Brutha Magazine Summer 2013

SUMMER 2013 ISSUE 6

FATHER FIGURE |

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT BEING A DAD

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issue 6

BRUTHA_CONTENTS

06 EDITOR’S LETTER 07 CREDITS 08 CONTRIBUTORS 09 TWO CENTS!

lifestyle 10 POWER & MONEY

Taj tells us why we don’t need money to impress women.

12 HOW YOU LIVING?

Here’s what your home says

about you.

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SHE SAYS – HE SAYS Can your Ex be a Friend or Foe? Zakiya & Darnell on Case of The Exes.

16 CREATING THE BALANCE

Are you a Brick Wall? by David Wygant 18 WORK IT

David Wygant tells us the #1 sign

she’s interested

fashion 20 Get into these awesome Summer Fashion Trends.

grooming & beauty 36 FACE IT

It’s time to Man-Scape! by David Wygant.

38 MR. FITNESS

Getting Ripped & Ready for Summer

with Mikhail Barnett

art & culture 42 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Introducing Tha Hypnotist: Judah

Tha Lion by Lakeithra Taylor 52 FEEDING ME

Vegan Blueberry Pancakes anyone?.

Courtesy of Giovan ‘dabahamianvegan’ Cooper.

feature 54 What we love about being a Dad

with Richard Ritchie, Freddie

Lightbourne and Decarlo Ramsey.

outro 68 MAN ON THE RISE

Damalus Curry started from the

bottom, now he’s here.

74 TECH & GADGETS

What to get: The Samsung S4

or The Apple iPhone 5?

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FEMME FATALE She’s hot, She’s Blazin: Meet Campari Caribbean Girl Tomii Culmer.

92 CRUISE CONTROL

Meet the 2013 Lexus GS350 94 BRUTHAMAN

Mastin Kipp tells us it’s totally

spiritual to vent!

STAY CONNECTED: FOLLOW BRUTHA ON, FACEBOOK TWITTER, TUMBLR, YOUTUBE, AND INSTAGRAM BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

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BRUTHA_EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR’S LETTER

To my Brutha,

As I reminisce I oft have jaded memories of who my father was before he passed away almost thirteen years ago. It is a bittersweet moment every time I spot a dad laughing, playing, and hugging his offspring. It makes me question why I was never afforded such an opportunity. Why was my father never there? Fortunately, I stopped blaming myself a long time ago. I realized he was the one who missed out. He wasn’t there to witness his son’s journey to greatness. Was your dad there for you?

Our sistah Oprah mentioned that, “we are each responsible for our own life – no other person is or ever could be.”

I had to learn to forgive my father. Liberating ourselves from the burden of unforgiveness is an essential step in our development as men. I could not have evolved into who I was destined to be if I had not forgiven him. My Brutha, no matter how dire your dilemma, it’s time that you do the same.

In this issue, we’re featuring three amazing dads who wish to share what they’ve learned and love about being fathers. Perhaps you’re tired of hearing “there are no good Bruthas left”, or feel that; for far too long, too many have been labeled as estranged father figures and ‘dead beat baby-makers.’ If you do, then be sure to check out our featured dads, “Rising Artist” Judah Tha Lion and our “Man On The Rise” Damalus Curry. I’m also excited to be introducing our very first female feature, Ms. Tomasina Culmer, the 2013 Campari Caribbean Poster Girl and Bahamian Supermodel.

There are also superb reads on “Dealing with your Exes”,” Summer Body Fitness”, “What your home says about you”,” How you’ll know if she’s interested” and “Why you need to vent and let it all out”. Also, we’re showing off the 2013 Lexus GS 350 and making a comparison of the latest phone technology. And there’s still more.

Remember, Brutha Magazine is all for you. Don’t forget to spread the word to another Brutha.

Love your Brutha,

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

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Editor-In-Chief Creative Director Fashion Director Contributing Stylist Copy Correspondents

Travis T. Sweeting Cardell J. McClam Tamar Moss J. Williard Craig Bain Giovan Cooper Taj Duncombe Mastin Kipp Zakiya Muwwakkil Daphne Smith-Bethel Travis T. Sweeting Darnell Lamont Walker David Wygant

Contributing Photographers

Roderick Wells Anita Clare John Mcbride

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 2013 Brutha Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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BRUTHA_THE CONTRIBUTORS

DAPNE SMITH-BETHEL

LAKEITHRA TAYLOR

ANITA CLARE

Daphne Smith- Bethel is a feature writing professional. Having written for various blogs, magazines and websites, her passion is bringing creativity to life through words. In her free time she loves to bake sweet treats for her family and friends.

LaKeithra is the editor of Play It Forward Mag, a blogger, avid tweeter and a self-professed lover of Bahamian Culture, Music & Art.

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.

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.

J. WILLARD

JOHN MCBRIDE

RODERICK WELLS

J. Willard also better known as Joe Willard Stubbs B.A, M.S, has built a remarkable career as an expert personal image consultant, fashion stylist and pageant coach who gently and intuitively helps women, men and children communicate who they are through what they wear.

John McBride’s passion for photography did not develop until college. To fulfill graduation requirements, he purchased a camera and took a photography class.

Thereafter, little did John know that it would develop into a passionate hobby.

He now shoots photos for every occasion, capturing every moment that comes across his eyes. A native of Riverside, California, John’s particular interests are nature and sports photography but recently he has come to appreciate portrait photography where he uses the aesthetics of his subjects to show the world from another angle.

Roderick Wells is a Nassau based Commercial, Nature, Event and Editorial photographer. His background and passions include, candid shooting, aviation, fashion and experimentation with his artistry.

In 2012, J. Willard launched his own company, Name You Style by J. Willard, on the beliefs that a dynamic image could be created without having to renounce one’s personal style or comfort.

J. Willard offers private consultations and remarkable makeovers for all clients.

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Over the years, many technical skills were mastered, trouble-shooting became a breeze and true artist emerged. His professionalism, accompanied with his charm, wit and keen eye for design, shape, form and concept has awarded him a vast fan population and a strong foundation of clientele.

*two cents *your comments

*your tweets

F*cking awesome!”

Gremel Street

@_CGB_ Yall know the Spring 2013 edition of BRUTHA is out right? Check it out issuu. com/bruthamagazine… @BruthaMagazine

“Brutha does it agin!! Great work from the two of u!!!”

K Le’Var Smith “You look very nice awesome job !”

Aldiva Cattleya

@Keisha_Oliver Putting in the design work for @BruthaMagazine’s Spring 2013 issue. #KOdesign

“Keep being a positive influence to those around you Julien. The more exposure God gives you the greater the responsibility. Proud of you Bro, be encouraged.”

Andre Chappelle

@playit4wardmag Follow these talented #Bahamians @turtle_back @stylezinemag @BruthaMagazine @EssenceBahamas

“Nice…keep working hard darlin, soooo proud of you! xoxo” Natasha Osbourne “I want a copy….get me one :-)” Shalanda Roan “Clean. Push it to the Limit!”

