Atlanta
TASTEMAKER
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
Independently
major
TLC Celebrates
Paul Morton
20In Years Music
Young Money Records Newest Artist
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ROMANTIC DATE SPOTS FOR V-DAY
INSPIRATIONAL
LOVE
Couples Declare That True Love Still Exist 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 1
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able Of CONTENTS
VOLUME II . ISSUE I . JANUARY/FEBRUARY
IN EVERY ISSUE
7 Editor’s Letter 10 Contributors Director’s Note 11 23 Events Around 23 5Atlanta 31 Tastemaker Spotlight 57 Press Pass Food For Thought 57 60 Natarsha Garcia
recipes to live for
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FASHION
12
Let’s Hear It For the Boys
Real men discuss what they really want to see their woman in for Valentine’s Day!
14 Fashion that gives back Brands that merge fashion with philanthropy.
7 BEAUTY
19
New Year, New You The first American owned and operated brand that provides premium virgin hair, direct from India is transforming women everywhere.
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“Crazy I tell you, all of this in the middle of a club | where words tend to get thrown around lightly like ‘love’ and ‘friends’ and ‘rock star’ and ‘so and so’s a genius’…” –Andre 3000
FEATURES
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Alvin Ailey
Alvin Ailey Dance Theater is coming to Atlanta and they are moving in a new direction under new leadership.
24 PJ Morton
PJ discusses family, career and his decision to sign with Young Money Records.
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TLC
Crazy, Sexy, Cool 20 years in the music industry.
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27
EDITOR’S LETTER
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We can probably all agree with Andre’s lyrics from his collaboration with Jeezy and new dad Jay-Z’s single “I Do”; some words get over used, taken lightly, and as a result, they eventually lose its value. If you’ve ever known someone who calls everyone their friend, you can rest assured that they truly don’t know the meaning of the word and their relationships are superficial at best. We do the same thing with the word “love.” We tell people that we’re fond of or like a whole lot that we “love” them because of the feeling they give us. What I’ve learned through this journey as the Editor of ATM, is love is more than just a feeling. It’s more than a fleeting idea that is rooted in a secretly selfish need or desire. Love is a commitment to something or someone that is not based on self. Love is selfless and gives of itself despite what it can do for you. Love is unconditional. I’ve been able to take my professional and personal experiences to develop this newfound understanding of love, and in that same spirit, this will be the last issue you will read my name in the masthead of this magazine.
I’ve watched ATM blossom into a publication that has made a name for itself; nearly half a million digital views later, ATM is a natural manifestation of our love for all things positive and, of course, fabulous! We’ve always believed in doing things in the spirit of excellence and our love for God has propelled this magazine to levels we never imagined. Where am I going, you ask? I’m on the hot pursuit of purpose! If you follow me on Twitter (@dstarwriter59) or read my blog (www.findthepieces.com), you know that my love for God and His perfect will for my life fuels every decision I make. When He says move, I move. Hence, my time at ATM is up! I know I leave all of my writers, editors, and my dear friend and Editorial Director Tiffini in a place of upward movement. Trust me, you’ll see me pop my head in here and there – that’s what love does, you know. Even in the physical separation, love remains, lingering, forever present. I hope you enjoy this issue – it’s chocked full of love! I challenge you to assess who and what you love! Consider and define what love is! Once you solidify, act on it! Show your style of love to all and everything you can!
Best, Alisha L. Gordon Editor-in-Chief 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 7
LIVING
42 Romantic Getaways 46 Music Inspires Food! 49 Cars to Look out 50for in 2012 Day Hot 53Valentine’s Spots It’s a Family Affair Two sister create a gourment tea brand that’s amazingly chic!
From Georgia to the Caribbean we’ve found some amazing destinations to kick off your New Year. B.B. Kings music inspired restaurant feeds the soul
32 FEATURES
25
cont.
42
The Grammys Invest in Future Artists
Grammy U Los Angeles student Satarra Troutman shares her passion for winning.
39 Book Nook 40
Love & Relationships Yvonne Chase talks to single about “The List”
Author Keisha Kuma shares books you should be reading in the New Year
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January/February
Atlanta
Tastemaker Magazine
OUR TEAM
Tiffini Gatlin Editorial Director
NOTE
Alisha L. Gordon Editor-In-Chief
volume II. Issue 1
Deena Poythress Fashion Editor
Erin Kassari Contributor
Nekessa Smith Contributor
Andrea Janise Lifestyle Editor
Denise Bussey Contributor
Arian Thigpen Editor
10 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
Kirsten Fuller Contributor
Happy New Year!
Ruksana Hussain Contributor
Are you not excited about the unlimited possibilities that await you in this New Year? I know i’m literally about to burst with excitement! We’ve always had them but the New Year makes most of us feel like we have a refresh button we can use in order to get ourselves back on the playing field. Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine, is moving in a positive direction, with awesome people who believe in our organizations mission and vision.
Chanda Scott Photographer
So what can you expect from us this year you ask? More engagement, innovative ways to connect to our content, strategic partnerships that benefit our readers and lots of fun events that puts Tastemaker at the feet of our readers! We want to hear from you often. Email us your content ideas at editor@tastemakermag.com, Tweet us at @tastemakermag.com, Like us on facebook at Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine and Pin with us on pinterest. We’re literally everyplace our readers are.
In this issue we focused on music and love. If you remember we started a fabulous partnership with the Grammy Atlanta office, as a way to keep our hands on the pulse of music and entertainment in Atlanta. We focused on love because...Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and we found 10 of the most romantic places you can take your sweetie on Valentine’s Day. We also talked to a few good men and asked them if Victoria is really what they want to see at the end of the day! We talked with Chilli of TLC about staying relevant after 20 years in the music industry, her love life and her new role as producer on TLC’s new biopic. Be sure to check that story out on page 27. I love all the stories in this issue but I would be remise if I didn’t add that all the love stories we received to become a featured couple in this month’s issue had me in tears for two reasons. First I saw couples who demonstrated unconditional love and second I had an opportunity to meet couples who overcame obstacles and I want to thank you for a renewed ming. If you read our editor’s letter on page 7, you’ll know that this is her last issue with us, and a lot of people have been questioning if she is leaving under bad terms. Absolutely not! We remain encouraged and excited for our sister and support her in her personal pursuit to happiness. One thing I learned in 2011 that I proudly took with me in 2012 is a that people are in your life for a season and once that season has expired you have to be okay with letting them bloom in their own season. Be encouraged Tastemakers! Chat with me @theatlgo2girl .
Tiffini Gatlin, Editorial Director 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 11
Our first guy, U.S. Army Property Book NCOIC Andrew Booker, imagines his girlfriend Imani in a finger length, red, Kardashianstyle, form-fitting dress that is sexy enough to race his heart yet appropriate for a nice dinner in the city. His preferred pair of heels to complete this look would be a red peep toe pump. Sexy yet sophisticated is ideal for him.
Deena Poythress Every year around the 14th of February, love begins to fill the air and ladies fill the malls looking for that special piece that will bring a flutter to the heart of the man she loves. Sex appeal is always a key characteristic for her look, but what exactly is it that her man would like to see his love in on this day of eros? While in search for the perfect attire, we came across a few opinionated guys who gave us their perspective of what makes a hot Valentine’s night look.
