a successful company— from brainstorming to raising money to getting press without any connections—all while having a meaningful life!

With zero experience and no capital, Miki Agrawal opened WILD, a farm-to-table pizzeria in New York City and Las Vegas, partnered up in a children’s multimedia company called Super Sprowtz, and launched a patented high-tech underwear business called THINX. Miki has seen significant growth in her businesses.

She pulls back the curtain of how you can live out loud, honor your hunches, and leave nothing on the table.

Whether you’re a student with big aspirations or an experienced professional looking for new opportunities, Do Cool Sh*t will open your eyes, make you laugh, and give you the confidence to quit your day job, start your own business, and live happily ever after.

Men Cry In The Dark

By Michael Baisden

Men Cry In The Dark is an entertaining and realistic novel about fatherhood, interracial dating, and the fear of love and commitment from a man’s perspective.

Michael Baisden has courageously defied the stereotypes to prove once and for all that men love their children, cherish their women, and yes, even cry.

Ralph Ellison as one of the key writers of the century. The nameless narrator of the novel describes growing up in a black community in the South, attending a Negro college from which he is expelled, moving to New York and becoming the chief spokesman of the Harlem branch of “the Brotherhood”, and retreating amid violence and confusion to the basement lair of the Invisible Man he imagines himself to be. The book is a passionate and witty tour de force of style, strongly influenced by T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land, Joyce, and Dostoevsky.”

A great book is more than able to take an idea, wrap us up into it and broaden our mind beyond the scope of our existence.

Invisible Man

By Ralph Ellison

Invisible Man is a milestone in American literature, a book that has continued to engage readers since its appearance in 1952. A first novel by an unknown writer, it remained on the bestseller list for sixteen weeks, won the National Book Award for fiction, and established BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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BRUTHA_SHE SAYS

Zakiya Muwwakkil

How should finances be planned between a couple?

SHE SAYS

Love conquers all, one of those sappy clichés that we’ve all heard when it comes to matters of the heart. We are often told that looks fade, but it’s what’s inside that counts. That all might sound good but we all know it takes more than personality and a good heart to sustain a relationship.

For one, there’s this little thing called attraction and most of us would like to have that in our partners in one way or another. Then there are some that honestly feel that looks don’t matter and it just might be that you prefer someone with a sense of humor so witty that you constantly have your sides in stitches from all the laughter. Or maybe you’re a sapiosexual that absolutely needs your partner to match your level of intellectual acuity – anything less and your interest ceases to exist.

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All in all, humans are complex with a variety of needs and preferences that range from person to person and couple to couple. However, even in all our complexities, one thing still remains a leading factor of great importance in many relationships.

This thing can even go as far as making or breaking a relationship, as it is one of the most commonly sited reasons for divorce -- finances.

It is therefore safe to say that finances – with all of its power to shape and reshape the dynamics between a couple – should be discussed and planned freely, thoroughly, and honestly.

Note

In the beginning of relationships we are often so enamored with the excitement of new love that we overlook many of the quirks and kinks that our partners might display.

Characteristics that might normally annoy us if displayed by someone else, we sometimes deem as cute and unique about our partners.

It’s not that we don’t see these traits, it’s just that the infatuation we have is causing us to diminish their seriousness. It should be of no surprise that one of the things that often gets overlooked is money matters.

When starting a new relationship, it might feel a bit uncomfortable to come right out the gate discussing

finances, bank account summaries, and budgets. It may cause one partner to question the motive of the asker, in some way feeling that money is the more important than getting to know the person.

But touchy feelings aside, its never too soon to address the issue of finances, even if you address the matter indirectly. The easiest way to do this is to take note. Pay attention to details such as spending habits, attitude and language when referring to money, and even how others in your partner’s life approach them about money. Questions to consider while taking note: Does my partner spend frivolously?

Are they flashy and materialistic?

What is my partner passionate about spending money on? Have they mentioned saving for a goal or in general? Are they often broke or strapped for cash? Is he/she stingy and selfish when it comes to money? Do family, friends, or even acquaintances find themselves eager to always ask to borrow money from him/her?

These questions and others are key to ask yourself through careful observation of your partner. Once you get to the point when things are at a level where you two are comfortable enough to discuss financial matters, it’s time to plan.

Plan

As previously mentioned, relationships are about more than love, essentially, they are partnerships.

Although we want the emotionally involvement and intimacy, it’s safe to say that in some regards relationships (the more serious ones that involve cohabitation, joint bills, engagement/ marriage and family planning) are a lot like a business. In order for a business to properly function there must be key elements in place such as a vision, goals, a budget, and careful consideration of investments/risks (both time and financial based).

It might be beneficial to start by creating a personal plan with your own goals, vision, budget etc. This plan, although personal can also include your relationship and/or family vision. Once individual plans have been written, then exchange and come together to discuss goals that should remain personal and the ones to build on together. It is also imperative to develop new plans that combine both partner’s interests and that would be essential to the relationship.

Things to consider when developing a joint financial plan: Who takes on which roles and responsibilities? How much should be save from our income? What are the agreed upon uses for the emergency/ vacation fund? What are the shortterm (1 month-1 year) goals?

BRUTHA_HE SAYS

Share

Once the plans have been developed and even during the planning process, it is advisable that each partner be open to the idea of sharing. Again, discussing money matters can be a touchy and even uncomfortable subject. Sometimes individuals like to shy away from the real issues of money like excess spending or being broke, and it might often be hard to comprehend developing a plan with someone else.

This might be because for so long you have been use to handling your own finances and only had yourself to answer to.

The way one communicates (or lack thereof) can greatly affect how useful the financial plan is. It’s not enough to have a plan and not feel comfortable with implementing it because one partner feels the other is being unreasonable or overbearing when it comes to addressing finances. That’s why sharing openly and honestly is vital to not only keeping the finances in order but also the relationship. Because for many, the old saying is true, “ain’t no romance without finance.”