DAngelo Ferguson “Just keep making moves” Rubin Thompson “Great job Julien Believe and Brutha Magazine! Wonderful Cover!”

Sammie Poitier

@Canada_Bouchard Just finished the spring issue of >> @BruthaMagaine<< #Awesome Check them out sometime @AMOThings We’re featured in @BruthaMagazine Spring Issue issuu.com/bruthamagazine #AMOThings

*add your two cents We’d love to hear what you think of our winter 2012 issue. Contact us via email, facebook, or twitter today!

Email: mail@bruthamagazine.com Tweet: @BruthaMagazine

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BRUTHA_POWER & MONEY

Why you don’t have to be rich to impress women.

By Taj Duncombe

Before I begin dropping this extreme knowledge on you all, I would first like to say that I do not speak for all women in this world. Only a small sampling. (I think that declaration should release BRUTHA from all legal responsibility.)

Let’s face it, 50% of the men reading this right now are broke as hell. And only 25% of that 50% of men are interested in women. To that group of men, I have come to be your Moses, here to guide you into the Promised Land flowing with Number 2 Remy and Esse nail polish. I am here to fix your problem – a personal Olivia Pope, if you will. What problem is that? Helping you impress a woman when you’re not rich.

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Because we see images everyday of rich men with beautiful women, we assume that you have to be rich to get a woman like that these days. Not so. I remember when the world first laid eyes on Jay-Z with Beyoncé. They assumed that Destiny’s Child had gone bankrupt, and she was leaning on those BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

Roc-A-Fella dollars. But what I caught onto was that Jay was a charmer. He’d already charmed grown men who were walking around repeating words that he said in his songs. If he could do that in a song you don’t think that if he put his mind to it, he couldn’t charm Beyoncé?

So what do you have? Charm? Charm can get you places; a smooth talker can get you in the best restaurants and haggle a discount on the meal.

Intelligence? Nothing a woman likes more than a conversation that doesn’t involve the word “truin’.”

Are you a hustler? Listen. A woman will ride or die for a man she knows will always keep food in front of her and a roof over her head. Why do you think some women love “up and coming” rappers so much?

It’s the hustle. Are you funny? A funny man can get almost any woman he wants. Look at Eddie Murphy and all the women he’s ran through even with those Johnny Gill rumors still floating around. (If you’ve never heard those rumors and don’t know what I’m talking about… Google it. You’re welcome!)

Fellas listen to me. You don’t need to be rich to get a great woman. You just need to know who you are and use what you’ve got! No woman wants a rich man who’s humorless, or boring, or worst of all – dumb. Most women think about their future a lot. So if we meet you and you’re broke but you’re hustling?

You always keep a smile on our faces? Or if we can discuss anything with you? You’re a keeper! If we meet you and you’ve got a bit of savings but you can’t hold a decent conversation? We’ll stick around for a quick shopping spree but you’ll be gone the minute the cashier hands you your change.

What I’m getting at here is you don’t need money to impress a woman because money doesn’t make you who you are. If a rich man loses all of his money he’s still that man – just with less money. You’re you in Louis loafers, and you’re you in Lewis loafers. Real women want real men. Real men don’t hide behind the faces of Pindling, Butler, Wallace-Whitfield, Symonette, and real men definitely don’t hide behind Queens. They know who they are and they show us.

Home Decor for every ocassion!

Tonique Williams - Darling Highway Nassau, Bahamas | Phone: (242) 356.7502 Like Us on Facebook: misspricklepatch or thepricklepatch BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

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BRUTHA_HOW YOU LIVING

Do you have any idea what your home says about you?

by David Wygant

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You know, I’ve gone into many people’s homes, and immediately I can figure out who they are and how they care about themselves. If I go into their bathroom and it’s absolutely disgusting, I think to myself, this person could care less about hygiene. They probably don’t brush their teeth and probably wear the same underwear three days in a row.

I go in their kitchen and I see nothing in the refrigerator, and I think to myself: they must really like to starve themselves.

If I go into their bedroom and their bed is unmade, I think now that’s cool, they must think to themselves every morning, “Why the hell make a bed?” I’ve never understood that point, where you don’t make the bed because “you’re just getting in it to unmake it again anyway.”

Right.

You get the point. Your home says so many things about you, especially if you’re dating. Your furniture will say a lot about who you are. The way you decorate will say a lot about who you are. If you have pictures on the wall it will say a lot about who you are.

Look around your house as you read this, and if you’re reading this at work, look around your desk. Does the condition of your desk actually describe who you are as a person? Look around your house tonight when you go home, and take a look at it, and ask yourself, if I came into this home, would I feel homey? Does it give off the character — does it give off who I am? Is it warm? Is it fuzzy? Is it new? Is it modern? Is it hip? Is it cool?

So many people don’t spend enough time on their house. I think it’s time you really started figuring it out because when someone comes over to your house for the very first time, you want them to have a certain feeling about you. What’s that feeling that you get about your house when you go in there?

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BRUTHA_SHE SAYS Exes – those who once held an ever so endearing place in your heart.

The person of your dreams who you once felt could quite possibly be the one to last a lifetime. But as luck would have it things didn’t work out how you expected and after a season of bliss, hate, or a combination of both—you decide to call it quits.

So the question arises - do you remain friends or completely cut off all ties with someone you once loved?

The answer to that question is - it all depends on the situation.

Relationships end for a myriad of reasons. A few reasons are infidelity, lying, disrespectful behavior, friend/family influence, or just plain and simple incompatibility. In order to answer the question of continued friendship, one must fully evaluate why it is you broke up in the first place.

When The Answer is Yes

by Zakiya Muwwakkil

If someone were to ask me if I personally would remain friends with my ex my answer would be, yes. Not only hypothetically but literally, I have remained friends with exes when the cause of breakup was incompatibility or

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even infidelity. The only friendship deal breaker for me are cases of habitual lying and disrespect because those are traits that are unacceptable in any form of relationship whether it be romantic or platonic.

So how can you remain friends with someone who cheated on you? It’s easy, cheating in my book has no bearings on friendship.

Just because a person had an emotional or physical experience with someone else while they were with you doesn’t negate the fact that they love you and are still capable of being a good friend.

For example, I have an ex who cheated and though it somewhat hurt, I too learned from the situation. I recognized the many factors in our relationship that created issues between us, and though I am not excusing his behavior, I forgave him. We discussed what went wrong and agreed to be friends, just as we had been for years before we started a romantic relationship. And though we broke up many years ago, he remains one of the few people who would do anything for me. Since then we have gone through many good times together as friends and have helped each other through subsequent life issues. It is through our continued bond that he has become more than a friend – to me he is family.

When the Answer is Hell No So what about the not-so-pleasant situations that lead to breakup such as dealing with a psycho or blatantly disrespectful ex?

Well, if you were in a relationship where the person was downright disrespectful or crazy, the answer is HELL NO and GO! Run as fast as you can. Far too often we see people trying to give their exes the benefit of the doubt. They want to be the bigger person and remain friends, only to be tormented by their ex down the line. We’ve heard stories about the crazy ex that used a platonic post-breakup friendship as a means to harass, take advantage of, or destroy their exes new relationship. The best way to prevent these things and to rid yourself from a toxic person is to cut them off completely. If their bad attitude or bad behavior was the reason you broke up in the first place, do yourself a big favor and turn them lose. Not everything is worth saving and your sanity is far greater than keeping a friendship with a fool.