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Apprentice White of Chicago, Illinois, would love to see his wife Teresa in a sexy dress, but city nights there come with a cool, brisk Lake Michigan breeze. Instead, Apprentice's V-Day outfit consists of tight denim pants plunged into a pair of leather thigh high boots with a red top, which is his favorite color. He loves comfortably cute with a bit of edge. Of course I could not pass by this opportunity to get in the head of my own husband to get some hints on what would turn his attention my way this romantic holiday. Abraham Poythress, my own Valentine, said he would like to see me in a black lace cocktail dress with a pair of black booties to spice things up. He is looking for the vintage look with a modern spin on his Valentine’s night.
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http://le-gypsie-children.tumblr.com/post/9315830130
EAT YOUR HEART OUT fashion that gives back! By: D.R. Bussey
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Get om your philanthorpy soapbox with Soap Box Soaps that donates a bar of soap to a child with each purchase.
Send a percentage of your pink pony purchase to aid with breast cancer awareness
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There’s no better feeling than a session of retail therapy unless, of course, you’re giving back while throwin’ it in the bag! Several brands give you that mushy feeling equivalent to giving a homeless person a dollar or volunteering at a senior center, while getting your fashion fix. Most of us are familiar with TOMS, a shoe brand that gives a pair of shoes to a child with every pair purchased. Another very recognizable brand that gives directly to a cause is Ralph Lauren’s Pink Pony. The purchase of specifically branded Pink Pony items sends a percentage to breast cancer awareness 16 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
as well as to the Ralph Lauren Cancer Care Center in affiliation with the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Center. The foundation’s main goal is to screen, treat and provide preventative measures to areas that are underserved. On an international level of awareness Edun, created by recording artist Bono and wife Ali Hewson, provides more agricultural advantages to African farmers by gearing their products toward organic cotton. The brand was also created with the intent to create more willingness to do business in Africa. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 17
If you want a direct buy and give back effect Soap Box Soaps donates a bar to a child for everyone purchased. While not quite in the fashion category, these bars smell delicious and will undoubtedly make you feel invigorated.
Eco- friendly 100 percent UV sunglasses are handcrafted retro bamboo.-$180
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Kayu gives twenty dollars toward surgeries that restore sight in developing countries when you purchase a pair of their funky shades. Want a matching handbag? Go ahead and splurge because that purchase sends fifteen dollars toward school supplies, including a backpack, so while you rock your bag in style a kid goes to school with a smile.
I D Q
There aren’t many people who will say that coming home with something shiny and new doesn’t give them a an extra pep in their step. Add a good deed to that and your expenditures are sure to have you floating!
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N I U
Virgin Hair Extensions This Shireen straw & wood clutch with faux suede lining comes in 4 fun colors - $415
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BY: CARMEN BLAKELY
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A new year brings new beginnings. We resolve to lose those extra pounds, pay off credit cards, and a host of other things. We sometimes forget the obvious, our look, and style (or not), you know, the outward appearance. One of the biggest, most noticeable changes is hair. It completes our look, and for some, becomes a defining attribute. Hair extensions are quite possibly one of the easiest ways you can transform your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;do. Want a short straight bob or a shoulder length curly mane? No problem. Weave installations, wigs and clip-ins, in hours or minutes give you the ability to try hair down to your waist or a texture never explored. Hence, why, hair companies have become the forefront in the beauty industry. Tastemakers have been very vocal about the quality of hair they not only like, but demand. Indique Hair has become an authority on 100% Remy Hair extensions.
Founder Ericka Dotson
Hair companies have become the forefront in the beauty industry. Tastemakers have been very vocal about the quality of hair they not only like, but demand. Indique Hair has become an authority on 100% Remy Hair extensions. The company was started in 2006 by Ericka Dotson and Krishan Jhalani. It is the first American owned and operated brand that provides premium virgin hair, direct from India. It has not been treated with harsh chemicals and is groomed with natural oils. The cuticle is smooth and runs in the same direction so the hair is smooth and will behave much like your own hair. Indique caters to every woman by offering a variety of styles. Indique hair has become a celebrity fave; Angela Simmons rocks the Pure wavy, Ciara the Pure straight, Bre Sculark Hysteria in chocolate.
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The hair can be used for up to a year or more. Since Indiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hair is 100% human it can be washed, blow dried, straightened and curled. With reinforced wefts (a huge point of difference) the hair resists excessive shedding and retains its original fullness and length. Indique has boutiques in Boston, New York City, Queens and Nashville. Not planning a trip to the aforementioned? Indique has over 250 partner salons across the country. You can also shop online at www.indiquehair.com or by calling (877) 556-4247.
2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 21
5
ARTS & CULTURE EV ENTS
AROUND ATLANTA BY: MONICA THORP E
MEMPHIS, the 2010 Tony® Award Winner for Best Musical, and the show that’s currently blowing the roof off Broadway, will play a limited engagement at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre from January 31-February 5, as part of the Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2011-12 season! Tickets start at $28. Buy here.
ALVIN AILEY’s Historic Performance Since Judith Jamison’s tenure at The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, the school has been regarded as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World”, that has practically changed forever the perception of American dance. The Company is now led by Robert Battle, who, Judith Jamison chose to succeed her on July, 1, 2011. We were interested in what was in store for the organization and the plans for their historic engagement in Atlanta starting on February 17th at the Fabulous Fox Theatre. Renaldo Garnder, one of thirty dancers in the Dance Theater, shared his views on why this year’s performance in Atlanta will be such an historic event. “In addition to this being the first year that Artistic Director Robert Battle 22 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
has taken over the Dance Theater, we are premiering two new pieces. One of their first pieces is entitled Home, which is a hip hop piece inspired by stories that were submitted to fight HIV/AIDS.” Garnder adds that this piece will be great because it pays tribute to Mr. Ailey who died from HIV. Many want to know what direction Battle will take the Dance Theater, and Gardner remains optimistic about its future. “Mr. Battle wants dancers to be human beings. He wants his dancers to dance spiritually and emotionally and that’s the direction he’s moving the Theater along.” The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater is launching an inspiring new era for the millions of people who appreciate their creativity. We expect to be wowed and humbled by the performances as well as finding our revelation! For more information on tickets go here.
Known as the people’s mayor, Maynard Jackson and the Politics of Transformations traveling exhibit will feature various photos and major accomplishments through out his career. You can visit the exhibit at the Atlanta University Robert W. Woodruff Library. The Green Room, in connection with Actors for Autism is now offering special needs acting classes! Please join them for a FREE Open House on Saturday February 4th, from 10 am - 12pm. Meet the teachers/ aides, get class previews, plus registration for upcoming classes and light refreshments! 404-351-4736
Need a religious experience? Now until April 30.2012 celebrate the 400th Birthday of the King James Bible by exploring the exhibit Passages. From the amazing artifacts to numerous interactive areas, Passages is a must see!
Originally the founder of Coca-Cola company house turned mental hospital, The Mansion on Emory's Briarcliff has been a sight to see for years. Atlanta based photographer Brian McGrath Davis will be showcasing his fascination of the house through photos. Are you ready for the wild ride?