Darnell Lamont Walker

What are the intermediate (2-5 years) goals? What are the long-term (6-10+ years) goals? How should we manage our joint accounts?

HE SAYS

I once wrote, “It never made much sense to me to rush into anything that would involve me giving up half my shit. My shit meaning my property. The shit I brought, bought, and was given by my grandmother to make my cornbread better. It makes as much sense as your waiting for me to be the first to interact with those watching from the sidelines honestly attempting to make sense of my life. They won’t. They will look on as we do those standing in burning buildings, wondering why they jumped knowing they wouldn’t survive the fall.”

I’m very much a non-traditionalist, and this advice and information should be read with that in mind. Not all couples operate

like machines. At least not the machines made in some beautiful building in Silicon Valley. Some operate like the machines you find in a Flatbush Laundromat on a Sunday after all the grandmothers have beat it up for eating their change.

For those who operate as a machine built by Steve Jobs’ minions: Meet at the table, and see what the two of you bring to it. Your bills, your expenses, your income, your lives. When you get up from this table, hovering over these thick pieces of foolish debt, it should be decided that everything shared between you two should be covered by the money stuffed into an account you two march into Wells Fargo to open. There’s much gray area about what should be contributed to that account if one makes more than the other while typing away in a cubicle in a decent enough building. But f*ck that! You split it evenly and move forward. If one of you is upset because they make $50K less than the other and if being asked to split the bill evenly, one should get a better job.

The rest of the money is yours! You owe it to nobody for anything. You owe it to yourself to treat yourself.

when asked, and if never asked, never do it. We know money is the root of all evil, and we avoid it. If a bill is due and the wifi is turned off, pay it. In exchange for your good deed, make your partner treat you to a Five Guys little cheeseburger, a coconut water, and a frozen yogurt. Though there will be a $14 difference still owed to you, you’ll be fine with it, because money isn’t what you’re about! So I say f*ck planning finances. Just pay it when you can and live.

Again, this advice is gold, but biased. I don’t believe in individual financial planning, and will only enter a relationship with a woman who knows this much is true, and is prepared for the foolishness that will come of my financial ignorance. “Live free. Die poor.”

To those broken machines who only work when not in use: Throw the bills away and live the way you want. Contribute what’s asked, BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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BRUTHA_CREATING THE BALANCE

The old song still rings true from the 50s; “Breaking up is hard to do.”

Not only should we be aware of our own feelings at the time, but of our soon-to-be-ex’s also. And In a world full of cowards, there are things to keep in mind when you break up with someone.

story years ago where Sylvester Stallone broke up with a woman via FedEx. I laughed so hard when the story made it to the news, I created a new slogan for the company: “When you absolutely, positively have to break up overnight.”

First, never take the technology route. Do not text a breakup, e-mail a breakup, voicemail a breakup, Facebook a breakup, and don’t think about changing your Facebook status until you’ve told the your hurt former lover it’s over.

Here’s the deal: you’re dealing with another human. You’re dealing with someone you once had feelings for. You’re dealing with someone you should respect.

Too many people attempt to take the easy way out. I remember a

When breaking up with someone, you need to give them freedom to pursue a more fitting relationship.

Sting had it right all those years

ago, “when you love somebody, set them free.” But they also need to know why the relationship is over, they need closure, so it’s time you ‘fess up. Tell them honestly why it didn’t work out so they can learn from the experience.

Every relationship has valuable lessons we need to learn from so we can go on to have more successful, healthy relationships.

If we do not have the breakup talk face to face, being 100% authentic, then the other person will play the “what if” game forever and ever.

“What if I did this differently…”

“What if I did that differently…”

How To Break Up The Right Way

by David Wygant www.davidwygant.com

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“What if I didn’t say that…”

“What if I didn’t do that…”

Breaking up is really hard to do, but try to do it with no games, no BS, nothing. It’s about sitting the person down, and giving them the reasons why the relationship is not working out, so they can heal, move forward, and maybe develop a friendship with you in the future.

Breaking up is one of the best ways to really work on your communication skills, because if you can be a good breaker-upper, you’ll be a much better dater.

CongratulationsTomii Culmer M I S S U N I V E R S E B A H A M A S 2 014 BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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BRUTHA_WORK IT

Is Your [ Ego] Killing Your Dating Life?

by David Wygant

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The weekend is over and yes, my beloved Jets do suck. Sanchez is exactly what most USC quarterbacks are in the NFL, very mediocre. But today is not about why the Jets have gone bad.

Today is all about how your ego is killing your dating life.

And then you meet someone who turns you on more than anyone you’ve met in a long time. Then they don’t respond to an email right away.

Think first, how many times have you gotten too many emails? Then you don’t check for a few hours and they just get buried. Or you read an email, you smile, but you’re in the middle of doing something else at work and can’t respond?

distance.

We say to ourselves, “Fuck her, man, she didn’t text me back, I’ll go find someone else!”

Okay, great, go find someone else. Remember, you thought she was spectacular before.

Now you rationalize that she’s not that spectacular anymore. “oh, I didn’t really like her that much anyway.”

Many of you have egos that don’t allow you to meet new people. So many of you do not even realize how much your ego is stopping you from making changes in Shit happens. Stop standing on principle. your life that will bring more You might miss a connection. Your ego Yeah, you did, but you spend all of this happiness. gets in the way of so many great things. time convincing yourself that you didn’t, Your ego may be the sole reason you are alone right now. In life, we try to protect ourselves with our ego. We spend so much time worrying about everything; someone didn’t text me back quickly enough; someone didn’t email me back yet; someone hasn’t called me back!

If you meet someone and you have great chemistry, it’s worth it to lob in another text or email. You have to be willing to go the extra distance. If you don’t, you might miss out on something spectacular.

just because she wounded you and you want to save face. What are you saving face for? Lob in another email or text, or even call her up. She might say, “Oh my god, I forgot to respond, I am so sorry, I got so busy at work.”