When the Answer is Maybe Sometimes the answer to the ex partner friendship factor isn’t that cut and dry. While ‘yes’ or ‘no’ might be the obvious answer in some cases, it’s not so clear in others.

Most of the time these convoluted instances arise when other people are being considered as factors in the decision. These cases are when you and your ex have a friendship but your new partner finds that to be problematic. Or another factor would be because

you share mutual friends or other close ties with the person such as a work relationship or other social connection.

If this is the case, a deeper evaluation is necessary, and one must weigh the risks of remaining friends and causing contention in a new relationship. It also may mean possibly severing ties with mutual connections you had with your ex.

Personally, I believe in these cases the answer is still yes and handling the situation amicably like adults with all involved is possible.

Things to Consider in the Path to Friendship So when asking yourself whether friendship is possible with an ex don’t forget to examine what it is about that person you like and don’t like and fully recognize why you broke up in the first place. If the person made a mistake but otherwise has a good heart—or if the reason is merely incompatibility—go ahead and keep them around. Recognize that friendship can and should go beyond the boundaries of circumstance when both parties have good intentions.

But if your ex was a noxious poor excuse for a partner that only made your life miserable, run like hell and don’t look back. Appreciate the real friends you have and realize that the world is a big place leaving you with the possibility of meeting new people and building new relationships.

Case of The Exes: Can they be a Friend or Foe?

By Zakiya Muwwakkil

by Darnell Lamont Walker

BRUTHA_HE SAYS

HE SAYS

One day you realize you’re standing in a bar bathroom with your pants around your ankles and your ex-girlfriend bent over in front of you, head slightly turned, smiling at the man she vividly remembers took her last pieces of sanity. She loves you for that, though, and for this. And you love her equally, and this all makes sense to you both. The problem will show its ugly head when you sober up and realize photos of the two of you together are all over Facebook, and you’ll soon be answering to your current lover.

“She’s just a friend. Can’t a man be friends with his ex?” She says no, and gives you four amazing reasons why it’s an impossibility, but all that will stick out is “because the feelings never really leave.” The armor you put on to go up against that statement is weak, but you defend your stance with all your might, shouting back, “that’s simply not true,” forgetting you have no great example of the contrary.

She gathers me. They gather me.

All my exes who get the number when I change it frequently understand the man I am.

Unfortunately they were only able to see it looking in a rear view, but they see it, and I love them for that.

They are friends of mine. They find those broken pieces of me and they put me back together. It’s a beautiful friendship. Yes, friends.

My current lover hasn’t spoken to me in days, and while I’m prone to believe she could be the one who I’d trade in my travel miles for, I’m thinking of texting her something like “stop tripping, she’s just a friend.” But she sees her as a threat. To her my exes all become the flamboyant, earring wearing Persian man on 300, and she stands with 299 others, mainly her man-hating and newly single friends, ready for war. These exes are foes. And we’re not able to find neutral ground. To war we go.

My problem is I tend to think we shouldn’t fall in love unless we have a foundation in friendship. That makes sense to me, and to most women apparently. Somewhere between that thought and the thought most women and sensitive men hold that exes should never speak, there’s something lost in translation. My ability to build awesome friendships that last seconds beyond the deathbed is what I sometimes brag about. That doesn’t end when I tell them I can’t love them in the same capacity any longer. Sure, they throw shit, bite, spread nasty rumors, but several weeks later, we’re giving each other advice on haircuts, and double tapping photos on instagram.

My exes, all but the one who had me in a therapy session, are my friends. I haven’t quite learned to make enemies.

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BRUTHA_CREATING THE BALANCE

Are You A Brick Wall?

David Wygant

Recently I did a podcast about your past dictates, what you can learn from them, and how you can formulate a whole new future.

One thing you should know about me is that when I coach others (by doing things like creating my podcasts), I really learn a lot about myself.

I learn about my own issues and my own “stuff,” like my own fears that I may not even have realized I had. I am not talking about fears having to do with when I coach guys how to approach women. I have zero apprehension about that.

I go deeper. So ever since I recorded that podcast, I have been thinking about it and one word keeps coming up: resistance.

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I have realized that I have had resistance in a lot of my relationships. Giving in seems to be a big theme. Giving in and losing control seem to be big themes.

Now granted, there are things that you can’t give into in relationships, things that you are very passionate about or which are part of your core belief system or whatever it might be. Even if you are passionate about certain issues, though, you can still discuss them and learn from each other.

You can find common ground, or you can compromise and find a new way. People who practice resistance tend to never compromise or, if they do, they do it without really compromising.

So I find resistance, resisting thing, to be my theme. I seem to resist things that I may or may not want, or that I may or may not have ever thought I wanted. I seem to resist people in certain situations, and maybe resist letting go or letting go of control.

I seem to attract people who have the same issues because of the the law of attraction.

I believe in the law of attraction.

The law of attraction is basically that you’re going to find someone with whom you share certain traits, because the two of you still need to learn certain things. It’s the reason why you are put on this Earth together at the same time.

It is so both of you will teach each other and help each other grow. So grow through your resistance or whatever your issue might be.

Now I want to go even deeper. I want you start thinking to yourself about all of the people you have attracted, and about all of the lessons you’ve had to learn. Were you able to blast through that lesson with somebody, or did those lessons repeat themselves with the next person and the next person and the next person you met?

So resistance was the word that came up for me. I am sure if you look deep inside, some of your words might be different.

Some of you may not be able to come with any words. I know myself so well that I was able to come up with a word for myself. So take some time to see if you can find a word for you that represents what you have to learn.

Life is a mirror. You’re going to attract someone who is exactly where you are at right now in your life.

For dating advice visit www.davidwygant.com BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

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BRUTHA_WORK IT

The #1 Sign That Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Interested 18

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t d.

Have you ever been out with a buddy and a woman starts talking to the both of you and in your mind you’re thinking:

“Oh man, she likes me. I can get her.”

And even if she starts to pay more attention to your buddy, you still think she’s digging you. Men are funny that way. Women are very, very obvious when they like somebody.

The other night, Obi and I went to Cafe Gratitude in Venice.

It is a vegan, organic, healthy restaurant.

It’s also full of very interesting characters, and some great-looking women.

They’ve got people that will chew their food with their eyes closed like they’re having some orgasmic experience. You’ve got a lot of hippies. You have a lot of people that probably do yoga at sunrise, chant, and follow some spiritual guru. Yea, it’s that kind of place. But did I mention the good food and hot women in yoga pants?

Anyway, we were sitting at the bar—yes, they do have a bar there, but it’s a vegan bar so it’s a lot different, not boozy—and this waitress comes over and starts talking to Obi and I. The next time she comes back she completely ignores me, and says to Obi, “Oh my god, you eat raw? You’re, like, glowing.” Meanwhile, I’m sitting there like the invisible man.