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PJ MORTON Independently Major
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YOUNG TASTEMAKER
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A Southern drawl spiked with the inflections only found in the place we affectionately call “Nawlins,” PJ Morton has made a name for himself as the “fly nerd” whose vocal ability will make you flirt with, find, and stay in love with an album. A musical trifecta, Morton has left musical footprints all over the globe as the keyboardist for Grammy Award winning group Maroon 5 and newest member of the infamously famous Young Money Entertainment. Morton is responsible for Gospel hits “Let Go” by Dwayne Woods and Trinity 5:7’s “Over and Over,” but his passion for music has crossed various boundaries from Gospel to neo-soul to pop. The son of renowned Bishop Paul Morton of Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church (which relocated to Atlanta from New Orleans after hurricane Katrina) had much to say about his newfound venture with Young Money, the record label that is home to artists like Lil’ Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and crooner/rapper Drake. “I’m still ‘independently major,’” explains Morton. “A major deal doesn’t mean I stop grinding. You can’t wait for the ‘machine’ to do it for you. The indie grind hasn’t stopped and never will.” Morton’s transition to Young Money seemed to be in the cards; YM’s president Mack Maine was a high school classmate of Morton’s. Their relationship over the years stayed intact, and when the time was right, the two reunited. “A mutual friend linked us back up and Maine got a chance to hear the music. Before you knew it, we had a deal on the table. He believed in my music – everything just made sense.” Morton’s fans know him as someone who has made a career as an independent artist, and as news broke on social media that he was now signed to a major label, many of his fans thought he had “sold out.” Despite the naysayers, Morton makes it clear about his role and journey as an “independent artist.” “There’s a misconception that I was pro-indie and anti-major; there was a point when all I wanted was to have a major deal, but they didn’t ‘get’ the music. I’m finally in a place where I have the creative control I’ve always had with the global impact available to artists on major labels.”
With everything in place, PJ Morton has learned to balance life as a husband, father, globetrotter, and now, Young Money member. The New Orleans native is discovering new challenges on the home front as he has never been gone from his wife Kourtney as much as he has been over the last couple of years. But, he says, she understands the traveling life he leads. She does a great job of holding down the crib, and they make it a point to keep up the Skype-ing and communication when he’s on the road. While there’s nothing easy about pulling double duty with M5 and YM, it’s definitely worthwhile to belong to the polar-opposite, chart-topping teams. Morton gets to be a part of rubbing out previously existing racial barriers, being a bridge between those two different worlds. Just being a part of M5 allows PJ to reach out through music that crosses color boundaries. Even with his personal fans, he notes, “they’re open to all kinds of music – because I’ve experimented with different types of music. A lot of the lines we’ve created have gotten blurred over the years, where the color lines of music and who listens to what isn’t as clear-cut as it was before.” So what can we expect from his new record? More of the same. And by “more of the same,” I mean more features and the same ever-changing sound his fans have come to expect.—Arian Thigpen
GRAMMY U STUDENT:
Satarra Troutman
Destined
To Win
By: ALISHA L. GORDON
Satarra Troutman, a 17-year-old musical phenom and distant relative of The Zapp Band’s Roger Troutman, has mastered more instruments and vocal skills than most artists do in a lifetime. Proficient in the electric bass, upright bass, clarinet, piano, and bassoon, the North Atlanta High School senior caught the eye of the folks at the GRAMMY’s at the 2011 GRAMMY Camp held in Los Angeles, with her group’s stirring rendition of the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” Satarra’s journey to GRAMMY Camp wasn’t an easy one; while on a school trip to Ecuador, Satarra missed the deadline to apply for the camp. “I was devastated – there was nothing I could do about it because I was out of the country. But when I returned, I got a notice that the camp still had open spaces for bass players.” After a few phone calls, applications, and the rallied support of friends and family, Satarra was off to L.A. to make her mark on the music world. “We spent most of the week in workshops learning about the business side of music and working with our groups to develop our sound. It was amazing working with so many talented students from across the country.”
In Atlanta, Satarra is known as the triple threat among her friends; the beauty, the voice, the true talent has taken her from the Midwest flow of her birthplace in Ohio to Atlanta. “Atlanta is a big city but small – everyone knows everyone. At GRAMMY Camp, it was like every ‘big fish’ from every city converged in one place. The energy was indescribable.” You can hear the musical influences throughout her music and voice; from Coltrane to Metallica, Satarra infuses all kinds of elements with the small jazz trio she’s rehearsing with to record her first EP. “Spending time in Ecuador shaped the rhythms and sounds in my music – including those Latin rhythms with everything makes playing with the band and writing music worthwhile.” Satarra has hopes to attend Berklee College of Music or The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music after graduation and to pursue a degree in song writing and business. While she may have a few years before she’ll win her first Grammy, she’s on the right track to bright lights, short speeches, and a mantle full of musical accolades. G
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T LC
Celebrating 20 Years
TLC fans everywhere took to social media in December with excitement after Rozonda, “Chilli” Thomas and her publicist confirmed that in fact there would be a biopic made about the four time GRAMMY Award winning trio to air late in 2012 on VH-1. The announcement couldn’t come at a better time as the group, which was once dubbed Billboard magazine’s greatest musical trio, is approaching the 20 year anniversary of its first album release. Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip dropped on February 25,1992, and Chilli didn’t mind sitting down with me to chat about 20 Years of TLC the Crazy, the Sexy and the Cool! 26 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
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crazy
The worst kind of loneliness is being with the wrong person.
Photography Credit: Derek Blanks 28 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
As TLC reached super stardom after the release of their 1994 album Crazy, Sexy, Cool, their personal lives ironically started to closely emulate the title of their second album. Although the group sold over 22 million albums worldwide, fans watched as the ladies struggled through their fair share of legal issues, spats with each other and record label strife, ultimately filing for Chapter 11 a year later. Despite challenges that Chilli says come along with being an all-girl group, they’ve seemed to live somewhat of a transparent life, sharing with fans their mistakes in love, finances, and business. Although we may think we know everything there is to know about TLC, Chilli hinted at the fact that there is so much more that we don’t know that will be exposed in their new biopic. “I’m a really private person and it makes me feel yucky when the media tells a story without facts. This biopic will set the record straight on a lot of information that people think they know, but have no idea.” With the rise and fall of so many popular girl groups, many wonder what has kept TLC relevant for over two decades and what is keeping them in demand in the entertainment industry as they prove they still “got it.” The group performed during this past season’s finale of American Idol and toured last year in Japan. “Our music is timeless. We have fans that have grown with us. Now they have kids and have introduced our music to their children, so it keeps on going. We are blessed to have great music.” Chilli says the group is still defining what their legacy will be but she believes people will remember them as being original and giving women the feeling of girl power. Coupled with the 20 year anniversary of TLC, the group will also have to bear the 10 year anniversary of the untimely death of group mate Lisa “LeftEye” Lopes, soon approaching on April 25th. Perhaps she’s a new star born, which was the title of a song her solo album Supernova. During an MTV interview she proclaims, “...there is no such thing as death. We can call it transforming for a lack of better words. ...We all share the same space.” Lisa was such a free spirit and Chilli took a moment to think about her sister, as she called her. “There are so many things I miss about Left-Eye that it would be hard to narrow it down one. Many of Left-Eye’s last words to me I like to keep
sacred, so that I’m able to hold on to those memories. However, I always laugh about how Lisa grabbed that condom and safety pin and told us to wear it. Who knew that it would ultimately become what branded us as a group, promoting safe sex? We are sisters...more sisters than best friends and it can’t get any better than that.”