The reason meeting new people and dating is so difficult is because we make it that hard. Our egos get in the way all the time. We just don’t go the extra

That ego kills you every time!

www.davidwygant.com

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Photographed by // Anita Clare at Towers of Cable Beach, Nassau, Bahamas MUA // Brush BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUETouch 2014 Makeup by Felicia “FeFe” Rolle

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

Female Model: Christabelle Izerbizva

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Female Model: Tierra Rolle // Swimwear: DKLYPSE Swimwear • Male Model: Georgino Bodie // Swimwear: Lee Gregory of Atlanta

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

Model: Christabelle Izerbizva

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Models: (Left to Right) Paul Whyms, Tierra Rolle, Georgino Bodie, R’Ceino Ewing, Alexandra Pelanne, Prince Sweeting Jr. Jarell Coakley, Christabelle Izerbizva, Crystal Glinton, Tevin Hudson

Model:s Crystal Glinton and Paul Whyms

BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Models: Christabelle Izerbizva and Price Sweeting Jr.

BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

Models: (Left to Right) Prince Sweeting Jr., Christabelle Izerbizva, Crystal Glinton, Georgino Bodie // Clothing: Step Up Fashion, Nassau Bahamas

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Models: (Left to Right) Alexandra Pelanne, Crystal Glinton, Tierra Rolle // Clothing: Step Up Fashion, Nassau Bahamas

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BRUTHA_FASHION

By Diana Owens

How To Transition Your Summer Wardrobe To Fall We wait all year long for summer just for it to leave us in a few short months. Quickly we become attached to our bright colors and prints, which makes it hard to let them go.

Transitioning into cooler temps can be made a little bit easier by including warm weather clothing in your wardrobe.

Keeping these pieces requires you to do one thing, layer.

Layering is a season-friendly concept that displays your style and resourcefulness; consider it seasonal recycling.

Practically anything goes when it comes to layering, but it’s all about the execution.

Knowing how to construct a look is essential, otherwise it will appear that you were indecisive about what to wear. Each piece must compliment another, which is why certain choices must be made pertaining to what sticks 32

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around for the autumn and what must be packed away.

Light weight cardigans, short sleeved shirts, tees, and chinos are all items that assist in a smooth transition. These items alone can create a stylish, season appropriate look; by simply layering the two shirts (in no particular order), followed by the cardigan, and topped off with a blazer and a pocket square. That summertime cuff in your chinos can remain as long as it’s accompanied by a textured sock and great pair of brogues.

The lightweight items that are carried over from your summer wardrobe can all fit into the style aesthetics of autumn by simply combining it with seasonal pieces. Wearing a short sleeved shirt with a denim

jacket, or a wool cardigan creates a seasonal look.

For a short time, shorts are even an option as long as you layer on top; blazers and waistcoats, sweaters, light jackets and scarves are all stylish options to make shorts appropriate for autumn.

How you accessorize the ensemble is essential as well. When the weather begins to cool it’s officially hat season. Sure you can also wear hats during the summer, but there’s just something about a hat in the fall that seems to mesh so well because of the heavier textures and rich colors. Remember, the hat doesn’t make the outfit; it’s just an accessory to help compliment it.

A successful look will be visually appealing whether you wear a hat or not.

Colors. Let’s not forget about colors.

They are very much a factor in any season.

Soft, warm weather palettes will compliment the rich tones of the autumn.

Any neon must go, their time has passed. Hues such as powder blue, mint green, salmon, and lilac can be worn with their darker counterparts to welcome the season. Execution is essential, remember this. Wearing pale yellow pants cuffed, with a pair of burnished double-strap monks, a white buttondown shirt, and a plaid charcoal grey blazer is a great example of fall style with a hint of summer.

Autumn is a season where style is really displayed.

There are so many options when choosing

a look because it has to be weather appropriate.

Besides shoes, pants, and shirts, there are other things to be considered, like outwear. Outwear matters.

Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. It’s not just a jacket; it’s an essential piece in your wardrobe that helps pull the entire look together. Just like the hat, it does not make the look, it only compliments it.

Each piece you wear plays a part in your overall appearance, which is why you must be conscious of the summer garments you choose to carry into fall.

Crossing over is not always easy, it takes some thought, especially when you partake in seasonal recycling. If you remain conscious of color, texture, layering, and accessories then making the seasonal transition should be a cinch.

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request: Build it. The CLA has brought an International sensation to fruition with nothing lost In translation, from its diamond-block grille to its frame less door glass to its sweeping taillamps.

Dream up

The world is your playground.

Make it yours. See yourself in the car of the future. Now.

The all new 2014 CLA Concept Style Coupe set the auto show circuit abuzz with its dramatic 4-door coupe design and athletic presence. Showgoers had only one request: Build it. The CLA has brought an International sensation to fruition with The world is your playground. nothing lost In translation, from its diamond-block grille to its frame less door The glass all new to 2014 Concept Style Coupe set the auto show circuit abuzz with itsCLA sweeping taillamps.

Dream up

its dramatic 4-door coupe design and athletic presence. Showgoers had only one request: Build it. The CLA has brought an International sensation to fruition with Make Seefrom yourself in the car oftothe future. nothing lostitIn yours. translation, its diamond-block grille its frame less Now. door glass to its sweeping taillamps.

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34 BRUTHA MAGAZINE //Vehicle SUMMER ISSUE 2014• • New & Pre-Owned Sales

Bronx, New York Model // Caterer // Athlete

BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

The Bodies

WE LOVE THIS SUMMER Photographed by Seth London // New York, NY BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

Omar HONORE

New york, New York Student // Model // Artist

168lbs

What do you love about your body?

My back.

What do you dislike about your body?

Nothing.

How did you get your body?

Lots of training, running and jump rope.

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Water or Pop? Water Bed or Cardio?

Bed

Magor MBENGUE

Kes ADJEKUGHELE

180lbs

What do you love about your body?

I love everything about my body from the way it’s shaped and the smoothness of the skin.

What do you dislike about your body?

I don’t hate anything about my body.

How did you get your body?