She continues to talk, doesn’t look at me one

time at all, and is figuratively vomiting all over him. I’m sitting there of course thinking, “Hey, I glow too, you know.” Here’s the deal: When a woman is interested in you, and you’re with a friend, you will know it instantly. Women get fixated on the man they’re attracted to. They will literally ignore the other guy.

I was the invisible man in this situation.

But I have no problem being the invisible man. I actually quite enjoy being the invisible man because I like it when my friends get the action. I enjoy when my friends get it on. I’m somebody who likes to share.

I don’t believe every single woman is attracted to me, like a lot of guys do. Other guys would see that happening and start competing with their friend. But I don’t believe in competition whatsoever. I was invisible the whole night and I didn’t care.

She came back probably five, six times. Never once talking to me first. She was talking to Obi—which is wonderful because that’s how life works.

When a woman you like is attracted to one of your friends, let it go.

Don’t try to steal her.

Don’t try to manipulate it towards you. Just realize that there’s an abundance of women that are out there, and the next one may be interested in you and have no interest in your friend. Every woman is different and has different taste.

Let it be and enjoy it.

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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SUMM FASH BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

Photographed by: Roderick Wells in Nassau, Bahamas

Model: Pedro Mejias (right) Clothing: H & M

Model: Natakai Opato (left) Shirt: American Eagle

MMER HION

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Model: Kyle Harris Shirt: J.Willard Shorts: J.Willard Sandals: Ralph Lauren Model: Adrian Sanchez Shirt: H&M Shorts: Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Model: Michael Fitzgibbons Tailored Suit: H&M Blue Striped Shirt: Ralph Lauren Pink Cloth Tie: J.Willard Shoes: Sperryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Model: Adrian Sanchez Blazer: H&M Strip Shirt: J.Willard Skinny Tie: Rue 21 Camouflage Chinos: Rue 21 Loafers: J.Willard Pocket Square: Johann Fabrics

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N A S S AU , B A H A M A S BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

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Model: Michael Fitzgibbons (left) Fedora: Old Navy Shirt: H&M Shorts: J.Willard Shoes: Sperry’s

Model: Adrian Sanchez (middle) Shirt: Express for Men Shorts: J.Willard Loafers: J.Willard

Model: Kyle Harris Fedora: Old Navy Tank: Old Navy Denim Shirt: Rue 21 Shorts: J.Willard Shoes: Vans Model: Kyle Harris Blazer: J.Willard Shirt – Tommy Hilfiger Cargo Shorts: Model owned Loafers: J.Willard

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BRUTHA_FASHION FEATURE

Styled by J.Willard and assisted by Mya Canty Photographed by John McBride in Canton, Missouri, USA. 32 BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

Michael Fitzgibbons Fedora – Old Navy Blue Fish Printed Shirt – Wal-Mart Yellow Chinos – H&M Straw Loafers – Michael Fitzgibbons

Adrian Sanchez Blue Double Breasted Blazer – J.Willard Green & White Strip Shirt – J.Willard Plaid Skinny Tie – Rue 21 Camouflage Chinos – Rue 21 Cream Leather Loafers – J.Willard Pocket Square – Johann Fabrics

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BRUTHA_FACE IT

Why does a woman want to date a gorilla when she can date someone smooth?

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to For dating advice visit www.davidwygant.com

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I have a confession today that’s going to blow some of you away.

Something that you don’t know about me. Something that I believe all men should do. Something that will make you think,“Huh, David Wygant does it, maybe I should too.”

I’m sure you don’t really like that.

We expect them to be well-shaven, groomed, with Brazilian waxes and all that other great stuff.

Well let me tell you something, you need to return the favor. You need to man-scape, bro.

I usually man-scape with a mix of razors and a hair trimmer. But recently, I’ve been using a Philips Norelco BodyGroom, it’s kind of cool. You can trim your chest hair so they no longer First, let me ask you something. How poke out of your shirt. Which by the do you like it when you’re dating a way, is the number one thing that woman and she’s got hair everywhere? women think is absolutely repulsive on I’m talking about hair poking out of all men. kind of crazy different places.

So I’ve been using this fun little device.

You can fully shave yourself and if you want, you can use it in the shower. It really looks and feels like an electric shaver for your entire body.

You can do your sideburns as it adjusts to different lengths. You can shave the hair on your balls. Wait, you do shave your balls right? I hope so. But we’ll get into that another time.

So that’s my confession today.

I bodygroom.

Been doing it a long time. I do it because I think that it’s really respectable and considerate.

Why does a woman want to date a gorilla when she can date someone smooth? I’m never going to fully shave my body, I’m a man, I have hair—I should have hair.

But I’m going to make sure my hair is groomed and looking good, and I’m glad I picked up this really cool device, because it’s a lot better than using that razor.

So that’s my little tip for this issue.

Man up and manscape!

Man-Scape!

by David Wygant

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BRUTHA_MR. FITNESS

Ripped and Ready

By Mikhail Barnett

You’re Guide to a Sexy Summer Body.

Forearm Planks with Leg Pulses Place your forearm to the floor creating a straight line with your body. Then begin to lift and pulse your right leg contracting your gluts on each lift. Try for 20 – 30 reps then switch legs. Be sure to stay focused on your plank form by keeping your core engaged and your body in a straight alignment.

Forearm Planks with Leg Pulses Start with lying on your back with both feet to the floor. Tuck your feet under something sturdy or allow your workout partner to hold them. From there crunch your body all the way towards your knees simultaneously twisting your body to one side (alternating) then slowly returning to the floor. Try for 20- 30 reps.

Scissors with a Reach Start with lying on your back legs extended and on to the floor. Take both feet 6 inches off the floor. From there lift opposite hand and leg towards the sky and return to the start position alternating sides. Try for 10 – 20 reps. for a more intense feel try to touch your toes. If too much pressure is on your lower back try keeping your feet rested onto the floor and then lifting opposite leg and arm to the sky.

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For many of us this time of year is when we want our body to look at its best. We also tend to detoxify our body and get rid of built up toxins from excessive winter meals.

This issue will guide you to becoming ripped and healthy for life.

We all are trying to accomplish the same goal when we are working out which is to reduce our fat percentage but what is fat? Fat in humans is excessive flesh or fatty tissue that is broken down into two kinds of fat: Visceral Fat which is fatty tissue that covers your organs and protects

them and Subcutaneous Fat which is located between the skin and muscles; this fat in excessive percentage makes you look soft, smooth and bloated.

Having too much excessive fat affects you externally by the way your physique is shaped and internally by increasing the risk of developing different diseases such as cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure etc. One of the safest ways to reduce our fat percentage to a healthy range is through combining nutrition and exercise.