sexy
As TLC works to dispel some of the rumors that circulate mainly through the media about their love and life challenges, Chilli wanted to set the record straight on her love life. “I’m not lonely, by any means. I get so many people tweeting me saying ‘that’s why you’re ”. So does all this mean Chilli is in love? Does she have a Valentine? “No, I’m not in love, I don’t even like anybody...I have a few celebrity crushes, but that’s it!” Although careful about the names she mentioned, she wasn’t shy about dishing on a couple of her crushes. From The Fast and the Furious actor Paul Walker to James Marsden who’s know for his character Cyclops in the first three X-Men films. Chilli adds these men are just a measure of what her physical type looks like. Domestic, normal and boring aren’t adjectives you would likely attach to Chilli. She says those qualities are what most men look for, just not in her. “Men expect me to be a bitch and I’m not like that, and I think they are surprised.” Boring? Chilli’s love life seems anything but boring as the list of men she’s been attached to are some of entertainment’s most successful and attractive men. She seems to have it all, so why is it so difficult for her to find a man? 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 29
A relationship expert can’t even help her find the man of her dreams. “We all have to compromise on some things, but I’m not going to compromise on big things. I’m a great listener and I hear some of the things these guys say and I immediately know if I can deal with what they are bringing to the table. Women have a hard time thinking maybe he’ll change and I believe [them] the first time when they tell me.” Chilli immediately dismissed the claim that her lack of finding a man stems from her non-existent relationship with her father whom she met for the first time in the mid 90‘s on the Sally Jesse Raphael Show. “I know so many females who had both parents and could not find good relationships. It’s great to have examples around you to help shape and mold, but you are who you are.” Chilli credits her mom and big momma for doing a great job of raising her and being strong examples in her life. “Even if I had a mom who had a lot of guys around, that doesn’t mean I would do the same. My father being around or not doesn’t have anything to do with my relationships.” 30 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
As Chilli prepares for travel to meet Tionne “TBoz” Watkins in L.A., her new home since recently filing for bankruptcy in Atlanta, they have the task of fulfilling their producer duties on their new biopic. Chilli says she wants all fresh faces in the movie. “ As long as they can sing, act and dance, they don’t have to look just like us but they should have enough resemblance to make it believable.” A self-proclaimed nurturer, Chilli says her greatest passion is being a mother. “I’ve always had dreams of being a mother and have been a nurturer since I was 10.” As she works to continue to stay relevant in the industry she says that singing and dancing is #1 but she loves acting and hopes to do voice-overs at some point in her career. “I love being an entertainer.” Despite trials and tribulations, Chilli and TBoz aren’t showing any evidence that they are slowing down, perhaps this is just the next chapter.
SPOTLIGHT
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Chilli professes she has insecurities just like everybody else. “I get insecure about my body at times. I have a really high metabolism and I can get small and I don’t like it. I like to be referred to as petite. If my weight is at 114, I’m happy. But when I drop below my ideal weight I get frustrated.” If you’re not sure what Chilli really wants, she makes it clear that she definitely wants to be happy, but she makes no apologies for waiting for what she wants. “The worst kind of loneliness is being with the wrong person.”
T HE A-LIST BY: NEKESSA SMITH
TALENT SCOUT
If I had to condense what Natarsha Garcia does into one title it would definitely be “Tastemaker.” When I asked her to tell me precisely what she does, her exact words were, “I break a little piece of myself imparting it to thousands of people as opposed to keeping it for myself.” Garcia is a mother, a wife and a remarkable teacher. Performing and singing since she was around 5 years old, her voice was introduced as a sound that would soar into a full career. After a couple of years performing nationally and internationally, Natarsha opted for a more stable career in insurance which she made her full time focus. She still maintained singing appearances on the side to nurture her passion. When walking into the doors of AGI, the walls are full of headshots and comp cards of the school’s diverse spectrum of talent. Students eagerly anticipate their training with Natarsha and her talented staff with hopes of being booked to the unlimited acting opportunities in LA, New York and now Atlanta. There is an air of
professionalism, discipline and motivation from these actors, singers and dancers, ages 7 and up. The past 11 years have seen an upward surge in the range of booking opportunities thanks to Natarsha Garcia and how AGI’s name resonates in the industry as the A-List performing arts school. She has worked with everyone from Justin Bieber to Cedric the Entertainer. Her son Brandin J. has been featured in Dirty Laundry, Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, and Meet the Browns. He is currently working on many projects including a play, Just Trying to Make It, a webisode, and a Disney film with Tyler James Williams of Everybody Hates Chris. Natarsha, or AGI, has successfully launched many careers such as Ciara Wilson (Meet the Browns), Jasmine Cook (remake of Footloose), Janesha Cambridge (House of Payne) and Catie Evans (The 700 Club). That is not to mention the multitude of commercials and print media in which she contributed to her students’ booking. Her new project is a reality show currently entitled The AGI Project, which will showcase the day-to-day grind of talent building, casting calls, and endless other behind-the-scenes aspects of the industry. Natarsha Garcia of Anointed Gifts International School of Performing Arts is a trailblazer and a definite Tastemaker of Atlanta to make note of. Her goal is to continue to make many talented actors’ dreams come true as Hollywood makes its home in Atlanta looking for the next bright, budding star.
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Inspirational LOVE ST ORIES.. We asked our readers to send in their most inspirational love stories, and we were overwhelmed with joy while reading each entry. The toughest job was to only choose 5 stories to share with our readers. Each story represented an amazing amount of strength, courage, perseverance and above all...love. Meet our 5 couples >>
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2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 33
Cornelius & Heather Lindsey In 2004, I asked God for a man that wouldn’t kiss me until our wedding day. I honestly never thought that any person would actually have those standards, but for me— it meant that he had enough discipline and self-control that would one-day sustain a lifetime of marriage. Not only that, that the man valued me and recognized that he didn’t pay the price for me—Christ did. My husband and I attended the same church and met in passing. On our very first conversation—we KNEW that finally—after all of these years, we finally met the “one.” I was 26 and he was 22. Our first date took place on January 8th 2009 and after we finished eating at a upper east side vegan restaurant in New York—He looked at me and said.. “I was trying to figure out how I was going to end this date and I was going to kiss you but then the Lord told me that I haven’t paid the price for you yet and to wait to kiss you until our wedding day.”— I’m thinking WOW! This is what I’ve wanted!! But I had a couple boyfriends between the 2004 and 2008 time period that also said they would do the same thing and it 34 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
sure didn’t turn out that way! So what happen next? We set up boundaries—No staying the night together, no cuddling, no late night movies, no “foreplay”, no rubbing, no touching, NOTHING! (Which was SO hard for me because I’m a big “touchy” person!). My husband proposed to me 11 months later on Christmas Day 2009 and after a long 8 months we finally wed and kissed on our wedding day. Was it worth it? Of COURSE! We got a chance to develop emotionally and REALLY get to know each other— we weren’t clouded by sex or anything physical—we learned how to communicate and deal with issues. Since then, we have been traveling to conferences, churches, and doing workshops and sharing our story. We both weren’t virgins OR perfect in any right. We just wanted to honor God with our relationship and show others that it can be done and it’s WORTH the wait to wait for the right person.