I play a lot of sports probably that’s how I got this body. Cardio has something to do with it.

Pizza or Salad?

A good salad anyday.

New Rochelle Student

Bronx, New York Model // Caterer // Athlete

170lbs

What do you love about your body?

I love that I can enjoy certain foods without worrying about them negatively affecting my weight and that my body responds well to workouts.

What do you dislike about your body?

I love my body, I don’t dislike anything.

How did you get your body?

I used to do a lot of push-ups when I was younger and that really helped my chest and arms grow out. I’ve also played sports my whole life.

Pizza or Salad?

Pizza Water or Pop? Water. I’ve been trying to stay away from soda.

Bed or Cardio?

Bed. I enjoy sleeping and relaxing.

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BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

Eddie FELTON

Edgar ASH

188lbs

What do you love about your body?

I love everything about my body.

What do you dislike about your body?

Nothing.

How did you get your body?

Hard work, dedication and serious discipline as far as dieting and working out.

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New york, New York Model

Raleigh, NC Fitness Professional // Model // Actor

185lbs

Pizza or Salad?

A good salad anyday.

Water or Pop? Water Bed or Cardio?

Cardio

What do you love about your body?

I love that my body can get really big or really small depending on what I’m training for rather it be a fitness shot or slimming down for a high fashion editorial.

What do you dislike about your body?

I dislike that if I take a week or so off from training I can easily gain weight as well as my abs begin to fade.

How did you get your body?

I’ve always been very athletic whether it was basketball, boxing or football. So, I’ve always been somewhat in tip top shape.

Pizza or Salad?

Pizza. Who eats salads?

Water or Pop? Water only. I don’t drink pop ever.

Bed or Cardio?

Cardio. No time for bed rest. Too busy making dreams into reality.

Yunis TORRIS

Sheldon VERNEIL

180lbs

What do you love about your body?

I love my body, I can easily get bigger and bulk up and I can easily slim down.

What do you dislike about your body?

I take care of my body and there’s nothing I’d want to change, but I do dislike my ankles. They’ve just been through a lot of sprains playing basketball.

How did you get your body?

Working out and eating healthy,

going to the gym everyday except for Sundays and just breaking sweats. You have to give your best to look your best.

Pizza or Salad?

Both! But if I had to choose, it’d probably be pizza with a little bit of veggies on top.

Water or Pop? Water all day, everyday.

Bed or Cardio?

Bed because sleep is more important for restoring my muscles.

Philadelphia, PA Model // Actor

New york, New York Student // Model

170lbs

What do you love about your body?

I would say I love that I have a muscular physique now. Growing up I was a stick figure.

What do you dislike about your body?

It may be my tattoos. I think they limit me in work and opportunity in the industries that I’m in.

People tend to judge before they get to know me.

How did you get your body?

A lot of hard work for starters.

I’m kind of a gym rat. I’m there

whenever I have spare time.

Pizza or Salad?

Actually both. One of my favorite foods is pizza. But I enjoy a salad here and there.

Water or Pop? Water. I can’t have soda as the acid breaks me out. Plus water is more healthier.

Bed or Cardio?

I’m always doing cardio but these days it would be my bed. I barely sleep anymore because of my career but I love what I do so It makes up for it.

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Mixing it up

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with Qpid

Who is QPid? Qpid is really the alter ego of Clay Adderley, which comes to a surprise because not in my wildest dreams would I have pictured myself years ago having the courage to go on stage and perform and entertain a crowd full of strangers. Qpid is Fearless of failure, and I think once you concur, the fear of failing limits the things you can accomplish in life!

How did you get into music?

From the early age of about 11 years old I was actively involved in music not in singing but as a instrumentalist I played the trumpet, I first started in grade 7 at D.W. Davis Jr high school and was trained by Mr. Edward Hanna the music school teacher.

I continued my studies by joining the national youth orchestra headed by Duke Errol Strachan, after catching the eye of a few music teachers at a Performing Arts Festival, which I nearly won (laughing) in the year of 1999. I came to G.H.S senior high school to continue my pursuit of music. I got better and learned a lot under the guidance of both Educated Justilien brothers but mainly Yonell Justilien When was your first performance?

Awww man I remember like yesterday it was at a big organized

party in 2011, which was in the back of Kendal Issacs Gym. I performed along with the Scorch Conch Rake n Scrape Band I was featured that night as the artist but oh man I was nervous.

How did it make you feel?

From that night I knew, that the stage was somewhere I should be at all times, it’s like no other feeling man, you get all butterflies in your stomach before you go on but the minute that music starts it’s like nothing else matters, (besides my son).

Name the one place you’d love to perform someday. Why? There are so many places and you’re asking me one place??

That’s not fair, but if I could choose a place I would say at the halftime show at The Olympics. Because you have so many countries present, not every country watches football, basketball, or even the world cup.

But, I feel The Olympics are on a whole other level when it comes to worldwide viewers! I would love to give the world some of US that day!

How does your music differ from other artists?

When I started out I told myself I wanted bring a different vibe to Bahamian music or what we

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

called rake n scrape here in the Bahamas, I didn’t want to bring the typical songs which is dance, sweetheart songs, and stuff like that. I wanted to bring relatable music and somehow capture it in the sense of humor and truthfulness all in one song. And I think so far I found my niche so to speak. I want my music to be able to play every day any hour, not just party time and regatta time.

Who is your favorite musician?

My favorite other artist will have to be Ancient Man when it comes to stage performance and stage presence but when it comes to that hardcore ole school style I’m rolling with Phil Stubbs.

Anyone you really wish to collaborate with?

It will be pretty cool to do one with Phil Stubbs, Past & Present kind of thing, you know.

Did you have any problems coming up in the industry?

There is always going to be challenges whenever anyone tries to do something in life that they are passionate about, I have had a lot of trials coming up in the music industry here, and it’s humbling in a weird way, and the other way, it has made me even hungrier to go after what I want to achieve. I just want my generation to grow in supporting me and keeping this culture alive.