The most famous form of dieting is “calorie deficit and high protein/ vegetable diets”. Research has shown if females eat 1200 calories and males 1500 calories dominantly receiving those calories through proteins and vegetables along with intense exercise has shown results in weight lost. On the other hand a different nutritionist has suggested balanced meals for losing weight which is based on a 2,000 calorie diet. This will be 500- 600 calories from protein which will help the body repair and

rebuild muscle cells, 900- 1200 calories from carbohydrates which will supply the body with the energy to sustain you throughout the day and 15 – 20 % of healthy fat such as almonds, avocado, fish etc. At the end of the day we all try different forms of diets to lose weight but the trick to it all is “consistency and patience”. Be consistent with healthy eating habits and be patient with weight lost, if you took 5 years putting it all on give yourself a reasonable and feasible time to achieve your desired weight goal.

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Tha Hypnotist: Judah Tha Lio

by LaKeithra Taylor

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on

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

In every town, city, country and continent there’s that one individual that’s a spark.

That ignites and inspires everyone around them. Judah Seymour, stage name Judah Tha Lion, is that spark.

A newcomer to the Bahamian music scene he is the definition of what it is to be multi-talented and is quickly garnering and keeping the attention of local and international media as well as building and solidifying a fan base that transcends genres.

The front man for The Truth 242 and local actor appearing in praised films such as “Get Charlie” produced by Collage Entertainment, this guy is getting around.

We caught up with Judah to discuss the past, present and future of this artist on the rise.

#RAWTO 44

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OUR2013 BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Is your name biblical and why the name choice?

Yes. Judah is my given name, meaning praise, so I decided to use my real name to pay homage to the source of my talent (the most high) and I believe that name is in line with my purpose in life.

So would you consider yourself a religious or a spiritual being?

Spiritual not religious. I respect everyone’s belief because they have their own reasons for why they believe what they believe.

Everyone has gone through something that has helped him or her make the decisions they’ve made. I believe in order to coexist peacefully its essential that we respect each other’s beliefs.

Your musical influences, local and international are?

Locally they are- Lion of Judah, Christian Massive, Monty G, Mr. Lynx, Geo (no blowing bubbles) and Jah Hem. Internationally they are: Sizzla, Seu Jorge, Jamiroquai, Kendrick Lamar, Ab –Soul and Cold Play.

The local music industry is making progress. Where do you see ‘Bahamian’ music heading in the next 5-10 years?

I see it becoming a lot more organized and a lot more professional. I see it transcending genres and becoming a lot more diversified in terms of creativity and expanding and branching off more into the international arena because of those things. If we have anything to do with it this is where I see it heading.

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What made you want to pursue music, and a fullfledged musical career at that?

At first it was just a dream I had when I was younger and I noticed the glimpse of talent that I had and thought that one day I could sing and perform for people but I didn’t take the dream seriously until I began recording in 2010. That’s when I saw my song writing and vocal skills grow. I realized that not only could I make an impact locally but internationally as an artist and that was the encouragement and the drive I needed to continue to grow and push the boundaries and so far I have yet to see my limits.

You chant, you rap and you sing. With acting credits under your belt are there other things that you have lined up that will continue to show us just how diversified you are?

Yes, but once I become stronger in those fields they will be revealed. I thrive on the element of surprise and nothing will be revealed before its time. (smirk)

“Judah is my I decided to u to the source

given name, meaning praise, so use my real name to pay homage e of my talent...the most highâ&#x20AC;?

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BRUTHA_ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

#RAWTO 50

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You’ve been a staple performing at local social gathering spots as well as participating in internationally recognized concerts and the like.

Fresh off of a tour where you went to California, something that got you a lot of local media coverage in blogs and newspapers, websites and a strong social media buzz (twitter, facebook, etc) and with the dust settling now so to speak, what’s next in terms of your musical career?

My team and I are currently putting together a documentary of all of the footage that we’ve gathered over the course of the tour and we’re planning to release it this coming summer. The name of the documentary is Raw Tour 2013.

I am also releasing a full-length project called Raw Talent.

The names compliment each other and I’m excited about this project because it’s my first full-length project and the songs are very personal to me. They reveal certain aspects of my life that I wouldn’t normally mention or draw any attention to and I am excited to give something firstly to my core fans that are so hungry for the music and to my audience at large. It being my first project I feel that the name Raw Talent is fitting seeing as I’ve had no formal training in song writing and vocal technique.

It’s truly an examination of my raw skill and passion and I can only hope that audiences will appreciate and enjoy the project in its entirety.

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BRUTHA_FEEDING ME

Vegan Blueberry Banana Pancakes with Blueberry Maple Compote Pancakes: • 1 ripe banana, mashed into a paste • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour • 1/2 Flaxseed meal • 3/4 cup of vanilla almond milk • 1 tablespoon sugar • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 3 tablespoons baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt • 1/3 cup fresh blueberries • Olive oil cooking spray

Heat your flat griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. In a bowl blend mashed banana, flour, flaxseed meal, sugar, oil, baking powder and salt. Once batter is smooth, fold in blueberries with spoon. Lightly spray pan with olive oil cooking spray before making each pancake. Use less than a quarter cup of batter for each pancake. Cook each pancake on one side until bubbly on top and puffed up and dry around edges. Flip and cook on the other side. Serve by topping with fresh banana slices and blueberry maple compote.

Blueberry compote: • 1 cup of blueberry • 3 tablespoons of water • 1/4 cup of Maple Syrup

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In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, water and maple syrup over medium heat until reduced to half.

Top pancakes with compote.

Recipe By: Giovan Cooper Da Bahamian Vegan Follow him online: Instagram: da_bahamian_vegan Twitter: dabahamianvegan

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2011 CACIQUE AWARD WINNER

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242.472.0430 | 242.434.6864 | facebook.com/dotmillercollections |dotmillercollections@hotmail.com53 BRUTHA MAGAZINE // SUMMER ISSUE 2013

BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

What We Love About Being A Dad!

FATHER FIG

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GURE

By Craig Bain

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BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

The Ritchies.

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BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

The Ritchies.

How long have you been a father?

I have been a father for 14 years. My daughter is 14 and my son is 11 years old.

So what was going through your mind when you got the news that you would be a father? Were you excited, nervous, afraid and terrified?

I was excited! I was married and got divorced, after 2 years. When I got the news I was happy. I did some classes to prepare myself.

That exact moment when your 1st child was born, did you still feel the same way?

Nervous, Scared, Excited?.. How were you feeling?

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I was actually the 1st person to hold my daughter. I was still excited. My only concern was just cleaning her off first before I hold her. It was a good experience and I wouldn’t trade it for the world!

it. Men have such a bad rap compared to men of the past that even though us younger fathers are trying to do better, the bad rap is still in people’s head. But it doesn’t move me, I do what I must and I enjoy being a father.

How do you rate father’s day as compared to mother’s day? Do you think fathers get enough love and recognition?

No, in society a lot of things we do as fathers get taken for granted. We make the money and give it to the mother and she goes out and buys stuff and the children don’t see the work fathers put in. They only see that the mother bought them what they needed, not knowing that the father actually provided for

Do you find yourself using some of the same parenting techniques as your parents did?