Kimberly & Rasheen Jones September 19, 2007, I was visiting my godbrother in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I had never driven to the eastside of town by myself before, but on this particular day, I decided to go. When I arrived at my god-brother’s house, he told he needed a ride to take something to a friend - I happily obliged. When we arrived at his friend’s house, his friend, Rasheen Jones, was standing outside waiting for him. When I saw him, I commented to my god-brother about how handsome I thought he was. He dared me to say something to him. I said to my now husband “I don’t normally say anything to guys, but you are so cute.” He replied, “You are too. Can I have your number?” He called me that night and asked me out. We went out that same night and have been inseparable ever since. This was the day, that I, Kimberly Jones, met my soul mate. On one fateful day, February 12, 2008, I received the most dreaded phone call of my life. My husband and my brother-in-law had been shot in our home in a home invasion. My husband was shot in the back and he was rendered paraplegic. We had only been dating 5 months, but I knew after two weeks of dating that he was the man that God created for me, flaws and all. When we were told by the surgeons at Grady Hospital
that my husband and my brother-in-law were going to pull through, I went to my husband’s bedside with his pastor, Rev. Steven Dial, Sr. and my husband’s mother and sister. I told him when he opened his eyes; that I would not leave this hospital until he was able to leave with me-and I didn’t. After 30 days at Grady Hospital, my husband was admitted to the Shepherd Spinal Center. While there my husband and I learned how to live and maneuver through life with his disability. I also saw my husband exhibit a strength that I never knew existed. He would be first to the gym every day-determined to walk again. He would look at me and say “I have to learn how to walk again, baby, so that I can walk by you and stand up with you when we get married.” Well I am happy to say that on September 4, 2010, he did just that. We got married on this special day and Rev. Steven Dial, Sr., our pastor, conducted our beautiful ceremony. My husband is blessed to be able to walk again with the use of a walker and he has been on his feet more than in his wheelchair for the past 6 months. The love that we have for each other has endured so much. We truly know what it means to love each other unconditionally; like Christ loves us. My husband is motivating and inspirational to me every day and we couldn’t imagine growing old with anyone else. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 35
Michael & Marcia Anthony
Our first initial introduction to each other was in a hospital waiting area. On January 23, 2000 I went to visit a friend of mine who’s Father was in intensive care. Not knowing, earlier that morning the family was called in to make a decision whether to take my friends Father off of life support. When I got to the hospital I saw my friend’s mother and began to talk with her. There was this guy sitting over from us by himself and he heard us talking and asked if I was one of his nieces. Well I thought to myself what is wrong with him; he should see that I am not his niece. Eventually my friend came into the room where we were and I asked her what was wrong with her uncle and she said he was blind. I was so shocked because he did not appear to be visually impaired. She introduced me to her uncle and nothing else was said between the uncle and me. My friend asked if I would pray for her Father and I said sure. My friend and I, her mother and a cousin went into the room where her Father was and I begin to pray for her dad as the Holy Spirit led me to. I was told that a man whom the doctor’s had given up that approximately an hour after prayer was moved into a regular room and also lived 10 years more.
36 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
The blind guy, after hearing that the young lady that came to the hospital that day, prayed for his brother and the miracle that God did; he wanted to talk to that lady. Well after weeks of communicating on the phone; he asked me out for a date. We went out on a date and began dating, got engaged 5 months later, married 4 months after being engaged and have been married now for 11 years. Michael has never seen me but he says that if my outer beauty is anything like what he perceives from my inner beauty, then I am something to behold. I must say that in the beginning I did not see myself marrying this guy because of his physical blindness. I knew that there would be a great responsibility and this was not something I wanted to undertake. But God has a way of doing things that we don’t understand and comprehend. I must say though that he is one of the most kind, loving, generous and most of all he is a Man of God. Truly Michael is my Boaz and I have not regretted a day since we’ve been married. We have grown together and God has made something beautiful out of our union of love.
Richard & Tiffany Neely
I was only three years old when my mother lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of twenty-seven; my Dad was thee angel that stood by her side until she past. God sent an angel to me when I meet Richard A. Neely for the first time in High School. Neither one of us knew that only a few years after high school we would cross paths, and be inseparable. I know the reason God kept him around was because he knew we were ‘’soul mates’’ and Richard and I vowed August 2005 before God, family and friends we would be there for one another in “. . . sickness and health . . . til death do us part.” Sickness came sooner than we both anticipated. From one mammogram appointment to the next, Richard was with me and when I was diagnosed January 2011 he reminded me he is my umbrella through any storm. Its devastating hearing you have breast cancer at 34yrs young. My self esteem had plummeted, I did not feel pretty and most days just wanted to throw a pity party. It has been an emotional journey for the both of us as well as the family, but with God the impossible is made possible.
My husband has been a beacon of strength; thru all the doctor’s visits, chemotherapy, radiation, reconstruction and pending operations for preventive medicine he stands by my side. He has surely been the anchor that has kept me stable when my world could have been shaken upside down. His loyalty has encouraged me and been my motivation to face this cancer instead of fear it. He has helped me to put into perspective what living is all about. Some marriages crumble during the storm, but together we have managed to persevere and our love is stronger than yesterday. I dedicate this letter to him and every dawn of every day I face I will love and cherish, respect and honor him until death separates us. Fairy tales are not just meant to be bed time stories they can be a reality. Richard’s selfless dedication to me and our family is true love; he inspires me as I hope our story inspires you.
2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 37
Earlier this evening, a girlfriend and I were having a conversation about The List - the “Ideal Man” list. Some lists are about as long as an unopened pack of toilet paper. More times than not, the creator of the list doesn’t match the list from A-Z even though she is adamant that she won't accept anything less.
Byron Bright & Mary Merritt Many who have heard my story say to me, "wow, you were so lucky to have experienced such true love." To me, it was my life, my love. See, I was in love with my best friend, and I lost him on 9/7/11 to Stage 4 Lymphoma. Byron and I met in high school in 1986, but we never dated back then. I was a freshman and he was a senior so it was almost unheard of at that school, Alfred Ely Beach high. When I first saw him, his eyes caught my attention for they were the prettiest eyes I had ever seen on a man. We would wave, but never a serious chat. Fast forward 23 years, and into the Social Network world. I received a FaceBook request from none other than Mr. bright Eyes himself. We chatted, reminisced and then decided to meet in our hometown for dinner. Well let's just say one dinner, led to another, then lunches, then walks on the beach. Then one day after several dates, I received a FB inbox message, and it said, "Will you be my girlfriend? Check Yes or No...." about 3 months into our rekindled friendship, Byron shared with me that he had been diagnosed with CLL, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, but he was in remission. He said to me, “It’s ok, I know you will probably leave because that is why my ex left me. 38 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
My reply, "I will leave only if you or God says so." this was on Nov. 12, 2009. We LIVED life and lived it abundantly, and enjoyed being each other's best friends. We traveled on a cruise, to Hawaii, to Miami's South Beach, St. Augustine, Indianapolis for the Kappa's Conclave and just had great times. We took MANY walks on the beach, sometimes just sitting on the shores, cuddled. I accompanied him to his doctor's appointments and even left a consulting job that was paying me 200K plus to relocate to Georgia for a lower paying job, just to assist him when the Cancer resurfaced. It came back very aggresively, but I was not leaving because I loved this man. “Not another round of chemo alone” is what I told him, and I kept my word. After he insisted we celebrate my 40th birthday early with a trip to Vegas, we returned to GA and Byron was admitted to the hospital the next day, Aug. 16, 2011. Byron slipped into a coma on my REAL birthday, August 25th. We, yes WE, stayed in the hospital 22 days and at 4:32 a.m on 9/7/11, I walked my angel to God, whispering in his ear that I would be ok and just before he took his final breath, a single tear rolled down his face, his eyes fixated on me and wide open. I kissed them shut. His legacy has influenced hundreds to sign up for Be The Match, the Bone Marrow Registry. We continue to walk in his honor.