If so, what were they?

Honestly, the most challenging aspect for me is to have the acceptance of the public, Bahamians are so scared of change! And we see that everywhere not just in music,

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some people would rather just accept the safe and same ole same than to take a chance and give opportunity to another talented person, to some you can have all the right qualities and attitude and perseverance and ability, but if you’re not in the right circle then you know….

Sad to say but true!

Do you have any recent releases or upcoming albums?

Yes, I’m currently working on my second release of the year 2014. My first song this year was “Peep Ghost” ,It has caught the attention of a lot of ears and I got a good response. It is a two part song though and the second part will be titled, MACKOBE! Some may not know what MACKOBE means but after this they won’t surely forget!

Where can the public find your music?

My music is coming online this year on ITunes and CD, Baby.

The public can also check me out on Youtube, Soundcloud, Reverbnation, and my facebook fan page Q-pid Bahamas.

Check me out and click that like button!

Anything you wish to share with up and coming artists out there?

Don’t stop! keep pushing even in your darkest hour, still push.

Nothing great comes easy and overnight and if it comes too easy RUN AWAY! The ole fashion way is never wrong, hard work & dedication; the REAL fundamentals of life will always overcome society’s microwavable attitude of right now, right now.

Mix it

xing t up with “ There is always going to be challenges whenever anyone tries to do something in life that they are passionate about...”

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BRUTHA_FEEDING ME

Maple Pecan Crusted Salmon Serves six (6) Ingredients • 2 tablespoons butter • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon pepper • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard • 1/2 cup pecans • Salt for sprinkling • Fresh lemon wedges for serving

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Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and ground mustard. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is warmed through, 3-4 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

2. While the marinade is cooling, pour the pecans into a dry skillet and heat over medium heat, tossing frequently, until golden and toasted.

Remove from heat; let the pecans cool to room temperature and then chop finely.

baking sheet with foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.

5. Place the toasted, chopped pecans on a plate or shallow pie dish. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator. Dip the top side of each salmon fillet in the pecan crumbs pressing the salmon lightly into the pecans so they adhere to the top of the salmon. Place the fillets pecan-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Sprinkle the salmon with a pinch of salt.

3. Place the salmon fillets in a gallon-sized ziploc bag. Pour the maple marinade over the salmon, coating the salmon pieces evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

7. Bake the salmon for 20-22 minutes until cooked through but still tender inside (not overcooked).

The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be soft and not dry.

4. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a

8. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

Recipe By: melskitchencafe.com

THE DOT MILLER COLLECTION 2 0 1 1 C AC I Q U E AWA R D W I N N E R

A U T H E N T I C B A H A M I A N S T R AW W O R K

Phone: 472.0430 or 434.6864 | Email: dotmillercollections@hotmail.com | Facebook: Dot Miller Collections BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

STRONG &FIT J I MMY MAC KE Y BRINGS A NE W KIND OF FITNESS

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANITA CLARE

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

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Life is about being on top, if we don’t know how to fail, then how can we appreciate being on top?

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

Give us some insight into who the real Jimmy Mackey is.

I am God fearing, family man, a professional, a leader, and also a go-getter.

Have you always been into fitness or was this something that stemmed from basketball?

My interest in fitness has stemmed from Basketball and to think about it, I’ve always been in the gym, during and off basketball season.

Tell us about the international ball playing experience for you?

Playing International was definitely a great experience because I was able to play against some of the best players in the world, also the culture, the fans, and the nightlife was like no other. I’ve had a very successful playing career as a Pro Basketball player.

Share any valuable lessons you’ve learned?

Lessons I’ve learned during the course of my career is anything you want out of life, you have to give your all and never cut corners.

Respect everyone and put God first.

When did the urge to start Mac Fit 360 come?

The vision for MacFit360 came when my family and I lived in California; my passion for fitness was so big that I wanted to start my own business. I saw myself, as someone “We have grown fromwho carrying 300 the best and only wanted every client I came into contact with products and employing 11, to now needed to know that they got only carrying over 20,000 the products best. and

having over 150 people...”

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Were you excited or fearful?

Excited indeed, fearful never. In my life and career I’ve failed over and over, but my passion for greatness in everything that I did is what kept me on top. Life is about being on top, if we don’t know how to fail, then how can we appreciate being on top? We should always learn from our mistakes and correct them.

How did that feeling work in your favor?

The feeling definitely worked in my favor because now we are very successful, having a business plan and a great wife supporting my dreams made it so much easier.

What were some of the pressures and/or stresses involved in being an entrepreneur?

Becoming a business owner is definitely new grounds for me, and if you had asked me about this five years ago I would say heck no. If I went on statistics then I would not be open today, but because I believe in God and have a vision, fear was a thing of the past. Stresses of being an entrepreneur is what you allow it to be, sometimes owning a new business you have to start small, and work your way to the top. Learning your market, knowing your surroundings; figure out what’s missing and let that be the driving force of the business.

And how are you thriving today?

Business is definitely doing well, if you ask me what would I change, I would say nothing. Everything that’s happening right now is the result of planning and executing.

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

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People that are involved with MacFit360 is myself the CEO, and my wife, the accountant and office manager, she is great at organizing everything and she keeps me focused.

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

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BRUTHA_FEATURE

How many people are involved with your company?

People that are involved with MacFit360 is myself the CEO, and my wife, the accountant and office manager, she is great at organizing everything and she keeps me focused. I started alone in a park and now I have one front desk assistant and three trainers.

How do you differentiate from the competition, namely other fitness facilitates?

I’ve trained all around the world and have been in some amazing training facilities; moving back home I wanted to do something that was different from everyone. I have a mentor that lives in California and he owns a training facility with the same concept as mine, but when I visited his facility right then I knew this is what the Bahamas was missing.

Macfit360 is different in every aspect in terms of the competition, we only offer private Personal Training, Massage Therapy, Metabolic Testing, Sports performance Training, Boot Camp, Cooperate Training, and Group TRX Suspension training.