My parents were old school. I was punished by not having something I liked and getting a beating. What’s funny is that my mom did most of the beating when I was younger. Unless it was something serious or major my father would step in but other than that, my father gave mom the authority to run the

“In society a lot of things we do as fathers get taken for granted.”

house and she did it. I had to reprimand my daughter once in 14 years with the belt. Now my son, I can’t say how many times I had to reprimand him, too many times to count.

How has fatherhood changed your life?

It has changed my life in that it has made me more grounded and focused with regards to life itself. Fatherhood made me more responsible and taught me how to think before I act. It made me a better person. My kids keep me focused and if I wasn’t a father I would just probably be working and spending my money on cars or buying property or something. But as a father I’m thinking about my children’s future and how I can give them a jump

start. I have to think about them now, and it’s a humbling experience.

Next up is Carlo. He talks about the advice he would give fathers, how he wants to be remembered as a father, his biggest fear, and what has been the most rewarding thing about being a father.

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T

“I want to be remembered as a father who was always there. I did everything to make sure that my kids are happy.”

The Ramseys.

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BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

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he Ramseys.

How long have you been a father?

What is your biggest fear being a father?

My oldest daughter is 7. So I’ve been a father My daughters leaving home! In such a short for 7 years. space of time, they grew on me so much that I am so used to being there for them So what was going through your mind and coming home to them and picking when you got the news that you would be up and dropping them off to school. I fear a father? Were you excited, nervous, afraid the day when that ends and their little and terrified? boyfriends come to pick them up or when I guess, I was a little excited. they are old enough to drive themselves. I pray I am here to see them into adulthood.

That exact moment when your 1st child was born, did you still feel the same way?

On to a lighter topic…What has been the Nervous, Scared, Excited?.. How were you most rewarding thing so far about being a feeling? father?

I was excited. I cried. And things my Just them! It’s so hard to describe at times, daughters do, like kids will be kids but just it’s like when I have a hard day at work, the things my daughters do now keeps me a long day and when I go home and my excited like dance recitals and stuff like that. kids are there and they smile at me and are happy and before I can even get inside What advice would you give fathers out and close the door, they are hanging on my there today, struggling or having a difficult feet! It’s like what you see on TV sometimes, time adjusting to this new role? it happens with real fathers. When I’m Take it one day at a time. Know that we not home my daughters miss me, they are not perfect but you have to say your don’t want me to go anywhere and just to prayers and get on your knees and pray for have that feeling that I’m wanted by my strength and understanding. Every time daughters and that they want me to be you get up and you don’t want to do this or around is amazing! you don’t want to go to work, you have to remember that you’re not living for yourself It’s so easy for a father to have children than anymore. You have a family and you have it is for children to have a father. Being a a child to take care of so just take the bull father can be a wonderful experience. It’s a by the horn, be a man, be responsible and job that comes with responsibility and the take care of your child. If you don’t want that possibility of failure. With that possibility of responsibility or if you don’t want to take failure however, also comes the possibility care of your child, then don’t have any. They to succeed. The first step to be a great dad is don’t ask to be here, so if they are here you to just be there! have to make sure they’re straight!

Our last dad is Freddie who talks about How do you want to be remembered as a some of the things he and his father father? did while he was growing up, who else I want to be remembered as a father who he looked up to as a father figure when was always there. I did everything to make growing up, what he thinks about fathers sure that my kids are happy, provided the that don’t stick around for their children, things that they needed and some of the and some values he instills in his daughter. things that they want. I want to be there for them, I want to go to their wedding and graduations and that sort of stuff!

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BRUTHA_FEATURE STORY

How long have you been a father?

I have been a father for 6 years.

So what was going through your mind when you got the news that you would be a father? Were you excited, nervous, afraid and terrified?

I was all, excited, nervous and scared.

It was something I never went through before in my life, being responsible for another person. First and foremost you just hope to have 10 fingers and 10 toes and that everything works the way it’s supposed to.

That exact moment when your 1st child was born, did you still feel the same way?

Nervous, Scared, Excited?.. How were you feeling?

Excitement took over! With my first child, cigars, drinks, excitement took over! I was excited she was safe and she got here successfully!

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What type of things did you and your father do together?

Well, me and my dad’s interests were different. I’m a sports fanatic and he’s not. But every weekend he used to pick up all his kids and we used to go to McDonalds or to the park or to the beach. We had time to just chill out with him. He wouldn’t miss a graduation or basketball game or award ceremony and he was around for everything and the older I got and when I started to get responsibilities of my own, we became friends. We went from like father and son to like boys. He is my boy now!

Who else did you look up to as a father figure when growing up?

Yeah, daddy had a bunch of brothers but there is Mr. Bowe from across the street, he stood out the most. He was a store owner and a lot of times we would go in there and he knew we didn’t have

The

any money, but he would still let us get something to eat or drink. You know our parents wouldn’t know, but he knew.

He would let you get something, ice cream or something, he was a staple in our community. He didn’t live in the community, but it was just like he was a part of it because he was there for so long. From since I knew myself Mr. Bowe was across the street. Other than Mr. Bowe, there were teachers at school, Mr. Knowles, Mr. Culmer, my physical education teachers. I always liked sports so they were around me the most. They influenced me coming up because they were around me the most.

In society, we find single parent homes to be the norm. Men get women pregnant and shy away from their responsibilities as fathers to provide and take care of their kids. Why did you decide to stick around when leaving is so easy?

“She and I have an understanding; once she gets good grades she will be rewarded.”

Lightbournes Guys’ leaving home is a touchy situation for me because it makes me angry. I think its the cowardly way out. I wasn’t ready for a child when my daughter came, but the moment she came; I realized that everything I wanted was second to what she wanted. I take it as a responsibility and as an honor to be responsible for someone else. Her happiness brings me happiness. It brings me joy being able to communicate with her.

I stayed because it’s what should be done. She is my child and regardless of the situation with me and her mother, she never has to wonder where I am and if she can see me and if I can pay her school fees. Just like my father did with me, she will have everything she ever needs and most of what she wants.

But I think men that leave their kids are cowards. How could you be comfortable living your life and not knowing if your

child ate today? A lot of guys are out there partying and living their life and are not sure if their children are okay and it’s so selfish. Selfishness and being a coward is the only way I see it. I don’t see my daughter every day, but two days won’t ever pass by without me calling to check up on her, but I guess some guys are built a bit differently.

As a father what values do you instill in your children?

Work hard because no one is giving you anything. She is going to have a head start because I’m giving her more than my parents gave me. She and I have an understanding; once she gets good grades she will be rewarded. She is a girl so I also give her “girl rules” here and there. She is only 6 years old so I’m just slipping them in but the older she gets the more in depth I’ll get with the “girl rules”.

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he Lightbournes

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

Damalus Curry Started from the bottom, now heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s here.

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Whenever you hear of an ‘Island boy’ making it in the big city, you’ll probably think along the lines of Barack Obama hailing from Hawaii. However, right in our very own backyard we can find reputable Bruthas making it big in the city.

This issue’s Man on The Rise comes all the way from the Exuma Islands in The Bahamas. He has started his company from the ground up and is now on his way to creating a competitive advantage over other big media conglomerates. He is none other than Damalus Curry, Founder & CEO of Bahamas Outdoor Media.