EXPERT ADVICE
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My girlfriend ran across a “list” she wrote about a year ago and sent me the following email: I burned it – the list and let the ashes go down the kitchen sink. I no longer need that list. I trust that the man for me and I will meet without the need for a list. Right now, he's somewhere happy, healthy, and doing his thing. I'd like you to be my witness for this move beyond arbitrary definition. :-) I loved everything about her email and supported her 100% in her decision to burn her list. A millisecond after our email exchange, I logged on to the Huffington Post and found an article about the importance of writing a list. The writer says, “In most areas of my life, I've played by the rules. But when it comes to dating, I find myself time and time again taking risks with reckless men. More often than not, they are what my friends call 'off the grid guys' -- good-looking, edgy men who never work a 9 to 5, live off charm and swagger, tend to be nomadic, are wildly unpredictable, and are fixtures of the local nightlife scene.” For those of you like the writer, who tend to fall for the wrong guy, a list will definitely keep you in line. Bigger than the list though, you must like yourself enough to say “no” to what’s not good for you no matter how fine he is and you must believe that what you want is out there and attainable. In addition, you must focus on creating your happiness daily by living a fulfilling life.
Here’s a list I’d like you to embrace: My Top 5 Tips for Singles: 1. Be "The One." Many single people are looking for "the one" but are you "the one?" Would you want to be in a relationship with you? Think about it… 2. Be the Chooser. Many of us are chosen to be in relationships only to regret saying yes later. Have the courage to say “No” to the bad guy and hold out for the best man. 3. Go out, have fun and let go of the outcome. Going out expecting to meet “the one” can be very disappointing. Be open to meeting lots of wonderful people instead.
YVONNE CHASE is a Dating & Relationship Coach to Singles & PreCommitted Couples. Sign up for a FREE 30 minute session here!
4. Release the PAUSE button. Don't put your life on hold waiting for a relationship to happen. Be a happy and successful single person living the life you really want now. 5. Use your head and your heart simultaneously. Don't let your heart lead the way solo. Make your relationship choices CONSCIOUSLY. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 39
www.chatkafeonline.com $12.95 This book gives new meaning to act like a lady… Man or woman if you are in the pursuit of happily ever after, this is a must read.
40 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
www.amazon.com $15.95 Physical and mental challenges didn’t stop this man from attaining God’s plan for him. No wonder I loved it. Faith unyielding! Aweinspiring story.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
BOOK NOOK
www.sinsofthymother.com www.amazon.com www.barnesandnoble.com $14.95 You can download this thriller on nook or kindle. She killed Dominique’s father. He loves Dominique to death. A Mother and son wreak havoc on one woman’s life for three decades. When will it end?
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Keisha Kuma earned her B.A. in English Literature from Georgia State University. Her passion for reading and writing began at a very early age. Her mother introduced her to great authors like Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, and Pearl Cleage. In 2010 Keisha lost her mother to cancer, her father to congestive heart failure, and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis after being admitted to the hospital with a possible stroke. She did the only two things she knew how to do. Pray and write. She finished and published her first novel “Sins of Thy Mother” on September 8, 2010 (her birthday) right before she accompanied Oprah and 301 other friends to Australia. Most that hear her story ask how in the world she accomplished anything that year. She answers with the Mary Mary song, “It’s the God in me.” In October of 2011, Keisha was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Her next novel “Sin in the Heir” is scheduled for the fall of 2012. She is also working on a screenplay for “Sins of Thy Mother.” To find out more about Keisha please visit www.sinsofthymother.com or you can find her on twitter @authorkckuma.
“Strawberry Swing” www.kumason.com www.amazon.com Also available on Kindle $19.95 Lifelong secrets buried deep within, tragic pasts and haunting demons, trapped within confines of the heart. This book of short stories takes you in places you’re not sure you want to be.
This strawberry dessert blends the sweetness of strawberries with delicate homemade whipped cream and a brown sugar crumble for texture. Don’t worry the flavor is all there! But you must live by the one and only whipped cream rule: you MUST never buy whipped cream, it has to be freshly made. And with a secret ingredient (maple syrup), it becomes over the top irresistible.
INGREDIENTS Strawberry Compote Ingredients: Strawberries- ½ pint of Sugar- 2 tablespoons Whipped Cream Ingredients: Heavy whipping cream- ½ carton Maple syrup- 1 tablespoon Sugar- 1 tablespoon Crumb Topping Ingredients: Oats- ¼ cup of Brown sugar- ¼ cup of Butter- 1 tablespoon of LET’S COOK 1. Combine ingredients for Strawberry Com-
pote. 2. Pour heavy whipping cream into a bowl. 3. Using a hand mixer, slowly add the sugar and maple syrup to the cream. 4. Whip until soft peaks form (do not over whip or the consistency will become like butter. 5. Set Aside. 6. Make the crumb topping. 7. Place all ingredients into a small bowl and use finger tips to mix together all ingrediants. 8. Place crumbs on a baking sheet and place in the oven on low broil for 3 minutes, or until the crumbs are crispy. 9. Set aside. 10. Make the strawberry compote 11. Add berries to small saute pan and add water. 12. Bring to a low heat, and then add sugar. 13. Allow berries to simmer for 5-7 min 14. Cool.. Serve by layering berries, crumb topping and whipped cream. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 41
TEA Is of the ESSENCE!
By: Andrea Janise | Photography By: Laretta Houston
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2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 43
Bohemian Peach is light-bodied and aromatic made with organic oolong tea with a sweet, delicate peachy flavor ($16.95)
Estate Grey is a classic blend of citrusy bergamot and organic black tea with smooth hints of vanilla ($18.95)
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t’s chilly outside and on cold days like these, there is nothing like a tasty winter warmer to get things started. Skip the hot cocoa or the regular coffee routine and opt for a cup of flavorful hot tea. The duo at Atlanta-based SoRen Tea is making it easy to find a flavorful concoction that you’ll love with the debut of their new SoRen Tea Signature Collection. SoRen Tea is a gourmet selection of luxury loose leaf teas, uniquely blended and made with the finest ingredients. Created by two sisters, Sonnia Shields and Rena Williams, each tea is hand-crafted and based on their extensive travels abroad. The result is a thoughtful blend of premium organic teas, fruits and herbs combined together to create an unforgettable tea drinking experience. The gourmet loose leaf teas come in eight signature flavors, including Bohemian Peach, Estate Grey and Coco Chic. With so many appealing varieties to choose from, grab your favorite mug, take your pick and indulge in the new flavors of the SoRen Tea Collection. Just steep, sip and enjoy!
Creators & Sisters: Sonnia Shields + Rena Williams of Soren Tea
Coco Chic is a fruity blend of South African rooibos herbal tea with a subtle cacao flavor and hints of organic banana and apple ($18.95)
Each tea is packaged in a handsome black tin with a satin trim and gold interior. SoRen Tea tins will look great stacked on your countertop and serve as the perfect gift for both men and women. Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world next to water, and with so many varieties, you are sure to find at least one that you love! Other selections in the SoRen Tea signature collection include: Vanilla Rouge, Cashmere Crème, Citrine Blossom, Posh Noir and Vintage Black. Prices range from $16.95 to $21.95. To order, visit www.sorentea.com. 44 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
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Tybee Island at night is serene and magical, you’ll fall in love all over again!
Coco Palm is beautiful!