Every trainer holds a current Certification, and all Programs are designed by the MacFit360 brand.

We have a certified Athletic trainer that specializes in rehabilitation, and myself ‘The Caribbean’s’ only (NASM) Master Trainer, Certified National Academy of Sports Medicine.

How did you achieve your body?

When it comes to the way I look, I would say it has a lot to do with genetics, but after basketball I made fitness a lifestyle. I eat what I want, when I want, but I do keep in mind all the bad300 stuff that’s out there.

“We have grown from carrying As a fitness professional, mindset products and employing 11, to now is everything and still being able to carrying over 20,000 products perform, and even though I don’t play much having over 150 people... ” basketball. I can still get out there and dunk a basketball because I train daily. I don’t do core exercises because that’s taken care of in the kitchen.

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Current weight? Goal weight?

My current weight is 205 pounds, and my goal weight; I have none.

The way I am right now is where I want to be, healthy and strong.

If you could change one thing about your body, what would that be?

I absolutely would not want to change anything about my body, because this is the way I was designed and I am very grateful.

Favorite exercises?

My favorite exercise would have to be all (laughing) because I train my body to function not to move like a robot.

Fitness weaknesses?

My Fitness Weaknesses is I hate long distance and cardio. I get my cardio in my training, but I can still run a mile under 6 minutes.

Pizza or Salad?

Both, because the body is like a machine and you have to fuel it.

We get too caught up on diets and by experience, diets only work for so long, the lifestyle is what drives us in or away.

Strength or Cardio?

Strength training and cardio is must have in your program because as our body ages, we lose muscle mass and bone density, and by applying strength training in your routine we can actually slow the whole process.

Cardio definitely keeps the heart pumping, blood flowing, and burns fat, if that is your desire, and high intensity interval cardio.

Easy-going or Confident?

I am easy going once I get to know you. Confident, Yes indeed. As a fitness professional I have to be able to blend everything, because I deal with all walks of life at MacFit360.

We are the energy and our clients love the environment because of that.

It’s hard making that first step, what advice would you give to other Brutha’s aspiring to get a “body”?

The advice I would give my Brutha’s out there who really wants to transform their bodies is: First, figure out what it is you really want. Second, write down how long you think it would take to get there. Third, hire me (laughing) I’m kidding, just take action. As I stressed earlier make fitness a life style, but most important figure out what works for you.

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

Kooking with Kenny St. John www.kookingkenny.com

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

I started my journey on September 22, 2013.

The turning point for my decision to begin, came when I could no longer convince myself that I was happy with the person I saw in the mirror. I always knew that I needed to take better care of my health, and decided it was time to start, before it was too late.

I’ve always been a “big guy.” I tried to convince myself that it was “not an issue.” I always wanted to be fit and in the best shape possible. However, all my attempts in the past failed.

I said I wanted to become healthier, but my mindset had not truly changed, and so the results never came.

Maintaining my progress has been relatively easy, because I now see food differently. It is not a diet, but a lifestyle. Once you understand and accept this, and learn proper nutrition, it becomes easier to say no to unhealthy choices and yes to healthier ones.

My motivation and what kept me going through it all, was: Results!

They never lie!

Six months ago, I started off by going to the gym 5 days a week. Each day included, 20-40 minutes of cardio (treadmill), followed by 30 minutes weight training. Each day, I focused on a different body segment, while steadily increasing my workout intensity.

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Currently, I’ve extended my fitness routine to 5-7 days a week, 1.5 - 2hours, still focusing on cardio and body building. I maintain my nutrition throughout the day. My strength, endurance and stamina have increased.

I’ve extended my cardio workouts to 50 minutes, I’m lifting heavier weights, and I am pleased with the results I see.

Originally, my goal was to build a “hotter body.” Then I realized how important nutrition is and the role it plays. My new goal then became: to build a better body through healthier choices and good nutrition, and the aesthetics and physique will develop automatically.

When I started, I tipped the scale at 285lbs. I have lost a total of 70lbs. My goal is much more than weight-loss, so I do not have a target weight. I intend to build muscle and a strong physique. Weight is a combination of water, muscle, fat and your entire body’s content. Muscle weighs more than fat. So as I continue to build and sculpt, my body weight will increase and sometimes decrease. My body fat percentage is

Kooking with Kenny

more important than the numbers I see on the scale.

A scale can never tell you if those “10lbs lost” consisted of fat, water content or muscle.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve avoided the beach, because of my insecurities with my weight. I’m not where I want to be, but I will get there, and have fun while I do it! My confidence has increased. My insecurities have decreased. I see now what I am capable of and I’m excited to see what I will continue to accomplish!

My daily meals are either cooked or purchased.

I’m weight lifting now, so my nutrition is extremely important in maintaining growth and gains. To maintain an elevated metabolic rate, I have to consume 5 to 6 meals daily.

I find myself cooking 2 to 3 times a week, to maintain my nutrition. Since I have to maintain a healthy diet, I had to discover interesting ways to prepare my meals without using unhealthy options, as I did in the pass.

I decided to post photos of my recipes and dishes, and they immediately drew interest from friends and followers.

This eventually sparked the idea

to create a page, website and even video posts of my recipes, and Kooking With Kenny was born!

As you might have guessed, I was and remain a fan of the standard Bahamian dishes: lots of peas and rice, macaroni, plantains, barbecue chicken and ribs, etc. In the past, I rarely ate vegetables.

I disliked most of them. I could never eat a salad.

Yes, it was that bad. Now, I consume more fruits.

I eat salad now without dressing, and I’m slowly conditioning myself to consume more and more vegetables daily, and of different varieties. My favorite on-the-go meal, is a Caesar Salad wrap: Pita bread, fresh romaine lettuce, sauteed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, jalapenos, light Italian cheese and chopped chicken breast. At home, my favorite meal includes lightly steamed herbs (no oil), seared chicken breast (thinly sliced), jalapenos, bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, basil, oregano and broccoli. All served with a side of spring mix. I consume only water, 100% orange juice, and milk as beverages.