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

We got a chance to sit down with Brutha Damalus Curry and here is what we gathered: Who would you say is Damalus Curry?

A simple, happy and humble guy who puts God and family first before the rest of my life begins. I’m highly motivated with lots of energy. Enjoy vacationing, reading, golfing, finding new and exciting ways to make money. My Media Group consists of two companies – Bahamas Outdoor Media (Outdoor Advertising) and Scentpression (Scent Marketing).

What were some of your childhood hobbies?

I used to shoot and hustle marbles, fix and build bikes from scratch, play basketball with crate or old tire rim as the basket. All the old things you don’t even see kids do these days. I enjoyed the outdoor beaching and fishing.

Did you attend college? If so, what did you major in?

Didn’t go to college.

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When did the urge to start your business first hit?

At a young age, fresh out of high school I worked in a family owned business. By the age of 19 I had started my first business “Confidence Debt Collection” with the help of an uncle who mentored and helped develop the work ethics I have today.

Although business has always been a part of my life, for a few years I wasn’t interested in business but only in whatever it took to become successful; through many attempts both good and bad. After regaining focus and becoming diligent about my attitude in life, I created a plan which birthed “Bahamas Outdoor Media Ltd.”

Name your biggest achievement as an entrepreneur thus far?

I would say my biggest achievement thus far is still being in business. I had the ambition to continue doing what I’m doing right now and persisted when others had said I couldn’t do it. I prevailed and tenacity was a big part of it. I didn’t give up. I didn’t quit!

If I was an investor and you had 60 seconds of my time, tell me about your service and what it is that you do?

competitors, we passionately forgo the one-size-fits-all mentality that often plagues this booming industry. We meet clients’ needs from start to finish, offering clients the most compelling medium to sell our customers’ products effectively and economically.

We enjoy a reputation in the out-of-home industry of consistently exceeding customer expectations from design to production to installation; we arrange every detail of the process for clients.

So once you got started, how long was it before you saw any real profit?

In my first fiscal year in business I made no money - it was all about planning, strategy and product development. The second year we introduced our services and clients jumped onboard immediately.

Within six months of our second fiscal year we started to see profits grow.

What are some of the pressures and/or stresses involved in being a business owner?

The majority of my stress is just having too many thoughts bouncing around in my head – then trying to figure out the most important one and concentrating on that first! There is a lot of pressure put on me, but I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself. I see every negative, pressure and challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Bahamas Outdoor Media is a focused, innovative, outof-home Media Company that has rapidly emerged as one of the industry’s premier advertising firms in The Bahamas. Dedicated to providing superior, personalized service exclusive from our more mass-minded

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BRUTHA_MAN ON THE RISE

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Do you believe there are sufficient resources in The Bahamas and/or Caribbean for individuals to start a business?

If we look at resources in terms of finances, no.

However I’ve come to the realization that you don’t need resources to start a business even though it plays a vital role. Starting a business only requires faith and belief in oneself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication.

In regards to your companies, is this all Damalus or do you have partners?

It’s me along with my wife - we’re the principals of our companies. However, each and every one of our clients is considered our partners in business.

Why do you think you survived in the marketplace?

Our approach to business is far different from other marketing companies here in The Bahamas. We own all of our advertising locations. That helps us to reduce the cost of advertising for our clients, giving them more opportunities to reach their clients.

And how are you thriving today?

By staying focused on creating the life I want through persistent goal setting. Persistent effort to do the best possible under any and all circumstances.

Above all, how does Damalus differentiate himself from the competition?

I don’t believe in competition - It’s that simple. There is enough business for everyone to benefit from.

We remain focused on providing our clients with exceptional services and strategy to promote their brands. Focusing on competition is only a distraction in business. My main focus is business. “If it don’t make money, it don’t make sense”. I don’t ever listen to other’s expectations especially when it comes to my businesses. We set our own terms and live up to my own expectations, and those are the only things I really care about – competing with ourselves to become better!

How do you feel about Globalization?

As the whole pace of business is moving faster globalization has changed us into a company that searches the world – not just to sell our services but also to find talent, products and great ideas. It’s forcing us to do things in new ways.

What are your future plans?

As we continue to build our brands, we’re also looking to form strategic partnerships or purchase companies that fit into our portfolio and future growth plans.

We’re currently working on a new advertising medium that would position us far above the rest in this current industry. Within the coming months I would be entering the financial service sector with a new joint venture, which is geared toward making it easy for more Bahamians to become home owners. So the future is exciting and promising so far.

Any words for those Brutha’s who wish to follow in your footsteps?

When you feel like giving up, remember why you started. Get over the fear you have of making mistakes.

It’s simply another way of doing things. Expect to make them every day, and welcome them as a sign that you’re moving in the right direction.

Be true to yourself; know your strengths and weaknesses, your interests and opportunities. Be able to gauge not only where you have been, but also where you want to go. Otherwise you cannot set a course for where you want to go. And of course, every time you want to learn something, you must be able to take the new things you’ve learned today and build upon what you learned yesterday to keep growing. That’s the only way to gain traction and keep improving you.

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BRUTHA_TECH&GADGETS

Which suits you?

Samsung Galaxy s4 or The Apple iPhone 5?

There has been lots of back and forth between the two recent phone launches of tech giants Apple and Samsung. As expected, the Apple cult continues to rave about the power and seamless technology Apple provides as the same

with Samsung users worldwide. Let’s see how they match.

At day’s end, the Samsung s4 currently resides as the more popular model by way of technology, units sold and feedback.

Samsung has shipped some 10 million

units globally in just 28 days of launching the s4 whereas Apple shipped just 5 million in 3 days of launching the iPhone 5 late last year (a huge flop for the tech giant). However, I’m certain Tim Cook is working on an all new iPhone model to supersede the s4. iPhone 5S anyone?

Feature Samsung s4 iPhone 5 Price

$658.95 (amazon.com)

$649 (16GB) $749 (32GB) $849 (64GB)

Design

7.7mm thick, plastic rear

7.6mm thick, aluminium rear

Screen

1080p, 4.99-inch Super AMOLED

640 x 1136 pixel, 4-inch IPS

Storage 16 GB baseline, microSD slot 16GB baseline, 32GB and 64GB models available, non-expandable CPU/GPU Qualco,, Snapdragon 600 1.9 GHz CPU, Apple A6 dual-core 1.2 GHz, 1 GB RAM, 2 GB RAM PowerVR SGX 543 GPU

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Software

Android 4.2 with TouchWiz

iOS 6.1

Camera

13-megapixel sensor, LED flash

8-megapixel sensor LED flash

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By Dapne Smith-Butler

BAHAMA BEAUTY TOMII CULMER

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Styled by Tamar Moss Photographed by Roderick Wells Location: Nassau, Bahamas

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A native of Grand Bahama, Tomii burst on to the scenes fresh out of high school.

Pageantry was one of her first ventures.

However, then 17 year old Tomii already knew that the glitter and glam of pageantry was not her true love.

Now in her early 20’s she has never been more confident that modeling has her heart, and she intends to never let it go.