ROMANTIC GETAWAYS By: Kirsten N. Fuller
from the Georgia Coast to the French Caribbean
It’s the season of love, and what better way to celebrate than to plan a surprise getaway for you and your sweetheart. If you are looking for a unique, private destinations to celebrate your love, than we have two perfect options just for you. One is a fabulous hideaway just outside of Savannah, Georgia and the other is hidden jewel on an exotic Caribbean island. The historic city of Savannah, Georgia has a fabulous secret. Just 18 miles outside the city is Tybee Island, the perfect location for a romantic beach destination. Tybee Island, Georgia is lovingly known as Savannah’s beach because it is made up of a three mile stretch of uninterrupted beach perfect for romantic midnight strolls with that someone special. Forgo the traditional hotel and reserve a private rental or a romantic bed & breakfast. Tybee Island is home to several eclectic and luxurious lodging accommodations including: the Bluebird Bed & Breakfast, the DeSoto Beach Club, the 17th Street Inn and the Lighthouse Inn Bed & Breakfast, which is known as the romantic beach vacation destination. If you prefer more traditional Southern style hospitality then Oceanfront Cottage Rentals (www.oceanfrontcottage.com) can help you find your home away from home on Tybee Island. 46 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
What’s a romantic getaway without a candle light dinner? Tybee Island does not disappoint with over twenty-five fabulous dining options. The island is a seafood lovers’ paradise. Enjoy “fresh caught wild Georgia shrimp” at popular restaurants like the fun and sophisticated Social House, North Beach Grill, The Crab Shack and Burton’s by the Beach which also features American, Cuban, Mexican and Spanish cuisine in addition to delectable seafood dishes. After a night of dinner and dancing, enjoy a southern style breakfast at the Breakfast Club, a Tybee Island favorite known for serving some of the best breakfast on the island. Complete your romantic getaway with a stroll on the Tybee Island Pier & Pavilion, or take in the island’s unique history with a visit to the Tybee Lighthouse or venture into historic Savannah.
Tybee Island Lighthouse Photo Credit: Chris Hornaday
on the pier say hello to celebrity chef Paula Deen who happens to own a vacation home (which you can rent) on Tybee Island. For more information please visit www.tybeeisland.com.
If you want a romantic vacation on an exotic Caribbean island, then St. Lucia is a fabulous choice. Just one hour from Puerto Rico by air, the island is home to several fabulous couples’ resorts and the award-winning Coco Palm boutique hotel. The hip, sexy and luxurious hotel is a must visit and a true hidden jewel in the Caribbean. The Coco Palm is located in trendy Rodney Bay Village, and is within walking distance of other great restaurants, specialty shops and night clubs, making it the perfect marriage of contemporary island luxury and all the modern amenities today’s world travelers expect. The visionary behind the Coco Palm Resort and Tybee Island is an excellent choice for a private its sister resort, the Coco Kreole, is Caribbean romantic getaway for two. As you are strolling Hotel Magnate and St. Lucia’s Minister of Tour2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 47
Visit North Beach Grill.. Have the Crab Cake!
Food Inspired By Music Take a dip in the Coco Palm pool! ism, Alan Chastanet, who has successful blended all doors that open to the resorts huge walk in pool. the beauty of island living with a French Chateau- All rooms and suites are complete with air-condiboutique style hotel setting. tioning, ceiling fans, cable television, a mini fridge, a personal safe and wireless internet service. On the winding driveway leading up to the resort, you can instantly see its colorful and breathtaking To complete your French Caribbean experience, beauty. The signature bright yellow building with the Coco Palm is also home to the fabulous ‘Coco its red roof top makes you wonder if you are in the Beauty Clinic Spa, where you can enjoy exquisite Caribbean or in an actual French village. The lobby couples’ poolside, rooftop and beach massages. For immediately immerses you into the resorts Carib- a complete island adventure, the Coco Palm has bean/French décor, and just outside the lobby doors, created several packages including the “Explore St. is a huge pool adjacent to the resorts’ unique Carib- Lucia” package. This package includes 4 nights/5 bean bistro, Ti Bananne, where on any given day you days of luxury accommodations in a Garden View can enjoy a delicious lunch while listening to a local suite, daily breakfast at the bistro, dinner and glass steel drum band. At the resort, you can select several of wine for two, rum factory tour, snorkeling day different room types for your vacationing pleasure, trip and a Carnival Catamaran trip and more. If you including my personal favorite, the Swim up Suite. can’t visit in February, then plan to visit in May for The Swim up Suite is a luxury filled suite with French the islands annual Jazz Festival.-The Travelin Diva 48 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
-By: Kirsten Fuller
If you love great music while enjoying a delicious meal, music-themed restaurants are a perfect destination. When you normally think of music-themed restaurants, the Hard Rock Café or House of Blues restaurant chains generally come to mind. Well, there’s another destination making beautiful music in the restaurant world – B.B. King Blues Club & Grill.
“Lucille’s” is a separate restaurant open for dinner and drinks from 11am -1am featuring live music nightly at 8pm. The Blues Club & Grill is also a popular concert venue featuring well known artists such as Joe (performing on 1/8/2012 @ 8pm), Jon B. (performing on 2/20/2012 @ 8pm) and Oleta Adams (performing on April 14th @ 7:30 & 10:30pm). Past performers have included George Clinton, Bootsy Collins Blues legend B.B. King made his mark on the music and Ramsey Lewis. world throughout his career with his famous guitar “Lucille,” before deciding to venture into the restau- The NYC “B.B. King Blues Club & grill is not the only record in this special collection. Mr. King also rant business. His first restaurant opened in New owns another franchise that includes five fabulous York City on W. 42nd street and is aptly titled “B.B. locations spanning Orlando, Florida to Sin City Las King Blues Club & Grill.” Located in the heart of Vegas. “B.B. Kings’ Blues Clubs” are literally five Times Square, this location is famous for its Sun- restaurants and blues clubs that featuring a mix of day Gospel Brunch featuring the fabulous Harlem live music each and every night ranging from salsa, Gospel Choir every Sunday from 12:30-2:30pm. blues, Motown inspired soul. They also showcase The menu features a musical mix of soul food fa- special music (TV) specials like “VH1’s Divas Celvorites like Jonah “Stone” crab claws, Black Angus ebrate Soul.” The five locations are in some of the beef steaks, Memphis-style BBQ, and pit roasted country’s most popular tourist destinations, inchicken. They also feature an exclusive Raw Bar and cluding Orlando, Memphis, Nashville, West Palm an artisanal cheese selection. B.B. King Blues Club Beach and Las Vegas where you can enjoy the party & Grill is also famous for its grill which is named every night at the club located inside the Mirage after Mr. Kings’ famous guitar Lucille. Hotel and Casino. www.bbkingblues.com 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 49
2012 Kia Sportage EX>>
SUVS To Look Out For In 2012 By: Andrea Janise
The turn of every New Year brings new cars with new features and new reasons to trade in your trusty old clunker for a definite head turner. This year, the 2012 models certainly do not disappoint. With just about something for every budget, check out the line-up of compact SUV’s to look out for this year. You never know, you may find yourself taking one out for a test drive!
<< 2012 Honda CR-V EX-L The newly redesigned Honda CR-V is winning back the hearts of those who left the brand for manufacturers offering more features at the same affordable prices. The 2012 version came back with a funkier style and cool amenities. Still maintaining a 185-hp, 2.4-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine, the Honda CR-V drives like a sedan with a lot more headroom. You’ll appreciate it’s sedan like qualities when it comes to gas mileage, getting roughly 26 mpg in the city and highway combined. With tons of cool features including a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines to help you back into parking spaces, heated front seats for those cold mornings and a 328-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with 7 speakers. With the EX-L version, you’ll also get Sirius XM Satellite Radio and access to DVD and Navigation System™ options. For convenience, there are steering wheelmounted controls and a Bluetooth® Hands Free Link® system that connects to your cell phone. Passengers will love the power windows and the dual-zone automatic climate control system allowing them to set their own comfortable temperature. Coming with a MSRP at about $27,045, the 2012 Honda CR-V EX-L is a great choice.