Fast food was once my weakness. A burger, upsized fries and drink, day in and day out. Chinese food.

At home, I always filled my plate and had

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

SEP 2013

MAR 2014

second-helpings in one sitting.

Now, I no longer consume soda or any “sweet drinks.” If I find myself in a drive-thru or fast food restaurant, I remain conscience of what I order, how much of it I will consume and what it is that I am consuming. My usual purchases are chicken sandwiches, and caesar salads without the dressings. No fries.

No soda.

progress, as well as comment, ask questions, gain inspiration and motivation.

Kooking With Kenny: I have been playing with the idea for a few months now, since my weight-loss journey progressed, and I gained more followers. I inspired and encouraged them, and they in turn, continued to inspire me. So I thought, how can I focus this into under one brand? I’m a Visual Designer, so naturally, creating a logo was a simple task. I then acquired the server and email rights. If you’re going to do something, do it right the first time. KookingKenny. com will become a portal for posting my cooking ideas. It’ll also become a medium by which people can follow my 62

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If I can motivate others in anyway, I will! I now realize how my progress is inspiring others, and I hope to inspire more as I close one chapter in my life, and begin another.

My final words for those of you who are considering your very own “green lifestyle” or “weight loss journey”: As you begin to exercise to lose weight, your food consumption should increase. Healthier foods, in smaller portions, in 5-6 meals a day, keeps your metabolic rate elevated. As you exercise, lose weight, and consume less calories, your body, in an attempt to find balance, lowers your metabolism. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for your body to adjust to the change in diet, but it eventually does. Results will cease and you begin to plateau. If you desire constant results, remember to give your body the nutrition it needs.

You too can achieve results, just like I did.

Kooking with Kenny

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BRUTHA_FEMME FATALE

Femme Fatale ALEXANDRA PELANNE

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BRUTHA_FEMME FATALE

Who is Alexandra Pelanne?

I am 100% Bahamian born and bred.

Although I was born in Freeport I consider myself a complete child of my country. The only islands I have never been to are Bimini, Inagua, and Mayaguana. I’m an absolute animal lover, especially cats and horses.

One thing people may not know about me is that I was and still am an absolute wild child. I have an insatiable lust for life and I live for adventure and crazy fun. I believe the moments that take your breath away are the same moments that make you feel the most alive. I have no apathy for struggles 66

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and hardships because I feel that they make success all the sweeter. My whole outlook on life can be summed up in this quote: “A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor.”

How did you getting into modeling?

When I was in high school I started a small photography company with a few other people. I posted a few pictures taken of myself on Model Mayhem, just to do it really.

About two months after I posted the photos I was contacted by a photographer/TV

producer from Atlanta, asking me to be on his show; it’s currently airing on FOX Traveller.

After I got my first taste of modeling during filming I decided I’d rather be in front of the camera than behind it. The rest is history.

What makes you a unique?

I don’t feel like I see the world in the same way most other people may. I don’t plan much of what goes on in my life. I feel that if you put out positive vibes and have a positive attitude that things will just naturally come to you. Not much makes me angry or gets me riled up, especially if the situation is beyond

my control. I think anxiety and regret are two very useless emotions, and that stressing out very rarely helps a situation. I don’t feel like there are many people out there with that kind of outlook on life.

weight. I currently weigh about 130 pounds, and I’d like to see myself put on about 5 more pounds of muscle, of course.

Gym or Outside?

The gym for sure.

What’s your favourite childhood memory?

Favourite exercise?

I remember when I was younger, I used to love rainy days. My mom was the best.

She used to let me much destroy the house to make pillow forts, and she always kept coloring books and little craft projects tucked away just for those days. It was the perfect way to turn what would normally be a really disappointing day for a little kid into something to look forward to.

It’s a tie between dead lifts and squats, because they’re both extremely efficient and effective exercises.

Do you consider yourself to be a giver or a taker?

Not at all. I’m very secure with the way I look and I think that the way all the parts of my body come together make me beautiful regardless of imperfections.

Pizza or Salad?

Is this a rhetorical question? Pizza; all day, every day.

Is there anything you wish to change about your body?

I’m definitely a giver, almost to a fault. I have a huge heart. I’ll do things for people I barely even know just because I can; it’s a reward for me in itself.

Is there a rule you always break?

There are a million of them! I take great pride in living my life for myself and not for anyone else, so that tends to result in a lot of “rule breaking”.

Describe some of your most important accomplishments?

I’m not one to blow my own horn.

In all seriousness my most important accomplishment is to have been blessed to live long enough to have made it to this point in my life. I am healthy, I have my family, and I have a few loyal friends. Those are my biggest achievements. Those simple things mean the most to me.

Favourite photographers?

My top 5 favorite photographers that I have shot with, in no particular order, are Donn Thompson (NYC), Leo Creary, Roderick Wells, Zoe Christou-Welsh (Georgia) and Vado Culmer. All amazingly talented and awesome people in general.

Anyone you wish to work with in the future?

There are many, both local and foreign photographers. FaceT Studios, Elena Kalis, Ben Jamieson, Richard Munro (RJM Photoworks), and the Black Tape Project to name a few. What model doesn’t want to work with Annie Liebovitz? I’m just saying.

Are there any places you’d like to go as a model?

Definitely. My ultimate goal is Sports

What’s next for Alex?

Illustrated (kinda cliche I know). Besides that I’d love to get into some European publications, and other American magazines like FHM and Maxim. I’d also like to eventually move into other areas of the fashion industry and maybe even get back into photography one day.

And how did you achieve your body?

Lot’s of hard work! I have the best trainer ever! Also my workout buddies are two guys, so I have no choice but to push myself hard every time I walk into the gym. I don’t do much cardio because I train for strength, so I tend to lift heavy and push my muscles to exhaustion. It really helps you to see results fast and keeps you trim.

Current weight? Goal weight?