Who can blame her! After being chosen as this year’s Campari Caribbean Poster Girl, it is clear that Tomii has found her calling. Tomii has never been more determined and now dedicates her time to the industry .

2013 has definitely been a year of many firsts for Tomii and she is still taking it all in!

“Gosh, it is overwhelming.

It still hasn’t quite hit me yet though.”

Admitting that the Campari Competition is her most favorite project to date, she says competitions aren’t exactly what she has in mind when it comes to modeling.

“I’ve always steered clear of competitions but I’m definitely glad I made the decision to compete because it landed me this special feature. It most certainly looks good on my resume.”

Staying true to her skin, Tomii prefers to dress how she feels. This sexy Bahamian model can easily go from subtle to flirtatious like night turns to day!

“One day it may be “hippy” the next I may be feeling myself and turn the sexy up to 100 [haha]. Having one style is pretty boring if you ask me”

Tomii is not short of talents. Aside from singing, this down home girl can sew up an outfit, ready for a night out on the town, complimenting her eclectic fashion.

Being ever humble, Tomii is grateful for her beginnings. She admits to starting out “far from polished” and credits Leshan Ferguson, make-up artist from Divine Beauty Inc for the grooming process and Kerel Pinder, former Miss Grand Bahama.

Despite all the hustle and bustle of the city life Tomii remains true to her strong family bond. Especially with her mother, with whom she speaks everyday! Much needed advice from her mom keeps this Bahama Beauty grounded, especially that occasional “you need to slow down” chat!

The modeling industry can be tough, but Tomii stays grounded and encourages young and aspiring models to do the same.

“I always say if you’re not up for making sacrifices, investing in yourself and taking risks I personally don’t think it will be a long-lived career. This is a career that requires you to step out of your comfort zone most of the time.

Don’t ever lose sight of who you are and what you stand for but nobody likes a “diva” attitude. You’re the talent but the client is far more important and it helps to have a pleasant spirit if you want your way”.

Having traveled to St. Lucia, Bermuda, Guyana, New York and soon Atlanta, one can’t help but wonder what is next for our Bahama Beauty.

“You’ll just have to keep following me to find that out now! A girl has to get her social media numbers up [laughs out loud]”.

BAHAMA BEAUTY TOMII CULMER

Tall, Slim, and Gorgeous! This 5’11 Island Queen is everything a man can dream of and did I mention she’s one of our own?

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“Don’t ever los are and what nobody likes a

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se sight of who you you stand for but a diva attitude.”

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Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Polo Shirt Bahamas Independence 2012 Collection.

Available at Potpourri and Potpourri Too

Facebook: Keisha Oliver

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Twitter: @Keisha_Oliver

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BRUTHA_CRUISE CONTROL

CRUISE CONTROL The 2013 2013 Lexus GS350

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PERFORMANCE Lexus engineers traveled the equivalent of 26 times around the Earth to create the ideal driving feel. By widening the track almost two inches and increasing the body rigidity through additional optimally placed spot- and laser-weld points, the result is a vehicle that will change the way you see Lexus.

TECHNOLOGY Available Lexus Enform and Safety Connect offer more than the convenience of live, 24-hour navigation assistance and the ability to request emergency services at the press of a button. With the new App Suite, you can make dinner reservations and order movie tickets on the fly using the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first available 12.3-inch highresolution split-screen multimedia display.

COMFORT & DESIGN We approached the interiorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design as you would a room in your home. We gave it a more commanding stance and a lower posture for invigorating handling. And we infused it with innovative technology that empowers drivers to do more. The result: a Lexus you have to experience to believe.

SAFET Y While an ordinary crash test dummy can provide 119 data points, Lexus uses digital models comprised of millions. The result of such an innovative approach to safety: The GS is equipped with a classleading 10 standard airbag system that includes an all-new sideimpact airbag design to help provide additional support for the rib cage and upper arm.

PROS Gorgeous styling, rowdy engine, responsive transmission, supremely comfortable seats CONS Robotic steering, overly ambitious infotainment system, occasional whiff of a Toyota inside Source: - Steve Siler (caranddriver.com)

MSRP Starting @ $47,250 Source: - Lexus.com

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BRUTHA_BRUTHAMAN

Here’s why it’s totally spiritual just to vent!

“No one can create negativity or stress within you. Only you can do that by virtue of how you process your world.”

I live a very unique life in that the majority of people that I hang out with are on some kind of spiritual path. It would be a path of yoga or meditation, or A Course In Miracles or MSIA, Christianity, Buddhism, The Landmark Forum, life coaching, 12-step; you name a spiritual path and I most likely have a friend who is on it.

It’s totally rad to be surrounded by so many amazing and diverse folks.

to formulate the perfect sentence that matches your personal growth dogma!

THEN - after that’s happened - if the person is READY and WILLING, step into problem solving.

I think one of the most powerful things we as human beings can do is to listen. And listen without judgment or the need to fix. To accept as perfect wherever someone is in the moment and not try to “fix” them with our spiritual tool kit.

They are all growing, all Loving and all about getting back to love.

A lot of my friends are coaches and sometimes I’m just trying to vent to them and they immediately go into “coach” mode, instead of just listening as a friend. Yes, I know I have limiting beliefs. I know that what happens is because I’m triggered by some event.

I know I have to take responsibility for my life. And you know what... sometimes I just gotta be human and vent.

So - here’s an idea if you are having this issue. Instead of just starting to vent - preface your friend or partner and say, “I need to vent for a minute.

Can you hear me out?” This preps them to be able to be ready to receive and meet your need of venting without trying to coach you. Then, afterwards once you feel like you’ve been heard, feel free to say, “Ok, now I’m open to feedback.”

BUT - there is one little thing I’m feeling inspired to write about today.

Sometimes when we live in a world like this, we tend to have almost our own language. It’s not like a normal dialog. In every day conversation we are talking about limiting beliefs, your growing edge, your inner child, connecting to Source/God, meditation, projections, integrity and other things of this sort.

And I love this stuff because it’s who I am, but sometimes - I just gotta vent.

And I’m noticing this trend that in a lot of circles, that’s not OK, because it seems “negative” or “unspiritual” to vent. But come on people, we are all human and it’s just nice to be heard sometimes without needing

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- Wayne Dyer

This helps us be human and grow at the same time!

So where in your life could you set this boundary with someone or where in your life could you stop trying to fix someone and just listento them?

It’s vital that we keep growing and support ourselves by surrounding ourselves with people who will lift us up. And at the same time, the journey is also about fully stepping into and accepting our human nature - without trying to fix anything.

As always, the action happens over on the blog; head on over there and leave a comment on my blog “Here’s why it’s totally spiritual just to vent! “ and join in the conversation! The TDL Community thrives in the comments and it’s a great place to get support!

I really believe that two of the most powerful tools we have are selfacceptance and being seen/heard in a way that meets us right where we are.

Lots of Love, Mastin

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

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Visit: www.thedailylove.com

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NEXT ISSUE COMING FALL 2013!

www.bruthamagazine.com

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