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The 2012 Kia Sportage compact crossover defies every myth you thought about the Kia brand. Coming a long way from where they started, the entire Kia line-up is very impressive, and the Kia Sportage definitely stands out as one of the best buys of the year compared to other models in its class. Its 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine gets you where you need to go, and its sleek exterior and 18-inch alloy wheels will have you looking good while doing it. Giving you every amenity you could want, including a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats (and a cooled driver seat option), fog lights, easy folding rear seats, an upgraded sound system with a USB connection and access to Sirius XM Satellite Radio, a cooled glove box storage compartment and turn signals on the side mirrors. As far as gas mileage, the Kia Sportage gets approximately 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway making it a great road-trip car. You can purchase the Sportage at a base price of $18,500 or fully loaded at $23,900. The EX35 is the ultimate family car. Hip and sophisticated, the EX35 a well-rounded model that looks great at doing just about everything from running errands to dropping the kids off at carpool. But don’t get me wrong, the EX35 is sexy too. It looks like a slightly scaled down version of its big brother, the Infiniti FX luxury SUV crossov2012er. And I mean slightly. It’s the perfect multi-tasking car for a true multi-tasker. Boasting a roaring 3.5 Liter V6 2012 Infiniti EX35 Journey engine and a 7 speed-automatic transmission with the ability to switch into manual mode, its ultra-contoured body turns heads while its responsive handle turns corners with expert like control. The EX35 Journey comes with 18-inch, 8 spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with all-season tires maintaining a smooth ride throughout the changing climate. But the interior is where you have all of the fun with upholstered leather interior and wood-grained maple interior accents, heated front seats and a push button start. On the dash, you have a rearview monitor with a 7-inch color display, along with an impressive amount of audio, navigation and systemmonitoring bells and whistles. Let’s not leave out the people in the back seat; there are rear-seat heating and cooling vents in center console and even roof mounted curtain side impact air bags for front and rear seat head protection. You can get loads of other optional features for an additional $2,200 - $7,500 in upgrades, like Blind Spot Warning (BSW), power-up folding second row seats and an “around view” monitor with a front and rear sonar system. Averaging at $37,900 MSRP, the Infiniti EX35 Journey is definitely one to consider in 2012. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 51
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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top 10 ROMANT IC
DAT E Spots
“SEXY SEAFOOD SCAMPI”
INGREDIENTS
Deveined uncooked shrimp- 1 lb Red Wine- 1/4 Clove of garlic- 1 Olive Oil- 1/4 Basil- 1/2 bushel 1 tip of a red chili salt and pepper
Let’s Cook
for
VALENTINE’S DAY
1. In a large saute pan, heat olive oil over low heat. 2. Add garlic and chili tip, then finely cut and add the basil.
By: Ruksana Hussain
3. Turn the heat down slightly and add red wine (consider Cabernet Sauvignon *never use cooking wine, use wine that is good enough to serve) 4. Serve on top of a bed of linguine pasta or vegetables.
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This year Cupid’s arrow strikes on a weekday, but that shouldn’t be a problem at all, we’ll just celebrate through the week! Speaking the language of the heart really cannot be curtailed to a day anyway right? Check out our lineup of the top 10 romantic date spots in and around the city that are sure to make your Valentine’s Day celebrations memorable.
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Looking for a fun and unique experience to celebrate your special day? If that sounds like you, then treat your sweetie like VIP at The Next Cool Event (www. thenextcoolevent.com). Hosted February 17th-18th, 2012 at Atlanta Expo Center North, it features a Red Carpet Cocktail evening including film installations and live music, while the VIP gala includes an evening of art and cuisine with movers and shakers.
2. For a local affair, look no further than The High Museum (www.high.org) right in the heart of the city. They have a Valentine’s Day event which includes champagne, food, music, dancing and access to the latest exhibit, Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters. Afterwards, walk to neighboring restaurant Table 1280 for dinner and drinks!
Surprisingly, Atlanta offers wide open spaces right in the middle of its concrete jungles. For nature-lovers, the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s (www.atlantabotanicalgarden. org) Valentine’s in the Garden event is a great way to spend a romantic day. It features dancing, drinking, desserts and live entertainment amidst the orchids and candlelight. 5. And there is romance in adventure too. Does zip-lining across miles of lush greenery professing your love at the top of your lungs do it? Providing you with that opportunity is North Georgia Canopy Tours (www.northgeorgiacanopytours.com), the ultimate zip-line, tree-top adventure where you can enjoy the thrills of zip-lining or take a romantic walk along their beautiful nature trails and sky bridge. 6.
3. Couldn’t care for all that brouhaha? Historic Barnsley Gardens Resort (www. barnsleyresort.com) could be your much needed trip. Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the enchanting manor and estate offers everything you could want in a luxury destination. From fishing and horseback riding to bird hunting and golf, Barnsley Gardens Resort will entice the true romantic in you.
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54 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
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It’s that time of year again. Time to start planning for that special day with your sweetie – Valentine’s Day! The one day when it’s perfectly acceptable to go overboard in expressing your love to your better half.
1.
DATE NIGHT
Cool Ideas for You and Your Valentine
For the foodie in your life, Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails (www.miltonscuisine.com) located in Crabapple’s historic district in North Fulton, could be the perfect dinner destination. It is a quaint restaurant situated in a well-preserved farmhouse with a lively bar, patio and a real fireplace. Still a well-kept secret, private dinner here with your sweetheart might just be the answer.
7. Dance, dance, dance! Spice things up a bit and enroll in a sexy salsa class together. Daza Dance (www.dazadanceatlanta.com) is a great place for salsa lessons for you and your Valentine. There is a location in Buckhead and in Johns Creek, catering to folks who live on either side of the perimeter. Follow up your night with a tapas-style dinner and a glass of sangria to make it a complete experience. 2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 55
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PRESS PASS
MORE V-DAY HOT SPOTS
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If you prefer to play it low key, visit the Starlight Six Drive-in Theatre (www.starlightdrivein.com). Watch movies from the comfort of your car while you sip on wine and nibble hors d’oeuvres -- yes, you can bring your own food to the drive-in! And the best part, at $7.00 entry per person, you can actually stay on for the next movie showing on the same screen.
Captain Planet Gala Georgia Aquarium CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE PRESS PASS Photos
9. Take relaxation to another level at the Spa at Chateau Elan (www.chateauelan.com). Located right outside of Atlanta, the Spa at Chateau Elan features a lavish couples massages and spa treatments in side-by-side beds accompanied by a deep-soak Jacuzzi tub for two. The extent and quality of service at this European style retreat will certainly give you and your special someone a taste for the finer things in life.
10. If a quick getaway is on your list, a trip to Jekyll, Tybee or St. Simon’s Island is well recommended! Just a short drive from Atlanta, all three islands provide a lovely sea front atmosphere with vacation rentals available for a memorable Valentine’s week celebration.
56 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012
2012 :: January/February | Atlanta Tastemaker 57
58 Atlanta Tastemaker | January/February :: 2012