Anybody that is close to me knows that I always have something or the other that I’m looking into or preparing for. Right now my main goals are to seriously up my magazine submissions and features, and to find some representation, because up to now I have been totally self-managed. Other than that I am definitely looking forward to this year’s Islands of the World Fashion Showcase, which I’ve been fortunate enough to have been chosen to model in the ads for the event.

What would you say to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?

I would tell them to be determined and to go with what feels right. Don’t force anything and let it come to you because whatever is meant to happen will happen. I think the key to my success has been having a quiet, humble faith that I was going to get where I wanted to be one step at a time.

I’d love to say that I’m happy with myself the way I am, but I feel like that is the socially acceptable response of the times. What may surprise you is that I don’t want to lose any BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2014

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CRUISE CONTROL The 2014 BMW X6

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It’s a robust retort to all preconceptions of what a coupe must be. Four doors, high ride, and a V-8 TwinPower Turbo with BMW’s xDrive, intelligent all-wheel-drive system, make it a coupe outlaw that grips corners mercilessly. The BMW X6. It takes a coupe to a coupe above.

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE • Climate Control & Ventilation • Rear Seating • Premium Seating • Luggage/Cargo Capacity • Onboard Navigation System (Traffic Alerts)

ENTERTAINMENT • BMW Assist™ MyInfo • DVD Player with Rear Entertainment System • 16-Speaker HD Surround Sound • iPod®/iPhone® USB Integrated System

Source: www.bmwusa.com

PERFORMANCE & EFFICIENCY • 8-speed STEPTRONIC with Paddle Shifters •Dynamic Performance Control • xDrive Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System • Active Steering • 3.0-Liter, TwinPower Turbocharged • 6-Cylinder Engine, 300-hp

SAFETY & SECURITY • Dynamic Stability Control • BMW Assist™ with Bluetooth® • Wireless Technology • Run-Flat Tires • Rearview Camera

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“Most people take the limits of their vision to be the limits of the world. A few do not. Join them.”

- Arthur Schopenhauer 70

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How to feel your feelings while remaining sane!

We all hit bumps in the road of life. I’m a big believer that it’s not how hard you fall, but how high you bounce back.

Because it’s so important, I have written a lot about how the only thing we can really control in our lives is our perception.

We have influence over some things in our lives, but mostly we are powerless.

This is why attitude and perception are everything.

Therefore, when we hit a road bump, when we get thrown off, when we get depressed, what do we do? How do we bounce back? The truth is some of us don’t want to bounce back. Some of us would rather keep suppressing our emotions and working on ourselves, so these folks keep stuffing down parts of themselves that are dying to be seen, recognized and expressed.

The path to self-destruction is lined with avoidance of self. That’s what addiction really is, avoidance of ourselves to our own detriment. There are many ways to be addicted. You can be addicted to substances, people, work, fame, success, attention, food, and so much more.

term pain of facing a truth far outweighs the long-term pain of believing a lie.

I have found a system that has helped me truly face my emotions and feelings instead of running from them. Here are tips on how to feel your feelings and remain sane through the process:

1. Go 100% sober from your distraction of choice. For 30 days give up the cigarettes, the alcohol, the lover, the sugar and the chase.

2. Breathe. Our bodies need breath in

a major way. Most of us don’t breathe properly and deprive our body from this life giving source. The best way I know how to fill my body up with breath is with Kundalini Yoga. Do three classes a week for 30 days. It will change your life.

3. Drink up. Hydrate. Dehydration can

lead to negative side effects, including depression and low energy. Drink 1 liter of ALKALINE water for every forty pounds you weigh.

4. Exercise. Move your body 3-4 days a week for at least 30 minutes.

When we hit a rough patch in life, instead of just letting ourselves feel, we can choose one of the above addictions and keep avoiding what’s within us. This is not what the universe has in mind for you. No amount of chocolate, sex, success, or drugs can silence the whisper of the universe within you or your emotions.

5. Eat an alkaline diet. This is a great way

So, today, instead of running, I have another suggestion. It’s time to stop running from the universe and your emotions and just face them. Be still. Get quiet and listen. Let yourself get angry, let yourself get sad. Face the truth. Go through the eye of the needle. Feel the pain and know that it will slowly fade. The short-

7. Get a therapist, mentor or coach to help

to bring your body back into alignment. I suggest reading Crazy Sexy Diet, The pH Miracle, and The Body Ecology Diet.

6. Write your feelings every morning.

Journal for 10-30 minutes in the A.M. Share yourself on the page. guide you through this process. It helps to have someone be an outside observer.

8. If you are addicted to drugs, food,

alcohol or sex, get to a 12-step meeting for your addiction.

Email Mastin Kipp for tips and advice: thedailylove@thedailylove.com

9. Only hang out with friends who uplift

you. Take a break from any negative people in your life.

10. Write your goals down. Many of us

have no clear vision of the kind of life we want to create and as a result, don’t create it.

11. When you start to have anxiety,

sadness or any “negative” emotion, instead of reaching for the pills, the sugar or the drink, just let yourself feel your feelings.

Love yourself through that process. Let yourself feel. It’s not a bad thing to get angry, sad, or to cry. When we don’t let ourselves feel, we cut ourselves off from our core and the universe. It’s vital that you let yourself feel your feelings and not run.

Remember when you’re in the middle of those gnarly feelings. “this too will pass.”

It gets better. Be brave and feel. No more running.

12. Hang in places of high vibrations.

Sacred spaces, yoga studios, nature, with awesome friends, bible studies, churches, etc. Go where the Love is.

I hope these tips help you break through.

These are some of the most powerful tools I know to connect back to who you really are, to be able to hear the universe and stay sane in the process.

Let me know how it goes As always, the action happens over on the BLOG, head on over there and leave a comment on my blog “Take Risks on Behalf of Your Heart,” and join the conversation.

The TDL Community thrives on the comments and it’s a great place to get support!

Lots of Love, Mastin

Visit: www.thedailylove.com

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